Meigs. General Butler could have known as much had he inquired at these headquarters instead of communicating direct with the Secretary. Unless very active measures are taken we must suffer for hay. We must have it during cold weather.

RUFUS INGALLS,

Brigadier-General and Quartermaster.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL,

November 25, 1864.

Major-General HUMPHREYS,

Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: Five rebel deserters from the following commands have been received at this office to-day, viz: Two from MacRae's (Kirkland's old) brigade; three from Wise's brigade. They report no late changes within the enemy's lines, and know nothing of the departure or arrival of troops. One of these men reports that he saw men from Wallace's brigade yesterday, and that they are still lying in their old position on the right of Wise's brigade.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. MCENTEE,

Captain, & c.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 25, 1864.

Major FISHER:

Sergeant Jordan reports engine in from Weldon railroad. Suppose on same road as reported by Jansen.

I. THICKSTUN,

Captain and Acting Signal Officer.

HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT,
November 25, 1864.

Major-General HUMPHREYS,

Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the signal station at the Avery house states that a column of the enemy's infantry, numbering 800, have just left camp to left of lead-works and moved toward our right. The following intercepted messages were received up to last night:*

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

B. F. FISHER,

Major and Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac.

SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,

No. 319.
November 25, 1864.

* * * * * * *

7. The Two hundred and seventh and Two hundred and ninth Regiments Pennsylvania Volunteers having, pursuant to instructions from

---------------

* See Thickstun to Fisher, 24th, p. 697.

---------------