HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, September 25, 1863-10,45 a.m.

Brigadier General J. B. STEEDMAN:

The general commanding directs you to cross the river with such of your force as is now on this side, and assume command of all the forces on that side. Collect stragglers and guard the line of the river from the mouth of Big Chickamauga Creek to Williams' Island.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. GODDARD,

Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, September 25, 1863.

Brigadier-General MITCHELL,

Commanding Cavalry;

The general commanding wishes a special report on the subject of stragglers. He wishes them sent in squads under guard to their respective division headquarters. Report how many you now have, and still continue to collect them. You had better keep your headquarters on that side of river till the position of your command is more definitely determined.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. S. THOMS,

Captain and Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, September 25, 1863-3.15 p.m.

Brigadier-General MITCHELL,
Commanding Cavalry:

The general commanding directs you to send General Crook's division of cavalry to the vicinity of Bridgeport to protect the crossing of the river, and our line of railroad communication. Send an advance brigade with all dispatch.

A heavy force of rebel cavalry is reported moving in that direction on the south side of the river. General Crook will post his command where he deems it best to secure the above objects.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD,

Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, September 25, 1863-4.50 p.m.

Brigadier-General MITCHELL:

If you can spare Colonel McCook's command more readily for the within expedition, do so.

J. A. GARFIELD,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Island Ferry, September 25, 1863.

Brigadier-General GARFIELD,

Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that I have made the following dispositions of my troops since receiving your communica-