Note 10 — Chapter X · THE SIEGE OF KNOXVILLE.
Reading edition
In his report, General Longstreet says: "As our position at Knoxville was somewhat complicated, I determined to abandon the siege, and to draw off in the direction of Virginia, with an idea that we might find an opportunity to strike that column of the enemy's forces reported to be advancing by Cumberland Gap. The orders to move in accordance with this view were issued on the 2d of December."