Forrest's Narrow Escape

General Nathan Bedford Forrest

Capt. M.P. Thatcher recalls how the Second Michigan almost captured Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest, the most feared cavalry general in the west:

As they neared Linneville, General Wilson and staff rode up to the advance, where Captain Whittemore, of the Second, had three companies (the first battalion), and said, "The rebels are going too slow; can't you push them faster?"
"Yes, sir, I think I could start them on the run if I was sure of support when compelled to fall back by Forrest's main force."
"I will send the fourth regulars to support you."
Away they went at a gallop, scattering the lighter part of the rear gaurd, capturing many and sending them to the rear; others took to the fields and woods, and everything looked favorable for a general stampede of the Confederates, when, as they entered Lynneville, Captain Whittemore saw a number of soldiers, mounted; some of them sat resting, one leg thrown over the pommel of the saddle. Dashing into there midst, several of them were captured and others escaped in confusion.
General Forrest was there, surrounded by his staff and escort. One of his orderlies, standing a few feet of the General, was caught by the shoulder by Captain Whittemore and sent to the rear. This escort afterward that he had made a poor selection, as General Forrest stood next to him, and he might as well have been captured as an orderly.
Passing through the town it was discovered that the fourth regulars were not following. The enemy made the same discovery, and wheeling about in strong force checked what might have been a grand route, if this little battalion had been backed by 1,000 men.

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