a movement of the enemy to cut off the command from the mountains, I thought it best t to fall back to the pass in the mountain.

One of the enemy is known to be badly wounded. None of my men were hurt.

Taking possession of the mountain pass, I remained there some time expecting the enemy would follow, but saw nothing further of them.

I found the roads in good condition. I found a sufficient quantity of water along the way to supply the troops passing over the mountain.

But little information could be obtained from persons along the rout. From the clothing found I learned the troops in Trenton belonged to the Fourth Alabama Cavalry. I also learned that a force of our cavalry occupied Trenton for a short time yesterday. They returned to the valley by some other road, and I did not see them.

My detachment arrived safely in camp at this place at 6 p.m. this evening.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. L. ABERNATHY,

Lieutenant-Colonel Eighth Kansas.

STEVENSON, ALA.,

August 31, 1863.

Brigadier-General LYTLE,

Bridgeport:

The general commanding wishes to know how the bridge is progressing.

R. S. THOMS,

Aide-de-Camp.

BRIDGEPORT,

August 31, 1863-3.30 p.m.

Captain R. S. THOMS,

Aide-de-Camp:

Colonel Hunton reports the bents up one-third of the distance across, the stringers and planks laying as fast as possible. The first bent just been set up on the island side.

W. H. LYTLE,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
August 31, 1863-1.30 p.m

Brigadier-General LYTLE,

Bridgeport:

Train loaded with pontoons, which was to be unloaded at 11 p.m. last night and to return here immediately, has not yet returned.