Our defeat would be disastrous to the nation; and to expect of new men, who never bore arms, to do miracles, is not right.
I am, with much respect, yours truly, W.T.SHERMAN, Brigadier-General commanding.
About this time my attention was drawn to the publication in all the Eastern papers, which of course was copied at the West, of the report that I was "crazy, insane, and mad," that "I had demanded two hundred thousand men for the defense of Kentucky;" and the authority given for this report was stated to be the Secretary of War himself, Mr.Cameron, who never, to my knowledge, took pains to affirm or deny it.

My position was therefore simply unbearable, and it is probable I resented the cruel insult with language of intense feeling.

Still I received no orders, no reenforcements, not a word of encouragement or relief.

About November 1st, General McClellan was appointed commander-in-chief of all the armies in the field, and by telegraph called for a report from me.

It is herewith given: HEADQUARTERS THE DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Louisville, Kentucky, November 4, 1861 General L.THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D.C.
Sir: In compliance with the telegraphic orders of General McClellan, received late last night, I submit this report of the forces in Kentucky, and of their condition.
The tabular statement shows the position of the several regiments.
The camp at Nolin is at the present extremity of the Nashville Railroad.