WASHINGTON, August 1, 1864--12 m.

Major-General HUNTER,

Frederick, Md.:

If only cavalry have crossed, a pursuit with infantry would be useless. Moreover, in this extreme heat they would soon be broken down by a forced march. I am fitting out cavalry, and hope to send you several regiments to-day and to-morrow.

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

FREDERICK, MD., August 1, 1864--9. 15 a. m.

(Received 5. 50 p. m.)

Major-General HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

From recent information I believe the enemy is moving his whole cavalry force toward the west, and have directed General Duffie's cavalry to join Averell, and pursue the enemy toward Hancock and Cumberland.

D. HUNTER,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA,
Frederick, Md., August 1, 1864.

Bvt. Major General GEORGE CROOK,

Commanding Troops from Dept. of West Virginia,

In the Field, near Wolfsville, Md.:

GENERAL: Your dispatch,* dated 6. 30 this a. m., has been received. Instead of moving east, as directed, you will order General Duffie with his command to proceed westward, and, if possible, effect a junction with Brigadier-General Averell. General Averell will then move toward Hancock with his own and General Duffie's commands. You will remain with your infantry in your present camp.

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

D. HUNTER,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS FORCES IN THE FIELD,
DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA,

Wolfsville, August 1, 1864.

Brigadier-General DUFFIE,

Commanding First Cavalry Division:

SIR: In accordance with instructions just received from department headquarters you will proceed with your whole command westward, and, if possible, effect a junction with Brigadier General W. W. Averell, co-operating with his command.

By command of Brevet Major-General Crook:

JAS. L. BOTSFORD,

Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.

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*Not found.

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