WILMINGTON, January 20, 1865-11.20 a. m.

General R. E. LEE,

Petersburg:

A number of gun-boasts are in the river from Fort Fisher down. They have made no attempt to ascend. A have infantry demonstration was made on our lines at Sugar Loaf yesterday, but was easily repulsed.

BRAXTON BRAGG.

GASTON, January 20, 1865.

General BRAGG:

Is communication open through Wilmington to Columbia, S. C.? Can I pass 2,000 troops through to day and to-morrow? Please answer immediately to Gaston, N. C.

M. C. BUTLER,

Major-General, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

Colonel FREMONT:

Please give me to information to answer this.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

JANUARY 20, 1865.

Yes. I learn the route is open to Columbia via Kingsville.

S. L. FREMONT,

Superintendent Wilmington and Weldon Railroad.

WILMINGTON, January 20, 1865.

Major-General BUTLER,

Gaston, N. C.:

The railroad is open by this place to Columbia.

BRAXTON BRAGG.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Wilmington, January 20, 1865.

Captain WI. H. JAMES,
Chief Engineer:

CAPTAIN: The commanding general desires you will immediately cause a reconnaissance to be made of the roads leading from here over the Northeast Cape Fear and of the means of crossing that river. He wishes particularly to be informed without delay as to the depth of water boast can carry as far up as the railroad bridge.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.