From wise's Legion — position of the enemy — an Ambuscade, &c.
The enemy are in pretty strong force between Hawk's Nest and the place where Gauley Bridge formerly stood, and are fortifying all along the road to that place. It will take a good force and hard fighting to dislodge them if they are disposed to stand and can fight, though they have done some very poor fighting lately.
Several days ago, our cavalry were led into an ambush of the enemy. They were concealed in large numbers in the woods, and on both side of the road, behind the fences. At the signal, they showed themselves, and poured a hot fire into the cavalry, who of course were compelled, from the nature of the ground, to retreat to the main body, which they did, running the gauntlet through a hot fire for half a mile, delivering a running fire as they retreated. But, strange to say, we only lost one man mortally wounded, two others slightly, and two horses, while they lost four killed.
We are taking prisoners every day. Gen. Wise offered the enemy battle on Sunday week, when they engaged our cavalry; but they retreated, notwithstanding their numbers were superior, as we had reason to believe.
Jeff.
