plies in South Carolina will do the enemy more harm than the capture of either or both of those cities. They can be left for a backhanded blow. I have no doubt that you can supply your army in the country from Savannah to Raleigh; but if you shonld have much flghting you may want ammunition. If so, you must make for the coast and notify us through Savannah or New Berne to meet you. We, however, shall probably first hear of your movements through the rebel newspapers, as before. Wilmington, in my opinion, would be a much greater prize than Charleston. If you can lay waste the interior of South Carolina and destroy the railroads Charleston must be abandoned by all except a small garrison. I hope you may be able to start early and move rapidly, for quick and rapid blows will now be most effective. Thomas has done well against flood, but he is too slow for an effect- ive pursuit. Moreover, he will not live on the enemy. He himself is entirely opposed to a winter campaign, and is already speaking of recruit- ing his army for spring operations. I have, therefore, urged General Grant to send Schofield and A. J. Smith to re-enforce Canby at iViobile and move up the Alabama River to Selma and Montgomery, destroy- ing all the enemys manufactories and supplies on that line. Thomas, with the remainder of his forces. can easily defend Kentucky and Ten- nessee against any new raid that Jeff. Davis may plan in that direction. It is useless talking about putting any of our armies into winter quarters. It is not necessary, and the financial condition of the country will not permit it. Those troops not required for defense must move into the enemys country and live on it. There is no alternative; it must be done. Wishing you a happy New Year and successful campaign, I am, Yours, truly, H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSiPPI In the Field, Savannah, Ga., January 1, 18G5. Brig. Gen. L. C. EASTON, Quartermaster, Savannah, Ga.: GENERAL: The general-in-chief directs that hereafter transportation to Hilton Head and Beaufort be furnished without further orders to all colored men who desire to enlist in the regiments organizing at those points; care being taken, however, that none are so transported except at their own request. I have the honor to be, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY HITCHCOCK, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Brig. Gen. L. C. EASTON, Savannah, Ga., January 1, 1SG5. Chief Quarterntaster, Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I regret exceedingly to trouble you, but I wish you to know the exact state of things. It is reported to me by Major-General Osterhaus that his artillery horses are dying at the picket rope of