HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-3.45 p. m.

Major-General SHERMAN:

The rebels marched out a column of cavalry, infantry, and artillery-about 10,000 strong-just east of the fort on Potato Hill. Another column, composed of cavalry, footmen, and some wagons, passed up the Dalton and Cleveland road a little past 9 o'clock this a. m. I sent the two brigades of Wood on Tunnel Hill to Newton's left. After making a display in front of Newton and Wood the larger force returned eastward and finally toward Dalton. The raiding party may be aiming at Cleveland or Ringgold. Stoneman sent a portion of his force toward Lee's house to head off the party. I have also sent a regiment of cavalry and a section of artillery direct to Ringgold to aid in defending that place. The troops at Cleveland, Julian's, McDonald's [McDaniel's], and Parker's Gaps were noticed to be on the lookout. The whole was undoubtedly a diversion, as I suspected at first. I delayed General Geary through misinformation, having been told by a staff officer that he had not left camp. As soon, however, as I was satisfied of the rebel's intentions I sent him word to go on.

Very respectfully,

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-11 a. m.

Lieutenant Colonel N. L. ANDERSON,

Sixth Ohio Infantry, Commanding Post, Cleveland:

A rebel force of cavalry, with some infantry, passed Varnell's Station at about 9 this a. m., moving toward Cleveland on the Dalton and Cleveland road; they had some wagons. Be on the lookout for them. Notify them at Julian's and McDaniel's Gaps.

By command of Major-General Howard:

J. S. FULLERTON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-11 a. m.

COMMANDING OFFICER,

At Ringgold:

Notify the commander at Parker's Gap that a rebel force of cavalry and little infantry, with wagons, passed Varnell's Station at 9 this a. m., moving toward the gap or Cleveland. Order him to be on the lookout. By command of Major-General Howard:

J. S. FULLERTON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

TUNNEL HILL, May 12, 1864-3.30 p. m.

COMMANDING OFFICER,

Ringgold:

How large a force have you? Look out well on the Varnell's Station road. Hold the gap at all hazards;the force of enemy approaching not deemed large.

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General, Commanding.