p. m., he saw cavalry, about 100 in number, some dismounted holding the horses of others while some were fixing their arms. I have notified my command to be ready for any emergency, and have another squadron saddled in camp to move out if an attack is made at any point.

Very respectfully,

J. P. TAYLOR,

Colonel, Commanding First Brigade.

CUMBERLAND, MD., January 12, 1864-4 p. m.

(Received 6. 15 p. m.)

Brigadier-General CULLUM,

Chief of Staff:

General Sullivan's cavalry scouts report Early falling back up the Shenandoah Valley. He was believed to be near Woodstock on Saturday. All quiet in the western portion of my department. The snow in the mountains and excessive cold weather preclude any active operations on my part or the enemy's. The Kanawha River is frozen over. I go to-night to Washington to testify in the case of Colonel McReynolds before court-martial.

B. F. KELLEY,

Brigadier-General.

MARTINSBURG, W. VA., January 12, 1864.

Captain BOONE,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

Six deserters from Imboden have just come in; report from 500 to 800 men of that force at Dayton. Rosser is at Timberville with about 1,000; no other in the valley; says there is much desertion.

R. S. RODGERS,

Colonel, Commanding.

HARPER'S FERRY, W. VA., January 12, 1864.

Colonel R. S. RODGERS,

Martinsburg, W. Va.:

Send a force to Newport, Shepherdstown, and along the river to prevent all persons, soldiers, officers, and citizens from crossing until further orders. Send instructions to Kearneysville, Duffield's, and all picket stations on the railroad; arrest all persons crossing with horses.

By order of Brigadier-General Sullivan:

D. H. HARKINS,

Major, &c.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,
Fort Monroe, January 12, 1864.

Brigadier General E. A. WILD,

Norfolk:

GENERAL: You will order the Tenth U. S. Colored to break up their camp at or near Craney Island and proceed to the Eastern Shore