Unknown to Don Carlos Buell, February 18, 1862

February 18, 1862.

SIR: In a dispatch of the 14th instant I acquainted you with the fact that our cavalry pickets had been attacked by theeavalry of the enemy and that an attack on this place was probable.

During the night following the engagement between the pickets there fell a deep snow, which, follow ed by constant rains up to this time, has placed the roads and streams between us and the enemy in such condition that an immediate attack is improbable. Several days of fair weather must elapse before the enemy, distant about a day’s Ina would attempt to reach us.

By a dispatch from Colonel Vance, commanding at Knoxville, I lest that three regiments are on their way to re-enforce us. If these regiments reach us in time the place is safe against any force that can be brought over the roads in our front. Indeed, it is not probable that thus re-enforced we will be attacked at all. If not re-enforced, an attack is highly probable.

I would respectfully suggest that the whole East Tennessee border is much exposed and several important gaps wholly undefended, through any one of whieh it would not be difficult for the enemy to throw a force.

Respeetfully, JAMES E. RAINS, Colonel, Commanding Post. General S. COOPER.

FEBRUARY 14-15, 1862.—Evacuation of Bowling Green, Ky., by the Confederates and its occupation by the Union forces.

No. 1.—General A. Sidney Johnston, C. S. Army, commanding Western Department. No. 2.—Brig. Gen. O. M. Mitchel, U. S. Army.

Report of General A. Sidney Johnston, C. S. Army, commanding Western Department.