Washington L. Elliott to J. K. MIZNER, Tuscumbia, August 6, 1862

August 6, 1862. Col. J. K. MIZNER, Tuscumbia : Your orders to cover the railroad line indicated points of station as recommended by General Thomas, but you were informed that it was not designed to restrict you to the occupancy of those stations or to the forces indicated; on the contrary, the general commanding explained to you that he was desirous that you should avoid the distribution of your troops into small detachments; that you should if possible endeavor to cover the road by massing them and striking the enemy in force. You will report to what extent you have carried out these instructions and what are the obstacles. General Morgan reports 400 rebel cavalry at Russellville and 200 at Frankfort. Why can they not be cut off? By order:

W. L. ELLIOTT,