Jas. B. Mopherson to J. B. Mopherson, January 1, 1862

ser 20, 1862.

Decem ser 20, 1862. Brigadier-General DENVER, Commanding First Division :

GENERAL: I am apprehensive that the cavalry dash into Holly Springs has been a pretty serious affair for us, though I have not heard anything definite as yet. I have not learned what route the rebels took after leaving Holly Springs, or in fact whether they have left that place, though quite a large forcé has been sent that way. I think you had better destroy the bridge (McFarland’s) about 5 miles to the west of your position, as we may thus succeed in cutting off the rebels’ retreat if they should attempt to return by a route to the west of us. Do not send out any forage trains to the west or northwest until we know what route the enemy has taken. Keep scouts well out to the right and rear of your position as well as in front. We must not allow ourselves to be caught napping.

Call a board of survey on Major Prophet’s cotton, to examine and report upon all the facts in the case which can be brought to bear, and will constitute a claim to be settled after the war.

The cotton marked “C. 8S. A.” which you have seized upon you can send to Oxford or the Yockna Station, whichever point you send your wagons to first.

An order will be sent to your command putting your troops on threequarter rations. I shall do thesame for the whole of my command, until we ascertain the extent of the damage.

As soon as I know what direction the rebels have gone I will] notify

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAS. B. MoPHERSON,

Major-General.

OXFORD, MIss., December 20, 1862.

Commanding Right Wing:

Fall back with your entire command to the north side of the Tallahatchie, the troops retiring by the same route they advanced on.

I will instruct the cavalry to advance toward Grenada to keep up the

idea of an advance as much as possible. Keep your transportation as