help if you were to echelon across the valley to the east of us. I think you could do it safety. In that event I can inform General Howard at once by signal, and Wood can menace them also on the right. If you prefer it, your command could file with safety along the eastern base of the ridge, and form in echelon afterward according to your judgment.

JOHN NEWTON,

Brigadier-General.

P. S.-I think the sooner it is done the better, unless you have some information to the contrary. Please let me know.

J. N.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO,
In the Field, May 9, 1864-12.30 p. m.

Brigadier General JOHN NEWTON,

Commanding, &c.:

GENERAL: I am directed by Major-General Schofield to reply to your dispatch of 11.30 a. m. that he is already moving down the valley in echelon, as you suggested.

I am, your obedient servant,

WM. M. WHERRY,

Major and Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO,
In the Field, May 9, 1864-1.45 p. m.

General JOHN NEWTON,

Commanding Division, Fourth Corps:

GENERAL: Will you do me the favor to inform me frequently of any movement of the enemy on my line to be seen from your position. I should like to have all the information you possess as to the enemy's strength, position, &c.

Your obedient servant,

J. M. SCHOFIELD,

Major-General.

IMMEDIATE.] HEADQUARTERS,

May 9, 1864.

Brigadier-General NEWTON:

GENERAL: I am compelled to send two regiments of infantry to support McCook toward Varnell's as well as to protect my left. Please send down into the valley as many men as you can spare to act as my reserve; can't you communicate with me by signal? I have an officer here and will try it.

Respectfully,

J. M. SCHOFIELD,

Major-General.

[Indorsement.]

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
May 9, 1864.

General SCHOFIELD:

I had already send General Wagner's brigade to make a connection with your right. Is not that as well? I have but one signal officer, who is communicating with Howard.