WASHINGTON, D. C., October 7, 1863-1.30 p.m.

Colonel ANSON STAGER,

New York:

Apply for military escort to General Sherman or General Hurlbut,

at Memphis.

H. W. HALLECK,

General-in-Chief.

WASHINGTON, October 7, 1863.-3.50 p.m.

Major-General SHERMAN,

Memphis, Tenn.:

The President has read your letter,* and desires to publish it, but without using your name. Can I give him your permission? I sympathize with your affliction.

H. W. HALLECK,

General-in-Chief.

CORINTH, MISS.,

October 7, 1863.

Major General W. T. SHERMAN,

Memphis:

The Third Michigan Cavalry this morning reported a fight near Tupelo. Report having defeated the rear guard of the enemy, and all have gone in the direction of Okolona under Ferguson. It is reported from Booneville that Heath's cavalry were having a fight near Guntown. General J. E. Smith's division is at Glendale to-night. I have ordered him to occupy Burnsville with Matthies' brigade to-morrow morning and to push forward the repairs of the railroad as far as Bear Creek and protect the workmen. I have also given him instructions to ascertain about the fords at Eastport and beyond. Osterhaus' men have an excellent camp, and are in good condition. Forage is very short here, and we are losing many valuable horses for want of hay. When will my old division come up?

FRANK P. BLAIR, JR.,

Major-General.

CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 2nd DIV., 16TH ARMY CORPS,

La Grange, Tenn., October 7, 1863.

I. The troops of this command will sleep on their arms. In case of any firing on the picket lines will fall in immediately. The troops will be in line at daylight.

II. The batteries will be prepared to hitch up during the night at a moment's notice, and at daylight be ready to move if necessary.

By order of E. W. Rice, colonel commanding:

D. T. BOWLER,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

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*See Part III, p. 694.

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