TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 46 (Part II) AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1895 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B 162/9//LTh, F 44 THE GIFT OF I I /.J2 ~ CIRCULAT Title Page Page 1 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF TIlE OFFICIAL IEtIECO17~DS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OI~ The Hon. DANIEL S. LAMONT, Secretary of War, BY MAJ. GEORGE B. DAVIS, U. S. A., MR. LESLIE J. PERRY, MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY, Board of Publication. SERIES IVOLUME XLVIIN THREE PARTS. PART IlCORRESPONDENCE, ETC. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, 1895 Page 2 A. ~57+ Page 3 PART 11.VOL. XLVI. CORRESPONDENCES ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING TO OPERATIONS IN NORTHERN AND SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA, NORTH CAROLINA (JANUARY 1-31), WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, AND PENiN SYLVANIA, FROM JANUARY 1, 1865, TO MARCH 15, 1865. * UNiON COHHESPONDENCE, ETC. CITY POINI V Hon. E. M. STAN CON, A.~ January 1, 1865. Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.: Herewith I submit a statement lately drawii up by Lieutenant-Colonel Comstock, of my staff, who was with the expedition which moved against Fort Fisher. It was his views of the situation, aiid no one had a bet- ter opportunity of seeing than he had, and no one is more capable of judging. The fact is there are but two ways of taking Fort Fisher, oper- ating from the water: One is ~o surprise them whilst there is but a small garrison defending the place; the other is for the navy to send a portion of their fleet into Cape Fear River whilst the enemys batteries are kept down by the fire from the balance. Troops caii then laud and hold the point until the troops in the fort surrender. With Cape Fear River in the hands of the enemy they have the same command over tIme sand spit on which Fort Fisher is built that we have. In the three days of good weather which elapsed after the army had reached the scene of action, before the navy appeared, our trool)s had the chance oC eal)turil]g Fort Fisher whilst it had an insufficient garrison to hold it~ the delay gave the enemy time to accumulate a force. Every prepara- tmon is now going on to get troops back to the mouth of Cape Fear River as soon as possible. The enemy may by that time have withdrawn Ilokes division, which went froiim here to Wilmington. If not, Admiral Porter will have to run a portion of his fleet by the batteries, as snggeste(1 before, or there will be no earthly use in landing troops. The failure before was the result of delays by the navy. I do not say unavoidable, for I kmmow nothing of the cause, since the work to be done is likely to require much greater risk on their part than if the delay had not occurred. I know Admiral Porter to be possessed of as fine judg- ment as any other officer, and capable of taking as great risks. It will be miecessary, however, that he should know and appreciate the situa- tion in all its bearings, and be ready to act according to the emnergency. I will write to Imini fully or send hint a copy of this, and also send the samne staff officer that accompanied the expedition before, who will lay the whole thing before him. It seems to me proper that these views should be laid before Adumiral Porter by the Secretary of the Navy also. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- (Jeneral. * For Correspondence, etc., from March 16, 1865, to June 30, 1865, see Part III. (3 Page 4 4 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. [Inelosurel HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, Va., January 1, 1865. Lent. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistctnt A djntant- General: SIR: I have the honor to submit some considerations on the recent failure at Wilmington and on the Chalices of success of auy future attempt. In my opinion the cause of the failure was the delay in mak- ing the attack, giving ample time to the enemy to put a force at Wil- mington larger than the land force sent by us. The laud forces embarked at Bermuda Hundred on the 8th of December in the expecta- tion of a very short delay at Fort Monroe. Owing to the weather and the powder-boat they did not go to sea until the 14th, arriving off Wilmington the night of the 15th. Three days of good weather then ensued, on any of which the army could have lauded, the enemy, as we afterward were informed, having at that time but 400 men in Fort Fisher and about 2,500 in the vicinity of Wilmington. If an attack had been made it would have had every chance of success that could have been expected. On the evening of the third of these three days of fine weather Admiral Porter arrived, but a breeze sprang up the same night (D~cember 18), making a landing impracticable. From this time tiji December 25 the army force could not land from bad weather, and the necessity of going into Beaufort,N. C., for coal and water. On the 25th a landing was efP~cted. Prisoners captured from Hokes division, of Lees army, informed General Butler, as he told me, that Kirklands and Hagoods brigades were there as re-enforcements. Seventeen days had elapsed since the embarkation at Bermuda Hundred and eleven since the departure front Fort Monroe; both army and navy had shown themselves at Beaufort; all chance of a surprise was gone; a reconnaissance of Fort Fisher from the land showed it uninjured; a few skirmishers went up to the work, but when a body of about 300 men showed themselves 1,000 yards away from the work, they were fired on by the work; an assault of the work in its uninjured condition, with sixteen or seventeen heavy guns sweeping the ground over which the assault would be made, was deemed impracticable, and the troops were re-embarked. Prisoners who left the work in the morning reported the garrison to be 1,000 men, and gave the regiments. The proper method of defense of a work like Fort Fisher under such circumstances would be to keep its garrison iii its bombproofs to avoid loss, firing a few guns to prevent the navy from running by, and only manning the parapets at the moment of an assault. If there were more troops than were needed for the defense of the work, or thami could be sheltered in its bombproofs, they should be kept out of the work in the day to avoid loss from the navy fire, and brought back at night to resist any nighmt attack. This seems to have been the method followed. The artillery fire of the fort was very shi~ht, as was the musketry fire on our skirmishers, during daylight, but heavy after dark. We cap- ture(l 200 men who had heft the fort in the morning for want of bomb- proof shelter on their way back to it at night. As to future operations, I think if aii equal force, say 600 men, could be placed before Fort Fisher under the same circumn~tauces as our force was in fromn the 15th to the 18th of December, it would have a good chance of success. This supposes that the enemy will at once diminish the garrison of Fort Fisher to 400 men, and take away whatever r Page 5 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCT2, ETC.IJNION. 5 enforcements were sent, and, in addition, that within a week from the embarkation here a landing can be effected there. At the present sea- son this is a matter of much doubt. For a siege of Wiliniiigton or Fort Fisher, the force should, in my opinion, not be less than 15,000 men. Supplying this force from the open beach or from Masonborough Inlet at this season of the year is, 1 think, very uncertain. If we had continued the landing begun on the 25th it would have, from bad weather, taken three days to get the men all ashore. I may add that at the time we were at Fort Fisher the Tallahassee, an iron-clad, and another small armed vessel were reported in the Cape Fear Itiver, and would suggest that if the navy is able to silence Fort Fisher so that it cannot interfere with an assault on shore, it would also be able to send some vessels past Fort Fisher, in case another attempt was made, to prevent troops being annoye(1 by the fire of those vessels. Very respectfully, C. B. CONSTOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-de- Camp. NORTH ATLANTIC SQUADRON, U. S. FL~c~-srnP MALYERN, Beaufort, N. C., January 1, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, U. S. Army, Commanding Armies of the United States: DEAR GENERAL: I have just received yours of December 30.* I shall be all ready, and thank God we are not to leave here with so easy a victory at haiid. Thank you for so promptly trying to rectify the blunder so lately committed. I knew you would do it. I sent to General Sher- man for troops, knowing lie must be in Savannah. I would like the troops to rendezvous here. They should have provisions to last them on shore in case we are driven oft by gales, bnt I can cover any num- ber of troops, if it blows ever so hard. I have held on here through all and the heaviest gales ever seen here. They seem to blow that I might show the commanders that we could ride it out at anchor. The rebels have no intrenchments, nor will any they make avail them. We destroyed all their abatis, and made a beautiful bridge for the troops to cross on. They think they have whipped us. 1 made the ships go off as if they were crippledsome in tow. We lost one man killed; you may judge what a SiInl)le business it was. I will work night and day to be ready. We will have Wilmington in a week, weather per- mitting. Please impress the commander with the importance of con- sulting with me freely, as regards weather and landing. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant DAVID D. PORTER, Rear-Admiral, Commanding North Atlantic Squadron. CITY POINT, VA., January 1,1865. Colonel WEBSTER, Quartermaster, Fort Monroe: Please say to Captain Mitchell, navy ordnance boat, that Mr. Blair leaves here at 2.30 p. m. for Fortress Monroe. Please to fire up by the time he gets there. U. S. GRANT, Licutena nt- General. See Vol. XLII, Part III, p. 1100 Page 6 6 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. 14V111. CITY POINT, January 1, 1865. (Received 12.50 p. in.) Brig. ~eu. H. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster: Nothing of importance has transpired. Latest reports show only nine days grain and two and one-fourth days hay oii hand. Captain James report of 30th of December shows little more thaii one days sup ply there, arid about four days grain to arrive, per bills lading received. In case the supply keeps falliug oft; do you wish the daily allowance for the animals reduced ~ WM. T. HOWELL, Captain and Assistant Quartermaster. CITY POINT, VA., January 1, 1865. (Received 12.40 p. in.) Brig. Gen. R. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster: Captain Howell has telegraphed you in relation to forage. Very little has arrived. The brig Olive, with 100,000 feet 4 by 4 boards, inai~ked Capt. J. E. Jones, assistant quartermaster, arrived December 31, 1864; alsG the steamer Peconic, with 100,000 fee t4by4boards, for Capt. E. E. Camp, assistant quartermaster. G. W. BRADLEY, Colonel and Quartermaster. GENERAL ORDERS ,~ HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, No.1. January 1, 1865. The troops being now well protected against the inclemency of the season, the commanding general enjoins upon division commanders the use of every hour of favorable weather for drills and evolutions. Reg- ular recitations in tactics and regulations should now be had, and the Articles of War should be frequently read. A systematic effort should be made by division, brigade, and regimental commanders to bring their troops to the highest practicable state of discipline. By order of Major-General Humnphreys: SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 1, 1865. Maj. SEPT. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second 61orps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that nothing worthy of remark has occurred in this command during the past twenty-four hours. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Brevet Lieutenant- Colonel, Comm an ding Page 7 CHAP. LVIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 7 HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 1, 1865. (Received 11.15 a. ut) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. FoRT BRADY, VA., January 1, 1865. Byt. Brig. Gen. H. L. AEBOT, Gommanding Siege Artillery: GENERAL: I have the honor to report no firing. The mine at Dutch Gap Canal was exploded at precisely 4 p. in. to-day. There was no per- ceptible shock and bnt little noise; should not have noticed it had I been looking in another direction. Not a ripple in the river was created at this distance. Am fearful that the experiment has proved a failure; have no positive information with regard to it, however. General Butler and staff, and Senator Clark, of New Hampshire, were here to witness the event. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PiERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. SPECIAL ORDERS, fin QRS. TWENTY-FOURTh ARMY CORPS, No. 1. January 1, 1865. 1. The Provisional Brigade of the Third Division is hereby relieved from duty with Brigadier-General Devens. Colonel Granger, with his command, will report to Brig. Gen. A. Ames, commanding Second Division. * * * * * * * By command of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: THEODORE READ, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDE~S, ~ HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 24TH ARMY CORPS, Xo. 1. In the Field, Va., January 1, 1865. Brig. Gen. R. S. Foster having received a leave of absence from the department the undersigned assumes command of this division. JOS. R. HAWLEY, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 24TH ARMY CORPS, No. 1. In the Field, January 1, 1865. I. Brig. Gen. Joseph R. Hawley, U. S. Volunteers, having assumed command of the division during the absence of Brig. Gen. H. S. Foster, Col. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the Second Brigade. By order of Brig. Gen. J. H. Hawley: A. TERRY, Captain a~nd Assistant Adjutant- General Page 8 8 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, January 1, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: The balance of the Provisional Division is arriving. Shall I send the West Virginia brigade over to-day? Very respectfully, E. FERItERO, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, VA., ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 1, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICER THIRD BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, ARMY OF WEST VIRGINIA: SIR: You will proceed at 7 oclock to-morrow mornino with your corn- maud and report to Maj or-General Ord, comnian dii g Twenty-fourth Corps. You will take your baggage) camp and garrison equipage, & c., with you. You will give strict orders to have your camps left in good order, as other troops will occupy them. You will leave a staff officer in 6ach camp, who will remain until the troops have moved, to see that the huts, & c., are not destroyed. By order of Brevet Major-General Ferrero: GEO. A. HICKS, Assistant A djnt ant- General. HDQRS. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, VA., ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 1, 1865. Colonel HEINE, Commanding First Brigade, Provisional Division: COLONEL: The brigade of Virginia troops will move at 7 oclock to. morrow morning. As soou as they move you will occupy their camp with your command. You will at once have the breast-works on your line repaired and pnt in good condition. Tools can be obtained of the engineer officer in charge. By order of Brevet Major-General Ferrero: GEG. A. HICKS, A ssistant Adjutant- General. HEADQIJARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., January 1, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. T. M. HARRIS, Comdg. First Division, Army of West Virginia: GENERAL: I am instructed by the major-general commanding to direct you to encamp the Third Brigade of your division in such place as you can select most convenient to you. This brigade you will place iii reserve. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ThEODORE HEAD, iTtajor and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 9 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 9 HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 1, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have to report that Captain Minnich, who accompaiiied the flag of truce yesterday with Mrs. Yarrington and her effects, was fired upon on the l)arbytowu road by the enemys pickets, the ball passing through his clothes. After being received he was kept there between the lines until after dark for the reason that no preparations had been made to meet him. No excuse was offered for firing, except that no flag was expected. Very respectfully, your obedient servant AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General. Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY Conps, January 1, 1865. Brigadier-General MCMILLAN, Summit Point: Are you -well enough to take colnilland of the First Division l If you are report to these headquarters iii person for orders by the first train. PETER FRENCH, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CrrY POINT, VA., January 2, 18651 p. m. (Received 1.40 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War: Can you get the Navy Department to send twenty large launches, like those formerly furnished the army, to the quartermaster at Fortress Monroe at once~ IT. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. [Memorandum.1 Telegraphed January 2 to colninan(lants at Portsmouth, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Norfolk, and Washington to know how many launches and first cutters, with oars, they have available for instant service, to reply immediately. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary. CITY POINT, VA., January 2, 18653 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General Sheridan proposed sending another division of troops here, but I suspended his action. Let him get them to Baltimore now as soon as possible, and all the infantry on vessels that can go to Wil- mington ready for orders. Should I send his troops there I will sen Page 10 10 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. him with them. I cannot go myself so long as General Butler would be left iu command. I will state that the former expeditioti was put under Weitzel by order, and I never dreamed of Butler going uutil he stopped here on his way down the river. The operations taking place within the geographical limits of his department, I did not like to order him back. U. S. GItANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 2, 18659 p. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: There are no transports at Baltimore. A number are collecting at Fort Monroe. Inquiry made as to transports available at New York. Will know to-morrow. Do you wish any sent from New York to Balti- more, and if so, for how ii~any men l E. M. STANTON. CITY POINT, VA., January 2, 186511 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I do not know how many men General Sheridan will sendprobably 4,000. My idea was that he could send theni easier to Baltimore thaii Washington, and by having the infantry loaded on sea-going trans- ports they could be sent direct to Wilmington if a lodgment is effected. We will probably reach Porters fleet next Friday; transports, however, are not all at Fort Monroe yet. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 2, 186510 p. in. (Received ii p. in.) Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of Nary: It was to-day I said vessels were to be assembled at Fort Monroe. The whole number required are not there yet. Admiral Porter shonld coal and fill up at once, and be ready. The troops will probably be off Fort Fisher by Friday next. I think the fleet can furnish boats enough if they cannot be got conveniently elsewhere. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 2, 18658 p.m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: 1 have telegraphed to all the navy-yards for boats; I am afraid we cannot have many on hand; there are only two at this yard, which will leave inimediately. Perhaps the quartermaster at New York better be directed to go into the market and purchase all he can find; such sized boats are scarce. Please write fully to Admiral Porter as early as possible. I notified him yesterday of the fact only, knowing n Page 11 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 11 more. He must coal and fill up with ammunition and provisions is the reason I ask you to write to him. I wrote him that your force would leave to-day, but if it is not so he should know it. G. V. FOX. Assistant Secretary of Navy. WASHINGTON, January 2, 186512.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point Va.: A pretended deserter reports that Lee has constructed a dam on the James River, by means of which he expects to inundate a part of your works. I did not see him, so as to learn any of the particulars of his story. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., January 2, 1865. Col. M. R. MORGAN, Commissary of Subsistence, Fort Monroe: Report by telegraph the moment the vessels will be provisioned. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General. FOnT MONROE, January 2, 18658 p. m. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chie,f of Staff City Point: All the vessels have not yet airived. Those now here have been all provisioned. M. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 2. City Point, Va., January 2, 1865. 1. Eight thousand infantry and two batteries of artillery, without horses, will be got in immediate readiness to embark on transports, with orders to report to Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, at Savannah, Ga. 2. They will be provided with four days cooked rations in haver- sacks. 3. The troops and artillery of the late expedition against Wilming- ton, having experience in embarking and debarking, will be selected; and to make up the balance of the 8,000, good and tried soldiers of the Second Brigade, First Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, will be taken. 4. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the command of these forces. 5. Every practicable precaution will be observed to prevent infor. niation of any movement of troops getting to the enemy. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 12 12 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 2. January 2, 1865. * -H * * * * * 3. Battery H, First Rhode Island Artillery, now serving with the Artillery Reserve, is assigned to the Artillery Brigade, Sixth Corps, which it will join with as little delay as practicable. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Parke: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 2, 1865. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Three deserters from the rebel army came into our lines last night.. A. A. HUMPHREYS, iMajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 2, 186512.50 p. m. General A. A. HUMPHREYS, Commanding second Corps: Has Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. J. Madill, One hundred and forty-first Pen usyl- vania Volunteers, been assigned to duty by the Presidebt according to his brevet rank ~? S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 2, 1865. (Received 1.20 l~ in.) General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No order assigning Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. J. Madill to dnty with his brevet rank has been received at these headquarters, although I rec- ommended that he should be so assigned. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 2, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICER SECOND CORPS: I do not find that we have ever received a communication from you asking that Bvt. Brig. Gen. II. J. Madill, One hundred and forty-first Pennsylvania Moluateers, be assigned to duty according to his breve Page 13 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UN!ON. 13 rank. When was it forwarded l I suppose in the absence of the assign- merit you do not desire to have General Madill ordered to report to General Miles, as requested in General Miles letter, forwarded by you the 31st ultimo. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 2, 1865. (Received 10.30 p. in.) General WILLIAMS, Assistant A djutant- General: I find that Brevet Brigadier-General Madills name was not included in the list of those brevet officers who had commands equal to their brevet rank, and resJ)ecting whom a request was made that they should be assigned to duty according to that rank. I will send up a coininuni- cation to-morrow requesting that General Madill be assigned to duty according to his brevet rank, and be ordered to report to the coin mander of the First Division, Second Army Corps, for assignment to command. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, No. 1. Before Petersburg, Va., January 2, 1865. * * * * * * * 6. The commanding officers of the First and Second Divisions will each detail a suitable officer to have charge of the intrenchmeiits of their respective divisions, whose duty it will be to see that they are at all times kept in good repair. The officers detailed, besides reporting to and receiving the directions of their division commander, will report the coimdition of the iutrenchments to the engineer officer in charge of the intrcnchments of the army, Captain Howell, U. S. Engineers. * * * * * * * By order of Major-Genem al Humphreys: SEPT. CAIINCIIOSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 2, 1865. Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN: As the cavalry are out of forage, the commanding general directs that you order your chief quartermaster to cause 100,000 pounds of grain to be transferred to the chief quartermaster of the Second Cav- alry Division. It is probable that the grain will be returned to-mor- row. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 14 14 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 2, 1865. (Received 9.25 p. ni.) General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing of importance to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HDQRS. SIXTH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 2, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to call the attention of the major-gen- eral commanding to the present disposition of the artillery of the Corps, and to suggest the necessity of making some additions thereto. The corps artillery, consisting at this time of seven batteries, is at present distributed along the line of intrenchments, thirty-six guns being posted in the front line from Battery 24 to Fort Con ahey, and one section of two guns in Fort Davison in the rear line, leaving nothing in the shape of artillery as a reserve. It is expected, I presume, that the- artillery of the Fifth Corps will serve as a reserve in case of need, but, from its location, I feel satisfied that it could not be brought up and placed in battery in less than an hour to meet an attack upon me. It is readily conceivable that, in view of the close proxhnity of the enemys lines to our own, the presence of reserve batteries might be of the greatest value much within the time required for the Fifth Corps artillery to get on the ground, and I would therefore recommend that at least two six-gun batteries, in addition to what I now have, be assigned me, to be held in reserve near the center of the Sixth Corps line. I would also suggest.that two of the batteries which were with the corps in the Valley, and which have become identified with it by long service, are now at Camp Barry, and that if the desired artillery can- not be readily supplied from this army, I should be glad to get them back to the corps. They are G, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, and the First New York Independent Battery. I have brought this general subject already once before the major- general corumandin g, but the belief that he is not fully aware of tIme present disposition of the guns and the importance, in my judgument, of having some reserve artillery, induces me to again present it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 2, 1865. Col. C. H. TOMPKINS, Chief of Artillery, Sixth Corps: COLONEI~: Battery H, First Rhode Island Artillery, has been ordered to your brigade. This increase of artillery under your command is intended to enable you to place a section in the new work on your front and to relieve the section of Browns battery, belonging to Sec- ond Corps, that occupies the work in your rear line. It is not intende Page 15 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 15 that ami~ anition shall be placed in the magazines of the rear line of works. if any more wagons will be required for the transportation of ammunition in conseqnence of this increase in your brigade, you will please iuake application therefor to these headqnarters. Respectfully, your ibedient servant, JNO. N. CRAIG, Assistant Adjutant- Generw. CITY POINT, VA., January 2, 1865. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Army of the James: Please send Major-General Terry to City Point to see me this morn- ing. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 2, 1865. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Army of the James: I will be at home all day. When you were in New York I promised General Weitzel a leave of absence from the first of the year for thirty days. Does he desire to go ~ If so, he had better start ut once. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 2, 186512.20 p. m. Major-General TERRY, Twenty-foLrth Army Corps: You will report to General Grant in person at City Point immedi- ately. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of staff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTh ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., January 2, 1865. Brig. Gen. CHARLES DEVENS, 61ommanding. Third Division: GENERAL: The brevet major-general commanding directs me to say that to-morrow morning, the 3d instant, you will relieve the entire picket-line occupied by the Second Division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THEODORE READ, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General Page 16 16 N. AND SE. VN., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII.. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 2, 186511.23 p. m. Brigadier-General HECKNAN, Twenty-fifth Army Corps: You will withdraw Paines division from the lines, relieving his men oii picket duty early to-morrow morning. Yon will direct General Paine to report in person to General Terry at 9 a. m. Yoif will also place Lieutenant Myricks battery nuder General Terrys order, having that officer also report to General Terry at same time. By order of General Butler: JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 2, 18656 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN: The following dispatch has jnst beeu received from General Grant.* It i~ forwarded you for your information and direction. Please ac- knowledge its receipt. I am not advised whether there is transporta- tion at Baltimore, but will learn from the Quartermaster-General. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WINCHESTER, VA., January 2, 18659 p. rn. (Received 9.20 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON; Secretary of War: Dispatch received. The movement of the troops will take place as soon as possible. ~. II. SJI~RIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, VA., January 2, 186510 p. m. Hon. E. NI. STANTON, Secretary of War: I can have a division of infantry in readiness to embark by rail at 10 oclock to-morrow if transportation can be furnished. I will try and have the transportation at Stephensons l)epot at that time. Troops are encamped at the Depot, and I will not give the order to get ready until I know at what hour the transportation will be ready. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. (Copy to Lieutenant-General Grant.) See Grant to Stanton, 3 p. in., P. 9 Page 17 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 17 WAR DEPARTMENT, January 2, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN: The Quartermaster-General reports that there is no transportation at Baltimore or Philadelphia, aiid fears it cannot be had immediately at New York. You will judge what movements should be made before transportation gets there, of which you will be promptly notified. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WINCHESTER, VA., January 2, 186512 midnight. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Transportation could have been furnished at Stephensons Depdt at 10 a. in. to-morrow, the 3d, bat I have not given the order for it to come uiitil the transports are ready at Baltimore. Please inform me when they will be ready. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major. General, Commanding Middle Military Division. HEADQUARTERS POST, Vienna, Va., January 2, 18~5. Capt. CHARLES I. WICKERSHAM, Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I have the honor to report that yesterday, eJaiiuary 1, 1865, two soldiers belonging to the Thirteenth New York Cavalry while on their way to this post were attacked by about twenty rebels who were con- cealed in the woods near Freedom Hill, Va. One of the men and one horse captured; the other oneliad three balls pass through his clothes, slightly wounding him on the left side and thumb. His horse ran to the camp of the Sixteenth New York; lie escaped by pretending to be unable to ride. This man stated that he had permission to come to this post from Colonet Gansevoort. On receiving the above information I sent out 100 men of the Sixteenth New York Cavalry to scour the colilitry for ten to fifteen miles in front; they returned at dark, seeing nothing, but heard that seven rebels passed in the direction of Jack- sou~s Mills, thence to Dratiesville. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. S. GALLUPE, Colonel Fifth Pennsylvania fleavy Artillery, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cumnberland, Md., January 2, 1865. COMMANDiNG OFFICER BATTERY L, FIRST OHIO ARTILLERY: (Through Brigadier-General Stevenson, IIarper~s Ferry, W. Va.) Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, now at Pleasant Valley, Nd., is directed to proceed to New Creek, W. Va. The quartermasters depart- ment will furnish trami sportation. 13y command of Major-General Crook: ROBTO P. KENNEDY, Assistant AdIui~t. G~er~4, 2 i~ l~yox,~ XLVII PT Page 18 18 N. ANI) SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. hEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 2, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Have aiiy field batteries been sent from harpers Ferry to Camp Barry, either yesterday or to-day0? ~. ~. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 2, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: No field batteries have been selit to Camp Barry, either yesterday or to-day. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Winchester, Va., January 2, 1865. (Received 2 p. in.) Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Send the following light batteries to Camp Barry to-morrow morning under command of Capt am McKnight, Fifth U. S. Artillery: Battery M, Fifth U. S. Artillery; Battery B, First West Virginia; Baltimore Battery; Thirtieth New York Independent Battery. They must carry five days rations and forage. You will furnish them an escort of 100 cavalry as far as Roekville. P. II. SHERIDAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. CITY POiNT, VA., January 3, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary ~f War: The expedition against Wilniington will commence their embarka- tion to-morrow morning, and, if the weather will permit going to sea, will be with Admiral Porter on Friday. Here there is not the slightest snspieion where troops are going. The orders to officers commanding enjoin secrecy, and designate Savannah, and to report to Sherman as their destination. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, January 3, 1865. (Received 7 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The Richmond Enquirer of to-day says: The Danville railroad is the great connecting line between Richmond and the sources of supp1y for the army now defending this city. Unless that road can be properly managed, can have a head and directory, at least competent to supply traTh~ with woo4 apd water, as well as t~ repm@ Jeaky engines, and, abQv~ all, wi~lj Page 19 CHAP. LYIIL) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 19 out honest and earnest men at the termini of the road, it will l)e but a few weeks before this city will he besieged, not by the enemy only, but L)y the stupidity of the management of this road. At a late important juncture of military affairs this road was so incompetently managed that a great (lisaster was imminent mat only pre- vented by the interposition of Providence, and not by the enterprise and manage- ment of the Danville road. During a recent serious scarcity of rations a train of cars, nine in number, came into Richmond with two cars for Governuient and seven for individuals, Rumor is busy with a thousand reports of bribery aud corruption, and the military authorities are loud in complaints against this road. The Whig represents the people of Richmond suffering for want of fuel, and urges that the Government shall furnish wood, as it does food. Hard wood is $100 per cord. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, January 3, 18657.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Put all team animals of your army ou half rations and all cavalry horses on three-quarter rations of forage until further orders. By command of Lieutenant General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to MajorGeneral Butler.) hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. January 3, 18658 .30 p. m. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Asst. A~jt. Gen., Hdqrs. Armies of the United States: Your dispatch directing a reduction of the forage ration has been received. JNO. G. PARKE. Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 3, 1865. Admiral D. D. PORTER, Commanding Ivorth Atlantic Blockading Sqnadron: I send Maj. Gen. A. II. Terry, with the same troops General Butler had, with one picked brigade added, to renew the attempt on Fort Fisher. In addition to this I have ordered General Sheridan to send a (livision of infantry to Baltimore to be put on sea-going transports, so that they can go also if their services are found necessary. This will augment General Terrys force from 4,000 to 5,000 men. These troops will be at Fort Monroe, if the transportation can be obtained (there is but little doubt it can), ready to sail at an hours notice. General Terry will show you the instructious he is acting under. My views are that Fort Fisher can be taken from the water front only iu two waysone is to surprise the enemy when they have an insufficient force; then the Qth~v is for th~ navy to run into Cape Fear River witil vesi~els enoug Page 20 20 N~ AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. to contend against anything the enemy ma~ have there. If the land- ing can be effected before this is done, well and good; but if the enemy are in very strong force, a landing may not be practicable nntil we have possession of the river. General Terry will consult with you fully, and will be governed by your snggestions as far as his responsibility for the safety of his coin- mand will admit of. Hoping you all sorts of good weather and success, I remain, & c., U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. INORTH ATLANTIC SQUADRON, FLAG-SHIP MALVE~N, Beaufort, N. C., January 3, 18G6. Lieut. Gen. IT. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States, City Point: DEAR GENERAL: I hold it to be a good rule never to send a boy on a mans errand, and we must ROW calcnlate that the rebels, having ascertained their weakness, will take measures to strengthen them- selves. The great thing was to effect a landing, which being done, everything else was easy. The troops could have fortified themselves where they landed against 100,000 men, covered as they were by over eighty heavy g:nns on the gun-boats, strung all along the beach. There is no use fretting over the past; we must endeavor to avoid mistakes in the friture; and if any expedition fails now to take the works, which were comparatively weak ten days ago, the sagacity of the leaders of the late expeditio~ will be applauded. The failure to assault the works so battered, and the people so demoralized by the dreadful bombard- ment, will set the rebels to work making themselves much stronger, and this is what I wish to draw your attention to. We cannot stop their work without bringing the whole squadron into play amid firing away all our ammunition before the time comes for work. It is no joke getting in coal and ammunition, lying ontside. The ships can only carry ten hours firing. Now I propose (jf it is possible) that you send every man you caim spare here, with intrenching tools, and fifteen 30-ponuders; the last party had not even a spade. An army can intrench themselves at Masonborough, and stay as long as they like, if a typhoon blows the ships to sea. I have received a letter from Sher- mnan.* He wants me to time my operatiomis by his, which I think a good plan. We will make a sure thing of it, but the troops and the navy must be ready to strike at a moments notice and when the enemy least expects us. We will have the report spread that the troops are to co-operate with Sherman in the attack omi Charleston. II hope Sherman will be allowed to carry out his plans; he will have Wilmington imi less than a month, and Charleston will fall like a ripe pear. I expect you understand all this better than I do. II have made arrangements to keep communication open with Sherman from the time he starts. Captain Breese will give you all the latest news. I am, general, very truly and sincerely, DAVID D. PORTER, Rear-Admiral. ~ec Vol ~I1AV, p. 842 Page 21 (hiii~. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 21 Lieutenant-General GRANT, NORFOLK, January 3, 1865. Commanding Armies of the United States: I am directed by the honorable Secretary of the Navy to turn over to you all the launches and large boats we have. Please direct me in the premises. J. M. BERRIEN, Commandant, Navy Yard. CITY POINT, VA., January 3, 18657.20 p. m. Capt. J. M. BERRIEN, U. S. Navy, Norfolk, Va.: Please send the launches and large boats to Colonel Webster, quar- rmaster, at For tress Monroe, by to-morrow noon, U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NEW YORK, January 3, 1865. Major-General MEADE: 1 leave on Thursday to report to you. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General. FORT MONROE, January 3, 18657 p. m. Capt. WILLIAM T. HOWELL, Assistant Quartermaster: Steamers all ready coaled and loaded with proper rations. The list will be handed you, stating capacity, & c., of each. li. C. WEBSTER, Colonel. CITY POINT VA Lieut. CoL M. H. MORO-AN, , ., January 3, 186510.30 a. m. Chief Commissary, Fort Monroe: Please state the number of vessels and number of men they will transport that have, up to this time, reported and been provisioned at Fort Monroe under your recent orders. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, January 3, 186511.30 a. m. General HAWLINS, Chief of Staff: The steamer Jllinois keeps things back; she will not be coaled until to-morrow morning. Four extra steamers have been sent here to repor Page 22 22 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., ~ VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. to the quartermaster; three of these are coaled;, no one knows what they are here for. I suggest one of themthe Atlauticto take the place of the Illinois. M. R. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence. FORT MONROE, January 3, 18651 p. m. General IRAWLINS, Chief of Staff: There have an abundance of vessels reported, but for want of dock accommodations coaling is a slow operation. Coaling is the hitch. There are nine vessels ready for sea. They will carry 4,475 men. I have decided to take everything that is fit and is coaled. By doing this we will get through, I hope, by 10 oclock to-night. Will report when through. M. R. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence. CITY POINT, VA., January 3, 18652 p. m. Lient. Col. M. R. MORGAN, Chief Commissary, Fort Monroe: The extra vessels you speak of; as having reported to the quarter- master, are evidently intended to make up the fleet you are rationing, and Captain Howell, assistant quartermaster, has been directed to so instruct the quartermaster at Fort Monroe. Ration them same as others and soon as possible. If any vessel is so large it can not get up here, the troops it is to carry will be sent to Fort Monroe in river trans- ports. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, January 3, 18655 .30 p. m. General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: Since my last, four vessels have been ready for sea; they will carry 2,150 men. The Atlantic, 1,400 men, cannot go up to City Point; she is not watered, but she will be to-night, and ready for sea in the morn- ing. General Ingalls has asked for the spare transportation to be sent to Baltimore; it has been so ordered. M. R. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence. FORT MONROE, January 3, 18656.30 p. m. General RAWLiNS: By summing up you will see that the Atlantic alone is unprovisioned. I may then say that all is ready, as the Atlantic cannot go up to City Point; amid before troops come to her she will be ready. M. R. MORGAN, Lieutenant Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence Page 23 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 3. January 3, 1865. * * * * * * 6. To meet a present deficiency in the supply of forage, the forage ration will be reduced to one-half, until further orders, for all team animals and one-fourth for all cavalry and artillery horses. By command of Major-General Parke: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 3, 186510.35 a. in. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. No changes in the disposition of my command since last report. Three deserters from the enemy came into 0tH lines last night. A. A. IIUMPHliEYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 3, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Array of the Potomac: I have the honor to recommend that Col. and Bvt. Brig. Gen. II. J. Madill, One hundred and forty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, be assigned to duty by the President according to his brevet rank, and ordered to repori to Bvt. Maj. Gen. N. A. Miles, commanding First Division, Second Army Corps, in order that he may be assigned to the command of a brigade. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. HUMPHPtEY~, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 3, 1865. Maj. Gen. S. W. CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Army Corps: An order was sent by telegraph last evening to Major-General War- ren directing that 100,000 pounds of grain be transferred from the Fifth Corps to the Second Cavalry Division. It appears that only forty sacks were transferred. The commanding general desires to be informed why the order was not complied with. It is absolutely nec- essary that the grain ordered be furnished the cavalry with the least delay practicable. ~. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 24 24 N AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, General S. WILLI4MS, January 3, 18657.40 p. m. Assistant Adjutant- General: Our quartermaster reports that 8,000 pounds of grain were furnished last night to the person sent from the cavalry to receive it. He was to return this morning for the balance ordered to be furnisbed. Requi- sitions were made upon all the quartermasters in the corps to furnish their proportion. The party has not beeti here to-day for the grain. Orders are made out for the delivery to the cavalry of 80,000 pounds of grain. The supply iii the corps is short, as the chief quartermaster states he has not been able to draw any grain for four days. General Crawford not being present, I have the honor to report as above. FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, Brig. (len. S. WILLIAMS, January 3, 1865. (Received 9.40 a. in.) Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, M~{jor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, January 3, 186510 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have seen my chief quartermaster at Fortress Monroe, whom I had ordered here for consultation on another matter. I think the boats will not be ready at Fortress Monroe till to-morrow morning. Is that so understood by you? Shall we move at once? B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 3, 18656 p. m. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Army of the James: Order Colonel Dodge to report to Major-General Terry to accompany his command as quartermaster, and remain with it until he is relieved by General Terry, when he will return to the Army of the James. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 1. ) In the Field, January 3, 1865. Snrg. George Suckley is hereby announced as medical director of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina, in place of Surg. Charles McCormick, relieved by orders from the War Department. By command of Major-General Entler: ED. W. SMITH. Assistant Adjutant- General Page 25 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 JANUARY 3, 186510.30 a. m. Major-General TERRY: You were to be ready for going on board to-morrow morning. I think you had better get down during the day. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- 4~enera 1, Commanding. CiTY PoINT, VA., January 3, 1865. Maj. Gen. A. H. TERRY, Commanding Expedition: The expedition intrusted to your command has been fitted out to renew the attempt to cal)ture Fort Fisher, N. C., and Wilmington ulti- mately, if the fort falls. You will then proceed, with as little delay as possible, to the naval fleet lying oft Cape Fear River, and report the arrival of yourself and command to Rear-Admiral I). I). Porter, coin- - manding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron. It is exceedingly desir- able that the most coniplete understanding should exist between yourself and the naval commander. I suggest, therefore, that you consult with Admiral Porter freely, and get from him the part to be l)erforllled by each branch of the public service so that there may be unity of action. It would be well to have the whole programme laid down in writing. I have served with Admiral Porter, and know that you can rely on his judgment and his nerve to undertake what he proposes. I would, therefore, defer to hirii as much as is consistent with your own resl)onsibilities. The first object to be attained is to get a firm position ou the spit of land on which Fort Fisher is built, from whi cli you can operate against that fort. You want to look to the practicability of receiving your sui)plies, and to defending yourself against sul)erior forces sent against you by any of the avenues left open to the enemy. If such a position can be obtained the siege of Fort Fisher will not be abandoned until its reduction is accomplished or another plan of cain- paign is ordered from these headquarters. My own views are, that if you effect a landing, the navy ought to run a portion of their fleet into Cape Fear River, whilst the balance of it operates on the outside. Land forces cannot invest Fort Fisher, or cut it oft from supplies or re-enforce. ments, whilst the river is in possession of the enemy. A siege train will be loaded on vessels and sent to Fort Monroe, in readiness to be sent to you if required. All other supplies can be drawn from Beanfort as you need them. Keep the fleet of vessels with you until your position is assured. When you find they can be spared order them back, or such of them as you can spare, to Fort Monroe, to report for orders. In case of fidlure to effect a landing bring your command back to Beanfort, and report to these headquarters for further instructions. You will not debark at Beaufort until so directed. General Sheridan has beemi ordered to send a division of troops to Baltimore and place them on sea-going vessels. These troops will be brought to Fort Mon- roe, and kept there on the vessels until you are heard from. Should yoa require them they will be sent to you. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 26 26 N. AND SE. VA., N. 0., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. SPECIAL ORDERS, } HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURUll ARMY CORPS, January 3, 1865. * * * * * * * 7. During the absence of a portion of the Second Division, under command of Brigadier-General Ames, the detachment of the Second Division remaining behind will be organized by Brigadier-General Devens and attached to the Third Division. Brigadier-General Devens will immediately assume command of that })ortion of the line occupied by the Second Division and will picket that portion of the line now picketed by the Second Division. By command of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: THEODORE READ, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 24m ARMY CORPS, No.2. In the Field, Va., January 3,1865. 1. The Second Brigade of this division will be prepared to move at 11 a. m. this day, with cooked rations up to the night of the 7th instant, forty rounds of ammunition, knapsacks, and shelter-tents. No horses will- be taken, and officers will take as little baggage as possible. * * * * * * - * 4. First Lieut. A. T. Stearns, Two hundred and sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, is hereby detailed as acting aide-dc-camp on the staft~ of the brigadier-general commanding. 5. Second Lient. George C. Snyder, One hundred and ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, is hereby detailed as acting aide-dc-camp on the staff of the brigadier-general commanding. By order of Brig. Gen. J. H. Hawley: P. A. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND Div., TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY Coups, In the Field, Va., January 3, 1865. Lient. A. K. TILTON Acting Commissary of Subsistence, Third Brigade, Second Div., 24th Ar~~y Corps, Jones Landing, Va.: The troops of the late Wilmington expedition are ordered to move from camp at 11 a. m. Be iii readiness. Respectfully, yours, CHAS. A. CARLETON, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR, ~ HDQRS. THIRD DIVISIoN, 25TH ARMY CORPS, No. 2. In the Field, Va., January 3, 1865. The designated regiments of this division will move to Bermuda Landing by brigades, and bivouac there as soon as they have received their rations, in accordance with previous instructions. But little officers baggage and no horses will be taken, or, if taken, will be left at Bermuda Landing. The sick of each reginient will be left in charg Page 27 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 27 of their respective camps. Col. G. W. Shurtleff, Fifth U. S. Colored Troops, will remain in charge of the camps of the Third Brigade. Col. J. W. Ames, commanding Second Brigade, will designate a suitable officer, a sick one if possible, to remain in charge ofthe camps of the Second Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. D. Bates will remain in command of all the detachments of the division remaiuing. All commanding officers of detachments will report to him. All axes in the command will be taken. Brigade commanders will report when they start. By command of Brig. Gen. C. J. Paine: SOLON A. CARTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EASTERN VIRGINIA, Norfolk, Va., January 3, 1865. Col. GEORGE W. LEWIS, Third New York Caralry: COLONEL: The brigadier-general. commanding directs that during the temporary absence of Brigadier-General Vogdes you assume com- inand of the defenses of Norfolk and Portsmouth, by virtue of seniority. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, WICKHAM HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. WINCHESTER, VA., January 3, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: There is nothing going on down here except a big snow- storm. There is no organized enemy in this Valley nearer than ninety-two miles from my picket-line. The signal officer at Greencastle must be mistaken. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, VA., January 3, 1865. (Received 9.20 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The following is the disposition of the troops under my immediate command: The Nineteenth Army Corps is at Stephensons Depot, with one brigade at Summit Point and one brigade at. Wimichester. One division of cavalry is on the Romney road west of Winchester; omme division on the Berryville pike not far from where it crosses the Ope- quon; two brigades of cavalry at Clifton, near Summit Point; one strong brigade at Lovettsville, Loudoun County. The troops and horses are micarly all covered for the winter, and without expense to the Gov- ernment. The weather has beeui very bad since the 10th of December. Snow has covered the ground since that time, and it has been very cold. The small division of General Crooks command was, on hi~ rep- resentation, sent to cover the railroad from Martinsburg westward. I have nothing new to report except the constant reports that a ver Page 28 28 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. large number of the troops sent from the Valley by Early to Peters- burg deserted and have gone to their homes. Some few of them came in under General Grants order, and report a very gloomy state of affairs in rebeldom. P. II. SHERIDAN, JIh~or- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 3, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Have the batteries yet started for Camp Barry l P. H. SHERIDAN, ]IiIiajor- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 3, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: The batteries started promptly this morning for Camp Barry, with escort, as ordered. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. NEW YORK, January 3, 1865. Brevet Major-General MEIGS, (Received 1 r~. in.) Quartermasterr General: There are but few steamers available here at present. The Ericsson draws over twenty feet of water, loaded, and will carry 1,200 mcii. The Rapidan draws fourteen of water, and will carry about 1,000 men. These are the only vessels I know of not under charter. The United States and Cassandra are loading for Fort Monroe, and will sail on Thursday; they will carry 800 men each, and draw some sixteen feet of water. The Enterprise is expected here to-day from Fort Monroe. But these vessels are very much needed for services connected with this depot. STEWART VAN VLIET, Brigadier- General and Quartermaster. NEW YORK, January 3, 1865. Brevet Major-General MEIGS, (Received 5.30 p. in.) Quartermaster-General: Can also obtain the Suwo Nada] ,200 men, and sixteen feet loa(led; she is coaled, and can start in twenty-four hours. Another steamer, the Qriental, is Cxl)ectcd to-morrow morning; she can carry 1,000 men. Does the Ericsson draw too much water%~ She is being got ready. S. VAIN VLIET, Brigadier- General and Quartermaster Page 29 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 29 CITY POINT, VA., January 4, 18G5. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: I am constrained to request the removal of Maj. Gem B. F. Butler from the command of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina. I do this with reluctance, bat the good of the service requires it. Iii my absence General Butler necessarily commands, and there is a lack of confidence felt in his military ability, making him an unsafe coii- mander for a large army. His administration of the affairs of his department is also objectionable. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT, CONFIDENTIAL.] . January 4, 1865. [General U. S. GRANT:] MY DEAR SIR: To-day we received dispatches from Porter, dated the 29th uJtimo, stating that the enemy are removing the guns from Fort Fisher, preparatory to changing the arrangement of their defenses. The Philadelphia Inquirer of to-day has all the information contained in the documents that have just come from Richmond through General Butlers headquarters. I think last summer, after my visit to you with General Gfllnmore, that you were under the impression that one of us gave l)ublicity to the object of our visit. I trusted to time to enable you to discover all the leaks in the vicinity of your headquarters. Mr. Blair, sr., alone, will leave Washington Saturday, and arrive oft City Point about noon, in the screw steamer Don, Captain Parker, coin- manding the Potomac Flotilla. As he goes by consent of the Presi- dent, at the request of Mr. Davis, I ask for Mr. Blair that you will make arrangements to get him through comfortably as early as prac- ticable, and as secretly. I have suggested to him to lay-to off City Point, and let an officer go on shore from the vessel and receive your directions as to the best method of going through. The Don cami go up as far as desired and remain until Mr. Blair returns, and I will direct Captain Parker to report to you and receive any directions you may give. Please acknowledge the receipt of this letter by telegraph. I got the President to put into the old capitol the man who caused to be published the Wilmington expedition. Yesterday the Baltimore American sent me word that they had information that another expe- (lition was fitting out. I sent them word that tIme Goverimment would deal very summarily with the first party who published it. To-night Mr. Gobright, the agent of the Associated Press, informed me that he had such news from Hampton Roads, but had suppressed it. I am, muost truly, sir, your obedient servant, G. V. FOX. The country will not forgive us for another failure at Wilmington, and I have so informed Porter. CITY POINT, VA., January 4, 1865. Rear-Admiral D. D. PORTER, Commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron: Your letter brought by the hands of Lieutenant Porter is received. Time instructions to Generai Terrywere given before its ~eeeipt, but yo Page 30 30 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. will see that General Terry has not only been instructed to consult with but to be guided by yonr counsel, as far as is consistent with his responsibilities. In my letter of instructions, and also in my letter to you written at the same time, I state that a division of troops number- ing from 4,000 to 5,000 men will be in readiness at Fort Monroe to sail to you at an hours notice. In addition to this, if it becomes necessary to our success, I will send all the men that can be used. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 3. City Point, Va., January 4, A-~G5. I. Lient. (Jol. C. B. Comstock, aide-de-camp, will report to Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry, ai~d accompany him as chief engineer of the expedition under his command. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant.General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant 4djutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 4, 1865. General INGALLS, Headquarters Armies before Richmond, City Point, Va.: The Thomas A. Scott will arrive at Fort Monroe to-day with troops; can be spared to go to Baltimore. She, with the three detached from Fort Monroe, and the Suwo Nada, on her way from New York, will be able to move 4,000 men. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General, U. S. Army, and Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 4, 1865. Bvt. Maj. J. C. BATES, Eleventh Infantry, Acting Aide-de- Camp: MAJOR: Under an arrangement entered into between Lieutenant- General Grant, commanding Armies of the United States, and General Lee, commanding Army of Northern Virginia, the major-general corn- mnanding directs that you proceed to-morrow morning, under a flag of truce, to the enemys lines on the Squirrel Level road and deliver the remains of the late Capt. U. B. Davis, Fortieth Virginia Regiment, to the officer appointed by General Lee to receive them. Having per- formed the duty herein indicated, you will return with your party to these headquarters. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- G~nera Page 31 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 31 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, BATTALION U. S. ENGINEERS, January 4, 1865. Bvt. Col. J. C. DUANE, Chief Engineer, Army of the Potomac: SIR: I have the honor to report as follows on the condition of the line: The works are in good condition; several need slight repairs, which will be attended to immediately. The infantry line is also in good condition; that to the left of Fort Keene is finished, and the battery is nearly completed; the work is roughly done, but is strong. The abatis is approaching completion, and will be finished this week; it is well fastened down, but is hardly thick enough. I will have it strength- ened before leaving it. It is difficult procuring good material. The abatis in front of the Fifth and Sixth Vermont, to the left of Fort Con- ahey, has been covered with brush and other rubbish, luaking it of 110 acconnt. It has been in this condition for the last ten days, and is an evident piece of neglect on the part of the regimental commanders. For the magazine in Fort Howard I shall need 200 feet of lumber. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. W. HOWELL, First Lieutenant, Corps of Engineers. [First indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF CHlEF ENGINEER, January 4, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the within report for the information of the commanding general. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. DUANE, Major of Engineers and Breret Colonel, U. S. Army. [Second indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 4, 1865. Respectfully referred to the commanding officer of the Sixth Corps, whose attention is invited to so much of the within report as relates to the condition of the works along the portion of the line held by the Sixth Corps. Please return. By command of Major-General Parke: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Third indorsementI HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, January 6, 1865. Respectfully returned. The proper officers have ~e~n instructed to see that the abuses corn- plaiued of ~re ren~eclied. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Contmandin~ Page 32 32 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HDQRS. DEFENSES OF CITY POINT AND ENGINEER BRIG., January 4, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Battery II, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, having left these defenses to joiu the Sixth Corps, leaves one of my forts entirely without artillery and dimiiiishes the armament of another. I would respectfully inquire if another battery is to be sent to replace it, or whether I shall make other (lisposition of my remaining gulls, which, before the withdrawal of the Rhode Island battery, only eqnaled what I considered necessary for the defenses here. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BENHAM, Brigadier. General, Commanding. [First indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 4, 1865. Respectfully ref~rred to the chief of artillery for his remarks. By command of Major-General Parke: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Second indorsenient. I ARTILLERY hEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 5, 1865. There is no field artillery available to replace Battery H, First Rhode Jslai~d,in the City Point defenses. Additional guns being required to arm a new battery on the front of the Sixth Coips, and all the artillery which accompanied the corps having been left behind on its return, it was necessary to transfer some other battery to the new position. Respectfully returned to headquarters Army of the Potomac: HENRY J. HUNT, Brevet illajor- General, Chief of Artillery. [Third indorsenient. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 5, 1865. Respectfully returned to Brigadier-General Benham. At present no battery can be sent to replace Battery II, Rhode Jsland Artillery, and the best arrangement possible must be made with the guns remaining in the defenses of City Point. By command of Major-General Parke: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERn SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. (Received 10.30 a. ni.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Two deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A~ A, UUMPHREYS, Mojor. (ienerc4 Page 33 CHAP. LVIIJ.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 33 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Brig. Gen. ~. WJLLJAM~, Janitary 4, 186510.55 p. m. Assistant Adjutant-General, Ar my of the Potomac: General Gibbon has not arrived yet, noi do I hear anything from him. Js it necessary for General Miles to wait until he returns? A. A. IIUMPIIHEYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 4, 186511 p. m. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Commanding & cond Corps: The commanding general wonld prefer to have General Miles await the return of General Gibbon, or the arrival of General Webb, who leaves New York to-morrow to join the army. Is it very important to General Miles that he should leave at once? S. WJLLJA MIS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 4, 186511.50 p. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Ar my of the Potomac: General Miles can postpone his arrangements by writing. A. A. HUMPHHEYS, Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HD QRS. ARTY. BRJcf., 2D ARMY CORPS, No. 1. January 4, 1865. Maj. F. M. Edgell, First New Hampshire Artillery, is hereby assigned to duty at these headquarters and announced as assistant to the chief of artillery, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Hazard: U. D. EDDY, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvIsIoN, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROS5, Assistant Adjutant- General, AS~econd Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to request that Bvt. Brig. Gen. John Ram- sey be assigned to the command of the Third Brigade of this division, he having been assigned by the President in accordance with his brevet rank. General Ramsey has been identified with that brigade since its fou~idatiou in 1861 and is an efficient and energetic officer, Very respectfully, your obedie!llt servant, G. MOTT, I$r~i-wt Ma~~or- q~r~r4, 3 R RYOL XIN1~ PT I Page 34 34 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 4. 1865. (Received 9.35 a. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: Nothing of importance to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, M~jor- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. (Received 4 p. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: There will be a little delay in sending up the paper just received from yon, but it will be sent back as soon as I can possibly get the information. The report was sent during my absence, and I dont know why the number of companies was not put in. General Wright was somewhat inj ured this morning by a fall from his horse, out on the picket-line. It seemed serious at first, but I think he is doing well now. C. A. WHITTIER, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. [JANUARY 4, 1865]5.45 p. m. Major- General WRIGHT: GENERAL: I am exceedingly sorry to hear of your mishap, and sincerely hope you are not seriously injure(1. Please let us know how you are getting along. Truly, yours, JNO. G. PARKE. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. (Received 620 p. in.) Maj. Gen. JOHN G. PARKE, Commanding: General Wright is now sleeping, and I will not awake him to read your kind note. It is impossible to tell now the injury. He has been in great pain, and the doctors say~ a rib or two may be broken, but think not. The shock may be the worst part. They cait tell in the morning. Should any change take place I will notify General Wil- liams. CHAS. A. WHITTIER, Major and Acting Assistant A4~jutant-General. CHIEF QUARTERMASTERS OFFICE, ARMY OF THE JAMES, Bermuda Hundred, Va., January 4, 1865. Col. R. C. WEBSTER, Chief Quartermaster, Fort Monroe: Please send me a full and complete list of the boats that are coming up the river to transport 8,500 men and two batteries, when they left Fort Monroe, and the amount of coal and water each has on board. I shall be down when the embarkation is complete. I have the list Cap- tain James sent General Ingalls; it is not sufficient to transport tli Page 35 CHAP. Lviii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 35 men comfortably. I have sent 1,400 men for the Atlantic on steamers Colyer and Georgia. If possible, send the Ben De Ford for headquarters boat. Let me know all the particulars of your actions at Forth onroe. GEG. S. DODGE, Colonel and Chief Quartermaster. CITY POINT, VA., January 4, 1865. Maj. Gen. A. H. TERRY, Commanding Expedition against Fort Fisher: A letter received from Admiral Porter since your former instruc- tions were delivered asks that the transport fleet may be assembled at Beaufort, N. C. As the collection of so many vessels loaded with troops at that point would be likely to advertise to the enemy the object of the expedition, I think it will be desirable for you to run in with your own vessel and consult with Admiral Porter, leaving the remainder of the vessels outside. As you go without the Naval Brigade, you will require the assistance of the navy, both in men and boats, to aid you in landing troops and supplies. I have not a doubt but it will afford the naval commander pleasure to furnish these, but it is a subject you will want to have understood before leaving Beaufort. On your arrival off Fort Fisher, especially if a landing is effected, you may find yourself deficient in many things you will want. Such of them as Beaufort will supply send there directly for; for the balance send to Fort Monroe, communicating from that point directly with these headquarters by telegraph. Dnring the operations of the expedition l)laced in your com- mand you will in all official matters communicate directly with these headquarters, unless otherwise ordered. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- general. HEADQUARTERS ARMIEs OF THE UNIT~D STATES, January 4, 1865. General TERRY, Bermuda: The lieutenant-general desires nie to ask how many steamers have gone down and how many are now at Bermuda. What fraction of your force is aboard ~ C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, January 4, 1865. General TERRY, Bermuda: The hospital steamers fitted up are at Savannah. You will have to make the best arrangements you can, using in emergency the cabins of the transports which take the troops. You should supply yourself with the Napoleon ammunition neededsay, 300 rounds per gun. By command of General Grant: C. B. COMSTOCK. Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide.de- Camp Page 36 36 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. General J. W. TURNER: A rebel deserter who came into our lines last night reports that Ker- shaws division was ready to move with three days rations. By some mistake the deserter was turned over to Brigadier-General Birney, Twenty-fifth Army Corps. CHAS. DEVENS, l3rigadier. General. ii have sent for him. J. W. T. U. S. STEAMER DON, Saint Inigoes, Md., January 4, 1865. Hon. G. V. Fox, (Received 6.50 p. in.) Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.: Will you please give an order to work day and night on the vessels of the flotilla at the Navy-Yard. I need them. The rebels are up to some deviltry on the Rappahannock. I captured there this morning two barrels of powder and two torpedoes, and I learn from various sources that a torpedo expedition is being organized for an attack in this quarter. FOXHALL A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. SAINT INIGOES, January 4, 1865. Hon. G. V. Fox, (Received 6.55 i~. in.) Assistant Secretary of the Navy: Telegram just received. Will leave immediately for Washington. F. A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Potomac Flotilla. WINCHESTER, January 4, 18G5Gp. m. (Received 6.55 p. ni.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I transmit the following information obtained from deserter that left Richmond last Wednesday, aiid just arrived at this place. It may corroborate information which you have already received. Gordons, Pegramns, and Grimes divisions went from the Valley to Petersburg, and went into the trenches. Pegram caine out to Gordonsville when the cavalry was in that vicinity, then returned to Richmond, and all three of the divisions went south of Richmond. Whartons division is at Fishersville, between Waynesborough and Staunton; Rosser is at Lexington; Lomax, on the Rapidan River. The divisions that went south lost very heavily by desertion, it is reported that there is aboilt two months supplies in Richmond, and that they are preparing for a siege, and that the Supplies coming are flon~ and bacon, and that they are all eQmlng from the eonth, P. H. SHERIDAN, Major. Qener~l, Comrnandin~ Page 37 ~hiAI~. LYITI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 37 GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 2. ) January 4, 1865. The First Brigade, Veteran Reserve Corps, is hereby announced as a separate brigade, under the provisions of General Orders, No. 251, War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, August 31, 1864. By command of Maj. Gen. C. C. Augur: C. II. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. Colonel GANSEVOORT, Commanding at Balls Hill, Va.: Mr. Dennis Ormsby, who resides near Dranesville, informs me that he knows of about thirty or forty guerrillas who stay habitually in and about Dranesyille, and that lie knows of many of their stopping places. He offers to conduct a party to capture them. He will come to you to-morrow. I wish you to make arrangements to have a party to go ont to-morrow night for the purpose of taking or destroying this gang. Mr. Oriusby will accompany it. Select a good officer to command, and to be with him and Mr. Ormsby together befo that all is well understood and arranged. re they start, and see Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISLoN, NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, January 4, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of $taff, Middle Mititary Division: SIR: I will report in person at your headquarters to-morrow morning at 8 oclock. C. GROVER, Brevet Mc~jor- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 4, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN: In pursuance of your instructions, 1 totally inhibited the passing of citizens and goods across the Potomac. I am to-day advised by the provost-marshal at Berlin that General Devin is giving such permits. I advise you of his action, it seeming to me to be without authofity. I think the power over trade should not be exercised by General Devin, as it would only tend to complicate the subject with my subordinates, whose action, when exclusively under my control, I can be responsible for, holding them strictly to your wishes on the subject. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 38 38 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. tVIII. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DivIsIoN, January 4, 1865. General STEVENSON: No trade xviii be permitted across the Potomac east of Harpers Ferry and in the Department of West Virginia except by my order, and I will give instructions to that effect to General Devin. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WINCHESTER, January 4, 1865. Major.General WALLACE, Baltimore: Are there any recruits for that portion of the First Delaware Cavalry now at Monrovia, Md. ~ I would like to order it down to Muddy Run, on the Potomac, to join the battalion of cavalry now on duty there nnder General Angur. P. H. SHERIDAN. Major- General. BALTIMORE, January 4, 1865. General SHERIDAN: There are no recrnits for the First Delaware Cavalry. I hope you will let me retain what I have of that regiment. It is about all the cavalry I have, and it is very necessary. I have only one other com- pany, and it is weak and of little nse. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 5, 186511 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I will start in a few minutes for Fortress Monroe to see the fleet sail from there, and to complete instructions if anything further should be required. It will get to sea this afternoon. When the troops sent by Sheridan are embarked please order them to rendezvous at Fort Monroe and report by telegraph to me Thr further orders. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 5, 186512.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Fortress Monroe: Your instructions will be given to Sheridan. I expect to leave here this afternoon for Fortress Monroe, and thence to Savannah witli Col- lector Draper. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 39 CHAP. LV1II.] 39 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 5, 18658 p. m. - Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, U. S. Army, City Point, Va.: Can you not possibly go down the coast for a few days I think we have a fine sea steamer at Norfolk, and I will accompany you. it seems to be worth a few honrs of the directing mind. C. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. CITY POINT, VA., January 5, 186510.30 p. m. (Received 10.55 p. in.) Brig. Gen. A. B. DYER, Chi~f of Ordnance: Please have fifteen Coehorn mortars, with implements complete, at Fortress Monroe at the earliest moment, and notify me how soon to expect them there. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 5, 1865. (Received 9 p. in.) Bvt. lVIaj. Gen. lvi. C. MEI~S, Quartermaster- General: We have only some tour days of grain and two of hay in these armies, less grain than at former period. There is none in store at this depot. General Grant has ordered the animals to be pnt on half rations. This is the time of all others when we should have plenty. I beg the shipmnent may be hastened here if possible. RUFUS IN~GALLS, Brigadier- General and Chief Quartermaster. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. C., January 5, 1865. Brig. Gen. R. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, Armies Operating against Richmond: GENERAL: The inclosed copy of a letter * from General Sherman gives information in regard to his success in foraging his army and supplying it with horses and mules during his late operations, which, it is believed, will be of interest to you. One of the most difficult tasks of the quartermasters department is to supply forage for the great number of animals of the armies while resting iu advanced positions. Cannot a system of foraging on the borders or in the rebel country be adopted which will relieve the Government of a large portion of the heavy expense of purchase and transportation of forage~ Cannot the cavalry and trains be camped, in many cases, at some distance from the main body of the army, in a country which will supply them with * See Vol. XLIV, p. 807 Page 40 4() N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. a large portion of their forage, and yet within call and supporting dis- tance of the infantry, changing the camps from time to time as the forage is exhausted ~ I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant (MIS. THOMAS, Assistant Qua rtermaster- General, Brevet Brigadier- General. [Indorseinent.] OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, January 9, 1865. Respectfully referred to General John A. Rawlins, chief of staff Lieutenant-General Grant, for consideration in connection with my letter of this date on the subject of forage. My reply will be sent to General Meigs so soon as I receive reports from the chief quartermasters of corps and commanding officers of troops who have operated on our flanks. It is surprising that General Thomas is not aware of this difference between our situation here and that of General Sherman, who is and has been in the open country of the enemy where there are supplies of all kinds. The rebel army in our front can scarcely procure fodder and grain enough in Virginia to keep their own horses from dying. Whenever these armies could pro- cure fodder, grain, or grass even, the opportunity has never been lost. Our quartermasters and commanding officers have always understood its importance. If we could send out foraging parties, or our cavalry and trains, as suggested by General Thomas, we could find no forage now. If this be practicable it can be done only on orders from superior authority. RUFUS INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, Armies Operating against Richmond, Va. OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHALGENERAL ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, J. C. BABCOCK, City Point, January 5, 1865. Headquarters Army of the Potomac: I. have deserters to-day from Picketts division and from the Local Defense Troops on the north side. There is no change in Picketts brigades, nor, as far as 1 can judge, on the north side where Field holds the line next the river; then the Local Defense Tro ops or city battalions and the reserves, all commanded by G. W. Custis Lee, and Kershaw toward tlzfe Darbytown road. I hear nothing of Hokes return. Our news from Washington is that Early is at Staunton. SHARPE, C~olonel. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS Brig. Gen. ~. WILLIA~IS, January 5, 1865. (Received 10.20 a. in.) A ssistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command, and nothing of inter- est occurred since last report. Two deserters came into our lines daring the night. A. A. ITUMPHREYS, Major- General Page 41 OHM. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 41 HEADQUARTERS SECOND Conps, General S. WILLIAMS, January 5, 186512 m. Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: I desire to improve the picket-line of the corps on the left and rear in the vicinity of.the Sqnirrel Level and Vaughan roads, by throwing it forward to the edge of the open field of Cnmmings. A. A. HUMPHliEYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQITARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Major-General HUMPHREYS, January 5,~ 186512.15 p. m. Commandinq & eond Corps: The major-general commanding has no objection to the change you propose in your telegram of 12 m. S. F. BAIRSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND Coups, General S. WILLIAMS, January 5, 1865.12.45 p. m. Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: The two deserters reported as having come into our lines this morn- ing turmi out to be a young man who belongs to the Third Virginia Cav- alry, Wickhams brigade, now in the Shenandoah Valley, he having been detached to get horses some three months ago about his home, seven miles west of Reams Station. He has brought his wife in with him; both young persons. They are more properly reftigees, and should have been detained upon the picket-line; but these exceptional cases do appear to be beyond the discretion of the picket officers. Shall they be sent forward ~ A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 5, 1865. COMMANDING- OFFICER SECOND CORPS: The comnnianding general says you can send the two persons alluded to in your dispatch of 12.45 p. m. to the provost-marshal-general. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST I)IYISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, Maj. SEPT. CARNCROSS, January 5, 1865. Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: I have the honor to report that, in changing the camps of the differ- ent regiments of my command, in order to bring them in line with their proper brigades, the following changes were made in commanders of the garrisons of forts: Col. ID. F. Burke, Eighty-eighth New Yor Page 42 42 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LOHAP. LVIII. Volunteers, Fort Gregg; Capt. N. P. Lane, Sixty-sixth New York VoL unteers, Fort Sampson; Capt. James F. Weaver, One hundred and forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Fort Cummings. I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON A. MiLES, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 5, 1865. Maj. SEPT. CARNUROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following statements with reference to absentees from this division: There are now absent from the several regiments of this command and in hospitals at the North, 5,576 men. Of these 2 were sent away in 1861, 39 in 1862, 234 in 1863, 1,446 between January 1, 1864, and August 1, 1864, making 1,721 who have been absent over five months, and 1,694 who were sent away between August 1,1864, and January 1, 1865, making 3,415 men, of whom 1 have a list of names and the hospitals where they now are; besides these, there are 2,161 men whose names I have, but whose whereabouts are unknown, the surgeons in whose hospitals they are having failed to report them, making an aggregate, as above, of 5,576 men. I therefore most respectfully request that a boardto consist of Maj. N. Church, Twenty-sixth Michigan Volunteers, Surg. James E. Pomfret, Seventh New York Volunteer Artillery, and Capt. John S. MeEwan, Seventh New York Volunteer Artillery (of the division staff)be authorized to visit the different hospitals throughout the North as examiners, with a view to the return to duty of such men of this division as may be improperly remaining in said hospitals. The greater number of the men are in hospitals in the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania~ and New York. I believe that by this means at least one-half of the men thus absent will be returned to the command. \Tery respeetfuily, your obedient servant, NELSON A. MILES, Brevet Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIxTn ARMY CORPS, January 5, 1865. (Received 9.30 a. in.) Brigadier-General WILLIAMS: Nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 5, 1865. (Received 9.30 a. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS: Authority for the discharge of the loaded muskets of this corps is requested for to-day. Will you please designate the hour ~ General Wright is in considerable pain this morning, and is hardly able to move in bed. The doctors have not examined him to-day. C. A. WHITTIER, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 43 CHAP. LvIILj CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 48 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS SiXTH CORPS, No. 2. January 5, 1865. An officer will be detailed by the commander of each division to take charge of the intrenchments of his division. This officer will make frequent inspections of the line and report to the division commander any neglect that he may observe in carrying out the order for the pres- ervation of the abatis, revetments, magazines, & c. He will also report every week to these headquarters and to the officer of the engineer battalion (who has charge of the intrenchment line) the condition of the portions of the defense in his charge. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, Hn QRS. FIRST DIVIsION, SI& TH CORPS, No. 7. January 5, 1865. Brigade commanders will at once take the most effective measures to render the picket-line in front of their respective commands as strong and as defensible as possible. To this end the timber will be slashed and abatis constructed in front of the line in such a manner as to render any attempted approach of the enemy to our lines, either by night or by day, impracticable. From each brigade there will be selected by the brigade commander a commissioned officer to take charge of the above work until it shall have been completed. The name of the officel so selected and assigned will be reported to these headquarters as soon thereafter as practicable; and when the work in each brigade front is finished the fact will be reported to the command- ing general of the division. By command of Brevet Major-General Wheaton: A. M. TYLER, Captain and A eting Assistant Ad utant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, January 5, 18659 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.: I have made my report to Lieutenant-General Grant of the operations of the army in conjunction with the navy against Wilmington. Gen- eral Grant thinks it should be published, and will forward it with that request. I respectfully request leave to have it published. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. JANUARY 5, 18651.30 p.m. General BUTLER, Fort Monroe: I send the following information: iluntons brigade relieved Corses brigade on Ferreros front. Corse has come over to this side of river. Three regiments passed through Richmond in cars Sunday; said they were going south. JINO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff Page 44 44 N. AND Sb. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. Lviii. CITY POINT, January 5, 18659.50 a. m. General ABBOT, Broadway Landing: General Grant desires you to come to his headquarters immediately. T. S. BOWERS, Ass ista ut Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, January 5, 1865. General ABBOT: Come to these headquarters immediately. You have beeii waited for all day. Answer. JNO. A. IRAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, Jan nary 5, 1865. (Received 6.40 p. in.) General WILLIAMS: Is General Abbot at your headquarters ~ If so, please direct him to conic to General Grants headquarters immediately. He has been waited for all day. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant A cijutant- General. HEADQUARTEI~S ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 5, 18657 p. m. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Armies of the United States, City Point: General Abbot was heie this afternoon, and Iett about 4 p. in. to return to his headquarters, near Broadway Landing. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 5, 1865. Captain HATFIELD, or COMMANDING I OFFICER], Broadway: General Abbot left here by train at 4 p. in. for his headquarters. Telegraphic order received for him to go to General Grants headquar- ters. HENRY J. HUNT, Brevet Major- General. Original memorandum for siege train for siege of Fort Fisher. SIEGE AND ENGINBER TRAIN. Four 100-pounder Parrotts: twenty Coehorn mortars; twenty 30- pounder Parrotts, or 4.5-inch rifles; stout flat-boat for lauding; portable forges, blacksmiths tools and iron, assorted sizes; safety fuse; 30,00 Page 45 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 45 feet B. M. white pine or cypress, 4 by 4 boards- 10 000 pine plank, 3-inch; 5,000 feet B.- M. pine plank, feet B. M. 2-inch; 5,000 run- ning feet 3 by 4 joists; 500 running feet 6 by 6 joists; three kegs six-penny nails, five kegs eight-penny, three kegs ten-penny; 200 pounds cut spikes; one dozen hand-saws; half dozen adzes; two dozen nail hatchets; 1 set framing chisels; two carpenters chests com- plete; 10,000 sand-bags; hoop iron for 500 ~abions; six carpenters steel squares; two dozen chalk lines and chalk; rope; tracing cords; augers, Babcock; three Schmalder compasses; half dozen tape lines; two sets drawing instruments, with scales; drawing paper, linen; India ink, & c; three masons levels; 500 artillerymen, and company of engi- neer soldiers with their own tools; land transportation. Received January 5, 1865, about 6.15 p. in., from General Rawlins, chief of staff of General Grant. IT. L. A[BBOT]. HnQRs. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 5, 18654.10 p. m. General DEVENS Twenty-fouhh Army Corps: The cavafry report the enemy moving around on our right. Be pre- pared to send your reserve forces down the New Market road to the relief of Signal Hill and Camp Holly redoubts. Are these works well manned ~ Apprise them of the approach of the enemy. JOHN W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field Va Col. J. C. BRISCOE, , -, January 5, 1865. 199th Pennsylrania Volunteers: COLONEL: The brigadier-general commanding desires that you at your earliest convenience examine the line of defenses from the right of the breast-work iu front of your camp to the Kiugslaud road and Deep Bottom front (not including the work immediately at the bridge- head), and make a rough sketch of their general course and extent, indicating the number of guns in each redoubt, the abatis (where there is any), the ravines, & c. He does not wish you to take the trouble to elaborate your draft; a sketch similar to that which you drew of the corps picket-line for Brevet Major-General Terry will answer the pur- pose. 1 am, respectfully, & c., P. A.. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, Broadway Landing, Va,, January 5, 186512 p. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. FERRERO, Commanding Lines Bermuda hundred: GENERAL: I send Major Cook an order which removes Company U- from your lines and makes other changes. It is issued in accordance with verbal directions from Lieutenant-General Grant, which admit o Page 46 46 N.. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. no delay. I have provided for the needs of the artillery served by Company G by a detail from Company F. Perhaps a few more infantry will be rendered necessary at Fort IDutton. I am, general, yours, in great haste, HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY PoINT, January 5, 186512.20 p. m. Brig. Gen. I. VO~DES, Portsmouth: I will be in Norfolk this evening. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS EXPEDiTiONARY FORCES, No. 1. Steamship McClellan, January 5, 1865. I. In obedience to Special Orders, No. 2, headqnarters Armies of the United States, current series, the undersigned assumes command of the troops selected for the present expedition. II. The officers named below, viz: Col. George S. Dodge, U. S. Volun- teers, chief quartermaster; Surg. Norman S. Barnes, U. S. Volunteers, medical director; Surg. A. J. H. Buzzell, Third New Hampshire Volun- teers, medical inspector; Capt. Adrian Terry, U. S. Volunteers, assist- ant adjutant-general; Capt. Charles M. Sampson, U. S. Volunteers, assistant quartermaster; Capt. Charles H. Davis, U. S. Volunteers, chief commissary; Capt. Charles H. Graves, U. S. Volunteers, aide-de- camp; Capt. George F. Towle, Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers, act- ing assistant inspector-general; Capt. A. E. Smith, One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers, aide-de-camp; Capt. R. W Wood- bury, Third New Hampshire Volnnteers, acting ordnance officer; Lieut. F. E. Beardslee, U. S. Army, signal officer; Lient. James M. Bradley, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops, chief of ambulance corpsare announced as on the staff of these headquarters, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. III. The steamship McClellan will be the flag-ship of the expedition. ALFRED H. TERRY, Brevet Miajor- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, No. 2. January 5, 1865. The vessels containing the troops of this expedition will leave Hamp- ton Roads precisely at 4 a. m. to-morrow. As far as possible the ves- sels containing the troops of each division will keep together and the whole fleet will follow the flag-ship, which will carry red, white, and green lights at the masthead. They will pass out between the capes, and when off Cape Henry the sealed orders which are furnished to the commanding officer on each transport will be opened. The speed of the transports will be as nearly as possible eight knots per hour. By order of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General Page 47 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 47 SEALED ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FonCES, January 5, 1865. COMMANDINc OFFICER OF TROOPS O~ BOARD OF U. S. TRANSPORT ATLANTIC: SIR: The transport fleet will rendezvous twenty-five miles off Beau- fort, N. C. You will immediately proceed to that point and report to the senior officer of the expedition present at the time of your arrival. You will then await further orders. By order of Bvt. Maj. Gem A. II. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR No. 1.J HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, January 5, 1865. The commanding officer oii each transport will keep on hand three days cooked rations, ready to be placed in the haversacks of the men at the time of disembarking. He will also place a guard over the water-casks, and cause the strictest economy to be observed in the use of this important article. By order of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 5, 186510 a. rn. Major-General SHERIDAN: Transports left City Point yesterday for Baltimore sufficient to carry 4,000 infantry. They should reach Baltimore to-day, and will, no doubt, be there in time for the troops. If you do iiot guard against straggling and desertion you will lose many men, as the facilities at Baltimore are great and the business vigorously conducted by bounty brokers. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WINCHESTER, VA., January 5, 18652 p. mu. Hon. E. iVI. STANTON, Secretary of War: - Four thousand troops will be sent from Stephensons Depot at 10 oclock to-morrow. It will require that time to get transportation there. I will take the necessary precaution to prevent desertions, as far as possible. Two of my best scouts have just returned from Staunton. They represent a gloomy state of affairs, and that the common conver- sation is that Virginia will be given up. This information I send for what it is worth. It does not tally with the information received from deserters from Richmond yesterday. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General Page 48 48 N. AND SE. VA:, N. C., W. VA~, MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYHL HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., January 5, 1865. (Received 2.30 P. in.) Briga4ier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Middle Military Division: GENERAL: A number of rebels were captured yesterday (January 4) who were en route to attempt the capture of a train on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad at Adamstown, on information given by a scout employed by these headquarters. There are reasons which make it advisable that these men should be sent to these headquarters, and I request that orders may be issued to Major-General Wallace, in whose custody they are, accordingly. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, January 5, 1865. Major-General AUGUR, - Washington, D. C.: I have directed General Tyler to hold the rebels captured yesterday subject to the orders of Major-General Sheridan. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General, Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 5, 1865. Brevet Major-General EM6RY Commanding Nineteenth Army Corps, Stephensons Depot, Va.: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you have the division of the Nineteejnth Army Corps, commanded by Brevet Major- General Grover, in readiness to embark on the cars at 10 oclock to-mor- row, the 6th, with three days rations. Special instructions will be given to Genei~al Grover from these headquarters as to his destina- tion. All trains and ambulances belonging to this division will be retained at Stephensons Depot until further orders from these head- quarters. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Brevet Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, January 5, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Winchester: I wish authority to send with the train of the Second Division one- Ipif t14~ ~nIffl4i1nitiQu train, W. H. EMORY, Brevet ]ilajor- General, Commanding Page 49 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 49 WINCHESTER, January 5, 18657.30 oclock. Major-General EMORY: The general wishes all the transportation, ambulances, wagons, drivers, & c., of General Grovers division held intact at Stephensons Depot until further orders from these headquarters. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Brigadier-General STEVENSON, January 5, 1865. Commanding District of Harpers Perry: I have just sent instructions to General Devin concerning trade with Loudoun County. Will you send it through to him ~? JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff~ HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 5, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Relieve the Second Eastern Shore Regiment, now on duty at Duf- fields Station, and order it to Baltimore, to report to Major-General Wallace, to be consolidated with the First Eastern Shore, in compliance with Special Orders, No. 449, dated War Department, Adjutant- Generals Office, December 15, 1864. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Brevet Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 5, 1865. General STEVENSON: The commanding officer of Second Eastern Shore Regiment should be directed to report upon his arrival in Baltimore to Major-General Wal- lace. Where is the band? I have not heard anything of it yet. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 5, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH Chief of Staff: Second Eastern Shore leaves at 7 oclock to-morrow morning with orders to report to Maj. Gen. Lew. Wallace. The band went up to-day. Respectfully, - JOHN D. STEVENSON, Briqadier- General. 4 R RVOL XLVI, PT I Page 50 50 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 5, 1865. General STEVENSON: Order the two Maine regiments now at Martinsburg to join the Nineteenth Corps without further delay at Stephensons Depot. By order of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 5, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH: The orders to Maine regiments, at Martinsburg, arid Second Eastern Shore Maryland, at Dufflelds, have been sent. They will move to- morrow. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 5, 1865. Brigadier-General SEWARD, Martinsburg: In accordance with orders from Major-General Sheridan you will order the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine Regiments to join the Nintecuth Army Corps at Stephensons Depot without delay. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURG, January 5, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Telegram received. Will send Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine without delay. Am I to have only the Ninety-first Ohio and battery here~ W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. CUMBERLAND, MD., January 5, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Corndy. Second Infantry Division, Dept. of West Virginia: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that in sending scouting parties into the enemys country they be instructed to arrest such persons from among the prominent citizens as it would be proper to hold as hostages for Union citizens now held in confinement by the rebel Government. These persons will be arrested as far outside our lines as possible, and care will be taken to arrest only such persons as are influential enough to demand consideration at the hands of the Confederate Government. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, RORT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 51 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 51 BALTIMORE, January 5, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: Yesterday, near Sugar Loaf Mountain, north side Potomac, Captain Churchman, of Brigadier-General Tylers command, captured ten rebel soldiers, wearing overcoats of U. S. Army, and believed to be of Mosbys battalion. It is supposed they had designs against the railroad. I have directed General Tyler to hold them, subject to your order. It is thought three of them are officers. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, January 5, 1865. General WALLACE, Baltimore: Send the ten rebels captured by Captain Churchman to General Augurs headquarters, Department of Washington, without delay. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, 1). C., January 5, 186510.10 a. m. Col. R. M. NEWPORT, Chief Quartermaster, Baltimore: Arid, Illinois, General Sedgwick, Victor, and Baltic are ordered from Fort Monroe to Baltimore; should be there this morning. Suwo Nada is on her way from New York. ThesTe vessels are to embark troops sent down by General Sheridan. Let them be inspected. See that they have provisions, water, and coal for fifteen days, and place them in readiness to embark troops with dispatch and with least danger of straggling. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General and Brevet Mc~jor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. MID. DEPT., 8TH ARMY Coups, No. 3. Baltimore, Md., January 5, 1865. The following-named officers are announced as constituting the staff of the major-general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly: Lient. Col. Samuel B. Lawrence, assistant adjutant-general. Capt. Oliver Matthews, assistant adjutant-general. Maj. James R. Ross, aide-dc-camp. Maj. William M. Este, aide-de-can~p. Capt. Dickinson P. Thruston, aide-de-eamp. Maj. W. L. Marshall, judge-advocate. Lient. Col. Lynde Catlin, assistant inspector-general. First Lieut. W. W. Lobdell, First Delaware Cavalry, acting assistant inspector-general. Lieut. Col. Alexander Bliss, quartermaster Page 52 52 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Lieut. Col. Joseph G. Crane, commissary of subsistence. Maj. Josiah Simpson, surgeon, U. S. Army, medical director. Asst. Surg. C. IR. Greenleaf, U. S. Army, assistant to medical director. Bvt. Maj. Charles N. Turnbull, U. S. Army, corps of engineers. Lieut. Col. W. II. French, Second U. S. Artillery, inspector aiid chief of artillery. Lient. Charles L. Isaac, One hundred and fourth New York Volun- teers, acting ordnance officer. Lient. Col. John Woolley, Fifth Indiana Cavalry~ provost-marshal. Capt. W. H. Wiegel, U. S. Volunteers, assistant provost-marshal. Maj. H. W. Wharton, U. S. Army, commissary of musters. Capt. R. H. Offley, First U. S. Jnfantry, assistant commissary of mus- ters. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 6, 18651 p. m. (Received 9.50 p. in.) President A. LINcoLN, - Washington: I wrote a letter to the Secretary of War, which was mailed yesterday, asking to have General Butler removed from command. Learning that the Secretary left Washington yesterday, I telegraph you asking that prompt action may be taken in the matter. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORT MONROE, VA., January 6, 18656.30 p. m. (Received 10.30 p. in.) Hon. C.A. DANA, Assistant & cretary of War: We arrived here safely this afternoon, and will remain until to-mor- row iorenoon. I forgot to mention to you that I shall continue acting as Secretary, issuing orders and making regulations. Your official style and signature will be that of your commission, Assistant Secretary, and not Acting Secretary. I noticed, in my former absence, that the latter style had been adopted, but there can be only one Acting Secretary, and as I shall act, the style of Acting Secretary, proper in some cases, is not in the present case. EDWIN M. STANTON. CITY POINT, VA., Jan nary 6, 186510 a. m. (Received 11 a. in.) Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: It will hardly be possible for me to leave here for a few days. If I can go, however, I will let you know. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 53 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 53 CITY POINT, VA., January 6, 1865. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff of the Army: On mature reflection I am of the opinion the purchase of horses should be renewed in the East, and that all the horses that can be got elsewhere between this and spring ought to be purchased. If we can start out in the spring with a reserve of 20,000 or 30,000 spare cavalry horses they will be worth as much to us as that number of veteran troops. The resources in the South in that respect are now about exhausted. If we can keep the enemys cavalry on the move we will soon wear them out, and be able to ride over their whole country com- paratively unmolested. I would say let purchases be resumed, and col- lect all the cavalry horses possible between this and next April. U. S. GRANT. Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 6, 1865. Maj. Gen. G. G. MEADE, - Philadelphia, Pa.: I wish you to return so as to take the boat from Washington or Bal- thuore by Monday at farthest. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 6, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Will you not ask Mr. Stanton to give me a command against Wil- mington~? I will take Fort Fisher, or leave my bones on the sand. DAVID HUNTER. JANUARY 6, 1865. Maj. Gen. JOHN G. PARKE Connnandtng Army of the Potomac: * * * * * * * The only information of any direct importance elicited is that two brigades from Gordons and Pegrams divisions moved south a few days ago; destination unknown. The brigades are said to be Evans and Lewis, which are Gordons and Hokes old brigades, of Earlys old division. Information from City Point as follows: Refugees from north side of James report troops passing through Richmond going south day before yesterday; thought to be Kershaws division. * * * * * * JN(Y. C. BABCOCK Page 54 54 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYiJI. SPECIAL WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, ORDERS, Washington, January 6, 1865. No.8. } * * * * * * ~9. Capt. Joseph H. Metcalf assistant adjutant-general of volunteers, will report in person without delay to the commanding general Depart- ment of Virginia and North Carolina, for assignment to duty. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 4. 5 City Point, Va., January 6, 1865. Brigadier-General Benham will detach from his command one full company of engineers, for duty with Brevet Brigadier-General Abbot, commanding siege train, and order the colnmanding officer of the coin- paiiy detached to report in person and without delay to Brevet Brig- adier-General Abbot, for instructions as to tools, outfit, & c., required. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 6, 186510.15 a. m. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutayt- General No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Five deserters from the enemy came into our lines last night. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 6, 1865. Col. N. II. VINCENT, Eighty-sixth New York Vols. and Dirision Officer of the Day: COLONEL: By direction of the brevet major-general commanding I send to you circular of this date from headquarters Second Army Corps, directing an advance of the picket-line. The commanding gen- eral directs that you modify the line as directed in the circular accom- panying, consulting with officer of the day of the Second Division in order to secure a complete connection; that you cause the line to be divided properly among the three brigades of the division, and that you make to-morrow morning upon being relieved a full report of the change, the change to be made to-morrow morning when the details from brigades will be increased as required for the new line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. H. l)ItIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 55 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 55 [Inclosure.] CIRCULAR. I HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 6, 1865. I. The picket-line of the Second and Third Divisions will be modified as follows to-morrow morning, the 7th instant; the old picket guard will remain posted until th& new line is established. II. That portion of the picket-line of the Second Division south of the Claypool house will be thrown forward so as to cover the Squirrel Level road, the left to rest upon the same branch of Arthurs Swamp that the present left rests upon. III. The right of the picket-line of the Third Division will be throwi forward correspondingly with the left of that of the Second Division, and will be posted along the edge of the woods overlooking the open field of the Cummings house, connecting with the present line at the crossing of Arthurs Swamp. IV. The reserves now posted on that part of the line moved forward will be advanced correspondingly, and in addition the Third Division will establish a reserve or guard of not less than 100 men on the Vaughan road in the vicinity of the McDowell field. V. Besides the force for the grand guard the Third Division will furnish 100 additional men for the increased length of picket-line. By command of Major-General Humphreys: CHARLES J. MILLS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SrxTn ARMY CORPS, January 6, 1865. (Received 10.10 a. in.) General S. WILLIAMS: Nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, - Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIEGE TRA1N, Broadway Landing, Va., January 6, 186512.20 a. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. H. J. HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac GENERAL: General Grant has ordered me on special duty with two of my companies now in your command. I have selected Company B, at Broadway Lauding, and Company L, in Battery 12 and Fort Haskell. I have arranged to relieve the latter so as to secure the proper service of the batteries. Major Cook will command the regiment in my absence. Yours, in great haste, HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding6 WINCHESTER, VA., January 6, 186512.30 p. in. (Received 1.30 p. in.) lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Grovers division, of the Nineteenth Army Corps, 4,50() strong, left Stephensons Depot at 12 in. to-day. The trains and anibulances are al Page 56 56 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. here and iiitact. Have you ally orders for them ~ The men have fully forty rounds of ammunition on their persons. The following is a copy of the instructions given Grover: Major-General GROVER Commanding Seco~d Division, Nineteenth Army Corps: The maj or-general commanding directs that you.proceed with your division, at 10 oclock to-day, via the railroad, to the city of Baltimore. On your arrival at the city of Baltimore you will, without delay, embark your troops on transports already there in readiness for you. After you have embarked your command,~ you will pro- ceed to Fort Monroe, and there rendezvous, telegraphiug to Lieutenant-General Grant immediately on your arrival. You will have to use the utmost vigilance to guard agaiast desertion, large bounties, and the numerous bounty brokers who will be at work. J. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, January 6, 18657.20 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, (Received 7.30 i~. in.) Chief of Staff: I to-day ordered two bounty-jumpers to be shot to death and the order was executed. These men xvere caught by one of my staff officers while they were in the act of deserting, and supposing him to be a rebel they gave him accurate information of the position of the troops and what troops had left, and exchanged their U. S. uniforms for that of the rebel. I thought it best to make an example of them at once. We have lost a great many men by desertion, particularly in coming from Washington to join their regiments. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WINCHESTER, January 6, 1865. Col. J. A. EKIN, (Received 8.15 a. in. 7th.) Cavalry Bureau: General Sheridan directs me to inform you that he has ordered depot at Hagerstown to be broken np and discontinued. All U. S. stores have been sent away, excepting forage, which is being delivered on con- tracts previously made. He thinks that there are too many depots of similar kind now in West Virginia, which he deems of more injury to the service than benefit. Will communicate fully by letter. - HENRY PAGE, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Quartermaster. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 5. 5 January 6, 1865. * * * * * * * 3. By reason of the seniority of rank of the commanding officer of the troops now stationed at the post of Winchester, Col. 0. Edwards, Thirty-seventh Massachnsetts Volunteers, is relieved from command of the same, and will report to these headquarters for orders Page 57 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. 57 4. Brig. Gen. J. D. Fessenden, commanding Third Brigade, First Division, Nineteenth Corps, is announced as commander of the post of Winchester, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, Jm, Assistant Adjutant- (Jeneral. IIDQRs. FIRsT SEPARATE BRIO-., DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 6, 18657 p. m. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff, Department of Washington: Colonel Gansevoort, commanding at Prospect Hill, reports that at 1.30 oclock this morning an attack was made on his picket-post at Lewinsville, the enemy firing into his reserve, wounding three men, though it is supposed with some loss to the enemy. The rest of the line is reported quiet. ~. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. POINT LOoKOUT, January 6, 1865. (Received 8 a. in. 7th.) Hon. G. WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: Telegram received. General Barnes is of the opinion that with two small vessels on each side of the river the Roanoke will be dispensed with. Condition of the Roanokes-boilers is such that she will soon have to leave. Chief engineers report goes by to-days mail. Every pre- caution has been taken to meet any attack. A. II. KIL WINCHESTER, January 6, 1865. General EMORY: Keep all the trains of Second Division at 5tephenson~s Depot intact. JAS. W. FORSYTH. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, - January 6, 18659.50 a. m. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: I received and issued yesterday the orders repeated this morning. The Second Division is ready to move when the cars are ready. The wagon and ambulance trains are ordered to remain. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- (Jeneral, Commanding Page 58 58 N. AND SE. VA., N. C, W. VA., MD., AND PA. VillA?. LVIII, HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, January 6, 186511.40 a. rn. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chi~f of Staff, IVinchester. The First Brigade, Second Division, has moved out on the ears. W. H. EMORY. WINCHESTER, January 6, 186512.10 p. m. General EMORY: Has General Grover left with his command? Please telegraph me when he starts. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-General FORSYTH, January 6, 1865. Chief of Staff Winchester: General Grover left with one brigade at 11.30. 1 will telegraph when the other brigades leave. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, January 6, 186512.40 p. m. Brevet Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: All the remaining force will be off in the next hour. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-General FORSYTH, January 6, 18652 p. m. Chief of Staff, Winchester: The last man of the Secoiid Division has left here on the cars. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 6, 1865. General STEVENSON: Forbid newspaper correspondents to publish any movements of troops from this valley. P. H. SHERIDAN, 11Jiajor- General Page 59 CHAP. LYIILI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 59 STEPHENSONS, January 6, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Major-General Sheridan directs that twenty-four house-ears be in readiness at Harpers Ferry or Sandy Hook to reship troops of General Grovers division, now on flat cars. They will arrive at Harpers Ferry about 4 p. rn. JAS. T. WRAY, Captain and Assistant Quartermaster. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, No. 3. New Berne, N. (J., January 6, 1~G5. The organization heretofore known as the Sub-District of the Albe- marie is discontinued. The commanding officer of the stations of iRoa:noke Island and Plymonth will report direct to these headquarters. * * * By command of Brig. Gen. 1. N. Palmer: J. A. JU1)~ON, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEW YORK CITY, January 6, 18654 p. rn. (Received 6 P. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. M. C. MEI~s, Quartermaster- General: Steamers Suwo Nada and Ashland started last evening for Balti- more. The Oriental will start early in the morning for same place. This will complete the transportation required for the 5,000 troops and. 1,000 laborers at Baltimore. S. VAN VEJET, Brecet Brigadier- General. 1)EPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, January 7, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, ASeeretary of War: SIR: I have the honor to invite your attention to the important information contained in the inclosed copy of a dispatch of the 3d instant from the U. S. consular agent at Toronto, Canada West, and to be, sir, your obedient servant, WILLIAM H. SEWARD. [hiclosure.] U. S. CONSULATE, Toronto, Canada. West, January 3, 1865. Hon. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.: SIR: The following facts have been given to inc. I hasten to trans- mit them directly to you, without losing the several days time nece Page 60 60 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. sary to occupy by sending through the consul-general; I shall, how- ever, inclose him a copy. I am not informed of the names of parties interested, only their initials, which I give as I receive them: The rebels in this city have a quick and successful communication with Jeff. Davis and the authorities in Richmond in the following manner: Having plenty of money at theft command they employ British sub- jects, who are provided with British passports, and also with passports from Colonel (probably Jacob Thompson), which are plainly written, name and date of issue, on fine silk, and are ingeniously secreted in the lining of the coat. They carry dispatches which are made and carried in the same manner. These messengers wear metal buttons, which upon the inside dispatches are most minutely photo- graphed, not perceptible to the naked eye, but are easily read by the aid of a powerful lens. Letters are written but are closely interlined with imperceptible ink, as they term it (to which when a certain chem- ical is applied is easily deciphered). The messenger arriving at Balti- more receives additional instructions from B , and proceeds to Washington. Here he undergoes a thorough examination, is searched and permitted to pass; he takes a southeasterly direction to Port Tobacco, where he is sheltered by a widow, Mrs. F ~ andat dead of night crosses in an India rubber boat to the south side of the Potomac; thence he goes to Bowling Green, where his rebel passport is n~ed, to Guerrilla B , who hastens him onto iRichinond. He returns by the same route. The last trip was made in fourteen days (December 1428). Boxes are receiVed from Port Tobacco, marked Mineral Specimens, with dispatches secreted: in the lining. This information is reliable, from a person who has seen the dispatches and has personal knowledge of the facts. I hope to be able to get information more fully,names, and when the next messenger leaves, & c.,which I shall lose no time in communicating to the Department. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. J. KIMBALL, U. S. Consular Agent. WASHINGTON, 1). C., January 7, 186511 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Gity Point: I send you by telegraph General Orders, No. 1, relieving General Butler from his command. It will not be entered on the files or pub- lished here till you have it delivered to him. Please answer by tele- graph the date that General Butler is relieved. H. W. HALLECK, Major- ~ieneral and Chief of Staff. GENERAL ORDERS,) ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, No. 1. January 7, 1865. By direction of the President of the United States, Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler is relieved from the command of the Department of North Caro- lina and Virginia. Lieutenant-General Grant will designate an officer to take this command temporarily. Major-General Butler, on being relieved, will repair to Lowell, Mass., and report by letter to the Adju- tant-General of the Army. By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- Ueneral Page 61 CHAP. LYIH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 61 CITY POINT V Lient. Col. M. R. MORGAN, , A., January 7, 1865. Chief Commissary, Armies operating against Richmond: You will immediately proceed to Fort Monroe and load such sea- going vessels as may arrive at that point, with fifteen days rations of provisions, and to see that such vessels are supplied with fuel and water. You will also provision each vessel with ten days extra rations of hard bread, if the quantity on hand at Fort Monroe will permit; but if there be not a sufficient quantity then you will supply as many days extra rations of hard bread to each vessel as the quantity on hand will allow. You will report by telegraph to these headquarters the number of ves- sels you may provision and the amount. By the command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Military Secretary. JANUARY 7, 1865. Maj. Geu. