service for me to know this. If you can't safely send answer by telegraph, but wish to let me know, can't you send it up by confidential messenger on afternoon train?

D. N. COUCH,

Major-General.

JULY 29, 1864-9 a. m.

Major-General COUCH,

Chambersburg:

Enemy making strong demonstrations at Williamsport. I shall not uncover you if I can help it.

WM. W. AVERELL,

Brigadier-General.

JULY 29, 1864-10 a. m.

Major-General COUCH,

Chambersburg:

Enemy driving in my pickets on the Williamsport road.

WM. W. AVERELL,

Brigadier-General.

CHAMBERSBURG, July 29, 1864.

Brigadier-General AVERELL:

At 12. 10 p. m. this day operator at Hagerstown left his instrument stating that he had been ordered by you to do so. After 2 p. m. it was reported that a man came to Greencastle, without any orders from General Averell, demanding an engine. You train has just passed through. What is the state of affairs in your front?

D. N. COUCH,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION,
Greencastle, July 29, 1864.

Major-General COUCH,

Chambersburg, Pa.:

The enemy commenced crossing at McCoy's Ferry at daylight this morning and continued up to last report at 11 a. m. with cavalry, artillery, and infantry. Commenced crossing at Williamsport at 10 a. m. cavalry; at Falling Waters at same time with cavalry and trains; at Shepherdstown at same time with cavalry. My communication with my picket-line was broken about noon; although many couriers have been sent, it is possible that some have not received my orders. Please inform me what pickets you have across this Valley, and order those in reach of your to halt any men belonging I have reported, are made to cover a movement in the direction of Bedford or a retreat. If they come this way I shall remain here to see what they do it with, and avail myself of any opportunity to attack them.

Very respectfully,

WM. W. AVERELL,

Brigadier-General.