Joseph Hooker to Colonel Paxton, January 29, 1863

Colonel Paxton is directed to send one or two companies of cavalry on the road leading south from Cannelton. There are rumors of an approach of the enemy from Tazewell. Their force is said to be cavalry and light artillery, under [Henry] Heth. This reconnaissance must be made with all speed, and with special reference to the selection of points where an enemy could be most successfully opposed by inferior force. No time must be lost. It is reported that the enemy intends to strike the river near Mr. Ayers’ works, at Cannelton. You will readily understand the route by which they would approach. ; ‘ E. P. SCAMMON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Brigadier-General Scammon, Charleston : – The possibility of a move of the nature you speak of has made me incline to the opinion that a force small as yours can be best used against one greatly superior by holding Gauley instead of Fayette; but this, of course, implies that the crests around that post are held with tenacity, as Suggested in my former communication on that subject.

JOSEPH HOOKER,