thence up to Lynchburg. Their force was estimated at 18,000 by persons who took particular pains to observe them. They moved away rapidly.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN C. VAUGHN,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Enemy burned Institute college, Governor Letcher's dwelling, and General Smith's.

RICHMOND, VA., June 16, 1864-3.15 p. m.

Major-General BRECKINRIDGE:

A raiding party is reported moving from the direction of Lynchburg on Danville. It is being pursued. In your dispatch to General Cooper you asked for a cavalry commander. Has not Major-General Ransom reported to you?

BRAXTON BRAGG.

[Indorsement.]

GENERAL: Our direct line has been cut by enemy between Petersburg and Richmond. We can still communicate with Richmond by using the Danville railroad line, but not as promptly as by Petersburg.

C. F. BARNES.

LYNCHBURG, June 16, 1864-2.15 p. m.

General BRAGG:

I am satisfied that the main body of the enemy is east of Blue Ridge, passing from Buchanan by Peaks of Otter road. General Early is at Charlottesville, and trains have been sent him to bring troops here. Hope we shall be able to destroy Hunter. Did you receive my dispatch about a cavalry officer?

JOHN C. BRECKINRIDGE,

Major-General.

LYNCHBURG, June 16, 1864-4.30 p. m.

General BRAGG:

Your dispatch of 3.15 this date received. My dispatch about cavalry officer was addressed to you. General Ransom has not reported. I know of no raiding party, except about 300 men who were reported to me on my arrival here as having passed road by Campbell Court-House and returned to Liberty, in Bedford County. They were pursued, but without energy or result.

JOHN C. BRECKINRIDGE,

Major-General.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, June 16, 1864-11.40 a. m.

General BRECKINRIDGE:

Send off at once all engines and cars of Orange and Alexandria Railroad to this place, including everything at its disposal. I will