BALTIMORE, MD., March 5, 1864-6 p. m.

(Received 6. 40 p. m.)

Honorable EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

The Eastern Shore counties of Virginia were removed from this department and assigned to that of General Butler two months ago. I learn that there are two companies of cavalry near Cherrystone.

H. H. LOCKWOOD,

Brigadier-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT, March 5, 1864-7. 20 p. m.

Brigadier-General LOCKWOOD:

You have not answered my question. I am aware that two counties of the Neck and Saint Mary's were attached to General Butler's command. I asked you what was the nearest force you have to Cherrystone, the description and number. Please answer that question.

E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

BALTIMORE, MD., March 5, 1864-10 p. m.

(Received 11. 20 p. m.)

Honorable E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

I have one company of cavalry at Newtown, Md., 75 miles from Cherrystone, and three companies of infantry at Salisbury, Md., 100 miles from Cherrystone; telegraph stations at both places. Your former telegram was erroneously communicated, and my reply an exact reply to the message as received.

H. H. LOCKWOOD,

Brigadier-General.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,
Fort Monroe, March 5, 1864.

Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE,

Commanding off Newport News:

ADMIRAL: I have news of an attack meditated upon our forces at Suffolk. The rebels have captured our telegraph boat and broken up our telegraph line at the Eastern Shore. With what force can you aid us in the Nansemond? Please reply by telegraph.

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

B. F. BUTLER,

Major-General, Commanding.

FORT MONROE, March 5, 1864.

Brigadier-General KILPATRICK:

You will at once march 1,000 of your cavalry to Newport News: boats and forage will meet them there. Transportation for your battery and the balance of your cavalry will be sent to Yorktown.

R. S. DAVIS,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.