our returned prisoners. Even their transportation seriously embarrasses us. Many will be captured, and but few can possibly rejoin their commands in time for opening campaign. Concentrated in some healthy camp in Virginia or North Carolina and provisionally organized, they would form an important reserve at this crisis, even if not physically fit for an active campaign.

BRAXTON BRAGG.

FEBRUARY 23, 1865.

Colonel JOHN B. SALE,

Raleigh:

(Care of Governor Vance.)

We evacuated Wilmington yesterday morning, bringing off everything of value. Enemy made but feeble pursuit. Both armies now stationary. Our headquarters near Burgaw Station.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS, February 23, 1865.

(Received 24th.)

General BRAGG,
Teachey's:

General Johnston applies for Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, assistant adjutant-general. If you can spare him order him to report to General Johnston at or near Charlotte.

R. E. LEE.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA,
February 23, 1865-8 a. m.

General HEBERT:

The commanding general desires you to put your negro force in motion for Goldsborough, under a proper officer, and a suitable number of managers, with instructions to repair the roads, bridges, &c., thoroughly as they go along. You, with your other officers and engineer troops, will continue to move with the army.

Respectfully, &c.,

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS,
Camp near Burgaw Station, February 23, 1865-10 a. m.

General HOKE:

General Bragg desires to know whether there is any indication of movements by the enemy in your rear which would require the trains here to move on. Unless pressed back he wishes the cavalry to remain on the Northeast.

Respectfully, &c.,

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.