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: -P * * * * * Information from City Point as follows: The following from Richmond last night: Rebels have collected all the lead that can be fonnd, obtaining about 900 pounds. Powder scarce, and the supply in a measure cut off. Kershaws division is known to have gone south. Corses brigade, of Picketts division, has crossed the north side of the James and is occupyiug Fort Gilmer. JNO. C. BABCOCK. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 5. (ity Point, Va., January 7, 1865. I. In pursuance of General Orders, No. 1, War Department, Adju- tant-Generals Office, Washington, D. C., January 7, 1865, M aj. Gen. E. 0. C. Ord, U. S. Volunteers, will relieve Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler in the command of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina, tempora- rily. IT. Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler will turn over to Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. Ord the records and orders of the department, and all public money in his possession, or subject to his order, collected by virtue of rules and regu- lations which he may have established. III. The department staff will report to Major-General Ord for duty. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 7, 1865. (Received 10.20 a. in.) Brig; Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Twelve deserters from the enemy came into our lines last night. Of these four were cavalrymen, who brought their horses and equipmentswith them. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General, Commanding Page 62 62 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIJi. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 7, 1865. (Received 11.40 a. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: One man from the Seven th New York Volunteers an(l one man from the Fourth New York Heavy Artillery deserted to the enemy last night. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 7, 1865. Lient. Col. WILLIAM GLENNY, Commanding Fourth Brigade: COLONEL: The brevet brigadier-general commanding directs that you cause the One hundred and sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers to build a breast-work on the right of Fort Sampson, similar to that just finished on the line of the First Brigade, between Forts Fisher and Welch. The ditch will be twelve feet wide and six feet deep, with a berme of at least one foot to prevent landslides. The work will be at least five feet high, with a banquette two feet deep, and of suitable height. Tools will be furnished by the chief of pioneers at these head- quarters. The work will be done at once. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 7, 1865. Brevet Major-General MOTT, Connuanding Third Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you send at once fifty enlisted men to strengthen the reserve of the picket-line in the vicinity of the McDo~ ell house. The circular of yesterday from these headquarters required that 100 men should be furnished for this reserve and 100 for the additional length of the new picket-line, making an increase of 200 for the picket detail. The corps officer of the day reports that it was increased by 100 only. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES J. MILLS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIx~n ARMY CORPS. January 7, 1865. (Received 9.50 a. in.) Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding Page 63 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 63 HEADQUARTERS ThIRD DiVISION, SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 7, 1865. Maj. CHARLES A. WIUTTIEM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, kS1iXth Army Corps: MAJOR: I desire to urge the propriety and necessity of forming this division into three brigades, now that opportunity for reorganization is possible. The Second Bri~ade constitutes two-thirds the division, the First Brigade, the remaining third, and there are only two bri- gades. The effective strength may be stated as 4,500 (of the division), sufficient to make three brigades of 1,500 effective men each. I would recommend that the Ninth f~ew York] Heavy Artillery amid One hun- dred and tenth Ohio (Colonel and Brevet Brigadier-General Keifer), or One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio (Co]. B. F. Smith), be the nucleus of this brigade. The Ninth Heavy Artillery has 1,140 enlisted men present; 498 enlisted men present, One hundred and tenth Ohio; 404 enlisted men present, One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio. I would urge as early action as may be possible if the formation of a third bri- gade is deemed desirable. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. SEYMOUR, Brigadier- General. BROADWAY LANDING, YA., January 7, 186510 a. m. Col. G. W. BRADLEY, Chief Quartermaster, City Point: I would like the Scott as soon as possible. The Chase will be wanted - as soon as the engineer company is embarked. Major Cook is now ready on way to explain verbally the matter to you. Both steamers must be here before dark if possible. HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va.,. January 7, 1865. Brigadier-General BIRNEY, Commanding ~4eeond Division: GENERAL: It is known that the enemy are rapidly engaged throw- ing up protection for their pickets, and it is supposed for the purpose of opening picket-firing. This is being done rapidly in your front. The commanding gemieral directs that you make preparations to-morrow to set as large a force to work to morrow night along your front as will throw up b~fore daylight in the morning a line of pits that will per- fectly protect our pickets in case firing is commenced. Captain Par- sons, chief engineer of this corps, will assist you, and inform you of the strength of pits desired by the general commanding. The general commanding desires to see you at these headquarters to-morrow morn- ing at 9 oclock. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. H. ABEL, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 64 64 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. WINCHESTER, January 7, 186512.30 p. m. Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR~ The transports were not ready at Ba]timore for General Grover and he had to go into camp. This is unfortunate. P. II. SHEIRIDAN, 3iliajor- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 7, 18655.30 p. rn. (Received 9.15 a. m. 8th.) Maj. Geit. P. II. SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va. Hold the trains of Grovers division for further orders. Transports were reported to have left Fort Monroe two or three days ago for Balti- more, to carry at least 4,000 men. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CiTY POINT, VA., January 7, 18659 p. m. (Received 9.10 a. m. 8th.) Maj. Gen. P. H. SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va. On inquiry I find that steamers sufficient to carry about 5,000 men should have been in Baltimore last Tnesday night. The quartermaster is now making inquiries to find where the vessels are. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. BALTIMORE, January 7, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Winchester: Arrived here at 8 a. in. No transportation is ready, nor will there be any ready before Sunday night. Have gone into camp at Camp Carroll. The chief quartermaster will get the transportation ready as soon as possible. Have you any further instructions ~ C. GROVER, Brevet Major- General. WINCHESTER, VA., January 7, 186510 a. m. Major-General AUGUR: I am instructed to refer following (lispatch to you. The major- general commanding desires to know whether you have any informa- tion on this subject: hARPERS FERRY, [January] 6, 1865.. General SHERIDAN: I nnderstand that large amounts of hay and corn from district in Loudoun County, from which your cavalry must expect to procure their supplies, are being crossed at Edwards Ferry and other points on Potomac out of my district. This, I learn, has been going on for two weeks. Unless General Tyler puts a stopper on it I fear Devin may have trouble for forage. See the work of speculators from Georgetown. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier-General Page 65 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 65 General iDevins brigade of cavalry is stationed at Lovettsville, Loudoun County, and all forage, & c., for his command he is ordered to draw froni Loudouu County. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, January 7, 1865. General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Middle Military Division: n reply to your dispatch of to-day I have to say that all the supplies authorized by me to cross the Potomac within my department are such as are required for the use of the troops along the river. They do now and always have procured nearly all their forage and beef from Loudoun County. One man has a permit from Treasury Department to bring in supplies from that county below Seneca. This, I should suppose, would not interfere with Devin; if it is thought it will I can have it stopped by applying to Treasury Department. - C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, DEFENSES SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Alexandria, Va., January 7, 1865. Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: It is reported that tlire~ men were wounded and one taken prisoner, together with their horses, by guerrillas, neai Lewinsville, yesterday. Last iight firing was heard toward the river; otherwise all quiet. H. H. WELLS, Col. and Provost-Marshal- General, Defenses South of the Potomac. JANUARY 7, 1865. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report all quiet along the line of my command. Very respectfully, WM. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. CITY POINT, VA., January 7, 186510 p. m. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore, Md.: Vessels were sent from Fort Monroe to Baltimore on the 3d instant~ to bring down a division of Sheridans army. A dispatch from Sheri- dan, of this afternoon, says the troops have been compelled to go into ~ R UVOL XLYI~ PT I Page 66 66 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYILL camp for want of transportation. Inquiry shows the transports to be there. Please require your quartermaster to see that the troops are embarked and got off without delay. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 7, 186510.30 a. m. Col. IR. M. NEWPORT, Quartermaster, Baltimore: Including Suwo Nada, Ashland, and Oriental, have you transporta- tion sufflcientl Has the Baltic leftl By order of Quartermaster-General: GEO. D. WISE, Colonel and Quartermaster. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 7, 18654.40 p. m. Col. H. M. NEWPORT, - Quartermaster, Baltimore: General Sheridan has reported to the Secretary of War that the transports were not ready at Baltimore for General Grover. Have them ready as soou as possible. Colonel Wise is in Baltimore. Con- suit with him, and answer when they will be ready. CHAS. TIICMAS, Acting Quartermaster- General. BALTIMORE, MD., January 7, 18656 p. m. (Received 7.30 p. in.) QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL U. S. ARMY: Your dispatch received. Neither the Snxvo Nada, Ashland, nor Oriental have arrived here, and I know nothing of their capacity. The Arid, Illinois, Victor, and General Sedgwick, now here, can carry 3,000 men and 100 horses. Transportation is required for 5,000 men and 230 horses, and for 1,000 men of the construction corps expected from the West. The Baltic left for Fort Monroe last night. It. M. NEWPORT, Colonel and Quartermaster. PHILADELPHIA, PA., January 7, 1865. ADJUTANT-GENERAL HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to make application to be ordered tem- porarily to duty in the vicinity of Philadelphia, and to inclose a com- munication from Major-General Meade approving and recommending the assignment. I wish to state that while I am not unable to proceed to any point by the usual mode of travel, yet in the field my lameness and inability to mount a horse and the effect of exposure would pre- vent me from being of much service. By undergoing another operation Page 67 67 CHAP. LYIJI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. recommended by the surgeon who has attended me from the beginning, I hope to recover entirely the use of my foot. General Cadwalader commanding departmeut, states to me that he needs a general officer to replace one lately relieved from a military commission. I would respectfully request that if possible the action of the lieutenant-general commanding may be immediately telegraphed to me. My address is care of Tyler & Co., Philadelphia. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IR. 0. TYLER, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. [Inclosure.] PHILADELPHIA, January 7, 1865. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding: GENERAL: I to-day saw Doctor Hewson, who is attending on General Robert 0. Tyler. He told me he was very desirous that General Tyler should remain here for a few weeks longer to undergo an operation which he, the doctor, believes will give him great relief. Gemmeral Tylers condition is such that he has been reported fit to travel, and will, therefore, have to leave unless he can be placed on some light duty or granted an extension of his leave. I understand he will proba- bly apply to you to order him here for light duty, and I have written this note to give you my opinion that his case is a meritorious one, and that I think he should be permitted to remain here for the purpose mentioned. Doctor Hewson is a private physician, and his certificate will not cover General Tylers remaining. The post surgeon, Doctor Neill, reports him able to travel, but as the operation proposed is to be executed by another, he is not called upon to refer to it in his report and certificate. Respectfully, yours, GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY PoINT, January 8, 186510 a. rn. (Received 4.50 p. in.) Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: Your letter of the 4th just received. Your request will be attended U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 8, 186510.30 a. m. (Received 4.45 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Washington: General Orders, No. 1, from the Adjutant-Generals Office, together with Special Orders, No. 5, headquarters Armies of the United States, of date January 7, 1865, have been delivered to General Butler, and he may be regarded as relieved from duty from this date. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 68 68 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. WASHINGTON, January 8, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: GENERAL: Your letter of the 6th in regard to the cavalry horses has been shown to Mr. Dana, and he agrees with me that action should be postponed till the Secretary of War and General Meigs return. I fear that there will be very serious difficulties in foraging the animals we now have to supply from the North and East. The crop of hay is very short; iii some places not one-third of the usual inowings. Our official reports state that nearly all the hay along the railroad lines has already been cleaned out. Farmers were obliged to send their produce to mar- ket early, in order to raise money to pay heavy local taxes for bounties to volunteers; many have also sold their teams. The rivers and canals are closed by ice, and the country roads in New York and the ~ew England States have been very bad. Many of the railroads have more than they can do with passengers and private freight. All these causes combined have affected, and will, during the winter, still more seriously affect, our supply of forage. Without the greatest care and energy we shall not be able to feed the animals we have on hand. You complain of a want of forage on the James. We are much of the time here oim half rations. Shermans army at Savannah complained, although we sent mnch more forage there than you directed. Jn fine, there is a scarcity of forage everywhere at the North. Private gentle. men and omnibus and city railroad companies say that they can scarcely procure enough in market for their private animals. Under these circumstances due precaution should be taken not to purchase cavalry horses till they are absolutely required, otherwise large imnmnbers will actually starve or be of little or no use. In respect to the West and Southwest, the difficulty of foraging is not 5G great, and purchases can be continued, at least for a time. All cavalry horses purchased there have been sent to General Thomas command to the entire exclusion of General Canbys division. The issue of cavalry horses to the troops in Kentucky and Tennessee from October 1 to December31 hasbeen28, 189, in addition to seizures in the field. Within this period of three months our loss in killed, starved, and brokemi down has probably been not less than 10,000, and General Wilson asks that that number be supplied immediately by impressing, if necessary, horses in Illinois, indiana, and Ohio. At this rate of accumulating and destroying horses, it will soon be impossible to supply either forage or horses in the West. Let- ters from General Thomas army state that his very large cavalry force has been actually injurious to the movements of that army by blocking up the roads with its supply trains. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK Major- General and Chief of Staff CITY POINT, VA., January 8, 186510 p. m. (l~eceivcd 4 a. m. 9th.) Capt. GEORGE K. LEET, Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington, D. C.: Send back General Butlers report of the Wilmington expedition to me; I wish to change the indorsement. If you have already delivered it to the Secretary of War, please call for it in my name and returim it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 69 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 69 MOREHEAD , N. C., January 8, 1865. DEAR HAWLINS: We arrived here this morning after a bad gale, which kept us knocking about off Hatteras without making any head- way. We havejust been aboard the admirals ship. He says there has not been a day fit for landing since the day we landed at Fort Fisher, December 25. He thinks a northeast gale is about to set in, and strongly urges that all our fleet be brought in to wait for good weather, as he thinks it impossible for them to stand a gale twenty-five miles out. General Terry will follow his advice, but will keep the transports away from here aud out of sight as long as possible, giving them orders to run in at the last moment. The admiral thinks we will have good weather in four or five days at the change of the moon, and does not expect it before. General Terry is at once ordering ten days additional coal and rations for our fleet. This bad weather is very unfortunate, but I dont see that we can do anything but trust to the admirals judgment in that respect. He says the rebels abandoned Fort Fisher the night of the 25th, entirely. in haste, yours, C. B. COMSTOCK. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 8, 1865. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No change in the disposition of this command since last report. Eight deserters from the enemy came into our lines during yesterday and last night. The picket-line was modified as proposed. A. A. HUMPHJ~EYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, Maj. S. CARNCROSS, January 8, 1865. Assistant Adjutant-General, & cond Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that I have assigned, subject to the approval of the major-general commanding the corps, Bvt. Brig. Geit. H. J. Madill to the command of the First Brigade of this division during the temporary absence of Brig. Gen. H. de Trobriand. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet ]Ifajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 8, 1865. (Received 10 a. in.) General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing to report for last twenty-four hours. II. G. WRIGHT, Major- General Page 70 70 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS NINr H ARMXT CORPS, January 8, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, As8istant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: Two deserters from Twenty-sixth South Carolina came in last night. They bring no new information. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 8, 1865. Byt. Maj. (len. H. J. HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac: At about 12.30 p. m. yesterday the enemy opened fire from the Ches- terfield battery with two guns upon Fort MeGilvery. Batteries 4 and 5 replied with good effect. JNO. C. TJDBALL Brevet Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. - IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 8, 1865. Brigadier- General iRAWLINS, Chief of Staff, Armies of the United States: SIR: There have been quite a number of men, women, amid childi-en all of rebellion proclivities, and many of them well informed as to mili- tary matters, sent to these headquarters to be sent across the lines. As we are imearer Richmond here than at any other point, our army more concentrated and opemi to observation, have no place of entertainment or confinement for rebel women or children, and some of the women ought to be confined while here, and as they have Ilecessarily opportu- nities for learning and seeing while here much that should be not known to rebel leaders, I respectfully represent that it is dangerous and improper to have such persons pass these lines at all while we are pros- ~ecuting the war. 1 therefore recommend that no more come here, and all those now here be sent to some place where there are no operations going on, and then passed south, if such is deemed the best disposition which can be luade of them. The whole frontier is open to them, and operations are going on but at two or three points. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 8, 1865. SOLDIERS OF THE ARMY OF THE JAMES: Your commander, relieved by the order of the President, takes leave of you. Your conduct in the field has extorted praises from the unwilling. You have endured the privations of the camp and the march without a murmur. You have never failed in attack when ordered. You hav Page 71 CHAP. LVIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 71 stormed and carried works deemed impregnable by the enemy. You have shown the positions to be so by holding them against his fiercest assaults in the attempt to retake them. Those skilled in war have marvelled at the obstacles overcome by your valor. Your line of works has excited the wonder of officers of other nations who havecome to learn defensive warfare from the monuments of your skilled labor. Your deeds have reudered your name illustrious. In after times your generals proudest memory will be to say with you, I, too, was of the Army of the ~ To share such companionship is pleasure. To participate in such acts is honor. To have commanded such an army is glory. No one could yield it without regret. Knowing your willing obedience to orders, witnessing your ready devotion of your blood in your countrys cause, I have been chary of the precious charge confided to me. I have refused to order the useless sacrifice of the lives of such soldiers, and I am relieved from your com- mand. The wasted blood of my men does not stain my garments. For my action 1 am responsible to God and my country. To THE COLORED TROOPS OF THE ARMY -OF THE JAMES: In this army you have been treated not as laborers but as soldiers. You have shown yourselves worthy of the uniform you wear. The best officers of the Union seek to command you. Your bravery has won the admiration even of those who would be your masters. Your patriotism, fidelity, and courage have illustrated the best qualities of manhood. With the bayonet you have unlocked the iron-barred gates of preju- dice, opening new fields of freedom, liberty, and equality of right to yourselves and your race forever. Comrades of the Army of the James, I bid you farewell! farewell! BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, JIDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF TiI~ JAMES, No. 4. ) In the Field, January 8, 1865. In obedience to orders contained in Special Orders, No. 5, of January 7, 1865, from headquarters Armies of the United States, the under- signed hereby assumes command of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina. E. 0. C. GIRD, Major- General. BROADWAY LANDINC~ VA., January 8, 18~511.8O a. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, Chief of $taff, Armies in the Field, City Point: I have seen Major ilassler, of General ~ staff. He advises that crews be taken for the two launches, as they require skilled oars- men. I would, therefore, request that a good officer and thirty-five memi be ordered to report to me from that command. I shall be ready to start early to-morrow morning, and shall report in person this p. m. HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers Page 72 72 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVlII. CITY POINT, VA., January 8, 1865. Brigadier-General GRAHAM, Commanding Flotilla: Order an officer and thirty-five men to report to General Abbot, with- out delay, to take charge of two launches. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, C~ity Point, Va., Jc~.nuary 8, ~865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. II. L. ABBOT, 61ommanding Siege Artillery: GENERAL: As soon as you can get under way with the troops and train heretofore directed to be put on shipboard proceed to Beaufort, N. C., and report to Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry for further orders. If, on arrival at Beaufort, you find Guneral Terry has left there, you will proceed to where he has been directed, off New Inlet to Cape Fear River, N. C. If you learn before arrival at Beaufort that General Terry has sailed from there it will not be necessary for you to put into that port, but you will proceed immediately to report to him wherever he may be. All further orders and directions you will receive from Major-General Terry, commanding expedition against Fort Fisher. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WILSONS WHARF, January 8, 1865. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Army of the James: Four rebel deserters came into this post this morning. They left Richmond last night and report that about 15,000 Virginia troops were sent to South Carolina last Sunday. J. B. CARR, Brigadier- General. WINCHESTER, January 8, 18651 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Grovers division left Stephensons Depot at 12 noon on the 6th, and arrived in Baltilnore that night. I sent the troops on a dispatch from the Secretary of War that the transports would be in Baltimore. Gen- eral Grover on his arrival in Baltimore telegraphed that he had to go into camp, as transportation was not on hand and would not be until this evening, January 8. This gives the bounty brokers a chance to work on the men, and I am afraid will cause desertions. P.11. SHERIDAN, Major- General Page 73 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 73 HDQRS. FIRST SEPARATE BRIG., DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 8. 18656 p. m. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of $tajf, Department of Washington: COLONEL: Reports from the several stations on the line just received. Last night the pickets outside at Lewinsville and in the same direction from Vienna were felt and fired into without loss. The balance of the line quiet. W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade BALTIMORE, January 8, 18652 p. m. General GRANT: I know nothing of the movement of the troops from General Sheri- dan, except what the depot quartermaster informed me on Friday nightthat a division had arrived but there were no transports ready, whereupon I provided camp ground. The quartermaster now informs me that transportation for 3,000 is here. Remainder of vessels expected hourly from New York, having left on 5th and 7th. Transportation sent from Old Point was not sufficient. General Grover, who is in command, informs inc he will embark the troops and depart as each vessel is ready, without waiting for all, and with all possible haste. I will render him all the aid I can. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General. BNLTIMORE, Mn., January 8, 186512.30 p. m. (Received 12.40 p. in.) General CHARLES THOMAS, A etinq Quartermaster- General: Your dispatch received. I am advised by Colonel Wise that in addition to the vessels now here a sufficient number left New York oii the 5th and 6th instant to complete the transportation required. These, however, have not yet arrived. Every effort will be made to hasten the embarkation of the troops. R. M. NEWPORT, Colonel and Quartermaster. BALTIMORE, Mn., January 8,18653 p. m. (Received 3.30 p. in.) General THOMAS, Acting Quartermaster- General: I will remain in Baltimore to-morrow to assist in the transportation for the troops, unless otherwise directed. GEORGE D. WISE, Colonel and Quartermaster Page 74 74 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS OUTPOSTS, Batchelders Creek, N C., January 8, 18651 1 a. m. Captain PARKINSON: Five rebel cavalry deserters, with their horses, came within my hues this a. in. General Hoke, Confederate Army, is concentrating his forces at Kinston, N. C.; Colonel Whitfords forces are there; and from the change and disposition of their pickets I partially suspect some reprisals on their part. Will forward deserters in the a. in. P. J. CLAASSEN, Colonel, Corn manding Outposts. (Copy to Captain Judson.) CITY POINT, VA., Jan nary 9, 18652.30 p. rn. (Received 3.50 p. in.) Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: I cannot leave here at this time. I must be here to take advantage of any great rednction of the enemys forces. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., Jan nary 9, 18658.30 p. m. (Received 9.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: The subject of forage is growing into a serious matter. For the last week aiiimals have been. on half rations, and at that no supplies are accumulated. Forage is issued as it arrives, and at no time for the last five days has there been two days supply ahead. The quarter- master here has represented this matter fully, and urged the necessity of getting forward supplies in time to have avoided this state of affairs. I am inclined to believe Colonel Brown entirely incompetent for his responsible position. I wish you would call the attention of the Assist- ant Quartermaster-General to this matter, and require him to see that a full supply of grain and hay is immediately forwarded, and that it is hereafter kept up. ~-. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 9, 1865. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: Were orders sent to General Thomas to send Schofields corps to Annapolis as soon as Hood was known to have gone south of Corinth t When started it would be advisable to have the troops transported on boats, if navigation is not closed, to Wheeling and Parkersburg, one- half to come over the Baltimore and Ohio road, the other over the Penn- sylvania Central. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 75 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tTNION. 75 CHAP. LVIII.) WASHINGTON, January 9, 18659.20 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Ira: Your orders about Schofields corps were immediately transmitted. As soon as an answer is received transportation by the most expedi- tious routes will be ordered. I fear the corps is much scattered. You said nothing in your orders about the artillery. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. WASHINGTON, P. C., January 9, 186511.80 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: General Butlers report of the Wilmington expedition will bereturned by to-days mail. GEO. K. LEET, Captain and Assistant A djutant- General. JANUARY 9, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE. Commanding Army of the Potomac: We have information this morning from three of our agents in Rich- mond, coining by different sources. The information is down to yes- terday morning. One of agents started on Saturday afternoon, and having reached the outposts on the Seven-Mile road, which has been the usual passing point, was turned back to Richmond, and was obliged to come yesterday through Hanover County, and beyond the Chickahoininy. From all of these agents, and as we believe, the infor- mation being derived from different aiid independent sources, we get word that there are now some facts going to show that the Confederate Government is preparing to abandon the city of Richmond. It seems to be understood within the rebel lines that it will not do for them to wait for us to open the spring campaign, and that this army by a sud- den assault must either be driven from its present position on the James River or that the Confederate Government be moved to some other point. One of our agents says, in writing: It is reported anti believed that much machinery is being moved south and also that the Clothing Bureau is being moved away. Another says: They are certainly making arrangements to leave Richmond. The laboratory is in process of removal. Another writes as follows: There is no material here now to keep the principal Government shops at work. The work of the female operatives at the laboratory has been suspended for lack of material. At the Tredegar works there has not been a large gun cast for a month or more. The people are in a deplorable situation. There is neither food nor clothing to be had; the rations for the soldiers in hospital have even been reduced. Since the capture of the salt-works the price of salt has gone up from 50 cents to $1.25 per pound; flour is between $600 an Page 76 70 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rOHAP. LVIII. $700 a barrel; buckwheat is $60 per bushel; and gold has reached fifty for one. Kershaws division was moved during the night through Richmond in order to conceal the movement from the people, but our folks now say that they are wide awake, and cannot be cheated any longer. They promise ns continually abundant information whenever there is no snow on the ground. It was reported toward the last of the week that Pickett~s division was moved on the north side of the river. This turns out to be that one brigade was taken from it, from between the Appomattox and the James, and put in position on the north side to strengthen the lines there weakened by the withdrawal of Kershaw. There is nothing known from Breckinridge, and nothing from Early, who is believed to be at Staunton. Our agent who lives within the fortifications just where the Nine-Mile road enters the city sends word in writing: The lines are very thin from the Nine-Mile road to the Williamsbnrg road, and the force on the north side generally weak. Complaint is made by the officers and owners of the Danville road of the way in which it is being traveled day and night to meet the wants of the city and troops. GEG. II. SHAIRPE, Colonel, & e. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 7. City Point, Va., January 9, 1865. * * * * * * * 2. All embalming surgeons having been excluded from the lines of the armies operating against Richmond, the friends and relatives of officers and soldiers are hereby notified that hereafter the bodies of officers and soldiers who die in gener~d or base hospitals can be embalmed without charge upon making personal application to the chief medical officer of hospitals. Applications for the embalming of officers and soldiers who die at division hospitals at the front or oim the field of battle mnst be made to the medical director of the corps to which such officers or soldiers belonged. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 13. Washington, January 9, 1865. * * * * * * * 31. Brig. Gen. R. 0. Tyler, U. S. Volunteers, will report in person, without delay, to the commanding general Department of Pennsyl- vania, for duty. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 77 CHAP. IN.]. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 77 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 9, 186510.20 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Five rebel deserters came into our lines during the night. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- General. IIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 9, 1865. Bvt. Maj. JOHN N. CRAIG Asst. Adjt. Gen., Artillery Headquarters, Ar my of the Potomac: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the batteries of this com- mand occupy the following positions on this date, viz: Position. Battery. Guns. Commanding officer. Fort Fisher C and I, 5th U. S. Artillery.... Four light 12-pounders. First Lieut. E. P. Clark. Fort Welch 11th New York Battery Six 3-inch First Lient. J. T. Wyatt. Fort Gregg M, 1st New Hampshire Artil Four 3-inch Capt. G. K. Dakin. lery. Fort Sampson B, 1st New Jersey Artillery - Four light 12-pounders Capt. A. J. Clark. In reserve do Two light 12-pounders. Do. Fort Cummings K, 4th U. S. Artillery Four light 12-pounders First Lieut. B. 5. Smith. Fort Siehert 10th Massachusetts Battery - Two 3-inch Brevet Major Sleeper. Fort Emery do do Do. In reserve do do Do. Fort Clarke 12th New York Battery Four light 12-pounders. Lient. Willians S. Bull. In reserve B 1st Rhode Island Artillery. Six light 12-pounders ... Brevet Major Brown. Trainguards & c L 4th New York Artillery do Lieut. R. Kennedy. Ninth Corps line. G, 1st New York Artillery.~~~ Six light 12-pounders - Capt. S. A. McClellan. F, 1st Pennsylvania Artillery. Six 3-inch First Lient. J. F. Camp. hell. 3d New Jersey Battery Six light 12-pounders Brevet Major Woerner. 6th Maine Battery do Capt. W. H. Rogers. C, 4th New York Artillery.... Six Coehorn mortars... First Lient. D. D. Mc: Pherson. Capt. J. II. Wood, C, Fourth New York Artillery, absent with leave for several days; Bvt. First Lieut. W. B. Beck, C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, abseiit on leave, Special Orders, No. 5, headquarters Army of the Potomac, January 5, 1865; First Lieut. E. P. Clark, B, First New Jersey Artillery, conln7landillg C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, dur- ing Lientenant Becks absence; Bvt. Capt. J. W. Hoder, K, Fourth U. S. Artillery, absent on leave for twenty days, Special Orders, No. 355, headqnarters Army of the Potomac, December 30, 1864; First Lieut. E. S. Smith, commanding K, Fonrth U. S. Artillery, Lient J. Webb Adams, Tenth Massachusetts Battery, absent on leave for twenty days, Special Orders, No. 7, headqnarters Army of the Potomac, January 7, 1865; Lient. John G. Deane, acting aide-de-camp, absent on leave for twenty days, Special Orders, No. 356, headquarters Army of the Potomac, December 3, 1864. Respectfully snbu~itted. JNO. G. HAZARD, Brevet Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Page 78 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVII. 78 CITY POINT, January 9, 1865. Major-General WARREN: Did you find any considerable amount of forage on your march toward Weldon? Is there any in the country near our hues and within our reach? Will you please reply by telegraph to-night? RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 9, 18657.45 p.m. Brigadier-General INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, City Point: Major-General Warren being absent on leave, I have the honor to reply to y~our telegrani of this p. in. The amount of forage discovered by us on our late expedition was not large, arid this was either con- sunied by our cavalry and artillery and train animals or was burned. The country adjacent to the line of march seemed quite bare. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, January 9, 186510.40 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: The enemy made a dash a little before 6 oclock this a. m. upon the left of the Third and right of the Second Division of the corps, firing one volley and then returning. Three or four men are missing. It is possible that some or all of them skulked back to camp. When ascer- tained the loss, if any, will be reported. There seems to have been no confnsion. The troops were all under arms at once. With this excep- tion, nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. - H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, & C., Fort Monroe, January 9, 186511 a. m. PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, Washington, D. C.: I have telegraphed to the Secretary of War for leave to publish my report of the Wilmington affair. I have received no answer. He is absent. In his absence I respectfully ask your leave to publish it. General Grant favored it. It is but justice. Please answer by tele- graph. J3ENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General Page 79 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 79 CITY POINT, VA., January 9, 18653.30 p. m. Major-General ORD: I want you to have a thorough examination made of your Bermuda front, and report whether, in your judgment, we can go through by a surprise and by massing. I could give you an additional corps to hold what you got, and would give up all north of the James, except two or three important points, if it could be done. U. S. GRA24T, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 9, 18654.20 p. rn. General U. S. GRANT, City Point: Cipher dispatch received; will be attended to. E. 0. C. ORD. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, VA., January 9, 1865. Lieutenant KING, Acting Chief Engineer: SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of engineer oper- ations on the Bermuda Hundred front for the week ending January 7, 1865: Battery Anderson was repaired by raising parapet two feet. Em- brasures were repaired. The new interior line from Battery Anderson, on the right, to Battery England, on the left, was completed, excepting the abatis, which is owing to the scarcity of transportation. Repairs were made in Battery England. The old revetting of rails was taken down and new poles put up. The infantry parapets from Battery England to Battery Pruyn and Battery Walker are being repaired, and nearly finished. The average details were 40 engineers and 100 infantry. I will send you a more detailed report to-morrow. Very respectfully, your obedieiit servant, TIt ENOR, Lieutenant, First New York Engineers. STEAMER MCCLELLAN, Morehead City, January 9, 1865. DEAR RAWLINS: Wind is still northeast and fresh; weather not goodeloudyand looks as if it might be worse. A vessel loaded with supplies for Butlers expedition which got driven off in a gale turned up here last night, so we are well rationed. General Terry has sent to Old Point for coal. Geiieral Terry has been making every exertion to keep our destination a secret, allowing nobody to go ashore; indeed, only one or two on this vessel knew of its destination until yesterday, when the navy officers who came on board spoke of it freely before anybody, and Captain Terry, meeting some acquaintances on shore, was told it was known there three days before our arrivalthat is, on the 5ththat another expedition against Wilmington was coming, and under Terrys command. How long we shall have to lie here for the weather, Heave Page 80 80 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. knows. Coining down it was bad enough. The machinery of two of the vessels was disabled in the storm, and two others were injured by it. I wish you would say to Abbot that I am not sure we will be able to get any gabion or revetting material on shore, and think the quan- tity mentioned in my memorandum should be increased; also that he should bring a lot of iron wire, telegraph or smaller. General Terry speaks very highly of the New York VolunP~er Engineers (Serrells), and of their experience in siege work at Fort Wagner, and would like to have some of them. The memorandum I left mentioned one company of engineers, if Abbot has not started wheii this reaches you, it would probably be best to make the selection from them, sending 100 or 150, but not, by no manner of means, including Colonel Serrell. There is no hope, at least at present, of the admirals trying to run by Fort Fisher, but it may be that, if we get a foothold, we can haul boats across into Cape Fear River and establish a boat blockade of the fort. To-night weather is worse; vessels are coming in from outside to escape the northeaster which all the old sea-dogs are predicting. To-day the wind has been fresh all day. The truth is, nothing can be done in the way of landing or of navy fire without either a dead calm or, better still, a little breeze off shore to keep down the rollers which come in on tiPs coast even wheii there is no wind. General Terry has told the admiral that he is at his disposal when the weather will do. There are rumors at New Berne that the rebs are collecting a force at Kinston to make an attack on the latter place. These may very likely come from the movements of troops to the south, and from the fact that they at. tack it every winter; still, if its garrison is small, it might be increased from Norfolk or the Army of the James for the winter, as it would be a very important base for Sherman if he went to Raleigh. I will try to find out more about these stories and let you know. Yours, truly, C. B. COMSTOCK. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Steamer General Lyon, January 9, 1865. The coloImel commanding directs me to instruct you to be able, at the close of this expedition, to report the names of such officers and enlisted men of your command as shall have distinguished themselves by gen- eral or any particular act of good behavior, in order that their conduct may be reported, and that they may receive due credit therefor, either in promotion or in medals or in honorable mention in reports. The substance of this circular will be communicated to all commanders of companies, and by them to their men. I am, very respectfully, & c., E. LEWIS MOORE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, January 9, 1865. Major ANDREWS, First New Hampshire Cavalry, commanding on Upper Potomac: MAJOR: Recently a party of nine of Mosbys men crossed the Potomac in your front and passed through your picket-line without discovery Page 81 CHAP. LVIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 81 This argues great carelessness in posting the pickets and organizing the patrols, or criminal neglect of duty on that portion of the line where the passage was made. The major-general commanding directs me to call your attention to this matter, in order that steps may not be neg- lected to insure l)revention of its recurrence. Very respectfully, major, your most obedient servant, J. 11. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. WINCHESTER, January 9, 1865. Major-General EMORY: The general commanding directs that you order the regiment of General Fessendens brigade now on duty at Stephensons Depot to report to him at Winchester without delay. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-General FoRSYTH, January 9, 186512.20 p.- m. Chief of Staff, Winchester: The only regiment here of the Third Brigade, First Division, is the One hundred and seventy-third, which was detached some time ago by orders from headqukrters to guard the cattle. I presume that is the regiment referred to. I will order a regiment from the brigade left here to relieve the One hundred and seventy-third New York, and send it immediately to Winchester. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Brig. Gen. JAMES D. FESSENDEN, January 9, 1865. Commanding Third Brigade, First Dirision, Winchester: The One hundred and seventy-third New York started for Winches- ter at 2 p. m. Please communicate this to Colonel Forsyth, chief of staff. PETER FRENCH, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. Lou~ CREEK, January 9, 1865. Col. J. H. OLEY, 6~ommanding, & c., Charleston: I have seen several persons that have come through .Lewisburg within the last few days. They all report that there is only about seventy rebels there, under command of Major Sweeney. They saw no scouts of the rebels this side of there. I have a scout now on the Lewisburg road. I think the road is clear and safe. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, Commanding Po8t, 6 R RVOL XLYI~ PT I Page 82 82 N. AND SE. VA., N. C, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYJII. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 10, 18651.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRMqT, City Point: Your telegram about forage has been trail srnitte(l to General Thomas. I think the difficulty is less the fault of Colonel Brown thau the abso- lute scarcity in the INorthern and Eastern States, and the difficulty of transportation now that the canals and rivers are frozen up. I will get what facts I can and write to you. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TILE POTOMAC, January 10, 1865. (Sent 3 p. in.) General J. A. RAWLINS, Chief of Staff, City Point: General Parke desires me to ask that you will please cause him to be advised of the hour that General Meade leaves City Point for these headquarters, as he will himself then return to the headquarters of the Ninth Corps. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POLNT, January 10, 1865. (Received 6 p. in.) General S. WILJ~IAMS, Assistant Adjutantr General: General M~ade has just arrived here; will go to the front on the 8 oclock train. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, January 10, 186511 a. m. (Received 8 a. in. 11th.) QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL: (Through General-in-Chief.) We have only some three days grain within our reach. So far as I am informed the animals have been on half rations since the 3d instant. General Grant could not move his army, if he would, for want of forage. If there be plenty on the way here I am not informed of the fact, as ordered recently by you. Should the river close up with ice in our present situation the consequences would be fatal to our stock. For- age, partk~ular1y grain, should be sent here by steam power. Sea steamers laden with grain could tow sail crafts to this poiimt. Our immediate necessities should be supplied in this manner. Generals Rueker or Van Vliet could have this done if so ordeied. RUFUS INGALLS, Quartermaster. Page 83 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 83 ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp before Petersburg, January 10, 1865. Brigadier-General RAWLiNS, Chief of Staff, Armies of the United States: I have the honor to submit for the consideration of the lieutenant- general the necessity for establisiiin g general regulations for the organ- ization of the artillery of our armies, defining its duties, its relations to other troops, the powers and functions of its officers, providing for its government and administration, and for the force necessary to dis- charge its duties. I do this because of the many evils which exist in this arm, not only affecting its owu character and standing, but injuri- ous to the whole service. The absence of any such code, of any recog- nized head or central authority specially charged with its direction, and of established prescriptive rights and duties, are sufficient to account for the evils I refer to, and are my reasons for bringing the subject directly to the notice of the lieutenant-general. The want of a code of regulations would soon break down any branch of the service. Of the two special arms, the engineers have a chief and bureau and a special code, whilst its sister service, the artillery, has neither. In the case of neither of them, however, are there any comprehensive rules adapted to the existing condition of the service and providing for the relations of these arijis to each other and for their duties in large armies. It can, I think, be shown that as a consequence grave inconvenience and injury have resulted. I have here tQ deal specially with the artillery, but the same general principles as to organization and administration apply to both. If in an army the artillery consisted only of field bat- teries, serving as auxiliaries with other troops, the necessity would exist for a proper organization which wonid fix its position and relation to those troops and provide for the casualties and exigencies of service. The experience of our service proves this. A French six-gun battery is allowed 234 enlisted men; an English, about the same number; an American, but 147, a number barely sufficient to serve the battery of ~ efficiently, leaving nothing for contingencies. As soon as the number of men is diminished by the casualties of battle, by sick- ness, details, & c., the number of guns in each battery must be reduced, or men must be detailed from the infantry or cavalry to make good the losses. These in.en are not so serviceable as artillerists; they frequently dislike the duty; and from the time the details are made a continued struggle is going on between regimental and battery commanders for their possession. This is bnt one of the more obvious evils to which - even the field artillery is snbjected, and which has had a bad effect upon its efficiency. Field operations, however, involve other duties for the artillery. In marches near the enemy it is often desirable to occupy positions with guns for special purposes: to command fords, to cover the throwing and taking up of bridges, and for many other purposes for which it would be inconvenient and unadvisable to withdraw their batteries from the troops. Hence the necessity for a reserve of artillery, the batteries of which have labored under the same and even greater imiconveniences than those attached to the corps, as they have mio troops upon which to call for details, the army corps furnishing men to their owim batteries with reluctance. But in a large army, especially in offensive operations, there are still other duties to provide for: positions must be intrenched and occupied, lines of field-works constructed, depots, important bridges, passes, & c., fortified, and all these require skilled labor and artillery Page 84 84 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYJIL To furnish the armaments of these fixed positions from the field bat- teries causes great and unnecessary expense, and hence the necessity for foot artillery available for such duties. The construction and repair of batteries, platforms, magazines, & c., is the proper work of the artil- lery, requires special instruction to prepare the material amid perform it well and expeditiously, and in the organization of a large army all these things should be provided for, even if the probability of such services is not foreseen, for at any time the necessity may present itself, and the consequent change and dislocation of organized commands to meet the emergency occasions evils and waste of men greater than those the original organizations were meant to avoid. A siege train, or at least the nucleus of one, is an almost indispensa- ble part of the organization when operating in an enemys country. The train would not usually accompany the army, althoimgh I believe that eight or twelve siege guns moving with it would always be of great value. The 20-pounder Parrotts are too heavy for field gumis and too light for heavy work. The mnaterial of a siege traimm and a small force of well instructed men should always be held ready. The value of Abbots train to this army has been incalculable. When the train is brought up for service, the artillery teanis and wagon tramisportation required, and the additional troops, can often be supplied for the special siege labors from a well organized artillery reserve. At Yorktown the reserve was kept, men and horses, hard at work on the labors of siege, ammd furnished besides a number of its officers for engimmeer duties proper. No command worked harder or was more usefally employed. In all armies excepting ours, and formerly in our armny also, all ord- nance duties pertain to the artillery, the officers not immediately on duty with tlme troops constituting a part of the gemmeral staff of the army. The reasons for this are obvious: artillery and ordnance duties are intimately connected with each other and are coextensive with the army. It is impracticable for any special ordnance department to fur- nish sufficient officers or men to perform the ordnance duties of an army, and they must be furnished by details from other branches of the service. The artillery can best provide for these details at the smallest expense of men and material, as from the nature of its duties it must have an organization of similar character throughout the army for its own special purposes. The artillery of muodern armnies is therefore so organized in men and material as to suffice for the ordnance duties, and the general com- manding the artillery furnishes from his comnumand the special guards, officers, & c., required, and becomes responsible for all the duties. We have now two organizations with distinct heads reporting to the general commanding the army. An officer of the ordnance department on the staff of the chief of artillery, and a comparatively small increase of the artillery staff would provide for all ordnance duties at a great reduc- tion of expense and transportation, and to the manifest simplification of the duties of a commanding general. By law the ranking artillery officers of divisions and corps are ex officio, in additiou to their other duties. chiefs of artillery and ordnance. It is therefore apparently the intention of Congress that the duties should be united in the field. This cannot be well done unless the chief of artillery of the armny is also chief of ordnance. The comumanders of artillery brigades cannot be expected to report to or receive orders from lieutenants or captains of ordnance, and the positive law of Congress has not, except in rare instances, been executed. I have now sketched in general terms the nature of the duties of artillery of modern armies when serving in campaign Page 85 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 85 As all arm of service it has grown up from the modest begin- nings, and every step in advance has been forced upon the different natioiis by the lessons of experience, from the time when each battalion had a company of grenadiers and one or two cannon hauled by hand or by contract until as at present it forms one of the most powerful and costly elements of an army: organized as a unit, commanded and administered by its own officers, specially educated and set apart for the purpose, and distributed, according to the wants of the service, under the special code which the nature vane duties requires. , ty, and extent of its Our present organization, or rather want of one, is a long stride toward the ancient system; although it does not divide the guns up among the battalions, it adopts that organization in principle, by consid- ering the artillery as an integral portion of the division or brigade or other fraction of an army with which it serves. It thus breaks up the arm as a unit, deprives it of a uniform, system of administration, reim- ders esprit de corps impossible, and subjects the arm to the whims and caprices, as well as the various systems, of as many officers as there are distinct army commands with batteries assigned to them. The prevailing idea in our armies that artillery and engineer officers above the rank of captain are merely staff officers is the natural result of our orgapization, and has led to infinite mischief to the service. It belongs to the same period and the same class of ideas which required that general officers should reside at general headquarters and be detailed by the roster for the direction of troops when work was to be done. In all other armies a juster knowledge now assigns general officers of all branches of the service to organized commands, and in ours infantry and cavalry generals are so assigned, whilst the theory is still maintained that an artillery officer of rank cannot command artil- lery, and if he does, it must be as a staff officer, and his orders must be given in the name of some general officer outside the artillery to give them binding force. This has degraded the arm and deprived it of officers essential to its efficiency, driven many of the best of them from the service, deprived those who remained of promotion, and has led to a slur being officially cast on a whole class of officers as being useless in General Orders, No. 126, 1862, War l)epartment, respecting field and staff officers of artillery. There was at the beginning of this war a special reason for adopting an anomalous organization; there has been none for continuing it after that special reasomi disappeared. But few artillery officers, and those mostly of the lower grades, had been imlstructe(l in battery duties; not half a dozen of them had ever commuanded artillery in battle. In the new requirements of artillery the field officers of volunteers were wholly uniustructed, and it was deemed proper in the first months of active operations to give to the officers who had been instructed the command of the batteries on the field. The (luties of field officers ~or chiefs of artillery were made purely administrative. The batteries were assigned to divisions then 12,000 strong, giving four batteriesone regular and three volunteerto each division, the captain of the regu- lar battery, an instructed officer, comnmnauding the four. As timne passed, battles were fought, the regular captains were appointed to staff duties or otherwise l)rolnoted and removed from the artillery, the volunteer chiefs of artillery became instructed in their duties, the divisions were reduced in strength, half their batteries were withdrawn, and a reserve for the corps placed under the command of the chiefs of artillery, the chief of artillery of the army being placed in command of the whole Page 86 86 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. tOnAP. LYITi. It is scarcely necessary to state 110W why that organization i~as not been carried out: the object of this paper is to have it restored and secured, and by authority that will make it binding upon officers of all ranks. I respectfully proceed to state the principles which, in my judgment, should be adopted in establishing the organization, assigning when necessary some of the reasons which commend them: First. The proper proportion of field artillery varies according to circumstances from one to five pieces to 1,000 men. In this army it has generally been fixed at three; it might,if efficiently organized, be placed at two or two and a quarter as a nunimum. The total amount of artillery should be fixed and maintained with- out regard to temporary increase and diminution of troops in the army. Two-thirds of the guns should be attached to the troops, the remainder being in reserve. The amount attached to troops is that which they would ordinarily require; for emergencies they can draw on the reserve artillery. Second. In attaching artillery to troops it should be laid down as a principle that iio artillery command should be of less strength than would warrant the assignment to it of a complete staff, administrative and military, in order that all needful supplies may be insured to it and its discipline and instruction secured. Whether the guns shall be assigned to divisions or arumy corps will therefore depend on the strength of the divisions. In tIme artillery, as in other arms, concentration is favorable to discipline, instruction, effi- ciency, and especially to economy. But as artillery is attached imme- diately to the troops of other arms as anxiliaries and for special pur- poses its operations are subordinate to those of the cavalry and infan- try, concentration must not be carried so far as to deprive the troops of the speedy use of their guns when needed. When, therefore, the artillery is attached to the army corps and circumstances make it desirable, batteries may be, when near the enemy, camped or marched with the divisions, but unless the divisions are detached to a distance from the corps, the batteries should draw their supplies, & c., from the artillery train. They should always be considered a part of the artil- lery brigade, to which they should return as soon as circumstances permit. It is advisable in our service that the artillery should be attached to army corps. A division of less than 10,000 men would not have suffi- cient artillery with it to warrant a distinct administrative staff. There should be a major to every two batteries of six or three batteries of four guns each, and a superior officer, a lieutenant-colonel or colonel, to every four or six batteries. To each artillery brigade attached to an army corps there should be assigned a force of foot artillery for the various duties, artillery and other, required of foot troops; this force would vary according to circumstances from two to three battalions. The artillery of the corps should be under the command of a general officer of artillery, to whom all orders for its employment should be given. When two or more batteries are detached to a division they should be under the command of a field officer, who reports and sustains the same relations to the division commander that the chief of artillery does to the corps commander. (See paragraph 489, General I~egula- tions.) The grand park of the artillery, consisting of the ordnance stores, tools, reserve ammunition, and small-arms, & c., the batteries of reserve and of position, and a force of foot artillery, should be under the command of a general officer, who reports direct to the chief of artillery Page 87 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 87 The batteries should be organized into one or more brigades. The store and ammunition trains should be under a field officer, with a competent command of foot artillery, to insure the prompt execution of all duties connected with them. Such an organization as the grand park is indis- pensable to a large army. It enables the corps to move unincumbered with a mass of material which they could not otherwise dispense with, and permits of a safe reduction of the total amount of such material with the army. Its reserve batteries furnish the means of replacing inefficient ones in the corps and of refitting the latter. When the reserve artillery of this army was broken up this summer it was found necessary to retain the ammunition trains, and during the summer no less than eleven batteries which had become surplus with the corps, but were needed with the army, were sent to these trains. The want of the previous organization was immediately felt. There should be with the park not only a general supply of artillery, but also of small ammunition. By such an arrangement 100 rounds per maim 40 on the person, 40 with the corps reserve, and 20 in the grand park would probably supply the wants of the most severe campaign, the park promptly replacing the expenditures of the corps after a battle. The principal duties of the reserve batteries are: First. To re-enforce the artillery of corps and on the line of battle. Second. To occnpy positions as the necessity arises, without depriv- ing the troops of their own batteries. Third. To relieve disabled batteries. Fourth. To act in a mass upon important points, or in certain cases to replace large bodies of infantry or cavalry, which can thus be rendered disposable. A battle rarely takes place without showing the necessity of a reserve of artillery for some or all of these purposes. The siege train, if small, could also be attached to time gramid park; if large, it would report direct to the chief of artillery, who would furnish its guards, escorts, and additional troops for the service of the train wheim its operations required them. For the service of the artillery a certain force of foot troops is ividis- pensable. The duties required are the defined duties of foot artillery, and require for the performance of most of tlmein specially instructed troops. This force furnishes details of men to the field batteries when shorthanded, parties for the construction of works on the field and for other works, for the construction and repair of magazines, the fabrica- tion of gabions, facines, & c., for preparing and laying platforms, and for all labors requiring special instruction and practice to insure rapid- ity and perfection, for the construction of stables, shelters , & c., for the animals of the large trains, for guards attached to the artillery, for escorts on the march, pioneers, and all other duties for which infantry must now be detailed. For detached works or lines, such as those now held by us, it will furnish the garrisons so f~r as its numbers will per- mit, or, at least, the men necessary to serve the guns with which they are armed, without drawing upon the corps for the field batteries, which should always be free to move with them. It would thus save the increase of field batteries to meet such duties, with the enormous expense it entails, and the injury to the batteries themselves, and to the extent of its own numbers furnish the garrisons, and so far obviate the neces- sity of drawing on the infantry division. It is very certain that the nature, extent, variety, amid amount of duty involved are fully sufficient to demand this special force and have not been fully appreciated in our army. For the purposes named a reg Page 88 88 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. ment of foot artillery is required in the artillery command of each army corps. For the grand park of an army of 100,000 men two or three regiments, at least, should be furnished. When these troops are not required for their special duties they can be used in battle as a reserve for infantry purposes. They would thus act together, be exceedingly useful, and inspired by esprit de corps on whatever duties employed. With so large a force of heavy (foot) artillery it is but just to provide fully for the artillery duties before supplying these troops to infantry divisions. The whole artillery force should be nuder the command of the chief of artillery of the army, who should be responsible for its organization, equipment, instruction, supplies, discipline, and efficiency, with the necessary staff and powers to meet his responsibilities. This unity of command and administration is necessary to insure uniformity through- out the army, system, and economy, as well as efficiency, to enable the whole arm to be used according to circumstances to the greatest advan- tage, to enable the experience of this arm, now frittered away, to be made useful, to insure uniformity of rewards and punishment in the adminis- tration, and to protect the interest of all. Without this unity that esprit de corps, without which the highest efficiency cannot be obtained, is impossible. The artillery serving immediately with the troops should be con- sidered as detached to the corps or division and not forming an integral portion of it. It should be subjected to the ordinary rules of service of troops so situatedthat is, the commander should have the fighting use of the batteries, the artillery commander making his stated returns, & c., to artillery headquarters, which should centralize all that relates to the personnel and material of the artillery of the army, as in the French service, upon which ours is modeled, as well as in all other armies of whose organization I have any knowledge. There is no necessity of any conflict of authority or powers in this case any more than in the engi- neers, as the general instAictions for the employment of both emanate from the general commanding an army, to whom the chiefs of artillery and engineers as well as corps commanders are directly responsible. HENRY J. HUNT, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. JANUARY 10, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: * * * * * * * Johnsons division is all in our front in its old position from Battery 35 to the Appomattox, and no movement has taken place of any part of it. it was reported from Butlers department that this division had gone south. Much comp~aint regarding clothing, blankets, & c., and scant rations. JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 10, 186510.25 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Nine deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General Page 89 ChAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 89 HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 10, 1865. (Received 945 a. Iii.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assi8tant Adjutant General: Nothing to report for twenty-four hours. last past. II. 0-. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Major-General BUTLER, Wa8hington, January 10, 186512 m. Fort Monroe, Va.: No principal report of yours on the Wihnington expedition has ever reached the War Department, as I am informed there. A preliminary report did reach here, bat was returned to General Grant at his request. Of conrse, leave to publish cannot be given withont inspection of the paper, and not then if it should be deemed to be detrimental to the public service. A. LINCOLN. STEAMSHIP MCCLELLAN, Brig. Gen. ~. A. RAwLINS, Beai~fort, N. C., January 10, 1865. Chief of Staff, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the fleet of transports containing the troops under my command sailed from Fort Monroe on Friday, the 6th instant, at 4 a. in. Owiiig to the extremely heavy weather experienced none of the vessels arrived oil this port until Sun- day morning, the 8th. During that day they all, with the exception of the steamer Tonawanda, which has on board a portion of General Ames division, were collected at the appointed rendezvous twenty miles off the harbor. The Tonawanda has not yet reported. I came into the harbor with my own vessel, waited npomi Admiral Porter, noti- fied him of the approach of the land forces, and said to him that they wonld be ready to proceed to their destination at any time when he should be ready. The admiral informed me that the weather was such as to preclude the possibility of making a landing, and that, in his .iudg- ment, some time wonld elapse before there would be a favorable oppor- tunity. That opportunity has not yet occurred; but I have givemi him fully to understand that the land forces are and will be ready to move at ammy and at all times. This delay may cause us some inconvenience as regards coal, as the vessels lying off the land are, of course, consumning fuel, and there is scarcely any here belonging to either the army or the navy. Before I left Fort Monroe I directed Colonel Dodge, chief quar- termaster, to make arrangements to have two coal schooners follow us immediately, and since our arrival here I have instructed him to send for enongh additional coal to resupply all the vessels. Fortunately I found here a schooner which was loaded with commissary stores for the former expedition. She has on board 200,000 rations, so that there will be no embarrassment on that score. Water is being procured fromn the Newport River for the supply of those ships which have no condensers. Four of the transports received damage in the gale, which has corn Page 90 90 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. pelled them to come in here to refit. They are all, however, fully repaired, or will be so to-day. From the present appearance of the weather we shall be able to proceed to morrow or next day. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFR1~D H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding Expedition. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, No. 3. } Flag-ship McClellan, Jannary 10, 1865. I. On sailing from this point the transports will follow the naval ves- sels in the following order: McClellan, Atlantic, Varuna, Tonawaiida, De Molay, Thames, Champion, Commodore Du Pont, Montank, Idaho, Enterpe, L. C. Livingston, Prometheus, General Lyon, Califoriiia~ Weybosset, North Point, Russia, Blackstone. The distance between the ships will be as small as is consistent with safety. Due notice will be given of the time of sailing. In case of the dispersion of the fleet the vessels will proceed to a point from four to five miles above New Inlet, N. C. II. When the troops are to be disembarked, Admiral Porter intends to place a division of his fleet close to and parallel with the beach, to cover the landing. Of this division the Brooklyn will be the leading (southernmost) vessel. As soon as this division has taken np its posi- tion and anchored, the transports, except the North Point and the Blackstone, will move in and anchor in a line parallel with and 200 yards outside of it, the Atlantic opposite the Brooklyn, the other ves- sels following the Atlantic in the order prescribed for sailing from here. The North Point and the Blackstoue will lie on the right of the second line of the naval vessels and await orders. Should any vessel be missing, the next in order will close up arid occupy her position. The troops will be landed in the navy boats and in the surf-boats placed on the traiisports. Tliese last-named boats must have their hoisting tackle ready hooked on as the shore is approached, and must be got into the water as soon as the anchors are dropped. Details of sailors will be sent from the navy to man them. Probably the steam- tug Ehiza Hancox will be sent to tbe Atlantic to receive the troops on board of her and take them close to the shore before they are put into the boats. The Hancox, however, must not be waited for. III. The men will V-nd in heavy marching order, with three days cooked rations and forty rouimds of ammunition. The utmost expedi- tion must be used in landing, and a~s soon as they are on shore the regi- ments will be formed ready to move. Comnmanding officers are cau- tioned to get their men in hand as rapidly as possible and under no pretense to permit straggling from the ranks. By command of Brevet Major-General Terry: ADRIAN TERRY, Assistant Adjutant- General. Description of Fort Fisher, as seen December 25, 1864. Fort Fisher, from all we saw and heard, is a square, bastioned field- work, with fronts of about 250 yards in le:igth~ and with strong relief ditch and glacis on every side but the water-front, a stockade runnin Page 91 Cwip. LFIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 91 from the counterscarp of the north front to the waters edge. The only front of which we had accurate observation and report is the north front, and on this there is an elevated bastion next to the sea and along the curtain flanks and faces were counted seventeen guns, with a traverse rising apparently six feet above the parapet between each pair of guns. These traverses are so large that they are believed to be bomb- proofs. The work is situated on the point of land between the sea and Cape Fear River, where the point has a width of about 800 yards, and about 100 yards from the ocean beach, the ground immediately around the work being well seen. A rebel prisoner states that the work is entered by a bridge about twenty feet long over a ditch from eight to ten feet in depth. It is believed, frc m the reports of naval officers and what we saw, that on the sea front all of the guns are casemated. We believe the work to be fully garrisoned, as they had three regiments of Kirk- lands brigade, Hokes division, in reserve upon Sugar Loaf Hill. The proper method of defense of this work, subjected as it was to a heavy shell fire, would be to put all the men into the bornbproofs, excepting a few as lookouts and sentinels, and keep them there until the very moment of assault. This method seems to have been the one adopted, as the fire on our skirmishers, so long as the naval fire con- tinued, was very slight. The moment that ceased the musketry fire became ver~~ heavy and was accompanied by grape, canister, and shell. This paper was given to me at Fort Monroe by Major-General Butler on the night of January 10, 1865. Ii. L. ABBOT. WINCHESTER, January 10, 18651.30 p. m. Lieutenant.General GRANT: I am afraid the delay of Grovers division at Baltimore will be annoying to you. I cannot account; for it, as I supposed from the tele- gram of the Secretary of War that everything would be in readiness. General Grover telegraphs me that he is only partly off, and that it is all on account of the transportation. I respectfully forward a copy of the telegram on which the troops were sent to Baltimore. WASHINGTON, January 5, 186510 a. m. Major-General SHERIDAN: Transports left City Point yesterday for Baltimore sufficient to carry 4,000 infantry. They should reach Baltimore to-day, and will, no doubt, be there in time for the troops. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. The weather is very broken. I have nothing new to report. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WINCHESTER, January 10, 1865. (Received 2.55 p. in.) Major-General AUGUR: What did you find out from the ten men supposed to be Mosbys, captured by General Wallace, and what did the whole affair mean ~? P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General Page 92 92 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., A ND PA. [CHAP. LYTIL HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CoRPS, Washington, D. C., January 10, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division: The men arrested all claim to be privates in a Maryland regiment (rebel). The person who gave the information which led to their cap- ture, and who knows them, says they are Mosbys men, and that two or three of them are officers, one a captain. This person is now absent on an important mission. As soon as he returns the matter will be investigated. The intention was to run a train off the track and rob the passengers. The detective was unable to reach me in time, and therefore gave the information to General Wallaces troops. Have you decided yet about the cavalry regiment coming to the Potomac ~ C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Col. WILLIAM GAMBLE, January 10, 1865. Commanding Separate Brigade, Fairfax Court-House: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that you estab- lish at Freedom Hill a post to be garrisoned by one company of heavy artillery, to be taken from the present garrison at Prospect Hill. The post should be assigned to the command of the senior officer at Vienna. The company should move early on the morning of the 11th of January. Very respectfully, colonel, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND INFANTRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Col. JACOB HIGGINS, Cumberland, Md., January 10, 1865. Commanding Second Brigade, Second Infantry Division, Department of West Virginia, New Creek, W. Va.: COLONEL: You will send a scout of 200 men, in command of a relia- ble officer, up the valley of the North Fork via Petersburg to the Mouth of Seneca. The detachment will take ten days rations of hard bread, sngar, coffee, and salt, and will rely upon the country for beef and forage. When cattle and forage are taken for the use of the troops vouchers conditional ou proof of loyalty must be given by the proper officer, and the same reported to the assistant quartermaster and coin- missary of subsistence on the return of the expedition. The officer in command will open communication with Captain Boggs, of State troops, near the Month of Seneca, and be governed in his action during his scout by information he may receive from him and others. If he deems it advisable, after consulting with Captain Boggs, he will call to his assistance all the State troops in Pendletou County and attack the rebel force at or near Franklin. The detachment will return at the expiration of ten days. The officer will be directed to keep you advise Page 93 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 93 of his movements from time to time. The commanding officer will also be directed to ascertaiii, from consultation with Captain Boggs and other prominent citizens, whether there are in Pendleton County and within reach citizens of secession proclivities who have been known to give aid and comfort or information to the rebels and if so to arrest and bring in from two to six of the most prominent, that they may be held as hostages for Union political prisoners. The foregoing is by direction of Brevet Major-General Kelley. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. MELVIN, Assistant Adjutant- General. STEAMER MCCLELLAN, Beaufort, N. C., January 11, 1865. DEAR RAWLINS: We had a very violent gale all day yesterday, which now is over, and the admiral proposes to start to-night. We are to land where we did before, the navy taking charge of the debarka- tion, and the admiral says he can put the whole fotee ashore in an hour. He is rather too sanguine about most things, and we shall do well if we are all ashore in three or four hours from the commencement. In case there is nothing to prevent an assanit the admiral proposes making one in boats on the sea front at the same time we try it on the land front. I trust we may have good weather now, for the fleet of trans- ports imow is down to five days~ coal, no more having arrived, and bad weather would force them to come back here and wait for it. I see the papers state that a privateer ran out from Wilmington on the night of December 25, and the admiral says the iron-clad they had is sunk, and that now there is nothing inside. I trust this is so, for it will be a great convenience to have them out of the way. I wrote to General Palmer, asking about the rebs having a force at Kinston, but have received no reply yet. Now, if you will quit swearing for two days an~l pray half as hard, I think well have good weather and good luck. Yours, very truly, C. B. COMSTOCK. CITY POINT, January 11, 1865. (Received 5.45 p. in.) Major-General MEADE, Commanding: General Grant desires that you will please send General Williams down. The order in the case will be sent you to-morrow. JNO. A. IRAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAc, January 11, 1865. ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY, Washington: SIR: I have the honor to request that Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. Webb, brigadier-geneial volunteer service, who has returned to this army afte Page 94 94 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP.LFIII. an absence of several months on account of a wound received iu battle, may be assigned to duty according to his brevet rank. I have appointed General Webb temporary chief of my staff, but it is my intention to assign him to the command of a division at an early day. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. U. MEADE, Major- aeneral, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 17. Washington, January 11, 1865. * * * * * * * 42. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. J. Madill, U. S. Volunteers, is, by direction of the President, hereby assigned to duty according to his brevet rank. He will report in person to Brevet Major-General Miles, commanding First Division, Second Army Corps, for assignment to the command of a brigade. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant. General. SPECiAL ORDERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 9. City Point, Va., January 11, 1865. I. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. Ord, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina, will, with competent officers of his own selection, at once relieve from duty and return to their respective commands all officers on duty as provost-marshals or assistant provost-marshals within the Department and Army of the James, excepting those on duty with corps, divisions, and brigades iii the field. He will also cause an immediate imispectionto bemade of all prisons and placeswhere persons are confined in said department and army, and the case of each person confinedin such prisons carefully investigated and inquired into. He will promptly discharge all persons found to be improperly confined in any of the prisons, under such restrictions as he may deem proper. He will report the executiomi of this order to these headquarters. II. Brig. Gen. S. Williams, U. S. Volunteers, assistant adjutant- general, U. S. Army, is hereby relieved from dnty with the Army of the Potomac, and will report in person to these headquarters for orders. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant. General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 11. January 11, 1865. * * * * * * * 7. The leave of absence granted to Maj. Gen. U. K. Warren, volun- teer service, by Special Orders, No 356, of December 31, 1864, from these headquarters, is extended five days. 8. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. Webb, of volunteers, having reported at these headquarters, is assigned to duty for the present as chief of staff to major-general commanding Page 95 CHAP. Lviii.] 95 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 9. Maj. William IR. Driver, assistant adjutant-general, having reported to these headquarters in accordance with paragraph 52, of Special Orders, No. 476, of December 31, 1864, from the War Department, is assigned to duty with Bvt. Maj. Gen. G. Mott, commanding rphird Division, Second Army Corps. * * * * * * By command of Major-General iVicade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 11, 186510.25 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. A. A. HUMPIThEYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 11, 186512.50 p. m. Colonel DUANE, Chi~t~ Engineer, Army of the Potomac: Colonel Hazard, chief of artillery, reports to me that the parapets of all the redouts require some repair as well as the magaziiies; that the magazines of Forts Fisher and Welch must be rebuiltthe first entirely, the second chiefly; the first is already provided for; the second, and the repairs generally of the works,. Colonel Hazard can assign artillery officers to attend to, if you will have a non-commissioned officer ordered to report to him for each of the works in the front and rear line to see that the details of the works are properly attended. An engineer officer might take the general charge of all. If, however, you prefer the engineer officers to take the matter in exclusive charge, let me know. I have riot yet received from the division commanders the reports respecting the condition of the intrenchments held by them. I have sent for that of the First Division, but as there is some delay in receiving it I do not wait longer. I understand one has gone forward to yoar office. A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 11, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: I have the honor to request that Bvt. Brig. Gen. John Ramsey, col- onel Eighth New Jersey Volunteers, may be assigned to the command of the Fourth Brigade, First Division, of this corps. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding Page 96 96 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA, [CHAP. LYIIL HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, January 11, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: GENERAL: While visiting my picket-line this afternoon I became aware of an attack upon the troops of the First Division of this corps while on their return from a foraging tour. I immediately investigated the affair and received the inclosed reports from Brevet Maj or-General Griffin, commanding division. The attack took place about one-fourth of a mile beyond Warwick Swamp on the Jerusalem plank road, while the party, consisting of about 250, was returning. Information was received from citizens that two camps of the enemys cavalry were located in the vicinity of the place of attack. The attacking party con- sisted of about twenty. The afftdr has been reported to the command- ing officer of the cavalry division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brevet Major- General, Commanding Fifth A rmy Corps. [Thclosure.] HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, January 11, 18656.30 p. m. [Colonel LOCKE :1 COLONEL: I understand that a party from General Gregorys bri- gade, who passed out of our lines this morning for the purpose of pro- curing truck, & c., was attacked beyond Warwick Swamp and an officer killed, as well as several men wounded. General Gregory, as I under- stand, passed out subsequently with a party to recover the body. Please call upon General Griffin for a report in regard to this affair. Respectfully, yours,. - S. W. CRAWFORD, Brevet Major- General. [First indorsement. 1 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 11, 1865. Respectfully referred to Brevet Major-General Griffin, commanding First Division, for report. Please return this letter with report. The messenger will wait. By command of Brevet Major-General Crawford: FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. [Second indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS FTRST DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, January 11, 1865. Respectfully state that there is no information at these headquarters that the command which went from Second Brigade headquarters (General Gregorys) for forage was attacked. CHAS. GRIFFIN, Brevet iliftjor- General Page 97 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 97 [Sub-inclosure.] HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST Div., FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Capt. WILLIAM FOWLER, January 11, 1865. Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division: CAPTAIN: The foraging party that left these headquarters this morn- ing was attacked by a band of guerrillas, and in the skirmish Capt. Burrage Rice was killed and one private wounded. The body of Cap- tain. Rice was recovered and brought to these headquarters. The train was brought through in safety loaded with forage. Very respectfully, E; M. GREGORY, Brevet Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 11, 1865. General BAXTER Gommandin~g Third Division: GENERAL: The general commanding the corps desires me to request that you will at once cause the woods in front of the picket-line of the division to be slashed, and where the line crosses the open field the chain of sentinels be protected by an abatis. I have the honor to be, very respectffilly, youir obedient servant FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, General S. WILLIAMS; January 11, 1865. (Received 9.13 a. in.) Assistant Adjutant-General Nothing to report. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, January 11, 1865. Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: Have the honor to report five deserters from the enemy; two of above are sergeants. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, & C., Fort Monroe, January 11, 186510.45 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have asked the President for permission to publish my report of the Wilmington affair. He answers that no report has ever been received at the War Department. You told me you had forwarded it. Has it been lost again ~? If so, I have a copy. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. 7 R RYOL XLVI, PT I Page 98 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. 98 CITY POINT, VA., January 11, 1865. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: General Grant telegraphed uo Captain Leet to return your repoi t to enable him to revise his indorsement on it. It will arrive here probably to-day, and will be returned by special messenger to-morrow. He has requested its publication. .TNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRs. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 11, 18656 p. m. General U. S. GRANT, City Point: Have made the examination of Bermuda front. A North Carolina brigade has taken the place of Corses, which came to the north of the James. There appears a reserve force near where the Petersburg rail- road crosses Deep Creek. I will call in person to-morrow and give other details. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 11, 1865. (Received 10.40 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: General Butler sends up 700 of his parting order printed. I told him before he left there was no objection to his taking leave in an order, but it contains these words: I have refused to order the sacrifice of such soldiers, and I am relieved from your command. The wasted blood of my men does not stain my garments. For my actions I am responsible to God and my country. Shall I send this out? E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 11, 186510.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. E.G. C. ORD: General Grant directs me to say to you that General Butlers parting orders may be sent out. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 11, 186512 m. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina: Six deserters have just come in from Battery Semmes. They are wet, and I have allowed them to remain here for to-night. They repor Page 99 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 99 what others dothat thereis a rumor that Richmond is to be evacuated. One reports that Captaiu Read, formerly of the Florida, is going to make a reconnaissauce of Dutch Gap iu a night or two in a small boat. That is all the information that I could gain from them. They will be forwarded to-morrow moruing. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ) HDQRS. SECOND BRIG.. FIRST Div., TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS. No. 1. Steamer General Lyon, January 11, 1865. I. The three steamers containing this brigade will, in pursuance of instructions, probably sail this evening, and on arriving at the point of landing the boats will anchor in the following order, commencing on the left: General Lyon, Weybosset, California. On arriving on shore each commander of regiments will at once form and await orders. II. The troops will land in heavy marching order, and with forty rounds of cartridges per man. III. The troops on each transport of this brigade will be prepared to land as soon as the transports anchor, and will land as expeditiously as possible.. By command of Col. J. C. Abbott: E. LEWIS MOORE, Geptain and Assistant Adjutant- General. JANUARY 11, 1865. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: All quiet along the, line of my command. Three of Whites battalion weic captured yesterday evening; will be sent in to-morrow. Respectfully, WM. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. IIEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-General FORSYTH, January 11, 1865. Chief of Staff, Winchester: I send you a rebel sergeant captured at his fathers house near Bun- ker Hill. Belongs to MeCauslands brigade, which he left at Hampton on the Strasburg railway. Refuses to say how he passed our lines or to give any information. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, Lieutenant-Colonel SEELEY, - January 11, 1865. Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you send a force of not less than 300 men, under an efficient officer, at 8 a. m. to-mor Page 100 100 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV~. row, to make a reconnaissance up the Front Royal pike to gain all the information possible of the enemy toward White Post, Miliwood, Front Royal, and Milford. An effort should be made to learn if the enemy has any force as low down as Millwood or White Post. If they have, the main force should not go much beyond Cedarville; in any case leaving a picket on the Mill- wood road near that place. If no danger is apprehended from that direction, let the officer proceed to the crossing of the Shenandoah, and endeavoring first to learn if there is any force at Front Royal, if it is prudent or if he considers it best, with the whole force. At least one days forage and rations should be taken. If definite information of the enemy is obtained, the command can return early on the 13th. The officer in command will be instructed that the o1)ject is specially to obtain information of the enemys where- abouts, movements, force, & c., but if he finds anything that he can dis. perse, let him do it; the greatest vigilance and energy is enjoined. A similar force from Reserve Brigade is sent toward Strasburg. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. DANA, Assistant Adjutant- General. CuMBERLAND, January 11, 18655.15 p. m. Major-General CIRooK, ffarper~s Ferry, Th.: The following particulars of the capture of Beverly just received: CLARKSBTJRG, January 11. Captain Thomson, of EigI~th Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, has just arrived at Buck- hannon from Beverly, and reports camp surprised this morning before day; Lieu- tenant-Colonel Youart and ileutenant-colonel Thirty-fourth captured, with at least two-thirds of the command. Major Butters, Thirty-fourth, is on the road to this place with about 125 men. Captain Thomson thinks Philippi will be attacked to-morrow morning. Saw a woman living this side of Beverly, by the name of Mrs. Kittle, who told him she was at Carricks Ford yesterday and saw 2,200 cavalry, rebel. Contra- dicts a report of their being all infantry, and says they are all cavalry. Saw two squadrons on the Philippi road. Bridge at Beverly destroyed, but there is a ford below, toward which he saw force of cavalry moving when he left. Went to the river just before starting for this place, and asked a guard on opposite side what force it was; reply, Witchers and Imbodens. Wagon train has just returned to this place. I have a scout of twenty men on road toward Beverly. H. C. RIZER, Major. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. General Kelley is doing all he can and is making all arrangements possible to prevent the capture of any other posts. I have ordered part of Duvals command to be ready to move to any point by railroad at a moments notice, if needed. I hardly think they will attack any other post, although they may do so. Respectfully, ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Jlfajor and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 101 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 101 Major-General CRooK, CIIMBERLAND, January 11, 1865. Harpers Ferry, Va.: The commanding officer at Phulippi telegraphs that the rebels, 1,800 strong, are moving upon that post. This is not thought to be correct. He will get the regiment off for Grafton as soon as possible. Grafton is sixteen miles from Pliilippi. IROBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CUMBERLAND, January 11, 18659.30 p. m. Major-General CROOK, ilarpers Ferry, Va.: One regiment of General Duvals command will start for Grafton within two hours; another xviii probably get off by 4 or 5 oclock for Clarksburg. Respectftilly, EOBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CU1~IBERLAND, Mm, January 11, 18658.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. I. II. DUVAL, Commanding First Infantry Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that yon have one large regiment report at the railroad depot with the very least possible delay, to go to Grafton; the cars are now waiting for them. The regi- ment will probably be gone some three days. They need move nothing more than is absolutely necessary for their personal comfort. Let this regiment report as soon as possible. Brevet Major-General Kelley will give the commanding officer additional instructions. You will also hold one large regiment ready to move within a few hours, say by 2 or 3 oclock to-imight. Further orders will be sent you. They will also move by cars, and should not take anything more than is necessary for their personal comfort. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, IIOBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CUMBERLAND, MD., January 11, 1865. Brig. Gen. I. II. DuvAL, Commanding First Infantry Division: GENERAL: You will direct one regiment of your command (a large regiment) to report to-morrow morning at daylight at the railroad depot, for the purpose of embarking for Clarksburg. The camps will be left, and only such things as are necessary for the actual comfort of the men during their absence will be taken. They will probably be gone about three days. The officer in command will report in person to Brevet Major-General Kelley for further and full instructions to-morrow even- ing. By command of Major-General Crook: ItOBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 102 102 N. AND SE. VA, N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 11,1865. Brevet Major-General KELLEY, Cumberland, Md.: The following just received from Buckhaunon: Telegraph repairer just in from Beverly road reports Beverly attacked at 4 oclock this morning by 1,000 rebels. Beverly reported burned. H. C. 1iIZER, Major, Commanding. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 11, 18652 p. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland: Two men of the Eighth Ohio Cavalry have reached Buckliannon. They report Beverly surprised at about 3 oclock this morning. Rebels had surronnded the quarters when they left. They feel confident of the capture of Beverly. They saw great quantity of smoke when seven miles from Beverly on the mountains, and suppose the place burned. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding Forces. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 11, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, C~imberland: Stragglers ace coming into Bnckhannon. One of them reports the rebels moving on Philippi. Is it not probable that this rebel force is the same reported at Petersburg December 20 as moving toward West Union? Am of opinion that re-enforcements should be sent to Grafton and Clarksburg. General Lightburn is here, and concurs in this opinion. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding. CLAEK5BURC, W. VA., January 11, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland, Nd.: The men who ieached Buckhannon from Beverly say the rebel force was infantry, and held the breast-works and Philippi road, leaving the only way of escape toward Buckhannon. I am of opinion the force is cavalry, dismounted out of town. Had advised my outposts and road troops before receiving your order to do so. N. WILKiNSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade Page 103 CHAP. LVIII] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 103 BUCKHANNON, W. VA., January 11, 1865. Col. N. WILKINSON, Clarksburg: Rebels approached Beverly on Daniels road from east of the town. Captain Evans, of Eighth [Ohio Cavalry], has just arrived. Says he was the last man that left there. Says it was a complete surprise, owing to the camp-guard being deficient. Most of the command cap- tured in their quarters. II. C. RIZER, Major. BUCKHANNON, W. VA., January 11, 1865. Col. N. WILKINSON, Clarksburg: Two men belonging to the Eighth Ohio Cavalry have just arrived; report Beverly surprised at about 3 oclock this morning. Rebels had surrounded the quarters when they left. They feel confident they have captured Beverly. Met wagon train about twelve miles from here. Suppose it turned back, as the wagon-master was informed of what had occurred. Say they saw a great quantity of smoke when seven miles from Beverly on the monutain. Suppose the place to be burned. II. C. RIZER, Major. CLARKSBIJRL~, W. V A., January 11, 1865. Major PEIRPOINT, Crafton: It is reported that Beverly was attacked and burned by rebels this morning. Send messenger immediately to Philippi, with directions that if forced to fall back, to take all the plank off the bridge and move toward Clarksburg or Webster, as may be most practicable. Advise your whole command to be on the alert. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. BALTIMORE, Mm, January 11, 18652.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Transportation for 800 men of Grovers command still lacking. The Oriental hourly expected. I have hurried the quartermaster and all parties, and if there were any ocean-going steamers here would seize them,but we know of none this side of Fort Monroe,if there are any there. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General, Volunteers Page 104 104 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYJIL CITY POINT, VA., January 11, 18655.50 p. m. Maj. Gen. LEW. WALLACE, Baltimore, ltd.: You are authorized and directed to retain the Eleventh Indiana Regiment at Baltimore as a part of your command. By connuand of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. BALTIMORE, MD., Jan nary 11, 186510 a. rn. Brevet Brigadier:General FORSYTH, (Received 12 in.) Chief of AStaff, Winchester, Va.: I dont know. I sent off the first load of 1,500 men yesterday. No more boats ready, but probably will be to-day. One boat had not arrived last night; it will have to coal after it gets here. It takes us about three hours to load a boat after it is ready. There is no time lost on our part. C. GROVER, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, Mn., January 11, 1865. (Received 3.30 p. in.) Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Winchester, Va.: I think I ought to goon th~ last boat,unless you know of some rea- son for my going in person sooner. The boat I go on will hold 1,200 men; it will be ready to-morrow. Shall I in person wait till my whole command is provided for ~ Shall save some men by so doing. C. GROVER, Brevet ]Jiliajor- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 11, 1865. (Received 6.30 p. in.) Brevet Major-General GROVER, Baltimore, Md.: Your dispatch is received. You may use your discretion as to time of starting yourself. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 12, 1865. (Received 8.45 p. in.) Don. C. A. DANA, Assistant & eretary of War: The Richmond papers just received; they say: There is no telegraphic news from any quarter, owing to the lines being down between Greenshorough and Danville. The freshet of the late rains has been very great along the Piedmont Railroad, and is said to have washed away a couple of bridges, which will be repaired in a few days. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 105 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 105 CITY POINT, VA., January 12, 186511 a. in. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: You may direct the batteries of Schofields corps to be left behind. I think, however, it may be advisable for him to bring two companies of artillerists to each division, to be fitted up here, if necessary. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 12, 186512.15 p. m. (Received 1 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: If Col. W. A. Nichols can be spared I wish you would have him ordered to the Army of the Potomac as assistant adjutant-general. I have relieved General Williams, and put him on my staff as inspector- general, having particular duties which I have selected him to per- form. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 12, 18652.30 p. m. (Received 5.10 p. in.) Col. S. L. BROWN, Quartermaster- Generals Office: Your dispatch received. I am glad to see you have so much en route hither, but if it were all here to-day we would have only twenty- two days grain and thirteen hay.. We have half rations of forage only for to-day RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General and Chief Quartermaster. CITY POINT, VA., January 12, 1865. Col. M. R. 1WoRGAN, Fort Monroe: Have any of the vessels loaded with troops from Baltimore made their appearance yet l U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORT MONROE, January 12, 18651 p. m. General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: About 1,500 men have arrived, with fifteen gallons of water to a man. By direction of General Grant, I ordered them ashore at Newport News while rations are being put on board and water replenished. Have I done rightly ~i M. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence Page 106 106 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIIL CITY POINT, VA., January 12, 18654 p. m. Col. N. H. MORC~AN, Port Monroe: All troops arriving at Fort Monroe from General Sheridans army will proceed, as fast as the vessels can get on coal, water, arid rations, to Savannah, Ga., and report to Major-General Sherman for orders and, in the event General Sherman should have departed from there, they will report to Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster for orders. Each vessel trans- porting these troops will start the moment it is ready, and a copy of this order will be furnished by you to the officer in command of troops on board of each of said vessels, and also to the commanding officer of the whole of said troops. The greatest promptitude possible in their departure is required. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JOHN A. IRAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, VA., January 12, 1865. Brigadier-General HAWLINS Chief of Staff, Armies of the United States, City Point: GENERAL: Two steamersthe Ariel (973 men) and the Sedgwick (496 meu)have arrived. The troops were rationed up to to-morrow night. They have water at the rate of a gallon per man for fifteen days.. I will have issued some salt-water soap. I am not certain about the coal, but will be, and now believe they have on board some thir- teen to fifteen days coal. The division commander is not here, but gave the First Brigade orders to keep on hand four days rations, and to stay on board ship until. they got different orders from him or higher authority. By direction of General Grant I directed them to go on shore, as per inclosed copy of order. Colonel Washburn informed me that the division was waiting for transportation, and I concluded they would not be all here for two days at the earliest. In the meanwhile these transports will be rationed and filled up with water, the troops will be on board again with cooked rations for three days, I will sug- gest, and will have stretched their legs. If the division commander comes in the meanwhile he can do as he pleases. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence. P. S.The Baltic went up yesterday to Annapolis, ready for sea. She onght to take a brigade on board. M.ILM. [Inclosuro.] FORT MONROE, VA., January 12, 1865. Col. HENRY B. WASHBURN, 18th Indiana Vols., Comdg. 1st Brig., 2d Div., 19th Corps: Lieutenant-General Grant directs that you land your command at Newport News, and remain there until further orders from him or fro Page 107 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 107 your division commander. As soon as your troops are put on shore seud the steamers back to this place to the quartermaster, to be rationed and to have the supply of water replenished. M. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Commissary of Subsistence, Chief Commissary of Subsistence, Armies Operating against Richmond. (Copy for General iRawlins, chief of staff.) SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMIES OF TILE UNITED STATES, No. 10. City Point, Va., January 12, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. Williams, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby annonuced as acting inspector-general of the armies in the field, and will immediately enter upon duty as such. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL -ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPARTMENT, No. 7. Sarannah, Ga., January 12, 1865. The limits of the Department of the South are extended so as to embrace the State of North Carolina. The headquarters will remain at Hilton Head. The department will, until further instructions, be subject to the orders and control of Major-General Sherman. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEAD QUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 12. January 12, 1865. * * * * * * * 2. The battalion of the Eighth Delaware Volunteers now at City Point is assigned for the present to the command of the provost- marshal-general, and will be accounted for accordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 12, 186510.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLiAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report no changes in the disposition of this corn- inand since last report. Fonr deserters from the enemy came in last evening. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General Page 108 108 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 12, 1865. (Received 9.25 a. 111.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: The enemy fired yesterday and last night upon the party constract- ing abatis in front of the First Division, wounding one officer and three men. The work, however, was not stopped. Nothing else to report. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 12, 1865. (Received 10.20 a. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of staff: Nothing new on our front. No deserters yet reported. The late storm did much damage to the intrenchnients; these are being re- paired. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 12, 1865. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I would respectfully call the attention of the general commanding to the necessity of transferring the forage depot to this side of the James. The present interruption of the pontoon bridges may be frequently repeated now at this season. It is a matter under the control of the chief quartermaster. There is a little forage over on the other side to-day, but we cannot get it, although it is the first for three days, on account of the bridges. A temporary depot, at least, should be established on this side. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General, Commanding Division. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., Jan nary 12, 18659 a. m. (Received 9.30 a. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Major-General Crook reports that the small post at Beverly, W. Va., was surprise4 and captured just before daylight yesterday morning, the 11th instant. There seems to be a total want of discipline or soldierly qualities about troops in this section of country. I do not know the extent of the damage done but it cannot be very much. The enemys force was ~ band and deserters and stragglers from rebel army, so far as I can learn. I will send particulars as soon as received. General Crook has sent troops froni Cumberland to Grafton and Clarksburg. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 109 CHAP. LYIJI.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 109 GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 8. January 12, 1865. A Confederate soldier giving his name as John E. Boyd, caught within the lines of this army under circumstances which leave no doubt that he is a spy of the enemys, and his Conduct and manner since his capture confirming thisthe said John E. Boyd will, at 12 oclock, meridian, to-morrow, January 13, 1865, or as soon thereafter as prac- ticable, be hung by the neck until he is dead. The provost-marshal- general of this army is charged with the execution of this order. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., January 12, 1865. (Received 6.30 p. in.) Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have just learned that Governor Foote, of Mississippi, was yesterday arrested at Occoquan while on his way to our lines with his family, and taken back to Richmond. I have sent to Occoquan to bring in his wife, who is yet there and wishes to come in. The patrols report all quiet. H. II. WELLS, Col. and Provost-Marshal-General, Defenses South of the Potomac. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 12, 1865. Col. H. H. WELLS, Provost Marshal, & c., Alexandria: The President is desirous that no efforts should be spared to bring in at once Mrs. Foote and her family. He directs this to be impressed upon you. Is there any chance, from the. information in your posses- sion, for a pursuing party to overtake and recapture Governor Foote? What are the means in your possession for the pursuit, if there be hope of success? When precisely was the capture made, and by what party? Report fully all information on the subject you have. By order of the Secretary of War: JAS. A. HARDIE, Colonel, Inspector- General. ALEXANDRIA, January 12, 1865. (Received 9.20 p. in.) Col. J. A. HARDIE, Inspector- General: Governor Foote remained at Occoquan over one day for the water to go down so that he could cross. He was at the house of Mr. Hainmell, who is now here. Two rebel cavalry arrested him early yesterday, and impressed Hainmell and his team to carry him to Dumfries, which he did. Hainmell was pledged to secrecy, returned to Occoquan, an Page 110 110 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. brought here a lady refugee, who first gave the information which ilammell did not intend to give, but on being questioned he confirmed what she said. Governor Foote left Occoquan early yesterday morning, and must now be in Richmond. On receiving the above information I sent out Captain Pierson, with thirty well-mounted men, with instruc- tions to bring Mrs. Foote in. He left at 4.30 this p. in. I think the force ample, and it is remarkably well mounted and acquainted with the country. If there had been any hopes of overtaking Governor Foote I should have sent a party with horses to Dumfries by steamer and made a detour into the country toward Fredericksburg. I have still about thirty cavalry that can be used if required. Respectfully, H. II. WELLS, Cot. and Provost-Marshal- General, Defenses AS1Outh of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 12, 1865G p. in, Lieut. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief q,f Staff, Department of Washington: Reports received from the several posts on the line state all quiet. The following cavalry were sent out an hour ago on scouting duty: 200 from the Thirteenth New York in the direction of Leesburg, via Dranes- ville, on the Leesburg and Georgetown pike; 200 from the Sixteenth New York, to march by Hunters Mills, Fryii~g Pan, and Farinwell, to unite with the Thirteenth New York on the pike at the crossing of Goose Creek, and march thence via Leesbnrg, Mount Gilead, Mount- ville, returning by Aldie;, 400 from the Eighth Illinois, to march, via Warrenton and White Plains, to the vicinity of Middleburg, returning through Hopewell Gap, or in that vicinity. The object is to effectually scour the country and pick up the men furloughed by the enemy to steal horses, that are now reported to me as scattered through the country mentioned. W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. FAIRFAX COuRT--HousE, January 12, 18G5. (Received 8.10 p. in.) Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General: The marching of the scouting party from the Thirteenth and Six- teenth New York Cavalry, reported in my telegram two hours ago, is postponed until 5 p. m. to-morrow, to accompany a detective officer, on the application of Colonel Gansevoort. The Eighth Illinois had started two hours before this information reached me, other wise I would have detained that also; but it will not interfere with the other arrangement in a difthrent direction. WM. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Page 111 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 111 CIJMBERLAND, January 12, 18659.20 a. m. Major-General CROOK, Harpers Ferry, Va.: The following has just been received from Col. N. Wilkinson,by General Kelley: I have the following from commanding officer at Phulippi, dated 11 last night: General Rosser made the attack on Beverly with 700 men. It was a complete sur- prise. Lieutenant Swain, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, with ten mounted men, re- entered the town at 10 oclock, but was driven out by twenty-five rebels. At 12 oclock he represents the rebels retreating on Staunton pike, and that they fear being cut off by General Torbert. The command at Philippi will start for Beverly this morning, and on arrival will send messenger back with particulars. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. The Thirteenth Virginia has been ordered back and will go into camp. ROBT. P. KENNEDY, ]tiiajor and Assistant Adjutant- General. CUMBERLAND, January 12, 186510 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Frederick, Md.: No full report from Beverly as yet. Will send it as soon as it is received. A party has gone to Beverly who will send in full particulars. Will send you as soon as received. Did you get my dispatch this morning ~ GEORGE CROOK, Major- General. WINCHESTER, January 12, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Cumberland: I got yonr dispatch of this morning. Send (letails as soon as pos- sible. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CUMBERLAND, January 12, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Harpers Ferry, Va.: A telegram from Colonel Wilkinson gives fnrther news. He seems to think that the enemy intend to attack Clarksburg or Grafton, and says he caminot hold those places if attacked by them in force, as his garrisons are small. I have just ordered one of Duvals regiments to go to Grafton, but will stop it until I hear from you. Please answer. This regiment can go up without very great inconvenience, as we have stores in the cars, and it may save some more captures. 1 wait to hear from you. ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 112 112 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. JATILI. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 12, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland: The wagon-master of Captain Phelps arrived here at 1 oclock from near Beverly, via Phulippi. He reports that the enemys advance were firing on my pickets at Philippi between 3 and 4 oclock yesterday afternoon. Says he saw and heard this when this side of Philippi. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 12, 1865. J. B. FORD, Esq., Agent Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Wheeling: My latest intelligence is that the rebels, after capturing Beverly, moved toward Staunton, or in that direction. Have sent scouts to Beverly, and will report to you all necessary details. Am of opinion that you can dispatch your trains as usual. N. WILKINSON. BWCKHANNON, W. VA., January 12, 1865. Col. N. WILKINSON, Clarksburg: About 115 men have arrived from Beverly, nearly all of whom are of the Eighth Ohio; forty-seven are armed. One man says he left Beverly at 2 oclock yesterday. Rebels were making off with the plunder as rapidly as possible. Quarters and bridge are all that was burned. Thinks they started for Staunton with prisoners, & c. Esti- mates their force at about 900. I started a cavalry scout for Beverly at about 2 oclock afternoon. II. C. HIZER, ]Jifajor. BALTIMORE, Mn., January 12, 186511.30 a. m. (Received 11.45 a. in.) Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES THOMAS, Acting Quartermaster- General: The Oriental has not yet arrived. The Illinois, Victor, and Ashland are loaded and under orders to sail. The Suwo Nada is ready to receive her troops. B. M. NEWPORT, Colonel and Quartermaster. OFFICE OF ACTG. ASST. PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, WESTERN DIVISION OF PENNSYLVANIA, Harrisburg, Pa., January 12, 1865. Brig. Gen. JAMES B. FRY, Provost-Marshal- General, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I am informed that there are a number of persons in this division who have in their possession furniture, plate, jewelry, & c. Page 113 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 113 taken from Southern houses and sent here to their families by officers and others attached to our armies. I have the honor to ask if it is the duty of district provost-marshals to seize all such articles? I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, RICHARD I. DODGE, Major Twelfth Infantry, Acting Assistant Provost-Marshal- General. [Indorsement.] JANUARY 16, 1865. Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War. The duties referred to within do not properly belong to provost- marshals, and as they have enough to do without them I do not think it best to require their performance. I therefore submit the subject, that some other branch of the Department may be called oii to attend to the matter if it is deemed worthy of attention. JAMES B. FRY, Provost-Marshal- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 13, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The War Department cannot spare Colonel Nichols until the return of General Townsend, who is expected early next week. Will that answer your purpose? H. W.. