RINGGOLD, GA., May 12, 1864.

Major-General HOWARD:

The force at my disposal will not exceed 300 men. Commanding officer at Parker's Gap has been notified as directed this morning.

H. K. MILWARD,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

MAY 12, 1864-6.45 p. m.

Lieutenant-Colonel MILWARD,

Ringgold:

Your dispatch received. I have sent a regiment of cavalry and a section of artillery to your assistance.

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-12.20 p. m.

Brigadier-General NEWTON,

Commanding Second Division:

Two of General Wood's brigades have been ordered to march at once to your support.

By order of Major-General Howard:

J. S. FULLERTON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-5.45 p. m.

General WOOD:

You will occupy your present position to-night. As soon as General Stoneman returns to the position he left to-day you will move your command to Tunnel Hill, occupying the point indicated to you last night.

By order of Major-General Howard:

J. S. FULLERTON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS,
Tunnel Hill, May 12, 1864-5.30 p. m.

Major-General STONEMAN:

I have just ordered Colonel Butler, Fifth Indiana Cavalry, to move to Ringgold and to aid the forces at that place if defense became necessary. The rebels are more likely to try Parker's Gap. The large columns have returned to Dalton. My opinion is that the whole thing is a diversion, though a raid may be attempted.

Very respectfully,

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.