CHILLICOTHE, July 23, 1864.

General FISK:

Colonel Barr's retreat from Kingston yesterday was caused by the approach of a part of the men sent out from here on Tuesday. Their horses were worn out; they tried to stop Colonel Barr to make themselves known to him, but he outran them. The men have just returned and report these facts. No enemy between here and Kingston.

A. J. SWAIN,

Lieutenant- Colonel.

CHILLICOTHE, July 23, 1864.

General FISK:

I will keep the citizens of Chillicothe on duty to guard the town. Will have enough men to hold the place against any amount of thieves that is likely to come upon us. Will organize a company of 100 men of this county, will mounted,and send them home till I can procure arms for them.

A. J. SWAIN,

Lieutenant-Colonel.

CHILLICOTHE, July 23, 1864.

General FISK:

Colonel Shanklin reports that he has 160 men within ten miles, who can be in to- night. He has 190 men expecting arms to- night. If advised at once of the direction you would have me move, I can move to morrow morning with these 350 militia and my own 200 cavalry, including Major Leonard's command.

L. C. MATLACK,

Major Seventeenth Illinois Cavalry.

SAINT JOSEPH, July 23, 1864.

Major L. C. MATLACK,

Chillicothe, Mo.:

Rest your command and organize as large a force as possible from the militia to accompany you. Report by telegraph as soon as you are ready to move,and number you can move with.

CLINTON B. FISK,

Brigadier-General.

SAINT JOSEPH, July 23, 1864.

Major L. C. MATLACK,

Chillicothe, Mo.:

Be ready to move to- morrow morning at daylight,in such directions as I may in the meantime order. I cannot tell definitely what direction. Shall get news from the field to- day, and you will be duly advised. Be prepared for a regular fox hunt.

CLINTON B. FISK,

Brigadier-General.