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Stafl~ CITY POINT, January 13, 1865. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Major-General MEADE: Cavalry and artillery horses may now be given full forage. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Same to Major-General Ord.) CITY POINT, January 13, 1865. (Received 9.45 p. in.) Major-General MEADE: Please relieve General Gibbon and order him to report to me as soon as possible for assignment to the Twenty-fourth Army Corps. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 13, 186510.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: General Gibbon has been ordered to report to you at once. I am truly glad you have been able to give him a corps. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. 8 n RVOL XLvI, PT I Page 114 114 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV~. FORT MONROE, VA., January 13, 18657 p. m. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: DEAR GENERAL: I am making out, but very tired at such slow work. We have given them all fifteen days rations and ten days extra of hard bread; plenty of coal and water. The men of the Ariel and Sedgwick cooked last night three days pork, had a bath iu the James this morning, and were off to sea before 12 oclock. That Colonel Washburn was tiptop. Brigadier-General Somebody has just left me with his orders. It is a moonlight night, and they should be out before 11 oclock. This makes 3,406 men, more or less. Grover has not yet arrived. Everybody here does well, commissaries and quartermasters. I hope to go up Sunday. That brigadier alluded to above is in com- mand of the troops on board the Illinois. Very trijly, M. R. MORGAN. General Butler is here yet. - JANUARY 13, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Our men came in last night from the Chickahominy, where they had met an agent who left Richmond yesterday. ile attempted to come out day before yesterday, but was obliged to return on account of the impera- tive orders which have been issued to allow no one, whiteor black, to come in or out of the city. lUhe only road that he could leave on yesterday was the Brook turnpike, running northwardly and nearly parallel with the Central railroad; ingressand egress on no other was permitted. Our agent was thus obliged to walk over thirty-five miles, and then cross the Chickahominy in a boat. It would seem that these extraordinary regulations were made for the purpose of preventing information going out of the real condition of the city, which is daily becoming worse. Gold has risen to seventy for one. Flour, according to the grade, is sold at from $600 to $800 a barrel; beef, salt, and all other articles steadily advancing. One of our correspondents, an engineer on the IDanville railroad, sends word that on that road eight trains a day have been run each day lately. He says that within the past two weeks trans- portation has been provided over the road for 16,000 men from Gen- eral Lees army. It is understood that it is intended to convey Hokes division, Kershaws division, and the brigades lately sent froni Earlys corps to Wilmington. He sends some facts as to the number of men that could be transported in a train and the number of trains that car- ried them, in order to show that his information of the number sent south is correct. He adds that there are now forty-five engines on that road, fifteen of which are not in use, that cars and other trans~ior- tation have been taken from the Petersburg railroad and engines have been withdrawn from the Central and added to the Danville. By the last freshet the Danville and Greenshorough Railroad is very badly damaged between these two points. It was a matter of rumor that fif teen days would be required to put the road in repair. The superin- tendent of another railroad leading out of Richmond, whose name an Page 115 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115 position are known to the commanding general, says that perhaps it may be repaired in ten days, but that probably fifteen will be required. The army have been put upon half rations. One of our correspon- dents says, Evacuation is upon everyones lips. Commissary stores are very ~ and our other friends in Richmond send us word that evacuation is not only a matter of talk, but a matter of earnest. Early is in the neighborhood of Staunton with one division of infantry and about 2,000 cavalry. On the account of the failure in the supply of lead, the rebels are thrown back to the resources of that kind which come over the Central road, and our friends [say~ that if the road was destroyed near Staunton the supply would be completely broken up. The information before communicated in regard to railroad supplies is renewed as follows, namely: That the railroad companies in the South have contracted for block tin, zinc, and other necessaries of like nature to be sent to them in some way through Norfolk; it is understood that the supplies are to come from a firm or firms in Philadelphia; that the negotiation is to be perfected by the exchange of cotton, which is to go down the Blackwater in small boats. This information comes from a different source from that by which it was formerly received. Great depression is said to exist everywhere in Richmond. As a specimen of it the following is given: At a meeting of the board of directors of the railroad compahy, of which one of our friends is superintendent and was present, time president of the road, being the father of General Breckinridges acting assistant adjutant-general, came in and met his son there. The first question was, What is the news ~ to which the officer replied, Damned bad. If Sherman cannot be stopped, there is an end to the business. Our friends quite naturally send us word that the Union sentiment is largely on the gain. GEO. II. SHARPE. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, January 13, 1865. Maj. Gen. II. XV. HALLECK, Chief qf AS1taff, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a copy of a telegram from Lieutenant-General Grant to you, dated the 9th instant, relative to the short supply of forage on hand at City Point. The dispatch having been referred to Col. S. L. Brown, I herewith inclose a copy of his report, which shows that a large quantity of for- age has, been and is en route for that army, and I trust that it will arrive in time to prevent any very great inconvenience or injury to the animals thereof. In regard to the competency of Colonel Brown for the responsible position he holds in this department, I respectfully remark that for the past year he has had many difficulties to contend with, and has surmounted them all. No part of the army which he has had to furnish with forage has suffered, although he has not been able to accumulate a large stock on hand, as was desirable, and that it has been better supplied than in the West and Southwest. The expedi- tion of General Sherman has had to be furnished with a large quantity of forage. This was rather an unexpected demand, and has restricted in some degree the supply for General Grants army. Brigadier- General Ingalls daily forage reports, received at this office, show tha Page 116 116 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. he has never been out of grain, and but for a few days at a time of hay. With plenty of grain, animals cannot suffer much if not supplied with hay. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHS. THOMAS, Acting Quartermaster- General and Bvt. Brig. Gen. U. S. Army. P. S.See Colonel Browns letter and statement herewith, showing that he has furnished General Shermans army with 36,944 bushels of corn, 418,268 bushels of oats, and 8,508,939 pounds of hay (4,209 tons), and that he is still supplying it with grain for 35,000 animals. [Inclosure No. 1.] QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, Januar~1 12, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES THOMAS, Acting Quartermaster- General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a tele~ gram from Lieutenant-General Grant iu relation to the scarcity of for- age with armies operating against Richmond, which was referred to me for report. I would respectfully call your attention to a statement sub- mnitted to you on the 11th instant, which shows that the following amounts of forage were afloat for City Point on the 9th instant, viz: 10,308 bushels of corn, 310,027 bushels of oats, and 3,289 tons of hay; and that there was loading at New York City on that day for City Point the following amounts, viz: 204,040 bushels of oats and 1,195 tons of hay. No pains have been spared by me to forward for the sup- ply of the armies a sufficient supply of grain and hay, and sufficient grain has at all times been afloat for a full supply; but the late storms and ice have delayed the arrival of vessels. Hay has been exceed- ingly late in moving during the present season, and I have sent agents into all the hay-producing sections of the country to purchase supplies. There is ample grain now on the way for a full supply, and arrange- ments have been made to prevent any interruption in the supply in future. I am sorry that General Grant believes that there has been any remissness on my part, but I beg leave to assure you that nothing that could be done has remained undone in order to secure a constant and uninterrupted supply for the entire armies. The dispatch from General Grant is herewith respectfully returned. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. L. BROWN, Colonel, in Charge of Division of Requisitions and Supplies. [Sub-inclosure.] Amount of forage designed for City Point, Va. Corn. Oats. Hay. Budiels. Bushels. Tons. Amount afloat to City Point, via Fort Monroe 1,001 101, 219 2. 415 Amount afloat to City Point direct 9, 307 208, 808 874 Amount loading at 1~ew York for City Point 204, 040 1, 195 10,308 514,067 4,484 To be shipped from washington, D. C., by o~der of Brig. Gen. 1). II 50, 000 Rucker. Total 10, 308 564,067 4, 484 JANUARY 9, 1865 Page 117 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 117 [Inclosore No. 2.] QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, January 13, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES THOMAS, Acting Quartermaster- General U. & Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to submit for your information the inclosed statement of forage shipped to General Shermans army. On the 6th instant Captain Chapman, assistant quartermaster at New York, was directed to turn over to Byt. Brig. Gen. S. Van Vijet, quar- terinaster, for the supply of General Sherni ans army thirty days~ rations of grain for 35,000 animals, and upon completion of the above to continue to ship to Port Royal the same amount of grain and fifty tons of hay daily. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. L. BROWN, Colonel, in Charge of Fifth Division. [Sub-inelosure.] State eat of amounts of forage shipped for the supply of General Shermans Army. Shipped to On whose order. Date. Corn. Oats. Hay. Bushel8. Bushels. Pounds Port Royal, 5. C Quartermaster-General Nov. 1, 1864 7,498.05 25, 734. 12 1.049, 319 Pensacola, Fla do do 10, 347. 21 35, 125. 02 911, 763 Port Royal, S. C do Nov. 28, 1864, 19, 099. 07 357, 408. 21 6, 547, 857 to Jan. 10, 1865. Total 36, 944. 33 418, 268. 35 8, 508, 939 I certify that the above statement is correct as per official reports. S. L. BROWN, Colonel, in Charge of Division of Requisitions and i~ujpplies. ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 13, 1865. Bvt. Lient. Col. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ar my of the Potomac: COLONEL: I respectfully recommend that the batteries applied for by General Wright, in his letter of the 3d of January, be returned to this army. We have now forty-two batteries, including horse artillery (228 guns). Many of these batteries have been carried up from four to six guns to furnish artillery for the forts on our lines, and some of them are too weak in men to take that number of guns into the field. It is preferable, whatever number of guns is decided upon as the proportion to the troops, to organize as four-gun batteries all such as have not the maximum of men allowed to a battery, and to send the attached~~ infantrymen back to their commands. For a given num- ber of guns, tile greater the number of batteries the more efficiently will they be manned and the less will they draw upon the other arms. The batteries are lying in Washington, where I understand there is an excess of artillery unemployed. Respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General Page 118 118 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. IYVIIL SPECIAL ORDERS W~u~ DEPT ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 20. * * Washington, January 13, 1865. * * * * * 64. The telegraphic order of January 12, 1865, from this office, extend- ing the leave of absence of Brig. Gen. Edward S. Bragg, U. S. Volun- teers, for five days is hereby confirmed. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMI~C, No. 13. January 13, 1865. * * * * * * 10. Pursuant to instructions received from headquarters Armies of the United States, Maj. Gen. John Gibbon, volunteer service, is relieved from further duty with this army, and will report in person to the lieutenant-general commanding for assignment. By command of Major-General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 13, 186510 a. m. General S. WILLiAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. A. A. HUNPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 13, 1865. COMMANDING- OFFICER SECOND CORPS: General Meade will be at your headquarters in the course of an hour. He would like to see you in reference to some portions of your line. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of ktaff. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 13. January 13, 1865. I. In accordance with authority from the commanding general Army -of the Potomac, B vt. Brig. Gen. John Ramsey, colonel Eighth New Jersey Volunteers, is hereby assigned to the command of the Fourth Brigade, First Division of the comps. * * * * * * * By order of Major-General Humphrcys: SEPT. CAIINCROSS. Assistant Adjutant- General Page 119 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 119 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 13, 1865. Lient. Col. WILLIAM GLENNY, Commanding Fourth 17?rigade: COLONEL: The brevet brigadier-general coinmading t!ie division directs me to say that the work on the curtain on the right of Fort Sampson, as well as that on the dams, goes on very slowly; in fact, hardly anything is accomplished. The regiments at work on the breast- works, it is expected, will be excused from other duty, and kept at work, commencing in the morning and continuing until 5p. m. Details are ordered to report at the dams daily, sufficiently strong to do the work in a short time, but they are not kept at work, and but little is accomplished. You will please have competent officers placed in charge, and also give your personal attention to the work, in order that it may be properly finished at the earliest possible moment. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, H. A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 13, 186510 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN GIBBON: An order will be sent to you immediately to report to the lieutenant- general commanding for assignment to the Twenty-fourth Army Corps. Please make your arrangements to report as soon as possible, and receive my hearty congratulation. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. [SECOND DIVISION,] SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 13, 186511.35 p. m. Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Your dispatch is received, and I am much obliged to you. JOHN GIBBON, Maj. Gen. of T7ois., Comdg. 2d Div., i3econd Army Corps. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 13, 1865. The general commanding the division directs that brigade com- manders will have their respective commands paraded in the vicinity of their camps at 10 a. m. to-morrow, as the major-general commanding the division wishes to see them before leaving it to take command of the Twenty-fourth Corps. By command of Major-General Gibbon: JNO. M. NOIIVELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General Page 120 120 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIH. hEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 137 1865. (Received 10 a. in.) Major BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing to report for last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 13, 1865. (Received 11.10 a. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: I have nothing new to report along our line. The intrenchinents are being repaired. The officer in command of the detachment First Con- necticut Heavy Artillery reports a new magazine required in Battery 10. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. FORT MONROE, VA., January 13, 1865. To THE PRESIDENT: I respectfully ask permission to visit Washington upon personal business, to adjust some accounts, to get some vouchers and evidence in a suit commenced against me, which I cannot obtain without per- sonal attention. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, January 13, 18653.35 p. m. Major-General BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.: Yours, asking leave to come to Washington, is received. You have been summoned by the Committee on the Conduct of the War to attend here, which, of course, you will do. A. LINCOLN. PRIVATE.~ FORT MONROE, January 13,1865. Mv DEAR RAWLINS: You know that I like to see a thing well done, if done at all, and I must say my enemies about your headquarters are very bungling in their malice and will bring the general into remark. Take the article in the Herald by Cadwallader, and it will appear to have been dictated at headquarters, where I know the general had nothing to do with it. It was not telegraphed, and to have reached Tuesdays Herald must have left in the mail-boat at 10 a. in., when the order for my removal was not served on me till 12 m. of the same day, Sunday. Unless the orders of the general are disclosed before they are made public, how could the news of General Butlers removal excite much comment; but as far as I can learn but little or no animadversion. It could not have been known beyond General Grants personal staff, an Page 121 CHAP. Lviii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 121 whatever may have been the feelings of some of those gentlemeu toward myself, I should not expect much, if any, animadversion with theni. Again, Cadwallader could never have written this sentence: It has been General Butlers misfortune to appoint too many of (these) selfish and irresponsible persons to official positions of trust and responsibility. Their.indis- cretions have cost him dearly, & c. Now, as I appointed Cadwallader himself as a lieutenant in the U. S. Volunteers, as I supposed and believed at the wish of General Grant, for the selfish reason on Cadwalladers part that he wished to escape the draft which would take him away from general headquarters as a reporter, and as he is wholly irresponsible, and as not only I but Gen- eral Grant is suffering from his indiscretion, although he had this piece of news in advance of anybody else, I do not believe he would wish to communicate it to the Herald. Now, wasnt the fellow who got up this dispatch a bunglerl Again, to put the removal on the ground that I was the last of the civilian generals brings an issue between the regulars and volunteers, and I assure you that the person who penned that does not love the general, or else is as stupid as a quartermaster who would let the horses of a whole army starve for want of forage when there is plenty in the country, if he had a little energy to get it, becai~se the Regular Army do not like the general. They did not before the war, and his great success since has not increased their love, and his day of trial is coming, and therefore they seek to throw off those of the volunteers who would be his friends, and it is of no consequence to him whether the injury proceeds from their enmity or incapacity. Now, my dear Rawlins, look after those stupid fellows a little, or they will do mischief to their chief. They have already cir- culated a story that General Grant has always been opposed to me, and that 1 have been thrust upon him for political reasons, so, if possible, to get a personal issue between me and the general. It will be his fault if that issue comes, not mine; it will be my misfortune, and the work of his subordinates. The navy waits at Beanfort again, and the army waits for them. Yours, truly, BE~J. F. BUTLER, Major-General no longer. WASHINGTON, January 13, 18652 p. m. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. ORD, Bermuda Hundred: Brigadier-General Turner has been summoned here by the Commit- tee on the Conduct of the War. You will allow him to come, if in your judgment he can be spared without injury or inconvenience to the pub- lic service. C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 13, 18653.30 p. m. (Received 5.10 p. in.) Hon. C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of War: General Turner will start for Washington on the 16th. He cannot be spared before that time. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General Page 122 122 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LYJIL IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 13, 186510.30 a. m. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: I shall be glad if YOU can send Gibbon to the Twenty-fourth at once. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. Volunteer8. BEFORE WILMINGTON, N. C., January 13, 1865. (Via Fort Monroe 7 p. m. 15th.) Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of staff, City Point: GENERAL: We arrived here last night and disembarked to-day, getting the infantry on shore at 3 p. m. Our ammunition is landed, and most of the stores. We hold a line across the point from the Flag- Pond Battery, but it is not a good one, and probably will have to be changed during the night. As soon as the line is determined upon I shall fortify it. To-morrow I intend to move down troops under cover of the navy fire and determine whether an assault is advisable. Pris. oners and deserters report that ilokes division is here, or that three brigades are here. A portion of the ammunition in the mens boxes was spoiled in getting through the surf. Please send me 300,000 rounds of caliber .58. I think that fifty wagons and teams should also be sent down; they will be useful in any event. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED II. TERRY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding Expedition. HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, Before Wilmington, IV. C., January 13, 1865. Brig. Gen. JOHN A. RAWLINS, Chief of & aff, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: After consultation with Colonel Comstock, and in view of what I think is the ascertained fact, that the whole, or nearly the whole, of Hokes force is still here, I think that it would be advisable to send the balance of the troops which Lieutenant-General Grant spoke of send- ing forward. It seems indispensable to hold stronglythe line toward Wil- mington, and for this purpose at leastfour of my brigades are necessary, leaving only two brigades for operations against the fort. In case an assault should be tried and be unsuccessful, the losses which would be incurred would leave an entirelyinsufficient force for further operations. I suggest that these troops should be sent in vessels capable of standing a storm at their anchors here, and should be provisioned, coaled, and watered for at least fifteen days, so that in case the weather should prevent the landing of supplies for more troops than we now have, they could remain on the vessels. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED II. TERRY, Brevet Major. General, Commanding Expedition. P. S.Please~ send me twenty paulins to cover stores and ammuni- tion. A. II. TERRY, Brevet Major-General Page 123 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 123 HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, Near Wilmington, January 13, 1865. (Received 2.15 a. in.) Brig. Gen. H. L. ABBOT: GENERAL: I am very anxious to get at least two 30-pounders on shore at the earliest possible moment; they are necessary to protect our left from the enemys steamers in the river. Can you not shift your ammunition to-night so as to get at the guns. Ii suppose you have boats of your own sufficient for this, but I have asked the admi- ral to help you. I wish you would also get your wagons and mules on shore early iu the morning if the weather will permit. The proper place for landing is far below where the troops landed. It is at least half a mile below where battery. , you will see a cluster of tents near the old Very respectfully, & c., ALFRED H. TERRY, Breret Major- General. WINCHESTER, VA., January 13, 1365. (Received 3.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, - Chief of staff: The following is the last information that I have been able to obtain from General Crook in reference to the Beverly affair: CUMBERLAND, MD., January 13, 186512 m. Major-General SHERIDAN: The following just received from Colonel Wilkinson at Clarksburg: Do not expect to hear from Beverly before noon or evening. Stragglers are coming into Buckhannon and Philippi, and all report it as a complete surprise. The Eighth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, or a portion of it, rallied and fought hard. The rebels burned the bridge at Beverly. Will send a written report as soon as something tangible can be got at; just now all is confused. CROOK, Major- General. The attack, according to telegram of yesterday, was made by about 700 rebels. There were two regiments at Beverly, viz, Thirty-fourth Ohio infantry and Eighth Ohio Cavalry, both strong regiments. I advised General Crook some time ago to break up the post at Beverly; it is of no use, and is a bait for the enemy, both from position and gross carelessness, and want of discipline OIL the part of the troops. I will start to-morrow on an inspecting tour through West Virginia; I want to see for myself. 1 can get no reports from the department. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., January 13, 1865. (Received 9.50 a. in.) Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The cavalry that I sent out returned at 5 this morning with Mrs. Goverbor Foote, who is now here. She says her husband forwarded his resignation to the rebel congress, and stated that his design was to go to Washington and make to this Government certain representations which he hoped and believed would go far toward end Page 124 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. 124 ing the war. This resignation was to take effect on the 31st of Decem- ber, and it was designed that it should not reach Congress until he had arrived in Washington. He reached Occoquan without a J)assMrs. Foote, however, had oneand was detained there about thirty-six hours by high water. In the meantime his absence had become kiiown at Richmond, and an order was issued directing his arrest. Patrols were sent to all the fords accordingly. Mr. Foote had valuable papers which he designed to present to the Government; also a letter to Secre- tary Seward; all these papers were upon Mrs. Footes person, and when the guard commenced searching his person she destroyed them. They left her with the pledge that she would not leave Occoquan until to-morrow (Saturday). She now fears that her being here will be used to the injury of her husband, but I have notified her that to avoid any such consequence she can be regarded as a prisoner and as not coining here voluntarily. I have provided c9mfortable quarters for her at a hotel. Respectfully, ~. II. WELLS, Col. and Proros& Marshal- General, D~fenses South of the Potomac. - HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 13, 1865. Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Asst. A djt. Gen., Dept. of Washington: I have the honor to report all quiet along the line of my command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. GAMBLE, Colonel Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvIsION, January 13, 1865. Brevet Major-General EMORY Commanding Nineteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you send the trans- portation of the Second Division of your corps, ammunition train, ambulance train, and two batteries of artillery, all intact and under a good and faithful officer, to Frederick, Md., there to be held until other- wise ordered. The quartermaster and commissary of subsistence at Frederick will furnish the necessary shelter and subsistence for the men and animals. One regiment of cavalry will be detailed to escort them to Harpers Ferry; from there to Frederick they will not require one. Yours, respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH Chief of i3taff. WINCHESTER, January 13, 1865. General EMORY, Commanding Nineteenth Army Corps: The general commanding directs that you send on~ battery of artil- lery to report for duty to General Fessenden, commanding, Winchester. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff Page 125 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 125 HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, January 13, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I send battery to Winchester to-morrow at 7 p. m. The train, & c., will be ready to start in the other direction at 9 a. m. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, January 13, 1865. Maj. WILLIAM RUSSELL, Jr., Assistant Adjutant- General, Cavalry Corps: MAJOR: In obedience to instrnctions, I sent out yesterday morning a reconnaissance, consisting of 200 men from the Cavalry Reserve Bri- gade, under Maj. Arch. McKendry, Second Massachusetts Cavalry, as far as Strasbnrg. We found nothing there, and the inhabitants reported that no force of the enemy, save a few rebel scouts, had been there for some weeks. There was nothing at Fishers Hill. It was reported that the rebel cavalry, except a few squadrons, were dis- mounted, the horses being sent to the rear for forage. The roads were in fair condition. No pickets were seen, and the party returned safely last night. The report of the party that went to Front Royal is here- with inclosed. They saw nothing, and were nuable to cross the river. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. GIBBS, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding Division. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, No. 7. Cdrnp Averell, Va., January 13, 1865. THE OFFICERS AND SOLDIERS OF THE SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION: COMRADES: The time of our separation is at hand. No one regrets the existence of the cause that necessitates the act more than L. On leaving the division allow me to assure you that I shall ever cherish your memory with fond recollections. Our associations have been of the most pleasant character. In the administration of the affairs of the division I have at all times endeavored to keep in view but one object i. e., the good of the service, regardless of personal popularity; the faithful have beenrewarded, and the indolent and inefflcien~ have been punished, as far as in my power. To the Second Brigade of the division, now commanded by Col. H. Capehart, formerly commanded by me from the 10th day of June, 1864, to the 24th day of September, 1864, at which time I assumed command of the division, I owe much of my success as an officer, for which it has my thanks. To the division as a whole I can say with great pleasure that through the unparalleled, active, and successful campaign in the Shenandoah Valley success has crowned all our efforts~ may I not hope that such may characterize all your efforts in the future. Hoping that the reputation which as a division you have gained may be preserved untarnished, and that in all changes through which you may be called to pass harmony may prevail in the organization, I bid you farewell. W. H. POWELL, Brigadier- General Page 126 126 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, NINETEENTH CoRPs Baltimore, January 13, 18G5. Brigadier-Gelleral FORSYTH, Chief of $taff, Middle Military Division: SIR: All off to-night, except the Eleventh Indiana Volunteers, which is detained here by instructions from General Grant. C. GROVER, Brevet Major. General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 14, 18656 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: You have perhaps seen in the papers that ex-Senator Foote, with his family, attempted to escape from Richmond to Washington, and that he was pursued and takeii back. His wife and child are now here. Please give inc the earliest information you may receive concerning himwhat is likely to be done with him, & c. A. LINCOLN. CITY POINT, January 14, 1865. (Received 10.45 p. in.) Major-General MEADE: The latest intelligence from Wilmington is derived from Richmond papers of to-day; they say: About fifty vessels are in sight, mostly opposite the former landing of the enemy. The weather is fair and the sea smooth. There was a report last night that the enemys fleet had begun the bombardment of Fort Fisher. The War Department has no official information on the subject. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 22. Washington, January 14, 1865. * * * * * * * 59. Permission to visit Washington City, D. C., for twenty-four hours is hereby granted Maj. Gen. A. MeD. MeCook, U. S. Volunteers. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 11. 5 City Point, Va., January 14, 1865. * * * * * * * III. Maj. Gen. John Gibbon is hereby relieved from duty in the Army of the Potomac, and will report in person to Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. Ord, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina. for orders. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant~ T. S. BOWERS, Assistant A~jutant- General Page 127 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CRAP. LVIII.] 127 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 14. January 14, 1865. * * * * * * * 6. The commanding officers of the Third Vermont and Fourteenth Massachusetts Batteries will at once rej)ort with their respective com- mands to the commanding officer Sixth Army Corps for temporary duty. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 14, 186510.20 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Six deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 14, 1865. SOLDIERS OF THE SECOND DIVISION: The order which separates u~ has arrived. For nearly two years you have served under my command, and during this period we have passed through mauy bloody battles together. I have ever found you faithful, patriotic, and brave. The bones of your dead and the maimed forms of your wounded comrades testify to your gallantry on many hard-fought fields. Your reputation as a division will always be dear to me. Continue to exercise and cherish those sound doctrines of mili- tary discipline which it has been my highest ambition to instill, and you will be sure to add glory to your colors in the struggle through which our dear country is now passing. JOHN GIBBON, Mc~jor- General of Volunteers. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SECOND DIV., 2D ARMY CORPS, No. 8. January 14, 1865. Major-General Gibbon having been relieved from command of this - division, the undersigned hereby assumes command of it. THOMAS A. SMYTH, Brigadier- General i~f Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 14, 1865. (Received 10.25 a. in.) Major BARSTOW Assistant Adjutant- General: Nothing to report. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General Page 128 128 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYILL HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 14, 1865. (Received 10.50 a. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Nothing new along our front. Picket-firing was kept up during the night. Repairs of line going on. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 14, 186510.20 a. m. Brigadier-General DEVENS, Commanding Twenty-fourth Army Corps: General Turner did not arrive and I do not expect him. Will you assume command ~ ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. JANUARY 14, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Richmond Examiner of the 14th contains the following: The Yankee gun-boats, upward of fifty in number, are again visible off Wilming- ton, and were yesterday said to be engaged in a vigorous shelling of the woods near Fort Fisher. There is a rumor that an attack has been commenced against the fort itself, but the War Department had last night received no intelligence of it. C. DEVENS, Brigadier-General, Commanding. FLAG-SHIP MALVERN, Off Fort Pisher, January 14, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States: DEAR GENERAL: The forces under General Terry were landed yes- terday without accident or opposition, and their supplies followed imme- diately. To-day I hope to finish landing the guns, which will be all left to do. General Terry is throwing up a breast-work across the neck of land from Battery Anderson to the river. (Battery Anderson is called by us Flag-Pond Battery.) I find General Terry most agreeable and efficient, but I think from the way he is going to work that he would like to have more men. This, how ever, is a mere matter of opin- ion of mine, which you may take for what it is worth. General Terry has said nothing about wanting more men, and, I judge, is one of those who would not ask for re-enforcements unless it should be absolutely necessary. Yesterday afternoon, after landing the troops, I went with a portion of the fleet to attack the fort. Our fire completely silence Page 129 Cn~r. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 129 them as usual. The iron-dads fired nearly all day yesterday, aiid the fort bears maiiy scars, but I cannot tell how much harm was done. We suffered no loss whatever. Most truly, yours, 1)AVID 1). PORTER, Rear-Admiral. I think small-arm ammunition is wanted, as some was wet in lauding; provisions also. We cannot average more than two days a week in which anything can be landed safely. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. EXPEDITiONARY FORCES, No. 4. ~ Before Wilmington, N. C., January 14, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Abbot is announced as chief of artillery and Lient. Col. C. B. Comstock, aide-dc-camp, as chief engineer of this expedition, and they will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. II. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. EXPEDITIONARY FORCES. No. 4. Be ore Wilmington, N. C., January 14, 1865. Brigadier-Generals Ames and Paine, commanding divisions, will at once organize a pioneer company of 100 privates and non-commissioned officers for each division. Such officers will be selected as are specially fitted for the engineer duty which they will have to perform, and the men should be mechanics. These pioneer companies will have the superintendence of engineer work done by the divisions to which they belong. The officers commanding these companies will have charge of all tools and engineer material iu their divisions, whether in use or not, giving receipts for all property received by them, and keeping it in depot, under their own control, at all times when not in use by working parties. Such parties will call on them for tools, and return them when the tour of duty is over. The chief engineer will give such instructions to these officers as he deems necessary. By order of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. II. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. FLAG BATTERY SIGNAL STATION, January 14, 1865. General ABBOT: We have got a rebel boat in the Cape Fear River. Itis of the utmost importance that we have some guns there to give her a place of refage from the Chickainauga. What is the prosI)ect of getting some of yours on shore~ TERRY, General. 9 U RYOL XLVI, PT 1 Page 130 130 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. ~CHAP. LYIIL U. S. STEAMER RHODE iSLAND, January 11, 1865. Brig. Gen. HENRY L. ABBOT, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding Siege Guns, Artillery, and Engineers: DEAR GENERAL: It will afford us much pleasure in complying with your request in regard to getting the siege guns on shore, unless we should receive orders from the admiral to take up another station that may prevent it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, STEPHEN D. TRENCHAItI), Commanding U. S. Steamer Rhode Island. MOREHEAD CITY, January 14, 1865. Brigadier-General PALMER, Commanding District of North Carolina: GENERAL: I have just arrived from Fort Fisher. Left the fleet 3 oclock this morning. We lauded the troops all safely and got a good position. We look forward with much hope. 1 am sorry to learn Gen- eral Butler is relieved. Any news from the Valley l Truly, yours, GEO. S. I)ODGE. HEADQUARTERS DiSTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Yew Berne, N. C., January 14, 1865. Colonel MCCHESNEY, illiorehead City: The steamer Allison will go to Washington on Monday afternoon. Mr. Wiswell and any such people, General Palmer says, may go. He wishes you to go in command. Orders have been issued to-day for the Twenty-third New York Cavalry to ebine at once to New Berne, bring all their traps, and report to Colonel Savage, Twelfth New York Cav- alry, who, it is believed, will make them effective. Dont wait to receive the order, as it will not get down until Monday, but start them off as soon as practicable. By order of General Palmer: J. A. JUDSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS ~ HDQRS. MIDDLE MILiTARY DIVISION, No.9. January 14, 1865. General Orders, No. 8, Jan nary 12, 1865, from these headquarters, is hereby revoked. The prisoner, John E. Boyd, Confederate soldier, to whom it alludes, will at once be sent to Fort Mdllenry, Md., there to be confined in charge of the guard until the end of the war. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 131 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 131 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cumberland, Md., January 14, 18G5Q30 p. m. Comdy. iFirst Infantry I)ivision, Dept. of West Virginia: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you have one regiment at the railroad depot in Cumberland to-morrow morning at 9 oclock, ready to load on board of a train for Clarksburg , Va. The regiment will probably be gone three days, and the men should take only such things as are necessary for their immediate comfort. Let it be a good, strong regiment. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CLARKSBURG W VA ., January 11 15G5 Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland, iIfd.: Scout sent to Beverly returned to Buckliannon last night and report 12 men wounded and 4 killed of the Eighth Ohio Cavalry; 3 wounded and 1 killed of the Thirty-fourth Ohio. Of the rebels 6 were wounded, one of whom is Colonel Cook or Crook, who lost his left leg. Citizens estimate that 450 of our men were taken prisoners. Lieutenant-Col- onels Youart and Furney escaped from the rebels after being taken some (listance. The rebels moved toward Lewisburg. Nearly 200 stragglers have reported at Philippi and Buckhannon. Expect to have telegraph open to-morrow. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding. CUMBERLAND, January 14, 18G59.30 p. m. Colonel WILKINSON, Clarksburg, W. Va.: Keep a good lookout, and report at once anything reliable you hear. A regiment will go to you at Clarksbnrg to-morrow morning. IIOBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CLARKSBURG, January 14, 186~1O.2O p. m. Maj. Ii. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant- General, Cumberland: Have had no communication with Weston since 7 oclock. Indica- tions are that Weston is in possession of the enemy, who will probably be here before morning. Start the regiment to-night, if possible. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CHARLESTON, W. VA., January 14, 18Gb. MaJ. T~OBERT P. KENNEDY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of W. Ya., Cumberland, Md.: Petition mailed yesterday. Heard a week ago that the Lewisburg force, four companies, was going to make a move. They tried to cros Page 132 132 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CnAP. LYJIT. at hughes Ferry, Ganley River, three days ago, but couid not, and went back. Scouts returned yesterday twenty miles from Lewisburg; report nothing new. Think the above move is the one reported. Rivers and streams very high. ~ ILL OLEY, Colonel, Commanding First Separate Brigade. HEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cumberland, Md., January 14, 1865. CoL JOHN H. OLEY, Commanding First Separate Brigade, Charleston, IV. Va.: CLARKSBURG, W. VA., Jan itary 14, 1865. The following has just been received from Weston: James MeCorly, senator,just arrived from Braxton County, and reports that 1,800 rebels lelt Lewisbnrg a few days since. The citizens of Braxton County suppose their march to be ia this direction. Lines down between Weston and l3ulltown. Will send out scouts immediately. A. N. THOMSON, Captain, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, Commanding Post. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding. The major-general commanding directs that you send out scouts at once to ascertain the facts, promptly reporting any information obtained. It is not known how much importance to be attached to the above. WM. MCKINLEY, JR., Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. (Copy sent to General Forsyth, chief of stafL)- CHARLESTON, W. VA., January 14, 1865. Captain WHITLEY, Loup Creek, W. Va.: It is reported via Clarksburg that a large body of rebels left Lewis- burg a few days since and moved into Braxton Connty. What news have you ~ Has any one come in from Lewisburg lately ~ Send out scouts and communicate with Captain Ramnsay at once, also on Lewis- burg road. Answer to-night. JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding. Lou~ CREEK, January 14, 1865. Col. J. H. OLEY, Commanding, & e., Charleston: There has no one come in from Lewisbnrg lately. My scouts returned from that direction a short time since. The iiiftwmation they had was that four companies were then in Lewisbnrg. Since then I learned that 300 rebels were at hughes Ferry, but could not cross. This Page 133 ~JdA~. Lviii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133 have telegraphed to you before. I have news from Hughes Ferry to- day. There are no rebels in that vicinity now. Everything is quiet in the upper part of Nicholas Conuty. I have sent out scouts as you directed. I think there cannot be a very large force in Braxton County, or I ahould have been apt to have heard from them. Captaimi Gorten, State Scouts, returned from a scout yesterday. He passed through Greenbrier County and within twenty miles of Lewisburg. He heard of no rebels being there. He captured fifteen horses fi:om Thiurmonds men, which he brought in with him. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, J~c. CITY POINT, VA., January 15, 1865. President A. LINCOLN, Washington: I send you to-day by telegraph message of Jefferson Davis and other dispatches from Richmond Whig concerning the arrest of ex-Sen- ator Foote, which is all the information I have on the subject.* Any further information I may obtain will be sent you. What is likely to be done with him is difficult to conjecture. I suppose they will at furthest do nothing more than imprison him. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 15, 1865. His Excellency A. LINCOLN, President: The following is clipped from the Richmond Whig of Saturday TIlE ARREST OF lION. 11. S. FOOTE. The following commnnication was read in the Honse of Representatives yester- day, at 1 oclock, from the President, through his private secretary, Col. B. N. Har- rison: EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Januavy 13, 1865. To the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, C. S. A.: I have j iist received the accompanying report from the Secretary of War stating that Henry S. Foote, a member of the House of Representatives from the State of Tennessee, has been arrested by a military officer in Northern Virginia while endeav- oring to pass onr lines on his way to the enemys country. As this arrest may involve a question of privilege, I submit the matter to you, in order that such disposal of the case may be made as to you shall seem proper. JEFFERSON DAVIS. WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Rickrnond, January 13, 1865. To the PRESiDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES: SIn: I have the honor to submit for your iiiforniation and direction the sub- joined copy of a telegram received from the provost-marshalat Fredericksburg. No special instructions had been given for such arrest. Very respectfully, & c., JAS. A. SEDDON, ________________________________________________ Secretary of War. See next, p081 Page 134 134 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYTlI. FREDERiCKSBURG, January 12, 1885. Hon. SLCRETARY OF WAR: 1 have arrested Hon. Henry S. Foote at Occoquan, on his way to Washington for the ~U~~OSC of negotiating peace, as he avows. Full particulars through Major Carrington by mail. Have paroled him to await instructions. Please instruct me what disposition to make of him. H. S. DOGGETT, Commanding Post. On motion of Mr. Clark, of Missouri, the matter was reP~rred to a select commit- tee of five. Occoquan is in Prince \Villiam County, on the stream of that name near the Potomac. The village is about seventy-live miles from Richmond and twenty from Alexandria. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 15, 18659 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: If you will be at home to-day I will go down to City Point. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY PoINT, January 15, 1865. (Received 10.35 a. in.) Major.General MEADE: General Grant will not be at his headquarters until late this even- ing. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Colonel BATCHELDER: In consequence of the above, I shall not require a train to-day. GEG. G. MEADE. JANUARY 15, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: The following deserters from the enemy came into the lines of this army last evening. * * * * * * * From these we learn that the enemy on the south side of the Appo- mattox is posted by divisions as follows: Mahones, Gordons, and Pegrams divisions in reserve, at the following points: Mahones divis- ion one mile and a half west of Battery iNo. 45, on the point where the enemys line of works crosses the Boydton plank road; Gordons divis- ion one mile west of Burgess Mills and north of and near Hatchers Run; Pegrams division one mile west of Burgess Mills and south of and iiear Hatchers Run. Small details are made from the above divis- ions, which picket as follows: From Gordons and Pegrams divisions, about 800 men picket from Burgess Mills down Hatchers Run on th Page 135 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 135 south side to a point between Dabneys and Armstrongs Mills, where they join the cavalry pickets; from Mahoiies division, about 200 men 1)icket in front of Lanes and Scales brigades, of Wilcoxs division. The following divisions are in or very near the lines of breast-works, posted from right (enemys) to left: Heths, from Bnrgess Mills to the Clay- pool road; Wilcoxs, from the Claypool road to the Fisher house, or a point abont a mile (Inc east of the lead-works; hnsons division, from near the Wilcox house to the Appomnattox, the Petersburg City Bat- talions intervening between Wilcoxs and Johnsons divisions. The enemys brigades are posted, right to left, as follows: Heth, Cooke, DaviM, McComb, MacRae, Wilcox, McGowan, Lane, Scales, Johnson, Wallace Wise, Gracie, Ransom. The three divisions in reserve have eleven brigades. * * * * * * * JINO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 15, 186510.40 a. rn. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Eleven deserters from the enemy came into our lines dur- ing yesterday and last night. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HE~DQUARTERS ARMY OF TILE POTOMAC, January 15, 18652.10 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: Please let me know the direction from your headquarters of the firing on your left. We hear firing which seems to be south by west from here. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 15, 18652.20 p. m. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of St~fr Army of the Potomac: I have heard no firing. Am just in from Fort Fisher and Fort Welch. Upon inquiry I find no one at headquarters has heard firing. Have sent inquiry to division commanders and general officer ~f the day. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, 6ommanding Page 136 136 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, January 15, 18654.50 p. m. Byt. Maj. Gei. A. S. WEBB, Chief of. Staff, Army of the Potomac: The commanding officer of the First I)ivision reports that there was some firing this morning far away to his right, but nothing unusual. Other division commanders report that no firing whatever has been heard during the day. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major. General, Commanding. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 15, 1865. l3vt. Maj. JOHN N. CRAIG, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Artillery head quarters, Army of the Potomac: MAJOR: J have the honor to report that the batteries of this com- mand occupy the following positions on this date. viz: Position. Fort Fisher Fort welch Fort Gregg Fort Sampson -- - In reserve Fort Cummings.. Fort Siebert Fort Emery In reserve Fort Clarke in reserve Train guards Ninth Corps line. Battery. Guns. C and 1, 5th U. S. Artillery.... Four light 12-pounders.. 11th Ne~v YorkBattery Six 3-inch M, 1st New Hauipshire Artil- Four 3-inch lery. B, 1st New Jersey Artillery Four light 12-pounders.. do Two light 12-pounders.. K, 4th U. S. Artillery Four light 12.pounders. - 10th Massachusetts Battery - - Two 3-inch do do do do 12th New York Battery Four light 12-pounders.. B, 1st Rhode Island Artillery. Six light 12-pounders ... L, 4111 New York Artillery do G, 1st New York Artillery do F, 1st Pennsylvania Artillery.1 Six 3-inch 3d New Jersey Battery Six light 12-pounders ... 6th Maine Battery do C, 4th New York Artillery.... Six Coehorn mortars. Commanding officer. First Lient. E. P. Clark. First Lieut.J. T. Wyatt. Capt. G. K. Dakin. Capt. A. J. Clark. Do. First Lieut. E. S. Smith. Brevet Major Sleeper. Do. Do. Lient. William 5. Bull. Brevet Major Brown. Lieut. R. Kennedy. Capt. S. A. McClellan. First Lieut. J. F. Camp- hell. Brevet Major Woeruer. Capt. W. H. Rogers. First Lieut. D. D. Mc. Pherson. Capt. S. A. McClellan absent on leave, Special Orders, No. 13, head- quarters Army of the Potomac, January 13, 1865. Anthony 0-. 0-raves mustered iu as second lieutenant Eleventh New York Battery. JNO. 0-. HAZARD,~ Brevet Lieutenant. Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 15, 1865. (Received 2.55 p. in.) Major-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: Some firing on your right has been heard at these headquarters. Can you report its direction from your headquarters ~ Have any of your batteries been firing ~ ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 137 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 137 HEADQUARTERS FliTH ARMY CORPS, January 15, 1865. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: In the absence of General Crawford, I have the honor to report that no firing in the direction stated in your dispatch has been heard a~ these headquarters. Inquiry will at once be made of the chief of artil- lery as to whether the batteries have been firing. FREI). T. LOCKE, J~revet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 15, 18654.30 p. rn. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: The chief of artillery reports that none of the batteries of his corps have been firing to-day. FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January Li, 1865. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Maj. S. F. BARSTOW: Nothing to report. H. U. WRIGHT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 15, 1865. (Received 10.40 a. in.) Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB: 1 have nothing new t~o report. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 15, 1865. (Received 12.10 p. in.) General A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Two deserters have just reportedForty-sixth Virginia and Twenty- sixth South Carolina. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 15, 1865. (Via Fort Monroe 16th.) Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Port Monroe, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to forward you by telegraph the soundings at low tide oii the centre line of the T)utcli Gal) Canal, taken at 1 p. m. this day. Commencing at 15 feet depth in the river at lower end o Page 138 138 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. canal, and soanding at intervals of 18 feet to 15 feet depth of water in the river at tipper eH(1 of canal, I find 15, 12, 11, 13, 10, 104, 94, 9, 10, 94, 9, 9, 9~, 9, 74, 6, 6, 5, 5, 4, 3, 34, 34, 3,3,2,2,24, 3, 34, 4, 44, 5, 7, 10, 15. Add 34 feet to all these soundings for depth at daily high tide, aiid 8 feet for depth at highest water during recent freshet in James River. One hundred and fifty feet of the shallowest part is, at low tide 53 feet wide on surface of water in narrowest place. Very respectfully, your obedient servai it, L. L. BUCKLANI), First Licut., First Enyrs. New York slate Vols., Acty. Asst. Engr. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQR S. 1)~PT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No: 7. ) In the Field, Va., January 15, 1865. Lieut. Col. John Coughlin, Tenth New Hampshiie Volunteers, is ~iereby announced as provost-marshal-general of this department. By command of Major-General Ord: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 9. In the Field, Janua y 15, 1865. Maj. Gen. John Gibbon, U. S. Volunteers, having reported to the department commander in obedience to Special Orders, No. 11, from headquarters Armies of the United States, dated January 14, 1865, is hereby assigned to the command of the Twenty-fourth Army Corps, subject to the approval of the lieutenant-general co nimanding and of the President. By command of Major-General Omd: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 9. 5 In the Field, Va., January 15, 1865. Iii conformity with General Orders, No. 9, from the headquarters Army of the James, the undersigned hereby assumes command of the Twenty-fourth Army Corps. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General, Volunteers. GENERAL ORDERS.) HDQR S. FIRST BRIG., THIRD Div., TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 2. ) January 15, 1865. Lient. Col. J. B. Raulston having been mustered out by reason of the expiration of his term of service, the undersigned hereby assumes command of this brigade, by virtue of seniority of rank. The l)resent staff will be retained, and all existing orders will remain in force. WM. KItEUTZER, Liemttenant- Colonel Ninety. cigli th New York Volunteers Page 139 CHAP. UVIII.] OOR1~E~PONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 139 OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL, Yorktown, l~a January 15, 1865. Major CASSELS, Provost-Marshal, 1)ept. of Virginia and North Carolina; SIR: II have the honor to report that information of a reliable char- acter has beeii received by the iiaval authorities, and also at this office, that there is a fbrce of the enemy organizing in Matthews County, Va., and on the Severn River for the purpose of destroying the light ships and houses on the Chesapeake Bay, also the vessels in the York River, and to capture the force of thirty men stationed at this place. I have noti- fled Colonel Morrison. The boats to carry the enemy were built in the interior and launched a considerable distance up the Severn River. A man by the name of Fitzhugh is the leader, and, I believe, the same who destroyed the vessels some time ago on the Eastern Shore. I have no way of forwarding the parties giving the iiiformation, or I would send them at once. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. E. FLEMING, Captain and Provost-Marshal. [First indorsement.] OFFICE OF PROVOST-MARSHAL, DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., Fort Monroe January 16, 1865. Respectfully referred to Brigadier- General Shepley, commanding Dis- trict of East Virginia, for his information. A. GILCHRLST, Captain and Provost-Marshal. [Second indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS I)ISTRICT OF EAST VIRGINIA, Norfolk, Va., January 17, 1865. Respectfully forwarded, with the recommendation that one or more army gun-boats be sent to look after this force. G. F. SHEPLEY, Brigadier- 6~eneral, Co~~manding. FORT MAGRUDER, January 15, 1865. Colonel WEBSTER, Chief Quartermaster: It is of the utmost importance that I should have a boat to cross over my cavalry and inflintry front Yorktown to Gloucester. There is over fifty of the enemy in Matthews County, and their intention is to destroy the light-house on Mob Jack Bay and to destroy the light-ship in the l)ay. I am requested by Captain Fleming, provost-marshal at York- town to act at once in the matter, and he thinks they could be caught. They have sent for more force. I have men enongh, but I cannot get my cavalry across the river. Can you not send me some boat to ferry them~ Please answer at once. J. J. MORRISON, Colonel, Commanding Post Page 140 140 N. AND SE. VA., N. cx, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYTIl. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, On Federal Point, N. C., January 15, 1865. Brig. Gen. JOHN A. RAWLWs, (Received 9.10 a. m. 17th.) Chief of Steff, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that Fort Fisher was carried by assault this afternoon and evening by General Ames division and the Second Brigade of the First Division of the Twenty-fourth Army Corps, gallantly aided by a battalion of marines and seamen from the navy. The assault was preceded by a heavy bombardment from the Federal fleet, and was made at 3.30 p. in., when the First Brigade (Cur- tis) of Ames division effected a lodgement upon the parapet, but full ~possession of the work was not obtained until 10 p. in. The behavior of both officers and men was most admirable. All the works south of Fort Fisher are now occupied by our troops. We have not less than 1,200 prisoners, including General Whiting and Colonel Lamb, the commandant of the fort. I regret to say our loss is severe, especially in officers. I am not yet able to form any estimate of the number of casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General, Connnanding Expedition. OFF FORT FISHER, N. C., January 15, 1865. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, (Received 11.30 a. in. 17th.) Secretary of the Navy: SIR: Fort Fisher is ours. I send a bearer of dispatches with a brief account of the affair. General Terry is entitled to the highest praise and the gratitude of his country for the manner in which he has con- ducted his part of the operations. He is my beau ideal of a soldier and a genera]. Our co-operation has been most cordial; the result is victory, which will always be ours when the Army and Navy go hand in hand. The navys loss in the assault was heavy; the armys loss is also heavy. D. D. PORTER, Rear-Admiral. NEAR Fomr FISHER, January 15, 186512 rn. Admiral PORTER: The enemy are landing troops at Fort Buchanan. Can you hurt them? C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel Aide-de- Camp, Chief Engineer. HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, Brig. Gen. H. L. ABBOT, U. S. Volunteers: January 15, 1865. GENERAL: I have ordered a detail of 300 men to be made for you. I dont know just where you will land, but the men will be on the beac Page 141 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 141 looking out for you. Get four guits ou shore, if you can; indeed, I do not know that you can get too many of them. We expect to try the fort this afternoon. Very respectfully, & c., ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet itliajor- General of Volunteers. JANUARY 15, 1865. (Received 7 p. in.) General ABBOT: Have all your boats with small ammunition come to my headquar- ters. TERRY, General. JANUARY 15, 1865. General TERRY: I have no small ammunition. I snppose the telegram to be nuisdi. rected to me, instead of the officer in charge of the light guns. II. L. ABBOT. JANUARY 15, 1865. General PAINE: Will you have the kindness to give Captain tYKeefe a detail of 100 nien, to work, so long as he needs them, on a battery intended to keep the Chickamauga out of our way~ C. B. COMSTOCK Lieutenant-Colonel, Aide-de- Camp, and Chief Engineer. FORT MONROE, January 15, 186510.30 a. m. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, City Point: Steamer California leaves here at 12 oclock. Captains of steamers returned from expedition to Wilmington report all forces safely and nicely landed on Friday last, and skirmishing going on about Fort Fisher. They supposed it already in our possession. Of course none of the troops that left here last are included. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. ROBJNETT, Captain and Aide-de-Camp Page 142 142 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHiP. LYlIL. HARPERS FERRY, Jannury 15, 1865. (Received 12.55 p. in,) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have received the following from General Crook in relation to the Beverly affair: Sconts returned from Beverly report 4 men killed and 12 wounded of the Eighth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry; none killed and 3 wounded of the Thirty-fourth Ohio Infantry. Of the rebels 6 were wounded, one of whom, Colonel Cook, lost his leg. Citizens estimate that 450 of our men were taken prisoners. Lieutenant-Colonels Youart and Furney escaped after being taken some distance. The rebels moved toward Lewisburg. Nearly 200 stragglers have reported at Philippi and Buckhan- non. Expect to have telegraph opened to-morrow. GEORGE CROOK, Major- General. I am now on my way to make an inspection of the Department of West Yirginia. P. H. SHERIDAN, SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 13. ~ January 15, 1865. * * * * * 2. Col. 0. Edwards, Thirty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers, is relieved from (luty with this army, and will proceed to join his com- mmd. with permission to delay en ronte twenty (lays from the 19th instant. Capt. T. G. Colt, acting assistant adjutant-general, has per- mission to accompany him~ By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, VA., January 15, 18657 p. rn. (Received 8 p. in.) Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief ot. Stan Department of Washington: Lieutenant-Colonel Clendenin and detachment El ghth Illinois Cav- alry have just returned, with 13 prisoners, two of them officers, about 300 sheep, and 30 horses found near White Plains, moving south; one rebel killed; no loss of our men or horses. The detachment Thirteenth and Sixteenth New York Cavalry returned this afternoon. Three prisoners received. Official reports from the officers in charge will be forwarded as soon as received. W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade Page 143 CHAP. LVIII.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 143 WASHINGTON, I). C., January 15, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Cumberland: It is expected that within a few day~ a part, at least, of General Schofields corps will arrive at Parkersburg for transportation over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to Annapolis. You will be prepai~el to have guards at all stations to prevent desertions, and you will close all grog shops in the places through which they pass. I shall probably be able to notify you more definitely of the time of their passage through your department. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chif of & aff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIvisIoN, January 15, 1865. Colonel SCHOONMAKER, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: The general commanding desires that you will send out 200 men, in charge of your most reliable field officer, in search of the ~)arty just reported by Captain Hogeboom. He will move between 10 oclock and midnight. Instruct him to keep well on the alert and not to halt his command oftener than possible and not to go into camp. Respectfully, & c., WILL IRUMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, I)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, January 15, 1865. Colonel CAPEHART, Commanding 8econd Brigade: COLONEL: A party of 100 of Mosbys men are reported to have crossed the river to day. The general desires you to notify the picket of your brigade on the Millwood pike and at Greenwood Church and direct them to l)e on the alert. Respectfully, & c., WILL RUMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cumberland, Md., January 15, 1865. Major MCCOWN, Thirteenth Virginia Volunteers: MAJOR: Your regiment will be loaded upon the cars at this point as speedily as possible and moved for Clarksburg without delay. It is reported that the enemy are moving against Clarksburg and will reach that point some time to-day. You can readily perceive the necessity of preventing any unnecessary delay. Upon arriving at Clarksbur Page 144 144 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. you will report to Colonel Wilkinson and be subject to his orders. Keep your men in the ears and assist the company by preventing the men from straggling from the cars. By command of Major-General Crook: ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 15, 186511.20 a. m. Maj. iR. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant- General, Cumberland: Have directed the Eighth Ohio Cavalry to concentrate at Philippi, also the Thirty-fourth Ohio Infantry. Communication by wire not yet open with Beverly. Lieutenant-Colonel Yonart is at Philippi, with orders to make a fall report of the Beverly disaster. All quiet at Beverly. Will make disposition of the Twenty-third Ohio and Thir- teenth West Virginia as circumstances may demand. All quiet at Weston and Buckliannon. No communication yet with Bulltown. Scouts sent that direction not returned; have probably gone there. Telegraphed General Kelley yesterday of the killed and wounded at Beverly. Am now of opinion that the rebels got more of our men than stated in that dispatch. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Lou~ CREEK, January 15,1865. Col. J. H. OLEY, Commanding, J~c., Charleston I have received the following information from Lewisburg and vicinity this morning: A rebel lieutenant and nine men came down the Lewisburg road day before yester- day within ten miles of Gauley. The Sixtieth Virginia Infantry is at Lewisburg, said to be 240 strong; also the old Twenty-second is reported to be there, but not certain. They say they are sent there to recruit. A small scouting party is reported to be near Carnifix Ferry, Gauley River. I shall watch theni. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, Commanding Post. WAR DEPARTMENT, January 16, 18653.30 p. m. Lientenant-General GRANT, City Point: Reports have lately reached this Department of an extensive trade with the rebels carried on throagh Norfolk. One of these reports esti- mates the amount sent out froni within our lines there at ~lOO,OOO daily. Provisions for Lees army are said to be the main article of export. Boats are said to be sent through on each side with unbroken cargoes. General Butler, who has jast arrived here, renews the general state- ument without specifying any amount of basiness. He says the trade is carried on under the recent orders of the Treasary Department fo Page 145 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 145 buying the products of the rebel States, and allowing one-fourth of the value to go back in supplies. He has shown me a memorandum, which he says is in the handwriting of a rebel quartermaster, respecting pro- posals to exchange cotton for provisions upon this basis. It is also reported from the West that extensive arrangements have been made to supply the rebel armies there with food and other necessaries from withiu onr lines undei- cover of the same Treasury orders. Please cause the facts at Norfolk to be investigated, and advise this Depart- miment what action you deem to be necessary in the premises upon mili- tary grounds. C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., January 16, 1865. (Received 5 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The following has been received from General Terry. Orders have been given for everythiiig required. * U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 12. City Point, Va., January 16, 1865. I. Lient. Col. Horace Porter, aide-dc-camp, will proceed without delay to Fort Monroe, and look after the pl-ompt preparation of vessels by the quartermasters department there that it has been instructed to get ready for the transportation of troops from here. Any orders to the qnartermastem-, commissary, and ordnance depart- ments iiecessary to facilitate the purpose of this order, and to carry ont such verbal instructions in the premises as have been communi- cated to him, he is authorized to make in the name of the lieutenant- general commanding. * * * * * * * By command of Lientenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 17 [16j, 18659 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel BOWERS, City Point: Will the lieutenant-general be at home to-day? GEO. G. MEADE, ]I1~ajor- General. See Terry to Rawlins, .lanuary 13, p. 122. 10 11 RvOL XLYI~ PT I Page 146 146 N. AND SE, VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVHI. CITY POINT, January 16, 1865. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Maj. Gen. G. G. MEADE: General Grant will not be home before to-morrow. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, January 16, 1865. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Va.: The Coehorn mortars asked for by your telegram of the 5th instant were at Fort Monroe on the 11th instant. WM. MAYNADJER, Colonel and Acting Chief ~f Ordnance. JANUARY 16, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commandi g Army of the Potomac: We have had today nnder examination a number of deserters from all parts of the line on the north and sonth sides of the James River. From the examination of those from the north side, some of whom came in this morning to headquarters Army of the Potomac, we are satisfied that the position of each regiment of every brigade ot the several divis- ions south of the Apponiattox is exactly the one given in the map lately furnished from this office. l)ay before yesterday Colonel Giles came from Richmond and reported to his command (in Corses brigade) that the brigade was going to Goldsboi-ongh, N. C. The mail carrier of the brigade reported that th~ women were being moved south from facto- ries in Richmond, also that machinery was being moved, and that the names of all wishing to leave Richmond were being taken. There was a minor in Richmond that General Thoina& forces were advancing toward Richmond. One of the men from the Twenty-ninth Virginia, which is in Corses bri~ade, says that a friend of his told him that he had assisted in taking down a part of the machinery in the Tredegar Iron- Works, and that it was undeistood among the workmen that the machinery was being forwarded to Salisbury, N. C.; that the govern- ment had purchased the private iron-works of Edward Eddinger, which were also being removed; and officers looked forward to being removed at some period in the future. The rations seem to be cut down in meat, but to be full as regards flour and vegetables, when they get them. It would seem that one brigade of Kershaws division did not go southnamely, Bryaiis (Georgia) brigade, now com- manded by Colonel McGlashan. There is also a rumor that Greggs (Texas) brigade went to North Carolina. Perhaps this brigade weiit in the place of Bryans. There are also some indefinite rumors about sending some of the heavy artillery regiments to Charleston from the defenses of Richmond. We had n~ news from Richmond during yester- day, as was expected. All the bridges over the Chickahominy being carried away our people were unable to cross. Ingress and egress are denied by all roads between the Chickahominy and the James. PAUL A. OLIVER, C~ptain, d~c Page 147 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 147 SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT.. ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 24. ~ Washington, January 16, 1865. * * * * * * 40. As soon as he has received official notice of his exchange, Capt. J. L. Greene, assistant adjutant-general of-volunteers (a paroled prisoner of war), will report in person without delay to Brevet Major-General Kautz, U. S. V olunteers, commanding Cavalry Division, Department of Virginia and North Carolina, for assignment to duty. * * ~- * * * 61. Permission to -visit Washington City, D. C., during his present leave of absence is hereby granted Maj. Gen. H. G. Wright, U. S. Vol- unteers. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NICHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 16, 1865. CORPS COMMANDERS: Reports of signal officers and division commanders render it nec- essary for the corps to be liept on the alert. The Second Corps may expect a movement on the left. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 16, 18652.45 p. m. CORPS COMMANDERS (except Second Corps): No necessity exists for your keeping on the alert. ALEX. ~. WEBB, Brevet Major General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 1865. (Sent 10.50 a. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Seven deserters from the enemy and one contraband are reported to have come into our lines during the night. A. A. HITMPHTIEYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 18651.15 p. m. lVLij. Gen. A. S. 1A EBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: General Mott reported to me about half an hour ago that it was reported to him that the enemy had shown a skirmish line in front of our pickets in the open fields of the Cummings house on the Vaugha Page 148 148 N. AND SE, VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIII. road. I have given the necessary directions for the command to get under arms quickly (General Mott had already done so for his division), and have sent out to see what the facts amount to. Will report as soon as I learn. Have sent to other parts of the picket-line. It is probable the enemy have thought the working parties on the front were intended to conceal some operation elsewhere. Heretofore they have had a few vedettes only in the Cummings fields. A. A. HUMPHitEYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 18652 p. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: I send report of General Mott. Have heard nothing from my staff officers. A. A. HUMPIIIREYS, ][ft~jor- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 18651.30 p. m. Maj. S. CARNOROSS Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have just returned from the picket-line. It appears that a foraging party came out of the woods into the corn-field in front of the Wyatt house to get some corn. The number variously estimated from 30 to 100; the latter is prObably the maximum. I sent a party out to the woods for the purpose of feeling of theni; will notify you as soon as I hear. Very res~~ctfully, your .o bedient servant, G. MOTT, Brecet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Januarn 16, 18652.10 p. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chi of Staff, Army of the Potomac: My staff officer has returned and reports that the enemy has no skirmish line in the fields of the Cummings house on the Vaughan road, but nierely the usual cavalry vedettes. The report of their hav- ing a skirmish line there grew out of the fact that a skirmish line of about fifty men advanced into the corn-field in front of Colonel Wyatts house to cover the collection of some corn, but retired upon the ad- vance of a party from our outposts. Reports froni all other parts of the picket-line show everything to l)e quiet. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding Page 149 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 149 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 18G5 p. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army oJ the Potomac: The following report from General Mott received. I sni)pose I may- send out and gather the corn: HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY Coars, Jo nary 16, 18652.30 p. m. Mnj. S. CARNCnOSS, Assi~iant Adjutant-General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: The party I sent out has returned. They advanced through the woods, found where the foraging party had rendezvoused, but report that they had all left. As I suspected, it was a l)arty to get the corn in front of the Wyatt house. As there. is some left yet, I have tile honor to apply for permission to send a party and gather- it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major- General. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQuARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,, January 16, 18655 p. in.. Major-General HUMPHREYS: Send out for the corn, and gobble ill) some rebels, too, if you can.. GEO. G. MEADE, ]Iiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 18655.30 p. in. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: I send three reports. I think the report of the signal officer is most likely to be correct. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General, Corn manding. [Inclosure No. Ij HEABQITARTERS FIRST DIvisioN, SECOND ARMY CORPS January 16, 18654.21 ~ in. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: The commander-of the picket at the Boswell house reports that the enemy are moving troops and a large wagon train fioiii their left to their right. In the absence of General Macy, very respectfully, RICHARD A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 150 150 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. [Inclosure No. 2.] CHURCH IROAD SIGNAL STATION, January 16, 18655 p. m. Captain THICKSTUN: There are no troops moving on either Boydton or Cox roads, neither can I discover any wagons moving on either of those roads. There has been a regiment of enemy~s infantry (about 500 strong) drawn up in line and inspected. They now have returned to their quarters, about half a mile to our right of the Boissean property. There has been a working party (about 150 strong) at work near the Boydton road, at a point about twenty degrees north of west. They were a good deal scattered, but I was unable to determine what they are doing. A train of cars just passed, in direction of Petersburg, 011 Sonth Side Railroad. During the day ii have noticed seventy wagons moving westward on Cox road, and twenty moving in direction of Petersburg on same road. No trains of more thaii six wagons noticed. VAN B. SLEEPER, Sergeant, Signal Corps. [Inclosure No. 3.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvIsIoN, January 16, 1865. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: Upon my return to quarters I learn that a report has been made to the effect that a force of the enemy and some wagons had been seen passing to the enemys right. The officer commanding picket-line near Boswel1~s hduse judges the force to have been about 2,000, and twenty wagons. The force moved toward the right of the enemys line. Very respectfully, GEG. N. MACY, Brevet Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SE~5OND ARMY CORPS, January 16, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICERS FIRST, SECoNn, AND THIRD DIVISIONS, AND ARTILLERY BRIGADE: SIRS: I am directed by the commanding general to inform you that your command need no longer be kept under arms, but that the officers and men should remain in camp ready to fall in at short notice if required. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. J. MILLS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARTY. BRIG., 2D ARMY CORPS, No. 12. January 16, 1865. I. Battery commanders who have their commands in readiness to move can unhitch and unharness, but will keep their men well in hand. * * - . * * * * By command of Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Hazard: U. D. EI)DY, Lieutenant and A etinq Assistant Adjutant- Generat Page 151 CHAP. LViII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 151 HEADQUARTERS SIXTH Aui~iy Coups, January 16, 1865. (Received 9.10 a. in.) Maj. S. F. BARsTow, Assistant Adjutant-General: Nothing to report for the last twenty-four hours. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Corn manding. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 16, 1865. (Received 5.10 p. in.) Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: My corps officer of the day reports dense smoke arising in rear of Petersburg. ii. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HEADQITARTERS SIXTH Coups, January 16, 1865. Division commanders will keep their troops within hand and ready for any movement that may be ordered. C. A. WHITTIER, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTER~S NINTH ARMY Coups, January 16, 1865. (Received it a. in.) Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Nothing new along our lines. Five deserters from the enemy are rel)ortedfOur from Forty-sixth Virginia and one from Twenty-second South Carolina. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. CITY POINT, January 16, 1865. Major-General OuD: What is the effective strength of the two brigades of General Terrys division now here~ Please telegraph answer at once. JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THt JAMES, January 16, 1865. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: The three brigades of General Terrys division now here number 5,608 enlisted men effective. Aggregate effective, 5,843. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General Page 152 152 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT NA J Chief Quartermaster, Dept. of Va. and N. C., Fort Monroe, Va.: As fast as steamers arrive at Fort Monroe on their return from the expedition under Major-General Terry, have them coaled, watered, and provisioned for the same length of time and to the same extent as they were coaled, watered, and provisioned for their recent trip. The chief commissary at Fort Monroe will put fifteen days rations on each vessel for the number of troops it is capacitated to carry. As fast as each vessel is so supplied send forward to the quartermaster at this place. Vessels sufficient to carry 4,00(1 men and 50 six-mule teams are required. Should any other vessels than those that were in the expedition with General Terry be taken, coal, water, and provision them in same manner as those that were. Promptitude in the execution of this order is required. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chi~f of Stafr HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 16, 1865. Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT: Richmond Examiner of the 16th contains the following: We learn late last night that the enemy continued his fire on Fort Fisher through- out Saturday and Sunday, but without the least injury to the fort. The party which lau(led below are endeavoring to throw up fortifications, but are obstructed by the Confederate artillery. B. OBRIEN. GENERAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 10. $ In the Field, January 16, 186.5. I. Hereafter and until further orders the troops of this command will be under arms at reveille, which will be sounded at daybreak. The regimental adjutant, all company officers, and one field officer, or, in case there is no field officer in the regiment, an officer acting as such, will be present. The adjutant will receive the reports from the company commanders and report to the field officer all absent without proper authority. Brigade and division commanders will send their staff officers at reveille to see if this order is executed. The practice of staft~ officers at various headquarters remaining abed until 9 or 10 oclock must be stopped. The days duties begin at guard-mount and officers must all be ready at that time. II. All applications for leaves of absence or furloughs, to whatever authority made, must state the reasons, and, if for furlough, the appli- cant will send proof of the truth thereof. In compliance with orders from headquarters Armies of the United States, such applications will only be granted in extreme cases. By command of Major-General Ord: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 153 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 153 hEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTh ARMY CORPS, January 16, 1~6t. Lieutenant-Colonel SMVrH: There are four brigades in the First Division. The three now here number, present for duty, 5,972. Exclusive of the fourth brigade there are present fbr duty 4,231. JOHN GIBBON, Jllajor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IJDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 10. 5 In the Field, Va., January 16, 1865. I. Capt. and Bvt. Maj. A. 11. Embler, Fifty-ninth New York Volun- teers, acting aide-de-camp, is hereby announced as acting inspector- general of the corps, relieving Maj. C. C. Abell. Division inspectors will at once report to Brevet Major Embler for instructions. II. Maj. C. C. Abell, besides his duties as chief of artillery, will also perform those of chief ordnance officer of the corps, pursuant to the act of Congress approved July 17, 1862. Captain Male will report to Major Abell as assistant. III. Capt. William E. Potter, Twelfth New Jersey Volunteers, aide- de-canip, is appointed judge-advocate of the corps. Each division commander will, as soon as practicable, appoint a judge-advocate for his division, and will direct him to report to Captain Potter for instruc- tions. By command of Maj. Gem John Gibbon: THEODORE READ, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS,) JIDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD Div., K TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 3. 5 January 16, 1865. In obedieiice to Special Orders, No. 11, dated headquarters Third Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, January 16, 1865 I her command of this brigade. , eby assume EDGAR M. CULLEN, Colonel Ninety-sixth New York Volunteers. GENERAL ORDERS, HEAD QUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY FORCES, No. 5. 5 Befire Wilmington, N. C., January 16, 1865. 1. Division and brigade commanders will cause immediate search to be made throughout their coimnands for all quartermasters, commis- sary, and ordnance stores captured in the operations of the last few days, and have them turned in to the chiefs of those departments at these headquarters without delay. II. Maj. Charles E. Pearce, Sixteenth New York Heavy Artillery, is announced as provost-marshal on the staff of the brevet major-general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By order of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. Ii. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 154 154 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. WAR DEPARTMENT, Off Fort Fisher, January 16, 1865. Brig. Gen. N. M. CURTIS, U. S. Volunteers: SIR: You are hereby informed that, for gallant services in the capture of Fort Fisher, the President of the United States has appointed you pro- -x isionally brigadier-general of volunteers in the service of the United States, to rank as such from the 15th day of Jaunary, 1865. Should the Senate advise and consent thereto, you will be commissioned accord- ingly. Immediately on reCeipt hereof please to conimunicate to the War Department, through the Adjutant-General of the Army, your acceptance or non-acceptance. By order of the Secretary of War: B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- Generat. WASHINGTON, 1). C., January 16, 18653.20 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Cumberland: Term of the Ninth Delaware Infantry, guarding prisoners at Fort Delaware, will expire January 23, and it is necessary to replace it with other troops. Have you not dismounted cavalry or some West Virginia regiment that could be sent for that purposel Please answer early. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief qf Staff. HEADQUARTERS PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, DEFENSES SOITH OF THE POTOMAC, Alexandria, Va., January 16, 1865. Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: A party of guerrillas were in the vicinity of Springfield Station last night. This morning they fired on the train going out. I telegraphed Colonel Gamble, and sent some cavalry from Alexandria to look after them. H. H. WELLS, Colonel and Provost-Marshal- General, Defenses, & e. HEADQUARTERS PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, - DEFENSES SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Alexandria, Va., January 16, 1865. Colonel GAMBLE, Commanding First. Separate Brigade, Faifax: It is reported here that there was a detachment of the enemy in camp on Accotink Run, two miles beyond and to the left of Spring- field, about one mile south of tIme house of Mr. Dodson and about onc mile south of Ferdinand Lyles house. Respectfully, II. H. WELLS, (Jolonel and Provost-Marshal- General Page 155 CHAP. LVIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 155 FAIRFAX COuRT-I-lousE, January 16, 18657 p. m. (Received 9.30 a. in. 17th.) Lient. Col. J. 11. TAYLOR, Chief of Staft: Reports from Fairfax Station and Vienna received. None from Col- onel Gansevoort, who never has yet furnished reports promptly. The train this morning was fired into between Springfield and Accotink by about thirty rebel cavalry, dressed in our uiiiformn. No damage done. A squadron immediately started after them. All quiet at this 1)art of the line to Vienna W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. FAIRFAX STATION, VA., January 16, 1865. Capt. CHARLES I. WICKERSIIAM, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fai fax Court-House, TTa.: CAPTAIN: I have just returned from a scout to Wolf Run Shoals. There are evidences of a party of about twenty having gone toward Accotink to-day. Along the whole route I heard of rebels moving in small squads. I did not get to Springfield Station, the time being too short and the distance too great. I got about midway to Springfield, when, it growing dark, I returned. CHAS. ALBIIIGHT, Colonel, Commanding, & c. FORTRESS MONROE, January 1-7, 186510 p. m. To the PRESIDENT: The rebel flag of Fort Fisher x~-as delivered to me on board the steamer Spaniding, oft that place, yesterday, Monday, Jaimnary 16, by Major-General Terry. An acknowledgment and thanks for their gal- lant achievetnent was given in your name to Admiral Porter and General Terry, from whom the following particulars were obtained. The troops arrived off Fort Fisher Thursday night. Friday they were all landed under cover of a heavy fire fuoni the squadron. A recon- naissance was made by General Terry on Saturday. A strong defensive line against any enemys forces coming from Wilnmiimgton was estab- lished on Saturday and held by 4,000 men, chiefly colored troops, and an assault was determined upon. The assault was made on Sun- day afternoon at 3.30 oclock. The sea front of the fort had been greatly damaged amid broken by a continuous and terrible fire of the fleet for three days, and this front was assaulted, at the hour nientioned, by a column of seamen and marines, 1,800 strong, under command of Captain Breese. They reached the parapet, but after a short conflict this column was checked, driven back imi disorder, and was afterward l)laced on the defensive line, taking the place of a brigade that was l)rought up to re-enforce the assaulting column of troops. Although the assault on the sea front failed, it performed a very useful part in diverting the attention of the enemy and weakening their resist- ance to the attack by the troops on the other side. The assault on the other and most difficult side of the fort was made by a col- ninn of 3,000 troops of the 01(1 Tenth Corps, led by Colonel Curtis, undei the immediate supervision of General Terry. The enemy~s forc Page 156 156 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. in the tort was over 2,200. The conflict lasted for seven hours. The works were so constructed that every traverse afforded the enemy a new defensive position, from whence they had to be driven. They were seven in number, and the fight was carried on from traverse to traverse for seven hours. By a skillfully directed fire thrown into the traverses, one after another as they were occupied by the enemy, Admiral Porter contributed to the success of the assaultinc coluinmi. By signals between himself an(l General Terry, at brief intervals, this fire was so well managed as to damage the enemy without injury to our own troops. At about 10 oclock at night the enemy were entirely driven from the fort, forced down toward Federal Point, followed by a brigade of our troops, and about 12 oclock at night General Whiting surrendered himself amid his comniand to General Terry unconditionally, as prisoners of war, numbering over 1,800, the remainder of his force being killed and wounded. Our loss was miot accurately ascertained on Monday after- noon, but was estimated at between 700 and 800 in killed and wounded, besides the naval loss, which was slight, not exceeding 100 in killed and wounded; not a ship nor a transport was lost. Colonel Curtis was severely but not mortally wounded. Colonel Bell died of his wounds Monday morning. Col. J. W. Moore and Lieutenant-Colonel Lymnan were killed. Colonel Pennypacker was badly wounded, also Lieutenant- Colirnel Coan. A complete list of the killed and wounded will be for- warded as soon as it can be prepared. General Terry reported to Sur- geon-General Barnes that he had ample provision of surgeons, nurses, and hospital supplies for the wounded; they will be sent North to their respective States as fast as they can be placed on transports, of which there was ample supply. On Monday morning, between 6 and 7 oclock, the magazine of Fort Fisher exploded, killing and wounding 200 or 300 persons. After the capture of the fort all the troops were with- (irawn except one brigade left in charge of the works. How the explos- ion occurred was not known, but General Terry believed that it was occasioned by accident or negligence. General ilokes division, reported as 5,000, was at Wilmington, a portion of it was thrown into the fort not long before the assault, and while that was going on a demonstration was muade by General Hoke against our defensive line, but it was found too strong for anything more than a skirmishing attack. About 11 oclock Monday morning a heavy cloud of smoke was observed over Fort Smith [Caswell], on the south side of New Imilet. The naval officer coin- manding that station reported that the enemy had fired their barracks and evacuated that fort. You will be pleased to know that perfect har mony amid concert of action existed between the land and naval forces, and their respective commanders. Admiral Porter and General Terry vied in their commendation each of the other; each seemed more amixious to do justice to the other than to claim anything for himself; and they united in the highest commendation of the naval and military officers and the forces engaged. To this harmony of feeling and the confident spirit inspired may perhaps be attributed in some degree the success of an attack, with nearly equal numbers, against a resolute enemy in a work umisurpassed, if ever equaled, in strength, and which General Beauregard a few (lays before pronounced impregnable. The anna- ment of the fort was seventy-two guns, some of large caliber and rifled, an(l one Armstrong gun. The troops in the fort had rations for sixteen days. Their loss in killed and wounded was between 400 and 500. General Whiting had three wounds in the thigh. Colommel Lamb also, who had gone into the tort with re enforcements and to relieve General Whiting on Sunday, is wounded. On Monday everythiimg wa Page 157 Ca& p. LYIH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 157 quiet as a Sabbath day, the dead were being buried, and the wounded collected and placed in transports and field hospitals. General Slier- man renewed the movement of his forces from Savannah last week. The Fifteenth and Seventeenth Corps went in transports to Beau- fort. Saturday, January 14, the Seventeenth Corps, nuder Major- General Blair, crossed Port Royal Ferry, and, with a portion of General Fosters command, moved on Pocotaligo. General Howard, command- irig that wing of the army, reported on Sunday that the enemy abandoned his strong works in our front during Saturday night. Geii- eral Blairs corps now occupy a strong position across the railroad and covering all the approaches eastward to Pocotaligo. All the sick of General Shermans army are in good hospitals at Beaufort and liii- ton Head, where the genial climate affords advantages for recovery superior to any other place. The peace and order prevailing at Savan- nah since its occupation by General Shermans army could not be sur- passed. Few male inhabitants are to be seen in time streets; la(lies and children evince a sense of security; no instance of disorder or personal injury or insult has occurred; laboring men and mechanics, white and black, are seeking eumploymnent. The troops are cheerful and respectful toward everyone, and seem to feel themselves as much at home and on good behavior as if in their native towns. Trade is restricted for the present-to actual military necessity. Many ships with merchandise from the North are waiting at Hilton Head permission to go to Savan- nah, but General Sherman has admitted only a limited quantity of supplies required by his troops. A mistake prevails at the North as to the present inducements for commerce at Savannah. There is not yet any large population to be supplied, imo credit, or money, no commod- ities for exchange, and there can be no great amount for a consider- able period. All the cotton and products now within Savannah belong to the Government as captured property. Stringent l)recautiOns against supplies that might go to the enemy have been made, and will be enhwced by Genera] Sherman. Time cotton captured in Savannah of which there is a good deal of Sea lslammd, has been turned over by the quartermaster to Mr. Draper, special agent of the Treasury. Thc Quartermaster-General remains at Savannah to execute the arrange ments for its shipment. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORTRESS MONROE, January 17, 18G51O p. In. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point I have just arrived fromn Savannah, having stopped six hours yester- day at Fort Fisher. lXly telegram to the Presideut,* a copy of which goes with this, gives time particulars learned from Adnmiral Porter and General Terry, wlso the movements of General Shermans force. I staid with Shermnan four days, and would be glad to see you so as to communi - cate some other matters that cannot sat~ly be written, but am too unwell to go to City Point, if you can come here. At General Shermans request North Carolina was put in time i)epartment of the South and a(lded to his comumand. General Townseimd will send you a copy of the order. Please let me know if I shall wait imere to see you. EI)WIN M. STANTON, __ Secretary of War. See next, ante Page 158 158 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. President A. LINCOLN: From the Richmond papers of to-day I learn that on yesterday Judge Halliburton, of the Confederate court of the Eastern District of Virginia, issued a writ of habeas corpus, on the petition of Governor Foote, returnable on Thursday next. It is supposed by the papers, however, that this matter was settled yesterday by the Confederate House of Representatives declaring that they are of opinion that the good of the country would not be subserved by the forced attendance of said member upon the sessions of this House, but that under all the circumstances of the case it is expedient that the military authorities discharge hiiu from custody. It is presumed that Mr. Foote has already been placed at liberty. U. S. GRAI~T, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of iVar: As a substantial recoguition of the bravery of both officers and men in the capture of Fort Fisher. and the importaiit service thereby ren- dered their country, I do most respectfully recommend Bvt. Maj. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. S. Volunteers, their commanding officer, for apJ)ointnlent as brigadier-general in the Regular Army. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretarq ~ War: The following official dispatch from Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry, coinmauding the laud forces operating against Fort Fisher, announcing its capture by the united valor of the army and navy, is just received.* I have ordered a salute of 100 guns to be fired by each army here in honor of their great triumph. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 17, 18658.10 p. m. Licut. Gen. U. S. GHANT, City Point: Mr. F. P. Blair, sr., will go immediately to Richmond. Will you be good enough to telegraph me when he can go through by water, if pos- sible, so there shall be no delay. He is too old to endure the fatigue of a land riiarch and delay. I congratulate you upon the Federal Point affair. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. See Terry to Rawlins, January 15, p. 140 Page 159 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 159 CITY POINT, January 17, 1865. Major-General HALLECK: (Received 2.15 p. in.) Please call the attention of the Surgeon-General to the necessity of sending a hospital steamer to Fort Fisher for the purpose of taking care of our wounded. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, January 17, 18658.45 a. rn. Major-General MEADE: The following dispatch just received.* In honor of this signal victory you will fire a salute of 100 gnus. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of & aff. (Same to General Ord.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 17, 186510.45 a. in. Brigadier-General RAWLINS: A salute of 100 guns will be fired this day at 12 m. iii honor of the brilliant and glorious capture of Fort Fisher, which I deem to be one of the most importalit events that could have occurred at this time, and on which I most heartily congratulate the licutemmant-general command- ing. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 25. Washington, January 17, 1865. * -* * * * * 36. So much of Special Orders, No. 442, December 12, 1864, from this office, as directed Brig. Gen. George J. Stannard, U. S. Volun- teers, to report in person without delay to the Governor of the State of Vermont for such duties as might be assigned to him during his convalescence, and until further orders, is hereby revoked and the following substituted: Brig. Gen. George J. Stannard, U. S. Volunteers, will report in person without delay to the commanding general Department of the East for such duties as may be assigned him during his convalescence, and until further orders. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: W. A. NiCHOLS, Assistant Adjutant- General. See Corustock to Grant, Part I, p. 405 Page 160 160 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 1G. January 17, 1865. * * * * * * * 2. So much of paragraph 6, Special Orders, No. 3, of January 3, 1865, from these headquarters, as reduces th~ forage rations of cavalry and artillery horses is hereby rescinded. 3. A salute of 1OQ guns will be fired at 12 m. to-day in honor of the capture of Fort Fisher on the 15th instant. The chief of artillery is charged with the execution of this order. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 17, 1865. CORPS COMMANDERS: The general commanding sends the following for the information of corps commanders.* In honor of the fall of Fort Fisher a salute of 100 gum~s will be fired to-day. Corps commanders are authorized and re- quested to endeavor to let the enemy know of the fall of Fort Fisher by assault. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 17, 186510.55 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Seven deserters from the enemy caine into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 17, 18656.40 p. rn. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: The following just received: HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISIoN, SzcoND ARMY Conps, January 17, 1865. Maj. S. CARNCIIOSS, Ass~staat Adjetant-Geeeral, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that at about sunset a force of the enemy, about fixe or six regiments, w:is seen to pass to their left at a point bearing north- west from Fort Welch. 1 do not regard the movement as of any importance. Very respectfully, GEO. N. MACY, Breret Brigadier- General, Commanding. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. See Comstock to Grant, Part I, p. 405 Page 161 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 161 HDQRS. ARTiLLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. Maj. SEPT. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that yesterday, in accordance with instructions received from the major-general commanding the corps, I held three batteries in readiness to move until informed that it was no longer necessary. The command is still kept on the alert, but not under arms. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Brevet Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. Brevet Brigadier-General MACY, - Commanding First Division: SIR: The commanding general desires that the pickets of your divis- ion be instructed to call out to the enemys pickets that Fort Fisher was captured by our troops on the 15th instant. Full particulars will be sent you shortly. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARKOROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvIsION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. Maj. SEPT. CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that no changes have taken place in the lines of this division. A small foraging party of the enemy appeared in front of the Wyatt house yesterday, and after gathering a small quantity of corn left without making any demonstration. Koth- ijig farther of note has occurred since my last report. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. R. MCALLISTER, Commanding Third Brigade: The brevet major-general commanding directs that you detail a regi- ment of not less than 250 men, under a reliable and energetic com- manding officer, for a short foraging expedition to-morrow. The corn- manding officer will report at these headquarters for instructions this evening. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. 11 R RVOL XLVI, PT I Page 162 162 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQIJARTEI~S FIFTH CORPS, January 17, 1865. [General G. K. WARREN:] Mv DEAR GENERAL: I send you a line to-night. Everything is going smoothly. General Meade has returned, but I think will again go on leave. We are all in excitement iii regard to Fort Fisher. I am sorry for Weitzel. The corps is in first rate condition, but I regret very much to say to you that thQre seems to be some probability of our being ordered to relieve the Ninth Corps. I trust you will be able to prevent this, or at least to compromise. It will very seriously effect the efficiency of our men to move them again. We took the field and gave our tents to the Sixth Corps. We have twice erected stables for our animals, and have left them as they were completed. We might picket by detail on the Ninth Corps front, or, if that corps must be moved, why not relieve it by the Sixth Corps instead of yours l At any rate we look to you to help us out. The men do not and will ruot] believe that we are to move. They have worked so hard. The railroad is now being laid to the Second Swamp, and will be completed in a few days. It is very necessary that it should be done at once, as our trains are short of forage and it will save us very much. We look for you back in a very few days, and I assure you I shall he very glad to see you. I received Roeblings cards to-day, and I wish him the entire measure of all earthly happiness in his married life. Sincerely, yours, ~. W. CRAWFORD. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. (Received 10.40 a. in.) Bvt. Lieut. Col. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- Ceneral: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this command during the past twenty-four hours. Major-General Wright left for Washington this morning. GEG. W. GETTY Brevet Major- Generat, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. (Received 11.50 a. in.) Major-General WEBB: Nothing new in our front. It is reported that a rebel lieutenant deserted last night. He has not yet arrived at these headquarters. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- aenerat. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Iforwardtotheprovost-marshaltwodesertersLieutenantAtchison, Fifty-ninth Virginia, and Lieutenant Pittinan, Forty-fifth Georgia; the former from Bushrod Johnsons division, the latter from Wilcox. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- (#eneral Page 163 CHAr. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETO.UNION. 163 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 17, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Three cheers for the fall of Fort Fisher. I will send the news at once to our picket-line. Allow me to suggest that the dispatch be printed on general-order paper and ~distributed along the picket-line. In that way the rank and file of the enemy will be informed of the facts. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 17, 1865. (Received 12.15 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: What supplies, if any, of troops, ammunition, commissary stores, & c., do you wish me to send to General Terry at Wilmington ~ E. 0. C. ORD, llliajor- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. Major-General ORD: Everything at present necessary for General Terry is being supplied from here. JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS, January 17, 18653 p. m. Licut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding U. S. Army: In to-days Sentinels report of proceedings of rebel House of Repre- sentatives yesterday is a warm debate upon an article of the Sentinel, stigmatizing as treason the proposition before the House iu secret session to open negotiations for peace. A motion to allow resolutions to come lip which pronounced the Sentinel article false was lost~ vote, 32 ayes, 36 noes. Smith, of Alab ania, regarded this vote as indorsing the Sen- tinels article, and left to go home. Afterward they took a vote on a resolution that no privilege had been violated in arresting Foote, one of their members, and that he be left to the care of the military; lost; vote, 36 noes, 35 ayes. I think these proceedings important enough to telegraph to the President. Barksd ale quelled the storm by stating by authority that the Sentinel was not Mr. Davis organ. E. 0. C. ORD, Major. General Page 164 164 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYJIL CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. ORD, Commanding Army of the James: Fifty six-mule teams will be sent from here to-morrow evening to General Terry. Please send a sufficient number of teamsters to go with them. JNO. A. IRAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 17, 18659.40 p. m. General RAWLINS, Chief of Stafr~: I have put the matter of teams, quartermaster, and drivers for Terry in the hands of Chief Quartermaster Plato, but Plato did not reason well, so I have directed the detail of teamsters from the teamsters now on duty, to be sent to City Point to-morrow morning iu the mail-boat, by corps commanders; but the quartermasters department of this army is headless, and I doubt if they will arrive in time. I hope General Grant approved my letter calling for Lieutenant-Colonel Howard as my chief- quartermaster. E. 0. C. 01-iD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 17, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Shall I discontinue work on 1)utch Gap ~ The commodore of the river flotilla has stated to m~ that he would not attempt to go through the canal, if completed, until the battery now commanding it and the river above are captured. The freshet has washed iii a quantity of earth from the banks, and the amount of labor to clear out the canal is reported by the engineer to be still very large and the labor very dan- gerous. E.G. C. ORD, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. Major-General ORD: You may stop work on the Dutch Gap Canal. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, [January] 17, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE: I am just mounting some more guns on the Bermuda front and shall require all of Abbots companies now there to man them amid their works. E.G. C. GilD, Major- General Page 165 ~AIAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 165 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 17, 1865. Major-General ORD, Commanding Army of the James: Your telegra in to General Meade received. The company of the Con- necticut regiment will not be (listurbed. 1 will find one on this side. Understood that there was a disposable battery with yon. Abbot took off two of mine. HENRY J. HUNT, Brevet Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 17, 1865. Col. iR. C. WEBSTER, Quartermaster, Fort Monroe: The order to you of date yesterday, to coal, water, and provision ves- sels sufficient to carry 4,000 troops and 50 six-mule teams, is counter- inanded except as to the teams. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of staff. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 17, 186510.25 a. in. Fort Fisher was taken on the night of the 15th by the army. The navy aided on one front, but did not get in. They behaved gallantly. Three leading brigade commanders wounded. Curtis led (wound not serious), Pennypackers next, Bells next. Salute of 100 guns, blank cartridges, will be fired to-day at noon on Bermuda front. One thousand prisoners taken, including General Whiting and Colonel Lamb, both wolluded. Turn out the bands. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, Broadway Landing, January 17, 1865. Brevet Major-General HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The battery of 44 Inch guns will be ready by to-morrow afternoon. I have seen General Ord, who entirely refuses to allow any company of First Connecticut Artillery to be taken from Bermuda Hundred lines. I have no other available troops. GEG. B. COOK, Major First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding. NORTH ATLANTIC SQUADRON, U. S. FLAG-SHIP MALVERN, Off Fort Fisher, January 17, 1865. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: SIR: Second Licut. W. W. Clemens, U. S. Signal Corps, was detailed, at my request for a signal officer, l)y the chief of that corps to serve as signal officer on my staff. Mr. Clemens has taught the army cod Page 166 166 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. to at least one of the regular officers on board each ship that had them, which has enabled me often to communicate wheu naval signals would have been of no avail. In addition his services have been to me of the ntmost importance. Thoroughly collected and competent at all times and nnder any circumstances, gentlemanly in his deportment, intelli- gent, always ready and cheerful. 1 hope you will at least send a copy of this to the honorable Secre- tary of War, that it may be placed on file as a slight evidence of my appreciation of him as an officer and a gentleman. Through Mr. Clemens I was in constant communication with General Terry, even during the assault ou Fort Fisher, and was enabled to direct the fire of the New Ironsides to the traverses occupied by the enemy withont fear of hurting our own people, from my complete reli- ance on him. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID D. PORTER, Rear-Admiral. - U. S. STEAMER MENDOTA, - Hampton Roads, January 17, 1865. (Received 9.40 a. in.) Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: The Atlantic is just in from Wilmington. Fort Fisher and wo~ks on Federal Point are in our possession. The assault was made by army and sailors on Sunday afternoon, and by 11 p. in. the works were ours. Losses heavy; Lieuts. B. H. Porter and Preston, of the navy, are killed. Our captures are 72 guns and about 2,500 prisoners. Generals Whit- ing and Lamb are prisoners and wounded. The Vanderbilt is on her way with dispatches. Two15-inch guns were burst on the monitors. E. T. NICHOLS, Commander and Senior Officer. WA5HIN~TON, January 17, 18652.05 p. m. Capt. J. M. BERRIEN Norfolk: Fire a national salute in honor o~ the capture, on the 15th instant, of the rebel works ou Federal Point, near Wilmington, by a combined attack of the army and navy. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. NEAR FORT FISHER, January 17, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Captain Lockwood has General Terrys strong approval of an appli- cation to accompany a gallant officer, Captain Lawrence, who is severely wounded and needs great care, to his home. Can telegraphic authority be sent to Capt. H. C. Lockwood, aide-de-camp, at Fort Monroe, on receipt. of this, to accompany Captain Lawrence to Newport, It. I., an Page 167 CHAP. LVIII.) 167 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. then rejoin his command. The enemy have this morning been blowing up works near Fort Caswell, and it is not impossible that when the navy get down they will find it evacuated. They are moving cautiously. Our prisoners are 1,900; guns, injured and all, reported 72. C. B. COMSTOCK. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Fort Fisher, January 17, 1865. Captain OKEEFE, Fifteenth Neu York Volunteer Engineers: The work to put Fort Fisher in a defensive condition on the south side will be begun to-morrow morning nnder your supervision, and will be continued till further orders. You are authorized to call on the officer commanding the brigade at Fort Fisher for a daily working party to work from 8 a. m. till 12 in., and from 1 to 5p. m. You should collect at once all the spare lumber about the fort for your revetments, and put a guard over it to prevent its being stolen. Three days should put the work roughly in a defensive condition, then more attention can be paid to finish. Please send me a morning report and list of tools. C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel and Brevet Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, January 17, 18653.45 p. rn. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, In West Virginia: Movements of troops from the West are now taking place over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and will be continned for some time to come. Please cause all liquor shops along the line from Parkersbnrg and Bellaire to be kept closed for the present. C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of War. MOOREFIELD, W. VA., January 17, 1865. (Received 11 a. in.) Major-General HALLECK: I will direct General Wallace to send the Maryland regiment that was consolidated a few days ago to garrison Fort Delaware. I have but very few dismounted cavalry. P. II. SHERIDAN, ]I~Eaior- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE SHENANDOAH, January 17, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding District of Harpers Ferry: The major-general commanding directs that you order Colonel Reno to move his regiment onto the Berryville road and as near to Charles Page 168 168 N. ANt~ SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. INIIL town as he can find good and convenient camping ground. Colonel iReno is authorized hereby to use lumber from secessionists farms, as to make his men comfortable. JAS. W. FORSYTH Brevet Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE SHENANDOAH, Brigadier.General MCMILLAN, January 17, 1865. Commanding, Stephensons Depot: GENERAL: Major-General Emory directs that you draw in two regi- ments of infantry from the line of the railroad and post them at Sum- mit Point. This change is made under the supposition that the block- houses are completed. The regiments sent will make themselves com- fortable. JAS. W. FORSYTH Chief of Staff. BALTIMORE MD J Major-General SHERIDAN, , ., anuary 17, 1865. Clarksburg, Va.: The consolidation of the Maryland regimentsviz, First Eastern Shore,Second Eastern Shore, and Eleventh Maryland, is now going on- to form a regiment of ten companies, maximum strength, by order War Department. Four companies can be ready to be sent to Fort Dela- ware on 19th instant; aggregate strength will be over 300 men. Will that answer? It is probably more than the Ninth Delaware has. There is more delay than i~sual in this consolidation, as all the officers were mustered out, and new ones have to be appointed. Shall I send the five companies only? We need the balance of the regiment. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, January 18, 186512.45 a. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your dispatch of 10 oclock last evening has just reached me. Owing to the time that has elapsed I am not confident but that you have left. If I cannot come myse~ leaving here by sun-up, I will send General RawAns, and will run to Washington to see you in a day or two. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORT MONROE, January 18, 18654.05 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Your telegram just received. There is an urgent necessity for me to be in Washington, and as you could not reach here, starting at suii-up, before 12 or 1 oclock, J shall go on to Washington, hoping to see yo Page 169 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 169 there very soon. General Sherman was anxiously expecting the troops that were to sail from Baltimore, but nothing had been heard from them. General Terry wanted the residue of his own division to be sent him. Your recommendation of General Terry for brigadier in the regular service will be carried out. While at Fort Fisher I gave him an appointment of full major-general, and would have also given the brig- adiership, but General Townsend says that there is no vacancy. I am sure there is. It was understood at Savannah that Beauregard had gone west to bring down Hoods forces to operate against Sherman. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, January 18, 1865. (Received 8.45 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: The hospital steamer S. H. Spaulding. a fast sailer, on which I came up, will return to Fort Fisher at 12 oclock to-day. If you have any dispatches or messages to send to General Terry, she will afford the best and surest opportunity. She is at Fortress Monroe. I am just starting for Washington. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., January 18, 18659.30 a. m. (Received 10.50 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washingt~n: I was just starting to Fort Monroe to meet you when your dispatch was received announcing that you were about starting for Washington. Your dispatch of 10 a. [p.] in., 17th did not reach me until about 1 this morning, and was immediately replied to. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., Jan nary 18, 18651.30 p. in. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, (Received 2.55 ~. in.) Secretary of War: Cannot the troops now in the Department of Virginia, and compris- ing the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth Corps, be named as a grand army corps, or given some name to entitle the commanding officer the staff of a corps commander ~ I understand the auditors are rejecting the accounts of department staff officers where the department has not a corps organization. