ORs: (CS) Dispatch of Brig. Gen. John A. Wharton - December 12, 1862

War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies
Series 1, Volume 20, Part 1 Page 78

HEADQUARTERS WHARTON’S BRIGADE, POLK’S CORPS D’ARMEE, ARMY OF TENNESSEE,
Nolensville, Tenn.,
December 12, 1862—7.30 p. m.

GENERAL:
I dispatched you this morning, advising [you of] the occupation of Franklin by the enemy, who, after breaking the stones and destroying the machinery of the mill, left, via the Nashville pike, about 11 o’clock. Colonel Smith has returned to Franklin and reoccupied the place. The force of the enemy engaged this morning was 2,000 cavalry and two pieces of artillery, being five times as much as Colonel Smith’s force. Their loss was 3 killed and 6 wounded. General [Colonel John] Kennett was in command. The infantry sent over there has been recalled, but the cavalry are in pursuit of the enemy. I have learned that the infantry now in my rear will soon be recalled, and I beg to call your attention to the exposed condition of my left and rear which will result therefrom. For this reason I would like to recall the force from Franklin, so as to have my forces more concentrated. The mill being destroyed, the only object to be attained would be to prevent illicit communication with the enemy, which could be done by having my forces this side.

I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNO. A. WHARTON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Cavalry Brigade.

Lieutenant-General POLK,
Commanding Corps d’Armee, Army of Tennessee.