LEXINGTON, KY., October 18, 1864

(Received 4 p. m.)

Major General H. W. HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

When General Paine was relieved General Meredith assumed command by virtue of his rank. I had not at that time, nor have I now, any general officer to assign to his place. If a change is deemed necessary I would like to have General John McArthur.

S. G. BURBRIDGE,

Brevet Major-General.

INDIANAPOLIS, IND., October 18, 1864.

Brevet Major-General BURBRIDGE,

Lexington:

I am informed that Confederate forces, 1,000 strong, under Colonel Hines, are at Brandenburg, Ky., and have captured a steamer; also, that 500 are at Rock Spring, eight miles back of Henderson, Ky. Scattered forces re daily concentrating at these points. The gun- boats are on that portion of the river.

ALVIN P. HOVEY,

Brevet Major-General.

LEXINGTON, October 18, 1864.

COMMANDER U. S. FORCES,

Cynthiana, Ky.:

Jessee is reported moving on Paris or Cynthiana. If attacked defend yourself; you will be abundantly re-enforced.

S. G. BURBRIDGE,

Brevet Major-General.

CYNTHIANA, KY., October 18, 1864.

Major General S. G. BURBRIDGE,

Lexington, Ky.:

After Jessee fired on passenger train at Lair's Station he took an eastward course. I am going to hold the town. Send your re- enforcement on.

H. HAGERTY,

Captain Company C, FIFTY-THIRD Kentucky, Commanding.

LEXINGTON, October 18, 1864.

Lieutenant-General SPALDING,

Commanding troops to arrive to-night, Paris, Ky.:

Jessee fired upon the train at Lair's Station, nine miles from Paris, at 6 o'clock. Push after him night and day. Press horses wherever needed, and catch him if possible. The Twentieth Kentucky has the same orders and will press on from Georgetown. Join forces if you can, but do not delay on that account.

N. C. McLEAN,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.