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 170 170 N. AND SE. VA., K. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LVIII. CITY PoINT, January 18, 18657 p. rn. (Received 8 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The confirmation of Thomas and Sheridan to the rank of major-gen- eral in the Regular Army makes two vacancies. I hope General Terry will get one of these. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] WASHINGTON, January 18, 18651 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Mr. Clay, rebel agent in Canada, said to a confidential friend last week that if Fort Fisher fell it would be their policy to hold Wilming- ton at all hazards, even if they had to give np both Petersburg and Richmond, for Wilmington was of more importance to them than the other places. It would be hard, he said, even to live withont Wilming- ton. Richmond was not necessary to Wilmington, but Wilmington was indispensable to Richmond. These were his very words, but wheth!~r they were his own conclusions or the substance of information received from Richmond, my informant cant tell. C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., January 18, 18652.30 p. m. (Received 5 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington: If General Tower can be spared from his present duties, please order him to report to Gener-al Ord for duty. He wants him to relieve Gen- eral Shepley in the command of the District of Norfolk. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. JANUARY 18, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: * * * * * * The following is the organization (present) of Earlys old corps: Gordon commandifrg corps; Battles division (Rodes old); Pegrams division (Earlys old); Grimes division (Gordns old). These three divisions comprise entire remnants of Ewells old corps. Early is at Staunton with a small command. Loss of Fort Fisher not considered by the rebel press as of any particular importance. JNO. C. BABCOCK Page 171 CHAP. LvIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 171 JANUARY 18, 1865. i\Jaj. Gen. GEORGE 0-. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Our scouts have just returned from the Chickahominy, where they met an agent who left Richmond yesterday afternoon. Scouts hav- ing been interfered with, went yesterday afternoon under the cover of a scouting party, which was entirely successful. We believe that the enemy have a line of communication with the James River by sub- stantially the same ronte as our own, of which we hope to give more complete information by the end of the week, in order that it may be broken up. Our scouts do not desire to interfere with it, as thereby their own business would be apparent. Our friends in Richmond say that no movement of troops has taken place since last reports of which any evidence could be obtained in Richmond, and they believe that there has been none whatever. The fall of Fort Fisher was known in the city yesterday at 10 oclock in the inoruing, and immediately there- after, and down to the Lime when our agent left, the rumor was current that Mr. Seddon, the Secretary of War, had resigned. Evacuation is still thc common subject of conversation, and is looked forward to, we are told, by all classes of people. One of our correspondents says they have removed one spike factory from Andersons. These are what are commonly called the Tredegar works, and it is presumed that the same circumstances are alluded to that are reported as having been brought in by a deserter from the Twenty-ninth Virginia, of Corses brigade, a day or two ago. Our correspondent says, with reference to the state of feeling in regard to evacuation and the failing fortunes of the Govern- ment: There is a steamer prepared on the coast of North Carolina, in some creek, to take off the heads of Government. It is to sail cor Nassau, and to go this month, we hear. We shall find out more in a few days. Our friends tell us that they know well that the principal men in the Government and at Richmond are employing agents to go North, via the Northermi Neck, for the purpose of changing everything they have into gold. One Carey, about whom information has been furnished more than once before,hasjnst returned and brought $25,000 in gold for the Govern- ment. Government is now borrowing flour, with the promise of return- ing it at some future time in kind, and whoever has two barrels is obliged to loan one of them to the commissary department. One of our friends, the superintendent of one of the railroads, says that but little progress has been made in the reparation of the Piedmont Railroad; that fifteen days will yet be required to put it in running order; but he and others think that the Government will be able to rub through the present crisis in the want of food until the road is running. Gold was sold yesterday at $107 for $1, and the price of flour was $1,200 a barrel, but there was none to be had. One of our agents says that the torpedo station connected with the torpedoes which are deposited in the James River is in Proctors Creek, south of Drewrys Bluff; that the wires of all the torpedoes which are laid in the river run in there and unite at the station, which is on the bank of the creek. Our friends think that the station could easily be captured. Our attention is again called to a Colonel Fry, a Union officer, in irons in a cell in Castle Thunder, who is greatly emaciated and is living upon very coarse, scanty fare in a damp cell. It is said that there is a desire to kill him without a public execution, and a verbal message is forwarded through our agent that by the sum of $5,000 in Confederate money his liberation can be effected. GEO. II. SHARPE Page 172 172 N. AND SE. VA., N~. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. SPECIAL ORDERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 13. City Point, Va., January 18, 1865. I. Brig. Gen. T. Seymour, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty with the Army of the Potomac, and will proceed to his place of residence, and from there report by letter to the Adjutant-General of the Army, Washington, D. C. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 18, 1865. Brig. Gen. II. W. BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you proceed to New York on the 22d instant, or as soou thereafter as practicable, for the purpose of procuring the proper modification in the manufacture and shape of the picket-shovel now in use in this army. Of these implements you will order 5,000 for this army. You will, if you deem it necessary, both in going and returning, inspect the engineer depot under your charge in Washington. You will return to your command by the 15th of February next. Respectfully, yours, S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 18, 186510.25 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No change in the disposition of this command since last report. Nine deserters from the eneriiy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 18, 18659.15 p. rn. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: The following extract from report of Bureau of Information is respectfully furnished you: Are placing two brass guns in position to fire upon our new signal tower. They are in a battery at the point where MacRaes and Archers old brigades join. This is obtained from deserters of last evening and this a. In. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 173 CUAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 173 HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISIoN, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 18, 1865. Maj. SEPT. CARNUROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that, subject to the approval of the major-general commanding the corps, I have assigned Bvt. Brig. Gen. G. W. West, colonel Seventeenth Maine Volunteers, to the teni- porary command of the First Brigade of this division, in place of Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. J. Madill, ordered to report to Brevet Major-General Miles for assignment. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 18, 1865. (Iteceived 9.45 a. in.) Bvt. Lient. Col. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the last twenty-fonr hours. The abstracts of news relative to Fort Fisher have been given to the corps officer of the day, and every exertion will be made to get them into the hands of the enemys pickets. GEG. W GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQR S. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 12. In the Field, Va., January 18, 1865. The following officers are announced as constituting the corps staff: Col. J. H. Potter, Twelfth New Hampshire Volunteers, chief of staff; Maj. Theodore Read, assistant adjutant-general; Bvt. Maj. A. II. Enibler, Fifty-ninth New York Volunteers, aide-dc-camp, acting assistant inspector-general; Capt. William E. Potter, Twelfth New Jersey Volun- teers, aide-dc-camp, judge-advocate; Capt. Edxv ard Moale, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, aide-dc-camp; Surg. Lavington Quick, medical director; Snrg. A. J. H. Buzzell, medical inspector; Maj. C. C. Abell, chief of artillery and ordnance Capt. W. H. Male, assistant chief of ordnance; Lient. Col. J. B. Howard, chief qnarterinaster; Maj. Nelson Plato, assistant t~ the chief quartermaster; Lient. H. F. Gerrish, acting assist- ant quartermaster; Capt. M. A. Hill, chief commissary of subsistence; Lient. C. W. Wells, assistant commissary of subsistence; C apt. T. E. Lord, assistant commissary of musters; Capt. D. P. Barnard, chief of ambulances; Capt. L. N. Converse, acting provost-marshal; Lient. D. L. Craft, chief signal officer. They ~vill be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Maj. Gen. John Gibbon: THEODORE READ, Major and Assistant Adjutant. General Page 174 174 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 18, 1865. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General: COLONEL: I send you Private J. C. Logan, Fifth Texas Infantry, who came from Richmond last night. He says he was escorted through the lines by a large party of his comrades, who he says would have come with him if they were assured of good treatment. He is willing to retnrn and take with him copies of the order of General Grant, which he says is unknown in his regiment. He may possibly be a spy of the enemy, but as he has iiot seen anything, and need not see any- thing, it is quite safe to send him back. I would recommend that he be sent back to-night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AUGUST V. KAUTZ, - Brigadier and Brevet Major- General, Commanding Divsston. HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, EASTERN SHORE OF VIRGINIA, Eastville, January 18, 1865. Maj. W. HOFFMAN, - Assistant Adjutant- General: MAJOR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a communi- cation requiring inc to furnish a ~tatement of the force now under my command upon this shore! and in reply to state there is at present upon dutyCompany L, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, 3 commissioned officers, 71 enlisted men; Company A, Purnells cavalry, 3 commis- sioned officers, 71 enlisted men; Company A, First Loyal Virginia Volunteers, 2 commissioned officers, 82 enlisted men; detachment of Third Pennsylvania Artillery, 1 commissioned officer, 39 enlisted men. The- above force is stationed in small squads at the different towns upon the shore, from Cape Charles to the Maryland line, and also as a patrol along the telegraph line, a distaiice of eighty miles. Their principal duties are to patrol the telegraph line, and to prevent improper communication betw cen this shore and the western shore of Virginia. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK J. WHITE, Lieut. Coi., Comdg. U. S. Forces, Eastern Shore of Virginia. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. 7. Fort Fisher, N. C., January 18, 1865. I. Brig. Gen. Charles J. Paine, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the forces occupying the line of works facing Wilmington. * * -- * * - * * VI. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. Ames, commanding Second Division, will send the Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers at sunrise to-morrow to Fort Buchanan, relieving the Twenty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops. Brevet Brigadier-General Blackman, Twenty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops, will, upon the arrival of the Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers at Fort Buchanan, report with his command to Brig. Gen. Charles J. Paine, commanding Third Division, Twenty-fifth Army Corps. * - * * * * Page 175 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175 [III. Bvt. Brig. Gen. J. C. Abbott, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, will detail three commis sioned officers, one of whom shall be a captain, for the purpose of taking charge of a detail to proceed to Point Lookout, Md., in charge of pris- oners of war. These officers will report to Major Pearce, provost-mar- shal at these headquarters, for instruction~ immediately. IX. Capt. 0. W. Beach, Sixteenth New York Artillery, will proceed [with] his command and the prisoners of war under his charge, on the steamer De Molay, to Point Lookout, Md., and deliver his prisoners to the commanding officer of the camp of prisoners at that place, taking his ieceipt therefor. He will then return with his commaiid to Fort Monroe, Va., and report to the quartermaster for transportation to this point. By order of Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and As8istant Adjutant- General. PARKERSBTJRG, VA., January 18, 1865. Hon. C. A. DANA, As8istant Secretary of War: Orders issued in compliance with yonr telegram of the 17th instant. P. II. SHERIDAN, ]Iiliajor. General. FAIRFAX COuRT.HousE, January 18, 18656 p. m. (Received 6.15 p. in.) Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR: Reports from the several stations state all quiet. Colonel Albright verbally reported to me an hour ago that he is informed that the train guard that was fired into two days ago acted cowardly and disgrace- fully, Lieutenant Cash, the officer in charge, setting the example. I have called for a report of the facts in the case, which will be furnished to me to-morrow, and will be forwarded to department headquarters. 1 respectfully request that the train guards be hereafter composed of good fighting men, with plenty of ammunition. W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding. CHARLESTON, W. VA., January 18, 1865. Capt. J. WHITLEY, Loup Creek: The colonel wants to know at once if you have scouts out; how far they are ordered to go; how~ you obtained information that there are two rebel infantry regiments at Lewisburg; and whether you have any information as to the inovenients of the enemy in your front. J. M. RIFE, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 176 176 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIIL Lou~ CREEK, January 18, 1865. Capt. J. M. RIFE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Charleston: I have scouts in the direction of Raleigh. I have sent scouts toward Lewisburg, with orders to go there if they catinot get positive informa- tion without as to the number and what forces there are in that place. A citizen living on the Lewisburg road came to Gauley and reported what I telegraphed you in regard to those infantry regiments. Scouts that have come in report that there were a small rebel scout on Sugar Creek. This is all the force they could learn of being in our immedi- ate front. I sent a scout to communicate with Captain Mann. They found that he was away on a scout in the direction of Lewisburg. Word was left at his camp to send any information of importance he might have to this place. Deserters report that Alsteads command was ordered to IRichmnond, but they refused to go. They are now at Meadow Bluff. Any further information I may receive [will commu- nicate immediately. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, Commanding Post. BALTIMORE, MD., January 18, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Parkersburg, Va.: Did you order the destruction of the stables at Monocacy l Men are there tearing them down, they say, by order of General Forsyth, with instructions to remove them to Frederick. They are needed, and were built for our cavalry and artillery horses. I have ordered the destruc- tion stopped until I hear from you. LEW. WALLACE. Major- General of Volunteers. CITY POINT, VA., January 18, 1865. Brig. Gen. R. 0. TYLER, Philadelphia: Beport to Major-General Cadwalader for duty. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 19, 18651 p. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Washington, D. C.: Colonel Comstock, in a dispatch of the 17th from Fort Fisher, says: The enemy have this morning been blowing up works near Fort Caswell, and it is not improbable that when the navy get down they will find it evacuated. They are moving cautiously. Our prisoners are 1,900; guns, injured and all, re- ported 72. U. S. GRANT, Li~mi~t~amt- General Page 177 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 177 CITY POINT, VA., January 19, 18659.30 a. rn. (Received 2.40 p. ni.) lion. G. V. Fox, Assistant #S~eeretary of the Navy: It will be impossible for Mr. Blair to go through directly to Richmond by water. When he arrives, however, he will be sent through as com- fortably and as expeditiously as possible. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 19, 18655 p. m. Hon. G. V. Fox, - Assisfrpnt Secretary of the Navy: The flag-of-truce steamer is now in James River. If Mr. Blair arrives during its stay I can send him through to Richmond promptly and comfortably. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washing ton, D. C., January 19, 18657.30 p. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: He will leave at 11 a. m. to-morrow, and ought to reach you Sunday p. m. early. Please detain the boat. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary. CITY POINT, VA., January 19, 1865. Major-General MEADE: At your request the order relieving General Seymour from duty will be revoked. You may deliver to him, however, the order relieving him if it has not already been sent him. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 19, 186511 a. rn. Brigadier-General RAwLINs, Chief of Stafl: General Seymours order was delivered to him last night and all ~)ublicity given to the fact of its issue. I cannot but feel gratified at its proposed revocation at my request. If I had not been convinced there was no intention on General Seymours part to do wrong, I would utever have interposed. His letter was wrong, and will be misconstrued. He admits this, but disclaims any design to give such construction. He has already been severely punished, and the publicity given to his order will have a salutary effect on the army. GEG. G. MEADE. 12 H HVOL xLYI, PT I Page 178 178 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIIL WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, January 19, 1865. QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL U. S. ARMY: SIR: The Secretary of War directs that the supplies which were drawn from the depot at Fort Monroe for the U. S. troops in the State of North Carolina, prior to the annexation of that State to the Depart- ment of the South by General Orders, No. 7, shall coiitinue to be drawn as heretofore. You will please give such instructions relative to requisitions and papers to be furnished the department commanders concerned as may be necessary for the proper administration of the affairs of your department in the new arrangement. I am, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Copies to Commissary-General of Subsistence U. S. Army, Chief of Ordnance U. S. Army, Surgeon-General U. S. Army, Chief of Engineers U. S. Army, Chief Signal Officer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.) WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, January 19, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM HOFFMAN, Commissary- General of Prisoners, & c.: SIR: The Secretary of War directs that you repair without delay to Fort Monroe, to receive and provide for the prisoners of war taken at Fort Fisher, N. C. The Secretary gave verbal instructions that the enlisted men be sent to Point Lookout and the commissioned officers to this city. I am, & c., E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 29. 5 * * Washington, January 19, 1865. * * * * * 20. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. Webb, U. S. Volunteers, is, by direction of the President, hereby assigned to duty according to his brevet raiik. He will report in person to Major-General Meade, commanding Army of the Potomac, for assignment to duty. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 14. 5 City Point, Va., January 19, 1865. * * * * * * * II. Paragraph I of Special Orders, No. 13, of date January 18, 1865, from these headquarters, relieving Brig. Gen. T. Seymour, U. S. Vol- unteers, from duty in the Army of the Potomac, is hereby revoked. By command of Licutenan t-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 179 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 179 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 18. January 19, 1865. * * * * * * 4. Brig. Gen. H. W. Benham, volunteer service, will proceed to New York City to carry out the special instructions relating to his depart- inent of this date. He will return to his command before the 15th proximo. * * * * * * * By comluand of Major-General Meade: - F. ~. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 19, 186510.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Twenty deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIRST DIv., SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 19. January 19, 1865. 1. Byt. Brig. Gen. H. J. Madill5 U. S. Volunteers, having reported at these headquarters in accordance with paragraph 42 of Special Orders, No. 17, War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, dated January 11, 1865, is hereby assigned to the command of the Third Bri- gade of this division. * * * * * * * By order of Brevet Brigadier-G~neral Macy: RICHD. A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 19, 1865. (Received 9.51 a. in.) Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 16. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, January 19, 1865. 1. Brig. Gen. T. Seymour, U. S. Volunteers, having been relieved from duty with the Army, of the Potomac by Special Orders, No. 13, paragraph I, headquarters Armies of the United States, January 18, 1865, the senior officer present for duty in the Third Division will at once assume temporary command of that division. * * * * * * * By command of Brevet Major-General Getty: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 180 180 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIlI. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 19, 1865. (Received 11.35 a. un.) General WEBB, Chief of Staff: Nothing new on our front. Three deserters from Thirty-fourth Vir- ginia came into our lines during the night. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 19, 1865. Maj. Gen. JOHN G. PARKE, Commanding Ninth Army Corps: GENERAL: I would respectfully call to your notice, for such action as you may deem best, the merits of Col. Byron M. Cutcheon, Twenty- seventh Michigan Volunteers. He has been almost constantly in the field since October, 1862; distinguished himself as major of the Twen- tieth Michigan Volunteers in Kentucky, 011 the Cumberland River, and in East Tennessee, in 1863; and, as lieutenant-colonel commanding that regiment, behaved with conspicuous gallantry at the Wilderiiess and Spotsylvania, where he was wounded. He has commanded the Second Brigade of this division in the more recent operations, arid has brought that brigade up to the highest efficiency. Other officers are expected to join of senior rank but far inferior in merit to Cutcheon, and I do ijot think it would be for the interest of the service to have this gallant brigade change hands. You will remember that he has been brevetted colonel and recommended for brevet as brigadier-general. I beg leave to recommend that he be either appointed or brevetted briga- dier-general of volunteers. - I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient seryant, 0. B. WILLOOX, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 19, 18653 p. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: A deserter has just come into our lines. He left his regiment at 9 a. un. to-day, and states that it was reported that Wilmington has fallen with $33,000,000 worth of cotton; that the rebels had fired it on leaving, but our men had arrived in time to extiugnish the flames. E. 0. C. ORD, Major. General, Commanding. [Thdorsernent.] CITY POINT, VA., January 19, 18653.30 p. m. Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR: I send you the above information for what it is worth. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 181 CHAP. LVIII.] CORI~ESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 181 PRIYATE.I HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VA. A~n N. C ARMY OF THE JAADS, In the Field, Va., January 19, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: GENERAL: I propose, after thinking the matter over about the huge illicit trade reported, to order a military commission, with power to call for papers and persons; have them, after investigating thoroughly, try and sentence parties they may deem guilty. General Gordon, shrewd and; fond of such hunting, and Colonel Potter, of the Twelfth New Hampshire, and Major Read, assistant adjutant general, late of Brooks staff, I propose as members. I think this report of $100,000 a day food & c., sent to rebels is a sword with two edges, and if not guar(led against may be used by politicians. Butler is not the only one aimed at by it. Hence I propose taking the bull by the horns. If we can fasten the matter upon either Treasury or Benjamin F.s agents, clap them in the guard house, and the politicians will find they have started the wrong rabbit, with a bushy tail; and as soon as some Treasury scamp is in the guard house or prison they will have to let him out. I write to you in regard to this matter rather than telegraph, for all our telegrams are visPed at Washington. What do you think of my proposition ~ I am not afraid to try it, and think the commission will do. If you can suggest a better man than Gordon for the leader, please do so. He was, in conversation with me before the second Wilmington expedition started, very emphatic in his statements of what Curtis told him might and ought to have been done by the first expedition. Very respectfully, E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General, & c. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. 8. Fort Fisher, January 19, 1865. * * * * * * * II. Maj. F. W. Prince, Sixteenth New York Heavy Artillery, is detailed to proceed to Washington, D. C., in charge of the officers cap- tured from the enemy at this point. Upon his arrival at Washington he will report to the provost-marshal of that district, deliver to him the prisoners, taking his receipt therefor, and then return without delay to Fort Monroe with his command, reporting to the quartermaster of that post for transportation to this place. By order of Maj. Gem A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistcnt Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 19, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division, Wheeling, Va.: Scouts in this morning from Woodstock. Nothing new; no changes in rebel pickets. Started party up the Valley last night at 5 p. um. Supplied them with the necessary money. They are to go to the place you mentioned to me before you left here. All quiet here. Nothing new to report. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff Page 182 182 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rdHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Pai~fax Court-House, Va., January 19, 1865. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of & aff, Department of Washington: Captain Lawrence, brigade quartermaster, reports that while his wagon train with hay was returning from about ten miles outside ot this post yesterday, the rear guard of the train was fired into from a skirt of woods by a party of Mosbys men. The rear guard immediately returned the fire with their carbines, when the rebels scampered~ off throngh the woods. To-day the inhabitatits there report that three of the rebels were badly wounded by the carbines of the guardEighth llliuois Cavalry. None of our men or horses hurt. W. GAMBLE, Colouci, Commanding Brigade. BALTIMORE, MD., January 19, 1865. General J. D. STEVENSON: Do you think it desirable or requisite to have a guard on the express train to-night between Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry ~ Do you think the road injured by the parties making the raid last night G? W. P. SMITH. HARPERS FERRY, January 19, 1865. W. P. SMITH, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: I sent to-day a heavy cavalry force to Bunker Hill in pursuit of raiders, to remain to-night on road miear Duffields. I do not think a train guard necessary. The damage done is reported to be light. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, Va., January 19, 1865. Col. M. A. iRENO, Commanding Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalr4: CoLoNEL: A party of rebel guerrillas, dressed in our uniform, took up a rail last night on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad about one mile and a half east of Duffields, throwing a freight train off the track, which they attempted to burn. It is supposed they came in by way of Bunker Hill and Smithfield and retired by same route. I wish you during the day to send out a scout of 100 men, under a good officer, to Smithfield, and scout down through timber from there to Baltimore amid Ohio Railroad, down to Browns Cross-Roads and Duffields, staying in that vicinity and learning all they can of the party, where it caine from, and in what direc- tion they retired. I think the scoilt had better remain near Duffields to-night, unless they get positive information that they have left the country. I think you had better establish a system of patrolling from your camp to Baltimore and Ohio Railroad as far up as Kearneysville Page 183 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 183 striking road at different points. It is iluportailt, if possible, to clear out one of these parties of raiders, which would perhaps cure the evil. Let officer make written report on his return. Very respectfully, JOHN ft STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 19, 1865. Maj. Gen. L. WALLACE, Baltimore, ]Jilid.: Please report by return mail the strongest regular regiment now in your department that can be spared by you. It is presumed that you can conveniently spare one, as the Eleventh Indiana Volunteers has been retained in your department. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Military Secretary. CAMDEN STATION, January 19, 1865. (Received 2.27 p. in.) General D. C. MCCALLUM: It will take some 400 troop-cars for matter I discussed with you last week, first of which will be wanted at Parkersburg about Sunday or Monday next. It will seriously derange our equipment and embarrass in every way to fit that many of our cars. Can you not lend us 100 of yonr troop-cars for the one trip ~ We will return them promptly and in good order at Washington, their destination. Please advise us promptly. W. P. SMITH. CITY POINT, VA., January 20, 186510.30 a. m. (Received 11 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I will leave for Washington at 12 m. to-day. Will yogi please order Sheridan up to the city to meet me there to-morrow ~ U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORT MONROE, VA., January 20, 18656 p. m. (Received 0.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Please have the quartermaster notified to have a car at Annapolis for me at 7 oclock in the morning to take me to Washington. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 20, 1865. (Received 11.10 a. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I notice in the papers a long list of names sent into the Senate for brevet promotions, but dont see that of Lient. Col. M. R. Morgan. I would like, if his name has not gone in, to have it sent in at once. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 184 184 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POiNT, VA., January 20, 186.511 a. rn. Major-General MEADE: I leave at 12 for Washington. Will remain there but a few hours. During my absence be prepared to take the offensive if it should be found that the enemy are drawing off any considerable portion of their troops, an event not impossible, though which is not likely within the limits of my absence. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Same to Major-General Ord.) CITY POINT, VA., January 20, 18654 p. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Washington, D. C.: The following is a copy of a private note received by to-days mail from General Weitzel, inclosing a copy from the papers of your instruc- tions for the first Wilmington expedition of date December 6, 1864. Thinking it might possibly be of service to you while at Washington, I forward it. JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. [Inclosure.] PRIVATE. J CINCINNATI, 01110, January 16, 1865. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: DEAR SIR: I find in th~ morning papers the inclosed.* I ask it as a favor of you to say to Lieutenant-General Grant that I was surprised and astonished when I saw it; that General Butler never showed it to me, or spoke of it to me; and that his instructions to me did not cover the requirements of this document, and that he said to me, when I reported an a~sault impracticable, that he would withdraw. If I had ever seen a copy of the inclosed instructions,* I would have acted accordingly. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 20, 1865. Brevet Major-General PATRICK, Provost-Marshal- General: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 16th instant, requesting that a list may be fur- nished me (you) of regiments in the Army of the Potomac to which uuassigped men of the different States may be assigned, in order that I (you) may be able the more fully to carry out the instructions of the lieutenant-general commanding, and to say, in answer, that the major- general commanding considers that the intention of paragraph I, Not found as an inclosure Page 185 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IYNION. 185 Special Orders, No. 8, was that the assignments referred to should be made from these headquarters on the report of the provost-marshal- general that a certain iiumber of unassigned recruits were in his hands from any or several States, and that without further instructions from the lieutenant-general commanding that course will be adopted, and such reports will be forwarded, on which the requisite orders will be based. It would therefore appear unnecessary to furnish the lists applied for. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. F. BAIRSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ No. 31. * * WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, January 20, 1865. * * * * * 40. The following officers will repair to this city and report in per- son as witnesses to the chairmau of the Committee on the Conduct of the War as soon as the exigencies of the service will permit: Lieut. Gen. U. S. Grant, U. S. Army; Maj. Gen. Godfrey Weitzel, U. S. Vol- unteers; Licut. Col. C. B. Comstock, aide-de-camp. As soon as their services can be dispensed with by the Committee, they will return to their proper stations. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. Statement of the distribution of engineer troops composing Engineer Brigade, Army of the Potomac, and the Defenses of City Point, Va. Number Regiment. of corn- Position. panies. bOth Regiment New York Vobsnteer 11 Headquarters Army of the Potomac. Engineers. Do a ~ Engineer Depot, washington, 1). C. Do ~ Headquarters Engineer Brigade, City Point, Va. 15th Regiment New York Volunteer a 2~ Do. Engineers. Do 1 Guarding pontoon trains belonging to headquar- ters Army of the Potomac. Do 1~ Inc bar go of pontoon bridges at Deep Bottom and neighb orh(JOd. Do I FortFisher, N. C. Do 1 Fort Abbott, Defenses of City Point. Do 1 Fort Craig, Defenses of City Point. Do 1 Fort Graves, Defenses of City Point. Do 1 Fort McKeen, Defenses of City Point. Do 1 Fort Lewis 0. Morris, Defenses of City Point. Do ~ Fort Merriam, Defenses of City Point. Do ~ Fort Gould, Defenses of City Point. 61st Massachusetts Volunteers 7 Old Court-House, Defenses of City Point. 1st Re~iment Maine 5harpshooters - 6 Defenses of City Point. 18th Regiment New Hampshire Volun. 6 Do. teers. Halls Independefit Sharpshooters, 2 Do. Michigan Volunteers. a Regimental headquarters. IIDQRS. DEFENSES OF CITY POINT AND ENGINEER BRIGADE, January 20, 1865 Page 186 186 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CnAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Coups, January 20, 186511 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Two deserters from the enemy came into our lines last night. A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CoRPS, January 20, 1865. (Received 11 a. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. Copies of Lieutenant-General Grants order respecting deserters and the order announcing the fall of Fort Fisher were successfully passed across the lines yesterday. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 20, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Nothing new to report along our lines during the past twenty-four hours. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. WASHINGTON, 1). C., ~January 20, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: The order of the President, conveyed through Lieutenant-Gen- eral Grant, relieving mefroin the commandoftheDepartinentof Virginia and North Carolina was served upon me at 12 noon on the 8th day of January instant, in a sealed envelope, at which hour I gave a written receipt therefor. By the boat at 10 oclock from City Point a written dispatch left headquarters of the lieutenant-general commanding, at City Point, purporting to be signed by one Cadwallader, reporter of the New York Herald, announcing the fact that I had been relieved, stating the comments thereon, and purporting to give the reasons therefor. This dispatch was published in the Herald of the 10th. The order of the Pres- ident was conveyed to General Grant in a cipher dispatch, so that the information could only have been given to the Herald correspondent from the staff of the lieutenant-general, as from him it cannot be supposed that any snch information would be derived. The communication of an order by the staff of a general before its execution is in violation of all regulations and military usage. There has been much complaint durin Page 187 CHAP. LVIII.] CORUESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 187 the war that information of inteiidetl movements has been prematurely conveyed to the enemy. There have been various attempts to fix the responsibility of snch injurions intelligence. It is not just to blame the newspaper man for the use of news which is given to him by officers of the Army. The fault should be corrected at the fountain. It is respect- fully requested that, as in this case the exact facts are ascertainable, due investigation be had and such example made as will put an end to so pernicious a practice. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]Iiliajor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, flnQRs. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CoRPs, No. 114. In the Field, January 20, 1865. Capt. Edward Moale, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, aide-de-carup, is announced acting assistant adjutant-general, during the temporary absence of Maj. Theodore Read, assistant adjutant-general. By command of Maj. Gen. John Gibbon: THEODORE READ, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. [JANUARY 20, 1865.For order convening board to examine into the cause of explosion of magazine at Fort Fisher, see Part I, p. 425.] NEW BERNE, January 20, 1865. Colonel CLAASSEN, Commanding Outposts: Admiral Porter sends me word that New Berne is to be attacked, but does not say when or how. Be on the alert. E. HARLAND, Brigadier- General. MOREHEAD, [January] 20, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICER TWELFTH NEW YORK CAVALRY: You will disembark your command at Newport Barracks and report for duty to Lieutenant-Colonel Splaine, commanding Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry. Also report by letter to these headquarters. By order of Colonel Stewart, jr.: J. W. ATWILL, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 20, 186512 m. (Via Cumberland.) Major-General SHERIDAN: Please come immediately to Washington to meet General Grant. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 188 18~ N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CUMBERLAND, MD., January 20, 18657 p. m. (Received 7.45 p. m~) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of ,Stct if: Dispatch just received. I leave here imniediately, and will be in Washington to-morrow. - P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CAMDEN STATION, Jan aary 20, 1865. (Received 8.10 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: General Sheridan is upon our road coming east, so that he can reach Washington to-morrow. J. W. GARRETT, President. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 18. * * January 20, 1865. * * * * 7. Maj. F. C. Newball, aide-dc-camp and acting assistmt inspector- general, is hereby ordered to proceed to such points on the military railroad from Stephensons Depot to Harpers Ferry and on the Balti- more and Ohio Railroad from Harpers Ferry to Martinsburg as may be necessary for the purpose of investigating the circumstances attending the late raid of the enemy upon the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Major Newhall will also ascertain the strength and disposition of troops along the route from Stephensons Depot to Charlestown. Upon performing this duty he will return to these headquarters without delay and report such information as he may have gained. The quartermas- ters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 20, 1865. Brigadier~General STEVENSON: It is rumored here to-night that there was a train captured on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad night before last. Is it so ~ Have not received any reports. JAS. ~. FORSYTH, Brevet Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, January 20, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: Night before last a party of rebels, strength not known, took up a rail on Baltimore and Ohio Railroad east of Duffields, causing a freigh Page 189 CHAP. LVIII.]. COREESPONDENC E, ETC.UNION. 189 train to be thrown off the track. They immediately left, attempting to fire the train, doing but Iii~tle damage. As soon as the fact was made known I ordered Colonel lieno to send ont scout in pursuit and to make written report of facts. No report yet received. I think the party came from direction of Berrys Ferry, from best information did, and returned the same way. Shall advise you of facts as soon as received. JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE SHENANDOAH, January 20, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding Di8trict of Haryers Ferry: Your dispatch to General Forsyth, informing him of the attempt to capture a train on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, received. In reply I have to say that the position of this army is such that it is desirable to be informed at these headquarters of any attempt to inter- fere with the railroad, as steps may be taken to aid materially in the capture of parties making such attempts. W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- Geuteral, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, January 20, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: Since answering dispatch have received Colonel Renos report. The rebels were a part of Mosbys command, under Captain Richards, about 150 strong. The men crossed the Shenandoah in boats at Kabletown, swimming horses. They left Osborns about 9 oclock at night, passing between Charlestown and llalltown. Struck railroad east of Duffields about a mile and a half. Did no injury to road, but renlove(l rail. The train was scarcely injured. They recrossed the river at Snickers Ferry yesterday. Renos scouts failed to strike them, because informa- tiomi did not reach him in time. I had no report from railroad until about 10 oclock yesterday; otherwise, if prompt information had been given at headquarters, they might have been intercepted. J. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 20, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: The general commanding directs that you telegraph the name of the person or persons responsible for not reporting the raid on the Balti- more and Ohio Railroad. The general wishes to have this information as soon as possible. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff Page 190 190 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYlII. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 20, 1865. Maj. II. C. RIZER, Commanding, Bue/channon: The general commanding directs that Captain Hagans shall send a reconnoitering party of one commissioned officer and twenty men, mounted, with three days rations, toward lluttonsville, going to that place if practicable. The officer in charge will report by telegraph from Beverly any information he may gain as to movements, past or present, of the enemy. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding. BALTIMORE, Mm, January 20, 1865. MajorGeneral SHERIDAN, Wheeling, W. Va.: The stables at Monrovia are now used by the artillery horses, and ought not to be destroyed. The quartermaster who informed you that there was no use for them was mistaken. One of the stables at Monoc- acy was destroyed before it was reported to me. I will take the lum- ber from your men and rebuild at once. Respectfully request that you revoke the order to destroy the stables at Monrovia. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General of Yolunteer3. BALTIMORE, Mm, January 20, 1865. Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, Relay House, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: General Sheridan ordem~s the destruction of the stables at Monocacy stopped: take the lumber and rebuild the one destroyed. 1-le says that he ~rdered those at Monrovia destroyed, but do not permit it until further orders from here, as General Sheridan has been requested to revoke the order. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 21, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: On Maj. Gen. Lewis Wallace leaving the Middle Department on orders given him, please assign Maj. Gen. A. E. Burnside to the tein porary command of that department. ~. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 21, 18657 p. m. Licut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Washington: We have information to-day from Colonel Sharpe that on Tuesday last an order was issued in Richmond that the rebel fleet should go dow Page 191 CRAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 191 the river, either pass or attack our iron-dads, aiid attempt the destruc- tion of City Point. It was known in Richmond that we had two monitors up the river, but it was supposed their vessels would be strong enough for the attempt, it being claimed that now, in the absence of the larger part of our iron fleet, was the opportunity for their own; that upon the return of our iron-dads, theirs would be permanently shut up in the upper part of the James River; and that even if the movement resulted in the loss of their vessels, it could be no worse than what would eventually be the case, and might inflict incalculable dam- age to us. There is no doubt that the order was given on Tuesday, but why it was not carried out was not explained. JNO. A. RAWLLNS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Substance of this was sent to Captain Parker. lie was advised to take the necessary precautionary measures.) Col. E. S. PARKER, WASHINGTON, January 21, 1865. City Point: Please make order in case of Maj. Gen. Lewis Wallace. The papers are on the table. T. S. BOWERS. JANU ~RY 21, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: By the Chickahouminy route we have news from Richmond, through our agent who left there yesterday afternoon. Our friends in Richmond send us word that the late freshet in the James River had so weakened and partially removed the obstructions placed therein that it was con- sidered possible for the rebel gun-boats to pass them. An order was issued on Tuesd~iy last that their fleet should go down the river either pass or attack our iron-dads, and attempt the destruction of City Point. It was known in Richmond that we had two monitors up the river, but it was snpp6sed that their vessels would be numerous or strong enough for the attempt, it being claimed that now, in the absence of the larger part of our iron fleet, was the opportunity for their own; that upon the return of our iron-dads theirs w-ould be permanently shut up in the upper James, and that even if the movement resulted in the loss of their vessels it could be no worse than what would eventually be the case, and might inflict incalculable damage upon us. Our friends say that the order was unquestionably given on Tuesday; why it did not take effect they are unable to say. It was understood in Richmond that on Wednesday evening General Bragg telegraphed that Forts Caswell and Holmes must fall if not soon re-enforced, amid on Thursday morning a brigade was sent south to General Bragg. The brigade was not a large one, and was believed, but without any certainty, to be from Picketts division. It was said they could not afford to weaken their lines by sending any more troops. This, at all events, is the only movement of troops from our front which is known to have taken place in Richmond since the last report. Our news from Richmond is partly verbal, partly written, and partly i Page 192 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. 192 cipher, and the information is also conveyed that on Wednesday General McLaws telegraphed that a fort, which as near as we could make out was spelled Tacia, would fall if not strengthened. We are unable to throw any light upon this subject, except to say that General McLaws is commanding a portion of the troops at Charleston or in front of it. The sul)erintdndent of the Danville railroad told one of our friends in Richmond that the connection with the North Carolina Central was completed; that no trains had passed over it yet, but that some were expected to conic through to-day. It is said that the cabinet has been changed, with the exception of the postmaster-general and the secretary of the treasury, General Breckinridge taking the portfolio of war. Gen- eral Lee has been appointed to the cominan der-in-chief of all the armies. General Joseph E. Johnston is to command the Army of Northern Virginia, General Beauregard is to relieve Hood, and General Echols, lately with Breckinridge in Western Virginia, is to have Beauregards coniinand, whether in this ari~y or below is not stated. There are riunors of more machinery being sent to Salisbury, N. C., but no facts are given. Gold went down yesterday, the 20th instant, from $117 for $1 to $70 for $1, and there was a rumor among the people that gov- eminent had bought in the North $150,000 in gold, and thrown it upon the market to effect the above result. Tjhe following is copied as written: Mr. Joseph Crenshaw left Wilmington in great haste 011 Tuesday, not taking time to pack his clothes. Wilmington was in great excitement and consternation; they were removing money from the banks and people were hnrrying away their valuables. Mr. Crenshaw had l)een sent to Wilmington by the Secretary of War. We hear that General Lee is strengthening his right wing. Yesterday afternoon (the 19th instant) we sent six cannon by the Danville road, two large ones to Wilmington and the rest, it was thought, for Danville. The consolidation bill makes the officers angry and they incite the soldiers to mutiny. About Petersburg an attempt was made a few days since to consolidate a Mississippi and Alabama regiment. Three hundred started for home and were arrested. We have as yet received no provisions by the Danville road. Nothing but meal and fresh pork have come in from the suburbs of Richmond. One of our friends lately arrested on suspicion, founded upon the use of greenbacks, has been released aiid we shall again hear from that source. Word is sent to us that Mr. Royal, living on the banks of the river near Haxalls Landing, who has for a long time been absent in Richmoi~d,is to return to-day or to-morrow home; thatit is understood that he is to offer to take the oath of allegiance, but it is believed by our friends that lie goes for the pnmpose of furnishing infrrmation to the enemy. He is said to be a persoii of some ability, and we are told that lie cannot be trusted by us. GEO. H. SHARPE. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR I)EPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 33. 5 Washington, January 21, 1865. * * * * * 28. Permission to delay in Washington City, ID. C., two days on offi- cial business while en route to his command in the Department of Virginia is hereby granted Brig. Gen. Gilman Marston, U. S. Molun- teems. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 193 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. LYHI.] 193 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Conps, January 21, 186510.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Fourteen deserters from the enemy caine into our lines last night and yesterday. A. A. HIIJMPHREYS, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEAD QUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 21. Before Petersburg, Va., January 21, 1865. * * * * * * * 5. A detachment will be detailed from the Fourth New York Heavy Artillery to serve with the siege battery now being constructed near Fort Welch until such time as they can be relieved by a detachment of artillery to be sent by General Hunt. Major Williams will be charged with the execution of the above instructions, and the men will be under his direction until otherwise ordered for ever.ything excepting the firing of the guns, directions concerning which will be given by the chief of artillery of the corps, Lieutenant.Colonel Hazard. * * * * * * * By order of Major-General Humphreys: SEPT. CARNCIROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 21, 1865. Colonel LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General: A leave of absence for twenty days has been granted Major Gentry. Will you please inform inc whether any brigade commander is absent in the First Division. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 21, 1865. Lieutenant.Colonel BARSTOW, Assistant A~jutant- General, Ilidqrs. Army of the Potomac: The following are the brigade commanders absent from the corps: Brigadier-General Bartlett, since January 3; Brevet Brigadier-General Gwyn, since January 8; Brigadier-General Chamberlain, sick leave, January 13. FliED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General, 13 R HVOL XLYI7 PT I Page 194 194 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ICHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 21, 1865. (Received 10.45 a. in.) Lient. Col. S. F. BARSToW, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has trans- pired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. G-EO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 21, 1865. (Received 11.15 a. in.) General A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Nothing new in oar front. Some deserters caine in last night. They have hot yet been reported to these headquarters. JNO. U. PARKE, Major- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 21, 18G512.30 p. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, Chief of Staff, City Point: The report of the fall of Wilmington and the capture of cotton is repeated to-day by deserters, who say that the news will be in to-days papers. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 21, 1865. Maj. Geii. JOHN GIBBON, Commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina: Deserters from the enemy report Wihliington taken. The efforts of the enemy to burn the cotton failed. This the report in the rebel camp. CHAS. DEVENS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 21, 18655.30 p. m, General FERRERO, Bermuda Defenses: We have reliable information that the rebel iron-dads have orders to move down the river and attack our gun-boats, taking advantage of the late freshet having cleared away all obstructions. Please direct all you Page 195 CHAP. LYHI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195 batteries on the river to keep a sharp lookout for them and to be well prepared. Should the enemy attempt the euterprise he may be expected at any moment. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Fort Magruder, T~a., January 21, 18G5. Maj. Gen. EDWARD 0. C. ORB, (Jomdg. Department of Va. and N C., Fortress Monroe, Va.: GENERAL: In compliance with Special Orders, No. , headquarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, I have the honor to state the location and description of this fort and Redoubts No. ~ and 6, as also the number, kind, and caliber of ordnance and ammnnition. Fort Magruder is situated about one mile and a half froiu the village of Williamsburg, west by south of it, and is oblong in shape, with bas- tiolis on the west, south, and east sides, inclosed on time north, west, south, and part of east side, with abatis, ditch about fifteen feet wide and twelve feet deep, sally-poi t on the north side, with draw-bridge. There are seven magazines, one of them lately built. Thefortis manned by 400 men, and mounts the following guns, for which I subjoin list of ammunition: Two 20-pounder Parrott guns, in flue orderrounds fuse- shell, 251;r9unds spherical-case, 40; rounds case-shot, fixed, 168; rouiids blank cartridges, 287. One 3-inch Parrott gun, in good orderrounds fuse-shell, dO; rounds case-shot,- fixed, 100; rounds blank cartridges, 27. Four 12-poumider brass howitzers, in good orderrounds fuse-shell, 2; rounds spherical-case, 200; rounds shell, fixed, 354; rounds canister, fixed, 200; rounds solid shot, 123. One 8-inch howitzer, in poor con- ditionrounds grape, 9; rounds canister, 4G; roumids shell, strapped, 30; rounds blank cartridges, 184. One 24-pounder howitzer, in l)O~r conditionrounds cammister, fixed,- 30; rounds shell, strapped, ~ rounds case-shot, 48; rounds canister, 69; rounds solid shot, 20; rOnx(15 strapped shot, 40; rounds blank cartridges, 183. Four 42-pounder car- ronades, in poororderrounds caiiister,209; rounds grape, 378; rounds solid shot, 129; rounds shot, fixed and strapped, 50; rounds strapped shell, 101; roumid s blaiik cartridges, 787. Two 12-pounder iron guns, old pattern, in poor conditionrounds canister, 32, rounds canister, fixed, 104: rounds carcasses, 18; rounds spherical-case, 226- rounds shell, fixed, 121; rounds solid shot, fixed, 224; rounds blank cartridges, 30. One 8-inch mortar, no ammnunition. Three Nugents repeating rifles, uselessrounds amumnunition, 2,044. Redoubt No.5 is situated about a quarter of a mile frcmn Fort Magru- der, amid west of it. This redoubt is square, containing about 22,500 square feet, and occupied by 200 men, and surrounded on all sides by a wide ditch and abatis; sally-port on east side, with gates. It mounts two gnus: One 12-pounder iron gun, old pattern, imi poor condition rounds shell, fixed, 144; rounds spherical-ease, 160; rounds shell, fixed, 120; rounds canister, fixed, 87; rounds shot, fixed, 8. One 6-pounder iron gun, old pattern, in poor conditionrounds solid shot, 42; rounds canister, 20; rounds shell, fixed, 12; rounds spherical-case, 43; rounds shot, fixed, 12. Redoubt No. 6 is about one-quarter of a mile from Redoubt No. 5. and half a mile west of Fort Magruder, and is about the same size as No. 5, manned by the same number of men (200), surrounded by a wid Page 196 196 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. ditch and abatis, sally-port on the east side, and mounting three gulls: Two 12-pounder iron guns, old patternrounds solid shot, 171; rounds spherical-case, 144; rounds Canister, 130; rounds shell, fixed, 150. One 6-pounder iron gnu, old patternrounds shot, 50; rounds spherical- case, 28; rounds fuse-shell, 14; rounds canister, 36. There are several other redoubts in the immediate neighborhood of this fort, built by the rebels before their evacuation of this place in May, 1862. There are no gnus in them, nor are they manned. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. J. MOl-IIASON, Colonel Sixteenth New York Volunteer Artillery, Corndg. Post. HEADQUARTERS NAVAL BRIGADE, No~foik, January 21, 1865. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. ORD, Comdg. Dept. of Va. and N. C. and Army of the James: GENERAL: In obedience to your verbal orders, I respectfully report that this command consists of the following boats: (1.) Side-wheel steam-boat Chamberlain (chartered by Government); mounts one 30-pound ci Parrott, two rifted Sawyers, 3.67 caliber, and one 12-pounder howitzer; boat is in line running order; crew, forty men. (2.) Propeller Mosswood, drawing nine feet of water; new aimd excellent boat (chartered by Government); mounts two 30-pounder Parrotts; crew, thirty-four men. At present boat is undergoing re- pairs; will be completed in ten days. (3.) Propeller Jesup; the hull of a gun-boat built by the ladies of Norfolk for the rebels; partially destroyed by rebels witemi Norfolk was evacnated; rebuilt by United States; mounts two 30-pounder Parrott guns; hull amid engine in excel- lent order, but requires n~w boiler; crew, thirty men. (4, 5, 6, 7.) Side- wheel light-draft boatsi3nrnside, Reno, Foster, and Parkebuilt by Norman Wiard, of New York, for this department by order of Major- General Foster, and accepted by Major-General Butler after he had superseded General Foster. These boats are upward of 140 feet in length, draw three and a half feet of water, and are only suitable for river and sound navigation in flue weather. At present the Parke and Foster are oim duty in the Appomattox, the Reno t New Berne, and the Burnside is undergoing extensive repairs in Norfolk. These boats are armed with four gnus each, either Sawyer guns, caliber 3.67, or 12- pounder howitzers. They carry from 100 to 120 men each, well armued with carbines, pistols, and cutlasses. (8.) Propeller Shrapnel; rebuilt in North Carolina; altered from canal-boat; mounts one 24-pounder howitzer and two 12-pounder howitzers; was recently sunk near Coin- jock; was raised; is now umidergoing repairs at Norfolk. (9.) Gun- boat Grenade; same model as Shrapnel; is imow having new boiler put iii at New Berne, N. C.; will have same armament as Shrapnel. (10.) Steam launch; thirty-four feet long; will mount one 12-pounden how- itzer; just completed. Iii addition to these gnu-boats, the comu,and before the first expedi- tion to Wilmington had sixteen launches, the property of the depart- memut, amid twenty-five launches and cutters borrowed by Major-General Butler from the Navy Department in anticipation of the expedition to North Carolina. Quite a number of these boats were lost on the first expedition to Fort Fisher, and the remainder are now with the second expedition. The tramusport steamers Gazelle amid Clinton, belonging t Page 197 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 197 Quartermasters Department, running through the Chesapeake and Albeinarle Canal, are each armed with one 6-pounder howitzer, and have likewise each a detail of one sergeant and ten men belonging to this command. A detailed report of the effective force of the brigade and a similar report of the ordnance and ordnance stores appertaining to the corn- in and will be transmitted at the earliest practicable inonient, orders having been issued to the assistant adjutant-geiieral of the brigade, now at Point of Rocks, to have them prepared immediately. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, )~ HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. 10. Fort Fisher, N. C., January 21, 1865. * * * * * * * II. Bvt. Brig. Gen. 11. L. Abbot, chief of artillery, will immediately take from Fort Fisher the 12-pounder guns now in that work and place them on the line of defenses toward Wilmington in snek position as he may deem best, making a detail from the artillerists of his command to man them. - General Abbot will make requisition on these headquarters for the necessary fatigue parties. By order of Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Fort Fisher, Janaary 21, 1865. General R. DELAFIELD, Chief Engineer: I was at Fort Caswell yesterday, and think that some information in reference to it may be of interest to the Department. The first change in the work made by the rebels appears to be an attempt to make wooden bombproofs for the gnns on the south and southwest faces, the crossed shading indicating the supposed original parapet. The exterior timbers of the case- mate were covered by railroad iron. Subseqnently t h e s e casemates were covered with earth. the parapet beiiig raised ten or twelve feet in height, and probably thick- ened, so as to give eight to twelve feet of earth in front of the railroad iron. At a still later day, apparently, suspecting thepower of resist- ance of these embrasures, the guns were all removed to the covered way, which bad also been raised some eight or ten feet and heavily traversed. These traverses, rising some eight to ten feet above the raised parapet of the covered way, are perfectly bombproofed, the entrance to some being from the ditch. On leaving the work th Page 198 198 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. enemy blew up the magazines in the covered way and blew down the whole length of the scarp of the east face. The block-house was burned, the caponiere not seriously injured. I think the readiest way to make the work efficient would be to remove the ruins of the block-house, repair the scarp, use the main work as a keep, and repair the damage done to the covered way and put its guns in order, completing some traverses not yet finished. As this will require more time and labor than troops in the field could give the repairs should be made under the direction of the Department. Very respectfully, C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel and Brevet Brigadier- General. P. S.On the beach, 1,000 yards west of Fort Caswell, is Fort Campbell, a strong earth-work heavily traversed on the sea-faces, one of which is a bastioned front and holding about thirteen guns. FORT MONROE, January 21, 18651.30 p. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, (Received 2 ~. in.) - Secretary of War, Washington: I came here from Yew Berne in order to consult with General Grant upon matters in North Carolina and in relation to carrying out the views of General Sherman. The matters which 1 desired to lay before the lieutenant-general were, first, the immediate placing of the railroad in order from New Berne to Kinston. I have no rails for this work. I desired also to have a small additional force to enable me to seize and securely hold certain points, and I desired personally to give himmi my views in relation to affairs in North Carolina. As the lieutenant-gen- eral is in Washington I would respectfully beg of you to inquire of him whether he desires to see me and whether I had better xvait here until his return. I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General, Commanding District ~f North Carolina. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washinqton, D. C., January 21, 18657 p. m. Brigadier-General PALMER: General Grant has started this evening on his return. You will wait for him. - EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 21, 1865. (Received 8 p. in.) Brig. Gen. I. N. PALMER, Fort Monroe, Va.: Wait at Fort Monroe until I get there. I will leave Annapolis at 5 a. in. to-morrow. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 199 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 199 TIEADQTJARTERS OUTPOSTS, January 21, 186510.15 a. m. General HARLAND, Commanding: On my direct front I am hardly liable to a surprise, but the railroad to my rear can be, by a small party, so disturbed that communication with New Berne by railroad is cut off. This I have not the force to spare to guard, and respectfully suggest that a cavalry patrol at night be made from Camp Palmer, or that a permanent picket-post be sta tioned at the railroad crossing, at least for a short time. I do not desire, general, to appear suggestive to you, and beg pardon for direct intrn sion. P. J. CLAASSEN, Colonel, Commanding Outposts. WINChESTER, VA., January 21,1865. (Received 6 p. in.) Major-General SHERIDAN: General Crook telegraphs that on account of ice, & c., he will return to Cumberland on the 22d. It has been raining, snowing, and sleet- ing here all day. Quite cold. Scouts did not succeed in getting into Woodstock that night, on account of a party of rebs laying for them at that place. They report that the rebs ave conscripting the people at Woodstock. Major Young starts out with about seventeen scouts and fifty picked men from the Fifth New York Cavalry. I think that he will clear Woodstock. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, January 21, 1865. Maj. Gen. W. S. HANCOCK, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding First Corps, Washington, D. C.: SIR: Your communication of the 3d instant, requesting that Brig. Gen. S. S. Carroll, U. S. Volunteers, be ordered to report to you for assignment to duty in command of the camp of organization of the First Corps, has been received. In reply, I have the honor to state that it has been decided by the Secretary of War that, as General Carroll is now on conit-martial duty, the assignment requested in your communication cannot at present be made. Very respectfully, & c., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 21, 18655 p. in. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff, Department of Washington: Reports just received from the several stations on the line state all quiet since last report. I havejust received reliable secret informatio Page 200 200 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. from outside that guerrilla bands intend to make a strong effort to cap- ture the public animals at Burkes Station and vicinity. I notified Colonel Aibright to strengthen his guards there, especially at night, and be ready to meet them. W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. BALTIMORE, Mm, January 21, 1865. Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, Commanding First Separate B1 igade: General Sheridan says if the stables at Monrovia are needed he does not wish theni torn down. You will, therefore, not permit them to be torn down. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. B. ROSS, Major and Aide-de-Camp. U. S. MONITOR ONONDAGA, Aikens Landing, James River, Va., January 22, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. A. RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 21st instant, conveying the information that an order was issued on Tuesday last that the rebel fleet should come down the river, either pass or attack the monitors, and attempt the destruction of City Point. I thank you very much for this information, and I shall exercise more than nsual vigilance to defeat any plait the rebels may have iu contemplation on the river. In this connectiou I would beg leave to suggest that the tlag-oftrnce boat be not allowed to come above the pontoon bridge to land prisoners, as I consider it highly objectionable for the rebels to have a close view of our monitors or our method of drill or exercise. iDeep Bottom is a convenient place to land prisoners for exchange. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. A. PARKER, Commander, Comdg. Fifth Division, North Atlantic Squadron. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRps, January 22, 186510.25 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMs, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Six deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General Page 201 CBAP. LYIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 201 SPECIAL ORDERS, TIDQR S. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 16. 5 City Point, Va., January 22, 1865. * * * * * * * II. Maj. Gen. Lew. Wallace, U. S. Volunteers, will proceed, via the Rio Grande, to Western Texas, and inspect the condition of military affairs ill that vicinity and on the Rio Graude. Military authorities will afford him every means in their power to facilitate him in. the execution of this order. By command of Lietitenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 22, 1865. Byt. Maj. JOHN N. CRAIG, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Artillery Headquarters, Army of the Potomac: MAJOR: I have the honor to repoi~t that the batteries of this command occupy the following positions on this date, viz.: Position. Fort Fisher Fort welch Fort Gregg Fort Sampson - -- In reserve Fort Cummings - Fort Siebert Fort Emery in reserve Fort Clarke In reserve Train guards - - -. Ninth Corps line. Battery. C and I, 5th U. S. Artillery.... 11th New York Battery M, 1st New Hampshire Artil- lery. B, 1st New Jersey Artillery.. do K, 4th U. S. Artillery 10th Massachusetts liattery do do 12th New York Battery B, 1st Rhode Island Artillery L, 4th New York Artillery.... Guns. Commanding officer. Four light 12.pounders. First Licut. E. P. Clark. First Lient. Six 3-inch -. J. T. wyatt. Four 3 inch Capt. G. K. Dakin. Four light 12.pounders - Two light 12-pounders. Fourlight 12 pounders. Two 3.inch do Four light 12-pouuders. Six light 12-pounders.. Capt. A. J. Clark. Do. First Licut. E. S. Smith. Brevet Major Sleeper. Do. i)o. First Lieut. W. 5. Bull. Brevet Major Brown. Second Lieut. Frank Sey. G, 1st New York Artillery.... Six light 12-pounders.. FirstLieut.W.H.Striuger. F, 1st Pennsylvania Artiflery Six 3-such FirstLieut. 1 .F.Campbell. 3d New Jersey Battery Six light 12.ponn.ders.. Brevet Major woerner. 6th Maine Battery do Capt. w. H. Ro~ers. C, 4th New YorkArtillery ... Six Coehorn mortars.. First Licut. H. Kennedy. Lient. Anthony G. Graves, detailed as ambulan ce officer, Special Orders, No. 18, Second Army Corps, January 18, 1865; Lient. E. C. Stahl, relieved as ambulance officer, Special Orders, No. 18, Second Army Corps, Jalluary 18,1865; Lient. Henry Wireman, Battery F, First Pennsylvania Artillery, on leave of absence per Special Orders, No. 16, Army of the Potomac, January 17, 1865; Richard Kennedy, in coin- mand of Battery C, Fourth New York Artillery; Capt. J. H. Wood, C, Fourth New York Artillery, mustered out by expiration of term ot service; Lient. D. P. McPherson, Company C, Fourth New York Artil- lery, mustered out by expiration of term of service; Capt. S. A. McClel- lan, still absent on leave~ Ben mustered in B, First jamin Galbraith and Leander McChesney, New Jersey Artillery, as second lieutenants, Jan nary 17, 1865. Respectfully submitted. JNO. G. HAZARD, Brevet Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Page 202 202 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 22, 1864. (Received 11.05 a. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W GETTY, Breret Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 22, 1865. (Received 11.10 a. in.) General WEBB: Nothing new on our front. Ten deserters were forwarded yesterday. About the same number are reported this morning. Will let you know the number on their arrival. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 22, 1865. (Received 1.05 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Eleven deserters have been reportedfour from Twenty-sixth South Carolina, two from Eighteenth South Carolina, one from Forty-sixth Vir~iiiia, one from Fifty-ninth Alabama, one from Forty-ninth North Carolina, one from Forty-third Alabama, one from Fifty-ninth Virginia. All belong to l3ushrod Johnsons division. They have no news. JNO. G. PARKE~ Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 22, 186511.05 a. m. Major-General ORD, Fort Monroe: General Bragg telegraphs that unless Forts Caswell and 1-Joirnes are re-enforced they will hill. Lee is made generalissimo, Johnston takes Army of Virginia, Beauregard relieves Hood, Breckinridge takes port- ftdio of war. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Forwarded to Secretary of War.) SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. 11. Fort Fisher, N. C., January 22, 1865. I. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Abbot, commanding Siege Artillery, will select one company from the artillerists under his command to remain at this point with that portion of the siege train that has been landed Page 203 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, h~TC.UNION. 203 General Abbot will, after disembarking this company, inunediately proceed to City Point, Va., with the remainder of his command and report to the lieutenant-general commanding the Armies of the lJnited States. IJ. The commandant of Fort Fisher will permit Capt. B. ID. T. Gor- don, assistant quartermaster, to take such quarterniaster~s stores as he may select from the fort. HI. Lient. F. A. Howell, acting aide-de-camp, Third Brigade, Third Division, Twenty-fifth Army Corps, will proceed to Fort Fisher with the fatigue party under his command and take therefrom 100 shovels for use on the north line of works. IV. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Abbot, U. S. Volunteers, is relieved from duty as chief of artillery of this expedition, and will proceed to City Point, Va., and report to the lieutenant-general commanding the Armies of the United States. The major-general commanding desires to express to General Abbot his thanks for the zeal, ability, and energy evinced by him in landing the siege train of this command upon the open ocean beach under the most disadvantageous circumstances. V. Maj. F. W. Prince, Sixteenth New York Heavy Artillery, will proceed by the steamer Chase with the captured officers under his charge to Fort Monroe, and endeavor to intercept the steamer Califor- nia, driven from that port by the gale yesterday. On overtaking that ship he willtake commaiid of the detachment of the Third New Hamp- shire Volunteers in charge of the prisoners of war on board the Cali- fornia, and proceed with them to Washington, as previously ordered. In case of not finding the California at Fort Moiiroe, Major Prince will proceed to Washington without delay and deliver the prisoners in his charge to the provost-marshal at that city, taking command of the detachment mentioned above wherever he may find it. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant General. HEADQUARTERS FiRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Pai~fax Court-House, Va., January 22, 18656 .30 p. rn. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of & aff, Department of Washington: Reports just received from the several posts on the line stating all quiet since last report. Colonel Albriglit was ordered on the 18th to send the four detailed men to General Slough as court-martial clerks. Colonel Albright now reports that two of the mneii were sent yesterday, and the other two will be sent to-morrow. W. GAMBLE, Colon~i, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Cumberland, January 22, 1865. The Twenty-thud Army Corps will pass through from Parkersburg to Washington, commencing within a (lay or two. You will have -arrangements made to give them hot coffee at two or three h)Oints Page 204 204 N. AND SE. VA., 4. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Close all the liquor shops within your command and place buards to prevent straggling and desertion. They will pass through at the rate of 5,000 for each day, and will be about four days in passing I will give you any further instructions of thuir coming that I obtain. Please acknowledge receipt. By command of Major-General Crook: HOBT. P. KENNEI)Y, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., January 22, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Cumberland, Md.: Ample supplies of coffee will be prepared for passing troops at Mar- tin sburg and Sandy hook, at the depots, ready for issue on arrival of the trains. Your orders in regard to liquor shops can be easily executed, as there is but one, I believe, on the hue of the road in my district. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. CUMBERLAND, January 22, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: The first of the Twenty-third Corps will pass through Harpers Ferry to-morrow, 23d instant. ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Major amd Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, January 22, 1865. Brigadier-General SEWARD, ]Vliartinsburg: I am instructed by the major-general commanding to inforni you that there will be large movement of troops from the West over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, commencing to-morrow, averaging about 4,000 per day. You will direct your commissary to cause to be prepared to supply the troops upon their arrival at Martinsburg with an ample supply of hot coffee at the depot as the trains arrive. Similar preparations will be made at Sandy Hook to supply those who are not furnished at Martinsburg. The first body of troops will arrive to-morrow, so that your preparations will have to be made early in the morning. The general also directs that during the move- ment all liquor shops be closed. JOIIN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTIN5BURG~ VA., January 22, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: All arrangements have been made to feed the troops and prevent straggling. W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General Page 205 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 205 BUCKHANNON, W. VA., January 22, 1865. Col. N. WILKINSON, Clarks burg: Scout just returned from iluttonsyille. Saw a deserter and two refugees who saw Rossers command at Warm Springs on their way to lijebmond, the olily rebel force they could hear of II. C. RIZER, Major. CITY POINT, VA., January 22, 18656.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. LEW. WALLACE, Baltimore, Md.: Send the Eleventh U. S. Infantry to City Point. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. IIAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., January 22, 1865. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore, Md.: There is no Camp Distribution at this post, it having been broken up by order of-Major-General Sheridan, having no quarters or buildings at this place in which the men can be cared for; consequently there is no officer to receive Nqnads of men sen t forward to General Sheridans army. They are directed by General Sheridan to be forwarded to the front upon their arrival. There is considerable delay and annoyance to the officers in charge arising from the sending forward of infantry, cavalry, and artillery mixed np. Cavalry should be separated from the infantry and artillery and sent no farther than Sandy Hook, near which point is the Remount Camp, to which all cavalry have to be turned over on their arrival at this post. General Sheridans orders are to forward all infantry right through to the front, so that there is no need for any officer here to receipt for men, unless they belong to this command, which is always done. If I had an officer to place upon such duty I should do so,in order to relieve the officers who bring for- ward men, because they are generally worn out by fatigue on their arrival; but having no such officer it is not possible to do so. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. CITY POINT, V A., January 23, 186510 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: One of my staff has just returned from Fort Fisher with dispatches from C eneral Terry, from which I extract the following: On the 16th the enemy blew lip Forts Caswell and Campbell. and abandoned them and the work on Smiths Island, those at Smith vile, and on Reeves Point. These l)laccs were occupied by the navy. The whole number of gnns captured amounts to - 162. A large number of small-arms also fell into our hands, besides quantities of ordnance and commissary stores. Our casualties prove smaller than was first re- porte(l; they foot up thus: 12 officers and 107 men killed, 45 officers and 495 men woande~. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 206 206 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYILI CITY POINT, VA., January 23, 1865. Hon. HENRY WILSON, Chairman Committee on illiilitary Affairs I see that Generals Thomas and Sheridan have been confirmed as inajor.generals in the Regular Army, whilst no mention is made of Gen- eral Meades confirmation to the same rank. From this I infer objec- tions have been raised. This I regret. General Meade was appointed at my solicitation, after a campaign the most protracted and covering more severely contested battles than any of which we have an account in history. I have beemi with General Meade during the whole cani- paign, and not only made the recommendation upon a conviction that this recognition of his services was fully won, but that he was eminently qualified for the command such rank would entitle him to. I know General Meade well. What the objections to his confirmation are I do not know; did I know I would address myself directly to these objections. Hoping that your honorable body consider this case favorably, I subscribe myself, with great respect, U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 23, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Saturdays Richmond Exanminer states positively that Mr. Seddon, Secretary of War, has resigned, and if any nomimmation has been made of his successor it has not yet been acted on. There is nothing at the War Department of Shernians movements later than already reported. General Hardee telegraphed Thursday to the Department that there was nothing of interest to communicate. JNO. A. RAWLIKS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 23, 186511.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. JOHN A. RAWLINS: What news of tIme lieutenant-general~ I did not expect wheti he left that he could get back in forty-eight hours, but I should like to know when his return is anticipated. GEO. G. MEADE, ililiajor- General. CITY POINT, January 23, 1865. Major-General MEADE: General Grant has arrived. JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Star Page 207 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 23, 186510.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have notified Colonel Duane to have ready 500 feet of bridging, with wagons and mules, subject to your orders. Will you require aiiy engiiieer troops to accompany the train~ If so, how many cornpanies~ II should think two would be ample. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 23, 186511.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. D. II. RUCKER, Chief Quartermaster: The steamer Saint Cloud left yesterday; will be ordered from Fort Monroe to Washington. The steamers Alliance, City of Bath, Vidette, Detroit, and Tillie will be discharged during the next twenty-four hours and ordered to Washington. There are no others in this river. The medical department has no sea-going boats in the river at all. The hospital department of the Army of the Potomac has only the State of Maine, now present; that of the Army of tue James has the George Washington, Hero of Jersey, and the Thomas Powell. I cami use any of these boats when an emergency demands, but they are not sea-going boats. It is 10 a. in., and no sign yet at Fort Monroe of either the Washington or Baltimore mail-boats of the day before. Please have the Potomac carefully watched. It is reported that the Express is sunk forty miles below Washington. H. INGALLS, Brigadier- General. CITY POINT, January 23, 18654 p. m. Maj. Gen. M. C. MEIGS, (Received 4.45 ~. ni.) Qnartermaster- GLueral: We are nearly out of coal; there is hardly any at Fort Monroe for our use. I beg you will order the quantity estimated for by the chief quartermaster at the depot on the 18th instant. Shipments should be made immediately. We should not be out of coal at this season. R. INGALLS, Brigadier- General and Quartermaster. SPECIAL ORDERS, ?~ IIDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 17. City Point, Va., January 23, 1865. * * * * * * II. Maj. Gen. John Gibbon, commanding Army of the James, will immediately forward to Major-General Terry, at Fort Fishier, fifty six- mule teaius, and the caissons, wagons, and horses of Battery E, Third U. S. Artillery, and the Sixteenth New York Independent Battery, now here, and one company of cavalry, numbering at least fifty men, for duty as orderlies and couriers. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 208 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. 208 GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 3. January 23, 1865. It having beeii reported to the major-general commanding that the colors of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers, recently lost in battle, were lost under circumstances that reflect ito dishonor, the right to carry other colors, of which this regiment was deprived by General Orders, No. 37, of September 23, 1864, from these headquarters, is hereby restored. By command of Major-General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 23, 186510.25 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Six deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, JanL~ary 23, 18659.15 p. m. Major-General WEBB, OMef of StatJ: Can you tell what the artillery firing is about ~ A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 23, 18659.43 p. rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: They are repeating the attempt to drive in General Gibbons pickets and the batteries have become engaged. They tried this last night. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 23, 1865. (Received 10.25 a. in.) Licut. Col. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the last twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, 13,-c ect Major- General, Commanding Page 209 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 209 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 23, 1865. (Received 11.30 a. in.) Byt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: No changes observed ou our front. About 9 or 9.30 p. in. sharp picket-firing, with some cannonading, Was heard directly north of these headquarters. It must have been on the other side of Appomattox. General Willeox reports at that time no firing on his front. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Coups, January 23, 1865. (Received 9 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: The firing is almost due north of us. By the interval between the flash and report, I make it about twelve miles distant. I suppose at or near Dutch Gap. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 23, 18655.40 r. rn. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, City Point: The right of General Ferreros picket-line, which rests on the James just below the Howlett House Battery, was attacked last night. The attack was repulsed. A deserter r~ported to General Ferrero that the object was to ascertain if the obstructions in the river had been carried away. Small boats were in readiness to co-operate in case the attack succeeded. The attempt was to have been made on Saturday night, but the small boats were not ready. Eight guns and ten hats were picked up this ~norning at the point where the attack was made. Every precantion has been taken to prevent a surprise. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 23, 186510 p. m. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, City Point: Gemmeral Kautz sends in a deserter from the Hampton Legion, Garys brigade, who says the brigade moved at 11 oclock to-day with three days rations. He does not know where they went. I will ascertain shortly the meaning of the firing on the river. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. 14 R RYOL XLVI, PT I Page 210 210 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. Lviii. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 23, 186511 p. in. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, City Point: The firing to-night is trom Fort Brady, trying to hit three gun-beats, reported by our pickets as having made their appearance in the bend of the river above. It is a waste of ammunition, and I do not place much reliance on the report. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, City Point, January 23, 1865. Commander WILLIAM A. PARKER, Commanding Fifth Division, North Atlantic Squadron: Please inform me what is the condition of the river obstructions above you. Do you consider your naval force sufficient to prevent the possi- bility of the enemys gun-boats coining down should they make the attempt dnring high water ~ If anything is to be done in the way of placing obstructions I will give you any assistance required. Please let me know at once, as the steps, if required, should be taken at once. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. U. S. MONITOR ONONDAGA, Aikens Landing, January 23, 1865. Maj. Gen. JOHN GIBBON, Commanding, City Point: The condition of the river obstructions above ns is bad; they were washed away by the freshet. I do not consider our naval forces suffi- cient to prevent the possibility of the enemys gun-boats coming down shonld they make the attempt during high water. I believe it to be impossible to replace the obstructions nuless ilowletts Battery be first captnred. WM. A. PARKER, Commander, Commanding Fifth Divtston. U. S. MONITOR ONONDAGA, Ailcens Landing, James River, January 23, 1865. Maj. Gen. JOHN GIBBON, Commanding U. S. Volunteers, City Point, Va.: I would respectfully recommend that the batteries commanding Trents Reach and the obstructions should be immediately re-enforced with heavy guns, and that more vessels be sunk in the night near the obstructions; also that some large torpedoes be sunk in the river near them. I have given the orders to Professor Maillefert to sink the tor- pedoes as soon as possible. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. A. PARKER, Gommander, Coindg. Fifth Division, North Atlantic Squadron Page 211 CHAP. LYIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, E~C.UNION. 211 HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 23, 186510.10 p. m. General DEVENS. Twenty-fourth Army Corps: The enemys cavalry ill our front moved to-day with three days rations. This, with other information, indicates some move on the part of the enemy. The commanding general directs that you have your e~mmand, and particularly your picket-line, on the alert to-morrow morning. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Copy to General Heckman, Twenty-fifth Army Corps.) HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Bvt. Brig. Gen. T. M. HARRIS, January 23, 1865. Commanding Independent Division: GENERAL: The cavalry report the enemy moving to our right. Have your brigades in reserve ready to be thrown forward to Camp Holly, Spring Hill, or any portion of the line at the right which may be threat- ened. Send word to your brigade at the front. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES DEVENS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TW~NTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-Gemmeral HARRIS, January 23, 1865. Commanding Independent Division: You will have your troops in line half -an hour earlier than usual to-morrow morning, and will take any other precautionary measures that you may think necessary. By command of Brigadier-General Devens: EDWARD MOALE, Captain, Aide-de-Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. WILLARDS, January 23, 1865. Maj. Gen. G. WEITZEL: MY DEAR WEITZEL :* I am afraid you have been annoyed lest I might possibly think that your advice at Fort Fisher was not such as I ought to have acted upon. Let me assure you that I have never, in any moment. amid the delightful stream of obloquy which is pouring upon mne, doubted the military sagacity of the advice you gave, or the propriety of my action under it. Indeed, my friend, I amn glad I was there to act as a shield to a young officer, in a moment of fearful responsibility, from the consequences of a proper act which might have injured him in his profession, but which cannot harm me who have a different one. The ,jndgmnent of cool reason hereafter will Sonic purely pereoxmal matter omitted Page 212 212 N. AND-SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. applaud it, but hot passion might have harmed you, as it has done me for the hour. Indeed, it was in view of this very event that I went at all. With the invocation of every blessing upon you and yours, I am, your friend, BE~J. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 23, 18656.25 a. rn. General HECKMAN, Twenty-fifth Army Corps: In case firing is heard on the Kingsland road to the right of Fort Brady, send a reserve force to the lines in vicinity. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 23, 18656.30 p. m. General HECKMAN, Twenty-fifth Army Corps: Major-General Gibbon directs that you caution your pickets on your left to observe extra vigilance, and aiiy movement observed in the enemy~s fleet of gun-boats, you so arrange that notice may be sent immediately to Fort Brady. He suggests that you send out two mounted orderlies, who may be ready on the left to carry the informa- tion. JNO. W. TURNER Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, January 23, 186511.05 p. m. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: Reports have just come in from the picket on the river that the enemy seeni to be landing troops on Trents Reach, north bank of the James. I have directed the river batteries to open in that direction. E. FERRERO, Breret Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, AnMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 23, 18656.15 p. m. Major-General FERRERO, Bermuda Defenses: Major-General Gibbon directs that you take due precautions that the enemy do not succeed in another attempt the enterprise they attempted last night. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier~General and Chief of Staff Page 213 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 213 HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 23, 18657.35 p. m. General FERRERO, Bermuda Defenses: It is thought not advisable to get the range of your guns to-morrow, lest the rel)ort of your guns may cause an alarm. Therefore counter- mand the order I gave you this p. m. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, Brigadier-General TURNER, January 23, 186510.30 p. rn. Chief of Staff: Our lines are intact; we have not been driven an inch. I will keep my forces up all night. Very respectfully, E. FERRERO, Brevet Mc~jor- General, Commanding. P. S.Reports from my picket-line state that two gun-boats are visible at the bend of the river under Howletts Battery. E. FERRERO, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 23, 1865. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General: COLONEL: I send a deserter from the Hampton Legion, Garys bri- gade, who reports that the brigade moved to-day at 11 oclock with three days rations. He does not know where it has gone. Very respectfully, & c., AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fortress Monroe, Va., January 23, 1865. Brig. Gen. G. F. SHEPLEY, Commanding District of Eastern Virginia: SIR: The general commanding directs me to say that, after referring the matter of continuation in your district of that part of North Caro- lina north of the Albeinarle Sound and east of the Cliowan River to Lieutenant-General Grant, it is decided that the order assigning the State of North Carolina as part of the Department of the South will be carried out, without exception of any part of the State. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. B. SCOTT, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 214 214 N. AND ~ VA., N. C, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CRAP. LYTIL NORFOLK, VA., January 23, 1865. Colonel MORRISON, Commanding, Port Magruder, Va.: The Purnell Legion is under orders to report to you at once. On their arrival relieve Company II, Twentieth New York Cavalry, an(l order them to report to Brigadier-General Kautz, commanding Cavalry Divis- ion, Army of the James. By order of Brigadier-General Shepley: WICKUAM HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. NORFOLK, VA., January 23, 1865. Lieutenant-Colonel WHITE, Eastville, Va.: Embark the Purnell Legion at once, to report to Colonel Morrison at Fort Magruder. By order of Brigadier-General Shepley: WiCKHAM HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. EASTYILLE, January 23, 1865. Maj.- W. HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General: The cavalry to relieve the Puriiell cavalry has but just arrived, and are now relieving the (lifferent posts occupied by them. There is no transport here. The Purnell cavalry will be ready to leave to-morrow evening or next day morning at furthest. FRANK J. WHITE, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Field report of U. S. Forces at Fort Fisher, Federal Point, N. C., under the command of AIaj. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, January 28, 1865. Infantry. Artillery. Total. Command. a . a a n 0 ~ 0 0 ~ Headquarters Expeditionary Forces, Maj. Gen. A. 14 72 14 72 H. Terry. Second Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, Bvt. 111 2, 623 111 2, 623 Maj. Gen. A Ames. Third Division, Twenty-fifth Army Corps, Brig. 162 3, 529 162 3, 529 Gen. Charles J. Paine. Second Brigade, First I)ivision, Twenty-fourth 45 871 2 61 47 934 Army Corps, Bvt. Brig. Gun. I. C. Abbott. Battalion First Connccti7cut Heavy Artillery, Capt 11 372 11 372 W. G. Pride. Company A, Fiftecuth New York Volunteer agi 2 148 2 148 neers, Licut. K. Samuel OKeefe. Sixteenth New York Light Battery, Capt. It. H 3 42 3 42 Lee. Light Company F, Third U. S. Artillery, Licut J 4 57 4 57 IL Myrick. ___ Total 334 7,245 20 532 354 7,377 ALFRED H. TERRY, Major- General, Commanding Expedition FORT FISHER, N.C., January 23, 1865 Page 215 CHAP. LVIII.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 215 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. 12. Fort Fisher, N. C., January 23, 1865. * * * * * * * III. Col. George S. Dodge, chief quartermaster, will remove from Smithville and the works on the west side of Cape Fear River such Captured stores as are required for the use of this command and bring theni to this point, excepting those needed by the navy. * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Fort Fisher, January 23, 1865. General R. DELAFIELD, Chief Engineer: In front ot the land face of Fort Fisher, at an average distance of 200 yards from the work and 80 feet from each other, was an elaborate system of torpedoes, twenty-four in immber. The plan of Fort Fisher will show their position. There were three kinds : First, 20-inch shells; second, boiler-iron cylinders, 13 inches diameter and 18 inches long; and, third, (~- buoy-shaped vessels, of about the same content as the cylinders and also of sheet iron. The fuse usually had an iron plate, with a wire three feet long to form its ground connection, but in - some cases the wire was fastened to the iron vessel containing the powder, thus using that for a ground plate. The system was connected with the fort by three sets of double wires, each wire apparently iiiteiided to fire five or more torpedoes. A single wire running to a group of torpedoes was branched to each, in the expectation, appar- ently, of having battery power sufficient to fire the whole group, and, in addition some of these gi-oups were connected with each other, thus giving (with sufficient battery power) a choice of positions in the work to fire the group from. The assault was made on the left (proper) ot the face by the army, and the right of the froiit by the navy. Shells had cut the sets of wires leading from both these points, and no tor- pedoes whatever were exploded, we having no masses of men over them. It is possible they could not fire those whose wires were uncut, as the fuse I have examined had its powder caked, but it may have been intended, for slow-match. The method of firing is as follows: The sketch in the margin shows the acorn g of the accompanying sketch and the quill h. The axis of the acorn is hollow, and the quill b g hfits tightlyinto it, and is filled with mealed powder, or perhaps slow~match com- position. The wires w iv leaving the gutta-percha cover- ing w w pass through eye-holes e e in the acorn, by which they are fastened. From the copper lining of the eye- holes e e smaller copper wires a a pass and enter a solid gutta-percha cylinder, s, the wires remaining about one- twentieth of an inch apart. No connection between the wires is perceptible. Where the gutta-percha cylinder containing the wires touches end to end the quill b g h the ends of the wires appear at the end of the cylinder, and it is supposed that here an iniperfect electric connection is made between them by means of a black lead line on the end of the cylinder, joining the ends of the wires, the heat developed in this black lead on the passage of the current firin Page 216 2P3 N~ AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. the powder in the quill, with which the end of th~ cylinder is in close contact. The batteries icr firing were magnetic, a few turns of the crank and with the black lead connection readily firing gunpowder in fine grains. The accidental cutting of foni out of the six wires leading from the work was a piece of good fortune, which probably saved us from severe loss and demoralization. Very respectfully, C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel and Brevet Brigadier- General, Chief Engineer. [Inclosure.] FORT FIShER, January 22, 18G5. Sketch of fuse for land torpedoes used at Fort Fisher.* ii, strip of wood wedged into a by-wedge k, stiff~ning wire, and hold- ing g and h by the twine fastenings m rn, n n; h 15 Quill containing priming; w w, small copper wires insulated by gutta-perch a, pa~sing through fuse (brass) plug a, b e, d, to acorn of wood g, which they enter. To. prevent moisture following wives into torpedo, they pass through a disc o o, and cylinders e e, fitting tightly. These cylinders and disc slip down the wire, the cylinders entering tightly hollow cylinders in d till the disc o o comes against the end of d, and there the ends of cylinders e e rest nicely against shoulders in d. Between the ends of the cylinders and the shoulders cotton yarn, greased, is placed, forming, when compressed, water-tight packing. Compression is obtained by the hollow screwf, which, passing over o o, screws upon d, and forces the cyhi~ders e e home in d, compressing the cotton packing at their ends around the gutta-percha wire; a, screw for entering torpedo; b, its shoulder; e, hexagon for mon key-wrench; d, screw for compressing nut f; o o, e e, compressor for 1)acking; s, gutta-percha cylinder. C. B. COMSTOCK, Lient. Col., Brevet Brigadier- General, and Chief Engineer. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 23, 1865. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding First Army Corps: GENERAL: I am instructed by the major-general commanding to inform you that on January 24, a. in., about 1,200 troops (organized) will be sent to Camp Stoneman to be quartered temporarily, awaiting transportation. He requests that they be furnished such facilities as are necessary by the conunanding officer of that camp. I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. ~Seep. 217 Page 217 1~ (~Y~Y~Y~YMYMTh1MYMYT A 1~hrITMfluI~1ll1IIII\ t 0 / 0 0 ~i2 0 z z z 0 e P ~ Page 218 218 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ICHM. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 23, 1865. Brig. Gem JOHN P. SLOUGH, M ~litary Gorernor of Alexandria: GENERAL: At 4 a. m. January 24 troops will arrive in Washingtoii to the number of 2 ~OO who will be sent immediately on by cars to ,~ , Alexandria, to be quartered at the Soldiers Rest. Be pleased to let a staff officer meet them at the depot. Respectfully, ~. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY i)IVISIoN, Win c/tester, Va., January 23, 1865. Brevet Major-General TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you instruct Colonel Pennington, commanding Third Cavalry Division, to permit citizens who have country produce for sale to pass through your lines to Winchester on the Romney road. The citizens, after reaching Win- chester, can obtain the necessary passes to pass through the lines. All citizens who have passes given by Colonel Edwards to bring in market- ing should be permitted to pass through the lines that their passes may be renewed. The marketing is brought in for the citizens and officers in Winchester, and will not be taken by the Third Cavalry Division. This order is positive, and the marketing will not be taken by the Third Cavalry Division, as they can procure sueb at Winchester. I am, very respectfully, JAS. ~. FORSYTH, Brevet Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18654.30 p. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I respectfully request that the Secretary of the Navy remove Cap- tain Parker, U. S. Navy, from command of the James River Flotilla to-night by telegraph. With three days notice of his danger and a large fleet at his command, when I sent a staff officer to him this morn- ing before daylight, on hearing that the rebel rains were coming dowu the river and that two of them had passed the obstructions, he had but one gun-boat, that a wooden one, and a torpedo-boat above the pon- toon bridge at Aikens Landing. On my arrival here yesterday from Washington I requested him to get to the front every boat he had in the river within reach. This he should have done two days before without notice. The rebels have suffered severely in to-days oper- ations, but with a, nO doubt, gallant set of commanders for the vessels, they have been allowed to contribute but little to this result. One rebel gnu-boat was blown up by a shell from Battery Parsons, one other sunk, and a third disabled: the fourth, the Virginia, was hit a great many times, but I do not know that she was injured. It i Page 219 CHAP. LVIII.l CO1~RESPONDENCE, ETC.ITNION. 219 the judgment of officers who were l)resellt that had the monitor beeii in her place, on learning that the Virginia and Fredericksburg were aground, both vessels would have been destroyed before they could have been got off. As it is, oiily the weaker vessel of the two was disabled. The rebels still have five gun-boats above us. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WiU~ DEPARTMENT, January 2i~ 18659.10 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Admiral Farragut is ordered to City Point, and will start for Annap- olis as soon as an extra traiii can be had. In the meantime Parker has been removed, and Radford ordered to take command of the fleet. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CITY PoINT, January 24, 18659.30 a. m. (Received 11 a. in.) Maj. Gen. H: W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: I shall probably leave here by 12 noon to-morrow for Fort Fisher. All the troops of Schofields command may be forwarded directly to that point. Meaghers command will go in the same way, in the absence of other (lirections. If Schofield reaches Washington ~i1 time I would like to have him accompany me. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant--General. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 24, 186512 m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: If General Schofield does not arrive in time to join you I will send him forward on the first transport. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, January 24, 18651.30 p. rn. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, (Received 2.30 l~ in.) Chief of Staff: About 3 oclock this morning four of the enemys gun-boats came down the river, passing our batteries north of the James River, one or two of them passing below the obstructions. For some reason they returned without passing far below. Two, the Virginia and Fredericksburg, grounded not fimr from the Howlett house and under one of our land batteries. For several hours they were pounded from this battery, but with what effect cannot be known. The I)rewry was blown up by Page 220 220 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. LVIII. shot from Fort Parsons and one other gun-boat disabled. The two boats that were aground are now off, and have passed a short distance up the river. The freshet which we have had in the last few days has displaced a portion of the obstructions in the river tid made the pa~- sage easy. The naval force here is not near adequate to the protection of the river should the enemy attempt to come down. 1 have tele- ~raphed the Secretary of the Navy, however, for more vessels. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POiNT, VA., January 24, 18G58 . m. (Received 10.20 p. in.) Ma]. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Sta~J~: Please ask the chief of ordnance to send a competent ordnance officer to report to General Terry, at least temporarily. There are a great many shells and other stores to pick up, and much of the ordnance that can be dispensed with. Tile variety of ammunition for the guns in the different forts is numerous. The second division of Schofields com- inand embarked; may be sent to Beaufort, N. C. U. S. GRANT, Lienten ant- General. (Copy to Ordnance l)epartrnent.) WASIIINcTON, D. C .,January P4, 18658.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Colonel Wise telegraphs from New York that ocean transports for 16,000 men will be here by the end of this week. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of & aff. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 24, 18659.25 jp. m. JOHN W. GARRETT, Esq., Baltimore: Admiral Farragut is ordered express to City Point by way o~ Annapolis. It is of the utmost importance that he reaches there soon as possible. I have ordered an extra train for him. Please give all necessary orders for safety and avoid detention. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18659.30 a. m. (Received 10.35 a. in.) Hon. G.V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: I would like to leave Fortress Monroe to-morrow evening or next day evening, for Fort Fisher. Cai ~ you not go ~ I would also be pleased to go on a naval vessel, if it is convenient to spare one. Ocean tramis- portation is now all employed carrying troops. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 221 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 221 CITY PoINT, VA., January 24, 18649.35 a. rn. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: The enemys iron-dads came down below the obstructions this morn- ing and returned to the neighborhood of Howletts before daylight. Since their return there has been a heavy explosion about the obstruc- tions. There are three of these iron-dads in view, and I am inclined to believe they will make an effort to get down here to destroy our stores. Will you please order up the gun-boats now about Fort Monroe, with orders that they shall not stop for night or other cause until they i-each the front now occupied by our gnu-boats. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The Ironsides and Atlanta have both started up James River. The former, on a draft of sixteen feet, ought to reach City Point; the latter is less. The Sangus started from Norfolk for this place, but was sent for to-day. I do not understand where our torpedo-boat is. She ought to dispose of all the rams if they come below the obstructions. The Rhode Island, one of the fastest and best ocean steamers, will be at the Roa(ls ready for you Thursday morning. I cannot tell until to-morrow whether I can get off; we are frozen. up here. Will telegraph in the morning. G. V. Fox; Assistant Secretary. Captain Fox is waiting for an answer, so says telegraph operator. E. S. PARKER. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. lion. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: If the weather holds dry I want to go to Fort Fisher as soon as possible, so as to be here whenever the roads admit of troops moving. If it should rain a day or two, would not make any difference. I should particularly like you to go with me, how ever. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WA5HIN~TON, January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRNNT: I will semi an order now removing Commander Parker. The next in rank is, I think, Com~~~an(ler Nichols, a fair officer. If you deem it unad- visable you can withhold the or-Icr. I will go with you Thursday, unless I notify you to the contrary to-morrow. The Secretary of War will send me over to Annapolis in the ~vening. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Page 222 222 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rOHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Hon. G. V. Fox, ~ Secretary of the Navy: Commander Nichols will no doubt do. I will advise you as soon as I know it will be safe for me to leave. It will not be earlier than Thurs- day morning. U. S. GRKNT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 24,18651 p.m. Capt. J. N. BERRIEN, Commanding Navy- Yard, lVorfolk, Va.: Have you a good steamer to take Lieutenant-General Grant and myself to Cape Fear, to be ready Thursday morning? G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. NAVY DEPARTMENT, January 24, 18651 p. m. Li~ut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: Have telegraphed to Norfolk about a steamer. Will Sen(l you word this evening. Thursday morning would be the time. Have ordered several iron-dads up the James. We have a torpedo-boht up there, nuless she is under repair. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. W~SHINGTON, January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The President just sent for me and suggested that Admiral Farragut should go down to James River, and he leaves for Annapolis in an hour. Before that I had ordered Commodore Radford, of the Iron- sides, to go up and take command in the James River. He will be there to-morrow afternoon. Captaiu Parker will be removed to-night if you desire it. The Saugu s has been sent for to return at ouce to James River. The Atlanta goes up at daylight, and any and all wooden boats at Norfolk. The Roaimoke, iron-clad frigate, stationed at Point Lookout, has been ordered to Hampton Roads. The Rhode Island is placed at your service at Hampton Roads, and if you do not go for three or four days I think I can get off~ I cannot understand why the torpedo-boat did not attack. Do you know any reasons? G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: I shall be truly glad to see Admiral Farragut, but in the present emergency he can be of no service, nor can Captain Radford. Though let him come; there would be no difficulty about getting commanders of vessels when you want them. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 223 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESP& NDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223 CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18G5. Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: If the rebel rains do not come down tonight I think everything will be safe before to-morrow night. I expect but little assistaiice, however, in case of an attack, from the navy nuder Captain Parker. I have been compelled to take the matter in my own hands to get vessels to the front, ordering by direction of the Secretary of the Navy. I know no reason why the torpedo-boat did not attack. As I understood the rebel rams raii our batteries to the obstructions, and then leisurely removed and blew them up, only opposed by a little infantry from the shore. When I sent up before daylight Captaiii Parker had removed the monitor to below the pontoon bridge. To-night I understand he has hanled down the river, leaving what obstructions stil! remain to be removed without opposition from hint I have sent an urgent appeal for him to go back. I have been busy all day getting up mate- rial to renew the obstructions, and army officers are now at it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. - CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18658 p. rn. (Received 8.l() l. in.) Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Nary: Until all is secure here I cannot leave for Wilmington. it will be Thursday morning at the earliest before I can leave. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18G5Gp. rn. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: I have been unable to get Captain Parker, by requesting, to assemble his gun-boats near the obstructions in James River; he seems helpless. I have now sent orders directly to commanders of vessels, and respect- fully request that you will sustain this course. Please direct during present emergency my orders be obeyed. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. -CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Hon. G. WELLES, Secretary oJ~ the Navy: I would respectfully call your attention to the fact that the rebels are iiow at work on a formidable rain in the Roanoke River at a place known as Rainbow Bluff. This rain they expect to complete within the next five or six weeks. It is hardly necessary for me to call your attention to the disaster that wonid be caused~ by allowing this vessel to get in commission against anything we now hai~e afloat in Albernarle Sound. I would respectfully suggest that one of the monitors now no longer of use with Admiral Porter be worked through Hatteras Inlet, and, in addition, the ram Albemarle be raised and repaired for nse. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 224 224 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CHAP. LVIII. WAShINGTON, Jan aury 21, 18G5. Commander W. A. PARKER, Senior Naval Officer, James River: You have sent no reports to the Departmeiit. What force have you at the froiit~? Where is the Spuyten Duyvil torpedo-boat Have the enemys boats come down so you can attack them ~ Put yourself in communicatioi with Lieutenant- General Grant and act accordingly, reporting to this Department direct daily. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary. WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865. Commander WILLIAM A. PARKER, Commanding James River Division, North Atlantic Squadron: You are hereby detached froni the command of the James River Division, and you will immediately transfer to the next officer in rank your command, and proceed to Hampton Roads and report to the Department by telegraph. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Yavy. U. S. MONITOR ONONDAGA, Ailcens Landing, James River, Va., January 24, 186511.30 p. m. (Sent 7 a. m. 25th.) Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: SIR: Your telegrams of 7.40 and 10 p. m. are received, detaching me from the command of the James River Division. The force at the front is as follows: Onondaga, Massasoit, and Hunchback, and torpedo-boat Spuyten Dayvil, torpedo-launch No. 4 and two tugs, Commodore Morris (at Turkey Bend), Eutaw (at Deep Bottom), Daylight (at New Market road), Miami (at City Point), l)awn (at Harrisons Bar), and General Putnam and Commodore Barney (at the Appomattox River). We attacked the enemys gun-boats to-day and drove them back, two iron-dads and Howletts Battery. I shall proceed to Hampton Roads to-morrow morning. WM. A. PARKER, Commander. CITY POINT, VA., January24, 1865. Captain PARKER: (Care General Gibbon.) What fleet have you collected or ordered to the front ~ You ought to have every gun-boat you can get in the river up with you. Should the enemy attempt to come down the river~it is yonr duty, in view of the large amount of stores here, to attack with all the vessels ~Ol1 have, using your vessels as rams as well as batteries, even at the expense of half the boats you have got. I will send vessels up the river under an engineer officer, who will place them in position for sinking to obstruct the channel. - U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant~ (~neral Page 225 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 225 JONES LANDING, January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Dispatch received. I am on my way to engage the rebel rams. WM. A. PARKER, Captain, Commanding Onondaga. CITY POINT VA Captain PARKER , ., January 24, 1865. Commanding Naval Flotilla, James River: Please inform me what vessels you have at the front. At this junc- tion of affairs all the vessels you can control should be got immedi- ately to the front, or, at least, above the large amount of public stores accumulated for the subsistence of the Army and Navy. The delay of the last few days iu preparing for a visit from the enemy, which I found on my return to this place yesterday had been expected, was providen- tially prevented from proving fatal to us. It would be better to obstruct the channel of the river with sunken gun-boats than that a rebel ram should reach City Point. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. AIKENS LANDING, January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Comdg. Armies of the United States: Your dispatch of the 24th just received. The names of the vessels at the front are as follows: Onondaga, Massasoit, and Hunchback, below Dutch Gap; Commodore Morris, at Turkey Bend; Eutaw, at Deep Bottom; Daylight, New Market road; Miami, City Point; Gen- eral Putnam and Commodore Barney, at the Appomattox River. Sev- eral others are at the Norfolk Navy-Yard undergoing repairs, and ex- pected to return in a few days. I will endeavor to get still more ves- sels to the front, as you request. WM. A. PARKER, Commanding Fifth Division, North Atlantic Squadron. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 1865. (Received 10.15 a. m. 25th.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have to report that I have been relieved from the command of the James River Division. I will be at City Point to-morrow Inorning. WM. A. PARKER, Commander. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. SPECIAL ORDERS TO GUN-BOAT COMMANDERs.] All gun-boats now in the James River above City Point will imme- diately proceed to the front above the pontoon bridge, near Varina Landing. This order is imperative, the orders of any naval command- ers to the contrary notwithstanding. By authority of the Secretary of the Navy: U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. 15 R RYOL XLYI, PT I Page 226 22(3 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Capt. J. M. BERRIEN, U. S. Navy, Norfolk, Ye.: Please inform me what iron-dads you can send Up the river, and how soon the first will start. They should run night and (lay nntil they reach their destination. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NORFOLK, VA., January 21, 1865. Lientenant-General GRANT: Telegram received. The Atlanta will be sent at once, and the Iron- sides will follow. Dictator not available. J. M. BERRIEN, Commandant Naval Station. WASHINGTON, ID. C., January 24, 1865. Capt. J. M. BERRIEN9 U. S. Navy, Norfolk: send all the iron-dads within your reach immediately up James River. Answer. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. Forward above to Captain Parker, on Onondaga, via Jones Landing. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICER GUN-BOAT ATLANTA: If it is possible for you to get over the bar at Harrisons Landing please run up the river to the extreme point now occupied by our gun- boats. I inclose you copy of a dispatch* from the honorable Secretary of the Navy. The importalice of having your vessel above is so great that I request you will make the effort to cross the bar at the expense of grounding your vessel. Lest you may not have a good pilot for the npper river I send one with the steamer carrying this. