CHARLESTON, W. VA., April 5, 1865.

Captain GEORGE W. KARNES,

Winfield:

You will be prepared to move at a moment's notice. Telegraph at once how many men, mounted and equipped, you can move. Every man that can go must. Richmond has gone up sure.

JOHN H. OLEY,

Colonel, Commanding.

HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,
Baltimore, April 5, 1865. (Received 11.47 p.m.)

Brigadier General E. D. TOWNSEND,

Assistant Adjutant-General, War Department:

The steamer Harriet De Ford was captured by rebels last night at Fair Haven, about thirty miles below Annapolis, and Commodore Dornin reports that another steamer was captured in the Patuxent at the same time. The Navy have no steamers here to send in pursuit. Have telegraphed to Fortress Monroe, as it is reported that the two steamers went down the bay. If the Navy Department is informed perhaps Commander Parker can overtake them.

W. W. MORRIS,

Brevet Brigadier-General.

BALTIMORE, MD., April 5, 1865.

Captain VAUGHAN or

Lieutenant SMYTHE:

You are hereby directed to turn over your command to the officer in charge of the steamer with troops on board from Fort McHenry. You will then accompany the united command and assist the officer in charge, giving him all the information about the bay and inlets you can, and do your utmost to overtake and recapture the captured steamers. It is rumored that Jeff. Davis is on board of the Harriet De Ford. All the rebels must be captured or otherwise disposed of.

By command of Brevet Brigadier-General Morris:

SAML. B. LAWRENCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

BALTIMORE, April 5, 1865.

Brigadier General J. R. KENLY,

Wilmington, Del.:

Two steamers were captured last night by guerrillas in the vicinity of the Patuxent, Calvert County. They put out into the bay with large party of men on board. They may intend to land on the Eastern Shore. It may be some of the Davis party escaping. Instruct your cavalry to be vigilant.

By order;

SAML. B. LAWRENCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.