Buell Pursues Bragg

Buell is finally in actual pursuit of Braxton Bragg, believing him to be headed for Louisville.  This seems to be the generals' consensus as support of that city is now every one's priority.  Notice that both Generals, Commanding now have troops at Louisville.

Ref.:  http://ehistory.osu.edu/osu/sources/recordView.cfm?Content=023/0531

IN THE FIELD, September 21, 1862.
General GILBERT, Louisville:

It is just reported that Bragg has left Munfordvile. I am not advised of the road he is on, but it is understood that his destination is Louisville. At all events you cannot be too well prepared. I am following rapidly. I requested you to have a bridge ready to be thrown across the mouth of Salt River. I hope you have attended to it, though it will depend upon the movements of the enemy whether I go that way. We shall need supplies. Please have them ready.

The messenger (Eaton), whom I sent to you from Dripping Springs, was captured returning, and I have no answer to my dispatch.

endeavor to communicate with me on the Louisville road.

D. C. BUELL.


However, General Wright understands that finding and fighting Bragg in the field before he reaches Louisville is Buell's ambition.  He therefore advises Nelson to be prepared for two eventualities and offers additional support for the defense of the city, should Bragg make it that far.

Ref.:  http://ehistory.osu.edu/osu/sources/recordView.cfm?Content=023/0532


HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO,
Cincinnati, Ohio, September 21, 1862.

Major General WILLIAM NELSON,Commanding, &c.,
Louisville, Ky.:

Your dispatch giving report that Buell's forces at or near Horse Cave and that latter had recrossed Green River is received. It is too late to re-enforce Buell from Louisville for this battle now going on, and you can only hold command ready to move in the direction in which you can best co-operate with him on getting further intelligence. Say what action you propose in the matter. Buell's movements ought to to govern yours.

H. G. WRIGHT,
Major-General, Commanding     

                           *  *  *           

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO,
Cincinnati, Ohio, September 21, 1862.

General WILLIAM NELSON,
Louisville, Ky.:

I will send you six gunboats. You have now or on the way eleven steamers, which you should keep. Four more are there, if they have not started back. Do you want more? How many more troops do you require with which to make successful defense of Louisville? We must not give it up while a chance of holding it remains. Eight regiments from here have been sent you, which with those promised form Illinois will give you a large force. A few more might be sent from here if absolutely necessary. Only ne ferry-boat can be sent. Others of too deep draught.

H. G. WRIGHT,
Major-General, Commanding.