George P. Ihrie to and Aide-de-Oamp, U. 8. Army, November 7, 1862
La Grange, Tenn., November 7, 1862.
Sir: I am directed by Major-General Grant to communicate to you the following:
To-morrow (the 8th instant) you will make a reconnaissance in force with one division in the direction of Holly Springs, with two days’ rations in haversacks, taking the westerly roads.
General Hamilton with similar force will co-operate with you, taking the easterly roads, and join you on the main road to Holly Springs, about 10 miles from this place.
You will particularly note the topography of the country, and send a copy of map to these headquarters.
The cavalry of your division will report to Colonel Lee, Seventh Kansas Cavalry, at Davis’ Mill, to-morrow at 10 a. m., and the cavalry portion will push as near Holly Springs as possible to ascertain the force, position, and movements of the enemy, as also the location of roads and water.
It is not necessary you should accompany the reconnaissance in person; exercise your own discretion in the matter.
Should you be satisfied Holly Springs is evacuated, and it can be ocbe without an engagement, take it and send back couriers for supplies.
You will caution commanders of regiments against acts of vandalism, &c., against straggling, and hold officers to a strict accountability for violation of instructions or neglect of duty.
very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Colonel and Aide-de-Oamp, U. 8. Army.
HpqQrs. RIGHT WING, ARMY OF 1HE TENNESSEE,
La Grange, Tenn., November 7, 1862.
Brigadier-General LAUMAN,
Commanding Fourth Division :
GENERAL: You will hold your division in readiness to move to-morrow morning at 8 a. m. in the direction of Holly Springs on a reconnaissance in force, with the exception of two regiments of General