ion my thanks for the manner in which they have, with few exceptions, performed their whole duty, thereby greatly aiding me in the exercise of the command of such division. To you and to them I tender my acknowledgments of their gallantry and their soldierly conduct on all occasions, both on the field and in camp.

For your own services in the command of my division I have to thank you, and to assure you of my appreciation of your labors in the camp and your gallantry and skill in the field.

I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ROBT. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General.

DECHERD, October 27, 1863.

Lieutenant Colonel C. GODDARD,

Assistant-Adjutant-General.

The following dispatch is just received:

COLUMBIA, October 27, 1863.

Major W. H. SINCLAIR,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Decherd:

My scouts have returned from Pulaski. They learn from deserters that rebel cavalry have not crossed the Tennessee; that Wheeler had stated his intention to cross as soon as organized. The deserters left the river Saturday morning. Scouts from Shelbyville have been to Pulaski. I shall send scouts to penetrate as far as the river, if possible, and will keep you advised.

H. R. MIZNER,

Colonel, Commanding.

WILLIAM H. SINCLAIR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

TULLAHOMA, October 27, 1863.

Lieutenant-Colonel RODGERS,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

Have just arrived. My headquarters will be here for the present. Will report position of troops tomorrow. Please send division mail here.

A. S. WILLIAMS,

Brigadier-General, Commanding Division.

TULLAHOMA, October 27, 1863-6 p. m.

Lieutenant-Colonel RODGERS,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

Have the kindness to inform me whether my orders, sending the Second Massachusetts to Christiana and the Third Wisconsin to Wartrace, were changed upon their reporting at corps headquarters, and, if so, what are their present position?

THOS. H. RUGER,

Brigadier-General.

48 R R-VOL XXXI, PT I