per. Also, that you direct Brigadier-General Crook to picket General Lytle's front at Bridgeport and the river as far down as Cedar Bluffs Ford, reporting the disposition he makes to General Lytle.

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

C. GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

DECHERD, August 23, 1863-6 p. m.

Colonel GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

The rebels made a dash into Winchester last night and captured 3 of our men. I cannot protect the Government supplies at this post with the force here, which is so small.

W. H. JOHNSON,

Captain and Assistant Quartermaster.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Stevenson, August 23, 1863.

Major General D. S. STANLEY,

Chief of Cavalry:

GENERAL: A dispatch from Captain Johnson, assistant quartermaster, at Decherd, says that rebels (probably a few querrillas) were in Winchester yesterday and captured 3 of our men.

The general desires you to see that the cavalry battalion ordered to Cowan goes without delay.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

C. GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY,
Stevenson, August 23, 1863.

Colonel C. GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

The general commanding directs me to say to you that he ordered the battalion stationed at Cowan to Winchester this morning.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. H. SINCLAIR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

LARKINSVILLE, ALA,

August 23. 1863.

Major General D. S. STANLEY,

Stevenson, Ala.:

Watkins telegraphs that it is currently reported in Huntsville that Chattanooga is to be evacuated.

EDWARD M. McCOOK,

Colonel, Commanding