Unknown to James B. McPherson, October 16, 1862

Jackson, October 16, 1862.

Maj. Gen. J. B. MOPHERSON, Commanding Bolivar, Tenn. :

It will be necessary to keep a vigilant lookout to the front and right flank in direction of Somerville. I wish you would see Colonel Johnson, Twenty-eighth Illinois, when he returns; you may rely on the accuracy of his observations. I apprehend nothing of movements in force, but the enemy are strong in cavalry, and the country between La Grange and Somerville and so to Whitesville is fine foraging ground. The Hatchie is fordable still for cavalry at many points, especially near the mouth of Clover Creek, and, if you are satisfied it can be thoroughly done without too large a risk, I wish the nest of irregular cavalry near Somerville broken up, and a sharp lesson taught them not to come too near.

It was my rule not to send out a forage train without a heavy guard, generally a full regiment of infantry and two companies of cavalry. It is good exercise for the men and answers as @ reconnaissance.

Yours, truly, [S. A. HURLBUT], Major-General.