it so, as to hold all the enemy there. Sherman's safety may be dependent upon your efforts. Should you drive the enemy out of Dalton, follow him as far as possible. If you have sufficiently recovered your health, I would like to have you go out to the front in person, if only to see the situation of affairs and return.

U. S. GRANT,

Major-General.

CHATTANOOGA, February 24, 1864-9 p.m.

Major General U. S. GRANT,

Dispatch from Tunnel Hill, 4 p.m., says we have just gained possession of Tunnel Hill pass; small loss. Dispatch from Colonel McCook of Elliott's cavalry, reports having captured near Murphy, N. C., 5 commissioned officers, 65 men, and burned five wagons. Fifteen of Thomas' North Carolina Indians came in and surrendered themselves to Colonel McCook on the 22nd. Your dispatch of 10.30 a.m. was not received until 5.30 p.m. I have ordered the enemy to be pushed as you directed, and shall start for the front in the morning.

GEO. H. THOMAS.

General.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, February 24, 1864. (Received 6.30 p.m.)

Brigadier-General CRUFT:

Grose is probably engaged on the railroad, as the sound of artillery can be distinctly heard in that direction. Ascertain and support him if necessary. Just heard sound of musketry.

J. M. PALMER,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
February 24, 1864-12 m.

Brigadier-General CRUFT,

Commanding, &c.:

GENERAL: Have you found a direct road to Dalton? Have you had a report from your reconnaissance? No news yet.

Respectfully,

J. M. PALMER,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Catoosa Station, February 24, 1864-12.45 p.m.

Brigadier-General CRUFT:

Commanding, &c.:

GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that he has as yet no news from Tunnel Hill.

He desires you to be ready to follow your advanced brigades.

Very respectfully,

D. W. NORTON,

Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.