from Meade's army to Front Royal. I have no doubt this is the force previously reported by Major Gilmor. I have sent General Stuart a copy of General Lee's telegram. Two brigades of Fitz. Lee's are in Albemarle, north of Charlottesville. I have suggested to Stuart the propriety of having a brigade or two ready to move, in anticipation of any call for assistance from the Valley.

Respectfully,

W. H. TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[29.]

DECEMBER 13, 1863.

General EWELL:

GENERAL: On yesterday a telegram was received from Major Gilmor in the Valley, stating result of scout to Millwood, as follows: Discovered 2,000 infantry, 700 cavalry, 8 pieces artillery, and 80 wagons at Millwood. Citizens report large bodies of troops between Berryville and Charlestown. Enemy expressed intention of advancing up the Valley. I have just received inclosed telegram from New Market and one similar from Major Gilmor. General Stuart has been approsed of all this, and requested to communicate with Colonel Willis, now on his way to the mountains. I have also requested Imboden to communicate with Willis. General Lee has been regularly informed of these reports.

Respectfully,

W. H. TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[29.]

SPECIAL ORDERS,
HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Numbers 306.
December 13, 1863.

I. Leave of absence for thirty days, with permission to apply for an extension of thirty, is hereby granted Lieutenant Colonel J. L. Corley, chief quartermaster, Army of Northern Virginia. During the temporary absence of Lieutenant-Colonel Corley, Major Harman will assume the duties of chief quartermaster of the army and Captain Garber those of the Second Corps. These officers will be respected and obeyed accordingly.

* * * * *

By command of General Lee:

W. H. TAYLOR,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

[29.]

DECEMBER 14, 1863-8 a. m.

Lieutenant-General EWELL:

GENERAL: Upon the receipt of the latest intelligence from the Valley last night, Major General Fitz. Lee was ordered with two brigades of cavalry to the Valley. Though I only directed General Stuart to send a brigade - so your wishes in this respect were complied with - I also instructed General Hill to have a brigade in readiness to move this morning, and directed the quartermasters at Orange and Gordonsville to be prepared to transport it. Since the receipt of yours of 4 this morning, I have ordered the movement of the brigade of infantry, and directed the quartermaster's department to arrange the transportation