12 O'c at night, 12 & 13 Sept 63,

Lafayette, Geo.

 

General,

                        I have your dispatch giving me your position and the dispositions of the enemy opposite to you. Your position seems to be a strong one for defense, but I hope will not be held unless the enemy attacks early. We must force him to fight at the earliest moment, and before his combinations can be carried out. Your generals who advise the concentration of the larger portion of the Army with you only know of Crittenden's Corps being opposed to you, and did not know of the advance again of a heavy Infy force in the cove upon this place, and of another from the South, preceded by a very large Cavalry force. However, to avoid all danger, I shall put Buckner in motion in the morning, and run the risk here. We must not delay attack for his arrival or another golden opportunity may be lost by the withdrawal of our game. Had you and the generals with you had the information in my possession at the date of your dispatch, your conclusions might have varied / But I trust the Cavalry sent south may hold the enemy in check until you can finish the job entrusted to you.

 

            Action prompt and decided is all that can save us. The troops are ready to respond.

                                                                       

I am General

Very truly yrs,

Braxton Bragg.

 

Lt. Genl. L. Polk,

            Cmg &c at

                        Rock Spring

 

 

Head Quarters A.T.

In the Field

Lafayette, Ga.

Septr 13^th 1863

12½ A.M.

 

General,

                        The enemy is approaching from the south, and it is highly important your attack in the morning should be quick and decided.

           

Let no time be lost.

                                                                       

I am, General

Most respectfully

Your obdt. svt.

George W^m Brent

A.A.G.

 

Leut. Gen^l Polk

            Cmdg Corps

 

[overleaf]

Lafayette Ga. 12½ A.M.

            Sept. 13^th 1863

 

Geo. W^m Brent

            A.A.Genl

 

Reports the enemy

approaching from

the South, and ad-

vises that the at-

tack in the morning

should be quick and decided.

 

A.G.O.

Rec^d Sept 13^th 1863

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