squadron of the Third Ohio Cavalry that left these headquarters on the morning of the 5th instant on a reconnaissance to the river opposite to Guntersville returned this day at noon.

The officer in command of the squadron reports that the encampment of the enemy has been moved back from the river about 2 miles, and there appears to be a larger force there now than when our troops, accompanied by artillery and infantry, were there. The enemy have dug rifle pits, and have also mounted two pieces of artillery to command the old ferries at that point. The ferry-boats destroyed by our troops are being repaired, and I have heard from good authority will be ready for use this day or to-morrow. It is rumored that they, the enemy, will cross with the intention of destroying the bridges on the railroad as soon as they possibly can. If not too great a liberty, might I suggest that two pieces of artillery may be sent to this point or the bridge near by. I have no doubt if artillery were here and could be spared they would render good service. The country being so miserably adapted for cavalry being as effectual as they otherwise would be on more suitable ground might be obviated by having the assistance of artillery. If artillery cannot be spared, two companies of infantry would, I have no doubt, prevent any damage being done to railroad in our vicinity.

The squadron arrested Mr. Hornbuckle, a noted bushwhacker, who attempted after his arrest to escape, and did succeed in getting off some distance; would have made good his escape but for the steps taken to prevent it.

Very respectfully, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

D. A. MURRAY,

Lieutenant-Colonel Third Ohio Cavalry, Commanding.

Colonel J. B. FRY, Chief of Staff.

AUGUST 5, 1862.-Skirmish near New Market, Ala.

REPORTS, ETC.

Numbers 1.-Major General D. C. Buell, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Ohio.

Numbers 2.-Major General George H. Thomas, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, with order announcing death of Brigadier-General Robert L. McCook.

Numbers 3.-Colonel Ferdinand Van Derveer, Thirty-fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding Third Brigade.

Numbers 1.

Report of Major General D. C. Buell, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Ohio.

HUNTSVILLE, ALA., August 9, 1862.

It is with pain I inform you that Brigadier General Robert L. McCook died at 12 m. on the 6th of a gunshot wound or wounds inflicted by guerrillas on the previous day near New Market, Ala. He was indisposed, and was riding in an ambulance some distance ahead of brigade, with a member of his staff and a small escort. He had stopped to see about a camping ground for his command, when the party was attacked by a band of guerrillas, one of whom rode up to the ambulance and shot him in the side.

D. C. BUELL,

Major-General, Commanding.

Brigadier General LORENZO THOMAS.