is done I will advance a strong skirmish line to feel the enemy. It seems to me useless to attempt anything until I have a connection with Hooker, who is now too far. I respectfully await your instructions.

Respectfully, &c.,

J. NEWTON,

Brigadier-General.

P. S.-The enemy opened artillery on Hooker.

J. N.

JULY 20, 1864.

General WHIPPLE:

I am ordered to report directly to General Thomas by General Howard. I was ready to attack, when orders were received taking Wood away. I am relieving Hazen's brigade, and have sent to find the whereabouts of General Hooker, on my right. As soon as these are done I will advance a strong skirmish line of three regiments, in order to feel and ascertain what I have in front. My force is 3,200 bayonets.

Respectfully, &c.,

JOHN NEWTON,

Brigadier-General, Commanding Division.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND,
July 20, 1864-10.30 a. m.

Brigadier General J. NEWTON:

GENERAL: Your dispatch of 8.30 o'clock is received. I am with Major-General Hooker, who informs me that General Ward's division has gone into position between your right and General Geary's left,and closes up that interval. Prepare your command for an advance, and move forward in conjunction with General Hooker's troops. I will be over to see you in a few minutes on the Buck Head and Atlanta road.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. H. THOMAS,

Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND,
July 20, 1864-3.45 p. m.

Brigadier General JOHN NEWTON:

GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that yo hold the ground you occupy at present and strengthen your position until General Hooker comes up with you.

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

ROBT. H. RAMSEY,

Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.

NEAR HOWELL'S BRIDGE, GA.,

July 20, 1864-1.30 p. m.

[General THOMAS:]

GENERAL: I sent you a note about half an hour since, but fixed the hour wrong, my watch having stopped. Matters remain here about as