[CHAP. XLIII.

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS,
Yoe's House, 6 Miles from Rutledge, December, 14, 1863-8.30.

Major-General PARKE,

Commanding Forces:

GENERAL: I have withdrawn my line to this side of the road leading to the river, 2 miles above Turley's Mill. I am thoroughly satisfied that Longstreet's command is in our front, and I think his cavalry is moving down the river. The picket from the Poor Valley road reports heavy firing over the mountain this evening in the direction of Tazewell. A dispatch came from General Foster to you; it had been opened by General Ferrero, and then addressed to you or me. I read it and sent it back immediately.

I am, general, very truly,

SHACKELFORD,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO,
December 14, 1863.

Brigadier General W. L. ELLIOTT,

Chief of Cavalry, General Thomas' Corps:

GENERAL: Your dispatches of the 13th instant have just reached me. After my letter of yesterday was written orders came to me from General Grant placing both you and General Granger under my command, to remain with me until Longstreet was driven from the State. Our cavalry is now checked by the superiority of their force, and I desire you to make all possible haste in joining them. You will bring your wagon train and be able to subsist the command on the country as our cavalry are now doing.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. G. FOSTER,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Kingston, Tennessee, December 14, 1863.

Major General J. J. REYNOLDS,

Chief of Staff, Hdqrs. Dept. of the Cumberland, Chattanooga:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose copy of communication just received from Major-General Foster, inclosing me a copy of the telegram of Major-General Thomas of the 11th.

In accordance with General Foster's instructions my command leaves immediately for Knoxville.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. L. ELLIOTT,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, and Chief of Cavalry.

[Inclosure.]

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO,
December 13, 1863.

Brigadier General W. L. ELLIOTT,

Chief of Cavalry, General Thomas' Corps:

GENERAL: I inclose you telegram* this day received from General Thomas. Longstreet is retreating at his leisure, knowing the infe-

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*See Thomas to Elliott, December 11, p. 378.

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