Jas. B. Mcpherson to James B. McPherson, November 9, 1862

La Grange, Tenn., November 9, 1862.

Major-General MCPHERSON :

I have sent word to Hamilton to send out for Quinby, and direct him to you. If the enemy is found in strong force at Coldwater, return, sending Colonel Lee, with the cavalry from Hamilton’s column, to hunt Quinby up and direct his return.

U. 8S. GRANT, Major-General.

LAMAR, November 9, 1862—1 p. m. Major-General GRANT, Commanding :

We have discovered the enemy drawn up in line of battle, 10,000 strong, on a hill across Coldwater, under Pemberton; 10,000 are under Price, a short distance below Holly Springs, and 13,000 at Abbeville. If our whole army was here we could go to Holly Springs, probably, without much of a fight. As it is, they are disposed to dispute our farther advance. I have made arrangements to fall back and will be in La Grange to-night.

General Quinby came up about 9.30 a. m., having camped at Davis’ Mill last night. Colonel Lee, of the cavalry, is a trump and no mistake. He hassome more prisoners; altogether I think the number will amount to 150. Iam going forward to see Colonel Lee, and will give you more detailed information when I come in.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Major-General.