infantry from General McCook's corps, to follow the route lately taken by General Crook, till it reaches the Chattanooga road, where it will reconnoiter that road to the southern spur of Missionary Ridge to ascertain whether the enemy is retreating in that direction. Send another brigade, also to be supported by a brigade of infantry, to enter the Broomtown Valley and push from Alpine as far toward Summerville as may be safe and necessary. The enemy is believed to be in full retreat, and it is most important to now where he is going and by what routes. You have not a moment to lose in starting these expeditions.

Hold your whole command in readiness for and advance. The reconnaissance must be made thoroughly and with vigor.

Very respectfully,your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD,

Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff.

ALLEN'S HOUSE, 4 Miles from Valley Head, Ala., September 8, 1863.

Colonel A. P. CAMPBELL,

Commanding First Brigade:

The command will be held in readiness to march at any moment, as previously order.

* * * * *

By command of Colonel E. M. McCook:

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

(Same to Colonel D. M. Ray, commanding Second Brigade, and Colonel L. D. Watkins, commanding Third Brigade.)

ALLEN'S HOUSE, 4 Miles from Valley Head, Ala., September 8, 1863.

Colonel A. P. CAMPBELL,

Commanding First Brigade:

The Command will move to-morrow morning promptly at 4 o'clock. Reveille at, 2.30; boots and saddles, 3.30; to horse immediately after. Order of march:Third Brigade, First Brigade, Second Brigade.

* * * * *

E. M. McCOOK,

Colonel, Commanding.

(Same to Colonel D. M. Ray, commanding Second Brigade, and Colonel L. D. Watkins, commanding Third Brigade.)

HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Winston's, Ala., September 8, 1863.

Brigadier-General CROOK,

Commanding Second Cavalry Division:

GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you send your two pieces of artillery and ambulances on top of the mountain via