moving out of Memphis, as they suppose, to re-enforce us. This will hold Forrest there. Now will be a good time for the raid from Decatur on Opelika. It should consist of not over 2,500 cavalry. No wagons or artillery, or at most a section, and should move first on Pillow, at Oxford or Talladega, and then pass him rapidly, cross the Tallapoosa, and break up the road. If you agree with me I will order it now.

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
July 2, 1864

Major-General SHERMAN:

I think now would be a good time for the expedition to Opelika if you have any good officers to place in command. I have heard that Roddey also had moved west of Tuscumbia, evidently attracted in that direction by the movements of Smith.

GEO. H. THOMAS.

Major-General

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
In the Field, near Kenesaw Mountain, July 2 1864.

Major General O. O. HOWARD,

Commanding Fourth Army Corps:

GENERAL: Brigadier-General King's division to-night moves into a position to be vacated by Major-General McPherson's troops. The major-general commanding directs that you to-night, after dark, take up the position indicated to you yesterday, now occupied by General King's division and a portion of General McPherson's troops, your left resting on the Dallas and Marietta road.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. D. WHIPPLE,

Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
In the Field, near Kenesaw Mountain, July 2, 1864.

Major General J. M. PALMER,

Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps:

GENERAL: Major-General McPherson reports himself ready to move to-night. You will, therefore, please direct General King to move his troops this evening after dark and take up the position pointed out yesterday by the major-general commanding. Major-General Howard will be directed to relieve Brigadier-General King's division.

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

WM. D. WHIPPLE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

2 R R-VOL XXXVIII, PT V