James B. Fry to Captain Bacon, December 29, 1861

CAPTAIN:

I regret to inform you that on yesterday, as a command of from a reconnaissance, they were pursued and surprised by some rebel cavalry at Sacramento. The men made but little resistance, and I am afraid that the gallantry of the officers has eost us the services of several of them. I have not learned that any officer was killed, but when the men fled they fought themselves. Captains Bacon and Davis and Lieutenant Jouett are missing. ` Major Murray has just reported that with instructions to gather up stragglers and the wounded, if there were any. I also instructed him that if the enemy were still in the vicinity to beat them up, but not to venture far in pursuit.

Jackson left about 10 o’clock last night. It is now about 10 a. m., and I have not heard from him. The rebels have no doubt rapidly . retired, and Jackson is probably hunting his men. I shall ride out in a few minutes with an escort, and will write particulars as I can get them in an official report.

I have written this that you may not be deceived by any exaggerated report, which will doubtless reach you.

Very respectfully, T. L. CRITTENDEN,