SUGAR LOAF, January 16, 1865 - 4 p. m.

Brigadier-General HEBERT,

Smithville:

As soon as you have accomplished all that can be done in the evacuation of Holmes, fall back on Fort Anderson with your whole force and take command there. Destroy everything valuable to the enemy which you cannot remove. Acknowledge receipt.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SUGAR LOAF, January 16, 1865 - 4 a. m.

Brigadier-General HEBERT:

Smithville:

General Bragg directs me to say you can leave one small steamer to bring out garrison of Holmes, and must send others up immediately. The steamer left is to be destroyed of she cannot the brought off; must not fall in enemy's hands.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

GANDER HALL, January 16, 1865 - 11.30 a. m.

Brigadier-General HEBERT,

Smithville:

There are no indications of any movement by enemy. I hope, therefore, you will be able to save your steamers to-night. If possible take to Fort Anderson some of your heavy guns. Do not destroy the others, as it is possible we may get them by land. Use every effort to do this. Answer.

BRAXTON BRAGG.

GANDER HALL, January 16, 1865 - 1 p. m.

Brigadier-General HEBERT,

Smithville:

Telegram 12.10 received. General Bragg desires you to hold as you are still enemy makes demonstration, meanwhile endeavoring to save heavy guns and ammunition, which are needed at Fort Anderson.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

GANDER HALL, January 16, 1865 - 3.30 p. m.

Brigadier-General HEBERT,

Smithville:

General HOKE will send you from Wilmington this evening from ten to twenty wagons. With these bring off all entrenching tools and other valuable property.

BY order, &c.:

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.