trains which may be on the road between the enemy and Washington. If you are strong enough, drive the enemy back; if not, harass him, and keep well informed of his movements.

I am, major, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

J. H. TAYLOR,

Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General.

POOLESVILLE, MD., July 29, 1864-3 p. m.

(Received 6 p. m.)

Colonel J. H. TAYLOR,

Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General:

I am here with 600 cavalry. My scouting parties are in all directions toward the river. One has just come in from Conrad's Ferry and below. No enemy has crossed or is known to be near the river at those places. Mosby was in Leesburg yesterday with 400 men and three cannon, and has probably moved up or down. I will let you know if anything of importance occurs below the Monocacy.

D. W. C. THOMPSON,

Major Second Massachusetts Cavalry.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, 22nd ARMY CORPS,
July 29, 1864.

Lieutenant PEARSONS,

Commanding Picket at Poolesville:

The enemy is reported crossing with cavalry and artillery between Conrad's and Edwards Ferry. Send a messenger back on the road to notify all trains. If you are driven from Poolesville join Major Waite with your detachment.

Respectfully,

J. H. TAYLOR,

Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General.

ALEXANDRIA, VA., July 29, 1864-10 a. m.

Lieutenant Colonel J. H. TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: The Forty-second Massachusetts reported last night; the Third Veteran Reserve Corps will report to-day to General De Russy as ordered.

Respectfully,

J. P. SLOUGH,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE,
Near Falls Church, Va., July 29, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel J. H. TAYLOR,

Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the following information has been received here this morning from our returned scouts and parties whom I consider reliable. Mosby and command are re-

32 R R - VOL XXXVII, PT II