STATION NEAR GIBBON'S HOUSE, August 17, 1864.

Major B. F. FISHER:

There appears to be a decrease in the enemy's camps all along the woods west of the city. Saw one train of thirty-three wagons moving north on line of Petersburg and Richmond Railroad at 4 p.m. Still working on forts reported, but with small force to-day.

A. C. JORDAN,

Sergeant.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, August 17, 1864-10.45 a.m.

Major FISHER:

All quiet. Enemy using the spade along the first line of works.

WARTS,
Lieutenant.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 17, 1864.

Major-General HUMPHREYS,

Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that my lookouts convey the impression that the enemy has to a very great extent weakened their lines in our immediate front within the past three or four days. At about 4 p.m. a train of wagons was seen passing northward upon the Richmond road. Thirty-three were counted, when the rain closed in and shut out all further observation. Small squads of the enemy were employed at various points of their lines, increasing the strength of the works.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

B. F. FISHER,

Captain and Chief Signal Officer.

SPECIAL ORDERS,
WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE,

No. 273. Washington, August 17, 1864.

* * * * * * *

41. The following officers of the Signal Corps, U. S. Army, will report in person without delay to the chief signal officer, Army of the Potomac, for assignment to duty: Captain F. E. Town, Captain G. S. Dana.

* * * * * * *

By order of the Secretary of War:

E. D. TOWNSEND,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, August 17, 1864. (Received 9.30 a.m.)

Lieutenant-General GRANT:

A close examination of the enemy's line this morning shows nothing new except that they have been at work all night strengthening their line on our right and extending their intrenchments in that direction.

WINF'D S. HANCOCK,
Major-General.

(Same to General Meade.)