Thomas L. Crittenden to James B. Fry, January 3, 1862

CAPTAIN:

I now inclose you the report of Major Murray of the affair at Sacramento.* You will see from Major Murray’s report that the entire command behaved handsomely. Although attacked suddenly, and almost surprised, our men charged and drove back the rebels, and that, when the rebels rallied and were re-enforced, still fought and maintained themselves in a hand-to-hand conflict, until some one unknown called out “Retreat to Sacramento!” As it was, the casualties of the enemy were equal to ours, We have, however, to mourn the loss of 8 gallant soldiers, and 3 officers of uncommon bravery and soldierly qualities, Capt. A. G. Bacon killed, Capt. A. N. Davis captured, and Lieut. John L. Waiters missing.

It is very gratifying to call your attention, general, to Major Murray’s report of the conduct of all the officers under his command, every one of them perhaps under fire for the first time, and yet every one behaving handsomely. x

I will close this letter, and only add that, by the testimony of all, Major Murray’s conduct in the field deserves the highest praise.

with great respect, your obedient servant,