WASHINGTON, March 18, 1864-2. 15 p. m.

Major-General BUTLER,

Fort Monroe, Va.:

The transfer of artillery to infantry, &c., produces dissatisfaction in the States and among volunteers. The chief of artillery has recommendanded that the surplus artillery recruits be detached for service in the field batteries as required. Can you not use them in that way in your department?

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

Washington, March 18, 1864-2. 30 p. m.

Major-General BUTLER,

Fort Monroe:

Howard says Ford's Bridge is strong new bridge lately built by the rebels between Bottom's Brigade and McClellan's pole bridge, on the Chickahominy. Meade's scould will be sent you as soon as he arrives.

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

WASHINGTON, March 19, 1864-11 a. m.

Lieutenant-General GRANT,

Louisville or Nashville:

From all information received it is thought that Longstreet is now with Lee, and that some movement will soon be made.

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

CULPEPER, March 19, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel C. ROSS SMITH,

Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps:

Your dispatch was received last night at 1. 30 a. m. A reconnaissance was sent out yesterday evening as soon as your letter by staff officer was received, with instructions to move to Russells' Ford and from there toward Sperryville, scouring the country thoroughly.

The officer was instructed in reference to discovering cause of fire, &c. He was ordered to sent in information, if important, in advance of his return. No news yet.

W. MERRITT,

Brigadier-General.

CULPEPER, March 19, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel C. ROSS SMITH,

Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps:

reconnaissance sent out last night went to Russell's Ford, near Madison Court-House, and from there toward Sperryville about 8