press on to re-enforce General Leventhorpe. He will understand that the moment the emergency calling for this service is passed, these forces will return here. Telegraph General Leventhorpe of movement, also of Millard's and Hahr's battalions, also Colonel Starr. Order commissary stores and forage.

Very respectfully,

W. H. C. WHITING,

Major-General.

WILMINGTON, December 9, 1864.

General HEBERT, Smithville:

I intended to come down to-day but cannot. Lee reports the Fifth and Second Corps from Grant's army, with a division of cavalry and a large number of wagons and cattle, moving on North Carolina by Veldon. Last night they were near Belfield. A part of Lee's army is following. He requires all the troops in this department available to oppose. Between Bragg and Lee, Sherman and Grant, od North Carolina is in a pretty fix. This morning I get word from the front that raids are moving on railroad from Sheppardsville and New Berne. Am compelled to hold Jackson in hand with Paris' battery and three battalions of Junior Reserves. Am glad there is a northeaster.

W. H. C. WHITING,

Major-General.

[DECEMBER 10, 1864-For Lee to Seddon (two dispatches), reporting operations, &c., see Part I, p. 855.]

HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY CORPS, December 10, 1864.

General R. E. LEE,
Commanding, &c., Petersburg:

I will move my command out before day to operate against the enemy on this side. Will you keep me advised of the enemy's movements on your side of the river, as they may have some influence on my movements.

J. LONGSTREET,

Lieutenant-General.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY CORPS, December 10, 1864.

Lieutenant General R. S. well,
Commanding, &c., Chaffin's Farm:

General Longstreet will move against the enemy at 5 o'clock this morning. Will you co-operate with his move by making such demonstrations as you think best.

O. LATROBE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.