the south, and inferred from this that
Bragg had abandoned Chattanooga, and was either retiring before us or
making preparations to check the center and right of our line.

9. Marched up the valley to Stephen's Gap and rejoined the division.

10. Our division marched across McLemore's Cove to Pigeon mountain,
found Dug Gap obstructed, and the enemy in force on the right, left, and
front. The skirmishers of the advance brigade, Colonel Surwell's, were
engaged somewhat, and during the night information poured in upon us,
from all quarters, that the enemy, in strength, was making dispositions
to surround and cut us off before reinforcements could arrive.

11. Two brigades of Baird's division joined us about 10 A. M. Five
thousand of the enemy's cavalry were reported to be moving to our left
and rear; soon after, his infantry appeared on our right and left, and,
a little later, in our front. From the summit of Pigeon mountain, the
rebels could observe all our movements, and form a good estimate of our
entire force. Our immense train, swelled now by the transportation of
Baird's division to near four hundred wagons, compelled us to select
such positions as would enable us to protect the train, and not such as
were most favorable for making an offensive or defensive fight.

It was now impossible for Brannan and Reynolds to reach us in time to
render assistance. General Negley concluded, therefore, to fall back,
and ordered me to move to Bailey's Cross-roads, and await the passage of
the wagon train to the rear. The enemy attacked soon after, but were
held in check until the transportation had time to return to Stephens'
Gap.

12. We expected an attack this morning, but, reinforcements arriving,
the enemy retired. This afternoon Brannan made a reconnoissance, but the
result I have not ascertained; there was, however, no fighting.

I am writing this in the woods, where we are bivouacking for the night.
For nearly two weeks, now, I have not had my clothes off; and for
perhaps not more than two nights of the time have I had my boots and
spurs off. I have arisen at three o'clock in the morning and not lain
down until ten or eleven at night. My appetite is good and health
excellent. Last night my horse fell down with me, and on me, but strange
to say only injured himself.

We find great numbers of men in these mountains who profess to be loyal.
Our army is divided--Crittenden on the left, our corps (Thomas) in the
center, an