RICHMOND, March 4, 1864.

General S. COOPER:

GENERAL: From the report of Major-General Elzey this morning I deem the further presence of troops drawn from other points unnecessary, and suggest that they be returned to their respective positions and that the previous order for a brigade to General Whiting be now renewed.

Very respectfully, &c.,

BRAXTON BRAGG,

General.

RICHMOND, VA., March 4, 1864.

Major General A. ELZEY,

Richmond, Va.:

I am directed by the Adjutant-General to inform you that the presence of troops drawn from other points for the defense of this city is deemed now unnecessary. They will therefore be returned to their respective positions.

Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant,

H. L. CLAY,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

ORANGE COURT-HOUSE, March 4, 1864.

Major-General ELZEY:

Use the troops about Richmond to repair the railroads as speedily as possible.

R. E. LEE.

WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, Va., March 4, 1864.

General G. E. PICKETT,

Petersburg, Va.:

No force on the south side. Enemy believed to have retreated to Williamsburg.

J. A. SEDDON,

Secretary of War.

RICHMOND, VA., March 4, 1864.

Major General G. E. PICKETT,

Petersburg, Va.:

Your two last dispatches of yesterday did not reach me until too late last night to answer. I had previously directed General Elzey to telegraph you that we needed no more troops from your command. You must have received my dispatch respecting the troops at High Bridge.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.