of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry to carry out the provisions of said instructions as far as lies within his power. All persons arrested you will confine as prisoners of war and at such points within your department as you may deem best, or I will authorize the transfer of them to Fort McHenry. The information which I have received confirms your dispatch that the forces sent from Richmond crossed over into the Valley from Culpeper, with the exception that General Anderson is in command instead of Longstreet. You will please forward frequent reports of the information that you may receive.

P. H. SHERIDAN,

Major-General.

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON,22ND ARMY CORPS, August 19, 1864.

Major WAITE,
Commanding Eighth Illinois Cavalry, Muddy Branch:

MAJOR: Since my communication to you of the 18th instant circumstances have ensued making it necessary that there be as little delay as practicable in your movements. You should be in Loudoun County as soon as possible.

Very respectfully, major, your most obedient servant,

J. H. TAYLOR,

LieutenantColonel, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General.

MUDDY BRANCH, August 19, 1864-6 p.m. [Received 6.30 p.m.]

Colonel J. H. TAYLOR,

Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: Your communications of 18th and 19th both just received at once. Have just started inclosure to Major Fry, who will not be able to get my line taken up to-night. I will use utmost exertion in getting started.

Very respectfully,

JNO. M. WAITE,

Major, Commanding.

MUDDY BRANCH, August 19, 1864-6.30 p.m. [Received 6.40 p.m.]

Lieutenant-Colonel TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: I have received no orders to relieve the detachment of cavalry with me from Camp Stoneman. They are not supplied with pistols. Shall I take them with me?

JNO. M. WAITE,

Major, &c.