W. M. Sooy Smith to Arthur C. Duoat, November 5, 1862

Lieut. Col. ARTHUR C. DUOAT, [Acting] Chief of Staff:

Sir: A cavalry detachment, which I sent out to capture some rebel soldiers to-day, has just returned, bringing three of them in. One, a corporal, who deserted as Bragg passed through this place advancing into Kentucky; the other two deserted on the night of the 30th ultimo at Murfreesborough, Tenn. They belong to Breckinridge’s division, which they say was there, consisting of tenregiments. They were transported by rail from Knoxville to Bridgeport, ferried over the Tennessee River, and then carried by rail from thence to Murfreesborough. The division was to advance toward Nashville the next day (31st) after their desertion, and it was to be supported by the whole of Bragg’s army, under command of Joe Johnston, and moving into Middle Tennessee, part by rail, by way of Chattanooga and Bridgeport, and part marching by way of Sparta. Bragg had been sent to Richmond, in arrest.

Except so far as the above statements refer to Breckinridge’s division, they are, of course, mere camp rumors, entitled to credit only so far as concurrent circumstances may corroborate them.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,