HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Chattanooga, October 26, 1863.

Maj. General JOSEPH HOOKER,

Stevenson:

Your telegram of 10 p.m. last night received. Commence the movement to-morrow morning, 27th, and open and secure the railroad and wagon road from Bridgeport to Rankin's Ferry, and thence as far toward Chattanooga as you can. General Palmer will co-operate with you at Rankin's Ferry. We will cross a co-operating force at Brown's Ferry, and take possession of the south bank there.

By command of Major-General Thomas:

J. J. REYNOLDS,

Major-General, and Chief of Staff.

OCTOBER 26, 1863-1.20 a.m.

General THOMAS:

Beat the enemy off William's Island twice to-night. Will hold it. Want no help.

WHITAKER,

General.

OCTOBER 26, 1863-11.40 a.m.

General WHITAKER:

Did the enemy attempt to get on William's Island in force?

THOMAS,

Major-General.

OCTOBER 26, 1863-12.20 p.m.

General THOMAS:

I do not know how much force. It was night. They made two strong efforts. I can beat them off.

WHITAKER,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Chattanooga, October 26, 1863-4.30 p.m.

Major-General HOOKER,

Stevenson:

The letter of General Wood forms no part of your instructions. It was simply sent as information from an officer who had passed over the road, and to be thrown with what other information you can gain from other sources.

Your instructions are contained in two telegrams from these headquarters-one of October 24,2.30 p.m., and the other the telegram of this morning, directing the movement to commence to-morrow morning. Answer.

By command of Major-General Thomas:

J. J. REYNOLDS,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.