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General FORT MONROE, VA., January 24, 18653 p. m. (Received 4 p. in.) Hon. GrnEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: Comniander Parker has this moment reported that the rebel rams have passed the obstructions in James River. 1 have sent the officer to report to Commodore Radford, at Norfolk, requesting that the Ironsides maybe sent immediately to Newport News, and have ordered theAtlanta to the same place. JOSEI~H LANMAN, (Jomnm odore, Ship Minnesota. For inciosure, see Welles to Berrien, January 24, next, ante Page 227 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 227 U. S. S. MiNNESoTA, Hampton Roads, January 24, 1865. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Will General Grant have the goodness to inform me if the rams have passed the obstructions, or if there is any probability of their doing so ~? Can the navy at hampton Roads be of any service to the general ~ JOSEPH LANMAK, Commodore, Comdg. Second Div., North Atlantic Squadron, Senior Ogicer Present. CITY POINT, January 24, 1865. Commodore JOSEPH LANMAN, Hampton Roads: Two rebel rams l)assed the obstructions before daylight this morning, bat went back again. Your vessels can be of service, and I was in hopes some of them were on the way so as to arrive here during the night. U. S. GRANT, Lientenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Please have Colonel Duane and one of his assistants report here to me this morning for duty for the next two days. They can come dowii with you this morning. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General MEADE: Please direct Colonel Duane to send his photographers to Fort Fisher to report to General Comstock for duty until the works about Cape Fear River are photographed. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: You will please send in the 500 feet of bridging with the wagons and mules, and also two companies of engineers to accompany them. You will call upon General In galls, chief quartermaster, for transportThon. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 228 228 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18659.35 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Army ~f the Potomac: You will order one company of pontoniers to the Valley of the Shen- andoah to report to Major-General Sheridan. The general would be pleased to have the same company and officers that were with huin on his expedition last June. By command of Lientenaut-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 24, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE: Major-General Meade has left for Washington. He cannot now state how long he will be absent. He desires ~O~L to make your headquarters here. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 24, 18659.45 a. m. General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff, City Point: If it is not contraband ~with you let us know the news from the seat of war on our right. There seems to be a difference of opinion up there. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, January 24, 186510 a. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: The following dispatch is transmitted for your information: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 1865& a. m. The following dispatch just received from General Ferrero: Our shot strike the grounded boats every time, but they seem to shed them. They appear to be aground now upstream; easy range, but we have. not metal enough. If the navy would give us a lift we can destroy them all. One is blown up, one is disabled, and two others aground. The Onondaga is just below the pontooii bridge. JNO. GIBBON, Major-General. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Copy to corps commanders. Page 229 CHAP. LVIII.l COlU~ESPONDI~NCE, ETO.IJNION. 229 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, General RAWLINS, January 24, 1865. Chief of Staff: This is the way the rebels report the position of the gun-boats. The following message was intercepted at 10.30 a. in.: Colonel B and A. B.: The heavy firing heard last night was all, except a few guns, from Battery F, in Steuarts front, on Terrys front, at our left. A good deal of picket-firing toward the James. Afterward a gun-boat near Dutch Gap opened, and was answered by our batteries at Howletts and Bishops. The firing was brought on by an attempt of Terry, on our left, on Saturday last, to advance his picket-line. From C: No change oa hand or noticed. Sergeant at C. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 18. City Point, Va., January 24, 1865. * * * * * * * III. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. II. Terry will order the return to this place of Brevet Brigadier-General Abbots siege train and the detachment of the First Connecticut Heavy Artillery. He will retain at Fort Fisher the three 30-pounder Parrott guns he now has there and the detachment of volunteer engineers. J~T Major-General Gibbon, commanding Army of the James, will send forward without delay to their respective commands all detach- ments of men belonging to regiments and batteries now with General Terry at Fort Fisher, N. C., who were left behind when their commands moved; and also one company of artillery without guns. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant-Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, CORPS COMMANDERS: January 24, 1865. Ciry PoINrll.55. General A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: The following dispatch just received: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE JAMES, January 24, 1865. General GRANT: The signal tower reports one of the rebel rams coming down the river to meet the Onondaga, which is on its way up. JOHN GIBBON, Major-General. .JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 230 230 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, iNo. 4. January 24, 1865. To the end that a proper spirit of emulation may be aroused among the enlisted men of this army, and meritorious conduct recognized and rewarded, furloughs will be granted to such men as by atteution to duty, proficiency in drill, conduct on the march and in battle, and care of arms, horses, aud equipments, have proved themselves te be the best soldiers in the brigades to which they are attached. The following will be the rule of apportionment and selection: To each 1,000 men present for duty in each brigade one furlough, and if the excess is over 500 two furloughs, on selections made by the brigade commander. Should the excess not reach 500 a furlough will be forwarded repre- senting such excess in the different brigades of the division; if the total exceeds 500 one furlough will be selected by the division com- mander. Such furloughs will be for twenty-five days; will state that they are for soldierly conduct under the provisions of this order, and will be forwarded on the 27th day of each month for action at these headquarters. By command of Major-General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, Va., January 24, 1865. Colonel BRAINERD, Commanding Engineer Brigade: You will please (letail a competent engineer officer to construct the batteries now being put up within these grounds. The officer will report without delay to Lieut. Col. W. L. Duff, of this staff. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, January 24, 1865. Captain CHESTER, Acting Assistant Inspector- General: DEAR Sin: It is the wish of the lieutenant-general that work be commenced on the batteries on the bluff immediately and continued night and day without intermission until completed and the ouns mounted. You will therefore please make the necessary arrangements. If the Engineer Brigade cannot furnish men enough for reliefs to work all night you will please notify me immediately, that details may be made from other commands. Please communicate this letter to the officer commanding the engineers, as it is intended to have the force of an order from the lieutenant-general. Yours, truly, .W. L. DUFF, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Inspector- General Page 231 OnAr. LVIII.) OOffRtSPONDENCE, ETC.UNlON. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, Januq;ry 24, 1865. Colonel BRAINERD: You will discontinue work ou the batteries on the bluff until further orders. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: W. L. DUFF, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Inspector- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 24, 186510.30 a. rn. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of tho troops of this command since last report. Two deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPHLEYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The enemy have put up in their picket-line, or just in rear of it, partially covered by woods, what appears to be a battery, about 1,000 yards north of Fort Welch. No guns have been seen in it. It is reported to be connected with the main line by a covered way, and I have supposed it might be intended for a Coehorn mortar battery, which, should it ever be used, would annoy our camp and redoubts exceedingly. We should have to take it or silence it by Coehorns or other mortars. I do not suppose that it is iiitended to be used except in a ease of necessitythat is, unless something should occur to disturb the present quiet. It has occurred to me as desirable that we should have here some six (or thereabouts) Coehorns, and be prepared to use them if required. There are now six Coehorns belonging to this corps at or near Battery 20 (Ninth Corps front), in charge of a company of artillery belonging to this command. I would suggest that, if it can be done con- veniently, these Coehorns and the company be relieved by others and sent baci to the corps, where they would be prepared to put a stop to any firing of the kind 1 have mentioned, should it be commenced. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, )~ HDQRS. ARTY. BRIG., 2D ARMY CORPS, No. 19. January 24, 1865. The commanding officer of batteries in Forts Fisher, Welch, and Gregg will observe more than usual vigilance. One man will be posted at each piece from dark until daylight, and the detachments will be at their pieces from ~ a. in. until after sunrise. This will continue in force until further orders. By command of Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Hazard: 15. 1). EI)DY, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 232 232 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LYTIL HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. (Received 10.30 a. m. Lient. Col. S. F. BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the last twenty-four hours. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. (Received 3 p. in.) Maj. Gen. JOHN G. PARKE, Army of the Potomac: Following received by Major Hutchins: The rebel gun-boats came down the river last night. Daylight showed four of them aground between Howletts and the Crows Nest Tower. We blew one up, and the other three are still aground. We are pegging away at them, and hope to annihilate them before night, but they shed our shot handsomely. Have been up all night. Had a rally on the right of our picket-line, but our men did not lose a foot. Wish you were over here to see the sight. Yours, with much regard, GEO. A. HICKS. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, Brevet Major-General POTTER, Jc(nuary 24, 1865. Commanding & eond Division, Ninth Army Corps: Major-General Parke, in the absence of Major-General Meade, is in command of the army. Brevet Major.General Wilicox is in command of the corps. By order, & c.: JNO. C. YOUNGMAN, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 18653 a. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS: The enemys gun-boats have passed our obstructions opposite Crows Nest. It is not known how many, but two are reported. - JOHN GIBBON, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF YIR~IN~A AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18653.20 a. m. Brigadier-General IIAWLINS, City Point: General Ferrero telegraphs the enemny~5 gun-boats have certainly passed the obstructions. The commanding officer at the canal report Page 233 CHAP. LVIIi.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 233 three boatstwo iron-dads and one wooden boatas having passed the upper end of the canal, and that the wooden boat was coming back. I have telegraphed General Ferrero to know what evidence he has of the passage of the obstructions, and sent an officer, with some orderlies, to Yarina to report the facts. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRs. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18653.58 a. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, City Point: The signal officer at Crows Nest reports that the enemys gun-boats have not yet passed the obstructions. They are at Sleepy Hollow. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18654.15 a. m. Brigadier-General iRAWLINS, City Point: I shall know shortly from the commander of the Onondaga if the enemys boats have yet reached the obstructions. They may be wait- ing for daylight to pass them. I have sent for two tugs from Bermnda Hundred to bring vessels up to the draw in the bridge at Varina, with a view of sinking them there if it becomes necessary. but I will not sink them unless it becomes the only way to stop the gun-boats. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Cornmanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18654.35 a. m. (Received 4.55 a. in.) Major-General GIBBON, Commanding Army of the James: Your dispatch received. Everything is astir, and we are getting coal- boats and barges ready to send up to nse it necessary. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18654.55 a. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, City Point: General Grants dispatch of 4.35 received. An intelligent officer should be sent up with the barges, so as to exercise good judgment about where to sink them in case ot necessity. I think the best place is the draw in the bridge at Yarina; next to that, Deep Bottom. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Cornmanding Page 234 234 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W.VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. tVIII. IIE& DQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 1865. (Received 5.25 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: The signal officer at the Crows Nest Tower reports as follows: The rebel gun-boats have been below our obstructions nearly as far as Battery Sawyer. They have now gone back, and are no longer in sight. JONN GIBBON, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 18655.30 a. m. Major-General GIBBON, Commanding Army of the James: If the rebel gun-boats have gone back above the obstructions, and you have any schooner or other craft available now is the time to sink it where the other obstructions are. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18657 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: I have sent your dispatch to Captain Parker, but have as yet received no answer. My engineer officer is just in from the canal. The enemys gun-boats are lying some two miles below the upper end of the canal. The Onondaga dropped down to Jones Landing, but 1 hear is now on her way back. JOHN GIBBON, Major General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: I will send an engineer officer this morning to obstruct the channel in the river. If the point for obstructions is fixed below Dutch Gap place batteries to command the river at the point selected. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18658.03 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: One of my officers has just returned from the point of land below the canal. He crossed the canal and went within one-fourth of a mile of three rebel gun-boats built like the Atlanta, which are lying directly under the Howlett House Battery. On his way back he witnessed a Page 235 CUAP. IJVflLI CORRESPONDENCE, ETCIJNION. 235 explosion at the obstructions, and the enemy have doubtless blown up the obstructions, and will soon, no doubt, attempt to go down. All now depends on our gun-boats, and means should be ready to place other obstructions. The engineer officer reports thirty feet of water in the draw of the bridge at Varina, and, of course, barges sunk there would do but little good. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 18658.33 a. m. (Received 8.40 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: The signal officer on Crows Nest Tower reports that one of the rebel boats which came down this morning was blown up by a percussion shell from Battery Parsons. It is possible this may have been the explosion I reported in my last dispatch as having taken place at the obstructions. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 186510.55 a. m. Lientenant-General GRANT, City Point: The signal tower reports one of the rebel rams coming down the river to meet the Onondaga, which is on its way up. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 1865. (Received 12 in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Officer reports from Dutch Gap that one monitor and two gun-boats have come up the river and are shelling the rebel gun-boats. The latter reply slowly. One of rebel gun-boats is slowly moving up the river. Has not yet come round the bend. General Gibbon has gone to the river. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINiA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 24, 186512.45 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: General Ferrero reports 12.10 that the rebel gun-boats which were aground have got off and are under the lee of Trents Reach. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 236 236 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP.TIVIII. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND ~ORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Tield, January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Four men from the enemys gun-boat have arrived here. The Drewry was blown up. The Fredericksburg and Virginia are both aground. One of these men says he is a deserter from the Virginia; that the Fredericksburg got through the obstructions. Commodore Mitchell is in command. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General ~f Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: I sent a dispatch to Captain Parker before receiving yours asking him to go up with his monitors arid finish up the rebel navy. I also send your dispatch to him as a further encouragement. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQR5. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, January 24, 1865i .20 p. rn. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The two rams have withdrawn to a point above the llowlett House Battery, and firing has now ceased there. I would not be surprised if they made another attempt to come down, probably to-night, and if our gun-boats act as they did before there will be nothing to stop them. I think torpedoes would be of more service thaii barges where the water is so deep. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBDN: I have had two engineer officers and the quartermaster up the river all the morning making arrangements to effectually blockade the river. All the heavily loaded vessels we have and some of the gun-boats will be sunk, if necessary, to close the channel should the enemy start down. I wish you would suggest to Captain Parker the placing of some torpedoes up where the obstructions are immediately after dark. If they lose to-night they will be too late, and I think they are as it is. Some iron-dads are ordered up from below. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 237 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 237 CITY POINT, VA, January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: Please ask Captain Parker, of the Navy, why it is not practicable for him to place torpedoes where the rebel gnn-boat~ pass the obstruc- tions, and why is it not practicable for him to attack when they pass with but two boats, as was the case this evening. There ought to be quite a fleet of gun-boats at the front. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 1865455 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: I do not hear from Captain Parker, and do not know whether he intends to place torpedoes or not. I have heard nothing of the officer and barges sent UJ) by you, and have myself made no other arrange- ments than to prepare to throw some vessels into the bridge-draw, which, from the depth of water, can be of but little service. A move- ment is reported as taking place on our right, for which we are all pre- pared. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: The obstructions in the river will be laid to-night where they were before. I will send you immediately two 100-pounder Parrotts to cover the obstructions. They are now afloat. Where will you have them landed~ Lest you should have no officer to superintend planting them I send an officer up with the guns to attend to it. You can send him back with the boat if you do not require him. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18655.05 p m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: There is no place on this side the river where guns can be placed to command the obstructions. One might go to Fort Brady to replace one disabled to-day, and the other at Crows Nest Battery; but it will be a work of some days to get them into position. In both cases they would be landed at Varina, and I would recommend they be placed iu position there first to aid in defense of the river at that point. J( )IIN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding Page 238 238 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field January 24, 1865. (Received 7.35 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point I have barges all ready to Chain together and fill up the draw in the bridge. It would be useless to sink them. Would it not be well to put these in position as soon as all the gun-boats are above ~ They could not then fall below the bridge. The Onondaga now lies only a short distance above Aikens instead of being close below the obstruc- tions, where she could take advantage of any delay the enemy meets with there. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRs. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMX OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18658 p. m. Lieutenant-Generai GRANT, C ity Point: General Ferrero reports that a small tug, seen near the wreck of the- enemys gunboat,drifted to the obstructions; was boarded by our men and towed to shore. It was injured by the explosion, was partially filled with water, and contains four torpedoes. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON, Commanding Army of the James: Lieutenant-General Grant desires me to say to you that we have parties now endeavoring to place obstructions where the old ones were; that gun-boats and others will have to pass frequently during the night the draw you propose to obstruct. He therefore does not wish you to close it unless you are well assured that the rebel rams have passed the old obstructions and are really coming down. He further desires inc to say to you that he wishes you to urge upon Captain Parker how import- ant it is that his monitor should be up close to or even at the old line of obstructions, and entreat him to so place the Onoudaga that in the event of an attempt of the rains to come down he may engage them while they are in the act of passing these obstructions. F. T. DENT, Lieutenant- Colonel, U. S. Army, Aide-de- Camp. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 186511.20 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: General Kautzs scouting parties report that the Charles City road is strongly picketed, and there are extensive bivouac fires in the vicinity of Whites Tavern. This force is too far out to intend to attack us, an Page 239 CHAF. LYIH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 239 I think is there for the purpose of being on~ hand in case the rams should succeed in getting through. I therefore think the rains will make another attempt. I have ordered General Kautz to make a recbn- naissance early in the morning, and if I find the enemy moves far enough down the Charles City road, will move ont a force to attack him. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: Please direct your quartermaster to send to Fort Fisher all the wagon train, with the proportion of the supply train, as fast as the quartermas- ter here will furnish transportation. U. S. GT~ANT, Lieutenant- General. ONONDAGA, UPPER PONTOON BRIDGE, - January 24, 18656.45 a. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: A picket officer is just in, and reports one of the rebel rams passed belowtheobstructionsat4oclock,andhasnowgonebackabovethem. F. T. I)ENT, Lieutenant- Colonel, U. S. Army, Aide-de- Cvamp. JONES LANDING, January 24, 18659.20 a. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: Ferrero telegraphs me that one rebel boat is blown up, one disabled, and I wo others aground. The Hunchback has gone ul), and I have just seen Captain Parker. His iron-clad is disabled in her propeller, but at his request I have given him two tugs to tow him up. Ferrero says, with the assistance of the navy, he can destroy the whole fleet. I think things are working well now, and we stand a better chance of sinking or destroying all their boats than they have of even getting this far down the river. F. T. DENT, Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. Army, Aide-de- Camp. CITY POINT VA Col. F. T. DENT, , ., January 24, 1865. Jones Landing: If the rebel gun-boats are aground Captain Parker should run up close to them with his monitors and disable them. See if he will not do it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 240 240 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. JONES LANDING, January 24, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: I have just received the following from General Ferrero: The two boats that were aground have got off and moved under shelter of Trents Reach. One disabled. I sunk two boats and disabled one; the best I could do. F. T. DENT, Lieutenant- Colonel, U. S. Army, Aide-de- Camp. IIDQRs. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18659.15 a. m. Doctor SUCKLEY, Point of Books, Va: The rebel rams are at Howlett House Battery. The devil is to pay, and no pitch hot. You are not wanted unless you can doctor the Onon- daga, which has a weak stomach and songht refuge behind the pontoon bridge. JNO. W. TURNER Brigadier- General and Chief of staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18653.40 a. in. CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, Jones Landing: Get what men you can at Jones Lauding under arms, to prevent the enemys landing and burning your place. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 186510.55 a. in. Lieutenant KING, Pontoon Bridge: One of the rebel iron-dads is reported to be coming down. Look out for her. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. OFFICE OF PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, VA., City Point, January 24, 1865. Major-General ORD, Commanding Army of the James: GENERAL: The following account of the rebel gun-boats and their armament, taken from deserters, as near as we can get it, we believe to be correct: Virginia (iron-clad)Captaiu Dunnington; 160 men. Plating, 18 inches, sides shield; hull, 6 inches; top deck, 1 inch. Hull above water Page 241 CHAP. LYIIi.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 241 forward, 1 foot; hull above water, center, 6 inches. Draws 13 feet for- ward, ~~A feet aft. Length, 160 feet; breadth, 40 feet; breadth deck, 12 feet (top of shield). Armament, one 11-inch smooth-bore stern gun, one 8-inch rifled bow gun, two 7-inch rifled side guns. She has also four boat howitzers, used on deck against boarding. 1tichmond (iron-clad)one 7-inch rifled bow gun, one 10-inch smooth- bore stern gun, two 7-inch rifled broadside. Fredericksburg (iron- clad)same as ltichmond. Nansemond (wooden)300 tons; 32-pounder bow gun, 7-inch rifle aft. Hamptonsame as Nansemond. iDrewry same. Beaufort200 tons; one bow gun, 32-pounder rifle. Boanoke 200 tons; 32-pounder rifle. Texasjust launched, no machinery in yet; intended for two propellers. The Virginia is the strongest and largest boat, and believed to be a match for any of ours. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, PAUL A. OLIVER, Captain, & c. JANUARY 24, 186511.55 p. in. Lieutenant - WELUL, Signal Officer: (Via Headquarters Twenty-fourth Army Corps.) The rebel rams have now retired up the river. They came below the obstructions early this morning. S. N. ROGERS, Lieutenant and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, Steamer Governor Chase, James River, January 24, 1865. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff, Armies of the United States: GENERAL: I have the honor to report my arrival in accordance with the inclosed order from General Terry. I left three 30-pounder Par- rotts of my train at Fort Fisher~ the rest is still on the steamer C. C. Leary, at Beaufort, N. C., awaiting orders. General Terry retained it, not feeling authorized to order it away without instructions from the lieutenant-general. As it comprises all the reserve siege guns of my train, I would respectfully request that the train afloat on the C. C. Leary be ordered back to Broadway Landing. This will leave three 30-pounder Parrotts of mine at Fort Fisher, besides the entire rebel armament, with abundant supplies of ammunition. Even if it be intended to use more Parrott guns in that vicinity it would be better to send them on another vessel, as the C. C. Leary draws too much water to enter Cape Fear River, and to discharge her cargo on the open beach is extremely difficult. Three companies of the First Connecticut Artillery, belonging to my siege train, were also detained by General Terry temporarily, as they were ordered to his command by the lieutenant-general. General Terry, however, fully appreciated that they were needed with my train, and promised to endeavor to have them returned to me with as little delay ~s possible, applying for a full heavy artillery regimCut in their place. 16 R RYOL XLYI7 PT I Page 242 242 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIIL As I took them from their batteries on the lines in front of Richmond, where they are really needed, and as, if not retnrned, their places will have to be snpplied by a corresponding detachment from another regi- ment, thus linpairing efficiency by breaking up regimental organiza- tions, I would earnestly reqnest that they be ordered back to report to me with as little delay as practicable. My detachment of Volunteer En gineers has been retained by General Terry, their services being needed. My detachment from. General Grahams naval brigade has been ordered to rejoin their command. I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Comdg. Siege Artillery. [Inclosure.] SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. 11. 5 Fort Fisher, N. C., January 22, 1865. * * * * * * * III. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Abbot, U. S. Volunteers, is relieved from duty as chief of artillery of this expedition, and will proceed to City Point, Va., and report to the lieutenant-general commanding the Armies of the United States. The major-general commanding desires to express to General Abbot his thanks for the zeal, ability, and energy eviuced by him in landing the siege train of this command upon the open oceau beach under the most disadvantageous circumstances. By order of Maj. Gen. Alfred H. Terry: ADRIAN TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. BROADWAY LANDJN~, VA., January 24, 18658 p. m. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, ChieJ~ oJ~ Staff, Armies of the United States, City Point: If possible, please order me a telegraph operator; one is absolutely essential to the proper performance of my duties. I lost thirty-six hours in the Wilmin~ton expedition for want of one, and now need one greatly in getting those siege guns in position on James River. Please expedite the arrival of my train and companies from Fort Fisher as much as possible. I need both greatly in getting these guns hi posi- tion. HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 1865. Brevet Brigadier-General ABBOT: The batteries at Crow~s Nest and Fort Brady are expending a large amonut of ammunition. If measures have not been taken to keep a liberal supply at these points, Major-General Gibbon, commanding Army of the James, directs that it be attended to at once. JOHN A. KRESS, Lieutenant and Chief Ordnance Officer Page 243 CHAP. LYJII.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 243 BROADWAY LANDII~G, VA., January 24, 18658 p. m. Brig. Gen. IR. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, Armies in the Field, City Point: I had to leave my twelve wagons and teams at Fort Fisher by order of General Terry. I brought back the wagon-master and teamsters, who are especially valuable to me from knowing the best roads to my batteries. I need the twelve teams very much, at once, to get the heavy guns in position on James River. if possible, please have the teams and wagons replaced, leaving me the same men. HENRY L. ABBOT, Brevet Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, General DEVENS, January 24, 18653.30 a. m. Commanding Twenty-fourth Army Corps: Two of the enemys iron-dads have passed down the river. Have your command in readiness in case an attack on your front is made. JNO. W. TUR~ER. Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. 3.40 A. ]~I. General Gibbon directs you to get your command up, and let them make their coffee and be ready to move at a moments notice. Have your picket-line inform you if any movement of the enemy takes place. JNO. W. TURNER~ Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to General Heckman.) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 186511.10 a. m Generals DEVENS and HECKMAN, Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth Army Corps: The rebel ram Drewry has been blown up by our batteries, and the rams Fredericksburg and Richmond are aground under the fire of our batteries. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, January 24, 18654 p. m. General DEVENS: The cavalry report the enemy moving around on our right. Be pre- pared to send yonr reserve forces down the New Market road to relief of Signal Hill and Camp Hawley redouhts. Are these works fully nianned ~ Apprise them of the approach of the enemy. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chhf of Staff Page 244 244 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA, [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 18655 .40 p. m. General DEVENS: Have your troops under arms and in the breast-works before day- light. Report what available reserves you will have, and their location. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General, Commanding. (Same to General Heckman.) HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: The following is respectfully forwarded: HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE; INDEPENDENT DIvISIoN, 24TH ARMY CORPS, January 24. Lieut. F. L. BALLARD, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: Ile~iru from the colonel of the Fifty-eighth New York Volunteers, camped on the hill near us, that he has information that a large body of rebel cavalry is massed on our extreme right and a body of rebel infantry massed in our front on the Darby- town road, while a body of rebel infantry is moving toward the right on the Charles City road. I suppose you already have this information, hut I give it to you in obedience to your order. Very respectfully, & c., THOS. F. WILDES, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. CHAS. DEVENS, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 1865. Major-General GIBBON, Commanding Department: Two deserters from the rebel hues, who left on Sunday, report that rebel General Gary had been ordered to South Carolina, and it was spoken of iu camp that lie would take his old brigade of cavalry with him. Corps officer of the day reports that everything is quiet; he has just been round the lines. CHAS. DEVENS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., January 24, 1865. The order directing that the troops under arms may be dismissed is countermanded. They will remain nuder arms until further orders. By command of Brig. Gen. Charles Devens: EI)WARD MOALE, Captain, Aide-dc- Camp and Acting Assi8tant Adjutau4- General Page 245 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 245 HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, General HECKMAN, January 24, 18656.25 a. m. Twenty-fifth Army Corps: The enemys gun-boats are reported between Fort Brady and Dutch Gap Canal. Send the nearest good regiment to Coxs Ferry, to prevent a landing, or to line the river-bank as sharpshooters on the enemys boats, if they are in the stream. JINO. W. TUIRNEIt, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18657.15 a. m. General HECKMAN, Twenty Jifth Army Corps: Please countermand the order sending regiment to Joness Landing, and Jet it move over to the left of your line. JNO. W. TUIRNEE, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. JANUARY 24 18658 Major-General GIBBON, .40 a. in. Commanding: General Wild reports a large body of th~ enemy on the opposite side of the James moving toward Bermuda Hundred. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. W. TURNER, Chief of Staff: I have in reserve a detachment of my Third Division, about 2,000 men, on left of Battery 6; a brigade of the First Division in rear and left of Fort Burnham; two brigades of the Second Division right and rear of Fort Buruham, one to support the fort, and the other the line. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field J General HEORMAN, , anuary 24, 186512.10 p. m. Twenty-fifth Army Corps: Let the detachment go down to the gap. General Turner is in thaI~ neighborhood, and I will send him word. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 246 24G N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LUlL HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY Conps, January 24, 18654.25 p. rn. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: The 200 men, as ordered by telegram, passed u~ the entire peninsula beyond Dutch Gap Canal and found no person on the neck, nor could they get a plain view of the river. Three shots fired at them from the opposite side of the river, but no one injured. I await further orders. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier. General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTh CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18654.80 p. ni. General HECKMAN, Ilicad quarters Twenty-fifth Army Corps: The 200 men will remain on opposite side of Dutch Gap Canal all night with patrols pushed out as far as possible, should the enemy attempt to return, to annoy them from river bank as mnch as possible. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18655 p. m. General HECKMAN Twenty-fifth Army Corps: Instruct the commander of regiment at Coxs Ferry to line the river- bank from Coxs Ferry to Dutch Gap Canal with skirmishers, to fusil- lade the enemys boats, should they attempt to pass during the night. Same instructions to the lieutenant-colonel of One hundred and eight- eenth, at Dutch Gap Canal. JNO. W. TURNER, Briqadier- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18656,20 p. m. General HECKMAN. Twenty-ftfth Army Corps: Have your reserve artillery harnessed up ready to move. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to General Devens. Page 247 Onir, EViII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. ~47 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 24, 18653.10 a. m. General FERRERO: What evidence have you that the enemys gun-boats have passed our obstructions. Answer immediately. GIBBON, General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18653.35 a. m. General FERRERO: General Gibbon desires you to ascertain the truth of the report about the enemys landing at Crows Nest, and to make your disposition to meet it if they are landing. Re-enforcements could not reach you iii time to prevent it. The general thinks your force sufficient. JNO. W. TURNER. Brigadier- General and Chief of staff. HATCHERS, January 24, 1865. General TURNER: I have placed a 20-pounder Parrott in position, and will add another 30-pounder Parrott in a few minutes. I am determined to blow them all out of the water. We are doing splendid execution. E. FERRERO, Brevet Major. General. BATTERY PARSONS, January 24, 1865. General TURNER: We have blown up one of the enemy~s boats. E. FERRERO, Brevet Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field General FERRERO, , January 24, 18657.20 a. m. Bernmuda Defenses: Please telegraph particulars concerning blowing up of enemys boat. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier. General and Chief of AS~taff. HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL DIVISION, January 21, 1865. General RAWLINS: Glorious. We have blown up one ram, disabled a small gun-boat, amA have two rams aground, and we are hitting them every shot. I am determined to blow them all out of water, and feel confident to succeed. E. FERRERO, Brevet Major- General Page 248 248 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ICHAP. LYlII. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 18655.15 p. m. General FERRERO, Bermuda Defenses:. Vessels will be sent up to-night to be sunk at the old line of obstruc- tions. See that the calcium light does not interfere with it. Have communication with the parties sinking the obstructions. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. JANUARY 24, 186512.30 p. m.* General TURNER, Chi~f qf Staff: With the exception of firing from Howletts, all quiet on my line. The enemy made an attempt to drive my line, but so far have failed. I have ordered one-third on duty all night, and all to turn out at one hour before day, also in case of any firing. Will send a report in the morning. E. FERRERO, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. Brigadier-General BIRNEY: The general commanding directs that you have the breast-works manned in your line and that the men keep under cover. D. D. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. Brigadier-General BIRNEY: The gun-boats of the enemy are under the Howlett House Battery. The guns of a battery across the river dismounted a 100-pounder gun in Fort Brady. There is a rumor that one of the gun-boats is blown np. The general commanding directs that the troops do not remain any longer under arms, but held in readiness for any movement. Your One hundred and sixteenth Regiment is near Fort Brady, where it will remain for the present. They need rations. P. D. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 1865. General BIRNEY: The general does not wish the regiment sent down to-day. The small fatigue parties he wishes sent. P. P. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General. Probably sent 12.30 a. rn. 25th Page 249 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 249 HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 18654.45 p. m. Brigadier-General BIRNEY: No, sir; everything appears to be quiet down by them. There is no news, general. D. D. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 24, 18654.50 p. m. Brigadier-General BIRNEY: The general coinrnandiiig directs that the troops no longer remain under arms, but held ready for any movement on the part of the enemy. D. D. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Januarn 24. 18656 p. m. Brig. Gen. J. W. TURNER, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Colonel Evans reports that the movement spoken of in his dispatch took place about 2 p. m. to-day, and appeared to be about a division of infantry, which moved inside of their works toward the Charles City road and toward the enemys left. All quiet on his line. Scouting parties are out along the line in every direction. I will report the result of their operations. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General. HENDQUARTERS CAVALRY DIvISIoN, January 24, 186510 p. m. Brigadier-General TURNER, - Chief of Staff: Captain Masten, First New York Mounted Rifles, who has just returned from a reconnaissance to Whites Tavern, on the Charles City road, reports the road strongly picketed and extensive bivouac fires in the vicinity of Whites Tavern, which is about a mile in front of these intrenchments of the enemy. I have still another party out that I expect to hear from soon. AUGUST V. KAUTZ. Brigadier- General and Brevet Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 186511.30 p. m. General KAUTZ, Kautzs Cavalry: General Gibbon directs that you move out with a strong force of cavalry to-morrow morning early to develop and ascertain the enemy Page 250 250 N. AND S~E. VA., N. 0., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ECHAP. LVIII. movements on the Charles City road, where his fires to-night indicate a considerable force. It is a matter of considerable importance to ascer- tain whether he is moving down thc Charles City road. JNO. W. TUIRNER, Brigadier- General and Chif of Staff. HJJQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 1865. Colonel WEST: The general commanding directs me to inform you that the enemys gun-boats have come down to the obstructions in the river, but have not got round them. You will be prepared for any emergency. Send word to your picket-line to report promptly every movement of the enemy on their front. Very respectfully, your dbedient servant, II. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Colonels Spear and Evans.) HDQES. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field,January 24, 1865. Colonel WEST: The general commanding directs me to say that you will send out a scouting party, of such strength as you may (leem necessary, and ascertain if the enemy are in force in our front, and ascertain their whereabouts. The general directs that you reconnoiter the right of the cavalry line. Very respectfully, ~onr obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Colonel Evans.) HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 1865. Colonel WEST: The general directs nie to inform you that Colonel Evans has sent a scouting party toward Whites Tavern, with instructions to recon- noiter up the Charles City road to the intrenchinents; the party then to return down that road to the cross-roads, and then by New Market road to come in on our extreme right. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 1865. Colonel WEST: The general commanding directs inc to inform you that the com- municatiou you received at 8 p. m. was to inform you that Colone Page 251 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 251 Evans had sent out a scouting party. The instructions given to the party, as reported to you, were given by Colonel Evans and reported to you that you might avoid collision if possible. Colonel Evans was directed to send out a party and proceed on Charles City road. The general also desires me to inform you that hereafter he will see that Colonel Evans does not scout in front of your lines. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adj~ttant- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF TIlE JAMES, In the Field, January 24, 1865. Colonel WEST: I am directed by the general commanding cavalry to say that you will send out a scouting party at daylight to-morrow morning, Jahuary 25, unless you receive orders to the contrary. You will send in front of your lines. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. PORT MONROE, VA., January 24, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United #S~tates, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: I beg leave to call your attention to the following mat- ters in relation to affairs in the District of North .Carolina. General Sherman, who has recently assumed the command of the Department of the South, has been furnished by me with an account of all the troops, supplies of every kind, land and water transportation, railroad rolling-stock, & c. In order to fully carry out the views of General Sherman it will be necessary to seize and seenrely hold Kinston and to complete the railroad from New Berne to that place. For this purpose I would require an additional force temporarily of:, say, 5,000 men, and about fifteen miles of railroad iron, and a few experienced railroad bnilders. I would request also to be furnished with a light-draught steamer capable of carrying, say, 800 men, or two companies of cavalry or a battery of artillery. There is no such steamer now in my district. The Escort is about the class of steamer needed, and she was under orders for New Berne when the change in the department was made, when the order was countermanded. In order to clear out the Neuse River and keep it open for small boats I would require temporarily one or two light-draught army gun-boats. My plan for seizing Kinston would be to cross the Neuse at a point some seven miles below the town, and for this I would require a pontoon bridge, say, 200 yards long. I would call your attention to the fact that the rebels are pushing the work on the ram at Edwards Ferry, some fifty miles up the Iloanoke River from Plymouth. I have sent a small expedition to endeavor to surprise, capture, and burn this ram, and I am hopeful but not confi- dent of success. The rain Albemarle recently sunk by the navy is lying at the wharf at Plymouth, and she can easily be raised. If thi Page 252 252 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. is done she will be a match for anything the rebels can bring down. It is a matter of surprise to me that this has not been done before this. Unless we have something in the sounds to cope with the rebel rams we must expect at no distant day to have some serious disaster, for one single ram, if properly managed, can drive every one of our wooden vessels from the sounds. It would require but little ingenuity to carry one of our irou.clads or rains over the bar at Hatteras Inlet, and I cannot too strongly urge this matter npon your attention. If with all our iron-dads and rains we permit ourselves to be caught as we were at Plymouth last spring it will be a lasting disgrace to us. I shall inclose for your information the last account of progress on the rain from a deserter who came in here yesterday. I received simi- lar accounts every few days, and they can be relied upon. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Tfols., Comdg. Dist. of North Carolina. WINCHESTER, January 24, 18G57 p. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, Chief of Staff: I wish to fit up a canvas pontoon bridge for the cavalry of this mili- tary division, and want a ceinpany of pontoniers to take charge of it. Will you have the kindness to order a company to me from the Army of the Potomac. I should like to have the same company and officers that I had with me on my expedition in June last to Trevilians Station. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major. General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., January 24, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN: The Shenandoah has risen four feet in two hours, with immense gorge of ice. I doubt whether we can save the pontoon, the rise is so sudden and the ice so heavy. Shall use all effort to save the bridge. This evening truss of railroad bridge across the Potomac on canal gave way over the canal, but after two hours it has been repaired so as to admit the passage of trains. The troops are just commencing to arrive from the West. General Schofield and staff on Western train. Respectfully, JOHN P. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. SAINT INIGOES MD J Capt. W. TELL STREET, , ., anuary 24, 1865. U. S. Steamer Fuehsia: By order of the commander you will place your vessel near to time IRoanoke, and remain there until further orders, with just sufficient steam to go ahead at a momneuts warning. Send Dragon to Rappahan- nock, to say to Captain Hyde to give up cruising with the vessel Page 253 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 253 under his command and economize in every way in use of coal. Those that have coal must share with those that have none. Will send him coal as soon as we can. Be vigilant, and be ready to go ahead at a moments warning. Send the Dragon here as soon as she returns from the Rappahannock. JAMES TAYLOR, Corutmanding Officer. CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 186511.30 a. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Present danger from the rebel navy in James River is at an end, and I will take care that there shall be none in future. With a proper naval commander, and the fleet there is at his disposal, there should have been no cause for apprehension. During the night the rebel gun- boats ran back up the river, and were shelled from our batteries. One of them seemed very much disabled. General Ferrero reports that one was blown up and one sunk. We know one was blown up by a shot from Battery Parsons, but I am not entirely satisfied that another was sunk, though it may be so. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 18652 p. nt. Hon. B. M. STANTON, Secretary ~f War, Washington: it will be impossible for me to respond to the call of the Committee on the Conduct of the War at present. I will go, however, when I can. In the meantime, if the Committee will sununon General Rawlins, chief of staff; they will be able to learii from him about all I could tell them. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, January 25 18653 p. rn. Lient. GeIL. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Va.: The following is from Hon. M. F. Odell, and is forwarded for your information: I have just had a conversation with a deserter from the rebel army who has been in the works on the north side of the James over twelve mouths. He left them last Monday week, January 9. He says the rebels are mining for Harrison, a work taken from them last fall and still held by our men. He has been on the spot and seen the mine. I know the man; he is reliable. He also says that obstructious of a fornil- dable character are now placed in the James River just above Dutch Gap Canal. E. 14. STANTON, Secretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 18659 p. rn. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: If an order is published allowing prisoners in our hands to l)archase food and clothing when they have the means of paying for them Page 254 254 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. similar order will be made in favor of our men held in the South. I would respectfully recommend that such an order be made, to take effect on the 1st proximo, and that a copy be telegraphed here to be sent through the lines, so that we can get the benefit of it for our men at once. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 25, 186510.45 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: General Schofield has just arrived. Shall he go to Fort Monroe, to join you, or shall he await to accompany his first transports ~ H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of & atT. CITY POINT, YA., January 25, 186511.30 a. m. (Received 1 l~ in.) lVlaj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington: I will leave here at 10 a. m. to-morrow for Cape Fear River and Hampton Roads in the evening. I go from Hampton Roads on the Rhode Island. I would like General Schofield to go down with me, but if lie deems his presence with his troops necessary he need not go. How soon will the first division get off ~ U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY PolNT, VA., January 25, 1865. Major-General HALLECK, Washington: Please inlorm me if an ordnance officer has been ordered from Wash- ington to Fort Fisher. If there has been none ordered I will have to take one from here. An officer going should be provided with a gin and sling-cait, and all the appliances for hauling heavy guns. A regi- ment of heavy artillery ought to be sent to the Cape Fear River to gar- rison the forts. Please inform me if one can be sent from Washington. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 25, 18659 p. rn. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Ordnance officer ordered to-day to Fort Fisher. Gin, & c., will be sent by first transport. To send an artillery regiment from here will leave a part of our line without any garrisons. Abbots regiment is heavy artillery. Will send another if you so direct. Schofield cannot reach Fort Monroe in time to join you. No transports have yet reached Alexandria, but are hourly expected those at Baltimore are frozen in. H. W. HALLECK Major- General and Chief of staff Page 255 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 255 CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 186510.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 11 ~. in.) Washingtort: I do not want to draw any troops from Washington that cannot be well spared. I will garrison the forts on Cape Fear with heavy artil- lerists from here. I will not leave Hampton Roads until Friday morn- ing. It is probable the Assistant Secretary of the Navy will accompany me. If so, Schofield can leave Washington with him to-morrow even- ing. Answer if I shall wait for them. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, General RAWLINS, January 25, 18659.50 a. m. Chief of Stc~ City Point: Can you give us any intormation about the heavy firing last night or the gun-boats ~ JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding. We cannot. JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of & aff. CITY POINT, January 25, 186511.15 a. m. Major-General PARKE: The following dispatch explains the heavy firing this morning: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 25, 186510.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The enemys gun-boats ran past Fort Brady about 3 a. m. and passed np the river; one is reported as a good deal crippled. Five vessels are reported to have gone np. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General. JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Copy to corps commanders.) CITY POINT, January 25, 186511.30 a. m. Hon. G. V. Fox, (Received 12.40 p. in.) A8sistant Secretary of the Nacy: The rebel fleet ran np the river, last night or this morning, past our upper batteries, thus showing present danger to be at an end. I will leave here at 10 a. In. to-morrow for Cape Fear. Hope you will be able ~o go. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 256 ~56 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., ANt) PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, January 25, 18657 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: I will wait at Hampton Roads until Friday morning for you. Shall not start from here until 10 oclock to-morrow evening unless you say you cannot go. ~. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, January 25, 1865. CHIEF OF ORDNANCE: General Grant directs that a competent ordnance officer be sent to Fort Fisher, N. C., to report to General Terry, for the purpose of regu- lating the ordnance stores in that comm and. Very respectfiuily, H. NY. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff U. S. S. NEw IRONSIDES, January 25, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I am under way and coming up the James River rapidly. WM. RADFORD, Commodore, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 1865. Captain BLAKE, U. S. Navy, Monitor Onondaga, Jones Landing: I will send officers to-night to complete the obstructions in the river. Please give them assistance and protection from the navy. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAR I)EPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 25, 186510.20 a. m. JOHN W. GARRETT, Esq., Baltimore: It is a great reproach and injury to the service that,no matter what urgency there may be, no railroad communication between Washington and Annapolis can be relied on for want of your having engines fit to run on that road. Can you not correct this evil, or must the Depart ment provide a remedy for an evil so enormous and unnecessary? EDWIN N. STANTON, & cretarq o/ War Page 257 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 257 CAMDEN STATION, January 25, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON: (Received 2.30 p. in.) I have your dispatch of this a. n~. regarding the failure to obtain rail- road communication between Washington aud Annapolis last night. The cause of this failure has been erroneously st ated to you. The Annapolis and Elk Ridge Railroad, running from Annapolis Junction to Annapolis, is a distinct corporation, with a management ei itirely separate from the Baltimore and Ohio Company. It is twenty-one miles in length, and has only single track throughout. When our trains are run upon that road it is absolutely esseiitial to safety to run only by arrangement as, if a train is sent to Annapolis, and a traiii be upon the ioad in the opposite direction, the danger of collision is of the greatest character. Immediately upon the receipt of your tetegrani last p. m. our master of transportation telegraphed as follows: OPERATOR AT ANNAPOLIS JUNCTION: A special is about starting from Washington with Admiral Farrago t for Annapolis, an(l must have a clear track through as quick as possible. By special order Secretary of War: W. P. SMITH. Same to J. Brown, president and snperintendent Annapolis road, Annapolis. Although Mr. Smith remained at the station and on duty all night, the company being greatly anxious to accomplish your wishes, no tele- graphic communication to Annapolis could be had, altl~ough tried repeatedly, and the only possible means by which the train could be forwarded on that road would have been contrary to our fixed and most essential rule, to have sent it without an arrangement and with the fisk of a calamitous collision. Under the circumstances, e5J)ecially with so precious a life in charge, would it have been proper to have takemi this risk l The engine sent by Agent Koontz was one of our first-class passenger engines, and could have been run upon that road at moderate speed with safety. We have numerous engines that can be run without any risk upon that line, and an additional engine could have been sent, if deemed advisable, from Baltimore to Annapolis Junction for the pur- pose. The entire difficulty, in the recent case with General Grant also, was the want of an operator on duty at night at Annapolis. On that occasion one of our principal officers remained all night on duty at Camden Station, endeavoring, without success, to obtain cointimunication. The telegraph line between Annapolis Junction and Annapolis is owned by private parties and is managed by private parties, and is managed under the presidency of Mr. A. B. Hagner, of Annapolis. We have asked Mr. Hagner during the present condition of affairs to place an operator on duty at night at Annapolis to prevent future difficulty. However, may I ask you to order that station to have operators continually on duty day and night. If this be done we can arrange at any fime to accommi- plish rapid communication between Washington and Annapolis with certainty and reliability with a few hours notice. Some notice is nee(1- ful, so that, as there is no intermediate telegraph station between Annapolis Junction and Annapolis, the notification should be given to the Annapolis road to have their track cleared. Our company greatly regrets the failure to accomplish the desired result, althongh arising from a canse beyond the control of its officers. Will you oblige me by a(lvisin g whether an order will be given to maintain continuous tele- graphic communication with Annapolis. I shall advise the president 17 R HVOL XLVI, PT I Page 258 258 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LCHAP. LVIIL of that road of the possibility of additional similar requirements, and urge him to the exercise of great vigilance to aid us in accomplishing any instructions we may receive. J. W. GARRETT, President. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 25, 186510 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Two deserters from the enemy came into our lines during t~e night. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Jlliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvISIoN, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 25, 1865. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, - Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that I have assigned, subject to the approval of the major-general commanding the corps, Bvt. Brig. Gen. G. W. West, colonel Seventeenth Maine Volunteers, to the com- mand of the Second Brigade of this division, during the teiuporary absence of Brigadier-General Pierce; also that Brig. Gen. R. de Tro- briand, having returned from leave of abseiice, has resumed command of the First Brigade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet ]ifajor- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, No. 13. January 25, 1865. Brig. Gen. iR. de Trobriand having returned from leave of absence does resume command of this brigade. In compliance with paragraph 4, Special Orders, No. 28, dated headquarters Third Division! January 25, 1865, Bvt. Brig. Gen. George W. West is relieved from command of the same. By command of Brigadier-General de Trobriand: JAMES M. LINNARD, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 25, 1865. (Received 10.25 a. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the last twenty-four hours. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General Page 259 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC UNION. 259 CITY POINT VA Janu Major-General ORD, , ., ary 25, 18653 p. m. Fort Monroe, Va.: I shall leave here to-morrow, to be absent several days. I wish you to return to your headquarters iii the field, so that jul case of necessity you will be on hand to take charge of armies operating from here. It will answer if you start u~ in the morning. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 25, 1865. Brigadier-General RAWLINS: I shall know shortly from the commander of the Onondaga if the enemys boats have yet reached the obstructions. They may be wait- ing for daylight to pass them. I have sent for two tugs from Bermuda Hundred to bring vessels up to the draw in the bridge at Varina with a view of sinking theni there if it becomes necessary, but I will not sink them unless it becomes the only way to stop the gun-boats. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, Jcnuary 25, 1865. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff: Please state whether the two 100-pounders mentioned by General Grant yesterday were sent. One of them is required to replace a gun disabled yesterday in Fort Brady. JOHN GIBBON, Major. General. CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 1865. Major-General GIBBON: Five 100-pounder Parrott guns were sent last inght to be planted on the south side of the James River at places I)reviously l)repared for them. General Abbot had the matter in cI~arge. There is one more of these guns here, which General Abbot will be directed to send to Fort Brady. If the enemy have not left your right I think it will be well to attack them. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 25, 18659.30 a. in. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: General Kautz reports this morning that his scouting parties have been to Whites Tavern; report the enemys pickets in their usua Page 260 260 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. place, and no evidence of aiiy force being there. He expresses the opinion that his former report was exaggerated. He has other parties out, and I expect to hear further from him. I have most of the Twenty- fourth Corps ready to move out if it becomes favorable to do so. JOHN GIBBON, Major- Gonera. CITY POiNT, VA., January 25, 1865 9.80 p. m. Major-General GIBBON: In placing torpedoes in the river, place none above Coxs Landing at present. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 25, 186510 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Your cipher dispatch is received. Nothing has yet been (lone in the matter, and it will be arranged as you direct. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 25, 1865. (Received 11.30 a. in.) Brevet Brigadier-General ABBOT, Broadway Landing: Have ordered an operator to be sent from Fort Monroe. When he arrives an office will be established at your hehdquarters. Please have the 100-pounder Parrott gun that was brought here yesterday, and is still here, taken at once to Fort Brady, north of the James, and put in position. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant A djutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 25, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: General Wild reports five boats went up this morning at 5 oclock or so. They went up separately, each by its own power, apparently. The third in order was seen to be struck three tunes from Fort Brady, the balls striking fire from their iron sides. They traveled slowly up and made no return fire. The only sign of life aboard was the setting of a lantern on the bows of the third boat after she was struck the third time. This lantern was S00~ extinguished by the rifle-balls of the pickets. C. A. JJECKMAN, Brigadier- General Page 261 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 261 JANITARY 25, 18652.30 p. m. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Stafl2: The enemys flag-of-truce boat has Mr. Blair ou board, waitin gto come in our lines. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AN~ NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF TIlE JAMES, in the Field January 25, 1865. Brigadier-General HECKMAN, Twenty-fifth Army Corps: General Gibbon is absent. I would suggest that you receive the rebel flag. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY- FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 25, 1865. Brigadier. General TURNER: My two regiments oii the bank of the river suffered severely last night with the cold. Is it necessary for them to remain there, or will I order them to camp ~ I understand the enemys boats have gone np the river. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier-tJeneral. What shall I sayl J. W. T[UIRNEIIj. Yes; but have a few men thrown across there every night. J. G[JBBON]. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY I)IVISION, January 25, 18659 a. m. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: Colonel Evans reports that a battalion of the First New York Mounted Rifles was on the Charles City road at Whites Tavern this morning. The enemys pickets are there at their nsual posts, and Mrs. White reports that there has been no one down as far as her house for a week. Colonel West sent a scout last night and one this morning to the Charles City road, and reports that there were no traces of any mov~inent on the road. Colonel Spear has a party out on the Long Bridge road not heard from yet this morning. Captain Masten must have exaggerated the picket fires near Whites Tavern last night. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet ]iliajor- General Page 262 262 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIL hEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 25~ 1865i p. rn. General J. W TURNER Chief of Staff: I have sent you all the information I have. Colonel Spear has made no report as yet, but I am satisfied there is no movement this side of the Williamsburg road. I sent down two prisoners, captured beyond Whites Tavern this morning, belonging to Hamptons Legion. They give no information and know of no movement. Garys brigade, from their account, has not left, but moved out on the Williamsburg road yesterday, but went back again. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet ]Iiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 25, 18654 p. rn. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: Five deserters from Fields division, Fourth and Forty-fourth Ala- bama, who left their lines at 12 in. to-day, have just come in. They say there is no movement on foot in their lines. They were turned out yesterday about noon, and moved along the lines a short distance and then went back. The party sent out by Colonel Spear, four officers and eighty men, have not been heard from yet. Colonel Spear has gone out with another ~)aLty to see what has become of the first party. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major. General. KAUTZS HEADQUARTERS,. January 25, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chitf of Staff: Colonel Spear has returned from his search after Captain Nhnmon. He went to Whites Tavern, and learned that Captain Nimmon had been there, and returned on the Charles City road, the way he came, having heard of some small parties of the enemy. Captain Nimmon returned about sundown, haviiig gone out to Hiddells Shop, up the Charles City road to Whites Tavern, and back again, besides search- ing the side roads. No intelligence was gained, except the fact that there is no enemy moving in force in that neighborhood. A. V. KAUTZ, Brevet Major- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DiVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 2:3, 186512.20 a. m. Colonel EVANS: The geiieral commanding directs me to say that you will send out a scouting party as soon as they can see to move this morning. You will, if you deem it miecessary, take your brigade and proceed to Whites Tavern. You will be cautions and reconnoiter in froi~t of your line only, as other parties are to be out in front of other parts of the line Page 263 CHAP. LYIlI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 263 It is desired ~iid of much importance that the reconilaissailce be made as early as possible to develop the fact whether or not the enemy are in force on our front. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. NORFOLK, VA., January 25, 1865. Colonel MORRISON, Commanding, Port Magruder, Va.: General Ord has directed that the Purnell cavalry remain on Eastern Shore for the present. You will therefore retain the company Twen- tieth New York Cavalry. By order of Brigadier-General Shepley: WICKHAM HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NAVAL BRIGADE, James River, January 25, 1865. Lieat. Col. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant A4jutant- General, & e.: COLONEL: I respectfully request to be relieved from duty with this command and ordered to report for duty in the field. At the time I was ordered to report to Major-General Butler for duty in the Depart- ment of Virginia and North Carolina, I was assigned to the command of all the army gun-boats within its waters, and details from regiments serving in the department were transferred to me, wherewith to man them. When the command was assumed (December, 1863) little activity prevailed on the land, owing to the advanced season of the year amid the wretched cojtdition of the roads; but it was practicable to make raids with the boats, and for that reason alone I accepted it. After active operations in the field commenced, however, I frequently requested Major-General Butler to transfer me to another command, but he objected, because, in his judgment, the services of the brigade had been valuable in the early part of the campaign, and he entertained the impression that they would become so again when the campaign was transferred to the State of North Carolina. Now that the State of North Carolina no longer forms a portion of the department, and the field for the usefulness of the brigade is consequently narrowed, I respectfully submit that both my rank in the army and the services I have hitherto rendered entitle me to be transferred to a more important command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant. CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier-General. NEAR ROANOKE ISLAND, January 25, 1865. (Via Fort Monroe 26th.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Admiral Porter has ordered all gun-boats that can be spared from the Sound to New Berne, as he says that Hoke is going to attack that place. I do not know how the admiral received the information. My scouts, who are constantly out, report nothing unusual in the direction of Kinston. I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General Page 264 264 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP, LVIII. ITEADQUARTEIIS OUTPOSTS January 25, 186511.35 a. m. General HARLAND, Commanding: GENERAL: My confidential agent has just come in from Kinston, N. C. No signs of any movement this way nor in conteinplatPznm. The enemy intend moving the ram to Goldsborongh. The Kinston bridge was taken up to prevent its destruction by freshet. General Hoke is still at Wilmington. A lot of the Sixth North Carolina Cavalry will desert within a few days. I have a Raleigh paper of January 16, 1865; will send it by this p. m. train. P. J. CLAASSEN, Colonel, Commanding Outposts. hEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION Winchester, Va., January 25, 1865. Major- General HALLECK, Chief of Staff of the Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: In obedience to instructions, and from military necessity, the Valley of the Shenandoah from Winchester to Staumton, a dista.nce of ninety-two miles, was so much desolated as to make it necessary to issue at the present time a small number of rations. These destitute people cannot be provided for according to the system proposed in your communication of December 24, 1864, to Major-General Dodge. The people of this section are now so poor that there is no way that a tax fund can be created, except by an attempt to sell household furniture, and even then 1 doubt if there would be purchasers. The number now issued to will reach probably SPO, but will increase. The issues made to these people have been carefully managed, and are only made in small quantities. I am, general, very res~)ectfally, your obedient servant, P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, VA., January 25, 156510.40 a. m. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, Chief of Staff, City Point: Captain Folwell, Fiftieth New York Volunteer Engineers, was the officer who had charge of the bridge train for me last summer, and is the officer that 1 should like detailed, with his company, to report to me. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR I)EPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE. No. 39. Washington, January 25, 1865. * -- * * * * * 8. The leave of absence Imeretofore granted Byt. Maj. Gen. C corge A. Custer, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby extended five days. * * * * * * Page 265 (HAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 265 39. The commanding general Middle Military Division will grant Brevet Major-General Emory, U. S. Volunteers, a temporary leave of absence, as soon as the exigencies of the service will permit, for the purpose of appearing as a witness before the Committee on the Conduct of the War. * * * * * A * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. 0 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 25, 186510 a. m. General STEVENSON: What news have you ~ How is the bridge on the Shenandoah ~ Please answer at once. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., January 25, 1865, Major-General SHERIDAN: The rise in Shenandoah was from an ice gorge above, and went down as rapidly as it came up. It jammed the bridge badly, pushing it down stream about twenty yards on Loudoun end, and one boat stove in. We will have it all right as soon as the ice runs out. Potomac railroad bridge is all right; troops passing continnally. Nothing further in way of news. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 25, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Gommanding, H~ers Perry: I want you to destroy all ferry-boats on the Shenandoah from Berrys Ferry down to Harpers Ferry. This must be done secretly, or the boats will be concealed or taken to the east side. Call on Reno to do this work. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 25, 1865. General STEVENSON: One of my scouts from Shepherdstown reports that fortyrebels entered that place a few nights ago and robbed two stores. Have you any facts in the case, and is it best to allcw stores to be opened there~ P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 266 266 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., January 25, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN: A I)arty of rebel soldiers and citizens did rob a store at Shepherds- town of a small amount of goods. Ji saw the party robbed, who promised to furnish me the names of the parties engaged. I did not understand that there were other stores robbed, as he made no report of that fact. I have not received any report from General Seward in regard to the matter. My information is that the robbery was com- mitted ijy some rebel soldiers and citizens, and not by a party organ- ized for a raid. There are bnt two or three stores, and with small stocks. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 25, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding District of flarper~s Ferry: If you find any citizens harboring or abetting these robber bands in your district drive off all their stock and butn all their grain. Tarn the stock over to the agent of the Treasury Department. There are cer- tainly some such people about Shepherdstowu and its vicinity. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 25, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Corndg. Department of West Virginia, Cumberiand, Md.: Two of my scouts have just returned from Staunton. They think that Rosser meditates a raid westwar,d to Weston or Clarksburg as soon as the weather moderates. Keep a sharp lookout for him at Bulls Gap and Buckhannon. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 26, 186510.30 a. m. (Received 11.05 a. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Washington: Has General Tower been ordered to report to General Ord? If he has not been I will have General Shepley relieved with some officer now here. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 267 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 267 WASHINOTON, January 26, 186512 m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Assistant Secretary Fox and General Schofield will leave at 3 p. in., via Annapolis, to join you at Fort Monroe. I asked General Thomas if he could spare General Tower, but he has not answered. I doubt if he is able to do any active duty. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, Jan nary 26, 18651 p. m. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff.. General Terry applies for a paymaster to pay off the staff officers of his command. They have to purchase everything, and many of them are without means. General Tower is wanted for the command of Norfolk. It will not require as much activity as intelligence and integ- rity. If Tower can not be spared we can do very well here. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Generat. CITY POINT, January 26, 1865. (Received 10.10 a. in.) Major-General PARKE, Commanding: I shall leave here this evening to be absent several days. Give no leaves to general officers in my absence. I would prefer that General Humphreys, who has a leave, should not avail himself of it at present. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 26, 18657 p. in. Major-General PARKE: I leave this evening to be absent for several days. In case of any active operations you will report tO and receive orders from General Ord. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. [JANUARY 26, 1865.For resolution of thanks of Congress to General Terry, and the officers and men under his command, for the capture of Fort Fisher, & c., see Part I, p. 402.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 26, 186510 a.m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General Page 268 268 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. WAR DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, January 26, 1865. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Headquarters Second Army Corps, Army of the Potomac: Permission to visit Washington has been granted you. By order: li. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 26, 186511.40 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding A rmy of the Potomac: I beg leave to recommend that the battery now being constructed on the right of Fort Welch be called Battery Abbott, after Licutenant-Col- onel Abbott, Twentieth Massachusetts Voltuiteers, a distinguished young officer killed on the 6th of May, in the Wilderness. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 26, 18651 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Army Corps: GENERAL: I am informed by Colonel Michler that one of the works on the City Point line has been named after Lieutenant-Colonel Abbott, Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers, his name having been sent in by Major-General Hancock. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 26, 1865. (Received 10.40 a. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 26, 1865. (Received 11.50 a. In.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEirn, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: Eleven deserters from the enemy; one is from Wilcoxs division; the others from Johnsons. 0. 13. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major. General Page 269 CHAP. LYHI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 269 CITY POINT, VA., January 26, 1865. Major-General ORB Commanding Army of the James: Major-General Parke has been notified of my intended absence, and in case of active operations to report to yon. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY PoINT, January 26, 1865. Brigadier-General ABBOT, Broadway Landing: The lieutenant-general, after to-day, will be absent from here for several days, and, until his return, directs me to say that you will not avail yourself of the benefit of your leave of absence granted you from these headquarters. E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, January 26, 1865. Brigadier-General ABBOT, Broadway Landing: The lieutenant-general has reconsidered his decision iu your case, and advises that you start on your leave to-morrow morning. E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and A eting Assistant Adjuta~t- General. HDQRS. FIRST DIvIsioN, TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., January 26, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff, Department Headquarters: SIR: I respectfully remonstrate against granting permission to the rebel steamer to come down to Coxs Ferry by daylight. They will thus pass all our lines, and, under guise of flag of truce, they will have plenty of leisure- and every opportunity to examine everythingthe position of our pickets on both sides of the river, the exact bearing of the guns of Fort Brady, the disposition of our forces. Especially they will learn that we have no troops in the neighborhood of Coxs Ferry, and no new batteries; nothing but Fort Brady itself. In short, they will learn just how an attack can be safely made in that region in the dark. Above all, they will learn that we have as yet placed no obstruc- tions in the river to prevent a repetition of their naval descent. It is no injustice to the rebel character to presume that their chief object in seeking to come to Coxs Ferry is to spy out precisely this information. I therefore respectfully protest against any such arrangement. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EI)WD. A. WILD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 270 270 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP.LYIIL [Memorandum.] General TURNER: Send word to Colonel Mulford that parties from such boats will riot be allowed to land, and to General Wild to put pickets, not to exceed twenty-five, in field in front of his position to look out for such landing above the wharf. E. 0. C. 0. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Fort Fisher, N C., January 26, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. A. RAWLINS, Chief of #S~tajf, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I have received from Major- General Foster, commanding the Department of the South, a letter informing me that the State of North Carolina has been added to his command, lie has also sent to me a confidential letter of instructions for my guidance. I inclose copies of both these letters. By the lieu- tenant-generals letter of instructions to me, dated headquarters Armies of the United States, City Point, Va., January 4, 1865, 1 was instructed during the operations of the expedition under my command in all official matters to communicate directly with army headquarters unless otherwise ordered. I shall wTite to Major-General Foster and inform him of the nature of my instructions, and also inform him that I have asked directions ~11 regard to the matter from the lieutenant-general. I shall also say to him that until I receive such instructions I shall endeavor to conform to his views so far as they are applicable to the state of affairs here. I respectfully ask that I may be instructed as to what course I am to pursue and to what headquarters I am to report. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED H. TERRY, Major- General. [Inclosure No. 1.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH, Hilton Head, S. C., January 21, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. TERRY, or COMMANDING OFFICER, U. S. FORCES, WILMINGTON, N. C.: GENERAL: The District of North Carolina having been added to my department by the honorable Secretary of War, at the request of Major- General Sherman, in order to facilitate concentration of resources to supply his army, I inclose to you the following confidential instructions, which you will carry out if you are to remain there; and if you are removed you will turn over to your successor, with the proper cautions as to secrecy. I may not be present at the time for action, in which case you will depend upon instructions from Brigadier-General Hatch or General Sherman direct. General Sherman, as you will see from general orders inclosed,* has entire command of this as well as the departments forming the Military Division of the Mississippi. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Major- General, Commanding. See General Orders, No. 7, War 1)epartment, January 12, 1865, p. 107 Page 271 CHAP. LVIII.] COHEESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 271 [Inclosure No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH, Hilton Iliead, ~. 0., January 21, 1865. Confidential instructions to Byt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry, or the corn- manding officer of the United States forces at Wilmington, N. C.: General Shermans plans contemplate a devastating march through South Carolina and into North Carolina. He will draw his supplies from the coast, receiving them by difi~reiit rivers in South Carolina, and when he arrives in North Carolina from Wilmington and from New Berne. His army has flow commenced moving. Full and definite instructions have been giveu to General Palmer, at New Berne. Less definite instructions are given to you, because it is not certain that Wilmington may be taken at the time General Sherman arrives in North Carolina, and also that you may b~ prepared to take efficient independent action. What I wish attained by this information is a vigi- lant watch for General Shermans appearance in your vicinity about the 15th of February, and as great a preparation on your part for the pur- pose of aiding him. The supplies for his army will be drawn from here in transports loaded for the purpose. There are many things, how- ever, which you can do to facilitate the transmission of these supplies to his army when it arrives. These preparations should have in view the fact that -his army numbers 70,000 men aimd 40,000 animals. If Wilmington be taken you will occupy as much of the railroad toward Manchester as possible, and guard as many of the bridges in that direc- tion as you can. In fact, the same order holds good in reo-ard to the Goldsborough railroad and the railroad through Lumberton and Rock- ingham towar(l Charlotte. If Wilmington be not taken of course you can do nothing of the kind, bn t mast be on the watch and ready to act when required. The utmost secrecy should be observed with regard to this. The enemy may suspect the locality of General Shermans proposed route, but nothing should transpire to lead them to any con- clusion as to his real objects or the points at which he is to get his supplies. Relying upon your discretion in the matter, I. am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., January 26, 186510.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. I. N. PALMEfl, New Berne, N.C.: All asked by you has been ordered. Not less than 6,000 men will report to you. Prepare accordingly. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne N C J Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, . .~ annary 26, 1865. Commanding Armies of the United AS~tates~ City Point, Va.: GENERAL: Yesterday I sent from near Roanoke a few lines inform- ing you of rumors of an intended attack on this place. Since my arrival here I learn nothing to cause me to think that any iunnediate attack i Page 272 27~ N. AND S~. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. intended. It was undoubtedly the intention to make a deinonstmiation in this direction, but Wilmington now occnpies all the attention of the enemy in this State. The bridges across the Roai~oke at Weldon; Gaston, and Danville are all carried away, and the one from Weldoii, or a large portion of it, with all the railroad iron upon it, is blocking up the Cashie River near our post of Plymouth. It is said that the bridge at Kinston was taken up to save it from being carried off by the freshet. It is also rumored that Kinston is to be evacuated. I shall soon learn all about this. This extraordinary freshet has somewhat interferred with my expedition to Edwards Ferry. The roads are almost impass- able and the river is still very high. A surprise just now is impos- sible, but the force is still up the Chowan, ready to strike when a favor- able time shall arrive. Up to Tuesday last (the 24th) Wilmington was not captured, as I have an officer here who spent that day at Fort Fisher. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N C., January 26, 186.5. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: Major Gonraud, of General Fosters staff, has brought me dispatches from Generals Sherman and Foster. As the major also brought dispatches for you, which are forwarded by Lieutenant Pratt, I have no doubt you will be informed of the substance of General Sher- maims instructions to me, which are, generally, to hold on here, watch well the railroad and keep it in order, have every preparation made to secnre his supplies from Morehead City when he gets into this State, & c., and he was good enough to give me confidentially his plans for the future. You may rest assured, general, that I shall devote all my energies to these objects, and I shall hope to be of no small aid, in which case I can have it to say that I, too, was of Shermans army. I shall probably need some railroad builders, and some more workmen to enlarge the wharf at Morehead City; but of this I shall inform you as soon as I can ascertain precisely what I shall require. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS NEWPORT BARRACKS, N. C., January 26, 1865. Captain ATWILL, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Morehead City, N. C.: SIR: Nine deserters from Company B, Seventeenth North Carolina (Confederate), have just been brought in by my guards. They left Wilmington on Wednesday, the 18th instant. They report Lieutenant- General Anderson commanding the Confederates at that place, and report his command 5,000 infantry, 20 l)ieces of artillery, aiid only a small number of cavalry. The 5,000 infantry and the artillemy are under the immediate command of General Iloke. When the deserters left Wilmington Iloke was fortified at Sugar Loaf lull, a distance o Page 273 CHAP. LYlII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 273 about four miles from Fort Fisher; but the (leserters say that siuce they left Wilmington they were informed that Hoke was falling back toward Wilmington. II. SPLAINE, Licut. Col. Serenteenth ]Jliassachusetts Volunteers, Corn dg. Camp. HEADQUARTERS PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, DEFENSES SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Alexandria, Va., January 26, 1865. Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of AS1taff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have sent a squad of cavalry to look after some guer- rillas said to be iu the vicinity of Occoquan; otherwise all is quiet to-day. H. H. WELLS, Col. and Provost-Miarshal- General, Defenses AS~outh of the Potomac. SAINT INIGOES, January 26, 18e5. Commander F. A. PARKER: Information is obtained through General Barnes that an expedition is being fitted out in Westinoreland, Lancaster, and Northumberland Counties for the purpose of capturing schooners and tugs in this vicin- ity. It is thought it will be ready as soon as the boats from Richmond arrive. The expedition is said to consist of 400 meu, and are living at the different farm-houses in squads of three or four. It is expected to start from Poor Jacks Bay, opposite Blackistones Island. JAMES TAYLOR, Acting Jlaster, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Major-General CROOK, January 26, 1865. Commanding Department of lVest Virginia: It was impossible for mc to go to Cumberland to-day. have you ~-ot the report of the Beverly affair yet l The force which male the attack was 400 men under liosser. Harry Gilmor has just gone over iato the Lost River Valley with the Second Maryland Battalion, an(l will have command of Mc~eills and Woodsons companies, numbering in all about 1~0 or 1Th men. P. H. SHERIDAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 27, 186511 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. One private fron the Fifth New hampshire Volunteers deserted to the eiiemy last night. A. A. ITIIMPI-IREYS, Major- (Jenerat. 18 R RVOL XLVI~ PT I Page 274 274 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIIL. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 27, 1865. (Received 12.25 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: General Orders, No. 3, respecting the colors ot the Twentieth Massa- chusetts, appears to contain an error. This regiment was not deprived of its colors by General Orders, No. 37, of September 23, 1864, since the action of Ileams Station took place in August, and the language of the order is hereafter. The order of Major-General Gibbon of Au- gust 30, approved by General Orders, No. 37, does riot mention the Twentieth Massachnsetts as one of the regiments to lose its colors. A. A. IIU7MPIIREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 27, 1865. ~Iajor-General HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: General Orders, No~ 3, was carefnlly considered~ was submitted to General Meade in almost the exact words in which it was printed, and by him approved. Your telegram has also been referred to the chief of staff. The object of the order was to publicly restore to the Twen- tieth Massachnsetts the colors of which it had been deprived by giving a retroactive effect to the first paragraph of General Orders, No. 37, of 1864. This might and perhaps should have been done by the immediate commander of the officer who committed the error. But the matter having been referred here for action, the commanding general consid- ered that the most thoroughly restoring to the regiment the right it had lost was the principal object to be attained, and that the course which has been taken was the best calculated to effect this. The regi- nient had lost its colors in battle had b ceir deprived by a wrong con- struction of General Orders, No. 37, of the right to carry others, and the slight error in the recital which was necessary to bring the whole sub- ject within the scope of the order is not considered as affecting its spirit or as affording any just cause of complaint. I trust that, looking at the question from this point of view, you will concur in the foregoing opinion. Very respectfully, & c., S. F. BAIISTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General~ HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 27, 1865. Brigadier-General BAXTER, Commanding Second Brigade: GENERAL: General Warren having returned, General Crawford directs me to inform you lie has resumed command of this division. He directs me also to say that you will resnme command of the Second Brigade. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WALTER T. CHESTER, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 275 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 275 HEADQUARTERS SIXTH AnMY CoRPS, January 27, 1865. (Received 11.45 a. ni.) Lient. Col. S. F. BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. Brevet GEG. W. GETTY, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, Hon. E. M. STANTON, January 27, 1865. Secretary of War: Richmond Whig of the 27th contains the following-: A large raiding party of the enemy, consisting of cavalry and infantry, is reported moving up the Chowan River, N. C., in the direction of Weldon. Brig. Gen. Joseph Hayes, of the U. S. Army, was brought to this city yesterday from Dan- yule for special exchange. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Fort Fisher, N. C., January 27, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. A. RAWLINS, Chief of Staff, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that no essential change in the condition of affairs here has taken place since my last report. Hoke is still in our front, re inaining quietly behind his intrenchments. Fort Fisher is being put into a defensible conflition under the direction of Brevet Brigadier-General Comstock. The line toward Wilmington has been made much stronger, and additional guns from among those captured in the fort have been placed upon it. 1 have sent two regi- nients to occupy Sniithville and Fort Caswell, relieving the seamen and marines placed there by the navy. The enemy are busily working on Fort Anderson, and from the number of camp-fires seen I think that they have some force there. I am inclined to think, however, that it is a part of Hokes division, especially as deserters inform me that the remnant of Hagoods brigade is there. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED H. TERRY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. C., January 27, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: GENERAL: Your communicatioii of the 25th, asking authority to issue rations to people of the country between Winchester and Staunton, has been received and submitted to the Secretary of War. I a~u directe Page 276 276 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. to reply that it is within the authority of a commanding officer to afford temporary relief to those whom the fortunes of war have placed in his hands or under his immediate protectioii, but that no authority can be given for the subsistence of rebel families outside of our lines, nor even within, any longer than till they can be removed or sent to their friends and natural protectors. The disloyal people of the Shenandoah south of Winchester and outside of our line~ have been, and are now, at full liberty to join friends inthe rebel service or in other places in the rebel ter- ritory. The disloyal within our lines should be sent South to feed upon the enemy. Loyal refugees should be temporarily assisted and sent North where they can earn a livelihood. While the men of Virginia are either serving in the rebel ranks, or, as bushwhackers, are waylaying and murdering our soldiers, our Government must decline to support their wives and children. For these and other sufficient reasons the Secre- tary of War has declined to approve your application, except to the limited extent above mentioned. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 27, 186511.40 ~. rn. Major-General SHERIDAN, Near Winchester: GENERAL: Please state what regiments and batteries composing Second Division, Nineteenth Army Corps, recently left your command. J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. WINCHESTER, VA., January 27, 1865. Col. J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant-General: The following are the regiments of Second DivIsion, Nineteenth Army Corps, that recently left my command, viz: Ninth Connecticut Volunteers, Twelfth Maine Volunteers, Seventy-fifth New York Vol- unteers, One hundred and thirty-first New York Volunteers, Twenty- second Iowa Volummteers, One hummdred and twenty-eighth New York Volunteers, One hundred and seventyfifth New York Volunteers, Thirty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteers, Eighteenth Indiana Volun- teers, Twenty-eighth Iowa Volanteers, Fourteenth New llamnpshire Volanteers, Fourteenth Maine Volunteers, One hundred and fifty- ninth New York Volunteers, Eleventh Indiana Volunteers, Thirteenth Commuecticut Volunteers, One hundred and fifty-sixth New York Vol- unteers, One hundred and seventy-sixth New York Volunteers, Eighth Indiana Volunteers, and Twenty-fourth Iowa Volunteers. No artillery was sent with this division. The two batteries, ambulances, and wagons of the division are uow at Frederick, Md., intact. P. H. SHERIDAN, ]IiJi~or- General, Commanding Page 277 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 277 MUDDY BRANCH, MD., January 27, 1865. Lieut. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Assi~tant Adjutant- General: SIR: The following communication has just been received by me from Captain iDunning, the officer commanding the upper end of picket- line. I forward it by telegraph for your information: YOUNGS ISLAND FORD, MD., January ~7, 18G5. MAJOR: 1 havejust received information from P. S. Trundle, whose pass I inclose, that there are now in Leesburg about 300 rebels who intend attacking our lines. Their plan, he states, is to cross between the block-house and horse-pen culvert and attack the pickets simultaneously, also to cross another party between Lieutenant Days post au4 Lieutenant Blacks, and cross under the culvert at Whites Ford. Their principal object is to capture horses. I find since I sent in my report this morning the ice in the river will bear at most any point. They are well acquainted with our number and strength and where each picket is posted. I have given instructions to be prepared at the upper end of the line. I am, sir, respectful1~, E. C. DUNNING, Captain, Commanding. J. F. ANDIREWS, M~mjor, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 27, 1865. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of Washington: I have the honor to report all quiet along the line of my command. WM. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washin.qton, D. C., January 27, 1865. (Received 3.20 p. in.) IDol. WILLIAM GAMBLE, Commanding First Separate Brigade: COLONEL: There are a number of steamers in the Potomac between Alexandria and Aquia Creek supposed to be fast in the ice. The major- general commanding directs that you send a battalion of cavalry to scout the country bordering the river to Aquia. The headquarters should be made at or near iDumfries. It is presumed that attempts may be made by guerrillas to destroy these vessels, taking advantage of the ice, and it is expected tl~at you will prevent their success. The patrol should be preserved until the river opens. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chi~,f of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., January 27, 1865. (Received 4.30 p. mm) Col. WILLIAM GAMBLE, Commanding First Separate Brigade: COLONEL: A reliable man reports about 300 rebels at Leesburg, con- ceit trated for the purpose of attacking our picket-line on the upper Potomac. Send at once a sufficient force under a competent officer t Page 278 278 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII Leesburg to attack anti disperse these people. Let the commanding officer communicate with Major Andrews, commanding ou Upper Poto- mac, by way of Edwards Ferry. Report action. By command of Major-General Augur: J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 27, 1865. M~ DEAR MERRITT: I would like very much to break up the four companies of rebel cavalry picketing across the valley from Edenbnrg to North Mountain. I can furnish good guides, who know every road and path. Come and see me about it to-day. P.11. SHERIDAN Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, January 27, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division: Full report of Beverly affair was sent you two days ago, together with recommendations in the case.* General Kelleys scouts, sent out from New Creek, report that Gilmor has been sent to Moorefield, to take command of McNeills and Woodsons force, together with other detachments, in all amounting to 300 or 400 men. Surgeon Cracraft, Nineteenth Virginia Cavalry (rebel), in a letter to his wife, states that Jacksons brigade expect~ to winter near Staunton, either in Bath or Pocahontas County. A rebel deserter just in reports a part of Jack- sons force already at Warm Springs, in Bath County, with one company at Green Bank, on Greenbrier River, in Pocahontas County. GEORGE CROOK, Major- General. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 27, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY Cumberland Md.: The following just received by telegraph from Beverly: A refugee just arrived from Highland County. He reports Colonel Arnett, with Twentieth Virginia (rebel) Cavalry, at Crab Bottom on Monday, and General Rosser at Warm Springs, and tbat it is generally understood in Highland and adjoining - counties that Rosser is to make a raid through West Virginia soon as the weather gets suitable. J. JOLLS, Operator. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Comm~tnding, & e. ~See Part I, p.447 Page 279 CHAP. LViII.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 279 BALTIMORE, January 27, 18651 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I will be ready to leave here on Monday next. Js it your desire that I turn the department over to General MeCook during my absence? LEW. WALLACE, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, January 27, 1865. Maj. Gen. LEW. WALLACE, Commanding Middle Department, Baltimore, Md.: The Chief of Staff U. S. Army directs that you furnish a suitable i~umber of troops from your command for guard duty at Camp Parole, in lAace of the Eleventh U. S. Infantry ordered away. Please acknowl- edge receipt by telegraph. li. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WINCHESTER, January 27, 1865. Brigadier-General SCHOEPF, Commanding Fort Delaware: Additional men will be sent you in a very few days to the number of the Delaware regiment relieved. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 20. .City Point, Va., January 28, 1865. * * * * * * * II. Maj. Henry V. Slosson, Fifteenth Regiment New York Engineers, will proceed with pontoon train, troops, & c., now on board steamer Neptune, to Beaufort, N. C., and there report to the officer in command of U. S. forces at that place. Immediately on arrival he will debark his train and command to enable the vessel to return to City Point without delay. Major Slosson will call oii the commanding officer at Beaufort for such number of teamsters as he may require for his train, who is hereby directed to furnish the same. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 28, 18651.45 p. m. Major General PARKE: Deserters in to-day state that day before yesterday Mahones division, two miles out of Petersburg on Boydton plank road, left going south- ward, supposed by some for North Carolina, by others to be a tlank movement. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General Page 280 280 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIL hEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Conps. January 28, 186510.45 a. m. Brig. 0-en. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of this command since last report. Ten deserters from the enemy canie into our lines during yesterday and last night. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 28, 1865. (Received 12 p. in.) BreVet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: Deserters from Hays old brigade, now part of Gordons division,~ Earlys corps, report that the division moved from their camps near Hatchers IRan, north of Boydton plank road, on Wednesday night to Mahones camp, and now occupy it, and that on their way they passed Mahones division moving down the Boydton plank road toward Wel- don:. Upon close questioning I cannot find that they know positively of more than two brigades of Mahones having passed themHarris and Finegans. They say, however, that the men they met and ca)led to said that all of Mahones division had gone, or was then going. A. A. HUMPHREY S, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 28, 186511 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: The supply of wood within reasonable hauling distance is becoming deficient for part of my command. It has been suggested to conuect the Norfolk railroad with our military railroad and obtain fire-wood for part of this command about one mile and a half down that road, where there is a large supply of excellent hard wood sufficient for fuel for the whole army. A few platform-cars, with armed cutting parties from each division, daily, or every other day or third day, wonld supply fuel more readily aud with less hauling than it is now supplied. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 28, 1865. Lieutenant-Colonel BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet illiajor- General, Commanding Page 281 CHAP. LYIIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 281 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 28, 1865. Col. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that the Sixty-first Massachu- setts Volunteers be assigned to the Third Brigade of this division. This is a one-years regiment which has recently arrived at City Poimit, and is, I iilderstand, not yet brigaded and awaiting orders from the commander of the Army of the Potomac. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. B. MoLAUGilLEN, Brevet Brigadier- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D - C., January 28, 18659.40 p. in. Major-General ORD: The President authorizes you to make such arrests, close such stores, and seize such property as in your judgment may be necessary to pre- vent supplies being furnished to the enemy, or may be necessary f~r the safety and proper police of your command; also to limit the supply stores to such number as you deem proper. By order of the President: EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, - January 28, 18657.05 p. m Major-General GIBBON, Twenty-fourth Army Corps: General Ord directs that you send a regiment of General Harris division to report to General Ferrero to-morrow morning, with their baggage. This detachment will probably be absent some time. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of StajJ HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 28, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. T. M. HARRIS, Commanding Independent Division: GENERAL: In compliance with instructions from headquarters Department of Virginia, the commanding general directs that you send one regiment of your command to Brevet Major-General Ferrero, com- mnanding on the Bermuda line. They will take their baggage with them, as they will probably be absent some time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD MOALE, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 282 282 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HDQRS. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA hUNDRED VA , ., ARMY OF TIlE JAMES, January 28, 1865. Maj. JAMES B. CAMPBELL, Commanding Second Brigade, Provisional Division: MAJOR: From information received, I have reason to believe that the enemy are determined to carry the right of your picket-line. They cover that point to aid them when their fleet comes down the river, which they intend to do soon, from all accounts. I desire you to use your own judgment and strengthen that portion of the line, as it must not be given up. You will also send a mounted orderly every evening to remain until morning at a point near the picket on the river to bring information in case of any movement in this direction. You can strengthen the right of your line at night, and caution your comirand of the intentions of the enemy, for their next attack will be a deter- mined one. By command of Brevet Major-General Ferrero: GEG. A. HICKS, Assistant A dju taut- General. - HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGImA AND NORTh CAROLINA, ARMY OF TEE JAMES, In the Field, January 28, 18652 p. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. V. KAUTz, Cavalry Division: Notify your pickets that a small expedition of our forces started from Haxalls Landing this morning, and will pass around by your right and may come into your lines in order to prevent any trouble or conflict. JNO. W. TUENEII, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, Jannary 28, 1~65 ~4O p. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. V. KAUTZ, - Kantzs Cavalry: The enemy are reported moving a cavalry force of 800 men on Wil- Iianisburg. Hold 1,000 men in readiness to move out on the Long Bridge road across the Chickahorniny, if necessary. JNO. W. TUJINELI, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. WILSONS WHARF, January 28, 1865. Lieutenant-Colonel SMITh, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have been informed by very reliable authority that the enemy intend making a raid on Williamsburg in a few days with 700 or 800 cavalry. They are to move down from Richmond on the north Side of the Clmickahominy through New Kent County. J. B. CAhIll, Brigadier- Gemeral Page 283 CRAP. LYIJI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 283 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 28, 1865. Colonel MORRISON, Fort Magruder: The enemy are reported moving on your post with a force of 800 cavalry. Be Prepared for them. J. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of SteQif. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 28, 1865. Brig. Gen. C. K. GRAHAM, Naval Brigade, Broadway Landing: Your telegram is received and your proposition is appr~ved. Please see Commodore Radford on the river and arrange with him some plan of small boat or launch patrols on the lower James, where boats are rel)orted as crossing over, or concealed in creeks, or preparing to use torpedoes. As soon as the two gun-boats now preparing are ready send them to report to Brigadier-General Palmer, in North Carolina. Have the two officers in command of these gun-boats report to General Palmer by letter at once, stating that they will report with gun-boats in person as soon as the boats are ready. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staffi GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISION, No. 12. January 28, 1865. The following, from His Excellency the Governor of the State of New York, is published for the information of those concerned: CONCURRENT RESOLUTIONS. * * * * * * * Resolved, That the thanks of the Legislature representing the people of the State of New York are hereby tendered to Maj. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan and the officers and men under his command for their gallant exploits in the Valley of the Shenan- (loab, in achieving a series of victories which will shine resplendently in our military aiiuals with a luster as enduring as history. * * * * * * * STATE OF NEW Yonu, In Assembly, January 13, 1865. Resolved, That the Assembly concur in the passage of the foregoing resolutions. By order: J. B. CUSHMAN, Clerk. STATE OF NEW YORK. In Senlte, January 5, 1865. The foregoing resolutions were duly passed. JAS. TERWILLIGER, Clerk. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 284 284 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. WINCHESTER, VA., January 28, 18655 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Ex-Confederate Senator Foote has just come into my lines in Lou- doun County. He desires to see Secretary Seward on important busi- ness, and wishes to go on to Washington to.night. What are your orders in the case l P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, January 28, 18656.15 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: Your telegram just received. You will detain Mr. Foote in custody, and not allow him to come to Washington or communicate with any one until you receive the Presidents instructions. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War HDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Col. WILLIAM GAMBLE, January 28, 1865. Commanding at Fairfax Court-House: COLONEL: Information has been received to the effect that there are now no vessels in the ice between Alexandria and Aquia Creek. With- draw your troops from the vicinity of Dumfries. Respectfully, J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Fairfax Court-House Va Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, , ., January 28, 1865. Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: 1 have the honor to inform you that everything is quiet along the lines of this command. The scouting party ordered for Leesburg started this morning at 2 oclock. The scouting party ordered to Dumfries has been ordered to return. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Per CHARLES I. WICKERSHAM, c1aptain and Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, January 28, 1865. General TIBBITS: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you detail 200 men, with the usual complement of officers, in charge of Major Gibson, Four Page 285 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 285 teenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, for a reconnaissance. Each man will have two days rations and will be warmly clad. Major Gibson will report at once for instructions. The men must start very early to-mor- row a. in. Respectfully, WJLL IRUMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 28, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Commanding Department of West Virginia: Harry Gihuor is not as far down as Moorefield, but is on headwaters of Lost River, trying to unite the Second Maryland Battalion and McNeills and Woodsons companies. My information is that Rossers division will go east of Blue Ridge, and Lomax come into the Valley about Staunton, and this movement may have commenced. The report of the Beverly affair has not yet reached me. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 28, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE CROOK Commanding Department of West Virginia: I sent two regiments of cavalry to Wardensville this morning with directions to surprise the three companies of the enemy stationed on the North Fork of the Shenandoah at Columbia Furnace. They will go down Lost River, aiid may disturb the parties at Moorefield. I would send a force there, but it would be inhumanity to send aiiybody out now. I have scarcely ever felt such cold weather as we are having here. I am much alarmed about those that went out this morning. P. H. SHERII)AN, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Seneca, Pendleton County, W. Va., January 28, 1865. COMMANDER OF POST, New Creek: YOUR HONOR, SIR: We have an expectation of being overrun by the rebels if we can get no assistance from the Federal forces. Jinbodens command is on the South Branch within twelve miles of here, and some closer, taking and destroying everything they get in reach of such as property and provision, and, if possible, we would like to have some assistance from some department, for it is impossible for us to with- stand the forces that we now have to contend against. Sergt. John H. Miller is going to New Creek after some ammunition we have there. You will let him have as much as he and his squad can bring. Yours, with respect, ISAAC P. BOGGS, Clerk for Capt. John Boggs, Commanding State Troops Page 286 286 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. [Indorsernent.] HEADQUARTRRS SECOND BRIt~ADE, SECOND DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGiNIA, New Creek, TV. Va., January 30, 1865. Respectfully referred to Brevet Major-General Kelley. J. A. J. LIGIITBUIRN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, No. 24. 5 New York City, January 28, 1865. 1. Pursuant to instructions from the Commissary-General of Prison- ers, the enlisted men of the rebel prisoners of war (about 850 in number) who arrive(1 on the steamer Dc Molay will be sent, with their guard, to Elmira, N. Y., and there turned over to Commanding officer of prison camp at that place. The three commissioned officers, prisoners of war on board the De Molay, will be sent to Fort Columbus, New York Har- bor. The following officers will accompany the prisoners, having charge of the guard and the prisoners: Maj. F. W. Prince, Sixteenth New York Heavy Artillery, in charge; Capt. I. S. Green, Sixteenth New York Heavy Artillery; Lient. J. M. Lattimore, Sixteenth New York Heiivy Artillery; Lient. W. L. Lanning, Sixteenth New York Heavy Artillery; and guaid of 153 men. After turning over the prisoners the officers and guard will return to New York City and obey such other orders as they may have received. Quartermasters department will tarnish transl)ortation. