Letter

Unknown, October 30, 1861

HEADQUARTERS CAMP ALCORN,

SIR:

I am instructed by Brig. Gen. Lloyd Tilghman to say that the enemy are assembling in considerable force upon Green River, and that he has certain and reliable information that Madisonville and a point higher up are the points upon which they intend to advance. Since his hurried letter by Major Hewett concerning the condition of the troops here, he has had reports from the different parts of his command, Showing that his estimate of its inefficiency was entirely correct. There

is no artillery which ean be used, and re-enforcements of both infantry

E é and cavalry are needed atonce. Whilst not alarmed, the general deems

haie d oed ae

it his duty to lay these faets before General Johnston, and urge their

importanee upon him. 2 : y ;

A spy has þeen arrested to-day with papers upon him, showing that he was not only playing that part, but also that of an enlisting officer. A court of inquiry has been ordered, which will proceed regularly, but expeditiously, to examine the matter.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

POWHATAN ELLIS, JR.,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
P. S.—General Tilghman is too unwell to write himself, Since I
have commenced my letter further information has been received to
show that the first was'entirely correct.
Editor's Notes
From: Operations in South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, 1861. Location: Hopkinsville, Ky..
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 View original source ↗