Shelby's advance, in which case send them against him, and I will send a force from this side. We must meet his before he comes to the railroad, and prevent his junction with the forces south.

E. A. CARR,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
Devall's Bluff, Ark., July 17, 1864.

Colonel W. F. GEIGER,

Commanding 3rd Brigadier, 2nd Div., 7th A. C., Devall's Bluff, Ark.:

COLONEL: The general commanding Second division directs that you have your whole force, including the Ninth Iowa, ready to move, properly provided with a full supply of ammunition and five days' rations, upon the receipt of orders from these headquarters to meet Shelby at a point north of the railroad. A force will be sent from Little Rock to co-operate with you. Have everything in readiness for an immediate march.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. C. FILLEBROWN,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
Devall's Bluff, Ark., July 17, 1864.

Colonel W. F. GEIGER,

Commanding Third Brigade:

The railroad track has been torn up on the second prairie, nine miles out from town. Men were seen on the north side of track, about two miles off. You will send out a mounted patrol immediately, using your own discretion as to the number.

By order of Brigadier General C. C. Andrews:

EBEN C. LITHERLAND,

First Lieutenant, 15th Illinois Cavalry, and Acting Aide-de-Camp.

BROWNSVILLE, ARK.,

July 17, 1864-1 p.m.

Captain C. H. DYER,

Asst. Adjt. General, District of Little Rock:

I went to Bayou Des Arc yesterday. Found the enemy 1,500 strong four miles beyond, at Gum Spring; drove in his pickets and brought off my hospital steward and three wounded men of Captain Wilson's command. Shelby was there in person yesterday morning. The force consists of Witt's, Jackman's, and Ross' regiments. I was bushwhacked all the way from Austin. I had 4 men wounded. Will be back to-morrow evening.

JAMES STUART,

Colonel, Commanding.