HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TENNESSEE,
Missionary Ridge, November 4, 1863.
General JAMES LONGSTREET,
Commanding Corps:
GENERAL: You will move with your command (McLaws' and Hood's divisions and Alexander's and Leyden's artillery battalions) as indicated in our conference yesterday. Major-General Wheeler will make the necessary arrangements for the cavalry and probably accompany it, at least for a time. He is thoroughly acquainted with Middle Tennessee, and many of the officers with him will know the route there as well as all parts of East Tennessee. Every preparation is ordered to advance you as fast as possible, and the success of the plan depends on rapid movements and sudden blows. The country through which you move until you strike the mountains will subsist your command and forage your animals, besides giving a large surplus of breadstuffs. Your object should be to drive Burnside out of East Tennessee first, or better, to capture or destroy him. Maj. Gen. Samuel Jones will be urged to press on him from Northeast Tennessee. You will please keep open the telegraphic communication with us here and see to the repair and regular use of railroad to Loudon. The latter is of the first importance, as it may become necessary in an emergency to recall you temporarily. I hope to hear from you fully and frequently, general, and sincerely wish you the same success which has ever marked your brilliant career.
I am, general, very respectfully and truly, yours,
BRAXTON BRAGG
Source: Official Records
Commentary
Letter from General Braxton Bragg commanding James Longstreet into East Tennessee.