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Dix: D. T. VAN BUJIEN, Assistant Adjutant- General. JANUARY 29, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Deserter from Twenty-third South Carolina, Wall aces brigade, John- sons division, came to our lines about 11.30 oclock last evening. He states that he was in Petersburg day before yesterday and was told by a man there, who Sai(l he had a son in Mahones division, that it (Mahones division) had gone to Weldon the day before (Thursday evening); that they marched. Trains commenced running regularly on the Danville railroad. JNO. C. BABCOCK. JANUARY 29, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: We have ~, ct from Richmond tIm this mornino- dire , e following: Gold selling to-day (the 28th) at forty-five for one. Government has thrown nearly $4000,000 of paper into the market. No news. Idle rumors of Blairs mis- sion. Papers of yesterday say that a report has been received from Petersburg that a Yankee column of from 6,000 to 10,000 meninfantry, cavalry, and artillery was advancing np the Chowan River from Colerain, a tishery on that strean~, in the direction of Weldon. The object of the Yankees nadothtedly is to strike Weldon Page 287 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 287 and destroy communication south of that point. General Breckinridge is in Rich- mond, and it is very generally reported has been tendered the appointment of Secre- tary of War. Four million of treasury notes have been received at department, to pay off soldiers of Lees army. There has as yet been no official appointment of General Lee to the command of all the armies. Rossers cavalry are said to have a slight skirmish with Sheridans men, a raiding party, last Monday near Edenburg, which was driven back beyond Woodstock. Deserters report, in addition to what we already know in regar(l to the movements contemplated with the rebel gnu-boats, that a detail from Terrys brigade of about 5U0 men was made on Sunday night. They at that time supposed the gun-boats would come down the river. Part of this force was to cross in boats to Farrars Island, from near llowletts house, and proceed to our obstructions and remove them, whilst the other party was to march to Crows Nest and spike a large gun there, a 100-pounder, the only gun they say their boats are afraid of. After proceeding a short distance our pickets fired upon them, and the men retnsed to advance farther. General Pickett was there him- self nrging them forward, but they refused and returned to their for- mer position. These deserters say that Fort Darling is manned by men from the gun-boats. The Virginia has gone to Richmond for repairs. She lost two men killed and eight wounded by the explosion of one of our shells in her forward port-hole. Her smoke stack was also carried away. N torpedo-boat was run down in the James River by the rebel flag of-truc6 boat on Thursday night, and one officer drowned. On the morning of the 24th Fields division, of Longstreets corps, got nuder arin~ and was marched a short distance on the l~arbytown road, about a mile. The men supposed they were to march toward the James River. They halted, stacked arms, and after remaining there a few hours, returned to their former position. PAUL A. OLIVER. JANUARY 29, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: A telegram from City Point, dated 29th instant, 9.30 a. in., states: We have information from Richmond direct. No news. Do not credit the report of Mahones division having moved. Have aothing to corroborate it. P. A. OLIVER. On a re-examination of deserters this a. in. sufficient evidence has been I)roduccd, in connection with the statement of the Twenty-third South Carolina man received last night, to show that Mahones division entire moved down the Boydton plank road on Wednesday or Thursday last (prGbably Thursday) for a point unknown, though sup- posed to Weldon, where it was reported a raid was being made by our forces in that vicinity; also, that Gordons division moved from near Burgess Mills up the Boydton plank road to Mahones old camps and occupied them. Inforniant, of the Fifth Lousiana, states that his brigade broke up quarters previously occnpied by a Mississippi bri- gade (probably Harris). The news from Gordons division received yesterday made no such statement as they have made this a. in., and reported all quiet, and no changes. It frequently occurs that men will deny having any information to avoid a long and tedious examina- tion, especially after having traveled a long distance in the cold and undergoing several previous examinations. J. C. BABCOCK Page 288 288 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, January 29, 18G5. (Received 1.55 p. in.) General RUCKER: The Webster left here for Annapolis at 10 a. m. There are com- plaints that the railroad trains are insufficient and horribly slow and irregular. Can you not run a traiii direct between Washington and Annapolis dnring this cold weather ~ Please cause the City Point and other vessels to be liberated from the Potomac as soou as possible. We are nearly out of coal. I had supposed General Thomas would have caused a plenty to be sent here long ago, but now the coal vessels are frozen in on the Delaware. The weather is very windy. At 12 m. to-day thermometer at 380. Considerable thin ice on the river. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General a~td Chief Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, January 29, 186510.40 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Company C, Fourth New York Artillery, moved up from the Ninth Corps line with six Coehorn mortars and are in readiness to go into Fort Fisher. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, ]Jlajor- General. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. The undersigned resumes comman d of the division. NELSON A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. Bvt. Maj. JonN N. CRAIG, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Artillery Headquarters, Army of the Potomac: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the batteries of this com- mand occupy the following positions on this date, viz: Battery. Commanding officer. Guns. Position. C and I, 5th U. S. Artillery. First Lieut. F. P. Clark. 11th New York Battery... First Lieut. George w. Davey. M, 1st New Rampshire Capt. G. K. Dakin Four 3-inch Artillery. B, 1st iNewJersey Artillery Capt. A, J.Clark Four light 12-pounders.... Do do Two light 12-pounders .... K, 4th U. S. Artillery Capt. John W. Iloder... Four light 12-ponuders.... 10th MassachusettsBattery Bvt. Maj. 4.11. Sleeper.. Two 3-inch Do do do Do J.~....do do Four light 12.pounders. .. Fort Fisher. Six 3-inch Fort Welch. Fort Gregg. Fort Snmpson. In reserve. Fort Cummings. Fort Finery. Fort Siehert. In reserve. Page 289 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. Battery. Commanding officer. Guns. Position. 12th New York Battery.... Capt. C. A. Clark Four light 12-pounders... Fort Clarke. B, 1st Rhode Island Artil- Second Lieut. W. B. Six light 12-pounders In reserve. lery. Westcott. C, 4th NewYork Artillery. First Lieut.RKennedy. Six Coehorn mortars Notyctin position. L, 4th New York Artillery. Second Lient. F. Soy. do Train guards. mour. NINTH CORPS LINE. G, 1st New York Artillery Second Lieut. W. H. Six light 12-pounders Stringer. F, 1st Pennsylvania Artil First Lient. John F. Six I-inch lery Campbell. 3d New Jersey Battery Bvt. Maj. C. Woerner do 6th Maine Battery Capt. W. H. Rogers Six light 12-pounders First Lieut. J. T. Wyatt, Eleventh New York Battery, mustered out by expiration of term of service; Byt. Capt. John W. Ro~ler, Fonrth U. S. Artillery, has returned from leave of absence and assumed coin- mand of Battery K; First Lieut.C.A.Clark, inspector, has been mustered as captain Twelfth New York Battery, and has assumed command; Bvt. lVJaj. T. Fred. Brown, First Rhode Island Artillery, absent on leave for fifteen days; Second Lient. William B. Westcott, in command; Sergt. James A. Manning, Eleventh New York Battery, mustered as first lieu- teiiant Second Lient. IR. Metcalf, Fifth U. S. Artillery, heretofore drop- ped as missing in action, heard from and taken up as a prisoner of war. Respectfully submitted. JNO. G. HAZARD, Brevet Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. (Received 10.35 a. in.) Lieut. Col. S. F. BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that ndthing of importance has transpired on the lilles of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. 0-EG. W. G-ETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 29, 18651 .25 p.m. Brigadier-General WILECOX, Ninth Ar my Corps: Have you any reports in reference to the firing ~ Is it on your front, and what portion f At this distance it appears quite severe and sharp firing. JIXO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. (Received 1.45 p. in.) Major-General PARKE, Commanding: Have received no reports of the firing. It is on the right of my line, and not heavier than often occurs there. I will report particulars when ieceived. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brevet Major- General. 19 R RYOL XLVI, pr II ChAP. LVIII.] 28 Page 290 290 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. (iReceived 2.25 p. in.) Major-General PARKE, Commanding: Signal officer reports the firing commenced by Battery 5, replied to by Goose Neck, anti shared by others in the vicinity. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. (Received 3.10 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB: Two deserters from the enemy. One of our men missing from our lines; snpposed to have deserted from Twenty-ninth Massachusetts to the rebels. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. (Received 6.20 p. in.) Byt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of & aff, Army of the Potomac: I learn unofficially that a soldier deserted to the enemy across the river on the ice at daylight this morning, belonging to First Connecti- cut Artillery. He probably carried information of our placing a heavy gun in MeGilvery last light. Much of the enemys firing this morn- ing was directed at that fort. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS N1NTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 1865. (Received 3.30 p. m.~ Major-General PARKE, Commanding:. Alexander H. Stephens, IL M. T. Hunter, and J. A. Campbell desire to cross my lines, in accordance with an understanding claimed to exist with Lieutenant-General Grant, on their way to Washington as peace commissioners. Shall they be admitted l They desire an early answer, and to come through immediately; would like to reach City Point to-night. If they cannot do this they would like to come through at 10 oclock to-morrow morning. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brevet ]tiliaj6r- (ieneral.* Referred by Parke to Ord 4 p. in., and by Ord to Stanton 6.30 p. in. See Stantons reply 10 P. in., p. 292 Page 291 CHAP. LYIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 291 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 29, 18654 p. m. Major-General WILECOX; Commanding Ninth Corps: Are the gentlemen named in your dispatch at your picket-line, or lias this letter been sent in under flag of truce ~ JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPs, January 29, 1865. (Received 4.10 p. in.) Major-General PARKE: The message is verbal, and brought by Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch to the picket-line. Was received by Colonel Bintliff. The commission- ers themselves are at Petersburg. Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch calls himself assistant commissioner of exchange. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General. (Copy sent- Major-General Ord at 4.45 p. in.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Major-General WILLCOX, January 29, 18654.25 p. m. Commanding Ninth Corps: General Parke desires you to reply to Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch, in case he is waiting, that an answer will be forwarded to him by you as soon as it shall be received, and in the same manner as adopted by him in approaching our lines. ALEX. S. WEBB Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 29, 18655.35 p. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB: I have communicated with the enemy, and their wish is, in case the reply does not come before sundown t morning. hat it be delivered to-morrow 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Lieut. Col. P. N. LYDIG, January 29, 1865. Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: SIR: 1 have the honor to report that the Appomattox River is open in the channel the length of our picket-line. That portion which wa Page 292 292 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. Lviii. frozen over this morning is now clear. The picket-posts have beeim doubled along that front, and they have received orders to be extremely vigilant. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. B. MoLAUGHLEN, Brevet Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CoRPS, January 29, 1865. Col. BYRON M. CIJTc5HEoN, Commanding Second Brigade: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that at such places on the river as the ice is sufficiently strong to bear men, you will double your picket-line; also that you will instruct your pickets to be extremely vigilant during the night. The staff officer of the day will report the condition of the ice on the river within an hour. I am, colonel, very res~)ectfully, RORT. A. HUTCHINS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 29, 186510 p. m. Major-General ORD: This Department has no knowledge of any understanding by General Grant to allow any persons to come within his lines as commissioner& of any sort. You will therefore allow no one to come into your lines under such character or profession until you receive the ~ instructions, to whom your telegram will be submitted for his direc tions. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 29, 18654.15 p. m. Major-General ORD, Commanding Army of the James: The following dispatch is forwarded to you for your action.* Since I have no knowledge of General Grant having had any under standing of this kind, I refer the matter to you as the ranking offices present in the two armies. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 29, 18657.15 p. m. Major-General PARKE: Have referred your telegram up. Tell them to come to-morrow at 10 it is too late to-night. E. 0. C. ORD, ~11Jajor- General. * See Wilicox to Parke (received 3.30 ~. in.), P. 290 Page 293 CHAP. LVIJI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 293 HnQns. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, Yx., ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 29, 1565. Brig. Gen. J. W. TURNER, Chief of Staff, Department of Virginia: ~GENERAL: i[ have the honor to report that the Twenty-third Regiment Illinois Volunteers, 187 strong, have reported to inc this a. in. The com- pany of the Thirteenth New Hampshire, 35 strong, having been taken away, and Company A, Second Pennsylvania Artillery, 139 strong, about to start for Fort Fisher, leaves me really no stronger than I was previous to this regiment reporting. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. FEItRERO, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 29, 18656 p. m. Brig. Gen. J. W TURNER, - Chief of Staff: Captain Stoops, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, has just returned from a reconnaissance to Riddells Shop, returning by Malvern Hill and Strawberry Plains. He saw nothing, and the roads do not indicate any travel whatever. I have another scout out on the Charles City road toward Whites Tavern, but I do not anticipate that it will bring auy information. I propose to send Colonel Evans with his brigade out the Long Bridge road, to go as far as the Chickahominy and return, unless he should strike the trail of the enemys troops moving east toward Williamsburg, in which case I will instruct him to follow them up. Colonel Evans will move at daylight in the morning. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, January 29, 18657.30 p. m. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: Captain Paul, Fifth Pennsylvania, sent out by Colonel West, has returned. Colonel West reports that the captain went as far as Whites Tavern and saw nothing. The enemy had a scout of about sixty men, mounted and dismounted, out on the Charles City road during the day, that returned. Captain Paul heard the usual sounds of camp music, chopping wood, singing, & c., but no evidence of any movement. He remained near the Charles City road for three-quarters of an hour and then returned. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General Page 294 294 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HDQRS. CAVALRY 1)IvIsIoN, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 29, 1865. Colonel SPEAR: The general commanding division directs that you send out a scout- ing party to the Charles City road. You will (lirect the officer in corn mand of the party to report in person to the general commanding division for orders to return by Strawberry Plains, & c. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 29, 1865. Colonel WEST: The general commanding division directs that you send over a scout- ing party to the Charles City road, and that you direct the officer in command of the party to report promptly any movement of the enemy that he may discover, and that you report the same to these head- quarters. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant A~jutant- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIViSIoN, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 29, 1865. Colonel WEST: By direction of General Kantz, commanding division, I have the honor to inform you that Colonel Evans, commanding Third Brigade of Cavalry Division, will move out at daylight to-morrow morning with his command by the Long Bridge road. The general command- ing directs that you send a party early to-morrow morning to watch the Charles City road, and to report any moVement that may take place on that road during the day. Respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHJPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 29, 1865. Colonel EVANS: The general commanding the division, directs that you will proceed with the available portion of your command early to-morrow morning by the Long Bridge road as far as the Chickahomniny with a view to ascertain if any considerable portion of the enemy has moved east- ward toward Williamsburg. Should any column not exceeding your own force have moved out in this direction you will follow it up and endeavor to capture or defeat it, and return as soon as practicable to this command again. Should there be no evidence of any movement eastward of the enemy you will return to your present camp and repor Page 295 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 295 the result of your expedition. You will procure what information you can of the enemy and the condition of the crossings of the Chicka- hominy. You will take the usual supply of rations and forage. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. WINCHESTER, VA., January 29, 1865. Hon. E~wIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The following dispatch just received from Loudoun County, where Mr. Foote now is. I have declined to receive any communication from Mr. Foote on the subject of his mission: LOVETTSVILLE, January 29, 1865. Brevet Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: Would it be improper or advisable to inform Major-General Sheridan by telegraph of the special nature of the proposition Mr. Foote desires to make to the authorities of Washington, and also the parties for whom he is authorized to speak 6? Mr. Foote insists that if this should be done it would have some influence on his detention. THOS. C. DEVIN, Brigadier-General P.11. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, January 29, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN: If Mr. Foote desires to transmit any communication to any person at Washington he may place it under seal, and deliver it to any officer of your staff whom you may designate, to be delivered according to its address at Washington, Mr. Foote remaining in custody where he now is until further orders from the President, but holding no communica- tion with any one upon his business. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, 1). C., January 28 [29], 186512.30 a. rn. JOHN W. GARRETT, Esq., Baltimore: I have received a letter from the Secretary of the Treasuiy urging that something be done to keep the gas-works supplied with coal. There is much alarm lest the light be stopped for want of coal. Please prevent this, if possible, and, if necessary, cilt off all but military traims portation. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 296 29~ N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII CAMDEN STATION, Baltimore, Md., January 29~ 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I have given the most thorough orders, throwing aside much urgent and important business, to suppiy the necessities of the Gas Company of Washington. I am confident we can sncceed, in addition to our military transportation, in accomplishing the desired object, l)rovided onr military friends npon the line will protect the company from raids, which greatly delay and derange transportation. We are succeeding with the present great movements and deliveries of army supplies, although from the extreme severity of the weather many of our train- men have been disabled by frozen hands and feet, and we have much difficulty in supplying their places with skilled operatives. Can you aid ns in the emergency by ordering a detail of fifty men, to be selected by onr officers from troops in the vicinity of the road, for two months, and to be paid by ns? We can probably obtain this number of our old and skilled employ~s now in the Army, who will greatly assist in pro- moting the interest of the Government and in meeting all its require- ments. J. W. GARRETT, President. HDQRS. FIRST SEPARATE BRIG., DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, Fairfax Court-House, Va., January 29, 18656 p. m. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff, Department of Washington: Reports just received from the several stations on the line state all quiet since last report. The scouting detachment to Leesburg has returned. None of the enemy found there. Abont twenty-five of Whites men were there three days ago. A written report will be for- warded to-morrow. The battalion of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry sent to Dumfries and recalled has jnst returned. No enemy seen. Report will be forwarded to-morrow. WM. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. I observed to-day that the telegraph line from Alexandria to Fairfax Station needs a general examination for repairs. W.G. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., January 29, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland, Md.: Refugees from Highland County arrived at Bnckhannon to.day; report Colonel Arnett with 700 men at Ilightown, where he arrived last Tuesday. Imbodens command on South Fork, in Pendleton County, and Rosser still at Warm Springs. One of the refugees heard a rebel soldier say he thought it was the intention to concentrate their forces and move in this direction. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade Page 297 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 297 PETERSBURG, VA., Jancatry 30, 1865. Lent. Gen. U. S. GRANT: SIR: We desire to pass your lines under safe conduct and to pro- ceed to Washington to hold a conference with President Lincoln upon the subject of the existing war, and with a view of ascertaining upon what terms it may be terminated, iii pursuance of the course indicated by him in his letter to Mr. F. P. Blair of January 18, 1865, of which we presume you have a copy; and if not, we wish to see you in person, if convenient, and to confer with you npon the subject. Yours, very respectfully, ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS. J. A. CAMPBELL. R. M. T. HUNTER. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 30, 18657.30 a. in. Major-General ORD, Commanding, {e.: As your dispatch stands, it might be interpreted to direct that the three commissioners should conie in at 10 oclock. Do y@u mean that they shall come in, or shall they await action from Washington ~ JINO. G. PARKE, Major- General. CITY POINT, January 30, 1865. Major-General PARKE: An answer to the flag-of truce communication received this day from the enemy will be sent to you to-morrow, probably about noon. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 30, 186510.30 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: in the present state of the roads and of their own affairs the rebels may attempt something on our rear or flank. Keep your cavalry on the alert; scouts and small parties well out; your reserve of artillery, infantry, and cavalry prepared to move in any direction; trains and depots should not be exposed, and extra watch kept on every move- ment of the enemy; plenty of ammunition handy. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 1865. (Received 12.20 p. ra.) Major-General PARKE: The following just received; you will be guided by it.* E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. * See Stanton to Orif, 10.30 a. in., p. 302 Page 298 298 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rCHAP. Lviii. QUARTERMASTER- GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, January 30, 1865. Brig. Gen. R. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, Armies before Richmond, City Point, Va.: Dispatch of this date received. On my return from Savannah I find Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, and Alexandria closed by ice, and these late movements of troops on an extensive scale, for which no previous notice was given, have occupied all the ocean steam -vessels of the country, to the temporary interruption of most private lines. These movements have also exhausted the accumulated stock of coal at Fort Monroe, City Point, and Annapolis, while the ice blockade of Philadel- phia has prevented the shipment of the usual current supply. General Thomas informs me that coal has already been ordered to Fortress Mon- roe from New York. The attempt to open the port of Baltimore, and to send coal both by water and by rail from that point to Annapolis, will be made, and, if successful, this will enable the steamers now at Fort Monroe to start from Annapolis with troops. When I left here early in January I understood that the stock at Fort Monroe and at Washing- ton and Alexandria was large and sufficient for all anticipated wants. I trust that the present difficulty will not continue long. There is hope that the Delaware will be opened shortly, and the present indications are- that the rotomac will soon be opened again. It is of great impor- tance that all steamers transporting troops or supplies should be unloaded as rapidly as possible and returned for further use. The sup- ply, & c., for Shermans army at Savannah has engaged many ocean steamers and a large fleet of sailing vessels. The steamers as they return are drawn off for coastwise expeditions, of which you doubtless have knowledge. Even in New York it has at times lately been impos- sible to coal in steamers ordered to sea, iii consequence of heavy ice in the harbor. If there has been defective supply I incline to think it has been due to want of notice of movements on a great scale, which coula no more be anticipated ly the Quartermasters Department than by those who comm and the troops. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. Brevet Major- General. [Indorsement.] OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, City Point, Va., February 2, 1865. Respectfully referred to General Rawlins, chief of staff; for the information of the lieutenant-general comnmaiiiding the Armies of the United States. The letter is in reply to my dispatch calling for transports, and reporting great scarcity of coal. Colonel Biggs informs me that he could have had coal enough delivered here before the cold weather had the orders of General Thomas, then Acting Quartermaster-General, authorized him so to do. I am satisfied that there never was any good reason for the scarcity of either forage or coal, though I do not charge General Meigs with the responsibility. The supply will doubtless be ample and constant hereafter, so soon as the Delaware and Potomac are free of ice. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General, Chief Quartermaster Page 299 CHAP. LVIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 299 JANUARY 30, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: * * * * * * Information of the moveineiit of Maliones division last Wednesday fully corroborated, with additional particulars that they took oniy two days rations and left back all baggage and camp furniture. Generally understood in camp that they had gone on a raid and would shortly return. Deserters from Gordons division corroborate iiiforination of yesterdaythat his division has moved up the Boydton plank road and is now occupying Mahones old camps. JNO. C. BABCOCK. JANUARY 30, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Deserters this morning report that it was rumored Mahones division had left for Wilmington on Wednesday. The sick from the Chimborazo, Camp Jackson, and Camp Winder hospitals had been removed and the hospitals were being whitewashed. Quartermasters stores, such as clothing, boots, and shoes, had also been moved on the Danville road. There is much disaffection among the troops of Terrys brigade, and it is said that the officers in Picketts division are holding meetings and passing resolutions whether they shall go back into the Union, adopting the terms of the United States Government or continue to fight. The deserters say that these meetings are presided over by the colonels of regiments, resolutions are offered, and the men invited to give their votes, which is done for effect. The men are afraid to get up and declare their honest intentions, and the consequence is that it is taken for graiited and declared by the officers that they are in favor of fight- ing it out. These resolutions are paraded in the papers for effect and to create a good state of feeling. Such a meeting was held the other day by Terrys brigade in a large house near their lines. * * * * * * * PAUL A. OLIVER. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 30, 18656.40 p. m. JOUN W. GARRETT, Baltimore: Please have a train at Annapolis before 3 ~ to.nmorrow morning to bring Mr. Fox and General Schofield direct through to Washington. They expect to reach Annapolis at 3 oclock in the morning on the Colyer, which left Fortress Monroe at 4 oclock this evening. EDWIN M. STANTON, & cretary of ldTar SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 47. - Washington, January 30, 1865. * * * * * * * 19. Col. George D. Ituggles, additional aide-de-camp and assistant adjutant-general, U. S. Army, will report in person without delay to the commanding general Army of the Potomac for assignment to duty. * * * * * * * Page 300 300 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. 32. Maj. G. H. Hooker, assistant adjutant-general of volunteers, is hereby assigned to duty at headquarters Middle Departuient, and will report in person without delay accordingly. * * * * * * * 52. By direction of the President, Bvt. Brig. Gen. W. W. Morris, U. S. Army, is assigned to the command of the Middle Department dur- ing the temporary absence of Maj. Gen. L. Wallace. By order of the Secretary of War: B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 30, 186510.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Four deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night. A. A. HUMPHREYS, illajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 30, 186511.55 a. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: A deserter from the Thirteenth Georgia, Evans brigade, states that 1~odes old division (Battle commanding) is also near Petersburg; that it came down from the Valley a short time after the other divisions. This is different from the information I have had, though it may not be to you. I have questioned the man closely. There were two deserters from this corps to the enemy last nightone from the First Division and one from the Second Division. A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 1865. (IReceived iO.35 a. in.) Lient. Col. S. F. BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 30, 1865~-.---G.30 p m. Maj. Gen. H. G. WRIGHT: (Care War Department, Washington.) Your leave is extended ten days. ALEX. S. WEBB Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 301 CHAP. LVIII.] 301 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 1865. Major-General PARKE: I fully share what I know must be your regret at the delay concern- ing the commissioners. If the rebel government is seeking capital this delay will be a point in their favor. If the claim be true that General Grant had already consented to let them pass there can be little doubt but what they will be received, and after a reasonable time has passed would it not be well to admit and detaii them here until the authority arrives for forwarding them on l 0. B. WILLOOX, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 30, 18659.05 a. in. Maj. Gen. 0. B. WILLCox: No definite reply has yet been received to the application of yester- (lay. Should the enemy communicate with you at 10 this a. in., as I judge he may do, you will please inform him that you have as yet received no reply, bnt will communicate with him as soon as you do. Then let all commupication cease. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. IIEADQUA~TERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 186511.40 a. in. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of iStaff, Army of the Potomac: The following communication took place by flag of truce about 10 this morning: Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch, assistant agent of exchange, is ready to receive a reply from General Grant with reference to passing certain parties through the lines. To this Captain .Brackett, aide-de-camp on my staff, replied: In reply to Colonel Hatchs last communication, the general commanding the troops on this front directed me to state that he had not received any answer to his communication sent forward yesterday. The flag then requested that the answer might he sent over when received, and withdrew. 0.B. WILLC0X, Bre4vet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Maj. Gen. 0. B. WILLCOX, January 30, 1865. Commanding Corps: General Parke directs that you inform the three gentlemenMessrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbellthat by direction of the President a messenger will be dispatched to them at or near where they now are without unnecessary delay. I have the honor, & c., ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General, Chief of AS~taff Page 302 302 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD, AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. WAR DErPARTMENT7 Washington, D. C., January 30, 186510.30 a. m. Major-General ORD, Headquarters Army of the James: By direction of the President you are instructed to inform the three gentlemenMessrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbellthat a messenger will be dispatched to them at or near where they now are without unnecessary delay. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, January 30, 1865. Major-General ORD, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: The President desires that you will please procure for the bearer, Maj. Thomas T. Eckert, an interview with Messrs. Stepheiis, Hunter, and Campbell, and if on his return to you he requests it pass them through our lines to Fort Monroe, by such route and under such military precautions as you may deem prudent, giving them protection and comfortable quarters while there, and that you let none of this have any effect upon your military movements or plans. By order of the President: EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 18652.55 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Richmond Whig contains the following: WILMINGToN, January 28, 1865. A fire occured at ip. m. to-day in lot of coiton435 baleson the wharf in front of the custom-house. Nearly all of the cotton was consumed. The adjacent buildings were iiot damaged. A stiff northwesterly breeze prevails. The weather is very cold. Two car-loads of cotton were consumed this Inornino on the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad, four niiles from town. All quiet l)elow. FROM SO UTH CAROLINASHERMAN S MOVEMENT.NON-COMBATANTS ORDERED TO LEAVE AUGUSTA. MACON, January 28, 1865. Private advices from Savannah state that Sherman commenced his movement on South Carolina on the 17th instant with three columns, the main column moving toward Charleston, taking nearly all his transport tion; two other columns, in light marching order, moving by separate roads toward Branchville. General Hill has issued orders requiring non-combatants to leave Augusta. Upon the heel of the departure of our commissioners a rumor gained currency that bearers of dispatches had arrived in Richmond from both French and English govern- ments. We need hardly add that we could trace it to no authentic Source Page 303 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 303 The Sentinel of the 30th contains the following: Messrs. A. H. Stephens, R. M. T, Hunter, and John A. Campbell left Richmond yesterday morning on their way to Washington to confer with President Lincoln on the subject of putting an end to the war, it possible. The circumstances under which these gentlemen have departed on their mission are understood to be as fol- lows: Mr. F. P. Blair, having sought an unofficial and confidential interview with President Davis, departed for Washington with an assurance that our President would be willing at any time, without any obstacle of form, to send agents or com- ulissioners to Washington to confer about terms of peace, if informed in advance that said commissioners would be received. On Mr. Blairs second visit to Richmond he brought the consent of Mr. Lincoln to receive and confer with any agents, infor- mally sent, with a view to the restoration of peace. The three gentlemen who left yesterday were thereupon selected by the President, and they have gone without formal credentials, and merely as informal agents, to see whether it be possible to place a conference for peace on any basis which may serve for attempting so desira- ble a result. IX 0. C. ORD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 186510 a. m. General GIBBON: General Ord directs that you have your division trains inspected, part ticularly tire ammunition train and ammunition, with the view of seeing if everything is ready to move; to hold your command in readiness, while the roads are good, to commence operations at any time. lie also further directs that you be on the alert on your front. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to General lleckman.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 18654.45 p. m. General GIBBON, Twenty-fourth Army Corps: General lleckman reports the enemy on his front to be very active and moving about. General Ord directs that you have your reserves so as to be readily moved. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 18656 p. m. Brigadier-General TURNER Chief of Staff: - Major Embler, of my staff, has just come in from the line as far to the left as Fort Buruham. He could see no indication of a move in the enemys line. I sent him out as soon as I received your dispatch. JOHN GIBBOIN, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding Page 304 304 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 18G5. Brig. Gen. J. R. HAWLEY, Com~mandi~g First Division: The commanding general directs that you have all your reserves armed and ready to move at a moments notice. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, EDWARD MOALE, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. (Same to Brig. Gen. Charles Devens, commanding Third Division; Bvt. Brig. Gen. T. M. Harris, commanding independent Division; Maj. C. C. Abell, chief of artillery.) HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 18G5. I3rig. Gen. J. IR. HAWLEY, Commanding First Division: The commanding general directs that the reserves of your command need not be kept nuder arms any longer. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD MOALE, Cantain and Acting Assistant A~jutant- General. (Same to Brig. G-en. Charles Devens, commanding Third Division; Bvt. Brig. Gen. T. M. Harris, commanding Independent Division; Maj. C. C. Abel, chief of HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 18G5. ~Brig. Gen. J. H. HAWLEY2 Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you at once take steps to have the roads in your front examined, and report to these headqnarters the condition and location of the roads, their names, where they lead to, at what point they pass the line of intrenchmeiits, and everything else which may be of service in making a movement. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD MOALE, Captain, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, Aide-dc- Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Brig. Gen. Charles Devens, commanding Third Division, and Bvt. Brig. Gen. T. M. Harris,.commanding Independent Division.) HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 13G5. Brig. Gen. CHARLES DEVENS, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you cause the Provisional Brigade attached to your command to be in readiness to move to Jones Landing to-morrow morning, dependent npon the time of the transportation being in readiness for their embarkation. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD MOALE, Captasn and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 305 CHAP. LYIJI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 305 HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: The enemy are very active in my front, troops being relieved and moving in various (no definite) directions. I cannot determine whether they are strengthening or weakening their lines. We are on the alert. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, January 30, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: I unuerstand the steamer Haze is at Bermuda Hundred ready to take 300 men to Fort Fisher. Shall order 300 of the detachment of the Third Division down. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 186510.55 p. rn. Brigadier-General HECKMAN, Twenty-fifth Army Corps: Send the men of Paines division ~s fast as the quartermaster reports transportation ready. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, - January 30, 18654.45 p. m~ General FERRERO: General Ord directs that you keep a good lookout. rElic enemy are reported very active on our front. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 186511.15 a. m. General KAUTz: General Ord directs that you send a company of cavalry to report to General Carr at Fort Powhatan, James River. JNO. W. TURNER, Briqadier- General and Chief of Staff. 20 R RYOL XLVI, PT I Page 306 306 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. Lviii. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 30, 1865. Colonel SPEAR: The general commanding Cavalry Division directs that you send a party to Hiddells Shop, to remain there until evening and hold the cross-roads and give information of any movement of the enemy. Should Colonel Evans return before evening the party can retnrn with him. Fifty or sixty men will be sufficient. Colonel West has been directed to watch the Charles City road toward Whites Tavern. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, Captain and A ssistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 186510.35 p. m. General J. B. CARR, Wilsons Wharf: General Ord directs that you have your command at Wilsons Wharf and Fort Powhatan on the alert for the enemy. Have your wagon- trains inspected and your ammunition overhauled, and see if everything is in readiness to move if required. ~ ~-. TURNER. Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff NORFOLK, VA., January 30, 1865. Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Headquarters Department: Commodore Lanman, U. S. S. Minnesota, has requested me to send troops to aid in an expedition to Pagan Creek, near Smithfield. I sent General Vogdes to confer with him. General Vogdes has sent a small cavalry force to reconnoiter. At present the ice will prevent a boat expedition. In case that General Vogdes and Commodore Lanman should think the expedition advisable, shall I send a foree~ Respectfully, GEG. F. SH EPLEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 30, 18658.10 p. m. Brigadier-General SHEPLEY, Norfolk: General Ord directs that you send the force alluded to in your dispatch of this date, if required. JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff Page 307 CHAP. Lviii.] 307 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. FORT MAGRUDER, January 30, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. W TURNER, Chief of Staff: I have been on the alert ever since your telegram. Have largely re-enforced my picket for the last two nights. Have seen Lothing of the enemy, and can hear nothing of them. I think they are after deserters, who come down in very large numbers. J. J. MORRISON, Colonel Sixteenth New York Vol. Artillery, Comdg. Post. FORT MONROE, January 30, 1865. (Received 4.50 p. in.) Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Nary: Just arrived from Fort Fisher an(l Beanfort, N. C. All quiet. Leave here at 5 for Annapolis. Will be in Washington in the forenoon. G. V. FOX, lssistant Secretary. SPECIAL EADQUARTERS U. S FORCES ORDERS H . No. 18. Fort Fisher, N. C., January 30, 1865. I. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. Ames, coniinanding Second Division, Twenty- fourth Army Corps, will detail from his command one regiment of abont 300 men for duty, who will encamp at or near Battery Buchanan and report to Col. George S. Dodge, chief quartermaster, for fatigue duty, furnishing such details for this purpose as he may from time to time require. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TERRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. WINCHESTER, January 30, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Would it be proper to let me know where General Grovers division is0? General Birge and several other officers have applied to me to know where to join their commands. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, VA., January 30, 1865. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: General Wallace says that he is ready to go on certain secret service, by directiou of the War Department, and proposes that General McCook be left in charge. I aiu not entirely satisfied to leave McCoo~ Page 308 308 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. in charge. baltimore is the only place that gives me any trouble, principally from the internal relations of the rebels of this Valley with the rebels of Baltimore. I have no one to put in charge there. Can you send some one~ P. II. SHERIDAN, ]Jfajor- General. WASHINGTON, 1). C., January 30~ 18653.40 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.: Bvt. Brig. Gen. W. W. Morris will be assigned to the command of the Middle Department. As Major-General McCook is of a higher grade it is therefore necessary that you relieve him from duty in that department. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HIJQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., January 30, 1865. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff, & e.: I wish respectfully to inqnire if prisoners of war released upon tak- ing the amnesty oath are to be considered as deserters from the enemy and entitled to transportation as provided for iii General Grants order ~ Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. [First indorst~ment.] JANUARY 30,1865. They are to be considered as deserters from the enemy. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Stafi. 5econd iliJorsement.] IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, January 30, 1865. Respectfully referred to Col. T. Ingraham for his information and guidance. By command of Major-General Augur: J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 30, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Commanding Department of West Virginia: I am in receipt of your telegram. If you anticipate a raid on Buck- hannon or Bnlltown I think it best to move some of the troops that you have at Cumberland to those places, or to the line of the railroa Page 309 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 309 at Clarksburg or other points. To send a brigade of zavalry to operate in the mountains is to send it to destruction. The cavalry which I sent to capture the enemys pickets at Columbia Furnace succeeded in doing so, but a good many of the men came back frost-bitteu. They found the mountain roads all ice. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cumberland Md Major-General SHERIDAN, , ., January 30, 1865. Winchester, Va.: Telegram received. I do not fear for the posts themselves at Clarks- burg, Weston, & c., but cavalry can come in aud make a raid and get out again, and infantry can do nothing with them, while if we have cavalry there we can break up their organization and prevent them from making raids. If I send any troops from here to these points in anticipation of a raid I shall not have enough to operate in case we should be attacked at any other point. GEORGE CROOK, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND DIV., DEPT. OF W. VA., New (reek, W. Va., January 30, 1865. Capt. T. MELVIN, Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I have the honor to inclose communication from Captain Boggs~ commanding State troops. I have uo doubt that Gilmor and Imboden will operate in that section as soon as the weather breaks, as I under- stand he has been sent to Moorefield to take command of MeNeills, Woodsons, and other detached companies. I should like to use the Twenty-second Pennsylvania Cavalry to operate against him, and would therefore earnestly request that I have a regiment of infantry sent here to enable me to do so. As it is, should I send the Twenty- second away, I should be left without any troops, except the two bat- teries, which would be left without support. I hope this request will meet the generals approval. Yeiy respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. J. LIGHTBURN, Brigadier- General Commanding Second Brigade. [Indorsement.] HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cumberland, Aid., January 31, 1865. Respectfully forwarded to department headquarters for the informa- tion of the general cominandiu~. The request of l3rioadier-Geiieral Lightburn for an additional regi- ment of infantry to serve at New Creek is approved, bat I am unable to send it to that point without totally exposing other portions of this, commanu. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- Gener 1 Page 310 310 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. BALTIMORE, January 30, 186510.50 a. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: I am ordered West on special duty by General Grant, to be absent a month, if not longer. If you are willing I will leave General McCook in charge to do my work. The offices of Colonel Woolley, my provost- marshal, are very important. Secretary Stanton consents to his accom- panying me, and if you will do so I will be greatly obliged. Captain Wiegel, for a long time assistant provost-marshal, is posted and fully equal to the office. I will be ready to go as soon as I hear from you. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General. BALTIMORE, January 30, 1865. Brevet Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Winchester, Va.: Has General Sheridan seen my telegram of this date ~ It is impor- tant to me to get a reply. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General. WINCHESTER, January 30, 1865. Maj. Gen. L. WALLACE, Commanding, Baltimore: General Sheridan received your dispatch. An answer will be sent you as soon as practicable. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. WINCHESTER~ January 30, 1865. Major-General WALLACF~, Commanding, Baltimore: You are hereby authorized to take Colonel Woolley with you. By order of Major General Sheridan: J. W. FORSYTH, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. GENERAL ORDERS HD QRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CoRPS, No. 18. ) Baltimore, Md., January 30, 1865. The Freedmans Bureau, established in this city by virtue of General Orders, No. 112, headquarters Middle Department, November 9, 1864, is hereby abolished. All papers and correspondence relating to said bureau have been referred to a legislative committee appointed by the House of Representatives of the State of Maryland. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 311 CHAP. LYIH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 311 CITY PoINT~ VA., January 30, 1865. - (Received 11.40 a. in.) Brig. Gen. D. C. MCCALLUM: Your dispatch was received. General Grant is obliged for your promptness. 1-Je says wharves are greatly needed at Fort Fisher immediately. This work is probably more pressing than the railroad. Be pleased to hasten forward your construction parties, and give such orders as will enable the commanding general to work then~ at Fort Fisher or on the New Berne and Kin ston railroad at both or either place. I repeat that the work is necessary at once. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General and Chief Quartermaster. CITY PoINT, January 31, 186510 a. m. (Received 12.30 p. in.) President A. LINCOLN, Washington, D. C.: The following communication was received here last evening.* I haVe sent directions to receive these gentlemen, and expect to have them at my quarters this evening awaiting your instructions. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, January 31, 18651.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your dis- patch. Detain the gentlemen in comfortable quarters until he arrives, and then act upon the message he brings as far as applicable, it hav- ing been made up to pass through General Ords hands, and when the gentlemen were supposed to be beyond our hues. A. LINCOLN. CITY POINT, VA., Januarq 31, 18657 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington: Please inform General Schofield that since my absence ~ division, about 5,000 strong, has gone south. My opinion is, however, they will not stop at Wilmington. It is important that Schofield should move without delay. ~. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 18657.30 p. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: On my arrival here this morning I received a letter from Messrs~ Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell, which I immediately telegraphed * S * Stephens, Campbell, anti Hunter to Grant, p. 297 Page 312 312 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIL the contents of to the President, and sent at the same tiiue a staff officer to receive the gentlemen and conduct them to my quarters to await the action of the President. The gentlemen have arrived, and since their arrival I have been put in possession of the telegraphic cor- respondence which had been going on for two days previous. Had I known of this correspondence in time these gentlemen would not have been received within our lines. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General~ JANUARY 31, 1865. Hon. ALEX. H. STEPHENS, Hon. J. A. CAMPBELL, Hon. li. M. T. HUNTER: GENTLEMEN: Your communication of yesterday, requesting an inter. view with myself and a safe conduct to Washington and return, is received. I will instruct the commanding officer of the forces near Petersburg to receive you, notifying you at whaf~ part of the line and the time when and where conveyance will be ready for you. Your letter to me has been telegraphed to Washington for instruc- tions. I have no doubt but that before you arrive at my headquarters an answer will be received directing me to comply with your request. Should a different reply be received I promise you a safe and immediate return within your own lines. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 186511.30 a. m. (Received 1.20 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Please constitute North Carolina a ciepartment for present pnrposes, Major-General Schofield in comman(l, subject to Shermans orders. It is impossible for Foster to give orders from Hilton Head as well as I can from here. I will give General Schofield all his orders and instructions until Sherman gets in reach of him. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASIIINc~TON, January 31, 18655.30 p. mu. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The Department of North Carolina, with Schofield in command, has been ordered as you requested. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 313 CHAP. LYHI.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 313 NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., January 31, 1865. Lieut. Gem U. S. GRANT, Head quarters Armies of the United States, City Point, Va,: SIR: The Department has received your letter of the 24th instant, calling attention to the rel)el ram building in Itoanoke River, and sug~ gesting measures to provide against disaster from it, and has trans- mitted a copy of it to Rear-Admiral Porter. Very respectfully, & c., GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of Navy. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 31, 18G5340 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The order placing Pope in general command in the West, and put- ting Kansas under General Dodge, has just been issued and telegraphed to General Pope. The Legislature of Kansas has passed resolutions asking that more troops be sent to that State. They will be sent to you by mail. Troops froiu the West arrive slowly. General Meaghers division is ordered to embark at Annapolis. It will be slow work, as the transp6rts must be coaled and provisioned by lighters. The weather is rapidly moderating, and an effort will be made to-morrow to make a channel for the transports at Alexandria. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 1865. Major-General HALLECK, Washington: Please inform me when General Schofield will leave Washington. I want to send his instructions to Fort Monroe by a staff officer to deliver them as the general passes. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 31, 18658.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: General Schofield will leave with first detachment from Alexandria. We shall attempt to open passage to-morrow. Will telegraph in time to have dispatches reach Schofield at Fort Monroe. H. W. JIALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 31, 1865. Major-General PARgE: What is the result of last instructions from Washington on the three commissioners ~ Is there any unusual stir in their lines ~ E. 0 C. ORD, Major- General Page 314 314 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TflE POTOMAC, January 30 [31], 18656.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. ORD, Commanding Army of the James: No unusual stir is observable in the enemys lines. Pending the flag of truce considerable interest was manifeste(l by their men. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 18657 p. m. General JOHN G. PARKE: Make preparation so that, if called upon, you can move at short notice with the Army of the Potomac, provided with six days rations. in case of a flank move the garrison to hold the lines will be reduced to a minimum. Sach portions of the Ninth and Sixth Corps as you may select will be left behind, say one division from each, and the garrisons of the inclosed works or batteries. Written instructions will be sent in advance of any move. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 1865. Major-General MEADE, Philadelphia, Pa.: Please return immediately. -~. ~. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 12. Washington, January 31, 1865. The Military Department of North Carolina is hereby constituted to consist of the State of North Carolina, which is detached from the Department of the South. Major-General Schofield is assigned to the command. The department will, until further instructions, be subject to the orders and control of Major-General Sherman. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 49. Washington, January 31, 1865. * * * * * * * 2. Brig. Gen. H. W. Wesseils, IT. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty as Commissary-General of Prisoners and will report without delay to Harts Island, New York Harbor, and r~lLve Brigadier-Gen- eral Hunks. U. S. Volunteers, in the command of the Draft Rendezvous and Prisoners Camp at that place. 3. Brigadier-General Ilinks, U. S. \~olnnteers, upon being relieved in the command of the Draft Rendezvous and Prisoners Camp, at Hart Page 315 CHAP. LVIII.] OQERESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 315 Island, New York Harbor, will immediately relieve Brig. Gen. William Hays, U. S. Volunteers, in his duties as assistant to the provost- marshal-general, swperintendent volunteer recruiting service, and chief mustering and disbursing officer for the Southern Division of the State ~f New York. 4. Brig. Gen. William Hays, U. S. Volunteers, upon being relieved in his present duties in the State of New York, will report in person with- out delay to the commanding general Army of the Potomac for assign- ment to duty. * ~* * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ..ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 31, 1865. Will you please inform the major-general commanding, by bearer, what l)roportion of your command will be required to hold your inclosed works (with the picket-line), these being reduced to the ininimuni. Please state also what proportion of your field artillery you can take with you, and state the number of guns. Make preparations so that, if called upon, you can move at short notice, provided with six days rations. Other instructions will be sent in full before any movement takes place. You will nominate a division to be held in reserve. By command of Major-General Parke: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. (To commanding officers Second, Sixth, and Ninth Corps.) HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 31, 186510.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Five deserters from the enemy came into our lines during the night A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, January 31, 186511.20 a. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of AS~taff, Army of the Potomac: I propose putting the mortars in Fort Fisher when finished, as upou examination I find that they will be most conveniently placed there. The company should hut in the fort as it has only forty men. The present infantry garrison and other infantry occupy all the ground in iear of the work and on the right and left. I mention this to ascer- tairi if the chief engineer and chief of artillery have any objections to the arrangement. A. A. HUMPHULYS, iiiiajor- General, Commanding Page 316 316 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA.~ MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CONFIDENTIAL hEADQUARTERS SECOrT ARMY Con~ s, CIRCULAR. January 31, 1865. Division commanders will hold themselves in readiness to move at very brief notice, with six days rations on hand. The meat ration being two of salt beef and fonr of fresh beef on the hoof respecting which full instrnctions have been given the acting chief commissary of the corps. ~o orders, however, for any change in the nsnal issne of rations to the troops will be made nntil further instrnctions from these head- quarters. In the event of any movement taking place orders similar to those issned December 7, 1864, will be promnlgated in respect to snpplies, ammunition, and teams to accompany the troops. All other trains will be sent to the rear within the lines at City Point. By order of Major-General Humphreys: S. CARNCI~OSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPs, January 31, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. N. A. MILEs, First Division: GENERAL: In the event of a movement taking place the intrench- ments from Fort Fisher to Fort Cummings, both inclnded, will be held by the artillery now posted there, and by the infantry garrison and picket and contingent force, which will be assigned as follows from yonr division: For Fort Fisher and the part of the new inclosing redoubt, 300 privates; for Fort Welch, 175 privates; for Fort Gregg, 75 privates; for Fort Sampson, 75 privates; for Fort Cummings, 175 privates; all with the proper complement of officers and non-colnmis- sioned officers. For the picket the same force now picketing the First Division front (the strength of which you will please report at once) and 300 men for picket relief and contingencies. In making these assignments regimental and brigade organizations will be preserved as far ~s possible. The contingent force will be posted near the most important works. An officer will be assigned to command the whole. Two hnndred ronnds of ammnnition for this force will be placed in the redonbts. The division commissary will be prepared to have the force just specified rationed as follows: Eight days rations of bread, sugar, and coffee; six days salt meat; two days beef on hoof, and two days salt. You will report the organizations assigned, as herein directed, with their strength and the names of the commanders, as well as the name of the commander of the whole. By order of Major-General llnmphreys: SEPT. CARNC1~OSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. NOTE.A note the next morning, February 1, stated to General Miles, that instead of assigning the force herein specified, he would merely designate it to me, be prepared to assign at very brief notice and to have the snpplies of food and ammnnition ready to be placed in the works Page 317 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CoRPS, January 31, 1865. Lieut. Col. S. F. BARSTOW: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired 011 the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W GETTY, Brevet lYiiajor- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ liD QRS. FIRST DIVISION, SIXTH CORPS, No. 23. January 31, 1865. 1. Bvt. Brig. Gen. Joseph E. Hamblin, U. S. Volunteers, having been assigned to duty by the President according to his brevet rank in Special Orders, 473, of Dec ember 29, 1864, from the War Department, and having reported Thr duty, is hereby assigned to the command of the Third Brigade of this division. 2. Col. I. C. Bassett, Eighty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, com- manding Third Brigade, upon being relieved by Brevet Brigadier- General Hamblin, will resume conimand of his regiment. By command of Brevet Major.General Wheaton: GEG. CLENDENIN, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, January 31, 18651.20 p. m. Major-General WILLcox: Lieutenant-Colonel Babcock, of General Grants staff, has a commu- nication for Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell. Will you please send word to the picket-line and notify Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch that Colojiel Babcock starts immediately with the communication. Please have an officer meet Colonel Babcock at the Avery house; also the four-horse spring wagon report to Babcock there. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS. January 31, 1865. (Received 6.50 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of staff, Army of the Potomac: Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell and Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch caine through my lines at 5 p. m. and left in the cars with Lieu- tenant-Colonel Babcock at dark this evening for City Point. - 0. B. WILLCOX, Brevet Major- Generab HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, January 31, 1865k Hon. E. M. STANTON, AS~eeretary of War: Richmond Sentinel, January 31, contains the following: A gentleman who was at the army on yesterday at Petersburg, when Messrs. Stephens, hunter, and Campbell passed through our lines on their way to Washing- tone says that the shouting along the lines wasprolonged and enthusiastic~ It woul Page 318 318 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. indeed be delightful if there were any room to hope that the Washington authori- ties are prepared for such terms of peace as would allow the soldiers to disperse at once. Before the acclamations of armies were united, when they lay confronted at Fredericksburg, a tine military bandplayed in succession Yankee Doodle, Dixie, and other national airs. These were appropriately responded to by the two armies alternately, but when the hand struck up Home, Sweet Home, the opposing camps forgot their hostilities and united in vociferous tribute to the common sentiment. OFFICIAL REPORTS. General Hardee telegraphs that the enemy crossed at Springfield on the night of the 26th instanu and moved northward in two columns on the morning of the 27th. He also reports that all attempts to cross the Combahee have so far failed. General Taylor reports that the enemy in some force came toward Clinton from Baton Rouge and Ba~ on Sara and returned. Activity is reported on the Mississippi Rivertroops going up and down. Most of Thomas army are reported to have marched west from Columbia to Clinton, on the Tennessee River. A portion of these forces, including A. J. Smiths, are said to be in the vicinity of Huntsville and Easiport. No change in the fleet off Mobile. The enemy are still leaving Pascagoula. ROM CHARLESTON. A dispatch from the Charleston Whig, dated the 29th, says the enemys infantry are encamped near Ennes Cross-Roads, on the road leading to Grahamville and on the road toward Sisters Ferry. They have wagon-trains with them. A recon- noitering force was reported within four miles of Robertsville on the 29th. Roberts- yule is fifty miles north of Savannah and five miles easkof the Savannah River. A small party of Yankees landed on Little Britain Island, near Legares, Saturday night and were driven off. ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE. XV e have direct advices, says the Lynchburg Republican of the 27th instant, from the Army of the Tennessee to the 13th instant through a private letter received in that city. General Beauregard would assume the command in person, and the army, it is stated, was about to move, but in which direction was not known. Richmond Whig CoiltaillS the following: GENERAL LEE AS COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. We learn that the President did not send to the Senate yesterday, as was antici- pated by some of our contemporaries, the nomination of General Robert E. Lee as commander-in-chief of the Armies of the Confederate States. JACKSON, January 28, 1865. Twenty-three houses, 600 bales of cotton, commissary, quartermasters, and other stores were burned at Summit this morning. The fire was accidental. Summit is a station on the New Orleans, Jack son, and Great Northern Railroad, seventy-five miles south of Jackson, in Pike County, Miss. Before the war it contained two hotels and twelve stores of various kinds. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 18G511 a. rn. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. ORD: Prepare your troops with six days rations, four of them in haver- sacks, from Thursday next, preparatory to moving with all available forces at that time. Instructions will be sent to you to-morrow. U. S. GRANT, Lieu4enant- General Page 319 CHAP.LYHL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 319 IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 31, 1865. (Received 3.30 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: All my bridges are carrie(I away by the ice. I have but six days rations within reach. I3ridges may be repaired by to-morrow. Are you aware that by the Presidents order I sent word yesterday p. m. through General Parke that the three peace commissioners will be met at or [near] where they now are, on General Parkes front, by a mes- senger from Washington ~ I presume the negotiations are to be con- ducted at City Poiiit. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell are Davis commissioners. Will this affect your order to move ~ E. 0. C. ORi), Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQR S. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 18. In the Field Va., January 31, 1865. The Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers is relieved from these headquarters, and the commanding officer will report to Brigadier-Gen- eral Deven~, commanding Third Division, for orders. Brigadier-Gen- eral Devens will detail weekly from his division a guard for these head- quarters of not less than 100 men, to be selected from the companies reported in best order in the regiments of his division. By command of Maj. Gen. John Gibbon: EDWARD MOALE, Captain, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, Aide-de- Camp and Acting Assistant A djutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, January 31, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. R. HAWLEY, Commanding First Dmvmsmon: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that wheim you are ready to leave for Fort Fisher you will take command of any troop~ that may be leaving at that time, provided time transporta- tioll can be had for them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD MOALE, Captain, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, Aide-dc- Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. FIRST DIV., 24TH ARMY CORPS, No. 22. in the Field, Va., January 31, 1865. * * * * * * * 4. First Lient. George R. Turubull, Tenth Connecticut Volunteers, is hereby detailed as aide-de-camp on the staff of the brigadier-general eomnmanding, and will report in person to Brig. Gen. J. R. Hawley at these headquarters without delay. By command of Brig. Gen. J. R. Hawley: P. A. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 320 320 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA, MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIL HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CoRPS, January 31, 1865. Brigadier-General TURNER, Chief of Staff: After dark last evening I placed a squad of men at the point spoken of yesterday, with directions to withdraw at or just before daybreak. During the day we have a fair view of the river from our picket-line. I have thought that this arrangement would answer better than by having a permanent post at that point. I wait for further instructions. C. A. HECKMIAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. JANUARY 31, 186510430 a. m. Brigadier-General HECKMAN: General Oid directs you to instruct General Wild to keep out a small picket party, not to exceed twenty-five men, at the point I indicated to you yesterday, with a view of preventing boat parties of the enemy landing in the neighborhood of the graveyard. If twenty-five men should be more than sufficient take a less number. The idea of the commanding general is not to attract the attention of the enemy to such an extent as to draw his fire from the batteries on the opposite shore, as it would inflict injury npom~ our men in the trenches. The object in occupying this ground is simply to show to the enemy that they are forbidden to come onto this ground, and not to excite their suspicion that we are about to engage in any enterprise. JNO. W. TUIRNER, Brigadier- General and Chief of Stafr. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, OFFICE OF CHIEF ENGP~EER, Near Aikens, Va., January 31, 1865. Brig. Gen. C. A. IIECKMAN, Commanding Twenty-fifth Army Corps: GENERAL: By direction of the major-general commanding, I this morning reported to Brig. Gen. W. Birney for the purpose of examining the ground in front and to the left of Fort Buruham to determine what dispositions should be mimade to prevent the enemy from massing troops under the fort and out of reach of its guns preparatory to an assault. It was decided that a rifle-pit should be dug around th~ crest of the hill to completely command the ground at the base, extending from the front around to the left, avid so constructed as to afibrd no cover for the enemy, and that a battery for one section of field pieces be erected in front of the camp of the Ninth Regiment of Colored Troops at the salient in the line, so as to sweep the low ground before Fort Bnrnham and at the base of the ridge farther to the right. Major-General Ord approves of the plan, and desires that you will direct General Birney to carry it out, the rifle-pits to be finished before the battery is built. I have the honor to be. very respeethully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. VEZIN, Captain, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Acting Assistant Engmneer Page 321 CL~& r. LVJII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 321 KAUTZS HEADQUARTERS, January 31, 1865. General TURNER: Colonel Evans returned very early this morning bringing in seven prisoners. I directed him to make a written report, which will be for- warded as soon as received.* A. V. KAUTZ, Major- General. IIDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, January 31, 1865. Colonel WEST: COLONEL: The general conimauding division directs that you pre- pare yourcomman d with six days rations, four days in haversacks, from Thursday next, preparatory to moving with all the available force of your command at that time. Will send you instructions as soon as received from department headquarters. You will keep this order as much a secret as possible. Respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WHIPPLE, - Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Colonel Spear, Colonel Evans, commanding officer Fourth Wisconsin l3attery, and Lieutenant Sherman, acting assistant quarter- master.) IIDQRS. GENERAL RENDEZVOUS, SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA, Newport News, Va., January 31, 1865. Maj. WICKHAM HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, District of Eastern Virginia: SIR: I have the honor to rel)ort in relation to the field-works of this command, that they consist of a sin Ic line of breast-works nd two river batteries in t~uite a dilapidated condition from the action of the weather. These are mounted with no guns of any description. That the above works are designated by any other names than that of the post I am not aware. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, LOREN BURRITT, Lieutenants Colonel Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, Corndg. Rendezvous. Report of field-works in the District of Eastern Virginia, Department of Virginia and North Carolina. giring the name and location of each work, together with the number, kind, and caliber of the arms with which they are armed, for the month ending Jan- uary 31, 1865. Name. Location. Guns., Kind. Caliber. Redan No. 1 On right of line of defenses 2 Siege guns 24-pounder. Battery Scott Scotts Creek bridge 1 Howitzer (bronze) --- - 12-pounder. 2 Field gnus (light) - - -. 6-pounder. Fort Woodruff On line of defenses 3 Sea-coast gnus 42-pounder. 1 Parrott gun 100-pounder. sedan No. 2 do - f2 Siege gnus~~.----- 1$-pounder. 5See Part I, p.37L 21 R RVOL XLV PT I Page 322 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Report of field-works in the Di8trict of Eastern Virginia ,~c. Continued. Name. Location. Guns. Kind. Caliber. Redan No.3 On line of defenses I Field gnns (bronze) ... I 12-pounder. Redan No.4 do 3 Siege guns 18-pounder. Redan No.5 do 3 do 12 pounder. do 1 Parrott 100-pounder Fort llazlett 5 Sea-coast guns 42-pounder. RedanNo.6 do (a) Fort Cushing do - - -- 5 Sea-coast guus 42-pounder. ~4 Brass 6-pounder. 2 Brass (light) 12-pounder. 1 Mountain howitzer Do. Fort Ringgold South branch Elizabeth River 1 Field howitzer 1)o. 2 Steel guns 3-inch. Siege (cast-iron) 12-pounder. (2 do 24-pounder. 4 Sea-coast 42-pounder. Fort ORorke Ferry Point 1 Parrott (rifled) 100-pounder. Fo-t Norfolk Elizabeth River (a) (2 Parrott guns 20-pounder. I do 3-inch. 4 Brass howitzers 12-pounder. 1 1 Howitzer 8-inch. Fort Magruder - - -- Near Williamsburg, Va 1 do 24-pounder. 2 Iron uns 12-pounder. 4 Carronades 42-pounder. 1 Mortar 8-inch. I Nugeats repeating suns. Redoubt No. 5 Quarter mile from Fort Magruder - - 1 Iron gun. - 12-pounder. 1 ... do.. 6-pounder. Redoubt No.6 Quarter mile from Redoubt No.5 ~2 ~ do 12-pounder. )1 ......do 6-pounder. a No armament. I Certify that the above is correct. C. GRAHAM BACON Lieutenant, Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery, and Acting Ordnance Officer. NEW BERNE, January 31, 1865. CoT. J. STEWART, Jr., Ninth New ~Jersey Vols., Comdg. Sub-District of BeaN/art: The Twenty-eighth Michigan and One hundred and eightieth Ohio Volunteers are momentarily expected at Morelicad. They are with other troops that are ordered farther south. These two regiments lllllSt~ by order of General Grant, l)e detained at Morehead, and you will order them II~ here. Be on the lookout for tllem. I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General. CITY POINT, VA., January 31, 18651.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERiDAN, Winchester: General Grovers division has gone to Savannah, Ga., and will con- stitute a part of the permanent garrison of that place. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- Generals 32 Page 323 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 323 CITY POINT, YA, January 31, 18G53.30 r m. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.: Do you think it would be safe for you to spare a division of cavalry to send to North Carolina. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 31, 18G5. Col. W. H. PETTES, Fiftieth New York Engineers, Washington. D. (ii.: Major Folwell, Fiftieth Tew York Engineers, leaves here to-morrow morning with Company I, Fiftieth New York Engineers, for the pur- pose of drawing, putting up, & c., a pontoon (canvas) bridge train for the use of cavalry of this army. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Brevet Brigadier- General, Chief of Staff. GENERAL ORDERS, HD-RS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 19. ) January 31, 1865. I. Maj. Adam E. King, assistant adjutant-general, U. S. Volunteers, having reported in accordance with paragraph 31, Special Orders, No. 47, War Department, Adjutant Generals Office, January 30, 1865, is announced as assistant adjutant-general at these headquarters, and will be respected accordingly. II. The major-general commanding regrets the necessity which de- prives the department of the services of Maj. C. II. Raymond, assistant adjutant-general, and trusts the same success will follow him in private life which has attended his efforts whilst connected with the army. By command of Maj. Gen. C. C. Augur: J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staif Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, January 31, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE CROOK, Comdg. Department of West Virginia: The regiment of cavalry at New Creek can be made an effective body of men, to be cut loose from the post at aiiy time, if you will send a regiment of infantry there. It must be recollected that you have nearly, if not fully, 12,000 men on the line of the railroad and at the outpostsPhulippi, Buckhannon, and B niltown. P. H. SHERII)AN, Major- General, Commanding. CHARLESTON. W. VA., January 31, 1865. Lieutenant-Colonel PLATNER, Commanding First New York Cavalry, Camp Piatt: Captain Whitley has information that a large rebel force is on the Lewisbnrg road. Cant say how much truth there is in it. Keep your command in hand if occasion requires action. JOHN 11. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding Page 324 324 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., XV, VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Abatract from return of the Army of the I~otooioc, 2lIaj. (len. George U. Meade, U. S. Army commanding, for the month of January, 1865.1 Present for ~ ~ Pieces of duty. ~ artillery. a ~a. a a.~ Command. a. a a K bff~ a a~ o sa n~ ,, K K a o a~ ~ 35 44 General headquarters Provost Guard (Patrick) - - 47 1,363 1,918 2,822 Engineer Bri~ade (Beuham) 101 3, 620 4, 390 5, 481 Battalion 17. 5. Engineers (ilarwood) 5 187 230 278 independent Company Oneida (N. V.) Cavalry 2 40 68 102 (Batchelder). Artillery (Hunt) 36 1, 001 1, 084 2, 702 68 94 Signal Corps (Davis) 8 118 132 163 Second Army Corps (Humphreys) 991 19, 973 26, 157 47, 439 70 Filth Army Corps (Warren) 708 16, 801 22, 694 33, 141 60 Sixth Army Corps (Getty) 615 16. 446 20, 904 31, 381 48 Ninth Army Corps (Willeox) 694 16, 747 21. 733 33, 732 36 Second Cavali-y Division (Gregg) 247 6, 523 8, 578 14, 351 S Total 3,489 82,021 107,923 171,639 68 316 Oraanization of the Army ~f the Potomac, commanded by Maj. Gen. Ueorye G. ~1Ieade,~ U. S. Army, January 31, 1865. GENERAL HEADQUARTERS. PROVOST GUARD. Brig. Gen. MALISENA H. PATRICK, 8th Delaware (three companies), Capt. John N. Richards. 1st indiana Cavalry, Company K, Licut. William 0. Hedrick. 1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Companies C and D, Capt. James J. Higginson. 80th New York (20th Militia), Maj. John R. Leslie. 3d Pennsylvania Cavalry (eight conspanies), Maj. Frank W. hess. 68th Pennsylvania, Capt. Michael Fulmer. 114th Pennsylvania, Byt. Brig. (len. Charles H. T. Collis. ENGINEER BRIGA1)E AiD DEFENSES OF CITY POiNT. Brig. (len. HENRY W. BENHAM.t 61st Massachusetts (six companies), Lieut. Go). Char]es F. Walcott. 1st Maine Sharpshooters (six companies), Capt. George R. Abbott. Halls Independent Battalion (Michigan) Sharpshooters (two companies), Capt. Nathaniel P. Watson. 18th New Hampshire (six conipanies), Limit. Go). Joseph M. Clough. 15th New York Engineers, Go). Wesley Brainerd. 50th New York Engineers, Col. William H. Pettes.~ 5Temporarily absent; Maj. Gen. John U. Parke in command. t For effective strength see Part I, p. 61. On detached duty; Go). Wesley Brainerd, 15th New York Engineers, temporarily commanding. ~ Commanding detachment at Washington, D. C., the remainder of regimeist serv- ing in the field under subordinate officers Page 325 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 325 BATTALION U. S. ENGINEERS. Bvt. Maj. FRANKLIN HARWOOD. GUARDS AND ORDERLIES. Independent Company Oneida (New York) Cavalry, Col. Richard N. Batchelder. SIGNAL CORPS. Capt. CHARLES L. DAVIS. ARTILLERY. * Bvt. Maj. Gen. HENRY J. HUNT. Artillery J?eserre. C~ pt. EZEKIEL R. MAYO. Maine Light, 24 Battery (B), Lient. Benjamin F. Carr. Maine Light, 3d Battery (C), Capt. Ezekiel R. Mayo. 15th New York Heavy Artillery, Corn any F, Capt. Calvin Shaffer. SECOND ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. ANDREW A. HUMPLIREYS. FIRST DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Cell. NELSON A. MILES. First Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. GEORGE N. MACV. 26th Michigan, Maj. Nathan Church. 5th New Hampshire, Capt. John S. Ricker. 61st New York, Capt. Jarvis D. Cook. 81st Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. William Wilson. 140th Pennsylvania, Capt. William A. F. Stockton. 1834 Pennsylvania, Col. George T. Eg~ bert. 24 New York Heavy Artillery, Maj. Oscar F. Hulser. Secoad Brigade. Col. ROBERT NUGENT.t 28th Massachnsetts (five companies), Maj. James Fleming. 63(1 New York (six companies), Lient. Col. John H. Gleason. 69th New York, Capt. Robert H. Mu- liken. 88th New York (five companies), Lient. Col. Denis F. Bnrke. 7th New York Heavy Artillery, Capt. Charles W. Hobbs. V Third Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. HENRY 1. MADILL.~ 7th New York, Lient. Col. Anthony Pokorny. 39th New York (seven companies), Maj. John McE. Hyde. 524 New York (seven companies), Lient. Col. Henry M. Karples. 111th New York, Lient. Col. Lewis W. Hnsk. 125th New York, Lient. Col. Joseph Hyde. 126th New York (five companies), Capt. John B. Geddis. Fourth Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. JOHN RAMSEY. 64th New York (six companies), Lient. Col. William Glenny. 66th New York, Capt. Nathaniel P. Lane. 534 Pennsylvania, Col. William M. Mintzer. 116th Pennsylvania, Maj. David W. Me- graw. 145th Pennsylvania, Capt. James H. Hamlin. 148th Pennsylvania, Capt. James F. Weaver. 4th New York Heavy Artillery, Maj. Frank Williams. All organizations of artillery, excepting those entered under this head, will be found in the rosters of the commands with which they served. On leave from January 22; Bvt. Col. Edward R. Warner 1st New York Light Art lilery, temporarily commanding. On leave from Jannary 29; Col. Richard C. Dnryea, 7th New York Heavy Artil- I ry, temporarily commanding. ~l On leave from January 28; Col. George von Schack, 7th New York, temporarily uommanding. flmi& r. LVITI. Page 326 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIt SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. THOMAS A. SMYTH. First Brigade. Col. WILLIAM A. OLMStED. 19th Maine, Maj. David E. Parsons. 19th Massachusetts, Lieut.Col.Edmund Rice. 20th Massachusetts, Lient. Col. Arthur R. Curtis. 7th Michigan, Mj. Moracio Van Sickle. 1st Minnesota (two companies), Capt. Frank Houston. 59th New York, Lieut. Col. James A. Jewell. 152d New York, Capt. Francis D. Butler. 184th Pennsylvania, Col. John H. Stover. 36th Wisconsin, Lieut. Col. Clement E. Warner. Second Brigade. Col. MATHEw MURPHY. 155th New Yoik, Capt. Michael Doheny. 164th New York, Lielit. Col. William De Lacy. 170th New York, Col. James P. Melvor. 182(1 New York (69th New York National Guard Artillery), Lient. Col. John Coonan. 8th New York Heavy Artillery, Lient. Col. Joel B. Baker. Third Brigade. Lient. Col. FRANCIS E. PIERCE. 14th Connecticut, Lient. Col. Samuel A. Moore. 1st Delaware, Lieut. Col. Joseph C. Nicholls. 12th New Jersey, Maj. Henry F. Chew. 10th New~ York (six companies), Lient. Col. George F. hopper. 108th New York, Capt. William H. Andrews. 4th Ohio (four companies), Lieut. Col. Charles C. Calahan. 69th Pennsylvania, Capt. Charles McAnally. 106th Pennsylvania (three companies), Lient. Jacob Y. Ely. 7th West Virginia (four companies), Capt. Francis W. H. Baldwin. Provost Guard. 2d Company Minnesota Sharpshooters, Lient. Edward N. Schoff. TILlED DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. GERSIIOM MOTT. First Brigade. Brig. Gen. REGIS DE TROBRIAND. 20th Indiana, Col. William Orr. 17th Maine, Lient. Col. William Hobson. 40th New York, Lient. Col. Madison M. Cannon. 73d New York (seven companies), Lient. Col. Michael W. Burns. 86th New York, Lient. Col. Nathan H. Vincent. 124th New York, Lient. Col. Charles H. Weygant. 99th Pennsylvania, Col. Edwin R. Biles. 110th Pennsylvania, Maj. Isaac T. Hamilton. 24 U. S. Sharpshooters, Maj. James E. Doughty. 1st Maine Heavy Artillery, Col. Russell B. Shepherd. Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. BYRON H. P1EHCE.~ 5th Michigan, Maj. Daniel S. Root. 93d New York (seven companies), Lient. Col. Benjamin C. Butler. 57th Penusylvani, Capt. Samuel Bryan. 105th Pennsylvania, Capt. Oliver C. Redie. 141st Peunsylvatia, Lient. Col. Casper W. Tyler. 1st Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, Capt. Ahiel S. Rhodes. * On leave from January 24; Bvt. Brig. Gen. George W. West, 17th Maine, tempo~ rarily commanding. 32 Page 327 CHAP. LYlIi.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 327 Third Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. ROBERT MCALLISTER. 11th Massachusetts, Capt. Thomas H. Dunham. 7th New Jersey, Col. IranCis Price. 8th New Jersey, Maj. Henry Hartford. 11th New Jersey, Lieut. Col. John Schoonover. 120th New York, Lient. Col. Abram L. Lockwood. ARTILLERY BRIGADE. Bvt. Lient. Col. JOHN G. HAZARD. Maine Light, 6th Battery (F), Capt. William 11. Rogers. Massachusetts Light, 10th Battery, Byt. Maj. J. Henry Sleeper. 1st New Hampshire, Battery M, Capt. George K. Dakin. 1st New Jersey Light, Battery B, Capt. A. Judson Clark. New Jersey Light,3d Battery, Bvt. Maj. Christian Woerner. 1st New York Light, Battery G, Lient. Willialn 11. Stringer. 4th New York heavy, Company C, Lient. Richard Kennedy. 4th New York Heavy, Company L, Lient. Frank Seymour. New York Light, 11th Battery, Lient. George W. Davey. New York Light, 12th Battery, Capt. Charles A. Clark. 1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery F, Lient. John F. Campbell. 1st Rhode Island Light, Battery B, Lient. William B. Westcott. 4th United States, Battery K, Byt, Capt. John W. Roder. 5th United States, Batteries C and I, Lient. W. Butler Beck. FIFTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. GOUVERNEUR K. WARREN. ESCORT. 4th Pennsylv nia Cavalry, Company C, Lient. Wilson Waigle. PROVOST GUARD. 104th New York, Capt. William W. Graham. FIRST DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. CHARLES GRIFFIN. First Brigadc. Bvt. Brig. Gen. HORATIO G. SICKEL. 185th New York, Col. Edwin S. Jenney. 198th Pennsylvania, Maj. Edwin A. Glenn. Second Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. EDGAR M. GREGORY. 187th New York (seven colnpanies), Lient. Col. Daniel Myers. 188th New York, Maj. Christopher C. Davison. 189th New York, Capt. John Slocum. On leave from January 22; Ccl. Allen L. Burr, 189th New York, temporarily coIn manding Page 328 328 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV1II. Third Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOSEPH J. BARTLETT. ~ 20th Maine, Lieut. Col. Charles D. Gilmore. 32d Massachusetts, Col. J. Cushing iIi~dmands. 1st Michigan, Maj. George Lockley. 16th Michigan, t Bvt. Col. Benjamin F. Partridge. 83d Pennsylvania (six companies), Lient. Col. Chauncey P. Rogers. 91st Pennsylvania, Capt. John S. Donnell. 118th Pennsylvania, l3vt. Col. Charles P. Herring. 155th Pennsylvania, Bvt. Col. John Ewing. SECOND DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. ROMEYN B. AYRES. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. FREDERICK WINTHROP. Bvt. Brig. Ccii. ANDuEw W. DENISON.t 5th New York, Capt. Henry Schick- 1st Maryland, Col. John W. Wilson. hardt. 4th Maryland, Maj. 1-larrison Adreon. 140th New York, Capt. William J. Clark. 7th Maryland, Lieiit. Col. David T. Ben- 146th New York, Lient. Col. James Grind- nett. lay. 8th Maryland, Lieut. Co]. John G. Johan- 15th New York Heavy Artillery, Lient. nes. Col. Michael Wiedrich. Third Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. JAMES GWYN.~ 3d Delaware, Maj. James E. B~ ily. 4th Delaware, Bvt. Lient. Col. Moses B. Gist. 157th Pennsylvania (four companies), Maj. Edmund T. Tiers. 190th Pennsylvania, Capt. Richard M. Birkman. 191st Pennsylvanfi~, Capt. Perez L. Norton. 210th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Edward L. Witman. THIRD DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. SAMUEL W. CRAWFORD. Sharpshooters. 1st Battalion New York (three companies), Capt. Clinton Perry. First Brigade. Brig. Gen. EDWARD S. BRAGG. 24th Michigan, Lient. Col. Albert M. Edwards. 14.3d Pennsylvania, Col. Edma ad L. Dana. 149th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. John irvin. 150th Pennsylvania, Capt. John W. Sigler. 6th Wisconsin, Col. John A. Kellogg. 7th Wisconsin, Lieut. Col. Hollon Richardson. ~ On leave from January 27; Bvt. Bri~ Gen Al , usylvania, temporarily commanding. ~. . fred L. Pearson 155th Pen Bradys and Jardines companies Michigan Sharpshooters attached. On leave from January22; Col. Richard N. Bowerman, 4th Maryland, temporarily commanding. ~ On leave from January 8; Col. Williani Sergeant, 210th Pennsylvania, temporarily commanding Page 329 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 329 Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. HENRY BAXTER. 16th Maine, Col. Charles W. Tilden. 39th Massachusetts, Lient. Col. Henry M. Tremlett. 97th New York, Lieut. Col. John P. Spofford. 11th Pennsylvania, Maj. John B. Overinyer. 88th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Benjamin F~ Haine~. 107th Pennsylvania, Col. Thonias F. McCoy. Third Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. J. WILLIAM HOFMANN. 94th New York, Col. Adrian R. Root. 95th New York, Lient. Col. James Creney. 147th New York, Capt. James Coey. 56th Pennsylvania, Maj. John T. Jack. 121st Pennsylvania, Maj. West Funk. 142(1 Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Horatio N. Warren. ARTILLERY BRIGADE. Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES S. WAINWRIGIIT. Massachusetts Light, 5th Battery (E), Lieut. Harrison 0. Simonds. Massachusetts Light, 9th Battery, Capt. Richard S. Milton. 1st New York Light, Battery B, Lient. George H. Tallett. 1st New York Light, Battery C, Lient. George B. Ketchum. 1st New York Light, Battery D, Capt. James B. Hazelton. 1st New York Light, Battery E, Capt. Angell Matthewson. 1st New York Light, Battery H, Bvt. Maj. Charles B. Mink. 1st New York Light, Battery 1~, Bvt. Maj. George Breck. 1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery B, Lient. William MeClelland. 4th IJnitcd States, Battery B, Lieut. John Mitchell. 5th United States, Batteries D and 0, Bvt. Capt. William E. Van Reed. SIXTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT.I ESCORT. 21st Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company B, Capt. William 11. Boyd, jr. FIRST DIvIsION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. FRANK WIJEATON. Fir8t Brigade. Second Brigade. Lient. Col. EDWARD L. CAMPBELL. Brig. Gen. RANALD S. MACKENZIE.II 3d New Jersey (one company), Capt. 65th New York, Lieut. Col. Henry C. James H. Comings. Fisk. 4th New Jersey,t Capt. Baldwin Hnfty. 121st New York, Lieut. Col. Eghert 10th New .Jersey, Capt. James W. Mc- Olcott. Neely. 95th Pennsylvania(six companies),Capt. 15th New Jersey,~ Capt. Ehenezer W. John A. Ward. Davis. 2d Connecticut Heavy Artillery, Licut. Col. Jeffrey Skinner. On leave from Jan aary 24; Bvt. Brig. Gen. Henry A. Morrow, 24th Michigan, tem- porarily comniandiiig. On leave from January 16; Bvt.. Maj. Gen. George W. Getty temporarily com- manding. lThree companies of the 1st and three of the 40th New Jersey attached. ~ One company of the 2d New Jersey attached. I On leave from January 23; Col. James Hubbard, 2(1 Connecticut Heavy Artillery, temporarily commanding Page 330 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP LYLLI. Third Brigade. llvt. Brig. Gen. JOSEPH E. HAMBLIN. 37th Massachnsetts, Lient. Col. George L. Montague. 49th Pennsylvania, Lient. Cal. Baynton J. Hickman. 824 Pennsylvania, Col. Isaac C. Bassett. 119th Pennsylvania, Lient. Cal. Gideon Clark. 2d Rhode Island (six companies), Capt. James A. Bowen. 5th Wisconsin, Lient. Col. James M. Bull. SECOND DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. GEOnw~ W. GErrY. First Brigade. Col. JAMES M. WALIN R, 324 New York, Lient. Col. Theodore B. Hamilton. 93d Pennsylvania, Lieut. Col. Charles W. Eckman. 98th Pennsylvania, Capt. Gottfried Baner. 1024 Pennsylvania, Lieut. Col. James Patchell. 139th Pennsylvania. Lient. Col. John G. Parr. Secoe(l Brigade. Brig. Gen. LEWIs A. GRANT.t 2(1 Vermont, Lieut. Col. Amasa S. Tracy. 3(1 Vermont (~ix ~ Capt. Alonzo H. companie ~ Newt. 4th Vermont, 5th Vermont, Capt. Ronald A. Kennedy. 6th Vermont (six companies), Maj. Sum- ner H. Lincoln. 1st Vermont HeavyArtillery, Maj. Alduce F. Walker. Third Brigade. Col. THOMAS XV. HYDE. 1st Maine, Lieut. Col. Stephen C. Fletcher. 43d New York (five companies), Lient. Col. Charles A. Milliken. 49th New York (five, companies), Lient. Cal. Erastus 1). Halt. 77th New York (five companies), Lient. Col. David J. Caw. 122d ~ew York, Capt. Morton L. Marks. 61st Pennsylvania (seven conipanies), Capt. Albert A. Nickerson. THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. TRUMAN SEYMOUR. First Brigade. Col. WILLIAM S. TIIUEx. 14th New Jersey, Lient. Cal. Jacob J. Janeway. 106th New York, Lient. Cal. Andrew N. McDonald. 151st New York (five companies), Lieut. Cal. Charles Bogardus. 87th Pennsylvania (five companies), Capt. James learney. 10th Vermont, Capt. George B. Damon. Second Brigade. Cal. BENJAMIN F. SMITH. 6th Maryland, Maj. Clifton K. Prentiss. 110th Ohio, Lient. Cal. Otho H. Binkley. 122d Ohio, Cal. William H. B~ 11. 126th Ohio, Lient. Cal. Thomas W. Mc- 67th Kinnie. Pennsylvania (seven companies), Maj. Harry White. 138th Pennsylvania, Cal. Matthew R. MeClennan. 9th New York Heavy Artillery, Lient. Cal. James W. Snyder. * Temporarily commanding corps; Brig. Gen. Lewis A. Grant in command of division. Temporarily commanding division; Cal. George P. Foster, 4th Vermont, in cam- man(l of brigade. 83 Page 331 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ARTILLERY BRIGADE. Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES H. TOMPKINS. Maine Light, 4th Battery (D), Lient. John M. Freeman. Massachusetts Light. 14th Battery, Lieut. Samuel Chapin. 1st New .Jersey Light, Battery A, Capt. Angustin N. Parsons. New York Light, 3d Battery, Lieut. George W. Kellogg. 1st Ohio Light, Battery H, Lient. James Harris. 1st Rhode Island Light, Battery E, Limit. Ezra K. Parker. 1st Rhode Island Light, Battery H, Lient. Walter M. Knight. 5th United States, Battery E, Lient. John R. Brinckl6. Verniont Light, 3d Battery, Capt. Romeo H. Start. NINTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. JOHN G. PAmdmt ESCORT. 2d Pennsylvania Cavalry (two companies), Lient. Aaron K. Seip. PROVOST GUARD. 79th New York (five companies), Capt. Andrew 1). Baird. FIRST DIVISION. Bvt. Brig. Cell. NAPOLEON B. MCLAUGHLEN. First Brigade. Col. SAMUEL HARRIMAN. 5th Michigan, Bvt. Col. Ralph Ely. 27th Michigan,t Lient. Col. Charles Waite. 109th New York, Maj. George W. Dunn. 51st Pennsylvania, Col. William J. Bol- ton. 37th Wisconsin, Licut. Col. John Green. 38th Wisconsin, Col. James Bintliff. Second Brigade. Col. BYRON M. CUTCHEON. 1st Michi~an Sharpshooters, Maj. Asa hel W. Nichols. 2d Michigan, Lieut. Col. Edwin J. March. 20th Michigan, Lient. Col. Claudius B. Grant. 46th New York, Lient. Col. Adolph Becker. 60th Ohio,~ Maj. William L. Stearns. 50th Penusylvaula, Capt. George W. Brumm. Third Brigade. Bvt. Col. GILBERT P. ROHINSON. 3d Maryland (four companies), Capt. Joseph F. carter. 29th Massachusetts, Capt. George H. Taylor. 57th Massachusetts, Lient. Col. Julius M. Tucker. 59th Massachusetts, Maj. Ezra P. Gould. 100th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Joseph H. Pentecost. 14th New York Heavy Artillery, Maj. George M. Randall. On leave; Bvt. Maj. William A Ham 3d mandin~. . , New York Battery, temporarily com Commanding Army of the Potomac; Bvt. Maj. Gen. Orlando B. Wihicox, of First Division, temporarily commanding corps. t 1st and 2d Companies Michigan Sharpshooters attached. ~ 9th and 10th Companies Ohio Sharpshooters attached. 33 Page 332 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Acting Engineers. 17th Michigan, Lient. Col. Frederick W. Swift. SECOND DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. ROBERT B. POTTER. First Brigade. Byt. Brig. Gen. JOHN I. CURTIN.~ 35th Massachusetts, Maj. John XV. Hud son. 36th Massachusetts, Capt. Joseph A. Mar- shall. 58th Massachusetts, Lient. Col. John C. Whiton. 39th New Jersey, Col. Abram C. Wild- rick. 51st New York, Capt. Frederick B. Mc- Ready. 45th Pennsylvania, Capt. Roland C. Cheesemaii. 48th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. George W. Gowan. 4th Rhode islaud (three companies), Capt. William 7th Rhode Island (seven H. Joyce. companies), J Second Brigade. Col. HERBERT B. TITUS. 31st Maine, Lient. Col. Edward L. Getchell. 2d Maryland, Capt. Omer P. Cram. 56th Massachusetts, Licut Col. Horatio D. Jarves. 6th New Hampshire, Lient. Col. Pliin P. Bixby. 9th New Hampshire, Capt. John B. Cooper. 11th New Hampshire, Col. Walter Har- riman. 179th New York, Col. William M. Gregg. 186th New York, Lient. Col. E. Jay Marsh. 17th Vermont, Col. Francis V. Randall. THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. JQHN F. HARTRANFT. First Brigade. Col. CHARLES W. DIVEN. 200th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. William H. H. McCall. 208th Pennsylvania, Col. Alfred B. Mc- Calmont. 209th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. George W. Frederick. Second Brigade. Col. JOSEPH A. MATHEWS. 205th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. William F. Walter. 207th Pennsylvania, Col. Robert C. Cox. 211th Pennsylvania, Col. James H. Trim- ble. ARTiLLERY BRIGADE. Bvt. Brig. Gen. JOHN C. TIDBALL.t Maine Light, 7th Battery (G), Capt. Adelbert B. Twitehell. Massachusetts Light, 11th Battery, Capt. Edward J. Jones. New York Light, 19th Battery, Capt. Edward W. Rogers. New York Light, 27th Battery, Capt. John B. Eaton. New York Light, 34th Battery, Bvt. Maj. .Jacoh Roemer. Pennsylvania Light, Battery D, Capt. samuel H. Rhoads. On leave from January 21; Col. Sumner Carruth, :35th Massaehnsetts, temuoranily commanding. On leave; Maj. R. Bruce Rieketts, 1st Pennsylvania Light Artillery, temporarily commandiug. 33 Page 333 CRAm LVIII.] 333 CORRESP& NDENCE, ETC.UNION. CAVALRY. SECOND DIVISION. Byt. Maj. Gen. DAVID McM. GREGG. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Byt. Brig. Gen. J. IRVIN GREGG. 24 Pennsylvania, Maj. George F. Mc- Cabe. 4th Pennsylvania, Col. Samuel B. M. Young. 8th Pennsylvania (eight companies), Lient. Col. William A. Corrie. 13th Pennsylvania, Col. Michael Kerwin. 16th Pennsylvania, Lieut. Col. John K. Pobison. 1st U. S. Artillery, Batteries H and I, Lient. Chandler P. Eakin. Brig. Gen. HENRY E. DAVIES, Jr. ist Massachusetts (eight companies), Lieut. Col. Samuel F. Chamber- lain. isv New Jersey, Lieut. Col. Myron H. Beaumont. 10th New York, Col. M. Henry Avery. 24th New York, Lient. Col. Walter C. Newberry. 1st Peuusylvauia (five companies), Maj. Hampton S. Thomas. 2d U. S. Artillery, Battery A, Lieut. W. Neil Dennison. Third Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES 11. Smnrii.t 1st Maine, Lieut. Col. Jonathan P. Cilley. 24 New York Mounted Rifles, Capt. Samuel I). Stevenson. 6th Ohio, Lient. Col. George W. Dickinson. 13th Ohio, Maj. Stephen R. Clark. 21st Pennsylvania, Maj. Robert Bell. Abstract from return of the Department of Virginia, Maj. Gem. Edward 0. C. Ord, U. S. Army, commanding, for the month of January, 1865. [Compiled mainly from subordinate returns.] Command. Present for duty. Q General headquarters 33 Signal Corps (Norton) 12 Naval Brigade (Graham) 29 First New York Engineers (Serrell) 9 Fourth Massachuset?ts Cavalry (Rand) 12 Twenty-fourth Army Corps (Gibbon) 577 Twcnty-lifth Army Corps (Weitzel) 414 Cavalry Division (Kautz) 117 District of Eastern Virginia (Shepley) 109 Separate Brwude~ (C-mrr) . Defenses of ~3crmuda Hundred (Ferraro) its Total 1,503 Grand total according to department return 1, 476 z 97 637 322 205 15, 963 12, 963 2, 925 3. 340 1, 351 0, 623 at a be be be -1 33 109 851 491 260 18,943 16, 336 3, 6u9 4, 665 1, 559 4,476 a aaZ a aa cc 34 150 1(109 848 829 44,044 30, 326 5, 514 8, 939 2, 096 7,231 Pieces of artillery. a a 70 54 4 24 12 6 41,426 51,332 101,120 24 146 40,781 50,396 101,545 24 146 On leave from January 19; Col. hugh H. Janeway, 1st New Jersey, temporarily Commanding. On leave from January 16; Col. Oliver B. Knowles, 21st Pennsylvania, temporarily coInnlnIl(ljn g. Embraces tioops at harrisons Landing and Forts Pocahontas and Powliatan Page 334 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. 334 Organization of troops in the Department of Virginia, commanded by ilJiaj. Gen. Edward 0. 0. Ord, U. & Army, January 31, 18G5. GENERAL HEADQUARTERS. SIGNAL CORPS. Capt. LEMUEL B. NORTON. NAVAL BRIGADE. Brig. Gen. CHARLES K. GRAHAM. 13th New York Heavy Artillery, Company I, Lieut. William G. Hart. 13th New York Heavy Artillery, Company K, Lieut. Stewart J. Donnelly. 13th New York Heavy Artillery, Company L, Lieut. Patrick A. OMalley. 13th New York Heavy Artillery, Company M, Capt. Edward C. Parkinson. 3d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery (four companies), Maj. Franz von Schilling ENGINEERS. 1st New York, Col. Edward W. Serrell. CAVALRY. 4th Massachusetts (detachment), Col. Arnold A. Rand. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. JOHN GIBHoN. - HEADQUARTERS GUARD. 8th Connecticut, Col. John E. Ward. PROVOST GUARD AND ORI)ERLIES. 4th Massachusetts Cavalry, Companies F and K, Capt. Joseph J. Baker. FIRST DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. ALFRED H. TERRY.~ First Brigade. Third Brigade. Col. THOMAS 0. OSBOIIN. Col. HARRIS M. PLAISTED. 39th Illinois, Capt. Homer A. Plympton. 10th Connecticut, Lieut. Col. Edwin S. 62d Ohio, Maj. Thomas J. Platt. Oreeley. 67th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Henry 8. Comma- 11th Maine, Licut. Col. Jonathall A. ger. Hill. 199th Pennsylvania, Col. James C. Bris- 24th Massachusetts, Capt. Thomas F. coe. Edniands. 100th New York, Col. George B. Dandy. 206th Pennsylvania, Col. Hugh J. Brady. Second Brigadet Fourth Bregade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. JosEwi C. ABBOTT. Bvt. Brig. Gen. JAMES JOUJIDAN. 6th Coullecticut, Lient. Col. Daniel 8th Maine, Lient. Col. William M. Mc- Klein. Arthur. 7th Connecticut, Lient. Col. Seager 8. 89th New York, Col. Harrison S. Fair- Atwell. child. 3d New Hampshire, Licut. Col. James 148th New York, Col. John B. Murray. F. Randiett. 158th New York, Lient. Col. William H. 7th New Hampshire, Lieut. Col. Angus- McNary. tus W. Rollins. 55th Pennsylvania, Capt. George H. 16th New York Heavy Artillery (six corn- Hill. panics), Lient. Freeman F. Hunt- ington. _____ * Absent on expeditiou to Fort Fisher, N. C.; Brig. Gen. .Josepll R. Hawley in command. Absent on expedition to Fort Fisher, N. C. t Detached at Bermuda Landing, Va Page 335 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. SECOND DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. ADELBEET AMES. Fir8t Brigade. Col. RUFUS DAGGETT. 3d New York, Lient. George E. Avent. 112th New York, Capt. Joseph C. Ross. 117th New York, Capt. Edward Downer. 1424 New York, Lieut. Col. Albert M. Barney. Second Brigade. Maj. OLIV n P. HARDING. 47th New York, Capt. Joseph M. MeDon aid. 48th New York, Maj. Nere A. Elfwing. 76th Pennsylvania, Maj. Charles Knerr. 97th Pennsylvania, Lient. John Wain- wright. 203d Pennsylvania, Capt. Heber B. Es- sington. Third Brigade. Lieut. Col. NATHAN J. JOHNSON. 13th Indiana (five companies), Lieut. Col. Samuel M. Zent. 9th Maine,t Col. G. Frederick Granger. 4th New Hampshire, Capt. John H. Roberts. 115th New York, Maj. Ezra LWalrath. 169th New York, Lient. Col. James A. Colvin. THIRD DiVISION. Brig. Gen. CHARLES DEVENS. Second Brigade. Lient. Col. VALENTINE G. BARNEY. 5th Maryland, Lieut. Col. William W. Bamberger. 10th New hampshire, Capt. Warren M. Keiley. 12th New hampshire, Lieut.Col.Thomas E. Barker. 96th New York, Maj. henry I. Pierce. 118th New York, Lieut. Col. Levi 5. Dom- lily. 9th Vermont, Capt. Herman Seligson. First Brigade. Col. EDGAR M. CULLEN. 11th Connecticut, Lieut. Col. Randall H. Rice. 13th New Hampshire, Lient. Col. Nor- mand Smith. 81st New York, Capt. Edward A. Stim- son. 98th New York, Lieut. Col. William Kreutzer. 139th New York, Capt. Theodore Miller. 19th Wisconsin, Maj. Samuel K. Vaughan. Third Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. Gu~ V. HENRY. 21st Connecticut, Maj. William Spittle. 40th Massachusetts, Capt. John Pollack. 2d New Hampshire, Lieut. Col. Joab N. Patterson. 58th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Cecil Clay. 188th Pennsylvania, Licut. Col. George 1K. Bowemi. INDEPENDENT DIVISION. Ilvt. Brig. Gen. THOMAs M. HARRIS. Second Brigade. Col. WILLIAM B. CURTIS. 234 Illinois (five companies)y~ Lieut. Col. Samuel A. Simison. 54th Pennsylvania, Capt. Thomas H. Lapsley. 12th West Virginia, Capt. Erastus G. Bartlett. First Brigade. Lieut. Col. THOiXIAS F. WILDES. 34th Massachusetts Potter. , Lient. Col. Andrew 116th Ohio, Maj. Wilbert B. Teters. 123(1 Ohio, Lieut. Col. Horace Kellogg. * Absent on expedition to Fort Fisher, N. C. I On detached service at Chaffins Farm, Va. Attached to P ovisional Brigade, Defenses of Bermuda Hundrod. CHAP. LVIII.] ~33 Page 336 336 N. AND SE. VA, N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~OHA~ LYIII. Third Brigade. Lieut. Col. MOSES S. Hi~L. 10th West Virginia, Capt. Morgan A. Darnall. 11th West Virginia, Capt. Dixon R. King. 15th West Virginia, Maj. Fenelon Howes. Artillery. Maj. CHARLES C. ABELL. 3d New York Light, Battery E, Capt. George B. Asliby. 3d New York Light, Battery H, Capt. William J. Riggs. 3d New York Light, Battery K, Capt. James R. Angel. 3d New York Light, Battery M, Capt. John H. Howell. New York Light, 7th Battery, Lient. Martin V. McIntyre. New York Light, 16th Battery, Capt. Richard H. Lee. New York Light, 17th Battery, Capt. George T. Anthony. 1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery A, Capt. William Stitt. 1st Rhode Island Light, Battery F, Lient. Charles E. Guild. 1st United States, Battery B, Lient. Theodore K. Gibbs. 4th United States, Battery L, Lient. Henry B. Beecher. 5th United States, Battery A, Lient. George W. Crabb. 5th United States, Battery F, Lient. Leonard Martin. TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. GODFREY WEITZRL.I FIRST DIVISION. Brig. Gen. EDWARD A. WILI~. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Byt. Brig. Gen. ALONZO G. DRAPER. Bvt. Brig. Gen. CHARLES S. RUSSELL. 22d U. S. Colored Troops, Maj. Peter 29th Connecticut Colored Troops, Col. Schlick. William B. Wooster. 36th U. S. Colored Troops, Maj. William 9th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Thomas H. Hart. Bayley. 38th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Robert 117th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Lewis M. Hall. G. Brown. 118th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. John C. Moon. Third Brigade. Brig. Gen. HENRY G. THOMAS. 19th U. S. Colored Troops, Lieut. Col. Joseph G. Perkins. 23d U. S. Colored Troops, Maj. William C. J. Hall. 43d U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Stephen B. Yeoman. Not Brigaded. 2d U. S. Colored Cavalry (dismounted), Capt. Edward P. Wilson. ~Absent on expedition to Fort Fisher, N. C. Absent since January 20; Brig. 0 en. Charles A. Heckinan terapor-arily command- ing Page 337 337 CHAP. LVIII.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM BIRNEY. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. JAMES SHAW, Jr. Col. ULYSSES DOUBLEDAY. 7th U. S. Colored Troops, Lieut. Col. 8th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Samuel Oscar E. Pratt. C. Armstrong. 109th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Orion A. 41st U. S. Colored Troops, Maj. James Bartholomew. T. Bates. 115th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Robert 45th U. S. Colored Troops (six compa- H. Earnest. nies), Lient. Col. Edelmiro 116th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. William Mayer. W. Woodward. 127th U. S. Colored Troops, Lient. Col. James Givin. Third Brigade. Col. EDWARD MARTINDALE. 28th U. S. Colored Troops, Lient. Col. Thomas 11. Logan. 29th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Clark E. Royce. 31st U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Henry C. Ward. TIllED DIVISION. Brig. Gen. CHARLES J. PAINE. First Brigade. Second Brigade.* Bvt. Brig. Gen. DELEVAN BATES. Col. JOHN W. AMES. 1st U. S. Colored Troops, * Lieat. Col. 4th U. S. Colored Troops, Lient. Col. Giles H.. Rich. George Rogers. 30th U. S. Colored Troops, Lient. Col: 6th U. S. Colored Troops, Maj. Angus- Hiram A. Oakman. tus S. Boernstein. 107th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Wil- 39th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Ozora P. ham H. Revere, Jr. Stearns. Third Brigade. Col. ELIAS WRIGHT. 5th U. S. Colored Troops, Maj. William R. Brazle. 10th U. S. Colored Troops, Lient. Col. Edward H. Powell. 27th U. S. Colored Troops, Bvt. Brig. Gen. Albert M. Blackman. 37th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. Nathan Golf, Jr. ARTILLERY BRIGADE. Lient. Col. RICHARD H. JACKSON. Connecticut Light, 1st Battery, Capt. James B. Clinton. New Jersey Light, 4th Battery, Capt. Charles R. Doane. New Jersey Light, 5th Battery, Lient. Joseph Warren. 1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery E, Capt. Henry Y. Wiidey~ 3d Rhode Island, Battery C, Lient. William A. Sabin. 1st United States, Battery D, Lient. John Lawson. 1st United States, Battery M, Capt. Loomis L. Langdon. 3d United States, Battery E, ~ Lieut. John R. Myrick. 4th United States, Battery D, Capt. Frederick M. Follett. * Absent on expedition to Fort Fisher, N. C. 22 H RYOL XLYI~ PT I Page 338 338 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CAVALRY DIVISION. Bvt. Maj. Gen. AUGUST V. KAUTZ. First Brigade. Col. ROBERT M. WEST. 20th New York (detachment), Col. Newton B. Lord. 5th Pennsylvania, Col. Robert M. West. Second Brigade. CoL SAMUEL P. SPEAR. 1st District of Columbia (four companies), Ma]. J. Stannard Baker. 11th Pennsylvania (detachment), Lient. Col. Franklin A. Stratton. Third Brigade. Col. ANDREW W. EVANS. 1st Maryland, Maj. Vincent E. von Koerber. 1st New York Mounted Rifles, Col. Edwin V. Sumner. Artillery. Wisconsin Light, 4th Battery, Capt. Dorman L. Noggle. DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED. Byt. Ma]. Gen. EDWARD FERRERO. First Briqade. Col. WILLIAM HEINE. 41st New York (six companies), Lient. Col. Detleo von Linsiedel. 103d New York, Lient. Col. Andrew Wettstein. 104th Pennsylvania (five companies), Ma]. Theophilas Kephart. Second Briqade. Maj. JAMES B. CAMPBELL. 6th New York Heavy Artillery, Maj. George C. Kibbe. 10th New York Heavy Artillery, Ma]. Seneca R. Cowles. Provisional Brigade. Col. WILLIAM M. MCCLURE. 2d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, Maj. Benjamin F. Winger. Siege Artillery.* Bvt. Brig. Gen. HENRY L. ABBOT.t 1st Connecticut Heavy, Maj. Albert F. Brooker. Connecticut Light, 3d Battery, Capt. Thomas S. Gilbert. 13th New York Heavy, Companies A and H, Capt. William Pendrell. * Permanently attached to the Army of the Potomac by Special Orders, No. 156, headquarters Armies of the United States, December 24, 1864. t Absent on leave; Ma]. George B. Cook, 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery, tem- porarily commanding Page 339 Cni~. LVIH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 339 Acting Pontoniers. 3d Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, Company I, Capt. John Pickering, jr. SEPARATE BRIGADE. Brig. Gen. JOSEPH B. CARR. Fort Pocahontas. Maj. WILLIAM H. TANTUM. 38th New Jersey (four companies), Maj. William H. Tanturn. 16th New York Heavy Artillery (two companies), Capt. Henry C. Thompson 20th New York Cavalry (one company), Capt. Wayland F. Ford. New York Light Artillery, 33d Battery, Capt. Alger M. Wheeler. H rrisons Landinn. Col. WARDWELL G. ROBINSON. 184th New York, Lieut. Col. William P. McKinley. 1st U. S. Colored Cavalry (one company), Capt. David Yandervoort. Port Powhatan. Col. WILLIAM J. SEWELL. 38th New Jersey (detachment), Lieut. Col. Ashhel W. Angel. 1st U. S. Colored Cavalry (one company), Capt. Charles W. Emerson. 3d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery (detachment), Lieut. Frederick Grill. DISTRICT OF EASTERN VIRGINIA. Brig. Gen. GEORGE F. SHEPLEY. Defenses of Norfolk and Portsmouth. Brig. Gen. ISRAEL VOGDES. 2d U. S. Volanteers (five companies), Lieut. Col. Charles C. G. Thornton. 3d New York Cavalry, Col. George W. Lewis. 1st U. S. Colored Cavalry (detachment), Col. Jeptha Garrard. 2d Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, 3d Battalion, Capt. Fred A. Lull. New York Light Artillery, 5th Battery, Capt. Peter Morton. 13th New York Heavy Artillery (detachment), Col. William A. Howard. 2d U. S. Colored Light Artillery, Battery B, Capt. Francis C. Choate. Fort Monroe. Col. JOSEPH ROBERTS. 3d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery (battalion), Col. Joseph Roherts. Eastern Shore. Lieut. Col. FRANK J. WHITE. 1st Virginia Loyal, Company A, Lieut. Oliver G. Thomas. Purnell Legion (Maryland) Cavalry, Company A, Lient. Joseph W. Strong. 20th New York Cavalry, Company E, Capt. Patrick Fitzpatrick. 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company L, Lieut. Robert I. Robinson. 3d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery (detachment), Lieut. Alplieus H. Bowman. Newport News. Lieut. Col. LOREN BURRITT. 1st U. S. Colored Cavalry (detachment), Lient. Col. Loren Burritt Page 340 340 N. AND SE. VA., N. C., W. VA., Ml)., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Fort Magruder. Col. JOSEPH J. MORRISON. 4th Massachusetts Cavalry, Company G, Capt. E4ward T. Boav6. 20th New York Cavalry, Company H, Lient. John D. Lee. 1st New York Monnted Rifles, Company G, Lient. David Earle. 1st U. S. Colored Cavalry, Company A, Capt. Charles W. Dey. 1st U. S. Colored Cavalry, Company H, Lient. Frank A. Smith. 16th New York Heavy Artillery (four companies), Col. Joseph J. Mjrrison. Unattached. 2d Battalion U. S. Veteran Reserve Corps (five companies), Lient. James L. Russell. Abstract from return of the Middle Military Division, Maj. Gen. Philip II. Sheridan, U. S. Army, commanding,for the month of January, 1865. Present for duty. Connuand. 0 General headquarters (Sheridan): Staff Infantry Cavalry Detachment of Signal Corps. Total Department of Washington (Augur): Staff and infantry Cavalry Artillery...... Sgml b~ps Total Department of Pennsylvania (Cad. walader): Staff and infantry Artillery Detachment of Signal Corps Total Middle Department (Wallace): Staff and infantry Cavalry Artillery Total Department of West Virginia (Crook): Staff and infantry Cavalry Artillery Total Nineteenth Army Corps (Emory): Staff and infantry Artillery Total Cavalry forces (Torhert): Staff and cavalry Artillery Total 19 7 21 S 66 157 105 a be 19 279 450 116 0 a a a0 be Pieces of artillery. Headquarters. 19 473 809 154 57 528 864 1,455 396 10, 817 14, 165 16, 717 112 3,281 4,374 5,188 300 10, 356 12, 666 14, 810 759 297 6 64 71 75 904 24,518 31,278 36,810 759 297 75 460 744 1,901 75 7 1 84 97 206 S 2 58 61 69 78 602 902 2, 170 75 15 68 1, 925 2, 373 3, 630 12 103 332 546 6 203 272 139 86 2,431 2,977 4,485 265 6,848 8,099 11,106 116 3, 521 4, 103 5,145 48 2,761 2,986 4,115 32 66 429 13,132 15,388 20,366 32 66 260 4,764 5,940 9 956 12 599 635 7651 26 272 5,363 6,575 10,721 26 436 12,206 16,893 28,477 24 027 756 916 32 460 12,833 17,649 29,39:1 32 Grand total 2, 286 59,407 75, 633 J1O5~ 406 866 436 Winchester, Vs. Washington, D. C. Philadelphia, Pa. Baltimore, Md. Cuniberland, Md. In the field, Va. Winchester, Va Page 341 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 341 Abstract from return of the Department of the East, Afaj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding, for January, 1865. Present for -~ a duty. ~ a ;~ a 5 a a Command. ~,n a cs ~ w w.- o a a ~i2 ~ a 0 ~ General headquarters 114 114 115 City and harbor of New York (Hunt) 39 1, 326 1, 792 2, 612 Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Sea-coast Defenses (Floyd 42 1, 260 1, 631 1 731 315 Jones.) Defenses of Portsmouth Harhor and Maine Sea-coast 18 509 570 680 Military District of Northern New York (Rohinson) 12 246 310 558 Military District of Western New York (Diven) 67 1, 102 2, 045 3, 312 Other forts 14 865 1, 084 1, 136 Total 306 5,508 7546 10,144 315 WASHING-TON, D. C., February 1, 18659.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your mili- tary movements or plans. A. LINCOLN. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 186512.30 p. rn. (Received 2.20 p. in.) President A. LINCOLN: Your dispatch received. There will be no armistice in consequence of the presence of Mr. Stephens and others within our lines. The troops are kept in readiness to move at the shortest notice, if occasion should justify it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 186510 p. m. (Via Fort Mollroe, Va., 10.20 a. m. 2d.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, & eretary of War: In reply to the letters delivered by me to Messrs. Stephens, Camp- bell, and llniiter, they give a copy of their instructions from Jefferson Davis, which I think is a verbatiln copy of that now in the Presidents possession. Am positive abont the last two wor(ls, which differ from the ending of copy delivered by me, and to which the President called my particular attention. After giving object of conference, they add: Our instructions contemplate a personal interview with President Lincoln at Washington, hut with this explanation we are ready to meet any person or persons that President Lincoln may appoint at such place as he may designate. Onr earnest desire is that a just and honorable peace may be agreed upon, and we nrL1 prepared to receive or to submit propositions which may possibly lead to the attainment of that end. ALEX. H. STEPHENS. R. M. T. HUNTER. J. A. CAMPBELL. Maj. Gen. John J. Peck second in command Page 342 (CRAP. LVIII. 342 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. They say the ending of letter I (lelivered to them is the oniy objec- tionable point, and one that, in their opinion, should be left out of both the letter they bring and the one they received, adding, if they accept the latter, and terms are not agreed upon, it would be an acknowledgment that might prejudice the interests of the people they represent. THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, d~c. The above written at City Point February 1, but on account of line being out of order, was brought to Fort Monroe, and telegraphed from there. The line is now in order. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 186510 p. m. His Excellency A. LINCOLN, President of the United States: I have the honor to report the delivery of your communication and my letter at 4.15 this afternoon, to which I received a reply at 6p.m., but not satisfactory. At 8 p. m. the following note addressed to General Grant was received: CITY PoINT, VA., February 1, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: SIR: We desire to go to Washington City to confer informally with the President personally, in reference to the matters mentioned in his letter to Mr. Blair of the 18th of January nltimo, without any personal compromise on any question in the letter. We have the permission to do so from the authorities in Richmond. Very respectfully, yours, ALEX. H. STEPHENS. R. M. P. HUNTER. J. A. CAMPBELL. At 9.30 p. m. I notified them that they could not proceed frirther unless they complied with the terms expressed in my letter. The point of meeting designated in above note would not, in my opinion, be insisted upon. I think Fort Monroe would be acceptable. Having complied with my instructions I will return to-morrow unless other- wise ordered. THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, & c. FORT MONROE, February 1, 186511.30 p. rn. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: I arrived here at 10 oclock this evening, and shall remain here to meet the persons from Richmond. Send Major Eckert here, if he is with you. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 186510.30 p. rn. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Now that the interview between Major Eckert, under his written instructions, and Mr. Stephens and party has ended, 1 will state con- fidentially, but not officially to become a matter of record, that I am con- vinced, upon conversation with Messrs. Stephens and Hunter, that thei Page 343 CHAP. LYIIJ.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 343 intentions are good and their desire sincere to restore peace and union. I have not felt myself at liberty to express even views of my own or to account for my reticency. This has placed me in an awkward position, which I could have avoided by not seeing them in the first instance. I fear now their going back without any expression from any one in authority will have a bad influence. At the same time I recognize the difficulties in the way of receiving these informal commissioners at this time, and do not know what to recommend. I am sorry, however, that Mr. Lincoln cannot have an interview with the two named in this dis- patch, if not all three now within our lines. Their letter to me was all that the Presidents instructions contemplated, to secure their safe con- duct, if they had used the same language to Major Eckert. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WA5HLNGTOIN, D. C., February 1, 1865. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: Meade confirmed by a heavy vote. Please telegraph me when you will be here. I may have to go to Norfolk on a committee of investi- gation, but do not want to leave till you come. E. B. WASIIBUIINE. FEBRUARY 1, 1865. Maj. Gen. J. 0-. PARKE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Two deserters from the Sixth Virginia Infantry, Weisigers brigade, Mahones division, came into the lines of the Second Cavalry Division about 9 p. m. yesterday. They left their regiment about four miles this side of Belfield last Sunday morning about 9 o2clock. They state that Mahones division left camp last Wednesday, and it was expected that it was to go to North Carolina. It camped four miles this side of Bel- field, and on Sunday morning the order of march was countermanded and the entire division started back toward Petersburg again. Inform- ants left their brigade on the return march and came into our lines by the Weldon railroad. Their brigade was the rear of the column, and they are certain all five brigades of the division started on the way back. They report the track down seven miles this side of Belfield, and very poorly put down. The same rails have been used that were torn up. Did not pass the bridge over Nottoway, and cannot say whether it is repaired or riot. JNO. C. BABCOCK. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 51. * Washington, February 1, 1865. * * * * * 61. Bvt. Brig. 0-en. William Hoffman, U. S. Army, commissary-gen- eral and inspector of prisoners of war, will relieve Brig. 0-en. II. W. Wessells, U. S. Volunteers, in charge of the office of the commissary- general of prisoners, in the city of Washington. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 344 344 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Cnip. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, General ~. WILLIAMS, February 1, 186510.35 a. m. Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 1, 186512.20 p. m. Colonel DUANE, Chief Engineer: I find from report of one of my aides that the new Fort Fisher is in such condition that it completely obstructs the fire of old Fort Fisher, and is not ready for any guns and will not be ready for more than one gun by night; this, notwithstanding my caution to Major Williams to conduct the work in such a manner that it should not be an obstruction to the defense at that point, but that at least a part of the guns in the old work might be transferred to the front and left flank of the new as soon as their fire began to be obscured. I beg that you will have a more constant supervision and direction of the work by some officer of engineers, if I am not in error in supposing that it has been left chiefly to an officer of the Fourth New York Artillery A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 1, 1865. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS: GENERAL: An officer of engineers visits the works on new Fort Fisher every day. The masking of the gnus at old Fort Fisher is unavoidable. J. C. DUANE, Major of Engineers and Brevet Colonel. U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 1, 18651.20 p. m. Colonel DUANE, Chief Engineer: I must differ from you. The length of time that the new work has obstructed and probably will obstruct the fire of the old might, I believe, have been, and may be, much shortened. A. A. HUMPHItEYS, Major-General, Commanding Page 345 CHAP. LVIII.] 345 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 1, l8G55 .20 p. m. Colonel DUANE, Chief of Engineers: I find the new Fort Fisher will be arranged for four guns to-night, which will make it all right. A. A. HUMPUHEYS, Major- General, Commanding. CONFIDENTIAL HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, CIRCULAR. 5 February 1, 13G5. Division commanders will hold themselves in readiness to move at very brief notice, with six days rations ou hand, the meat ratiou being two of salt beef and four of fresh beef on the hoof respecting the collec- tion of which instructions have been given to the chief commissary of subsistence of the corps. No orders, however, for any change in the usual issue of rations to the troops will be made until further instruc- tions from these headquarters. in the event of any movement taking place orders similar to those issued December 7, 1864, will be promulgated in respect to ammuni- tion, supplies, and trains to accompany the troops. All other trains will be sent to the rear within the lines at City Point. Special orders will be given the commanding officer First Division in relation to the disposition of the troops that will be designated to hold the intrenchments where his division is now posted. Rations and ammunition as specified on a former occasion will be supplied to them. By order of Major-General Humphreys: SEPT. CAENCHOSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Bvt. Maj. Gen. INELSON A. MILES, February 1, 18G5. (ommanding First Division: GENERAL: Having learned that the new Fort Fisher is in such con- dition as to require that an infantry force sufficient for its defense should be assigned to it, the commanding general desires that you will please make such assignment of additional troops to the fort as will increase its garrison to 300 privates, and that you report who is in command of the garrison. I am, geucral, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistdnt Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, Bvt. Brig. Gen. GEORGE N. MACY, February 1, 1865. Commanding First .Brigade: GENERAL: I am directed to inform you that in case of a movement of the division the One hundred and sixteenth Pennsylvania Volu Page 346 346 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIfI. teers has been ordered to report to Maj. N. Church, Twenty-sixth Mich- igan Volunteers, for garrison duty at Fort Fisher. This will increase the garrison of that work to about 300 muskets. In the meantime, if necessity should require that the fort should be manned, a detail of 150 men from the Sixty-first New York Volunteers will be made by you for that purpose. Very respectfully, R. A. BItOWN, illiajor and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 1, 1865. Lient. Col. S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, February 1, 1865. Division commanders will hold their commands in readiness to move at very short notice, provided with six days rations. By command of Brevet Major-General Getty: C. II. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SIXTH CORPS, February 1, 1865. Capt. C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General, Sixth Corps: CAPTAIN: In reply to your communication of this date, -I have the honor to report two small forts in the rear lineviz, McMahon and Davisonas the only ones at present garrisoned by this division, the garrison in each being twenty-five men. Fort Howard and Batteries 25 and 26 were garrisoned in December. when under the command of General Humphreys, the strength of each being alike, viz, 150 men. The extra ammunition ordered to be stored in these last-named works for the garrisons, pickets, and reserve force was returned to the divis- ion ordnance storehouse, as the magazines were defective. The par- ticular garrisons for the works in the front line, and the officer to com- mand each, in the event of a movement, were then designated and placed under command of Colonel Allen, Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, now on leave. The removal of the ammunition from the magazines was by order of the chief ordnance officer, headquarters Army of the Poto- mac. Very respectfully, F. WHEATON, Brevet Major- General, U. S. Volunteers Page 347 CHAP. LVIII] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 347 C ENERAL ORDURS, HDQRS. THiRD BRIG., FiiisT Div., SIXTH ARMY CORPS, No. 8. ) February 1, 1865. I. Byt. Brig. Gen. Joseph E. Hamblin, 15. 5. Volunteers, having by virtue of Special Orders, No. 23, headquarters First Division, Sixth Army Corps, been assigned to this brigade, hereby assumes command. The orders now in existence will remain as heretofore until otherwjse directed. * * * * * * * By order of Brevet Brigadier-General Hamblin: JAMES W. LATTA, A8sistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CoRPS, February 1, 1865. (Received 6 p. in.) Brevet Major-General WEBE: Will General Parke return to these headquarters this evening ~ 0. B. WILLCOX, Brevet Major- General. General Parke left here one and a half hours ago. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 1, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. H. J. HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that at about 11 oclock yes- terday forenoon a section of the Sixth Maine Battery, Captain Rogers, opened upon a large working party of the enemy, compelling them to leave. At about 2.30 p. m. the 30-pounder Parrotts in Fort MeGilvery opened upon a working party to the left of the Goose Neck (rebel) battery; after firing a few rounds it was vigorously replied to by the five guns in Goose Neck, and all the mortar batteries bearing upon that fort. Their fire was returned by all the guns in Battery T and Fort McGilvery. The firing continued about three hours. I have no casual- ties to report among the artillery and but twQ killed and four wounded among the infantry. At about 3 oclock the enemy opened fire to the front of Fort Stedman and Battery 10; they were replied to by the Nineteenth New York Battery, but very little damage was done by the enemys fire. 1 have the honor to be, general, very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, R. B. I~JCKETTS, Major, Commanding Brigade. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 18654.30 p. m. Major-General ORD: I think it will be advisable, on relieving General Shepley from com- mand in Norfolk, to place General Vogdes in his place. He is next in rank in that command and is an old brigadier-general, and as he is a Page 348 348 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CHAP. LVIII. old Army officer, expecting to spend his days in the service, an honest administration can better be expected from him than from an untried officer who does not intend to remain iii the service. I do not order this selection, but advise it, and would recommend its being made early. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, February 1, 18656 jp. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: GENERAL: Inquire of any officer of the Army who has ever served with General Vogdes in the field or in garrison his fitness for command, and I am sure you will change your mind. He would bring us into con- tempt. E. 0. C. ORD, iFliajor- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, lSGJ7p. m. Major-General ORD: Do not give General Yogdes the command of Norfolk if you deem him unfit for it. You know him better than I do. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, February 1, 18656.20 p. m. (Received 6.25 p. in.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT; I propose ordering at once General Yogdes to relieve Genera] Gordon on the commission; General Gordon to relieve General Shepley; and the latter to report for duty, when the court of which he is president adjourns, to General Weitzel, if von approve. E. 0. C. ORD, ]Iliajor- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 1865. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. ORD: Your dispatch of 6.20 p. m. received. The changes you propose are approved. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JN0. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, February 17 18656.50 p. m. Maj. Gen. E.G. C. ORD: Major-General Terry, commanding Fort Fisher, says that there are here, besides detachments of regiments and companies with him, tw Page 349 CRAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 regiments belonging to the division and brigade organizations with him. You will please send them forward, as well as the detachments heretofore ordered, to join their respective commands at Fort Fisher. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, Brigadier- Ge teral and Chief of Staff. February 1, 18657.10 p. m. Brigadier-General iRAWLINS, Chief of StajJ City Point: All regiments and detachments belonging to General Terrys com- mand have been ordered to join him. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General. OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, ARMIES OPERATiNG AGAINST RICHMOND, February 1, 1865. Lientenant-ColoIlel MANNING, Headquarters Army of the James: Come down to-morrow instead of to-day. We understand the posi- tion of the enemy on the north side to be as follows: Garys brigade of cavalry between the New Bridge and Williamsbnrg roads; Brattons and Greggs brigades between Williamsburg and Charles City roads; Andersons and Laws between Charles City and Darbytown roads; Bennings, flnmphreys, and Bryans between Darbytown and New Market roads; then Woffords imear the last-named road~ Corse on Woffords right, next the Local Defense Troops; next Walkers old brigade, of ileths division, now commanded by Barton, ext ending to the river- three brigades of Picketts between the Appomattox and James. If there are any deserters received by you last night or dur- ing to-day and to-night please examine them immediately and let me know the resnlt. If you get anything confirming or changing the above let me know. For the enemys position on the south side, ask General Ord for a niap furnished by me to him. SHARPE, Colonel. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, No.17. ) In the Field, February 1, 1865. Lient. Col. F. L. Manning, One hundred and forty-eighth New York Volunteers, is hereby announced as provost-marshal-general of the Army of the James. The provost-marshals of the different commands will render to him such reports as he may from time to time require. By command of Major-General Ord: ED. W. SM[TH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 350 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. 350 (CHAP. LVIII. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIRST Div., 24TH ARMY CORPS, No. 8. In the Field, 17a., February 1, 1865. In compliance with Special Orders, No. 31, headquarters Twenty- fourth Army Corps, dated February 1, 186~, the undersigned assumes command of the First Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps. H. S. FOSTER, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers. WILSONS WHARF, February 1, 1865. General TURNER, Iliead quarters Army of the James: There are no indications of the enemy in the vicinity of the post on either side of the river. The cavalry from this post are recounoitehug near Jones Bridge, on the Chickahominy. Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, February 1, 1865. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division, Winchester, Twa.: GENERAL: The accompanying memorandunl* has been furnished to this Department by the Secretary of State, to be forwardcd to you for delivery to Henry S. Foote. You will please, therefore, deliver it to him. You will ascertain from Mr. Foote whether he desires to return to Richmond, or to go beyond the jurisdiction of the United States. If he wishes to go to Richmond you will please immediately send him beyond your lines. If, however, he desires to go beyond the j urisdic- tion of the United States you will scud him, in charge of an officer, to Major-General Dix, at New York, to whom directions will be given to carry into effect Mr. Footes purpose to leave the country. Your obedient servant, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CHARLESTON, W. VA., February 1, 1865. Maj. ROBERT P. KENNEDY, Asst. Adjt. Gem, Dept. of West Virginia, Cumberiand, Md.: Scouts report large rebel force arrived at Lewisburg from Valley. Some say Rosser, others Breckinridges old division. Do reports from Valley indicate this l Information conflicting. JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding First Separate Brigade. *Not found Page 351 CHAP, LYIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 351 Lou~ CREEK Februar? Col. J. II. OLEY, J h 1865. Commanding, ct~c., Charleston: One of my scouts that came in to-night reports that citizens living near Horse Shoe say that Rossers division and Echols brigade are~ at Lewisburg. From all I can learn I think this report is correct. I do not think they have yet left Lewisburg. All is quiet toward Raleigh. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, Commanding Post. Capt. ~. WHITLEY, CHARLESTON, W. VA., February 1, 1865. Loup Creek: Make every exertion to get reliable information. From other infor- mation that I have I can hardly believe that any very large force is at Lewisburg. I heard some time since that some cavalry and artillery were expected in Greenbrier, Monroe, & c., to remain awhile on account of forage. Be on the alert. Take every precaution, and communicate freely to me. How far out have you had scouts to-day~ Have you heard from Captain Ramsay ~ JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding. Lou~ CREEK, February 1, 1865. Col. J. H. OLEY: My scouts havejust returned from Captain Manns. The captain him. self was out on a scout. The sergeant in command reports that they positively know that two brigades of rebels are in Greenbrier County, one of cavalry and one of infantry. Four batteries were ordered to go to the Narrows of New River. I shall receive further information from Captain Mann in the course of the day. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, Commanding. Lou~ CREEK, February 1, 1865. Lient. Col. J. S. PLATNER, Commanding Camp Piatt: I have information that a large rebel force is in Greenbrier County. They declare that they intend to invade the Valley. I think from the large force which is reported that they will make work for ns within a day or two. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, 6ommanding Post. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. MID. DEPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 20. Baltimore, hId., February 1, 1865. in obedience to paragraph 52, Special Orders, No. 47, War Depart- ment, Adjutant-Generals Office, January 30, 1865, I hereby assume coin- mand of the Middle Department durimig the temporary absence of Maj, (len. Lew. Wallace, U. S. Volunteers. W. W. MORRIS, Brevet Brigadier- General, U. S. Army Page 352 352 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. BOSTON, MASS., February 1, 1865. (Received 10 a. in.) His Excellency A. LINCOLN, President of the United States: Will you telegraph so that I will know as nearly as possible the moment you will sign the resolution for amending the Constitution. I desire to echo it immediately by a national salute on Boston Common, with a chorus of all the church bells of Massachusetts. JOHN A. ANDREW, Governor. WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 18659 a. m. Hon. W. H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.: Induced by a dispatch of General Grant, I join yoti at Fort Monroe so soon as I can come. A. LINCOLN. WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 18659 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Mon- roe as soon as I can get there. A. LINCOLN. CITY POINT, February 2, 18659 a. m. (Received 9.30 a. in.) SECRETARY OF STATE, Fort Monroe: The gentlemen here have accepted the proposed terms and will start for Fort Monroe at 9.30 a~ m. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Copy to Secretary of War, Washington.) FORT MONROE, VA., February 2, 18657 p. m. (Received $ p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Richmond party here. President Lincoln not arrived. I do not recognize them nntil he conies. WM. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State. FORT MONROE, VA., February 2, 186511.30 p. in. (Received 1.20 a. m. 3d.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have the honor to report the arrival of the President at 10.30 p. in., and is now with Mr. Seward on board the River Queen. The interview will take place in the morning. The vessels of both parties are anchored half a mile out from dock. THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, & c Page 353 Criii~. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 353 FORT MONROE, February 2, 186511.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: I arrived here at 9 oclock this a. m. Mr. Seward expresses his sat- isfaction of course pursued in reply to letters received yesterday. He came here on strength of first letter you received, on which you admitted them within your lines. From that it was believed they would accept the terms; therefore started at once, to save delay. Mr. Seward desires me to say to you confidentially, general, message just received stating the President left Washington at 9 oclock this a. m. for Fort Monroe. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major, & c. CITY POINT, VA., February 2, 1865. Maj. Gen. A. E. BURNSIDE, Providence, P. L: The lieutenant-general commanding directs me to say to you that he has received your dispatch of this date, asking for permission to see him at City Point on Sunday next, and answered it by telegraph in the negative. He further directs me to say to you that he asked to have you put in temporary command of the Middle Department during the absence of Maj. Gen. Lew. Wallace, and supposed it had been so ordered, but from the caption of your dispatch infers that it has not~ and that such being the state of the case he has at present no command to which he can assign you, or duty on which to order you, without i~iak- ing changes it is not desirable should be made. E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Military & cretary. CITY POINT, VA., February 2, 1865. Major-General MEADE: I am happy to state to you that I am just in receipt of a dispatch from Washington announcing your confirmation as major-general in the Regular Army by a heavy majority. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 2, 186511.15 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Many thanks for your kind telegram. Be assured I shall ever most gratefully remember your kindness on this and other occasions. GEG. G. MEADE, Major. General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 6. February 2, 1865. Col. George ID. Ruggles, additional aide-de-camp and assistant adju- tallt-general, U. S. Army, having reported in obedience to Special Orders, No. 47, current series, from the Adjutant-Generals Office, is assigned to duty at these headquarters and announced as chief of the adjutant- generals department of this army. By command of Major.General Meade: S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant. Gen~eral. 23 R RYOL XLVI, PT I Page 354 354 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 2, 1865. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: No change in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. Two guns of Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, have been moved out of old Fort Fisher and forwarded into the nearly com- pleted bastions of the new work. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 2, 18657.50 p. m. Colonel DUANE, Chief Engineer: Do you intend putting a fraise around new Fort Fisher ~ In addition to it I wish you would have a wire entanglement. The two picket-lines are very close to the work, and driving away the enemy~5 pickets will bring on constant firing. The work in its present transition state is, of course, less secure than at any other time, and, if it can be done, 1 would like the fraise and entanglement put up without waiting for the com- pletion of the parapets, & c. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 2, 1865. Cob GEORGE D. RUGGLE$, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: COLONEL: I have the honor to forward the following report of the number of men of this command who have been tried for desertion, the number found guilty, the number sentenced to be shot, and the number shot during the month of Jannary, 1865: 0 a. 4~0 4~ 0 Command. -~ ~ a ~ ,~ ~ ;~ a a a 0 0 0 3 S u a u a ;~ z z z. Artillery Brigade 2 (a) First Division 7 2 Second Division 3 3 1 b 1 Third Division 17 1 Total 29 6 1 1 a Not published. b Executed January 6, 1865. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding Page 355 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 355 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 2, 1865. Byt. Brig. Gen. G. W. WEST, Corps Officer of the Day: GENERAL: The commanding general desires me to notify you that the signal officer of the corps has reported to him that the enemy have doubled their picket opposite the Boswell house this (lay. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 2, 1865. Colonel RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet Major. General. HEADQUARTERS MNTH ARMY CORPS, February 2, 1865. (Received 10.55 a. in.) Byt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB Chief of StXff: Nothing unusual along our lines during the past twenty-four hours. The picket officer along the Appomattox reports that about 2 a. m. sharp picket-firing was heard on other side of river. Some cannonad- ing now going on on right of our line. Nothing unusual, but as yet no report. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, February 2, 1865. (Received 5.35 p. in.~ Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Richmond Sentinel of February 2 contains the following: The attention of all is called to the appeal of General Lee in another column urg- ing the delivery to Confederate States officers of all arms and cavalry equipment in the hands of citizens. South Caroiina.The news from Charleston of the enemys movements indicate that Augusta and Branchville are the points aimed at. The Twentieth Army Corps is at Robertsville, fifty miles above Savannah and five miles from the river. A heavy force of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, believed to be composed of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Army Corps, is said to be encamped near the junction of the Salke- hatchie and old Union road. On the 30th the enemy, with artillery and infantry, ad- vanced from White Point and drove in our skirmish line three miles, to Kings Creek. Our infantry afterward advanced and drove the enemy back to White Point, re-estab- lishing the picket-line. On the 31st the enemy made a demonstration on the position, defending the pontoon bridge over the Salkehatchie, but without result. It is reported that they burnt the village of MePhersonville, five miles southwest of Pocoraligo, on the night of the 30th. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General Page 356 356 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, VA., February 2, 186511 a. m. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. Onn: If you have not already put Gordon in command at Norfolk I will order C. C. Washburn there. He made the best commander for West Tennessee we have ever had. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., F 2, 1865. Maj. Gen. E.G. C. ORD, Commanding Army of the James: By information received from Richmond, I learn that on the last occasion when your cavalry went out they could have gone into Rich- mond without opposition if they had attempted it. From the Nine- Mile road into the city there is but little at present to resist an advance. I wish you would have this matter investigated as far as you can with- out attracting the attention of the enemy to it, and also get such infor- mation as you can of the condition of the roads which would have to be traversed to get from your position by the enemys left and on the railroads running north from Richmond. If this weather continues for a feW days I think of making such a move. You would be re-enforced in that case with one corps from the Army of the Potomac, and a second corps would be held in readiness to join you if any considerable force should be taken from Petersburg to go against you. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, February 2, 18651 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States, City Point, Va.: The only fighting force that I now have here is cavalry. I believe that I could spare a division, but it will increase the feeling of insecurity which the sending off of the infantry produced; then General Crook wants more cavalry. The indications now are that the enemy will get together a considerable force of cavalry in the spring. I have now 10,000 cavalry in pretty good condition, and in another month it will be in excellent condition. I would like to comply with your wishes, and if the division is much needed it would perhaps be best to take a little risk. I delayed one day in replying to your telegram, as I was review- ing the cavalry and wished to see it before sending an answer. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, February 2, 186512 m. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Major-General Stahel is in Baltimore in the same fix that General MeCook was, and asks for orders. Shall I relieve him and order him t Page 357 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.ITNION. 357 report by letter to the Adjutant-General of the Army ~ General Max Weber and General Sullivan are both at Hagerstown, off duty. I have some splendid young officers who could well fill these places. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. WASIIIWTON, D. C., February 2, 18653.40 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.: General Stahel will be mustered out to-day. The other two men- tioned in your telegram cannot be disposed of at present. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Brigadier-General DEVIN, February 2, 1865. Commanding Cavalry, Lovettsville: You must always keep yourself well informed by scouting parties well out. Let these scouting parties burn all forage south of the Lees- bnrg and Snickersville pike, but the most rigid discipline must be exercised to prevent waiitonness or bad condnct toward women and children. No dwelling wili be burned at present, but if the guerrilla warfare is to be maintained in that section of the country, it must be desolated, as the country is from Alexandria to Brandy Station; but I will give the orders when the time comes. Those who aid and abet robbers and murderers must go back to the Richmond authorities as the authors of their hardships and sufferings. The Confederate author- ities sustain these bands and approve their infamous acts of murder and robbery. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, February 2, 1865. Major-General CROOK, Commanding Department of West Virginia: When I suggested that an infantry regiment should be sent to New Creek, it was for the purpose of garrisoning that place and relieving the cavalry regiment now there from all garrison duty, so that if it should be necessary to have a movable force, you could use the whole of the cavalry regiment, and the regiment of infantry could protect the post and the cavalry camp, wagons, & c.; as it is now a portion of your -cavalry has to remain at New Creek to protect that place and their camps. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 358 358 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CUMBERLAND, February 2, 1865. Col. JOHN II. OLEY, Charleston, W. Va.: The following has just been received from General Sheridan, and is sent for your information: On the 19th of January General Earlys headquarters were at Staunton. On that day General McCauslands brigade passed through Staunton en route to West Vir- ginia. The whole of Lomaxs division, not exceeding 1,000 men, have been ordered to West Virginia, and have got there by this time. On the 21st Echols brigade, 400 strong, was sent by railroad from Lynchburg, by Virginia and East Tennessee road, to Dublin Station. Rosser has about 400 men in camp seven miles from Staunton, on the Jackson River railroad. Fitz Lees headquarters are at Waynesborough; nearly all of his division and Rossers have been disbanded for the winter, to report in March next. Some few of Fitz Lees men are at Orange Court-House and a few troops at Staunton and Lynchburg. Some little artillery and two brigades of infantry at Fishersyille. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. By command of Major-General Crook: ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CHARLESTON, W. VA., February 2, 1865. Maj. ROBERT P. KENNEDY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of West Virginia, Cumberland, Md.: General Sheridans dispatch received. My information to-day is that a brigade each of cavalry and infantry are now in Greenbrier and Monroe. Four batteries reported gone to Narrows; think this too large, but some there. The forces are considerably scattered, gather- ing forage and supplies. Think no move this way is contemplated at present. Supplies the main object. Consider the above reliable. Feel confident none this side of Meadow Bluff yet. Shall I order Captain Furst to Cumberland? JOHN II. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding First & yarate Brigade. Lou~ CREEK, February 2, 1865. Col. J. II. OLEY, (ommanding, & e., Charleston: Captain Mann reports that there are certainly two brigades in Greenbrier and Monroe Counties and four batteries at the Narrows of New River. IRosser is said to be in Bath with 1,200 men. A deserter that came in yesterday says that he saw two soldiers at Lewisburg (which he was acquainted with) from Rossers command. They reported that Itosser was about forty miles from Lewisburg, in Bath County. I think his story is correct. It is a week ago since he passed through Lewisburg. J. WHITLEY, JR., 6aptain, Commanding Post Page 359 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNiON. 359 CHARLESTON, W VA., February 2, 1865. Captain WHITLEY, Loup Creek, W. Va.: Information just received from General Sheridans headquarters partly confirms your intelligence. The number is not reported over 1,500. Be very vigilant and keep your scouts well out, but I do not think a move is contemplated at present. JOHN II. OLEY, Colonel, Connnanding. Lou~ CREEK, February 2, 1865. Col. J. II. OLEY, Commanding, cf~e., Charleston: My scouts from the Lewisbnrg road have returned. They report that General Echols is at Lewisburg with his brigade of infantry, and the Fourteenth Virginia Cavalry is distributed in the neighborhood. Five other regiments of cavalry, under General McCausland, are in Greenbrier and Monroe. This report I think is correct. There is a rebel picket reported to be on the Flat Top. The rebel scouts were at Horse Shoe yesterday just after my scouts left that place. J. WHITLEY, JR., Captain, Commanding Post. CAMP PIATT, February 2, 1865. Capt. J. M. RIFE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, ~Jharleston: Captain Whitley reports as follows: That he has what he calls posi- tive information that there are two brigades of rebels in Greenbrier and Monroe, also four batteries at the Narrows of New River. Rosser is said to be in Bath County with 1,200 men. They are now gathering in forage and supplies in the above-named counties. JOHN S. PLATNER. Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. CHARLESTON, W. VA., February 2, 1865. Lieutenant-Colonel PLATNER, Commanding First New York Cavalry, Camp Piatt: The arrival of a considerable force of rebels at Lewisburg is con- firmed by information from General Sheridans headquarters. Keep everything in trim, officers and men at their posts, and take every pre- caution necessary. JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding. WINCHESTER, February 2, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICER MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, Ilaltimore: The major-general commanding directs that you order 400 men, with proper officers, from the consolidated Maryland regiments to report without (lelay to Brigadier-General Schoepf, commanding Fort Dela- ware. Please acknowledge. C. KINGSBURY, JR., Ass.istant Adjutant- General Page 360 360 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. LYJIL BALTIMORE F Colonel KINO~EURY, , ebruary 2, 1865. Assistant Adjutant- General, Winchester: The telegram in relation to the Maryland regiment is received, and will meet with prompt attention. This will leave but one company of infantry with General Tyler. In absence of the general: OLIVER MATTHEWS, Assistant Adjutant- General. BALTIMORE, February 2, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Winchester, Va.: Brevet Brigadier-Genera.l Morris having been assigned to the com- mand of the department, I respectfully report for orders. JULIUS STAHEL, Major- General of Volunteers. BALTIMORE, February 2, 1865. Brigadier-General FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Winchester: Please send your orders about Ma.jor-General Stahel. W. W. MORRIS, Brevet Brigadier- General. FORT MONROE, VA., February 3, 18653 p. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, (Received 4 p. in.) Secretary of War: The President directs me to say the conference has closed, and both parties preparing to return. We shall leave here on steamer River Queen at 4.30 p. m. The President requests that you will please arrange for a train to be in readiness at Annapolis at 7 a. m. to-mor- row. THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, d~c. FORT MONROE, February 3, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The President directs me to say that Mr. Stephens had some conver- sation with him on the subject of prisoners, and that he referred the matter to you, and desires that you confer with Mr. Stephens on the subject. The interview has concluded and both parties preparing to return. THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, & c Page 361 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 361 CITY POINT, February 3, 18653 p. m. Major-General MEADE: Stephens and party will return here to-night, and will be sent to you by the 10 a. in. train to-morrow, to be passed through the lines as they came. Please notify the commanding officer on the front of the enemy where they will go through of the fact, so that preparations may be made to receive them. U. S. GRANT. ALEXANDRIA, February 3, 186511.45 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: I will start at 6 a. in. to-morrow, and hope to get through the ice by to-morrow evening. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 3, 18659.30 p. m. General M. C. MEIGS, (Received 10.40 ~. in.) Quartermaster- General: General Ingalls will be in Washington to-morrow. He can answpr your questions in regard to Colonel Webster. Colonel Dodge will probably return to the Department of Virginia, so that it will not be necessary to put the quartermaster Twenty-fourth Corps in as chief in the department. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, Colonel SnAm PE, February 3, 18653.40 p. m. City Point: Five deserters from the Nineteenth Virginia Battalion say they caine with the Twentieth Virginia Battalion from the defenses of Richmond on Monday last, relieving the Armory and Arsenal Battalions, who are sent back on account of desertions. Heard nothing of any other changes on the line in our front. FRED. L. MANNING, Lieutenant- Colonel. FEBRUARY 3, 1865. Col. G. H. SHARPE, - City Point: Deserters from Scales, came in 45 p. in., report Mahone back. His pickets were thrown out again on their old line yesterday morning. No particulars. Everything quiet. J. C. BjABCOCK] Page 362 362 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. SPECIAL ORDERS. WAR DEPT., AD JT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 55. Washington, February 3, 1865. * * * * * * * 28. By direction of the President, Maj. C. A. Whittier, aide-decamp, is assigned to duty with the Second Army Corps as assistant adjutant- general, with the rank and pay of lieutenant-colonel, under act of July 17, 1862, to take effect January 31, 1865. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 25. City Point, Va., February 3, 1865. The following organizations are hereby assigned to the Army of the Potomac, Maj. Gen. George G. Meade commanding: Eleventh Regi- ment U. S. Infantry, First Battalion Maine Sharpshooters, Halls Jude- pendent Battalion Michigan Sharpshooters. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 3, 1865. Col. G. D. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant-General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. One gun of Battery B, First New Jersey Artillery, has been taken from reserve and placed en barbette in the new battery near Fort Welch. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 3, 186511 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: General Bartlett was granted twenty days leave from these head- quarters January 3, 1865. It is not known when he availed himself thereof or whether he has been granted an extension from superior authority. Please report the authority by which lie is now absent and the date upon which he should rejoin his command. By command of Major-General Meade: GEO. D. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsement.] Respectfully referred to Brevet Major-General Griffin, who will please state at what date General Bartlett left his command to go on leave of absence, the time his leave expires, and whether he has any informa- tion of an extension having been granted to General Bartlett Page 363 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 363 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 3, 1865. Col. GEORGE D. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: General Griffin states that General Bartlett left his command Jan- uary 6, 1865. He should have been back the 27th of January. He is still absent. There is a rumor that he has received an extension, but General Griffin cannot trace it to any reliable source. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 3, 1865. (Received 9.45 a. in.) Col. GEORGE D. RUGGLES, Assistant A djut ant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEG. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 3, 1865. General WEBB, Chief of Stafl~: Nothing unusual has transpired along our lines during the past twenty-four hours. JNO. G. PARKE, ]Jfajcr- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 3, 1865. Maj.Gen.E.O.C. ORD, Commanding Army of the James: Please send a spring wagon and ambulance to Aikens Landing, to be there at 8 a. m. to-morrow, to take Mr. Stephens and party through the lines; also notify the rebel authorities that they will be there. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, February 3, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. W. TURNER, - Chief of Staff: GENERAL: In reply to your communication of yesterday, there was nothing ascertained on the last expedition of the cavalry to justify the impression that they could have gone into Richmond, nor could any such information be expected, as they did not go in the direction of Richmond and were much farther away from Richmond at their near- est point than we are now here in our camps, and at no time were they as near the intrenched position of Garys brigade, on the Nine-Mile road, as we are now. There is no information to show that Gary~s position has been changed. The prisoners captured by Colonel Evans all belonged to Garys command, with one or two exceptions, and con Page 364 364 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. L~TiI. firmed previous knowledge of his position. He had pickets thrown out on all the roads toward the Chickahominy. The roads were more or less obstructed, eveu where Colonel Evans was, and refugees have all along reported that the timber has all been cut down to make the country more difficult. The distance to the Nine-Mile road, due north, is about six miles. The euemys position could not be reached on that road within a march of ten or twelve miles. It would be an accident if a command reached any great distance without the movement becom- ing known to the enemy, and they certainly could not get in on the Nine-Mile road without all the opposition that Garys command could make. I understand the Nine-Mile road to be the one north of the York River Railroad leading from Richmond to New Bridge. There is still another road north of it, called Christians road, where this division tried to get through the inner line of intrenchments, and failed, on account of ignorance of the locality, in the night 29th of September last. At present the enemys position in that vicinity is on the line of intrenchments constructed to oppose McClellan in 1862, and is about three miles farther from Richmond. It is thinly defended, and, if it could be approached without sufficient warning to the enemy and with- out delay, could be carriedthat is, my command against Garys. The enemy, however, have superior advantages for concentrating, hav- ing the inner line and telegraphic communication. These two roads are the most available for turning the enemys left flank. There is no available road beyond without crossing the Chickahominy, which is at this season of the year quite an obstacle. Heretofore I have depended for information of the country beyond the Charles City road on the statements of refugees and deserters. To obtain more definite informa- tion it would be necessary to send patrols sufficiently strong to drive in picket-stations or spies; to send the latter, money is necessary. If the general will pay such expenses I think I can obtain men who will perform the duty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT, & c., February 3, 1865. This is in answer to a confidential note to General K[autz], quoting what you think might have been done, and to stir him up. Respectfully forwarded for the information of Lient. Gen. U. S. Grant. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISION, Winchester, Va., February 3, 1865. Maj. Gen. C. C. AucfuR, Washington, D. C.: I think the bridge over the Rapidan has again been rebuilt. An occasional train of cars comes as far as Culpeper. When you have a favorable opportunity it would be well to burn it or cut it down. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- Genera Page 365 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 365 LOYETTSYILLE, February 3, 1865. Brevet Brigadier-General FORSYTH: I sent one scouting party around by ililisborough and Woodson, returning by road between Short Hills and Loudoun Mountain. I sent another by Purcellyille to Cireleville, returning by Hauiilton and Waterford. They could learn nothing of Whites concentration at Upperville, but a large number of his men are in that country. Cap- tured Whites surgeon; chased Mobberly, who got off; and captured the notorious Payne and six others. What shall I do with the doctor and the other men ~ Payne should be tried by a military commission and shot. Since I have been here he has been robbing all around, and shot one man and nearly beat another to death for his money. I ordered that he should not be brought in alive, but he was not recognized in time. If he is tried I will furnish the evidence. I have him tied hand and foot. Please answer as to disposition of prisoners, and can I send them by rail~ Very respectfully, THOS. C. DEVIN, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, February 4, 186512.20 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Poini~, T~a.: The President desires me to repeat that nothing transpired or trans- piring with the three gentlemen from Richmond is to cause any change, hindrance, or delay of your military plans or operations. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CONFIDENTIAL.] CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The appearance of Mr. Stephens and party within our lines has had no influence on military movements whatever. The swamps about Rich- mnond and Petersburg are entirely impassable for artillery if I wanted to move by either flank. But I do not want to do anything to force the enemy from Richmond until Schofield carries out his programme. He is to take Wilmington and then push oat to Goldsborough, or as near it as he can go, and build up the road after him. He will then be in a posi- tion to assist Sherman if Lee should leave Richmond with any consider- abie force, and the two together will be strong enough for all the enemy have to put against them. Terry is being re-enforced from here with the fragments of divisions ~rhich were left behind when he started on his expedition. The number left in this way proves to be 5,500 men. Schofield takes about 33,000 effective men, and Terry has already about 7,500. Altogether this makes a formidable force. I shall necessarily have to take the odium of apparent inactivity, but if it results, as I expect it will, in the discomfiture of Lees army, I shall be entirely satisfied. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 366 366 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Two or three times each week scouts are sent from here into Rich- mond. The only funds the provost-marshal has for defraying their expenses is U. S. currency. These funds naturally would attract suspicion, aud have therefore to be couverted for their use. If, there- fore, you have any rebel currency, I would respectfully request that from $20,000 to $50,000 be sent to Col. George H. Sharpe, assistant provost-marsha] -general, at City Point. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 186510 p. rn. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have ordered the cavalry to move down the Weldon road to-mor- row for the purpose of breaking up the enemy~s wagon train as far as they can, which is being used to draw supplies from Belfield to Peters- burg. A corps of infantry goes as far as Stony Creek in support. I telegraph this so that you may know the object of the movement when you hear of it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 18653 p. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington: I respectfully request that General Ord may be named as perma- nent commander of the Department of Virginia. If Hancock is to be returned to the field I would name him for the Department of the South, otherwise I would have my recommendation of General Terry made to the Secretary of War in a dispatch of yesterday. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 18655 p. m. (Received 7.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: If General Washburn is not placed in command of West Tennessee I want him to come on to take command at Norfolk. He is one of the best administrative officers we have, and will effectually stop supplies being sent through our lines to the enemy wherever he is. We want such a man at each of the above places. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 367 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 367 CONFIDENTIAL.] CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 1865. Maj. Gen. G. G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: I would like to take advantage of the present good weather to destroy or capture as much as possible of the enemys wagon train, which it is understood is being used in connection with the Weldon railroad to partially supply the troops about Petersburg. You may get the cavalry ready to do this as soon as possible. I think the cavalry should start at 3 a. m. either to-morrow or the day following, carrying one and a half days forage and three days rations with them. They should take no wagons and but few ambulances. Let the Second Corps move at the same time, but independent of the cavalry, as far south as Stony Creek Station, to remain there until the cavalry has done the enemy all the harm it can and returns to that point. The infantry may take four days rations in haversacks and one and a half days~ forage for the cavalry in wagons. The artillery taken along may be reduced to one battery to each division or one section from each battery, at your option. The Fifth Corps should also be held in readiness to go to the support of the Second Corps if the enemy should move out to attack. Probably it will be well to move the Fifth Corps at the same time with the Second Corps, sending it by a road west of the one taken by the latter, and to go but about half way to Stony Creek, unless required to do so to meet movements of the enemy. They will go out prepared to remain four days. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 18651.45jp. m. (Sent 2.10 p. m. Received 3 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Dispatch per Captain Dunn received. The Second Corps has one division in the line. The relieving this division would take time and attract the attention of the enemy. I propose to send the Fifth Corps to Stony Creek and two divisions of the Second to Reams Station, where they will be in position to support Warren or return to our left hank if Threatened. Please advise me if this meets your approbation. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 4, 18653.30 p. m. Major-General MEADE: Your arrangement for moving troops is satisfactory. I mentioned the Second Corps for the longest march merely because the last expe- dition was made by the Fifth Corps. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC February 4,18653.454. m. (Sent 4.30 p. m. Received 5.45 p.m.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I am awaiting a reply to my telegram of 1.45 before issuing any orders. 1 learn the enemy wagon on the Boydton plank road, crossin Page 368 368 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIH. the Nottoway at Birchetts Bridge. I propose to send Warren to the crossing of Stony Creek by the Vaughan road, and Humphreys to the crossing of Hatchers Run by the same road. This will be extending our position in supporting distances nearly to Dinwiddie Court-House. The cavalry will strike the road at Dinwiddie and move up and down, looking for the trains. We have as good a chance of striking these trains near Dinwiddie as near Belfield, and the infantry will not have so far to march, and should the enemy be disposed to come out and fight, we shall be in good position to invite them. Please let me have your views, and the movement will at once be ordered for to-morrow. I venture to make one suggestion: Are the objects to be attained com- mensurate with the disappointment which the public are sure to enter- tain if you make any movement and return without some striking result ~ GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, February 4, 18G56.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORG-E G. MEABE: I presume you are in receipt of my answer to your dispatch of 1.30 p. m. before this. Your arrangements are satisfactory. The objects to be attained are of importance. I will telegraph to Secretary Stanton in advance, showing the object of the movement, the publication of which, with the reports of operations, will satisfy the public. When do your troops start out~ U. S. GRANT. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4. 18G57.45 p. m. (Sent 8.15 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Dispatch of 7 p. m. received. The orders are all issued; the cavalry will move at 3 a. m. and the infantry at 7 a. m. Contrabands have come in this p. in., reporting the departure last Thursday week of But- lers division of cavalry for North Carolina. This would leave only one division, W. H. F. Lees, to oppose Gregg. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, February 4, 18658.30 p.m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE: If Gregg can possibly go to Belfield he probably will be enabled to destroy a large amount of stores accumulated there. The departure of one division of the enemys cavalry will favor this. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 369 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 369 [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5 [4j, 18659.30 p. m. General GREGG: The- above is sent to you for your inforiuation and guidance. On reaching iDinwiddie Court-House if you obtain any information con- firming the report of the contrabands, and you have reason to believe the views of the lieutenant-general can be executed you will proceed to Belfield for this 1)urpose. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, [February] 4, 18659.30 p. m. (Received 10.15 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Orders have been sent to Gregg to proceed to Belfield, provided he finds on reaching Diuwiddie Court-House any confirmation of the con- trabauds report, or obtains any reliable intelligence leading him to believe he can effect anything there. The depot is, however, nndoubt- edly at Hick~ford, across the Meherrin, and is guarded by artillery, as it was when Warren was there. We also believe that W. H. F. Lees divis- ion of cavalry is in that vicinity. Gregg goes without artillery. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. CITY PoINT, February 4, 1865. Major-General MEADE: Will you be at your headquarters to-morrow forenoon l If so, I will go out and take Mrs. Grant with me. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 1865. (Sent 11.20 p. in.) Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: I propose going out with the troops on the Vaughan road to-morrow at 8 a. in. In case I should not I will advise you, and will then be most happy to see Mrs. Grant and yourselt GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, February 4, 1865. Major-General MEADE: Do not return to your headquarters on account of my proposed visit. Any other day will suit me as well for going out as to-morrow. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. 24 R RVOL XLVI, PT I Page 370 870 N. AND ML VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (Czar. LYDL FEnUARY 4,1865. Colonel SHARIs, (Jitg Point: InformaUon from contrabands that left Belfield last Thursday that Butlets division of cavalry went to North Carolina a week ago last Thursday also infantry about the same tima They say they saw the cavalry when It left. Have informed General Meade, who has directed me to report it to you, and request you to inform General Grant. 3. C. B[ABCOCKJ. SnolAL OnDns, ~ WAR Dun., ADJT. GnnArJs OnIon, No. 57. 5 Waekington, February 4,1865. 5. Capt. Oliver Matthews, assistant adjutant-general of volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty in the Middle Department, and will report in person without delay to Major-General Hancock, U. S. Volunteers, commanding First Army Corps, for duty. S S S S 4. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Auietaest A4jntat-Ge~waL CIROULAR.J HEADQUARTERS ARMY 01 Tfl PoToMAC, February 4,1865. The following movements have been ordered for to-morrow, Feb. .ruary 5: I. Brevet Major-General Greqg, commanding Second Cavalry Divis- ion, has been ordered to start with his division from his present camp at .3 a. m. to-morrow,to proceed via Beams Station to the Boydton plank road, for the purpose of intercepting and capturing any of the enemys wagon trains carrying supplies B eM, and should an opportunity occur to inflict any injury on the enemy, to avail himself of it. 2. To support the cavalry, Major-General Warren has been ordered to move his corps at 7 a. a to a point designated as 3. Hargraves house, on the road leading from Bowanty Post-Office to Dinwiddie Court-House. 3. Major-General Humphreys has been directed to hold with two divisions of his corps the crossing of the Vaughan road over Hatehers Bun and Armstrongs Mills, keeping up communication with General Warren on his front and our lines in his rear. Since the remainder of this army may be called u n to moveto-moz~- row, Major-General Parke, commanding Ninth Corps,. and Brevet Major-General Getty, commanding Sixth Corps, and commanding officer of the division of the Second Corps left in the line of works by Major- General Humphreys, will hold their commands in readiness to move at short notice, anticipating that the movement to be ordered will consist of the withdrawal of all the troops except the minimum number neos~ my to maintain the picket-line and the garrisons of the works. The chiefs of staff departments will designate officers to takeobarge of such trains and property as may be directed to bewithdrawnto theintrench. monts covering City Point in the event of a movement of the whol Page 371 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. CHAP. LYHI.J 371 army. The officers of the generat staff will be prepared to accompany the major-general commanding to-morrow mQrning at 8 oclock. The senior officer in command of the Provisional Brigade at these head- quarters will hold his command in readiness for orders to move. By command of Major-General Meade: GEG. D. IRUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 186510.28 a. m. Col. GEORGE D. JIUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General: No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. One deserter from the enemy, Harris brigade. Mahones division, came into our lines during the night. A. A. JIUMPIIHEYS, ]Jfajor- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 1865. Maj. Gen. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: The general commandimg directs that you make arrangements to move with the two divisions of your corps not on the line, with four days rations and fifty rounds of ammunitiou on the person and forty rounds of ammnnition in reserve train. No other wagons will be taken arid but one-half the usual allowance of anibulances. Special orders will be sent you. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to Warren, to move aLl; to Gregg, to report here iii person.) CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, iS652.40 p. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Sta~: Can I take three days beef on the hoof with inc or two days, time other two days mneat being salt? Three days beef on hoof is time usual allowance, amid is best. I shall take light headquarters wagons, as that is always understood unless expressly excepted. A. A. HUMPH1iEYS, Major- General. You have excluded intrenciming tools. Are they to go? A.A.I{ Page 372 372 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 1865. Maj. Gem A. A. JIUMPHREYS, Commandin!~ Second Army Corps: The general cominanc1in~ directs that you move to-morrow morning at 7 oclock with the two divisions of your corps not on the line to the crossing of the Vaughan road over Hatchers Hun and to Armstrongs Mills. You will hold these two points and the communications with General Warren in your front aud our lines in your rear. Major-Geim- eral Gregg, commanding Second Cavalry Division, has been ordered to move at 3 a. in. to-morrow amid, passing through iReams Station, to strike the Boydton plank road at Dinwiddie Court-House. Tie is to endeavor to intercept and capture any wagon trains carrying supplies from Belfield, and to take advantage of any opportunity of inflicting injury on the enemy. General Warren, with a regiment of cavalry from (3 eneral Gregg, has been ordered to move his corps in support of General Gregg at 7 a. in., passing through Heams Station and taking the road crossing Hatchers Run at W. Perkins, and taking position on the Dinwiddie Court-House road at or near J. Hargraves. You will take with you four days rations (three on hoof) amid fifty rounds of ammuni- lion on the person and forty rounds in reserve. One-half of the usual allowance of ambulances, with one hospital and one medicine wagon to -each brigade, together with one-half the intrenching tools, besides the pioneer tools, will be taken with yon. Such of your pickets on the rear line as are necessary for the protection of your camps from guer- rillas may be left; the remainder of the pickets belonging to the two divisions you take with you may be withdrawn. You will take with you two batteries of artillery. General Miles, remaining under your command, will still report directly to these headquarters anything of importance that may occur, independent of his report to you. You are taking position to support General Warren, amid should anything occur to render it necessary fom~ him to call upon you for re-enforcements you will furnish them. General Warren is notified of this. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. CONFIDENTmAL. j HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 18653 .15 p. m. Major-Gemieral WEBB, Chief of Staff: I have given all the orders, including those to the artillery. There are two or three points which need notice: First. I shall keep up the picket-line, and direct the First Division to relieve the Second and Third Division line, unless otherwise directed. Let me know. Second. It is usual in a brief movement even to take one medicine amid oiie hospital wagon to each brigade. No mention is made of them in your note, and I have given no order about them. They ought to go. Third. No mention is muade of artillery. I have available one bat- tery six guns (3-inch). one battery six guns (12-pounders), one battery four guns (12-pounders). I have ordered them all got ready. Two would perhaps be enough, depending upon the nature of the operations, respecting which I know notl~ing. A. A. JIUMPHIREYS, Major- General, Commanding Page 373 CHAP. LVIII.) COflRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 373 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Jlebruary 4, 18658.40 p. rn. Maj. Gen. A. A. I3IUMPHREYS: The cavalry at these headquarters (349) will report to you at 6 a. m~ tc-morrow, and the telegraph will be run to Hatchers Run. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brecet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 186510.05 p. m. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: General Warren has obtained orders to move down the Halifax road to Rowailty Post-Office, crossing the run at W. Perkins, and thence to the point first ordered. ALEX. S. WEBB, Breret Major- General and Chief of Staff. CONFIDENTIAL HEADQIJARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, - CIRCULAR. February 4, 186511.55 p.m. The following communication is to be regarded as confidential, except so far as it may be necessary to issue instructions respecting any part of it: 1. Major-General Gregg will move at 3 a. in. to-morrow, passing by Reams Station, to Dinwiddie Court-House. 2. Major-General Warren will move with his corps at 7 a. m. to-mor- row (the 5th) by the Halifax road, cross Hatchers Run at W. Perkins, and move to the vicinity of J. Hargraves. 3. Brigadier-General Smyth, Second Corps, will move his division I)unctually at 7 a. m. to-morrow by the Vaughan road past the Cum- mings honse, and by the cross-road to the vicinity of Armstrongs Mill, where he will take position to hold the crossing of Hatchers Run, and will also cover the cross-road by which he moves from the Vaughan road and look up the Duncan road toward the Watkins house. His division will be preceded by a cavalry force of 350 men, who will drive the enemys vedettes beyond Hatchers Run, both on the Vaughan road and at Armstrongs Mill, and send forward a detachment to I)abneys Mill as soon as any force that may be at the crossing of the Vaughan road is driven off and the crossing secured by the inflintry. 4. Maj. Gen. G. Mott, Second Corps, will follow General Smyth with his division, cross a brigade over Hatchers Run, and hold the roads beyond leading to Armstrongs Mill and Dabneys Mill. He will post a brigade at the crossing of Hatchers Run and one where the cross- road to Armstrongs Mill leaves the Vaughan road. 5. In moving the Second Division will look out for its right flank and front, and, in conjunction with the Third Division, will establish a line connecting with the corps picket-line neai the Tucker house or that vicinity. 6. Major-General Miles will hold his command, including the garri- son of the rear works, ready to move, excepting the force heretofore specified for garrisons, pickets, as the picket-line south of the roa Page 374 374 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. running west from Fort Cummings will require to be changed quickly by orders fiom the conunanding general. General Miles will instruct the officer in charge of that part of the line accordingly. By order of Major-General llumphreys: SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. FEBRUARY 4, 186512 M. Brevet Major-General HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac: The enemy opened lire on McGilvery with all the guns bearing on it, doing but little damage. Our guns replied from McGilvery and Bat- tery 5. JNO. C. TIDRALL. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. iWajor-General MILES, Corn iandinq Eirst Division: GENERAL: The following are the instructions the major-general com- manding desires inc to give you: You will detail an officer to relieve at once Colonel Olmsted, First Brigade, Second Division, as corps officer of the day. You will at once relieve the picket of the Second Division, 355 men, with the proper complement of officers and non-commissioned offi- cers. At 8 a. m. to-morrow you will send garrisons to Forts Enmery and Siebertthe former 150 men, the latter 200 men. The Third Divis- ion pickets will not be relieved by you, but will be withdrawn by Gen- eral Mott as he moves, excepting a sufficient force to protect the camps in their rear against guerrillas. The Second and Third Divisions are to move at 7 a. m. to-morrow, each with a battery of artillery, to Hatchers Runat Armstrongs Mill and at the crossing of the Vaughan roadand will keep up communication with you, the picket- lines connecting. One battery of artillery in reserve will reiuaiii here. You will continue under my command, but will report direct to army headquai-ters, as well as to myself, anything of importance that may occur. I am, geiieral, very respectffilly, your obedient sem-vant, SEPT. CAIRNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- aeneral. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. Maj. GEORGE I). PIPER, F/fty-third Penn. Vols., Dir. Officer of the Day, First Div.: MAJOR: The Second Division picket-line will be relieved to-night by troops from this division. As soon - s it is done you will assume coin- mand of the whole. Lieutenant Wood. assistant comini ssary of musters. of the division staff, will conduct the dutail to the line on the road run Page 375 CHAP. LYITI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 375 ning west from Fort Cummings, and will relieve the line from right to left. It would be well for you to meet him at that point and visit the line with him. He will be there as soon as the detail can be got out. This by direction of General Miles: II. A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CONFIDENTIAL.1 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Cones, February 4, 1865. COIuIANDING OFFICERS SECOND AND THIRD DIVISIONS: Sin: The major-general commanding directs that you make arrange- ments to move with your division, with four days rations an(l lifty rounds of ammunition on the person and forty rounds of ammunition in the reserve train, one-half the ambulances and all the stretcher- bearers. A wagon of intrenching tools will be sent you from these headquarters. The four days ratioizis will be composed of one days~ salt meat on the person and three (lays beef on the hoof driven with the division. No other wagons will be taken except the light head- quarters wagona. The pickets will accompany you and will be relieved by the pickets of the First iDivision. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNOROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, February 4, 1865. Brig. Gen. T. A. SiwYTH, Comm andinq Second Division: SIR: You will march with your division at 7 a. in. to-morrow, by a route to be indicated in further instructions, with the rations, ammunition, ambulances, & c., stated in a communication of this day~s date, and, in addition thereto, one hospital and one medical wagon to each brigade. Your pickets will be relieved at once by General Miles. An officer will relieve Colonel Olinsted as corps officer of the day at once. The bat- tery of artillery will be ordered to report to you. By order of Major-General Humphreys: SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Conps, February 4, 1865. COMMANDING- OFFICER SECOND DIVISION: SIR: If any garrison at Fort Emery or Fort Siebert is furnished from your command they must be prepared to move with the division. The First Division will be instructed to send garrisons to those redoubts, but the commanding officer of your troops now stationed there must not wait to be relieved, but be rea(ly to march with the division. By command of Major-General Humphreys: SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major a d Assistant Adjutant- General Page 376 376 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, February 4, 18G5. Upon leaving camp to-morrow morning a camp guard will be left in charge of same. The following will be the order of march: First Bri- gade; Second Brigade; Third Brigade. By order of Brigadier-General Smyth: JNO. M. NOItVELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. Brevet Major-General MOTT, Commanding Third Division: Sni; The commanding general directs that yon move your division at 7 a. in. to-morrow, by a route of which you will be notified shortly, with the rations, ammunition, ambulances, & c., stated in the com- munication of this date, and, in addition, one hospital and one medi- cal wagon for each brigade. Your pickets will not be relieved by the First Division, but will be drawn off and join your column when mov- ing, you leaving just sufficient to cover the camp in their rear from guerrillas. They will keep their connection with the pickets on the right. You will see that the men now on picket who are to move with the command are properly supplied with shelter-tents, rations, & c., in time to join the column. A battery of artillery will be ordered to report to you. You will detail three non commissioned officers and thirty privates (picked men), to report at 7 a. m. to-morrow to Major Palmer, provost-marshal, at these headquarters. I am, general, very respectfully~ your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. The division will move at 7 a. in., tIme 5th instant. The order of march will be: First Brigade, Brigadier-General De Trobriand; iRoders battery; Second Brigade, Brevet Brigadier-General West; Third Bri- gade, Brevet Brigadier-General McAllister; ambnlances, spring wagons, ammunition train. Colonel Price, division officer of the day, will have the pickets, with the exception of the 150 who are left on the line near time McDougall house on the Vaughan road, so that they may loin their commands as they pass that point. All available men will be in the ranks; none but those that are not able to march will be left to guard the camps. By comumand of Brevet Major-General Mott: WM. IL DRIVER. Assistant A d jul ant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 186511 p. m. COMMANDING OFFICER FIRST BRIGADE: GENERAL: The brevet maj or-general commanding directs that you move your brigade at 7 a. m. to-morrow, by a route to be indicated t you by a staff officer from these headquarters, with the rations, aiumu Page 377 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 377 nition, & c., directed in Previous circular. In addition to the wagons mentioned therein one medical and one hospital wagon for each bri- gade will accompany the troops. Your pickets will not be relieved by the First Division, but will be drawn off and join your column when moving, you leaving sixty men, properly officered, on the picket-line, to cover the camps in the rear from guerrillas. The senior brigade officer of the details from the division will take charge of the line and see that the connection is kept up right and left. He directs that you cause the men now on picket who are to move with the command to be properly supplied with rations, shelter-tents, & c., in time to join the column. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 18G5. Major-General WARREN, Commanding FJth Army Corps GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you make your arrangements to move with four days rations and fifty rounds of ammunition on the person, forty rounds in reserve wagons. You will move with no other wagons and with but one-half the usual allowance of ambulances. Special instructions will be sent you. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. FEBRUARY 4, 186~7 p. m. General WEBB: The best route for me to take is down the Halifax road to Rowanty Post-Office, and then take the road direct to the crossing of Rowanty Creek at W. Perkins. It will be considerably shorter than to go down the plank road and via Reams Station. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 18G5. Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN, Commanding Fifth Army Corps: The general commanding directs that you move your corps to-morrow morning at 7 oclock down the Halifax road to Rowanty Post-Office, then by the road direct to the crossing of Rowanty Creek at NV. Perkins, thence across Hatchers Run to J. Hargraves on the road leading to Dinwiddie Court-House, taking position at or near that point to sup- port General Greggs cavalry. General Gregg, commanding Second Cavalry Division, has been ordered to move at 3 a. m. to-morrow, and, passing through Reams Station, to strike the Boydton plank road at Dinwiddie Court-House. He is to endeavor to intercept and capture any wagon trains carrying supplies from Belfield, and to take advan- tage of any opportunity of inflicting injury on the enemy. Major Page 378 378 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD,, AND PA. [CHAP. LVTH. General llumphreys has been ordered to move with two divisions of his corps to the crossing of the Vaughan road over hatchers Run and Armstrongs Mills, to hold these points and the communications with you and with our lines in his rear, General Gregg has been ordered to detach one regiment of cavalry to report to you, and to leave with you a supply train and reserve ammunition, which will accompany you to J. llargraves. lie is ordered to notify you of all that occurs, and iu the event of an engagement to take his orders from you. You will take with you two batteries, one rifled and one smooth-bore, and the usual amount of ammunition in limbers and caissons. You will be rationed for four days from to-morrow a. m. (three on hoof), with fifty rounds of ammunition ou the person and forty rounds in reserve. One- half the usual allowance of ambulances, with one hospital and one medi- cine wagon to each brigade, together with one-half the intrenching tools, besides the pioneer tools, will be taken with you. Such of your pickets on the rear line as are necessary for the protection of -your camps from guerrillas may be left. General Humphreys has been directed to fur- nish you re-enforcements, should you call for them. A telegraph line will be run to General Humphreys headquarters on Hatchers Run, and general headquarters will either be here or on the road from here to you. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUART R5 FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 4, 18657.50 p. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: I propose to leave my picket-line as it is, to remain on. The detail for the whole line is 1,400 men. Please reply. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. FEBRUAIIY 4, 18658.35 p. m. General WARREN, Commanding Fmfth Corps: Your instructions will leave the picket question to you. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPs, February 4, 18651.30 p. m. The commanding gencr~-l desires that you hold your command in readiness to move, with four days rations, fifty rounds of ammunition on the person, forty rounds in reserve wagons. No other wagons will accompany the troops, and but one-half the ambulances. Further instructions will be issued. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, ~revet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- Qeueral Page 379 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 379 CIRCE EAR, } HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. I. The corps will move to-morrow, 5th instant at 6.30 a. in., and in the following order: First, Ayres division; second, Griffins division, followed by three batteries; third, Crawfords division; fourth, ambu- lances; lift li, reserve ammunition wagons. II. The usual spring wagons allowed to the several headquarters will accompany the troops. III. All the pioneers of the corps will assemble at the Gurley house at 6.30 a. m. Three days beef cattle will accompany the column. Sufficient guards will be left behind to protect the property in the camps. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant.General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February [4], 1865. DIVISION COMMANDERS: The pickets will remain out duriug the absence of the command. They will be rationed for four days. By command of Major-General Warreu: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIViSIoN, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. COMMANDING OFFICER SECOND BRIGADE: The general commanding directs that you get your command in readiness to move. Fifty rounds of ammunition will be carried on the persons of the men. Four days rations from to-morrow morning (Feb- ruary 5) will also be carried. No wagons whatever will accompany the expedition. Please report as soon as ready. XTery respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM FOWLER, A etinq Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to commanding officers First and Third Brigades.) IIEADQITARTERS SIx~n ARMY CORPS, February 4. 1865. Col. GEORGE B. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the l)ast twenty-four hours. GEO. W. GETTY, ~revet Major- General, Gommanding Page 380 380 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. JILADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Coups, February 4, 18Gb. Col. GEORGE D. IRUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: COLONEL: In accordance with circular of this date, I have the honor to report as follows: First Division: First Brigade, commanded by Col. Samuel Harriman, Thirty-seventh Wisconsin Volunteers; Second Brigade, commanded by Col. Byron M. Cutcheon, Twenty-seventh Michigan Volunteers; Third Brigade, commanded by Bvt. Brig. Gen. N. B. McLaughlen, U. S. Volunteers, colonel Fifty-seventh Massachn setts Volunteers. Second Division: First Brigade, commanded by Bvt. Brig. Gen. John I. Curtin, U. S. Volunteers, colonel Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Vol- unteers. Third Division: First Brigade, commanded by Col. C. W. Diven, Two hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers; Second Brigade, commanded by Col. J. A. Mathews, Two hundred and fifth Pennsylvania Volun- leers; Artillery Brigade, commanded by Bvt. Brig. Gen. John C. Tid- ball, U. S. Volunteers, colonel Fourth New York Artillery. Brigadier- Getieral Hartranft, who is now temporarily in command of the Third Division, is the permanent commander of the First Brigade, First Division. I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 1865. Major-General GREGG: The niajor-general commanding directs that you hold your command ready to move by early daylight to-morrow, with three days rations for the men and one and a half days forage. You will report in person at these headquarters for special instructions. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Breret ]Iilajor-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 4, 1865. Brevet Major-General GREGG: The major-general commanding directs that you move with your division to-morrow morning at 3 oclock, and, passing through IReams Station, strike the Boydton plank road at Dinwiddie Court-House. On reaching the Boydton plank road you will move up and down it, to endeavor to intercept and capture any wagon train carrying supplies from Belfield. Should you hear of any trains not on this road, or of any opportunity of inflicting injury on the eiiemy, other than here directed, you will avail yourself of it without further instructions. Major-General Warren is ordered to support you, taking post at or near J. Hargraves, on the Dinwiddie Court-House road, and leaving hi~ camp at 7 a. in., passiimg through Reams Station and taking the roa Page 381 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMUN. 381 crossing Hatchers Run at W. Perkins. You will leave with General Warren a regiment of cavalry and a snpply train, with one and a half days forage and your reserve ammunition. This train will accompany General Warren, taking post at J. Hargraves. You will notify General Warren of all that occurs, and in the event of an engagement you will take your orders from him. The troops detailed for this expedition will be rationed for four days from to-morrow morning. You will take with you such of your pickets as you may deem it advisable to relieve. Two contrabands have come in to-night and have reported Butlers brigade, of Lees cavalry, has been sent to North Carolina. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- ~i1eneral and Chief of Staff. P. S.General Warrens route has been changed to down the Hali- fax road to Rowanty Creek Post-Office, and then direct to the crossing of the Rowanty Creek at W. Perkins. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, February 4, 1865. Major-General GREGG, Corn~anding Second Cavalry Division: - GENER~L: I have the honor to forward yon, by orderly, G. W. Wells, Nineteenth Mississippi, the rebel deserter whom you requested might be sent to your headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, PH. SCHUYLER, Captain, Fourteenth Infantry, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, February 4, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have seen the deserter sent me by Captain Schnyler. Please inform General Meade that Mahones division in going to Bel- field followed the road which he (General M[eadeJ) thinks the wagon trains take in going to Petersburg. On the entire road this man saw but twenty-five wagons, and these in small trains hauling forage. This man says his command went within four miles of Belfield, and from Burgess Mill to that point he saw no troops, cavalry or infantry. There were no troops at Dinwiddie Court-House. Very respectfully, B. McM. GREGG, Brecet ]I/Ipor-General of Volunteers, Commanding Second Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, February 4, 1865. Brevet Major-General GREGG, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to forward you, with the bearer, a col- ored man who has just come in from Jarratts Station, and [who], i Page 382 382 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII the opinion of the major-general commanding, will be able to give you some valuable information in regard to some late movements of the rebel cavalry, besides acting as guide. I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, PH. SCHUYLER, Captain, Fourteenth Infantry, in Charge of Office. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, February 4, 18658.50 p. m. This command will move to-morrow at 3 a. in., in the following order: First, Second Brigade; second, Third Brigade; third, one-half the ambu- lances of the division; fourth, FirstBrigade. The command will move down the Jerusalem plank road to Garys Church, thence to I-teams Station, at which point the commander of the advance brigade Will receive further instructions. The command will carry three days rations and one and one-half days forage and the greatest amount of ammunition possible. Tlie batteries will not accompany the division, but, un(ler charge of the senior artillery officer present, will remain in their present positions, or at such point within the line of intrenchmnemits as that officer may select. One and a half days forage in wagons and the reserve animunition train will move at 7 a. in. with the Fifth Army Corps (General Warrens), and remain with that corps. The commanding officer Third Brigade will detail one regiment of his brigade to report to Major-General Warren, commanding Fifth Army Corps, at 6 a. m. Brigade commanders will, through staff officers, report the readiness of their brigades to move at the hour specified. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WEJIt, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, February 4, 1865. Brig. Gen. J. I. GREGG, Commanding Second Brigade, Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that at dusk this evening you withdraw two-thirds of the entire force you now have on picket; the remaining third will maintain your present line, with such modifications, owing to the reduced force, as you may direct. Have your entire command supplied with the rations and forage before dim-ectedthree days rations, one and a half days~ forageand as munch ammunition as can be conveniently carried by the men in their boxes and omi their persons, and be in readiness to move at 3 a. m. to-morrow. It is desirable that you get out every available man, leaving such men as could not accompany your brigade for camp guards. Further instruction for the movement will be sent you. I abi, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WEIR, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 383 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 383 CITY POINT, Vii., FGbruary 4, 1~65. Major-General ORD: You can go to Fort Monroe, to return to-morrow evening or night. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, ARMY OF TIlE JAMES, In the Field, February 4, 186510.30 a. m. General JOHN A. IRAWLINS, City Point: Signal officer Cobbs Hill reports four extra traiiis passing toward Petersburg, on the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad, after dark last night; tlioijioht them heavily loaded. rfrains returned toward Rich- niond at 9 and 10.15 P. ni. B. 0. C. GM), ililiajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE JAMES, February 4, 18655.5.5 p. m. Commodore RADFORD: It is reported to me that great. carelessness is shown by the parties of sailors on board a torpedo-boat at Aikens wharfsnapping caps among open barrels of powder (a lot of loose powder was burnt this way yesterday by carelessness), and Ill other ways. Will you have the boat nioored in the river away from the wharf. Other parties should have charge of the works. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General, & c. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1365. Captain NORTON: At 9.30 this p. ni. there were nine shots fired on picket-line between Signal Hill and Camp holly. AMSDEN, Lieutenant and Signal Officer. GENERAL ORDERS, JIDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 20. 5 In the Field, Va., February 4, 1865. Capt. W. B. Potter, Twelftli New Jersey Volunteers, aide-de-camp, announced as acting assistant inspector-general during the tempo. ary absence of Bvt. lVIaj. A. H. Embler, Fifty-ninth New York Volun- teers, aide-dc-camp and assistant inspector-general. By command of Maj. Geii. John Gibbon: EDWARD MOALE, Captain, Nineteenth U. S. Infantry, Aide de- Ca nip and Acting Assi8tant Adjutant. General Page 384 384 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., ANI) PA. rOHAP. LVIII. PoRTSMouTH, February 4, 1865. Major-General ORD, Headquarters Army of the James: The force sent to Pagan Creak have returned, and report having made a careful reconnaissance of the creek and vicinity without find- ing any torpedoes, or indication that there was any in preparation. The party that intended operating in that vicinity had returned to Richmond some time since. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. VOGDES, Brigadier- Ucueral. BALTIMORE, Mn., February 4, 18657.30 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I feel it my duty to report that thirty-eight rebels were again per- mitted last night to throw oft and rob a train, breaking the engine and cars, within three and a half miles of Harpers Ferry, in the immediate vicinity of the, recent similar attack. May I ask that such instructions be given to the commandant at Harpers Ferry as will prevent these freqnent raids upon the road at points that can be certainly defended. The locality which has been so repeatedly attacked, and abont which special vigilance is required, is where the road from Charlestown to Shepherdstown intersects our line. JOHN W. GARRETT. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, P. 0., February 4, 18659 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester: Another train was thrown off the track and robbed last night within three and a half miles of Harpers Ferry, in the immediate vicinity of a recent occurrence of like kind. I am apprehensive that General Stev- enson is not snfficiently vigilant. The point of intersection of the roads from Charlestown with Shepherdstown,it seems to me, ought to be better guarded than has been done by Stevenson. Will you please give this matter attention. The interruption of trains there seems to be chronic, and may spread if not checked. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WiNCHESTER, VA., February 4, 1865. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Many of the officers in this army have not been paid since August last, consequently they are out of money, and it is necessary that an issue of stores from the Commissary Department be ordered for their or that an order similar to that issued by Lieutenant-Genera Page 385 CHAP. LYIThi CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 385 Grantdated headquarters Arnijes of the United States, City Point, Va., June 28, 1864, Special Orders, No. 44be issued to cover their case. I would, therefore, respectfully request permission to issue such an order. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division: Will you not give me the Second Massachusetts Cavalry for the Thir- teenth New York Cavalry ~ The Thirteenth numbers over 400 men present. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISIoN, Winchester, Va., February 4, 1865. Brigadier-General MCMILLAN, Stephensons Depot: I want you to send to the house of Mrs. Alexander, where the guer- rillas James Washington and Herbert Alexander were captured, and drive off all stock except one inilch cow, and buru every rail on the Clay Mound farm, as a punishment for harboring guerrillas. Notify the people in that vicinity that I will destroy every farm aiid drive off all stock wherever I find them harboringguerrillas, and put the people outside of my lines iu the direction of Richmond. Report the execu- tion of this order. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WINCHESTER, VA., February 4, 1865. Statement of Sergt. S. A. Dunning, Signal Corps, C. S. Army, attached to General Earlys headquarters: I entered the Federal lines Thursday, February 2. I had with me another mau at Pitmau Point, at the extreme end of the Massanutten Mountain near Strasburg. Have beeu there about two months. We had a verb fine glass (captured from the Federal Army), with which we could look into the streets of Winchester. No force can leave Win- chester or go to Strasburg, Front Royal, Ashbys Gap, or ~ Gap, or in any direction, without being seen, except at night or rainy weather. We were on post from 8 a. m. until 3 p. m. Usually we boarded with Mr. Braush Mackintosh, near the signal station. My companion will think that I am captured, as I told him I was going on a scout. There is a chain of signal stations, all connecting with New Market, from which place a telegraph goes to General Earlys head- quarters. There is a station ou the mountain at Ashby~s Gap; one at Hominy Hollow, on Bocks Hill, near Front Royal; one at Burnt Springs, on Fort Mountain, opposite Honeyville. at Ed. Browmaus, between 25 R RYOL xLYI, PT I Page 386 386 N. AND SE. YA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Bunit Springs and New Market (lap, and the station at Pitman Point. I am perfectly familiar with the, rebel signal code. The road through Fort Valley is very bad. It would be very difficult for a cavalry force to go through there; the road crosses a creek several times, and wheu the crossings are frozen up it is almost impossible to cross. After a thaw there would not be much trouble. A large uumber of the citizens in Fort Valley are Dinikards and Union men. A number of stragglers and men on furlough are constantly in the Fort Valley visiting their friends. The best crossing on the Shenandoah below Strasburg is at Bnckton. Mosby has not yet recovered from his wound. Four of his companies have been sent to Northern Neck, Washington County; the rest of his men are scattered through Londoun and Fauquier Counties. - They are not doing much scoating because of the difficulty in crossing the river. Gilmor is in command of McNeills company, near Moorefleld. There is a picket-post of three companies at Edenbnrg. The furnace in Fort Valley, about eight miles from Edenburg, is working for the government; no guard there. No forces between Edenburg and Staunton. The stages run daily between Mount Jackson and Staunton. General Early is at Fishersville. His chief signal officer is Capt. H. E. Wilbourn; chief of artillery, General Long; chief of cavalry, General Fitzhugh Lee. Brigadier-General Wharton commands Breckinridges old division, aboiat 3,000 strong, about three miles from Fishersville. General Long has a park of probably forty-five guns; there are, besides, two horse batteries (Fitzhughs and Chews). Fitzhugh Lee has his headquarters at Waynesborough, or near there. iRosser and Lomax are the cavalry division commanders. Itossers old brigade is at Swoopes Station, near Buffalo Gap. Two regiments of Paynes brigade are at Lexington; the rest of the brigade is at Fishersville. Wickhams brigade is east of the Blue Ridge, between the mountain and Charlottesville. Imbodemm is near Buffalo Gap. MeCausland and Jackson are in Highland County. I estimate the effective cavalry force of General Earlys cont- mand at 5,000; not more. I am positive forage is very scarce, and it is now very difficult to get a new horse when a man is dismounted. There is no force at Staunton. Early is very unpopular. Gordon is the favorite of the troops. He was with me on the mountain overlook- ing General Sheridans army at Cedar Creek the day previous to the attack on the 19th last October; he planned time attack. The citizens in the Valley are very destitute, and depend principally on their friemids south of Staunton. No large force of cavalry can subsist in the Valley below Mount Jackson twenty-four hours. Numubers of the rebel cav- alry are in the habit of visiting Newtown. They frequently spend twenty-four hours there. A few days since a captain in the First Virginia Cavalry visited his friends there. They vill not disturb the Yankee soldiers, for fear the citizens will suffer. There is nothing to prevent a spy from going to Staunton via Fort Valley, along the foot of Massanutten Mountain by Conrads Store. There are no pickets. I have never known a mounted man to be stopped. Cavalry soldiers seldom desert; they fear their horses will be taken away from them. WINCHESTER, VA., February 4, 1865. Statement of Private G. S. Fugitt, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, liossers old brigade: Left Harrisonburg on Friday, Jannary 27, to visit Woodstock with a pass from Capt. Robert W. Baylor, provost-marshal Valley Depart- ment. Been in the service since June, 1862. Saw no troops between Staunton and Edcnburg. Two or three companies were on picket a Page 387 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 387 Edenburg belonging to Twelfth Virginia Cavalry; one company com- manded by Captain Grandstaff. My family live on the Pughtown road, about live miles from Winchester. I have been a prisoner one year; was exchanged last month. There were about twenty cavalry on picket at the upper bridge near Edenburg; no picket below. They told me that a Yankee scouting party was expected Sunday afternoon, January 29. Deserted because I am too old (fifty-two years) to endure the hardships, and because my family were suffering. WINCHESTER, VA., February 3, 1865. Statement of Private John Johnson, Company A, Seventh Teniies- see Infantry, McCombs brigade, Heths division, A. P. Hills corps: Deserted from my regiment near Petersburg January 26. I got a sick furlough for forty days; came by rail to Staunton; from there came by stage to Mount Jackson; then took the North Mountain down. We were assisted by several Union men below Mount Jackson. There were about sixty men in my regiment; 300 men in the brigade. I heard the quartermaster say that there were about 1,700 men in the division; cannot say how many in the corps. My regiment is on the left of Petersburg. Large numbers of Lees army are deserting daily; some- times as many as 200 a day. At least half would desert if they had an opportunity. The report that Lee is to leave the army causes great discontent. The men say that they never will fight under any other commander. A. P. hill is iiot very popular as a corps com- mander. The rations very poor and irregular. Tilman Etheridge, private, Company H, Seventh Tennessee, deserted with John Johnson, 26th of January. Statement substantially same as John sons. MARTINSBURG, February 4, 1865. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Have you heard that an engine was captured about daylight this a. m. east of Duflields ~? I have sent small party of cavalry to Bunker Hill to intercept. Have no particulars. W. II. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY Diyisio~, Winchester, February 4, 1865. Col. M. A. RENO, Chariestown, W. Va.: The country in your vicinity and out for a distance of ten miles is full of Confederate soldiers. With a regiment as strong as yours you should be able to capture many of them, and I will look to you to do so. At every house where you make a capture drive off all stock except one inilch cow, and notify the people that I will i)ut them out of my lines and let their rebel friends take care of them. P. H. SHERIDAN, ]JiLcUor- General Page 388 388 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CUMBEIILAND, MD., February 4, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester, Pa.: The following has been received from Colonel Oley, at Charleston: General Sheridans dispatch received. My information to-day is that a brigade each of cavalry and infantry are now in Greenbrier an Monroe; four batteries reported gone to Narrows; think this too large, but some there. The forces are con- siderably scattered, gathering forage and supplies; think no move this way is con- templated at present; supplies the main object. Consider the above reliable; feel confident none this side Meadow Bluff. JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel. The Narrows spoken of are a few miles from Pearisburg, on New River. GEORGE CROOK, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., February 5, 156510.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, lYashinfgon: Greggs cavalry moved out this morning aiid went as far as Din- widdie Court-House. He Inet but little opposition. As far as he could learn, owing to the destruction of the Weldon bridge and bridge on Boydton road, but few stores were remaining at I3elfield and but few wagons were on the road. He captured 18 wagons and 50 prisoners. Warren moved at 7 a. in., to go as far as Stony Creek. He met with but little opposition and reports no casualties. He captured about thirty prisoners. Hnmphr.eys moved out on the Yaughau road to cross- ing of 1-Tatchers Run. He ~ as attacked late in the afternoon, but re- pulsed every attack. What the casualties have been I do not know. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. ATLANTIC HOTEL, Norfolk, Va., February 5, 1865. Lient. Gen. lIT. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States: GENERAL: I most humbly and earnestly beg that you will be pleased to allow me to return to duty on board the Onondaga. I acknowledge my transgressions, and implore your mercy in my case. I deeply regret that I ever gave you any cause of complaint, and promise in the future that your orders shall be punctually and implicitly obeyed. A request from you to the Navy Department would restore me to duty immedi- ately. I beg for your forgiveness, general, and earnestly hope you will grant my request. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. A. PARKER, Commander Page 389 CHAP. LVIII.1 COIIRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 389 CITY POINT, VA., February 5, 18658 p. m. Hon. G. WELLES, $ecretary of the Navy, Washington: I am in receipt of an earnest appeal from Captain Parker, U. S. Navy, to be restored to the command of the Onondaga. I have no objection to his return to that command so long as a senior commands the division. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Grossing of Hatchers Run by Vaughan Road, February 5, ISGS2.SOp. rn. (Sent 3 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: llumphreys was in position at this point and Armstrongs Mill by 10 a. in., crossing at both places with but little opposition, taking nine prisoners, all of Pegrams division. He is now getting in position and pushing out the Vaughan road to communicate with Warren. Warren reports at 1 p. in. that he has crossed most of his infantry, but he has to build a bridge of sixty feet in length to cross artillery and trains; will be over by 3 p. in. Nothing has been heard from Gregg. From the reports of prisoners I am led to believe the enemy may attempt to interpose between Warren and ilumplireys. To keep open this commu- nication of four miles I have ordered up Parkes reserve division, and have directed the available troops in the City Point lines to replace them with Parke. Warren reports taking thirty prisoners when cross- ing the run. I can hear nothing of the enerny~s cavalry, and the pris- oners here know nothing ofany troops, cavalry or infantry, going South. (lEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Vaughan Road and Hatchers Run, [February 5, 1865]6.45 p. mu. (Sent 7.10 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: The enemy at 5.15 attacked General llumphreys right, and have been engaging him till this moment. General Huinphreys has repulsed all their attacks. I have ordered up to his support not only a division from the Ninth Corps but one from the Sixth Corps. General Warren is in position at Hargraves, about three miles and a half from here; has met no enemy. General Gregg reports that having occupied Dinwiddie Court-House and hearing nothing of any trains or the enemy, had returned to tIme crossing of Hatchers Run by the Malone road. I have sent orders to General Gregg to return to General Warren and report to that officer unless you send other orders for him. I think the enemy are trying to turn Humphreys right and cut our communications with our line of works. Besides Pegrams and Gordons divisions, deserters report the movement to their right of ileth and Mahone. I shall leave Humphreys and Warren in their present positions, with directions to suj)port each other. I do not think the cavalry will do anything in the way of destroying trains. I shall await your instructions. It is esti- mated Hnmphreys losses in wounded may amount to 300. Please acknowledge at once. (lEO. G. MEADE, Major- General Page 390 Th AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. 390 (CHAP. LVIII. CITY POINT, VA., February 5, 18G57.15 p. m. Major-General MEAPE, Vaughan Road: Your dispatch of 6.45 p. m. just received. Bring Warren and the cavalry back, and if you can follow the enemy up do it. If we can follow the enemy np, although it was not contemplated before, it may lead to getting the South Side road, or a position from which it can be reached. Change original instructions to give all advantages you can take of the enemys acts. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTOMAc, Grossing qf ~ Run by Vaughan Road, February 5, 18658 p. m. (Sent 8.22 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have withdrawn Warren and the cavalry to this point, directing two divisions to remain on the other side of the run, one to cross to this side as a reserve for contingencies. Humphreys is instructed to await developments, and to attack, if advantageous, aud drive the enemy into their works. The enemy have a strong line of works passing through the Clements house; this house is the place where the shot fell near us on the last movementthat is to say, since then the enemy have advanced their line. Unless we can carry this line we can hardly reach the Boydton plank road or South Side Railroad without a flank movement considerably to the left. I presume it was to stop this they attacked Ilumplireys right. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18659.80 p. rn. (Sent 10 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Orders have been sent to Gregg to proceed to Belfield, provided he finds, on reaching Dinwiddie Court-House, any conhrmation of the contrabands report, or obtains any reliable intelligence leading him to believe he can effect anything there. The depot is, however, undoabt- edly at Hicksford, across the Meherrin, and is guarded by artillery, as it was when Warren was there. We also believe that W. H. F. Lees division of cavalry is in that vicinity. Gregg goes without artillery. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, February 5, 1865-b p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I send a dispatch* from General Gregg, received on my arrival just now. A staff officer who carried my last dispatch to General Warren reports that, on leaving, three squadi~ons of Greggs cavalry came in to See Gregg to Webb, 4.20 p. in., p. 409 Page 391 CHAP. LvIItl CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ~91 Warren, saying the enemys cavalry had attacked Gregg~s rear guard and cut them off. I am a little apprehensive of the enemy~s cavalry interposing between Gregg and Warren, and preventing the latter nsing the road he advanced on to withdraw his artillery and trains. I have, however, sent orders to Gregg to open this road, if possible, and escort back Warrens trains. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 5, 1865. (Received 10.25 p. in.) Major-General MEAnE: Please report to me the situation of our troops now and of the enerny~s forces, so far as you know it; also state what you propose for the morn- ings movement. I would not advise any withdrawal in the morning, nnless forced to it. We should either carry ont the first design or else meet the enemy outside his intrenchments. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, February 5, 186510.30 y. m. (Sent 11.15 p. in.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: GENERAL: I moved out this morning on the Vaughan road the Sec- ond Corps to the crossing of Hatchers Run; on the road from Reams Station to IDinwiddie Court-House, the Fifth Corps; and on a road crossing Hatchers Run still lower down, the cavalry division under General Gregg. General Gregg was ordered to move to J)inwiddie Court-House, and to move up and down the Boydton road to intercept and capture the enemys trains, and was further ordered to determine whether or not he could in any way inflict damage upon the enemy. General Warren was to support General Gregg; General Humphreys, to support General Warren. All other available troops of this army were to be held ready to move at short notice. The different commands reached their posts in due season, but it was found difficult to open communication between Generals Humnphreys and Warren along the Vaughan road. General Gregg proceeded to l)inwiddie Court-House, and moved up and down the Vaughan road and captured some eight- een wagons and fifty prisoners, including one colonel. Finding that the Boydton road was but little used since the destruction of the bridges on that road and on the Weldon railroad, he returned to Malones Bridge, on Hate hers Run. At 4.15 p. in. the enemy, with what was reported to be Hills corps and Gordons and Pegrains divisions, attacked Humphreys. They were handsomely repulsed, with a loss to Humphreys of 300. Since this force had attacked Humphreys right, consisting of but one division entire and one brigade, it became necessary to send for men enough to hold our communications with oar rear line. One division of the INiuth and one division of the Sixth Corps were therefore ordered to re-enforce Humphreys. Warren, with the cavalry, has been ordered to connect with his left and to report to him. In the morning, if II find that this force of the enem Page 392 392 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. LVIII. is outside of his works, I shall attack and drive him into them, taking advantage of anything disclosed by the operation. iDuring the day it is estimated that we have taken 100 prisoners. GEG. 0-. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 1865. Capt. P. SCHUYLER: Order out the brigade at this headquarters tO report to officer com- manding in our front north of these headquarters to move out before daylight. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, February 5, 1865. liespectfnlly referred to Colonel Tippin, Sixty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, who will carry out the within instructions. He can include in his ~ommand the detachment of the First Indiana Cavalry, to act as orderlies, & c.; it is only twenty-one men strong. PH. SCHUYLER, Captain, Fourteenth Infantry, in Charge of Office. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 1865. Capt. P.- SCHUYLER: The major-general commanding directs that the officer in command of the Provisional Brigade report with his command to the division commander in charge of the works in front and north of these head- quarters by daylight to-morrow, the 6th instant. Very respectfnlly, & c., S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, February 5, 186511.30 a. m. Captain DAViS, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Sergeant Jndsou reports all quiet, and that a train of ten wagons moved to onr left on Pocahontas road this a. ni. Lieutenant Lyon has been notified. F. S. BENSON Page 393 CHAP. LVIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 393 TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 5, 186512.30 p. m. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Capt. C. L. DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: A force of the enemy, numbering about 600, has just left the camp to our left of Mrs. Harts house, disappearing in the woods to the left. FEAREY, Signal Officer. TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 5, 18653 p. in. (Received 3.07 p. in.) Capt. C. L. DAVIs, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: A force of the enemy, about three regiments, taking four and a half minutes to pass, have left the camp 10 degrees west of north, going at quick time to our left on the Cox road; also, four regiments left camp at Boisseans going in same direction, taking eight and a half minutes to pass. FEARE Y, Signal Officer. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, February 5, 18653 p. m. Captain DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: The following is reported from Tower: Another column of enemy marching toward left, in rear of works by Harts house. They have been passing twenty-two minutes, but it is a light column. Another column on Cox road, five minutes passingfour Iegiments; they come from behind woods to right. A force of the enemy, about three regiments, taking about four and a half minutes to pass, have left the camp 10 degrees west of north, going at quick time, to our left on the Cox road; also four regiments left camp at Boisseans going in same direction, taking eight and a half minutes to pass. The station at Fort Davis reports dense smoke in rear of large firt to left of lead-works. BENSON, Lieutenant and Signal Ogicer. ~%Copy to Major-General Webb.) FEBRUARY 5, 18653.55 p. m. Captain DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer: The Tower Station reports twelve wagons moving toward Peters- bnrg. Another column of infantry has passed westward five minutes in passing, and followed by five ambulances on Cox road. The light column of infantry reported as marching to our left halted for fifteen minutes to left of Mrs. Harts house, breaking into small squads; then marched in irregular column toward the right, and are halted in rear of their works, a little to the left of Mrs. Harts house. Heavy column of smoke rising 10 degrees west of south about four miles distant. All quiet on the right. F. S. BENSON. (Copy to Major-General Webb. Page 394 394 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQIJARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18654.10 p. rn. Captain DAViS: The station in front of Fort Howard reports about 100 cavalry pass- ing west ou Boydton plank road. All quiet in enemy~s camps. BENSON. (Copy to Major-General Webb.) FEBRUARY 5, 18654.45 p. m. Capt. C. L. DAVIS, Signal Officer: The following has just been received from Tower Station: Infantry stragglers still going to left on Cox roa(1. At 3.45 p. m. heard distant firing 40 degrees south of west. Heavy columns of smoke have been rising in direc- tion southeast of south southeast, quite distant. A column of infantry just passed a point on Boydton road 35 degrees west of north, marching fast and in close order, taking thirteen minutes passing, going toward our left. BENSON, Signal Officer and Acting Adjutant. (Copy to Major-General Webb.) HEADQUNRTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18655.45 p. m. Captain DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Lieutenant Lyon reports the enemy have heavy works across the open field beyond Armstrongs white house, with picket-line in front; two guns in view; very few of enemy in sight behind works, picket- line heavy. Cannonade, which just occurred, was from enemy and from this line of works beyond white house. Sergeant Jndsou reports seeing thirty horses with artillery harness on standing near high work to left of columbiad, l)nt were not attached to pieces. No movement on the right during the day. F. S. BENSON, Lieutenant, cec. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Captain DAVIS: The following troops have all passed toward our left: About 600 infantry left the camp near Mrs. hartsabout three regiments, four and one-half minutes passing; four regiments, eight and one-half min- utes passing; four regiments, five minutes passing; column, five min- utes passing, followed by five ambulances, all on C ox road. A light irregular column moved in rear of breast-works to left of Harts house, and were twenty-two minutes passing. They were sometimes single and sometimes double file. A column, marching close and fast on th Page 395 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 395 Boydton road, were thirteen minutes passing toward left. I could see part of them halt in works and they remained there the rest went behind the wood, arid do not know whether they halted. Too windy for accurate observation. FEAREY. [Indorsement.] General WEBB: This officers reports are perfectly reliable. This is a synopsis of all he has seen, and he can see all that goes to our left. CHAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, d~c. TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 5, 186512 midnight. Captain DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: There is a light indicating camp-fires visible 10 degrees south ~f west, and distant six or seven miles froni this station. There has also just sprung up a large fire north from this station, and I should think north of Cox road. Several small camp-fires noticed along the enemys works, extending from Mrs. Harts house to a point 35 degrees west of north. One train of cars heard on South Side Railroad during the night. YAK B. SLEEPER, Sergeant, Signal Corps. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, February 5, 18651.40 p. m. Colonel BRAINERD, Commanding Engineer Brigade and Deftnses, City Point: Move up promptly with all your available force of infantry to the neighborhood of Meades Station and report to General Parke. Report your strength to General Parke l)y telegraph. Leave the necessary pickets on Baileys Creek and your left and leave your artillery. By order of General Meade: ALEX. S. WEBB, Breret Major- General and Chi~f of Staff. CITY POINT, February 5, 1865. General A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Yonr dispatch of 1.30 p. m. received at 2.15 p. m. Available force of this command, 1,900. WESLEY BRAIXERD, - Colonel, Commanding Page 396 39(3 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, February 5, 18655.25 a. rn. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Star: The cavalry officer who was to have reported here with detachment at 1 a. m. has Dot yet reported. A. A. IIUMPHliEYS, Major- General. He is ordered to report at~ a. m. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Vaughan Road, February 5, 18659.45 a. m. Major-General MEADE: The head of Dc Trobriaiids brigade has crossed the run after some opposition. The bridges are destroyed and the run filled with logs and nearly obstructed. General Smyth is at the crossing at Arm- strongs Mill. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General. FEBRITARY 5, 18656.25 p. 111. General MEADE: Everything right. They have tried to take our line, but failed. A. A. HUMPHREYS. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Hatchers Run, February 5, 18659 r. rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS: I have directed Major-General Warren, with the Fifth Corps and Greggs cavalry, to report to you and to withdraw to this point. With these troops and the divisions of the Sixth and Ninth Corps I wish you to hold your present position, extending as far as possible toward our line of works. Should the enemy attack you again and be repulsed, or,if circumstances justify it, I wish you to attack him and drive him, if practicable, into his works. I shall be at my headquarters at the Aiken house in telegraphic communication with you. After General Warren is in l)ositiOn you cm use the cavalry to watch your left and your rear, from whence we may expect in time the enemys cavalry from Belfield. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 186510 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: Major Sanders reports that just before leaving Warren, three squad- rons of Greggs command came in, reporting they had been cut off from the rear guard by the enemys cavalry. If this should be the case an Page 397 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 397 Gregg not able to open the road to Warren, the latter will be obliged to withdraw his artillery and trains by the Vaughan road. I directed Col- onel Duane to send all his available engineer force to put the Vaughan road in order. Have you heard anything from Warren~ GEG. G. MEADE, Miajor- General. HATCHERS RUN, February 5, 186510.30 p. m. Major-General MEADE: I have this moment heard from General Warren in reply to your note. He says he will send the trains back at once and the divisions up as soon as possible. Captain Clarke, of his staff; brings the note and reports to me. He says there were only a few men of Greggs cav- alry who were cut off by a small part of the enemy. A. A. HUMPTIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS AEMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 186511.30 p. rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS: Major Jay, aide-de-camp, in carrying a dispatch to General Gregg, was either captured or killed. We found tue rebels (probably cavalry) at the Malone Crossing, or where the Malone road leaves the Halifax road. This is probably a cavalry force mnovimy up from Stony Creek. Please notify General Warren of this and ask him ~o coinniunicate this to General Gregg. Arrange with General Warren Vo (letach from your command a sufficient infantry force and a cavalry regiment to proceed to the neighborhood of Colonel Wyatts house to cover the Halifax road. Since this is probably their whole cavalry force, it may be better for General Warren to exert himself to communicate with General Gregg and advise him of the condition of affairs. Warrens division ordered to cross had better probably be sent to Colonel Wyatts house, with a brigade advanced to cover the Halifax road. This force will be in posi- tion to aid you in holding your right should this prove necessary. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. General Gregg must be governed by circumstances, either to cut his way through or to come up and cross by the Vaughan road or by Perkins. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Major-General HU1VIPHREYS: Two deserters from the enemy report that Heths and Mahones divisions moved to their right to-day. The enemy appear to be coming up into their works in my front from the direction of Petersburg. N. A. MILES, Brevet Major- General Page 398 398 N. AND SE; VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18652 p. m. General MILES, First Division: The commanding general directs that you send a strong brigade to relieve General McAllister in the position now occupied by him near the Tucker house. You will please give the general timely notice when the brigade approaches so that he may direct his iiispector-general to point out the ground. CARNCIIOSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Major CARNUROSS: A brigade will relieve General McAllister as soon as it can march to him. It leaves camp immediately and should be there at 3.45 p. m. N. A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865 3.15 p. m. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General: The enemy have been moving a very heavy column to their right for the last hour and a half. The column is still passing. N. A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18654 p. m. General MILES, Commanding First Division, Seco itd Corps: Are you firing or is this from the enemy ~ ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. General WEBB: There is no firing in my front. It is west-southwest from these headquarters~ N. A. MILES, Brevet Major- General Page 399 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 399 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Maj. S. CARNCROSS: May I relieve the Fourth New York Artillery from work on Fort Fisher by men from the garrisons ~ I wish to send them with the brigade which goes to relieve General McAllister. Seven regiments of the enemy are reported moving to their right at double-quick inside their works opposite Fort Welch. NELSON A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC February 5, 18655.10 p. m. Major-General MILES: Be prepared to send all your force except your 1)ickets and garrisons to assist the right of General Iiumphreys. Be prepared to move down. ALEX. S. WEBB Brevet Major- Gefteral and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Major CARNCROSS: The brigade has been gone two hours and a half. I will recall it at once. NELSON A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, February 5, 1865. Major S. CARNCROSS: Five deserters came into my picket-linethe extreme left. They were in the fight a few momeiits; report Hills whole corps massed on this side of Hatchers Hun, their left flank about 400 yards from the picket- line. 1 hear heavy musketry and artillery in your direction. NELSON A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS Brevet Major-General MOTT, February 5, 18658.15 p. m. Commanding Third J)ivisioa GENERAL: The major-general commanding the corps directs inc to say that General Warren is ordered to move with his whole carps up the Vaughan road and relieve you. Upon being relieved you will move the troops you have over the run onto this side in rear of McAllisters brigade and Ramseys brigade, and hold them in reserve. You will take command of your own troops and also General Ifaniseys; you will support General Smyth with such part of your reserve as he may reqnire, and all troops of General Smyths you may find in rear of General McAllister you will send back to report to General Smyth Page 400 400 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. In directing the withdrawal of your infantry you will also direct the withdrawal of the cavalry. Upon taking your new position you will find ou your right a strong division of the Ninth Corps, with reserves, commanded by General Hartranft. You can call upou General Hart- ranft in case you need assistance. On General Hartranfts right is a division of the Sixth Corps connecting with Fort Cummings. Very respectfully, H. H. BINGHAM, Major and Inspector- General, Second Corps. See that you have the full amount of ammunition on hand. H. H. B. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Crossing of Vaughan Road and Rowanty Creek, February 5, 186511.30 a. m. (Received 12.45 p. in.) Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN: Major-General Hnmphreys has taken possession of the crossing at this point and has taken position here. The telegraph is now at this poiht, and the general commanding has his headquarters here for the present. He is in communication with general headquarters, and will keep Colonel Barstow, at that point, informed of his movements. You can communicate throngh the old headquarters. ALEX. S. WEBB, Breret Major- General and Chief of Staff~. hATCHERS RUN, February 5, 186511.30 a. m. (Received 1.48 p. in.) General WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: We reached here at 10 a. in., and found the enemys cav- alry defending the crossing and picketing along the stream. After some little skirmishing a part of General Gwyns brigade, along with the dismounted cavalry, charged across the stream and captnred about thirty of the enemy. This was done at 11 a. in. I have not yet heard from General Gregg, nor made any connection with him as yet. I have heard firing all the morning at the crossing of the Van ghau road. The stream is very difficult to cross here, and requires a large bridge, sixty feet wide at least. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Crossing of Halifax Road, February 5, 18652.30 p. m. (Received 5 p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: At present we only hold one ihile of the Vaughan road from the crossing. At 9 oclock this morning a brigade of infantry left its cam Page 401 CHAP. LYTIT.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 401 and moved to cover this crossing. It has been iii front uf General lluinphreys, and is there now. Pegram~s division is supposed to be there. Some prisoners taken report they belong to his command, and expected rest of the division to follow them. The Vaughan road is, therefore, open from a point one mile from here to you. Should the enemy attempt to interpose a force on this road both you and General Humnphreys will turn your attention to keeping it open. General llumphreys is now trying [to] pnsh his cavalry down. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff HEADQUARTERS, Near J. Haryrares, February 5, 18654.30 p. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I forward the inclosed commnuication, just written by a staff officer from General Gregg. I am now about in the position ordered for me to take. I have built a good wagon bridge over Rowanty Creek. I will await orders here. