HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, October 17, 1863-4.05 p.m.

ColonelR. F. SMITH,
Anderson's Cross-Roads:

The general commanding has received your communication of the 16th. He directs to have Hatfield's bridge repaired at once, so that it can be used by trains if necessary. He directs you to station officers at the proper places to direct wagon trains as you suggest; empty ones on one side and loaded ones on the other of the river. He also directs that you have the roads blazed and

guide-boards put up at all necessary points. Hereafter place the time upon all dispatches.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

C. GODDARD,

Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, October 17, 1863.

Brigadier-General MORGAN,
Battle Creek:

Colonel Smith is ordered from Anderson to Dallas. You will prepare to replace him with your command. General Howard will relieve you. Move as soon as Howard sends enough force to relieve you on bridge and guards.

By order of Major-General Rosecrans:

C. GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, October 17, 1863.

Colonel R. F. SMITH:

The general commanding directs you to move at once with all your force, except one regiment, to the vicinity of Harrison's Landing or Dallas, and confer with the nearest commanding officer, and take post so as best prevent a crossing by the enemy. Take with you a full supply of ammunition and all the provisions you can.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. GODDARD,

Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Anderson's Cross-Roads, October 17, 1863-9 p.m.

Lieutenant ColonelC. GODDARD,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. of the Cumberland:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report all quiet here. The road over the mountain has been nearly impassable to-day, the mud being very sticky. I have kept a large detail at work, and have only succeeded in crossing twenty teams. There are thirty-eight wagons now parked at foot of mountain, which will cross to-morrow.