[CHAP. XLIII.

by train now leaving, having two of Wood's regiments on board. A steamer with supplies arrived last night at Loudon. Shall send first for the ammunition at Kingston and then for more supplies. Shoes and coats for Granger's men brought up. Am clothing his men here and will forward them and the remainder of shoes to Strawberry Plains. I think the subject of rations is very much more favorable. Shall start at 12 m. for Strawberry Plains, and perhaps join you to-night. Get ready to give Mr. Longstreet a drubbing if he comes down.

J. G. FOSTER,

Major-General, Commanding.

KNOXVILLE, December 17, 1863-12. 45 p.m.

General ELLIOTT:

There are several fords on the Holston above you. I will send a list of fords in half an hour. It is important to unite your command on the south side of the Holston, if possible, and to push up rapidly to engage the enemy's cavalry. You may strike their train. However, if Sturgis has matured plan of operating, please follow it.

J. G. FOSTER,

Major-General, Commanding.

KNOXVILLE, December 17, 1863-12.45 p.m.

General ELLIOTT:

Your dispatch received. Act in conjunction, with Sturgis. The object is to whip Wheeler and act on Longstreet's flank. It will be better to move up at once. You will doubtless find fords.

J. G. FOSTER,

Major-General, Commanding.

[DECEMBER] 17, 1863-1 p.m.

Major General J. G. PARKE,

Commanding:

GENERAL: Your dispatch of 12.40 is received. It is about as we expected. I will make no change, however, in my present arrangements unless you desire it.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. D. STURGIS,

Brigadier-General, Commanding Cavalry.

BLAIN'S CROSS-ROADS,

December 17, 1863-4.10 p.m.

General ELLIOTT,

Commanding Division, Cavalry Corps:

Since the accompanying dispatch was written by General Sturgis, at my request, General Granger and I have concluded that in the event of your not being able to cross the river at once, move your