S. P. Carter to George H. Thomas, U. S. A, November 19, 1861

Brig. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS, U. S. A., Commanding, Éc., Crab Orchard:

GENERAL: I have just received information that the rebels, 5,000 strong, were last night at Flat Lick, 8 miles above Barboursville and ing eertain information of the enemy’s approach, if possible move in the direetion of Somerset.

From our very limited means of transportation I shall probably have to destroy nearly the whole of our rations, as I shall not be able to move more than our camp equipage.

440. OPERATIONS IN K. Y., TENN., N. ALA., AND S. W. V. A. (Cmar. XYI

Were I sure of your being still at Crab Orchard I should of course fall back on Rock Castle, notwithstanding the almost impassable state of the roads; but as 1 have been told you had left the Crab Orchard, I must take your advice and retire to Somerset. b

I need not say, general, how much I regret the necessity of this move, but I can see no help for “it, as this place, without artillery and with so small a force, is altogether inde! ensible. I have sent out to press all the wagons that can be obtained; but as most of them were taken by General Schoepf’s troops, I fear I can obtain but few, if any.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,