Unknown to Lyne Starling, August 20, 1863

Lieut. Col. LYNE STARLING, Chief of Staff, Twenty-first Army Corps:

CoLONEL: Colonel Minty started this afternoon on the expedition designated in instructions from department headquarters. I wrote last evening inquiring if he was expected to remain out or to return when he obtained all information possible. He is short of forage. His train arrived to-day from McMinnville with but two days’ forage, bringing all that could be had at McMinnville. As our supplies were received at that point from Nashville, we were obliged to take what we could get and be thankful. My letter of instructions was received but an hour and a half before my command was in motion.

These instructions did not reach me as soon as antici vated, and as a consequence I did not make this point as soon as directed. No effort, however, was spared on my part to be here on time. Colonel Minty could not have made his march by way of Sparta and accomplished what he was required to do in less time than he did it. He is certainly an able and efficient officer.

The portion of my train left at McMinnville, about 40 wagons, will be here on the 22d with rations. To-morrow I send back about 25 of my wagons and all Colonel Minty’s train for supplies.