S. P. Carter to General, November 25, 1861

(Received November 29, 1861. ? Commanding, &e., Danville, KEy.: GENERAL: Yours of the 23d instan inclosing orders from department headquarters for me to remain at “London, has been received. The sick of First and Second East Tennessee Regiments have been sent on and will probably reach Crab Orchard to-day. As there are good hospital accommodations there, I have directed that they be kept at that place for the present. Ihave sent to recall the commissary stores. which had been forwarded. The order to remain was received with general satisfaction. The rebel force at Cumberland Gap is, from the best information I can obtain, so small, that I think we will meet with but little opposition in case it is determined to advance by that pass. Our desires are to get to East Tennessee as soon as possible, in order that our loyal friends there may be relieved. Many of them have been lying out in the woods to escape their enemies, but as the season advances they, will be driven to their houses, and be forced into the rebel ranks or carried to prison. Let us up and help them now, when it will require so little to accomplish this desirable and necessary end. Will you have the kindness to send the paymaster forward? We have been looking for him for some days, and need funds vevy much. Do not let him delay a single day. The greatest part of our lost men have returned. We need arms; if it be possible, send them to us. lam, general, respectfully and truly, yours,

S. P. CARTER,