Having felt great pride in this army the undersigned leaves it with much regret. He assures his brave comrades of his full appreciation of the high soldierly quanlities they have exhibited. Harmony of opinion and purpose has existed in all ranks. Amid events tending to produce gloom and despondency they have presented the rare spectacle of the constant improvement of all arms in efficiency and discipline. He offers them his best wishes for their future success. In leaving this command it is a source of great satisfaction to him that it devolve, upon the distinguished general chosen for it by the President, one who on so many bloody fields has proved himself worthy of such troops a constitute this army.

J. E. JOHNSTON,

General.

[31.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Russellville, December 23, 1863.

Brigadier General JOHN C. VAUGHN,

Commanding Brigade:

The commanding general desires that you will remove your command at once to Bull's Gap and take position there. You may proceed immediately upon your arrival there to construct shelters for your men for the winter.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. M. SORREL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[31.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Russellville, December 23, 1863.

Brigadier General R. B. VANCE,

Commanding:

By direction of Lieutenant General Longstreet I had the honor of communicating with you some days since, suggesting that you should take position at Newport as being a good point to cover your district and at the same time interrupt the enemy's foraging parties. The general suggested also that you should scout well toward Sevierville from that point. This position and course will do much to break up the enemy's foraging parties from Knoxville. I have not heard from you since my last letter, and now, by direction of General Longstreet, I have the honor to ask if you are prepared to carry out his suggestions. If so, please advise me as soon as possible.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. M. SORREL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[31.]

SPECIAL ORDERS,
HDQRS. JACKSON'S CAVALRY DIVISION, Numbers 104.
Clinton, Miss., December 23, 1863.

I. In obedience to Special Orders, No.-, dated headquarters Cavalry in Mississippi, Canton, December 20, 1863, Brigadier General George B. Cosby is hereby relieved from duty with the First Brigade of this division, and will at once report for orders to department headquarters.