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. [Inolosure.] VAUGHAN ROAD, February 5, 18654.30 p. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: GENERAL: General Gregg has directed me to conimunicate with you, and to inform you that he is now returning from Dinwiddie Court. House, and will stop at Malones Bridge across Rowanty Creek to-night; that no force was found at the Court-House, the enemy who were en- camped within three miles of there having marched into the works at Petersburg. Eighteen wagons and teams, several rebel officers (1 col- onel), a mail, and 50 or 60 prisoners were captured. Very respectfully, H. E. TREMAIX, Major and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18655 p. m. Major-General WARREN: General Gregg has been ordered to report to you at once with his command. The general commanding wishes him to be placed on your left for the present. General Humphreys has been heavily attacked on his right, but has thus far repulsed the enemy. It may become necessary to move you on the Vaughan road to support General Hum. phreys. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Stafl~. 26 i~ RYOL XLVI, PT I Page 402 402 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA ., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTo1~IAc, February 5, 1865. Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN: Owing to the diffienity attending the mode of communication with you by the route on the east side of Hatchers Run, it has become very important to hold open the Vaughan road, and the general commanding has on this account modified your orders and directs that you hold with your command a point in the vicinity of Mr. llargraves and Mrs. Davis instead of the point designated as J. Hargraves in your instruc- tions. You will thus be in l)osition to assist in holding the Vaughan road. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet iiiliajor- General and Chief of Staff~. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH Amx~v Coups, Februar~ 5, 18657.30 p. m. General WEBB: I have Crawfords division and a battery at the place where my route struck the Vaughan road. Ayres is where the Quaker road comes in, and Griffin at J. Hargraves. I shall draw Griffin back if no farther advance is required, but have kept him there till you learn the full results of this evenings attacks and make your plans for to-morrow. The roads are very bad in spots. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEAD~UARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 1865. (Received S p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: Reports from deserters show that probably Hills whole corps and some other divisions are massin~ to attack General Humphreys. It may be necessary to withdraw you to support him, and in this case should you receive such orders you will be subject to them, and will report to him with your command, moving by the Vaughan road, bring- ing with you only your reserve ammunition, sending everything else, artillery, ambuk nces, and wagons, back with General Gregg. Geiieral Gregg will only detail such portion of his command as may be necessary to take them (the wagons) safely to their camps, and will report with the rest of his command to General Humphreys here. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet .~lfajor- General and Chief of AS~ta7f. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18659 p.m. Major-General WARREN: Major-General Gregg has been ordered to report to you. Move up with your command by the Vaughan road to Hatchers Run and cross one division to this side. The other two will hold a line from Arm Page 403 CHAP. LVIIJ.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UN1ON. 403 strongs Mill to this crossing now held by General Mott, whom you will relieve. Bring with you to this point all of General Greggs cavalry not necessary to COllVO~ the trains already excluded from your move- ment to their camps. Report by a staff officer at once to General Humphreys for specific orders. Now bring your ambulances with you as ~)rolnptly as possible. By command of General Meade: ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. Furnish an escort, if necessary, to take him to General Gregg if Gen- eral Gregg has not yet i-eported to you. HEADQUARTERS SECOND Coups, February 5, 186510.53 p. m. (Received 11.20 p. in.) General A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staft Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The following is the answer to the dispatch I carried to General Warren: HEADQUARTEHS FIFTH ARMY Coups, General WEBB: - February 5, i8G59.15 p. in. I have just received your dispatch by Captain Emory, and sent Captain Clarke to report to General Humplireys. You have said in one dispatch before this last for me to take orders from General Humphreys, but I presume you do not mean this literally. Captain Emoi-y does not think your dispatch meant foi- him to go to General Gregg, so I have sent Captain Cope with an escort. I dont know the ro~ d to get to him, but will try to find out. I will scud thc train back at once and the divisions u as soon as I can. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. Respectfully, C. I). EMORY, Captain and Aide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18659 a. m. General IIUMPHREYS: I have just received your dispatch, announcing that you were going to make a demonstration and attack the enemy at once on outside of his works. I have directed General Crawford to be in instant readiness to support you. Griffin has established his line. The enemy has vedettes in his front. Deserters say their main line extends south to Gravelly Run, about a mile west of Dabneys Mill. Gregg has just reported skirmishing with the enemy on the road we have come up. I am preparing to meet anything that may occur, and await for develop- ments in this direction. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General Page 404 404 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARAY CORPS, February 5, 18655.15 p. m. (Received 6 P. in.) Major-General WARREN: I will picket down the Vaughan road as far as the Gravelly Run bridge and coniiect with your pickets at that point, and thus keep open the communication between us. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18656.45 p. m. Brevet Major-General GRIFFIN: GENERAL: The enemy have made this evening a very heavy attack on Suiyths division, of Second Corps, on north side of Hatchers Run, and General Motts division was sent back across the run to its support. I have not heard the result yet. This information was brought to me by one of General Meades staff, who br onght me an order saying that J. Hargraves, where you are now, is too far out and wishes me to be in force where we struck the Vaughan road. I have therefore ordered all of Crawfords division back to that point at once, and you must make arrangements to hold the road to Dinwiddie Court-House, which Braggs brigade will vacate. I will make no other change, but will have to withdraw you very early in the morning if not to-night. Keep one squadron of that cavalry with you and send the rest here. I have not heard the result of the light this evening. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPs, February 5, 18659.30 p. m. General GRIFFIN: I am ordered to move my command up the Vaughan road as promptly as possible. I wish you to move with your division as soon as you can draw it in. Leave the cavalry picketing the roads, and have the officer commanding it send some one to my headquarters to know when to withdraw it. On arriving at Hatchers Run, unless you receive other instructions from General Meade, relieve General Motts division now holding the line this side of Hatchers Ruii from the crossing of the Vaughan road up to Armstrongs Mill. All my wagon train will follow you, and I wish it parked as near the crossing of Hatchers Rnn as possible, and set the pioneers to repairing the bridge, if necessary. Stop and see me as you pass my headquarters. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 186510.20 a. mu. Co]. GEORGE D. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General: 1 have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twepty-four hours. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major.General, Commanding Page 405 CRAP. LVIII.l COR1~ESPONDENCE, BTO.UNION. 405 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18655.30 p. m. & ~eneral GETTY: Withdraw from your line that portion of one division not on picket ~nd in the works, and hold it in readiness to move at a moments notice. Assemble it on the Vaughan road just outside of the works. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5,18656.10 p.m. General WEBB, Chief of Staff: Your telegram receive(l. It shall be attended to immediately. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Corn manding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 1865. COMMANDiNG OFFICER SIXTH CORPS: Report the strength of the division you will send down. A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Major-General WEBB: Telegram received. The First Division (strength 4,400 men) will be in readiness. GEG. MT GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 1~65G.30 p. m. Major-General GETTY: As soon as General Hartranfts division shall have passed let your division follow, and let the commanding officer send a staff officer ahead to report liere to General Hnmphreys. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18656.55 p. m. (Received 7 p. in.) Major-General GETTY: Major-General Humphreys has been heavily attacked on his right, but has repulsed the enemy. Should your division be ready to move before General Hartranft arrives let it move at once, the commanding officer reporting as direeted. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Staff Page 406 406 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. IIEADQIJARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18657.20 p. m. General WEBB: The division of the Ninth Army Corps is now passing. General Wheatotis division will follow immediately. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQIJARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 1865. (Sent 10.15 p. in.) General GETTY, Commandirty Sixth Corps: GENERAL: Distribute your two divisions so as to hold with them what you held before with three. By order of General Meade: ALEX. S. WEBB,~ Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS - SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 186511.80 p. m. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staft: The corps officer of the day reports unusual activity on the part of the enemy opposite to the portiou of the line recently occupied by the First Division. The long roll has just been sOnn(le(l in their camps, and they have advanced their vedettes. No demonstration against the lines has yet been made. GEO. ~. GETTY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. The minimum force required to hold the forts now garrisoned by this corps in the event of a movement is hereby designated to be as fol- lows: First DivisionFort Howard, 1 0 men; Battery 25,1150 men; Bat- tery 26, 150 men; Fort ,Davison, 200 men; Fort MeMahon, 150 men. Second DivisionFort Urmston ,200 men; Fort Conahey, 75 men; New fort, between Fort Keene and Fort Urinston, 75 men. Third Division Fort Wadsworth, 300 men; Fort Kecite, 150 mcii; Fort Dushane, 300 men. By command of Brevet iVI a~jor-General Getty: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Division commanders will hold their commands in readiness to move at an early hour this morning, provided with f~oiir days rations. The mi nimnin force necessary to hold the inclosed works now garrisoned by the corps will be left behind, as well as the present picket detail Page 407 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNTON. 407 A detail from the First Division will be required to hold Fort 1-low- ard and Batteries Nos. 25 and 26150 men each. A tabular statement of the number required to hold each fort will be sent before the movement is made. By command of Brevet Major-General Getty: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Brigadier-General SEYMOUR, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: By direction of the brevet Inajor-general commanding, you will please order one of your brigades to at once occupy the part of the line hitherto held by the First Division. You will also please send a staff officer to report for instructions at these headquarters a little in advance of the brigade. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. II. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. - HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18652 a. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The circular from headquarters received a short time since states, in reference to the movement of this corps, Anticipating that the movement to be ordered will consist of the withdrawal of all the troops except the minimum nnmber necessary to maintain the picket-line and the garrison of the works. I am somewhat bothered to know whether I am to make this withdrawal at once or to await further orders before withdrawing them,i.e., those in the main line who are in excess of the minimum required to hold the garrison and picket-line. In conversa- tion with the major-general commanding, I understood Thm to say that one division of about 6,000 men would be sufficient. I have in reserve one division, 4,000 strong, and on the line two divisions, one of about 5,500 muskets, and the other about 5,200 muskets. Is it the desire of the major-general commanding that a portion of each division be with- drawn, or shall I leave one division in charge of the whole line, increas- ing its strength to 6,000 ~ The courier will await an answer. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18651.29 p. m. (Sent 1.40 p. in.) Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The general commanding directs that you send General Hartranfts division, without artillery, promptly amid rapidly down the Yanghan road, to report to Major-General Humphreys at Hatchers Run. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet ililiajor- General and Chief of Staff. Acknowledge receipt of message and timne. Move as much as possi- ble out of sight of the en~my. A. S. W Page 408 408 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Byt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: Your dispatch in reference to General llartranfts division received, and orders sent out immediately. The division is now concentrating at Fort Blaisdell and will move at once. JNO. G. PARKE,. Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Crossing of Hatchers Bun, February 5, 18651.48 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Co~ps: The commanding officer Engineer Brigade and Defenses of City Point has received orders to report to you at or near Meades Station, without artillery. He will report by telegraph to you. ALEX. S. WEBB Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18654 p. m. Major-General PARKE: Your troops to join General Humphreys must not halt, but must be pushed forward rapidly. Do not wait to concentrate, but send up by brigades. Do not let them bring their wagon train down the Vaughan road; let them park near our rear line. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet ]Jiilajor- General and Chief of Stat!. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 1865. Bvt. Maj. Gen. 0. B. WILLOOX, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general conimanding directs, in pursuance of orders from headquarters Army of the Potomac, that the troops of your command be supplied with four days rations and the l)rescribed aniount of ammunition as soon after daylight this morning as practicable. Further orders will be furnished you in reference to withdrawal from or change in distribution of the troops on the line. The chief com- missary of subsistence of the corps has received orders in reference to rationing the troops. 1 have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. M. LYDIG, Assistant Adj.utant- General. (Same to Bvt. Maj. Gen. H. B. Potter, commanding Second I)ivision. Page 409 CHAI~. LVIJI.1 COR1~ESPONDENC~, ETC.UNION. 409 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18G5. Brig. Gen. JOHN F. HARTRANFT, Commanding Third Dirision: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you hold your troops in readiness to march at short notice, supi)lied with four days rations and the prescribed amount of ammunition. The chief commissary oC subsistence of the corps has received orders with reference to the rations, and they will be issued to the men as soon after day- light this morning as practicable. The commanding general does not expect you to strike your tents until further orders. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, P. M. LYDJIG, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION CAVALRY, February 5, 18G54.20 p. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I arrived at Dinwiddie Court-House at about noon to-day. The Boydton plank road for ten days past has been very little used for wagoning; the only wagons I could hear of and could find by exam- ination up and down the road I capturedeighteen in all. A division of infantry, camped four miles above Dinwiddie Court-House, broke camp early this morning and went within the line of works about Petersburg. Before leaving Dinwiddie I sent a party to J. Hargraves, but could find nothing of the Fifth Army Corps. The only information 1 could obtain from prisoners ai~d contrabands is that one brigade (South Carolina), formerly commanded by Butler, has gone south. The remainder of the cavalry is about Belfield and north toward Jar- rafts. A courier passed Dinwiddie with orders to the cavalry to move up. Owing to the destruction of the bridge on the Boydton plank road and on the Weldon railroad but small amounts of stores are at Belfield. One regiment of cavalry opposed my advance. I have about fifty prisoners, including one colonel and three other coinmis- sioned officers. 1 have communicated with General Warren, and will place my command at Malones Bridge, on the Kottoway, and await further orders. The roads are the worst possible. Yours, respectfully, D. MCM. GEEGG, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 18656.25 p. m. Major-General GREGQ 6~ommanding Cavalry: The major-general commanding directs that you immediately report to General Warren, with your command. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 410 410 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. FOHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, February 5, 18654.20 p. m. (Received 5.30 p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Army Corps: GENERAL: I have been at Dinwiddie Court-House. There are but few wagons passing on the Boydton plank road. All (eighteen) that I could hear of I captured. A (IjYision of infantry that had beeu camped four miles above Dinwiddie Court-House, on the plank road, broke camp this morning and went to Petersburg. I am now moving back to Malones Crossing of the Rowanty, where I will bivouac and report to General Meade. This point is on the military road, two miles and a half from the Vaughan road. The roads are so bad that my command can scarcely get along at all. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 1). MoM. GREGG, Brevet Major- General of Volunteers, Comdg. Second Cavalry Dsvisson. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 5, 18659.85 p. m. Brevet Major-General GREGG: GENERAL: I am (lirected to furnish you with the following, just received from Major-General Meade.* G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 186510.30 p. m. Major-General GREGG, Commanding Cavalry: At 6.25 p. m. to-day orders were sent to you to report with your com- mand to Major-General Warren, on the road to Dinwiddie Court-House. General Warren is to move up at once to report to Major~General Hum- phreys at the crossing of the Vaughan road and Hatchers Run. You are to get his trains to their old camp with such a force as may be thought necessary to guard them, and to report with the remainder of your cavalry to General Warren. Gene al Hnmphreys right is attacked by A. P. Hills corps, and to-morrow Hill is to f be] driven in. You will receive orders from General Hninphreys after the junction of the Sec- ond Corps. General Huinphreys repulsed the enemy. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF NORFOLK AND PORTSMOUTH, Portsmouth, Va., February 5, 1865. Colonel LEWIS: COLONEL: Send a party of fifty men to Isle of Wight Court-House, under charge of a competent officer, with instructions to send a strong patrol toward Smithfield to co-operate with General Graham, who will * See Webb to Warren, 9 p. iii., p. 402 Page 411 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 411 be in that neighborhood to-morrow forenoon. The object of the cay- airy will be to intercept any men who may be driven out of Smithfield by General Graham. The patrol sent toward Smithfield can ascertain by inquiry if General Grahams forces have landed. The cavalry will also endeavor to intercept any straggler that may attempt to escape by the Bacon Castle road. By order of Brigadier-General Yogdes: S. L. MdIIENRY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. WINCHESTER, February 5, 1865. (Received 5.10 p. in.) Hoi~. B. M. STANTON: The following telegram has been received from Brigadier-General Stevenson: The engine and tender of freight train was thrown from the track by a party of rebels between this post and Duffields night before last. The engineer and fireman were captnred and plundered of their money, watches, & c., and then released. There was no other damage done there, so far as I am advised. Nothing but empty burthen cars in the train. I forwarded yon yesterday Colonel Renos report of the party and the way in which he did not catch them. They were on road again last night, but did nothing. JOHN D. STEVENSON. P. II. SHERIDAN, Me~jor- General. WINCHESTER, VA., February 5, 1865. lion. B. M. STANTON: 1 will send a regiment of cavalry to Dufflelds Station to cover the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad at the point where the guerrilla parties give annoyance. The parties now creating mischief are furloughed men, who are secreted at the houses in that section of the country. I have given directions to destroy farms wherever the men are found. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, February 5, 1865. J. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant-General: All quiet. A patrol was sent below Occoquan and has not yet returned. They are in search of horse thieves. Respectfully, II. II. WELLS, Provost-Marshal- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIDDLE MIL1TARY DIVISION, February 5, 1865. Brig. Gen. T. C. 1)EVIN, Commanding AS1eeond Brigade, First Cavalry Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you will detail a strong regiment to take position at Duffields Station, or as near that point as practicable, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, with instru Page 412 412 N. AND ~E. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. IVIIL tions to protect the road in that vicinity. That neighborhood has of late been infested with guerrillas and men from the rebel army who are visiting their friends, getting clothes, plundering, & c. These men have of late committed depredations on the railroad, throwing trains off the track and robbing the passengers. The commanding officer will make dispositions to prevent this in future in that vicinity, He will send out parties to scour the country and dispose of the lawless ruffians who are committing the outrages spoken of. No quarter will be given these persons who have destroyed by their actions the right to be treated as prisoners of war. When a guerrilla is found on a plantation or at a habitation the fences, & c., of the farm will be destroyed, and the citi- zens generally will be given to understand that if they continue to harbor these villains they will be turned from their houses and sent through our lines. The regiment will select an eligible cantonment near Duffields Station and construct quarters and shelter for men and horses. Supplies will be drawn from iDuftields Station. Let the regimental commander make proper dispositions and report them through your headquarters. Frequent reports must be made, and energy, industry, and tact exercised in the discharge of this duty. Detach the regiment without delay. Acknowledge receipt. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, A. F. HAYDEN, Assistant Adjutant- ~i9eneral. HEADQUAiRTERS MiDDLE MILITARY DIvISION, February 5, 1865. General STEVENSON: Have the trains on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad been disturbed lately ~ P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- Ueneral. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, February 5, 1865. General STEVENSON: The Secretary of War telegraphs inc that a train was thrown off the track and robbed about three miles and a half from harpers Ferry night before last; how is it%~ P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- 6reneral. HARPERS FERRY, February 5, 1865. Major.General SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.: A freight train was thrown off the track night before last, doing no damage, except delaying other trains. It was done by a party ef rebels, about thirty in number. I sent you yesterday Colonel Renos report of his effbrts to capture the party and failure, with particulars. Same party was on road again last night, but as Reno had full notic Page 413 CRAP. Lviii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 413 of their coming down he should have bag~ed them. Dave not heard from him on this last effort yet. Shall advise you of results as soon as reports are received. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Winchester, Va., February 5, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE CROOK, Cumberland: I sent a party out yesterday morning to strike Harry Gilmor, who was encamped four miles south of Moorefield. I thought best not to order any troops from New Creek to act in conjunction, on account of the difficulty of carrying out combinations. One party would be sure to get there before the other. Gilmor has been unable to control McNeill and Woodsons companies. They will not serve under him. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILiTARY DIVISION, Winchester, February 5, 1865. Maj. Gen. GEORGE CROOK, Gumberland: My information is that the old valley cavalry came from east side of Blue Ridge for want of forage, ai~d went over toward Warm Springs or south of that point. Wickhams brigade, of Rossers division, went east of Blue Ridge. Rossers brigade, 400 strong, six miles west of Staunton. Paynes brigade, Rossers division, back near Lexington. Two horse batteries disbanded; guns sent to Lynchburg; horses some- where else. Many of the men have come in here as deserters with their furloughs. Whartons division at Fishersville. Everything much scattered. Great suffering for want of forage. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., February 5, 18655.45 p. rn. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland, Md.: The following received from Bulltown, viz: A scout just in from beyond Addison reports a rebel force of 150 concentrated on Ganley River, about forty-five miles from Bulitown, who expect to join a force of 1,500, under Rosser, for a descent on Bulitown, as soon as possible. The scouts had a slight skirmish, and report wounding Captains Spriggs and Turning. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade Page 414 414 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CHAP. Lviii. BUOXHANNON, W.YA., February 5, 1865. Col. N. WILKINSON, Clarksburg: Scout sent to Beverly this morning have just reported by telegraph from Roaring Creek as follows: Just returned from Beverly. Some rebels came into Beverly this afternoon and took Major Hail and a rebel lieutenant with them. I think about fifteen or twenty in number. II. C. RJZER, Major. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., February 5, 1865. Maj. CHARLES II. DAY, Commanding, Builtown, 1W. Va.: Keep a sharp lookout and have your post in the best possible condi- tion for defending it to the last extremity should you be attacked. Every precaution must be taken by you to ascertain the approach of the enemy. Keep me fully advised daily. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. CITY POINT, VA., February 6, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The IRichinond Dispatch to.day says that a rumor was current yester- day that Sherman had reached and was destroying the railroad at Midway, ten miles west of Branchville. The Whig, however, says that the rumor was without foundation, as the tenor of official dispatches received at the War Department last evening renders it certain that such was not the case. On Saturday telegraphic communication was temporarily suspended with Augusta, but was resumed on yesterday. The Whig remarks that a repulse of Sherman, who is now apparently presumptuous on account of his unilnl)e(led march through Georgia, would work wonders in bringing the North to its senses. The Con- federate generals and the men under their commands on his front are counnissioners to whose pacific Qxertions the country may well look with anxious and prayerful solicitude. The Enquirer reports that the salt-works are again in successful operation. C. C. Clay, Jr., is reported having arrived in the Confederacy. The Peace Commissioners arrived in Richmond Saturday evening. The same evening a large war meet- ing was held, which was addressed by Henry A. Wise. Governor Smith issues a notice to-day to the citizens of Richmond, Va., and citizens of other States sojourning in Richmond, to meet this evening to respond to the answer made by President Lincoln to the Confederate deputies sent to confer with him on the sub~ject of peace. It is expected that Stephens will be invited by the Confederate Congress to address them before leaving for Georgia, whither it is rumored he intends going to arouse the people of that State to renewed vigor in prosecuting the war. The general tone of all the Richmond papers to-day says that there is nothing left for the $outh to do but to fight it out. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- 6Yneral Page 415 CHAP. LYiJI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 415 CITY POINT, VA., February 6, 1865Midnight. - Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: In the affair yesterday, when the enemy attacked a part of the Second Corps and were handsomely repulsed, leaving a part of their dead for ns to bury, onr losses were 3 officers aud 18 men killed, it officers and 92 men wonnded, and 22 men missing. In front of one brigade of Motts division he buried thirty-one of the enemy, and counted twenty-two graves besides, some of which were large enough for five or six bodies each. General Smyth estimates the loss of the enemy in his front at 200. Our captnres for the (lay were about 100 men, half of these taken by the cavalry, and the rest by the Fifth and Second Corps. This afternoon the Fifth Corps advanced and drove the enemy back onto their artillery, probably into their intrenchments beyond Dabney~s Mill. here the enemy was re-euforced, and drove Warren back. Our troops are still ont and will not be returned to their old position unless driven to it by the diffienlty of supplying them. The casnalties for to-day I will report as soon as learned. U. S. GP~ANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, February 6, 18652.34 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: General Ord is assigned, as requested. Before yonr telegram to tIme Secretary, General Gillmore had been sent South to relieve General Foster. I think his familiarity with that part of the coast and the defenses of Charleston render him most suitable for that command. There must be a change in Kentucky, and General Dix is proposed for the place. What do you think? As soon as we ge~ General Thomas views about department lines the matter must be acted on. General l)ix seems to be best suited for the I)Olitical complexion of affairs in hicntucky, though too old for active military operations. H. W. HALLECK, - Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., February 6, 18657 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington: I think General Dix will be an excellent selection for the command in Kentucky. I am glad to see Burbridge is about being removed from there. 1 should have much more faith in Terry than Gillmore for the command of the Department of the South and his admiuistration would be much more economical. however, we will do the best we can. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 416 416 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIL WASHINGTON, ID. C., February 6. 1865. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Va.: I want to go to Norfolk and other places in vicinity the last of this week to investigate for Congress the question of trade with rebel States. If you are to be here, however, at that time, I will (lel aygoing, as I want to see you to present medal, and also abont that Galena matter. Please answer by telegraph. E. B. WAS IIBURNE. CITY POINT, February 6, 1865. (Received 4.50 p. in.) Hon. E. B. WASHBURNE: I expect to be here all this week. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18651 a. rn. (Sent 1.15 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have just received intelligence that my aide, Captain Jay, taking orders to General Gregg, met the enemy iii force where the Malone road leaves the Halifax road. Jay was lired on and is missing, but his escort escaped. This is undoubtedly the enemys cavalry come up from Stony Creek. They are now in Greggs rear, on the road he took, and only one mile and a half from him if he is at Malones Bridge. I have sent this information to Warren, with divections to make every effort to communicate it to Gregg, and have instructed Warren to send a division to cover our rear on the Weldon railroad, as the cavalry may advance that way to-morrow morning. If Gregg gets my orders to r~join Warren through that officer, he can be withdrawn on the Vaughan road; but if Warrens staff officer meets the fate of Captain Jay Greggs position will be precarious, as the enemys cavalry will be in his rear, and their infantry, on Warrens withdrawal, now taking place, will iiiterpose between him and the Vaughan road. I am in hopes Warrens artillery and trains, ordered back on the rond he took, will get in safely. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18655.30 a. rn. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Major Jay has returned, and it is now certain that he was captured by our own men. None of the enemys cavalry in vicinity of Malones Crossing. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General Page 417 CHAP. LVJH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 417 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Lient. Gen. ~. ~. GRANT, February 6, 18657.15 a. rn. City Point: Major-Generals Warren and Humplireys have both telegraphed me this morning and informed me of their being in position, their right, well supported, near Fort Cummings, and two divisions of the Fifth Corps over Hatchers Run forming their left. Greggs cavalry is now with Warren. Trains all came up the Vaughan road. I have telegraphed to them to move ont at once, to determine whether or not Hills or any portion of the enemys force is now ontside of their line of works. In case any should be found they are to be driven in. Heth charged in two lines and was badly repulsed. Subsequently the whole of Hills corps participated in the attack. The above is the report of deserters. GEG. G. MEADE, Major. General. HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 18651 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: (Received 2.25 p. in.) Hnmphreys reconnaissance shows the enemy to have retired within his main line of works, leaving his dead on the field, now being buried by us. Warren, across Hatchers Run, is now moving out to feel the enemy. Deserters say their line now passes through Dabneys Mill to Gravelly Run, and it is probable Warren will find them in their line. If they are outside he will attack; if, however, they are not so found, your instructions will be required, as I have accomplished all originally designed or now practicable. The condition of the roads very bad, and want of trains and supplies precludes any extended movement to the left. It remains, therefore, either to intrench where we are or withdraw. If these partial movements are contemplated it would probably be well to extend our intrenched line to Hatchers Run, as this then would be point of departure, and we would be nearer to threaten the enemys line of communications on the Boydton plank road; at the same time the enemy, would, without doubt, extend their line, overlapping us, as they have done each time we extended. Your views and orders are desired. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 6, 18652.50 p. m. Major-General MEADE, (Received 3 i~. in.) Hatchers Run: I would not recommend making any attack against intrenched lines, but I think it will be well to hold out to Hatchers Run. It will give us a better chance for covering future movements, and when we do start we will entirely abandon all extension beyond our present lines. Please inform me about what our casualties have been and what you think have been those of the enemy. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. 27 R RYOL XLYI~ PT I Page 418 N. 4ND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. 418 [CHAP. LYIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, Hatchers Run, February 6, 18657.30 p. m. (Via Aikens House, 8.40 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Major-General Warren advanced about 2 p. m. on the Dabneys Mill and Vaughan roads. Both columns had a spirited contest with the enemy, and steadily drove him before them till about 6 p. in., when the column on the Mill road, having forced the enemy beyond Dabneys Mill and until he opened on them with artillery, indicating he was in his line of works, when, being re-enforced, Warrens troops were, in turn, compelled to retire in considerable confusion. The enemy was, however, checked before reaching the position occupied this morning, and Warrens troops rallied in this position. The column on the Vaughan road was recalled when the others were forced back. The troops are now formed in the lines occupied this morning. The fight- ing has been determined, principally in dense woods, and the losses con- siderable, particularly in the column compelled to retire. I am not able at present to give an estimate of them. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Captain DAVIS: There is a light, indicating camp-fires, visible 10 degrees south of west and distant six or seven miles from this statioii. There has also just sprung up a large fire north from this station and should think north from Cox road. Several small camp-fires noticed along the enemys works extending from Mrs. Harts house to a point 35 degrees west of north. One train of cars has [passed] on South Side Railroad during the night. YAK B. SLEEPER, Sergeant. TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 6, 18657 a. m. Captain DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Within an hour a light, indicating quite extensive camp-fires, has become visible 45 degrees west of south and four to five miles dis- tant. One train of cars heard on South Side Railroad since last report. The fire lights last reported are becoming dim. VAX B. SLEEPER, Sergeant, Signal Corps. TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 6, 18659 a. m. (Received 10 a. in.) Capt. C. L. DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer: About twenty stragglers going to left on Cox road. It is very quiet in all the enemys camps. There is smoke rising from but part of the camp to our left of Mrs. Harts. A few men seen in camp at Boissean s, but the doors of most of the tents appear to be open, and as if shelter Page 419 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 419 tents, used for doors, had been taken away. Can see no smoke rising from most of the large camp 1~ degrees west of north. The force reported last evening as taking position behind the works cannot be seen this morning. Six ambulances going to right on Cox road. FEAREY, (Copy to Brevet Major-General Webb.) Officer. HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 1865. Captain DAVIS: The following has been received from top of Armstrongs house (white): I notice no change since yesterday. A heavy picket-line through middle of open field to right of house. No new earth thrown up in any place. Very few, not twenty-five, of ellemy in view behind heavy line of works. Everything is all quiet here now. Our territory the same as yesterday p. m. I will report again, unless something occurs sooner, at noon. I. S. LYOX, AS~igftal Officer. OLD SECOND CORPS HEADQUARTERS, February 6, 18652.30 p. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: A force of the enemys infantry has been moving from your left and are now halted at a point north 70 degrees west from tower and some distance in rear of their works. I did not see head of colnmn, but there are three or four regiments in sight. The head of the column has appeared near Mrs. Harts house, coming from left, and has halted. A train of thirteen box-cars passed toward Petersburg; could not see any troops o~ them. Forty ambulances have passed on the Cox road toward right. FEAREY. TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 6, 18653 p. rn. Capt. C. L. DAVIS, (Received 3.55 ~. in.) Chief Signal Officer: The force of enemy reported at point north 70 degrees west from tower seems to be in a little ravine. They have built fires. The column which appeared to our left of Mrs. Harts has started again toward our right. They were seven minutes in passing a point, well closed and marching fast. They are just in rear of their works; still moving. Camp smokes at Boisseans have increased. FEAREY, Signal Officer. (Copy to Brevet Major-General Webb, headquarters Army of the Potomac. Page 420 [CHAP. LVIII. 420 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. OLD SECOND CORPS HEADQUARTERS, F!ebruary 6, 18651 p. rn. Captain DAVIS, Signal Officer: The force reported as moving to our right in rear of works has dis- appeared behind the woods in front of Fort Fisher. They have had time to appear to our right of wood, and as they have not I infer they have halted behind it. The force reported as lying at point north 70 degrees west has moved toward [heir right and rear and disappeared in woods; judge it to be a brigade. FEAREY. (Copy to General Webb.) HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, February 6, 1865. Capt. C. L. DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer, Hatchers Run: Sergeant Aiken reports a column of infantry, followed by twelve ambulances, passing east on Cox road abont half a mile east of lead- works. They were fifteen minutes in passing. No other movements observed to-day. A. B. CAPRON, First Lieutenant and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Captain DAVIS: 5 P.M. A column of infantry marching to our right on road west of Richmond pike; twenty minutes in passing a given point; also a small train of ambulances. NICHOLLS. 5 ~. M. Column of infantry just moved to our right on Pocahontas road, followed by nine ambulances and one, wagon. The troops were well closed up and marching very fast. They were fifteen minutes in passing a given point. JUI)SON. J. C. PAINE, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Captain DAVIS, Chief Signal Officer: 5.40 r. M. A train of black covered wagons, supposed to be ammunition wagons, just passed to our right on road near Richmond pike. NICHOLLS. J. C. PAINE, Captain, Signal Officer Page 421 CHAP. LVIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 421 TOWER SIGNAL STATION, February 6, 18656 p. m. Capt. C. L. DAVIS, (Received 7.20 ~. in.) Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The enemys camp smokes are about as heavy as they usually were before the present movement. It has become too smoky for observa- tion. FEAREY. (Copy to Major-General Webb.) TOWER SIGNAL STATION Februar Captain DAVIS , y 6, 186511.30 p. m. Chief AS1ignal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: There is a light, indicating camp-fires, seen about southwest from this station and should judge three or four miles distant. A few camp-fires visible along the enemys line of works extending from Boisseans prop- erty to a point north from this station. VAN B. SLEEPER, Sergeant, Signal Corps. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 13. Washington, February 6, 1865. I. The issue of a ration of fish, viz, fourteen ounces of dried fish or eighteen ounces of pickled fish, will be made to the troops once a week in lieu of the ration of fresh beef. III. Authority is hereby given to officers actually in the field who are without the means of paying for subsistence stores purchased from the commissary and have over one months pay due to draw for themselves and their authorized private servants present in the field with them one regular army ration each per day, on ordinary ration returns, which returns will be entered by the issuing commissary on separate abstracts of issues to officers. The officer drawing the rations will deduct from his pay accounts for each month the number of rations drawn in kind during the month, and the amount of such deduction will be transferred to the Subsistence Department from the Pay Depart- ment. Commissaries who issue rations in kind to officers for their own use will furnish the proper paymaster each month with the names of officers to whom such issues have been made and the number of rations to be deducted. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- qeneral. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 14. Washington, February 6, 1865. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. Ord, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the Department of Virginia. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- aeneral Page 422 [CiTAP. LVIII. 422 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 1865. General HinvipirREYS: Ma~jor Jay has returned, and the last dispatch in reference to Warrens division will be of no effect. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Stafi?. HATCHERS IRUN, February 6, 18652.30 a. rn. Major-General WEBB: Your last dispatch. saying Major Jay had returned, and that last dis- patch in reference to Warrens division will be of no effect, I do not understand. Please explain a little more. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18652.40 a. m. (Received 4 a. in.) Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS: Since Major Jay has returned, Warren need not send a division to the Wyatt house to guard the rear and the Halifax road. No cavalry but our own is there. Major Jay was captured by our men. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18652.40 a. m Major-General WEBB: GENERAL: Mott left 150 men as pickets in the vicinity of the Tucker house to the Halifax road, which I will direct him to bring out. I might thin out Miles picket-line from the vicinity of the Tucker house to the vicinity of Fort Cummings, but I do not think we could mate- rially strengthen Miles by it. lVIott is also to send into his camp and bring out every available man, except the convalescents who will per- form guard duty. Smyth will do the same. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 18656.40 a. m. Major-General WEBB: Everything remains quiet. The troops of the Sixth and Ninth Corps were got into position last night, and hold the line strongly to Fort Cummings, with strong reserves. Warrens infantry came up before morning and Greggs cavalry are coming up now. All of Mott is now oiii the right of Smyth. Warrens commission is a little older than mine. I have communicated with him and expect [him] here. Two men of Davis brigade, Heths division, came in to Smyth after th Page 423 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 423 fight last night, arid say all of Heths division attacked the right of Smyth, suffered severely, and fell back into their works again at once; that all Hills corps came out and attacked the right of Smyth and McAllisters and Ramseys brigades. and he thinks they suffered severely when they were repulsed. A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, ilfajor- General. HATCHEgS RUN, February G, 18657.20 a. m. Major-General WEBB: Deserters from Gordons, Mahones, and ileths divisions state all of Hills corps and Gordons division, of Earlys old corps, formed the attacking force yesterday. Gordons division was on their left, and Mahones came np and supported it toward sunset. They say their troops fell back to their intrenchments last night. I am about exam-~ ining and sending forward some force to feel in onr front. A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TILE POTOMAC, February 6, 18657.50 a. m. Major-General HUMPUREYS: The major-general commanding directs that you feel the enemy in your front and determine whether or not they are outside their line of works. In case you find them outside you will attack them at once and drive them within their works; but should you find that they are now posted inside their line the major-general commanding does not order an attack. It is not his (lesign to make an attack upon their forti~ed line, but he does not think they should be permitted to occupy any ground outside of that line. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to Major-General Warren.) HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 18658.40 a. m. Major-General WEBB: As soon as I had arranged with General Warren I rode down to Mott, where I amnow, to send out recomn~aissance fromnhinm and Hartranft and attack if I found the enemy outside their works. Your tele~-ram to that effect reached me just as I was arriving at Motts headquarters. I have ordered out the recounaissances and directed all my troops to be ready to attack. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HATCHERS RuN, February 6, 18659.40 a. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB: GENERAL: My headquarters are in the vicinity of the Tucker house. I have left an operator for General Warren. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding Second Army tlorps Page 424 424 N. ANI) SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February [6], 1865. General HUMPHREYS: Heavy firing was heard from these headquarters thirty minutes since. Call you tell us what it was ~ A. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 186511 a. m. Major.General WEBB: An officer of my staff who went out with General De Trobriands recon- naissance reports that he found a skirmish or picket line of the enemy in an old line of works (ours) near the Watkins house, from which he drove them into their main line, in sight of which he advanced to. Seeing that his force was small they moved a force toward their right, apparently with the object of coming out and intercepting him. He changed his direction to meet this, and should they be induced to come out he will be supported and account for them. The reconnaissance from the Ninth Corps was in his vicinity, iiear the Watkins house. It has not yet reported. I have sent out to it. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, February 6, 186511.15 a. m. (Sent 11.45 a. in.) Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: General Hartranft reports that his reconnaissance advanced to the house beyond the abandoned redoubt near the Smith house and close to the enemys old picket-line, which their picket now occupy-as they did when we moved in October. The enemy is not outside of his main line of works. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18653.55 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Army Corps: The major-general commanding directs that you send your reserve division to this crossing on Hatchers Run. Let a staff officer precede it and report to General Warren. Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 425 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 425 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18654.20 jp. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: Can you not spare a brigade from some one near here to move to Greggs support~ ALEX. S. WEBB Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18655.45 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: Hold all you can spare in readiness to move to Warren promptly and rapidly. The nearer to this Crossing the better. Warren is now at iDabneys Mill, and the general fears they may put a superior force against him. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Staff. HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 18655.45 p. rn. General HUMPHREYS: Send some troops to the crossing of the Vaughan road over Hatchers Run immediately. By command of Major-General Meade: GEG. MEADE, Major and Aide-de-Camp. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Maj. Gen. ALEX. WEBB, February 6, 18656 p. m. Chief of Staff: Major-General Mott reports as follows: General McAllister has just returned to the line, having made a demonstration at the Watkins house and on the Duncan road. He reports the works of the enemy manned, as was reported by General De Trobriand this morning. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18656.05 p. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: I have ordered Mott to send General IDe Trobriands brigade immedi- ately to the crossing of the Vaughan road over Hatchers Run. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General Page 426 42G I~. AND SE. VA~W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18656.15 p. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: IDe Trobriand is moving to Vaughan road at crossing of Hatchers Run; he is 2,500 strong. Wests brigade will follow him it is about 1,000 strong. 1 will get some from Smyth. I have ordered Miles to send a brigade as quickly as possible. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 1865. General A. A. HUMPUREYS: Let General De Trobriand connect with Ayres at Armstrongs Mill. Let him communicate with Ayres at that point. All is doing well here. All apparently over. Look to Armstrongs Mill and keep your troops in readiness there. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Major-General WEBB: Your dispatch relative to De Trobriand connecting with Ayres received, and staff officer sent to De Trobriand accordingly. De Tro- briand must now be at crossing of Hatchers Run by Vaughan road. Colonel Michler has gone with my staff officer. He will see you. Per- haps it may be thought better for De Trobriand to go up on the opposite bank of Hatchers Run. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Major-Gen eral WEBB, Chief of Staff: Do you want Wests brigade? Upon receipt of your last order about I)e Trobriand, I halted West, and have directed him to be held in reserve, on McAllisters left, ready to be sent to Armstrongs Mill, or to you, as may be wanted. Shall I countermand the order sent to Miles, to send out a brigade to you? General Sa-tyth reports to rue that the right of Warrens troops are in their rifle-pits in connection with his ~t Armstrongs Mill. He has strengthened that point. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, tiJommanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Major-General HUMPHREYS: I have sent General IDe Trobriand back, and shall not want West. Warren checked the enemy on the picket-line this evening. His troop Page 427 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 427 are now being relieved in the breast-works across the run, and I under- stand his right connects with your left. You will not want Miles brigade, and can, for the present, look out for yonrself. GEG. G. MEADE, ]Ffajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. (Received 7 p. in.) Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: A staff officer from General Miles informs me that a large number of stragglers from the Fifth Corps are on their way to their camp. My provost guard and escort were unable to effect anything material in the way of stopping them. My mounted provost guard is in my camp look- ing after my stragglers. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following were the casualties in the Second Corps yes- terday: Second Division, 3 officers and 4 men killed, 8 officers and 25 men wounded, and 22 men missing; Third Division, 14 kiLled, 4 officers and 67 men wounded, none missing; no casualties in Ramseys brigade. The brigades of Motts division biiiried thirty-one of the enemys dead on his front- they also counted some twenty-two graves, some of which were large enough to contain five or six bodies each. This would make about 75 killed, and, allowing the usual proportion of wounded, would be between 350 amid 400 wounded. General Smnyth estimates the loss of the enemy in his front at not less than 200. The whole was proba- bly between 600 and 700 wounded. We took some 30 l)risoners in the operation - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- Genem al, Gorn manding. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. ARTY. BRIO~, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. The Tenth Massachusetts Battery and Smiths section of Battery K, Fourth U. S. Artillery, can unhitch and unharness to-night, but will be hitched, harnessed, and ready to move by 5 a. in. of February 7 (to-mor- row). The drivers will be by the side of their horses, and in caseof any firing on the line before the hour above mentioned the batteries will be harnessed amid hitched at once. By command of Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Hazard: U. D. EDDY, Lieutenant amid Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 428 428 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. IATIII. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISIoN, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18654.15 p. m. Major CARNUROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have abont 350 men on picket in front of the Ninth Corps troops. They have been there since night before last. Shall I relieve them, or will they be relieved by the troops of the Ninth Corps ~ Please answer. N. A. MILES, Brevet M~jor- General. HEADQuARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18654.40 p. m. Major-General MILES, First Division: Yon will relieve the 350 men on picket in front of the Ninth Army Corps. By order of Major-General llnmphreys: SEPT. CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Major CARNOROSS: Two columns of the enemy, abont two brigades, are reported to have noved this p. m. from their right to their left. N. A. MILES, Brevet Major- General. (Repeated by Hnmphreys to Meade 4.38 p. in.) HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18656.15 p. m. General MILES: Send a brigade to the Vanghan road at the crossing of Hatchers Rnn immediately. A. A. HUMPHItEYS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18657 p. rn. Major CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant-General: Your dispatch of 6.45 [6.15 received]. The Second Brigade, Colonel IDuryca, will be there as soon as possible. They leave at once. N. A. MILES, Brevet Major- General Page 429 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 429 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, February 6, 18657.37 p. m. Major-General MILES, First Division: The brigade of your division under Colonel Duryea will not be required. You will recall them. Your aide, who just left here, has been instructed to direct Colonel Duryca to return with his brigade if he should meet them. A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, ]tlajor- General. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. All the available troops of this division will be ready to move at a moments notice, with the exception of the garrisons of inclosed works and pickets. By order of Byevet Major-General Miles: RICHD. A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. GEORGE N. MACY, Commanding First Brigade: GENERAL: The brevet major-general commanding directs that the Twenty-sixth Michigan Volunteers and the detachment of 150 men of the Sixty-first New York Volunteers heretofore ordered for garrison duty at Fort Fisher be put at work on that fort immediately. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, RICHD. A. BROWN, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18653 p. m. General MOTT: GENERAL: The commanding general wishes you t~ cause the 150 men left on picket by your division to be relieved and join your com- mand. This guard duty can be performed by the convalescents. All men found fit for duty, especially those who have straggled back to their camps, should be sent to you from your camp. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, February 6, 18656 a. m. (Received 6.30 a. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: II send you telegram received last night and a copy of instructions General Meade left with me last night.* I was already acquainted with * For the instructions see Meade to Humplireys, 9 p. m. February 5, p. 396 Page 430 430 Th AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYIIL his views from conversations, and did not look at the instructions ulitil some hours after he left. The Sixth and Ninth Corps divisions that were ordered to me were put into positioii last night, and connect with Fort Cummings, with strong reserves. I have a telegraph to headquar- ters; wont you come over here and use it l I cannot well cross over to see you, lest the fight begiu again with my command, but I would like to see you before changing my headquarters to vicinity of Mott or Cummings house. You will probably find this the best place for your headquarters. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, 1I/Jiajor- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 5, 186511.30 p. m. Major-General HUMPHRBYS, Hatchers Run: iDo you rank General Warren ~ General Meade gave his instructions to you, thinking you were the senior officer. In case General Warren ranks you you will transfer the order received to him, and please notify him of the error. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of & aff. [Indorsenient.] Sent me by General Humphreys 6.30 a. m. [6th]. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Hatchers Run, February 6, 18656.30 a. m. General WEBB: General Gregg reached me at 4 a. m. it was so late I had to bring all my wagons with me, and his train could not go back with his cav- alry without munch delay, so I have brought it along. Griffin and Ayres are south of Elk Creek; Crawford is crossing over; Gregg is fol- lowing up. No signs of enemy so far. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. P. S.Gregg sends three squadrons back the route I caine to pick up the stragglers and take post at IRowanty Post-Office. G. K. W. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18659.30 a. m. Major-General WARREN: The commanding general directs me to say my dispatch of 7.50 a. m. was written and sent before General llumphreys telegram of 7.20, and was considered necessary owing to the misapprehension he labored under yesterday of your relative rank, rendering it, in his judgment Page 431 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 431 prudential to repeat the instructions given last night. General Hum- plireys dispatch of 7.20 is perfectly satisfactory, and thus mine of 7.50 proves to be unnecessary. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to Major-General Humphreys.) HATCHERS RUN, February 6, 18659.50 a. m. [General G. K. WARREN:] GENERAL: The operator at headquarters says the mesSage* you received about 8 a. in., to feel the enemy aiA attack him in front, if outside of his works, should be timed 7.50. General Webb has left for this place. OPERATOR. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Hatchers Run, February 6, 186510 a. m. General WEBB, Chief of Staff: I have just received your dispatch of (no hour iuentioiied) in which you allude to a dispatch of 7.50 a. m. from you and one of 7.20 from General Humphreys. 1 have not seen dispatches of such hours. I have one (no hour mentioned), received about 8 a. in., to feel the enemy and attack him in front of my lines if outside of his works. Do you mean that one is unnecessary l I have my troops posted as your dispatch brought me last night by Captain Emory directed. This virtually pats Crawford and Gregg under General Humphreys special control, and I have them now subject to his call if needed. 1 have also posted Ayres and Griffin as that dispatch directed. General Humphreys having informed me that he is about to feel the enemy and attack him, if practicable, I have kept my troops in hand as he may need. The enemy show only vedettes in my front south and west, and my advance must be back over the road I have been ordered up along, or west toward Dabney~s Mill. I am ready to do at once whatever is ordered, or to support General Humphreys if called on, or move in any other direction. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 186511.40 a. m. (Sent 12.05 p. m. Received 12.15 p. in.) Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN: The dispatch of 7.40 a. in. was, by the general commanding, directed to you and to General Humphreys. It was intended to instruct both you and General Humphreys to determine whether or not the enemy is ontside his works in your fronts, and to determine whether lie has only vedettes in your front or a force to be driven in. General Crawford is in See Webb to Humplireys, 7.50 a. in., p. 423 Page 432 432 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. position to support you or General Humplireys, whichever may need him first; and if you require General fl[umphrey]s reserve, and he does not, they will be suI)ject to your call. Please send to the telegraph office for the dispatch of 7.40, and you will see that it was pronounced unnec- e~sary, because a telegram from General Humphreys (time 7.20) was not received until 7.48, and this 7.20 dispatch stated that he was about to move for the purpose desired and without any further orders. it was supposed that you had received the orders given General llumphreys last night by the general commanding, which were left with him under the niisapprehension already referred to. The object is to determine what enemy is in your front and in front of General llumphrcys. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief oj Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Vaughan Road, February 6, 18654 p. m. Major-General WARREN: General Humphreys has been ordered to send a division of his com- mand to this point, a staff officer to precede it to report to you. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. FEBRUARY 6, 18654 p. m. General MEADE: General Crawford, with Braggs brigade, drove back the strong picket-line just this side of the road leading from Armstrongs Mill to Dabucys. They then advanced without munch opposition to near Dab- neys Mill, where the fighting is again heavy. Our prisoners are from Pegrams division. I have a brigade of cavalry and Winthrops brigade fighting down the Vaughan road, and report as much as they can do. I have sent Locke to see how things go, and call on General Humphreys for help if needed. I want to take Griffins division toward Dabneys Mill. Fighting thus in two directions takes me from personal inspec- tion of one of them. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Crossing of Vaughan Road, February 6, 18654.25 p. in. Major-General WARREN: Your dispatch is received. General Meade has apulied for a brigade from troops near here to support Gregg. The division is ordered to you. See dispatch of 4 p. mu. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet ilift.jor- General and Chief of Staff Page 433 CHAP. LVIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 433 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18655.30 p. m. Major-General WARREN: The major-general comma~nding will await here your report of your operations, and begs that you will have it here as soon as possible after dark. He will send you instructions as soon as he shall receive your report. ALEX. S. WEBB Brevet Major- General and Chief of ~taff. FEBRUARY 6, 18655.15 oclock. [General G. K. WARREN:] GENERAL: The brigade of General Gwyn has broken, and I am assembling it here. The Maryland brigade has broken badly. We are gathering all remnants. Winthrops brigade can be used. Baukhead is wounded in tbe hand. Major Sanders is commanding one brigade of Griffins and one from General Wheaton, Sixth Corps. Very respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, At Motts Headquarters, February 6, 18658.45 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: I have ordered out reconnaissances from Mott and Hartranft, and directed all my troops to be ready to attack, intending to attack if the enemy should be outside his works, as understood with you. Just as I reached here I received a telegram to that effect from General Meade. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General, Commanding. FEBRUARY 6, 18659 a. m. General IIUMPHREYS: I have just received your dispatch announcing that you were going to make a demonstration and attack the enemy at once outside of his works. I have directed General Crawford to be in instant readiness to support you. Griffin has established his line. The enemy has vedettes out on his front. Deserters say their main line extends south to Gravelly, about a mile west of Dabueys Mill. Gregg has just reported skirmish- ing with the enemy on the road. We have come up. I am prepar- ing to meet anything that may occur, and await further developments in this direction. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN. - Major- General. 28 R RVOL XLVI, PT I Page 434 434 N. AND ~E. YA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIIL HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, February 6, 186511 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding: De Trobriands reconnaissance found the enemys pickets or skir- mishers in an old line of works near the Watkins house (ours). He drove them out into their main line of works, in view of which he went. The Ninth Corps reconnaissance was in the same vicinity. The enemy is not oat of his main works. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, February 6, 18652 p. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: I can support you with Wheatons division, 4,500 men, ordered to mass at the Cummings house, and De Trobriands brigade, of Motts diVision, strengthened to 2,500 mew A. A. HUMPHREYS, - Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 36. 5 February 6, 1865. 1. Maj. Charles J. You Herrmann, additional aide-de-camp, having reported to the major-general commanding, pursuant to special orders from the War Department, is assigned to duty with the Second Army Corps, and will report accordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: GEO. D. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR, ~ HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 8. $ February 6, 18651.15 p. m. General Crawford will immediately move out on the Yanghan road to where it turns off to IDabneys Mill, and then follow up that road toward the mill, driving back the enemy and ascertaining the position of the enemys intrenched line said to be there. General Ayres will at once follow General Crawford with his division. General Gregg will send a force of cavalry to drive the enemy down the Vaughan road as far as Gravelly Run, and one also to cover the left ilank of the infantry under Generals Crawford aiid Ayres. He will also send a small force to watch the road leading down the east side of Rowanty Creek to - Perkins Bridge. Major Rosencrantz will go with this last to show the road. G. K. WARREN, ,Mic~jor-Generat Page 435 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 435 CIRCULAR, HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 9. February 6, 18657 jp. m. Division commanders will at once take measures to have their men supplied with ammunition, and as fast as the wagons are emptied they will be sent away to be replenished. Arms will be put in good order and everything made ready for a renewal of the attack to-morrow. should the same be ordered. The major-general commanding the army has expressed himself as satisfied with the operations of to-day. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 18659.35 a. in.. [General GRIFFIN:] GENERAL: The major-general commanding has directed General Gregg to relieve General Sickels brigade, which will return to you. You will hold Sickels brigade in reserve ready for- use. The major- general commanding is thinking of making a demonstration upon the enemy. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. FEBRUARY 6, 18654 p. in. General GRIFFIN: I want to take yonr right brigade from the line farther to the right. I wish you would have the commanding officer of that brigade I)lace himself there on the right ready to receive a call from me. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. FEBRUARY 6, 18659 a. in. General CRAWFORD: Keep your division in readiness for instant movement, as I or General ilumplireys may call upon you and want quii:k support. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. CIRCULAR, IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 12. February 6, 1865. The general commanding the division (lesires to express to the troops of his command his full satisfaction and admiration of their conduct during the day; that it meets with the approval of the general command- ing the army and the corps. To the troops of the First Brigade especial commendation is due. This brigade had the advance, and they gallantly maintained it to the last; and the conduct of the new troops, both in that brigade and the division generally, was beyond praise. That the division was compelled to fall back after gaining so much ground was no fault of theirs. With such soldiers there is nothing to be anticipated but the highest honors Page 436 436 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. Brigade commanders will send in to these headquarters to-night an approximate report of casualties in their commands. By command of Brevet Major-General Crawford: EDWARD C. BAIRD, Miajor and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CoRPS. February 6, 1865. Colonel RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has transpired on the lines of this corps during the past twenty-four hours. GEO. W. GETTY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 186510.15 a. m. Major-General GETTY, Commanding Sixth Corps: Colonel Brainerd, commanding Engineer Brigade, 1,~O0 strong, is ordered to report to you to strengthen your line. He will halt his com- mand here (Aikens honse), and will report to you. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, February 6, 1865. Col. WESLEY BRAIzNERD, Commanding Eniineer Brigade: COLONEL: By direction of the brevet major-general commanding you will please detail from your command, for picket duty on your front, 287 men, with the proper officers and non-commissioned officers, reliev- ing the officers and men belonging to the First Division of this corps, now on picket, at 9 a. in. to-morrow. You will also please relieve the First Division officers from your brigade. These officers and men will remain on duty for three days from to-morrow morning. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, February 6, 1865. Col. C. W. ECKMAN, Ninety-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, Corps Officer of the Day: COLONEL: The commanding officer if the Engineer Brigade (just ordered to report to this corps) has been directed to detail from his brigade 287 men, with the proper commissioned and uon-cominissiOne(l officers, for picket duty, and to relieve at 9 a. m. to-morrow the officers and men of the First Division now on picket, also to relieve the First Division officer of the day with a suitable officer from his command. The brevet major-general commanding desires you to see that the ol Page 437 CUAP. LVIII.] 437 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. detail is relieved at the hour above named and the new detail properly posted. You will please direct the officers and men of the First Divis- ion to rejoin their regiments as soon as relieved. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, [Col. GEORGE D. RUGGLES February 6, 1865. Assistctnt Adjutant- General, Hdqrs. Army of the Potomac:] COLONEL: In compliance with circular from headquarters Army of the Potomac, February 4, 1865, relative to the divisions and brigades in this corps now commanded by colonels, I have the honor to submit th~ following report: First Division: First Brigade, Bvt. Brig. Gen. William H. Penrose, colonel Fifteenth New Jersey Volunteers, absent on account of wounds, now commanded by Lient. Col. E. L. Campbell, Fifteenth New Jersey Volunteers; Second Brigade, Brig. Gen. R. S. Mackenzie; Third Brigade, Bvt. Brig. Gen. Joseph E. Hamblin, colonel Sixty-fifth New York Volunteers. Second Division: First Brigade. Col. J. M. Warner, Eleventh Vermont Volunteers; this officers name has been sent to the Senate for confirmation as brevet brigadier-general U. S. Volunteers; Second Brigade, Brig. Gen. L. A. Grant; Third , Col. T. W. Hyde, First Maine Veteran Volunteers. Third Division: First Brigade, Col. William S Truex Fourteenth New Jersey Volunteers; Second Brigade, Byt. Brig. Gen. J. W. Keifer colonel One hundred and tenth Ohio Volunteers, absent on surgeons certificate of disability, now commanded by Col. B. F. Smith, One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio Volunteers. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, February 6, 1865. The troops of this command will be under arms, and the batteries, ambulances, & c., harnessed and hitched in at 5 a. m. to-morrow, remain- ing so until 7.30 a. in. By command of Brevet Major-General Getty: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SIXTH CORPS, February 6, 18659 p. m. Major-General WARRENS CHIEF OF STAFF: GENERAL: I have the honor to report this division massed as you desired in the open field near the Cummings house. My headquarters are fifty paces from the line of troops and 200 yards west of Cummings house. Cavalry had already occupied the other field near the run. Am in good shape, ready and anxious to serve you. Your obedient servant, F. WHEATON, Brevet Major- GeneraL Page 438 438 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVIII. HEADQuARTERs ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18659.13 a. rn. Major-General PARKE: General Gregg went to iDinwiddie, and captured there 18 wagons and 50 prisoners, including 1 colonel. General Warren crossed as ordered and went to flargraves. General ilniuplireys went to the crossing ot Vaughan road and Armstrongs Mill. It was found difficult to corn- inunicate down the Vaughan road with Warren, and much delay was cansed by this. Hill massed in flout of Humphreys right, and at 4.15 p. m. attacked vigorously with ileths division in two lines, snpported by Gordons division, of Earlys corps, and Mahones division. Smyth and McAllister, of Humphreys corps, repulsed two attack~handsomely. This morning Warren has been moved to connect with ilumplireys to drive Hill back. Gregg has come 111) the Vaughan road with Warren. This force is ordered now to move on Hill and drive him into his works. Wheaton and Hartranft have joined llumphreys. At the time of the attack upon Humuplireys, Warren was at J. Ilargraves, on road to Din widdie, and Gregg was at Malones Crossing. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Stajf. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 18G5~9.4O a. m. Major-General PARKE: It has been necessary to take General Wheaton out of the Sixth Corps line and send him to General Humphreys. Where is the Eimgi- neet Brigade, and what is its strength ~ Your obedient servant, ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. (Received 9.50 a. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: The Engineer Brigade reported last night. It is posted about the center of my line between the Avery and Shands houses. Colonel Brainerd reports its strength at about 1,500 men. He reported from City Point there were about 1,900 men, but oi~ arriving here he informed me that he had to leave many guards at City Point, thns reducing his strength. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 6, 186510.15 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: Owing to the weakening of the line here by the withdrawal of General Wheaton, the major-general commanding deems it advisable to move u Page 439 CFW~. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 439 the Engineer Brigade to this pointthe Aiken house. Colonel Brainerd will halt his command here, and will then report to Major-General Getty at Globe Tavern. Please see that they are properly rationed and sup- plied with ammunition. have you any indications of their having weak- ened the force in your front l ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major.Genercd and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February G, 186510.50 a. m. Byt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB: There are no indications of the enemy weakening their force on our front. The signal officers report no change in the appearance of their line. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. (Received 12.10 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of StalT: A deserter from Twenty-sixth Virginia came in early this a. m. just after the moon went down. Does not think there has been any move- ment of troops o~i our front; knows that there was something going on on their right. JNO. G. PARKE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, February 6, 1865. (Received 4.30 p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding: GENERAL: A brigade of General Ayres division has relieved my dismounted men. About one-half the horses of my command are oii the north side of Hatchers Run. That the horses may be fed and watered and the men be able to get something to eat, I would, if prac- ticable, like to have the men with their horses. Can I send the half of my command which is dismounted to the north side of the river, or shall I bring the horses back ~ Very respectfully, D. MoM. GREGG, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQR s. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, ARMY OF THE JAMI~S, No. 19. ) In the Field, Va., February 6, 1865. In compliance with General Orders, No. 251, of August 31, 1864, from the War Department, and for the purpose of enabling genera Page 440 440 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. courts-martial to be convened by the commanding officer, the forces under command of Brig. Gen. Joseph B. Carr, U. S. Vo1unte~rs, are hereby designated as a separate brigade. By command of Major-General Ord: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, February 6, 1865. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The signal officer on Crows Nest Tower states that an orderly from the commander of the pickets reports at 7.30 p. m. that the rams are moving down the river. Very respectfully, & c., L. B. NORTON, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. E. 0. C. GIRD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 6, 1865. Major-General ORB Commanding Department of Virginia: It has been reported to me that there was a movement on the part of the rams. I have a staff officer out. I will inform you what he reports as soon as he returns. C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General. FEBRUARY 6, 186511.50 p. m. General GRANT, City Point: General Heckman reports as follows: My staff officer has returned. He reports one of the enemys woodeu patrol boats as having passed the grave-yard. He could learn nothing of thcir rams or any of their other boats. E. 0. C. GIRD, Major- General, Commauding. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, F 6, 18659.50 p. m. General HECKMAN, Commanding Twenty-fifth Corps: A report comes from Fort Brady that the orderly of the commander of the pickets on that front has come in with a statement that thc rains are moving down the river. Direct General Wild to send out scouts to his front to learn if there is any truth in the report, and send me word by courier. B. 0. C. GIRD, Major- General Volunteers, Commanding Page 441 CHAr. LVIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 441 HDQRS. DEPT. OF Viuc-INJA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, February 6, 18658.35 p. m. General FERRERO, Commanding Bermuda Front: Signal officer Crows Nest Tower states that an orderly from com- manding officer of the pickets reports the rams coming down the river. Investigate the truth of this statement and report to me. If there is any foundation for it get your batteries ready. Use your calcium light as soon as there is any use for it. The pickets on the river-bank shonld be strengthened and your reserves held in readiness. E. 0. C. ORD, Major- General Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIvIsioN, February 6, 18656.30 p. m. Brigadier-General TURNER Chief of staff: Colonel Spear has just returned froni a reconnaissance with 200 men. He went as far as the White Oak Swamp, on the other side of which was a picket-post of eight men, one of whom he captured. The picket- post belonged to the Seventh South Carolina Regiment, Garys brigade. No signs of the enemy on this side of the swamp, and no changes in the position or strength of Garys command could be ascertained. Colonel Spear went out by Riddells Shop, the same route pursued by Colonel Evans on the 31st ultimo. I have a number of individual sconts out; two came back, reporting that they could not get through White Oak Swamp on acconnt of the enemys pickets; they could give no informa- tion of the enemy; one represented himself as a deserter, and found a man who Wanted to show him the way to Long Bridge and help him on, saying seven deserters had crossed there the day before. Colonel Spear has four other prisoners, two of them soldiers and the others claiming to be citizens. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier and Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EASTERN VIRGINIA, Norfolk, Va., February 6, 1865. Brig. Gen. I. N. PALMER, 6ommanding District of North Carolina, Neu Berne, N. C.: GENERAL: When you were here I understood that you would imme- diately relieve the troops at Coirjock. General Ord also informed me that you were instructed to do so. I shonld be greatly obliged if you will do so immediately, as I mnst withdraw the troops now there, and it is indispensable that their places should be hUed by troops from your command, in order to protect the mail-boats to New Berne and Roanoke Island. I shall be obliged by a reply as early as convenient. With great respect, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, GEG. F. SHEPLEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 442 442 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII, ~WINCHESTER, February 6, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON: (Received 11.20 a. in.) Mr. Foote decides to go to New York. Has no further communica- tions to make. He will leave for that place at once, accompanied by one of my personal aides. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WINCHESTER, VA., February 6, 1865. (Received 1.50 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: A small party, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Whitaker, sent out by General Merritt to break up Harry Gilinors band, at a point south of Moorefield, was quite successful. Major Young, of my staff, and chief of scouts, captured Harry Gilmor and brought him in. P.11. SHERIDAN, ]Iiliajor- General, Commanding. WINCHESTER, VA., February 6, 1865. (Received 5.40 p. in.) Maj. 0-en. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I would respectfully ask permission to send Maj. Harry Gilmor to either Fort Lafayette or Fort Warren for confinement. He is an ener- getic, shrewd, and unscrupulous scoundrel and a dangerous man. He must be closely watched, or he will escape. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. (Copy to Commissary-General of Prisoners.) HEADQUARTERS PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, DEFENSES ~SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Alexandria, Va., February 6, 1865. (Received 7.30 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant. General: COLONEL: The patrols report all quiet to-day. It is reported by persons from Prince William County that time rebels are preparing to conscript every able-bodied man in Prince William and Fairfax Coun- ties that can be caught. They are said to have formed a conscript camp about five miles below Fredericksburg. H. H. WELLS, Colonel and Provost-Marshal- General, Defenses South of the Potomac Page 443 CHAP. LYiII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 443 HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISIoN, - MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, February 6, 1865. [Capt. A. F. HAYDEN, Assistant Adjutant- General :1 CAPTAIN: The party sent out in obedience to instructions of yester- day have returned to camp, with the exception of detached party sent to neighborhood of Smithfield. Lieutenant-Colonel McGee, who was in command, reports that in obedience to written and verbal instruc- tions he scoured the country last night between the Berryville pike and Kabletown, sending one column up the Berryville and Charlestown pike, another along the river from Castlewan~s Ferry to Kabletown, and a third column intermediate. Almost every house was visited, but with little success, as far as captures go. The colonel is fully satis- fied that there are but very few of the enemy anywhere in that scope of country. The testimony of the best-disposed citizens is that the enemy do not stay this side the Shenandoah in any niunber, but that they occasionally cross from the east side the river and return the same day or day following. A party of twenty or thereabouts was on this side two or three days ago and in the neighborhood of Kabletown. But two were seen (luring the march, one of whom was captured and is forwarded under guard. Lieutenant Gardner, of my staff, accompanied the party and reports that instructions were well executed. There is no stock of consequence in the country. There are three safeguards iiear Kabletown belonging to the Forty-ninth New York Infantry, one at the house of a Mr. Starkey, who have been there, it is said, over a year. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. H. CHAPMAN, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Winchester, February 6, 1865. Brigadier-General DAVIS, Summit Point: A force of cavalry will swing round toward Summit Point from IRipon to-day, if it has not already done so. A small force of cavalry will soon be sent to Summit Point, to assist in cleaning out guerrillas. P. H. SHERIDAX, Major- General. CUMBERLAND, MD., February 6, 1865. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.: The following has been received from Colonel Wilkinson: CLARKSBURG, February 5, 18658.30 p. m. The following just received from Buckhannon, viz : Two reliable Union men reached Colonel Westfalls this morning, eight miles up Bnckhannon River. They live four miles from Beverly, and say they saw six or eight rebels yesterday a. m. and heard there was a force of about 1,000 advancing. Citiz3ns in the neighborhood had been talking of it for some days previous. Westfall is reported perfectly reliable, and he is personally acquainted with the men. N. WILKINSON, Colonel Page 444 444 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LYlIL I have telegraphed the above for your information. I have instructed the post at Bulitown that I wish to hear of no surrender or surprise. That post is strong to hold out against any force that can be brought against it. GEORGE CROOK, Major- General. CHARLESTON, W. VA., F 6, 1865. Captain WHITLEY, Commanding, Loujp Creek, W. Va.: A good many of the rebels are now and will be near your lines home on furlough. Pick up all you can, but see that your scouts are very cautious or they may be picked up. JOHN II. OLEY, Colonel, Commanding. CLARKSBURG, February 6, 1865. Maj. CHARLES II. DAY, Bulltown: The following just received from Buckhannon: A man just from Centerville reports the rebels to the number of fifteen came into that place about 3 oclock this morning, and after robbing the stores left in the direction of Builtown; told-some citizens they came from Braxton County, and there were some 1,500 there. H. C. RIZER, Major. Have you any information of this? Please aiiswer. CHAS. F. A. YAHRLING, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. MIDDLE DEPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 23. 5 Baltimore, Md., February 6, 1865. It is hereby ordered that the troops in this department be drilled three times a (lay and prepared for active service in the field. During the cold weather overcoats will be worn on parade and while at drill. Commanding officers of districts, brigades, posts, regiments, and detachments will be held to a strict accountability for the faithful observance of this order. By command of Brevet Brigadier-General Morris, U. S. Army: SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST. New York (Jity, February 6, 1865. Major-General SANDFORD, 61omdg. First Division New York State National Guards: SIR: In view of the coming draft, which has been fixed for the 15th, I have the honor to request that you will advise these headquarters as to the probability of any resistance to the officers of the Provost-Mar- shal-Generals Department. If you anticipate resistance please stat Page 445 CHAP. LVIH.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 445 the character of the same and the locality or section where the author- ities may look for any disloyal combinations. Please inform me, also, whether you consider the State forces under your command as sufficient to preserve the peace nnder any circumstances likely to occnr. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. HALIFAX, February 6, 1865. (Received 7th.) Hon. W. II. SEWARD: Another raid into the United States from Canada is in contempla- tion, full particulars and instructions respecting which are given in several letters addressed to N. B. Davis, at Montreal and Toronto. M. M. JACKSON, U. k~. (Jon8ul. CITY POINT, VA., February 7, 186510 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, - Seer~tary of War: A. M. Laws is here with a steamer partially loaded with sugar and coffee, and a permit from the Treasury Department to go through into Virginia and North Carolina, and to bring out 10,000 bales of cotton. I have positively refused to adopt this mode of feeding the Southern army unless it is the direct order of the President. It is a humiliatiiig fact that speculators have represented the location of cotton at different points in the South, and obtained permits to bring it out, covering more than the entire amount of the staple in all the cotton-growing States. I take this to be so from what I know, and from statements contained in a letter recently received from General Canby. It is for our interest now to stop all supplies going into the South between Charleston and the James River. Cotton only comes out on private accounts, except in payment for absolute necessities for the support of the war. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, February 7, 18653 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The President directs that you will regard all trade permits, licenses, or privileges of every kind, by whomsoever signed and by whomso- ever held, as subject to your authority and approval as commander of the U. S. forces in the field, and such permits as you deem prqjudicial to the military service by feeding or supporting the rebel armies or per- sons in hostility to the Government you may disregard and annul, and if necessary to the public safety seize the property of the traders. In short, the President orders that you, as being responsible for military results, must be allowed to be judge and master on the subject of trade with the enemy. - EDWIN M. STANTON, & cretary of War Page 446 446 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. CITY POiNT. February 7, 1865. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The lijelimond Dispatch to-day says: We have no official intelligence of importance from South Carolina. The reports of the flanking of our forces at Branchyifle, and the capture of that place by Sher- man, are contradicted by official advices. The following documents were laid before Congress this forenoon: To the Senate and House of Representatives of the Confederate States of America: Having received written notification which satisfied me that the Presidcnt of the United States was disposed to confer informally with unofficial aueats that might be sent by me with a view to the restoration of peace, I requested the Hon. Alex. H. Stephens, the Hon. R. M. T. Hunter, and the Hon. John A. Campbell to proceed through our lines and to hold conference with Mr. Lincoln, or such persons as he might depute to represent him. I herewith submit for the information of Congress the report of the eminent citizens above named, showing that the enemy refused to enter into negotiations with the Confederate States, or any one of them separately, or to give to our people any other terms or guarantee than those which the conqueror may grant, or to permit ns to have peace on any other basis than our uncouditional submission to their rule, coupled with the acceptance of their recent legislation, including an amendment to the Constitution for the emancipation of all the negro slaves, and with the right on the part of the Federal Congress to legislate on the subject of the relations between the white and black population of each State. Such is, as I understand, the effect of the amendment to the Constitutiou which has been adopted by the Congress of the United States. JEFFERSON DAVIS. EXECUTIVE OFFIcE, Richmond, February 6, 1865. RICHMOND V A., February 5, 1865. To the President of the Confederate States: SIR: Under your letter of appointment of the 28th ultimo, we proceeded to seek an informal interview with Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, upon the subject mentioned in the letter. The conference was granted, and took place ou the 30th [3d] instant, ou board of a steamer anchored in Hampton Roads, where we met President Lincoln and the Hon. Mr. Seward, Secretary of State of the United States. It continued for several hours, and was both full and explicit. We learned from them that the message of President Lincoln to the Congress of the United States in Deceniber last explains clearly and distinctly his sentiments as to the terms, condi- tions, and method of proceeding by which peace can be secured to the people, and we were not informed that they would be modified or altered to obtain that end. We understood from him that no terms or propositions of any treaty or agreement looking to an ultimate settlement would be entertained or made by him with the authorities of the Confederate States, because that would be a recognition of their existence as a separate power, which under no circumstances would be done, and for like reasons that no such terms would be entertained by him from the States separately; that nO extended truce or armistice, as at present advised, would be granted or allowed, without a satisfactory assurance in advance of a complete restoration of the authority of the Constitution and laws of the United States over all places within the States of the Confederacy; that whatever consequences may follow froum the re-establish- ment of that authority must be accepted, but that individuals subject to pains and penalties under the laws of the United States might rely upon a very liberal use of the power confided to hium to remit these pains and penalties if peace be restored. During the conference the proposed amendments to the Constitution of the United States adopted by Congress on the 31st ultimo were brought to our notice. These amendments provide that neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except for crime, should exist within the United States, or any place within their jurisdiction, and that Congress should have power to enforce this amendment by lippropriate legislation. Of all the correspondence that preceded the conference herein mentioned, and lead- ing to the same, you have heretofore been informed. Very respectfully, your obedient servants, ALEX. H. STEPHENS. R. M. T. HUNTER. J. A. CAMPBELL. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- 6~eneral Page 447 CHAP LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 447 CITY POINT, VA., February 7, 1865Noon. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washingtot, P. 0.: I will be in Washington on Tlmrsday or Friday next. Please notify the Committee on the Conduct of the War. I will be obliged to you also if you will notify Mr. Wasliburne. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Copy furnished by Halleck to Hon. II. F. Wade and Hon. E. B, Washburne.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 186510.15 a. in. (Sent 10.50 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Warren reports at 7.30 a. m. everything quiet in his front. The character of the weather to-day, and the ignorance Jam under of the exact moral condition of Warrens corps, and his losses from stragglers, has restrained me from giving him positive orders to attack; but I have directed him to push out strong reconnaissances, and left to his judg- ment, based on the result of these reconnaissances and his knowledge of the state of his command, whether to attack or not. From all I can learn, unofficially, the disaster yesterday arose from the enemy sud- denly, toward the close of the day, withdrawing from the column on the Vaughan road and concentrating on the column at Dabneys Mill, which, when one part of the line was broken, the whole retired in dis- order. Warren had one whole division (Wheatons, Sixth Corps) not engaged. One brigade reached ~he mill just as the line had given way, but were unable, owing to the confusion and the dense woods, to do anything toward remedying the evil. In reference to holding to Hatchers Run, my idea was to hold it permanently by a strong line, which a small force could hold, if we moved farther to the left. If it is designed only to hold it temporarily and to abandon it, the object I had in view would not be attained. We have now a line of breast-works all the way, but my suggestion was to a permanent line, with redoubts. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., February 7, 186511.30 a. in. Major-General MEADE: The idea I intended to convey was that we should hold permanently out to Hatchers Run, fortifying as you think best, but destroying no works already made. Then when we came to make a general move against the enemy, we would hold our present lines, and abandon all the new works outside of them. You have been over the ground where our troops now are, and I have not. Take up such line for permanent occupation as you think will best secure our purposes. I thought likely we should hold from our present left to Armstrongs Mill. The cav- alry could then picket down Hatchers Run and cover our rear easier than at Present. In view of the bad weather the troops had better b Page 448 448 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rCHAP U WIll. got back to the position you intend them to occupy. It will r)e advis- able to send this order to Warreu at once, so as to prevent any further attack, unless promising great advantages to us. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, P 7, 18651.30 p. rn. Major-General MEADE: I will go to Washington to-morrow, or as soon as you notify me the troops now out are in the new position they are to occupy. I was sum - moned some two weeks since to appear before the Committee on the Conduct of the War. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18652.45 p. m. (Sent 4 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Cipher dispatch received. I will notify you as soon as the troops are in position, but I hardly think it will be by to-morrow, as I have some works to erect before I can numass the forces on the left. As soon as your dispatch of 11.30 was received I forwarded it to Warren, directing him to cease offensive operations unless some very important advantage was to be gained. At 12.20, be my dispatch had reached him, he reported Crawford having carried the enemys line of skirmish rifle-pits, and that a l)risOner reported them in line of battle near Dab- neys Mill, where they were yesterday. I expect soon to hear my dispatch has reached him. I was desirous, for the morale of the com- mand, that the offensive sbonld be taken. Warren has sent in the return of one division, and I hope from it that the losses yesterday will be much less than was at first supposed. Large numbers of stragglers have come in during the night and this morning. A deserter reports Rodes old division as having been moved from the north of the Appo- inattox to enemys right. Has Ord heard anything of this ~ GEG. G. MEADE, ]Iiliajor. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18655.15 p. in. (Sent 5.22 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have just received a dispatch from Major-General Warren, announc- ing he had recovered most of the ground he occupied yesterday, and had again drawn the fire of the artillery in the enemys works. As this accomplishes all I expected him to do I have directed him to withdraw to Hatchers Run, and shall hold the line from Fort Sampson to Ann- strongs Mill with the Second Corps, and post the Fifth Corps from the Vaughan road crossing back toward the Halifax road, prepared to meet a flank movement of the enemy or to support any point threatened in front. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General Page 449 CHAP LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 449 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18G56.55 p. m. Lieutenant-Colonel BOWERS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., General Grants Headquarters, City Point: Has there been any special assignment of the Eleventh U. S. Infantry from your headquarters, or is there any desire to have it specially assigned ~ GEG. D. RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, February 7, 1865. (Received 8.35 p. in.) Col. G. D. RUGGLES: The Eleventh U. S. Infantry was assigned to the Army of the Poto- mac by Special Orders, No. 25, of date 3d instant. General Grant desires the regiment to remain on duty at City Point to guard quarter- master and commissary property, it having been brought here for that purpose. Respectfully, T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 1865. Captain OHARE Acting Chief Commissary of Subsistence, Army of the Potomac: The commanding general directs that, unless otherwise ordered four days rations be sent us to-morrow for issue to the troops engaged in the actions of the past two days. \[ery respectfully, & c., GEO. D. RU~GGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 186512 m. Judge H. B. DAVIES, Tenth Street, near Fifth Avenue, Neu York: General Davies was wounded yesterday, not seriously, and will leave at once for New York. ALEX. S. WEBB, - Brevet Major- General and Chief of Sta./f SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 61. Washington, February 7, 1865. * * * * 21. Paragraph 28 of Special Orders, No. 55, February 3, 1865, from this o~ce,is herel)y so amended as to read: By direction of the Pres- 29 H HVOL XLVI~ PT I Page 450 450 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rOHAF. LVIII. ident, Maj. Charles A. Whitrie~, aide-de-camp, is assigned to duty with the Second Army Corps as assistant-adjutant-general, with the rank and pay of lieutenant-colonel, under act of July 17, 1862, to take effect January 31, 1865. * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEN1), Assistan! Adjutaut- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 1865. The following changes and dispositions of troops will be made as soon as practicable, Viz.: 1. The chief engineer will at once proceed to lay out and construct an intrenched line from Fort Sampson to Armstrongs Mill, placing works at the latter point and the crossing of the Vaughan road, so as to hold and command both these crossings. This line will be formed by selecting suitable positions for artillery, erecting batteries, and con- neciting the same with breast-works, making slashings, abatis, & c. Dams will be built on Hatchers Run, and this stream obstructed as much as possible. 2. When this line is constructed, or as soon as practicable, the iritreuched hues will be held as follows: The Ninth Corps, from the Appomattox to Fort Howard; the Sixth Corps, from Fort Howard to Fort Gregg, both inclusive; the Second Corps, from Fort Gregg to Armstrongs Mill. The Fifth Corps, holding the works at the crossing of the Vaughan road, will picket Hatchers Run above and below, and will be posted on a line from the crossing of the Vaughan road via Cummings and Wyatts houses, and so held as to meet any attack from the rear, or to support the Second or Sixth Corps, if attacked. This corps will also picket from Hatchers Run to the intersection ot the Church and Halifax roads. The cavalry division will be posted on the Jerusalem plank road, and l)icket from the left of the Fifth Dorps to the James. The cavalry (dismounted) will constitute a reserve, to Ineet any attack on the center. 3. The chief quartermaster will extend the military railroad to con- form to the new disposition of troops, and the chief engineer and corps commanders will construct the necessary corduroy roads to establish secure and prompt communications. By command of Major-General Meade: GEO. 1). RUGGLES, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 186511.05 a. rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS: General Gregg, with two brigades, has been ordered to watch the Halifax road and the old stageroad. He is ordered to report the position chosen to you and to hold himself in readiness to support you. One of his staff officers will be at General Warrens telegraph station. Gen- eral Warren unay attack this morning, and in case he shonld you. wil Page 451 CHAP. LYIILJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 451 hold all your available men ready to support or aid him, if called upon by him. A company of the Pennsylvania cavalry is now with General Smyth; will you order it back if not necessary ~ ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 186511.15 a. m. Major-General HUMPmuEYs: Since the line between your old headquarters and the run has been interrupted frequently, the general commanding directs that you put a guard on it. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18657 p. m. Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: General Warren threw forward Crawfords right to clear the enemy from the angle they held opposite Armstrongs Mill, and requested me to give him the benefit of artillery fire, which I did. I have not heard from him since, but take it for granted he effected what he wished, which was desirable for him and me. A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 186512.35 p. m. General WARREN: GENERAL: II am directed to support you with my available force, in the event of your requiring the same, and have ready in reserve for that purpose De Trobriands and Wests brigades, the first 2 and the second 1,700. ,300 strong I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, Major- General, Commanding. FEBRUARY 7 1865 12 Major-General HUMPHREYS .45 ~. in. Commanding Second Army Corps: GENERAL: I am directed by Major-General Warren to send you the inclosed copy of a dispatch from General Meade.* Crawford is push- ing the enemy out toward Dabucys Mill, but General Warren desires to know if yon cannot use some artillery to fire over in the direction of the enemy, more for the moral effect it will produce on our own troops than anything else. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. See WQbb to Wan-en, 10.40 a~ in., p. 455 Page 452 452 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LViII. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPS, February 7, 18G51.15 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Commanding Second Corps: GENERAL: I have just received your dispatch by Major Palmer. Ii have ordered two brigades of Greggs to Rowanty Post-Office by General Meades order. Having Wheatons division, of the Sixth Corps, I think I shall not need any support from you. My instructions leave me to attack so far as I think practicable, and if what I have will not succeed my defensive arrangements are ample. General Crawfords division has retaken the enemys advanced rifle-pits near Armstrongs Mill and is pnshimig the enemy toward Dabimeys Mill, where their line of battle is said to be. We have drawii the enemys artillery fire from the north side of Hatchers Run.. If any of your artillery can reilly to these guns it would be desirable, for moral effect if for no other, and if your artillery near Armstrongs Mill would fire to the west of the sound of musketry firing in front of General Crawford it might have the same advantage. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 186512.40 p. m. General MILES: GENERAL: The commanding general desires me to say that General Warren is now carrying on some operations that may necessitate him (General Humphreys) to take away one-half of General Hartranfts force. If such should be the case you will be notified, and it may be that the general will be obliged to call upou you for your available force. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, - Assistant Adjutant- Ceneral. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 186510.15 a. m. General SMYTH: You will strengthen the rifle-pits in the vicinity (f the R. Armstrong house. Captain Howell, of the engineers, will superintend the work. The parapet should be four feet wide on top, so as to resist artillery. By order of Major-General Humphrcys. SEPT. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18651.30 p. rn. Brigadier-General SMYTH: GENERAL: I have received the following dispatch.* You will please use your artillery as requested. Respectfully, A. A. HUMPHREYS, - Major-General. -~Seo Locke to Humphreys, 12.45 p. in., p. 451 Page 453 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 453 hEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18651.40 jp. m. General SMYTH: GENERAL: General Warren informs me by a second dispatch - that General Crawford, in advancing, has drawn the enemys artillery fire from the north side of Hatchers Hun, and requests that if I have any artillery that caii reply to these guns that it will do so, and that if I have any artillery near Armstrongs Mill requests that it may fire to the west of the sound of musketry firing in front of General Crawford, who is advancing to Dabucys Mill. Please do whatever you can to carry out the wishes of General Warren. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18658.15 a. m. General MoTT: GENERAL: The commanding general desires that you detail as large a force as possible to make slashings in your front as far out as possible. You will keep the meu continually employed, using all the axes in your possession. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CAIINCHOSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Generals Hartranft and Smyth.) HEADQUARTERS THIRD Divfsiox, SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. G. W. WEST, Commanding Second Brigade: GENERAL: The brevet major-general commanding desires me to inform you that the pickets of your command will be relieved by a detail froiu General McAllisters command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. H. DIZIIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DivIsIoN SECOND ARMY CORPS, February 7, 1865. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. MCALLISTER, Commanding Third Brigade: GENERAL: The brevet mnajor-genera~ commanding directs that you relieve the pickets of Brevet Brigadier-General West by a detail from your command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. H. DRIVER, Assistant A djutant- General. See 1.15 p. in., j). 452 Page 454 454 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LVITL HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS~ February 7, 18658.15 a. m. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staff: I have to report everything very quiet during the night and up to this hour this morning. The picket line reports the enemy moving some troops along the advanced rule-pits we drove him out of yester- day, which is either to relieve the troops put in there by him last night or to re-enforce them. There is also some report of the enemy felling wood in their front during the night. Respectfully, G. K. WARI~EN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18658.15 a. m. Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN: The general commanding desires to know the condition of your com- mand, and to have as early as possible some estimate of the casualties of yesterday. He directs that you put oat your skirmishers to ascer- tain if the enemy is still in your front, and that you exercise your judgment, dependent upon the circumstances developed, as to attack- ing. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18659.20 a. m. Major-General WARREN: In any operations or combinaLions you may make the major-general commanding desires that you will hold in remembrance the fact that he is desirous of withdrawing General Greggs cavalry as soon as it will be proper to do so. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HATCHERS RUN, February 7, 18659.40 a. m. General WEBB, Chief of Statf: GENERAL: I am getting in positive information and endeavoring to get the parts of divisions together. The enemy made but a slight dem- onstration up the Vaughan, though it ~vas at first reported as quite alarming. We have picked up some tuen from Mahones division that caine out to gather up arms. I believe the enemy will make no staimd this side of Dabneys Mill, and I believe I can drive him back that far, if at all, without the aid of more than one of Greggs brigades, and you can call back tf~e other two at once if you think it best. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General Page 455 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE ETC.UNION. 455 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 186510.40 a. m. (Received 12.30 p. in.) Major-General WARREN: Since your dispatch of 9.40 the general commanding directs that you order General Gregg to take two of his brigades to Rowauty Post- Office, with their horses, & c., and to prepare them there with supplies, to be ready to move either upon information received of the enemys cavalry or upon requisition being made upon him for support from yourself or General Humphreys. A staff officer from General Gregg will remain at your telegraph station to carry to him the informatidn or requisition. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff [Indorsement.] Received 12.30 p. in., and copy furnished General Gregg, with direc- tions to carry out the instructions contained therein. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTO1 AC, February 7, 186511.45 a. rn. (Received 12.30 p. in.) Major-General WARREN: In view of the weather and of instructions from the lieutenant-general commanding, it is not advisable to make any attack to-day, unless you are satisfied that thereby great advantages will be gained. It is intended to withdraw you to-night or to-morrow this side of Hatchers Run, and to permanently occupy the line to Armstrongs Mill. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 186512.20 p. rn. Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: The following are the casualties up to this hour: Ayres (liviSion, 18 killed, 188 wounded, 123 missing; Wheatons brigade, Sixth Army Corps, 17 wounded, 40 mis sing. Reports of the other divisions will be telegraphed as soon as received, and a tabular statement of casualties and field report of strength present will be forwarded at the earliest moment practicable. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 186512.20 p. m. Geueral WEBB: General Crawford has again carried the enemys rifle-pits near Arm- strongs Mill and is pushing his skirmish line out toward Dabney~ Mill. A prisoner reports the enemys line of battle to be near Dab- neys Mill, the place to which we (Irove them yesterday. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General Page 456 456 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. IVIII. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18651.15 p. m. Byt. Maj. Gen. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: We have drawn the enemys artillery fire from the north side of Hatchers Run, and the shots come over beyond the breast- works, but doing no damage. General Griffin reports his loss as 22 killed, 153 wounded, 26{ missing; total, 439. G. K. WARREN, Major- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18653.40 p. m. (Received 4.30 p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: GENERAL: The following dispatch was sent to you at 12 m. Owing to a break in the wire it has been impossible to hear that you received it.* ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet ]JiThjor- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FiFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18654.30 p. rn. Brevet Major-General WEBB, Chief of Staf: I have just received your dispatch by Captain Emfry; I had already received the same by teleg~raph. If I have to withdraw I would prefer to do so in the morning instead of at night. We have regained most of the ground we held yesterday, and drawn the artillery fire from the enemys works, and we can hold the south side of ~ Run toward Dabneys Mill so long as may be required. Respectfully, (5. K. WARREN, Major- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18655.15 p. m. Major-General WARREN: The major-general commanding has received your dispatch. He is pleased to hear of your success to-day, and of your comparatively small losses yesterday. You will be withdrawn, but not at night. Your new position will be to hold the tete-de-pont, to picket from Armstrongs down Hatchers Run, and to hold your corps at points convenient to support a picket-line from Hatchers Run to junction of Church and Halifax roads, and to support the Second and Sixth Corps, if needed. You will receive the order soon. It is desirable to relieve Wheaton soon, since he will take Hartranfts place, and Hartranft will be sent See Webb to Warren, 11.45 a. in., p. 455 Page 457 CHAP. LVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 457 back to Ninth Corps. The cavalry will be in its old position, and will then picket from Halifax road to James River. From this you will see that your corps will not return to old camps. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18656.40 p. m. Major-General WARREN: Heavy firing was heard from these headquarters thirty minutes since. Can you tell me what it was ~ ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major- General and Chief of ~Staff. (Same to Major-General Humphreys.) HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 1865. (Received 7.4() p. in.) General WEBB, Chief of Staff: The firing you heard about 6 p. in., if in this direction, was an attack of General Crawfords 111)011 the enemy, which drew their artillery tire. I have had no rej)ort from him since it began; it now has ceased. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18656.45 p. m. General WEBB: I have received your dispatch requirin~ us to occupy a new position and forsake our old quarters. We will do it cheerfully, and, for my part, I am glad that, when any extension of our line is to be made, we have the privilege of doing it. All is satisfactory with us to-day. Wheatons division can be recalled at any time. Respectfully, G. K. WARRE~ Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18657 p. m. General WEBB, Chief of Staff: General Wheatons division can be withdrawn at any time you may desire. I do not need it to hold my position. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding Page 458 458 N. AND SE. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18657.30 p. m. General WEBB, Chief of Staff: We have ascertained from prisoners that we fought four divisions of the rebel army yesterday, viz: Maliones, Heths, Pegrams, and Gor- dons. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18657.35 p. m. Maj. Gen. G. K. WARREN: Can you withdraw and relieve the remaining brigade of Greggs cav- alry to-morrow morning and let it report to General Gregg ~ ALEX. S. WEBB, Brevet Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18657 .10 p. m. General WEBB, Chief of Staff: Colonel Ker wins brigade, of General Greggs division, can be relieved to-morrow morning. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commitnding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, February 7, 18658.05 p. m. Maj. den. G. K. WARREN: Since receiving your dispatches the maj or-general commanding directs that you send the brigade of cavalry to rejoin General C regg to-morrow, and General Wheatons diyision of iiifantry to rejoin Gen- eral Getty. This will enable him to extend the Ninth Corps and the Sixth Corps, and to make the new disposition of the troops. ALEX. S. WEBB, Brecet Major- General and Chief of Stajj CIRCULAR, ~ HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 10. 5 February 7, 186510 a. m. I. General Crawford will move with his division along the breast- works to their right, and from there move out to the front and take possession of the enemys advanced rifle-pits, if practicable. Having done this he will push a skirmish line out toward Dabneys Mill as far as it can go Page 459 CHAP. LYTIT.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 41~i9 II. General Griffin as soon as General Sickels brigade reports to him will put it in the breast-works in place of the one of his iiow there, and send out the brigade so relieved to relieve General Winthrops brigade. III. General Ayres will send an officer to General Griffins head- quarters to show the brigade of General Griffins where to relieve Gen- eral Winthrops, and General Winthrops brigade will be camped in reserve behind the breast-works. IV. General Gregg will make dispositions to hold the Vaughan road with one brigade, and hold his two other brigades ready to be sent back to General Meade, it he calls for them. V. General Wheaton will have his division ready to move at short notice. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18658.45 p. m. Colonel Kerwin, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade, will be relieved to-morrow morning at 7 a. in. by a brigade from General Ayres division. Upon being relieved by General Ayres Colonel Kerwin will proceed to rejoin General Greggs division at liowanty Post-Office, on the Halifax road. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, February 7, 18659.35 a. m. General GRIFFIN: The major- general commanding has directed General Gregg to relieve General Sickels brigade, which will return to you. You will hold Sickels brigade in reserve ready for use. The major-general com- manding is thinking of making a dcinonsti~ation upon the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Brevet Major-General GRIFFIN, February 7, 186511 p. m. Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding has ordered General Crawford to withdraw his troops to-night behind your line. Please notify your pickets of this. General Crawford has also been directed to notify them. 1 am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Brevet Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 460 4C0 N. AND S1~, VA., W. VA., MD., ANI) PA. [CHAP. LVIII. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DI