[CHAP. XLII.

STEVENSON, October 14, 1863-7.30 a.m.

Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

The following dispatch from General Granger, October 13, just received:

Colonel Mizner received information from Columbia, very reliable, that Wheeler's forces had been dispersed, and were flying in a state of confusion toward Tennessee River.

HOOKER,

Major-General.

STEVENSON, October 14, 1863-2 p.m.

Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD:

The accompanying message is sent for the information of the major-general commanding:

Two deserters just in report that on the way from the army in your front they learned that 15,000 conscripts had arrive at Rome. They crossed the river near Bellefonte. State that the river is picketed with rebel cavalry. They belong to Cleburne's division, and were in the last fight. They represent that two-thirds of their men would desert if they had an opportunity.

HOOKER,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Chattanooga, October 14, 1863.

Major-General HOOKER,

Stevenson:

Mitchell dispatched from New Market, via Decherd, he had come across Roddey and pursued him to Buckhorn. Don't know where that is. Said nothing of other cavalry.

W. S. ROSECRANS,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Chattanooga, October 14, 1863.

Major-General HOOKER,

Stevenson:

I don't understand Mitchell's dispatch. What has become of Wheeler's cavalry? Why Roddey is retreating toward our lines i can't understand. Measures must be taken to meet them with infantry if they move toward the Cumberland. Please let me hear from you, and aid Mitchell if you can.

W. S. ROSECRANS,

Major-General.

STEVENSON, October 14, 1863-8 p.m.

Lieutenant Colonel C. GODDARD:

Dispatch of 7.30 p.m. received. Mitchell's dispatch referred to has not been received here. Where is Mitchell, that I can communicate with him?

JOSEPH HOOKER,

Major-General, Commanding.