Unknown to George H. Thomas, December 9, 1861

General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

DEAR SIR: I learn from Judge Green, of Russell, a most reliable citizen and truly loyal, that the rebels under Generals Zollicoffer and Cullom, after crossing the Cumberland, have sent part of their forces on this side the river, in direction of this place. He believes it is the purpose of the enemy to move on this point. I hardly think they will venture by the Somerset and Columbia road to this place. I have thrown out seouts on that road and to two other points on the Cumberland.

General Cullom—Bill Cullom—former Clerk of Congress—joined Zollicoffer last Tuesday or Wednesday with 4,000 men. This is reliable; I have it unmistakably. Mr. Rufus Ingram, brother-in-law of Cullom, informs me of the certainty of it. He says they have 11,000 men, pretty well armed, with eight or twelve guns. Zollicoffer has united with his forces those of General Cullom and Colonel Stanton.

You cannot drive him back with less than 10,000 troops. If you do not prepare to do this, the enemy will be in the ‘center of the State.

Respectfully, J. T. BOYLE.