HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field,near Atlanta, Ga., August 16, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER,

Cartersville:

Has nothing been heard of the cavalry sent out by General McCook! What was the occasion of the wire being interrupted! I have ordered a sufficient force to Allatoona in case of need, but the Etowah bridge is more important than Cartersville, and should you be threatened by superior force, move to the bridge, and all trains into Allatoona.

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major- General, Commanding.

CARTERSVILLE, GA., August 16, 1864.

Brigadier-General SMITH,

Via Resaca:

One of our scouting parties has just returned. I am satisfied that there is no considerable force below us, on the opposite side of the river. Everything is in good order here, and I feel sure that we are equal to any emergency that is likely to arise.

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

J. I. ALEXANDER,

Colonel, Commanding Post.

ALLATOONA, August 16, 1864.

Major- General SHERMAN:

No new of the cavalry or of the cattle has been received at this post.

J. E. TOURTELLOTTE,

Lieutenant- Colonel Fourth Minnesota Volunteers, Commanding.

HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 16, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER AT ALLATOONA:

What force have you at Allatoona, and what at the bridge!

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

ALLATOONA, August 16, 1864.

Major-General SHERMAN:

I have at this place 500 guns and 4 pieces of artillery. At the bridge across Allatoona Creek there are 70 guns.

J. E. TOURTELLOTTE,

Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.

HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 16, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER AT ALLATOONA:

Defend that place and those stores at all costs. Send me word if anything occurs, that I amy, if necessary, send you re- enforcements.

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major- General, Commanding.