being already there. Have the troops embarked as rapidly as possible, and report to me when the first trains will leave for Stevenson and Murfreesborough.

GEO. H. THOMAS,

Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.

DECATUR, November 24, 1864-1.45 p.m.

Major-General THOMAS,

Commanding:

Your telegram of this date is just received. Will be all ready as soon as cars arrive. They have not been heard from.

R. S. GRANGER,

Brigadier-General.

NASHVILLE, November 24, 1864-4.30 p.m.

Brigadier General R. S. GRANGER,

Decatur:

Your dispatch of 1.45 p.m. to-day received. Over 120 cars should have reported to you to-day at Huntsville by 10 a.m. to-day. I will direct the commanding officer at Huntsville to report to you immediately. Have the troops embarked as rapidly as possible. Carefully carry out my instructions to you.

GEO. H. THOMAS,

Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.

DECATUR, November 24, 1864.

Major-General THOMAS:

Your dispatch just received. Only one train of twelve cars has yet reported.

R. S. GRANGER,

Brigadier-General.

DECATUR, November 24, 1864.

Major-General THOMAS:

Please inform me where the enemy is supposed to be; I can learn nothing of his movements beyond Shoal Creek. I have most reliable scouts out, who will give me information this evening or to-morrow morning.

R. S. GRANGER,

Brigadier-General.

NASHVILLE, November 24, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER,

Huntsville, Ala.:

Report to me immediately whether trains of cars for troops have arrived at Huntsville, and whether troops are embarking, and when they will start. Inform General Granger also, at Decatur.

GEO. H. THOMAS,

Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.