to mention the name of the officer, but assented when I told him I would substitute the "highest authority." I did this rather than nor write at all, supposing that under the circumstances you would have no difficulty in understanding who was meant. Thank God, the thing had been met, and I do not doubt greatly to your advantage, for your letters to the governor and McRae were written in a spirit of such pure, disinterested patriotism that they have had good effect. I am directed to form the reserve into brigades. I will be obliged if you will recommend to me by telegraph some good man to be appointed to command the regiment of Junior Reserves, to be made of the three battalions near Wilmington. There will be a brigade of the Juniors, all of which will be available for you.

I am, general, yours,

T. H. HOLMES.

SPECIAL ORDERS,
ADJT. AND INSP. GENERAL'S OFFICE,

No. 231.
Richmond, Va., September 29, 1864.

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II. The Local Defense Troops under the command of Brigadier General W. M. Gardner, Provisional Army, C. S., will immediately report to Lieutenant General R. S. Ewell, commanding, &c. Such of the brigade as may be essential to the manufacture and continuance of current supplies to the army will remain on duty as heretofore.

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By command of the Secretary of War:

JNumbers WITHERS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
Chaffin's Bluff, September 29, 1864 - 9.30 p. m.

Honorable JAMES A. SEDDON,

Secretary:

General Gregg reports that he repulsed the several attacks of the enemy made against the intermediate line of defenses, capturing many prisoners. The enemy still hold Battery Harrison on the exterior line. Our loss is very small.

R. E. LEE.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
September 29, 1864.

General SAMUEL COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond:

General Lee has moved to Chaffin's Bluff, where he can be communicated with. Please inform the honorable Secretary of War and General Bragg.

W. H. TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.