concentrate and overcome with all other forces the army of General Sherman. To do this is to do at once and by a single act that which secures our deliverance. These and other matters of graver, I may say to you of vital, interest have induced me to make this communication. I will be glad to know your opinion upon these all all other matters which affect the public welfare.

With great respect, your obedient servant,

A. G. MAGRATH.

[47.]

GRAHAMVILLE, January 14, 1865 - 6 p. m.

Lieutenant General W. J. HARDEE,

Charleston:

Dispatches from Georgia side of river report no movement of enemy in any direction. A deserter from Savannah reports troops leaving Savannah going toward Charleston.

J. WHEELER,

Major-General.

(Send copy of above to General McLaws, Pocotaligo.)

[47.]

NEAR DEEP BOTTOM CHURCH,

January 15, 1865.

Major-General McLAWS:

GENERAL: I left my position this morning. Have established a line from McPhersonville to the Savannah River. The enemy crossed the Coosawhatchie with a small force of infantry last night, but it was easily held in check by my pickets at that point. Nothing from enemy to-day. I placed one regiment betwee the Coosawhatchie and Combahee, and will re-enforce it if the enemy advance in a northerly direction. Reports from the other side of the Ogeechee River say enemy are moving toward Savannah.

Respectfully, general, your obedient servant,

JOS. WHEELER,

Major-General.

[47.]

ROBERTSVILLE AND McBRIDE'S BRIDGE ROAD,

January 15, 1865.

Lieutenant General W. J. HARDEE,

Charleston:

Reports from Liberty County state enemy are moving toward Savannah. I have fully explained my position to General McLaws.

J. WHEELER,

Major-General.

[47.]

RICHMOND, VA., January 18, 1865.

Governor J. E. BROWN,

Milledgeville, Ga.:

Yours of 16th received. General Hardee telegraphed on the 8th instant that General Smith's force, then at Augusta, numbered less