at Stafford Court-House, and think I will get everything here without any trouble. Report of strong force moving on Fredericksburg, but I cannot believe it.

A. E. BURNSIDE,

Major-General.

AQUIA, VA., September 1, 1862-7 p.m.

Brigadier-General MEIGS, Quartermaster-General:

It is very important that we should have at least twelve light-draught steamboats, such as the Ariel, Nellie Baker, &c., to embark our troops.

A. E. BURNSIDE,

Major-General.

DEPOT QUARTERMASTER'S OFFICE,

Washington, D. C., September 1, 1862-11.10 p.m.

Major-General BURNSIDE, Aquia Creek, Va.:

Efforts will be made to give you to-morrow the twelve steamers asked for in your dispatch of 7 p.m., just received.

M. C. MEIGS,

Quartermaster-General.

DEPOT QUARTERMASTER'S OFFICE,

Washington, D. C., September 1, 1862-11.10 p.m.

Captain C. B. FERGUSON,

Assistant Quartermaster, Alexandria:

It is very important that General Burnside should have twelve light draught steamers, such as the Ariel, Nellie Baker, &c., to embark his troops at Aquia Creek. He says he needs at least that many. Send them as soon as possible.

M. C. MEIGS,

Quartermaster-General.

NAVY DEPARTMENT,

September 1, 1862-10.35 a.m.

Major General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Aquia Creek, Va.:

Commodore Wilkes left Hampton Roads yesterday with nine gun-boats, and you had better intercept him when he passes to-day. He will no doubt leave part of his force with you at your request.

G. V. FOX,

Assistant Secretary.

AQUIA, VA., September 1, 1862-8 p.m.

Captain G. V. FOX,

Assistant Secretary of the Navy:

It is very important that we should have more gunboats to protect the embarking of troops. The gunboats to-day did not stop. Can you send us some more?

A. E. BURNSIDE,

Major-General.