McPherson's head of column was some four miles behind, and I personally detached one of Hurlbut's regiments to guard the cross-roads at Decatur till the head of McPherson's column should come in sight.

Intending to spend the night in Decatur, I went to a double log-house, and arranged with the lady for some supper.

We unsaddled our horses, tied them to the fence inside the yard, and, being tired, I lay down on a bed and fell asleep.

Presently I heard shouts and hallooing, and then heard pistol-shots close to the house.

My aide, Major Audenried, called me and said we were attacked by rebel cavalry, who were all around us.