HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, Snake Creek Gap, May 12, 1864.

Major General GEORGE H. THOMAS,

Commanding Army of the Cumberland:

GENERAL: The general commanding is desirous that as much silence shall be preserved in the army as possible, and in order that this end may be attained he wishes the use of the bass drum entirely discontinued, also the practice or use of any band music or field music save the usual bugle calls. All cheering of bodies of men, except in battle, should also be dispensed with. You will please give the necessary orders in your command to continue in force until further orders,

I am, general, very respectfully, yours, &c.,

L. M. DAYTON,

Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Sugar Valley, May 12, 1864.

[General SHERMAN:]

GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit below copies of dispatches just received:

SIGNAL STATION OF OBSERVATION,

May 12, 1864-6.25 p. m.

Heavy wagon trains leaving Dalton going south; also trains on the road east of here.

FLOOK,

Lieutenant, Acting Signal Officer.

SIGNAL STATION OF OBSERVATION,

May 12, 1864-6.50 p. m.

Road leading from Dalton full of wagons moving south; the rear of train not yet left town.

H. R. FLOOK,

Lieutenant.

I am, general, very respectfully, yours,

GEO. H. THOMAS,

Major-General, Commanding Department.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-12.45 p. m.

Major-General SCHOFIELD:

Large masses of the enemy's infantry are marching toward my left; already skirmishing with the cavalry pickets.

Very respectfully,

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.

[MAY 12, 1864]-2.30 p. m.

General HOWARD:

I am at Villanow and start for McPherson. Signal me the appearances from all points in your possession. Villanow will be held by Garrard until we get pt [past].

SHERMAN,

Major-General.