HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FOURTH DIV., 23rd ARMY CORPS,
Athens, Tenn., September 21, 1863.

COMMANDING OFFICER,

Chattanooga:

I am at Athens, Tenn., with three regiments of men (mounted) and one battery. These are the nearest forces to Chattanooga. Telegraph communication is open from here to Knoxville and east as far as the line of Virginia. All couriers you send here should cross the river at Chattanooga and come by way of Cotton Port. I would be glad to hear the full facts in regard to the heavy firing between Cleveland and Chattanooga on Saturday. All is conjecture here. No news of importance here. I sent a courier yesterday to you with dispatches from General Burnside, and hope you have received them ere this.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. K. BYRD,

Colonel, Commanding.

HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FOURTH DIV., 14TH ARMY CORPS,
Friar's Island, September 21, 1863-7 p.m.

Colonel GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the Cumberland:

Two scouts of Ninety-second Illinois, who were up near Harrison this evening, state that a report is current there that Pegram crossed the Tennessee at Thayer's Ford this morning. I have the Second Michigan opposite Harrison to-night, and have sent a scouting party to learn the facts. I will report all I learn.

Your obedient servant,

J. T. WILDER,

Colonel, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY,
Rock Creek, September 21, 1863- 7.30 p.m.

Colonel McCOOK:

COLONEL: The general says keep out strong picket and camp guards, and have every man in line at 3 o'clock in the morning. Have as little fire as possible, and none on the picket line. Keep us advised of any change. Communicate often.

Respectfully, yours,

WM. H. SINCLAIR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY,
Rock Creek Ford, September 21, 1863-8 p.m.

General GARFIELD:

GENERAL: I have been in line of battle all day, but have nothing but skirmishing along my front. I inclose reports of this evening from Colonel McCook and General Crook. General Spears' aide has