were at Loudon last night. Two deserts taken to-day say they were going to fall back on Longstreet when we approached. There is some rebel cavalry between my columns and the river trying to escape.

I am, very respectfully,

JEF. C. DAVIS,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

P. S.-Orderly was detained by me.

DECEMBER 2, 1863.

Captain W. P. ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

My scouts caught 2 of the officers, Taylor and Sheldon, to-night 6 miles from the city, who escaped from Columbus penitentiary with Morgan. Morgan is believed to be in Kentucky. If so-and it is possible- I will catch him.

J. T. BOYLE,

Brigadier-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS,
WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE,

Numbers 534. Washington, December 2, 1863.

* * * * * * * * *

22. Brigadier-General Cox, U. S. Volunteers, as soon as he competes his duties at Sandusky, Ohio,* will report in person, without delay, for duty to the general commanding the army in East Tennessee.

* * * * * * * * *

By order of the Secretary of War:

E. D. TOWNSEND,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

Washington City, December 3, 1863-2.25 p. m.

(Received 2,35 p. m.)

Brigadier General M. C. MEIGS,

Quartermaster-General, Chattanooga:

Accept my cordial thanks for your very interesting report of the battle before Chattanooga.+ Various recommendations which you have made from time have been carried out. The considerations presented in your letter of the 21st, which is just received, appear satisfactory to me and the appointments recommended by you will be made accordingly. To avoid any omission, you had better telegraph to me the names of all whom you desire appointed.

EDWIN M. STANTON.

* Where he was ordered November 12, in consequence of an apprehended raid from Canada. See Series III.

+ See Part II, p. 77.