HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, August 18, 1864-11 a. m.

General HOWARD:

Our telegraph wires are cut so often that it is prudent to have signal telegraph back as far as Allatoona. General Thomas can make stations back to Kenesaw. I wish you to have a station on the hill at Allatoona in connection with General Thomas' station on Kenesaw.

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

HOWARD'S HEADQUARTERS,

August 18, 1864.

General SHERMAN:

My chief signal officer will have an office opened at Allatoona at once.

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.

HOWARD'S HEADQUARTERS,

August 18, 1864.

Major-General SHERMAN:

Signal officers reports a column of infantry, nearly a division strong, moving from the works in front of the Twentieth Corps, moving north of the Tuner's Ferry road, and to their left, accompanied by some artillery.

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.

HOWARD'S HEADQUARTERS,

August 18, 1864.

General SHERMAN:

Following messages just received from signal officer:

1 P. M.

A column of troops, at least a brigade strong, just passed south along the enemy's line. The head of column had passed before I discovered it. They passed a point between me and the churches.

1.05 P. M.

A brigade of infantry has just passed in front of the fort, moving toward our right.

O. O. HOWARD,

Major-General.

HOWARD'S HEADQUARTERS,

August 18, 1864.

Major-General SHERMAN:

I have been along my entire line this a. m. Considerable artillery was developed by the demonstration, and a strong skirmish line throughout. Not many men can be seen in the main works in front of General Logan, but I do not think they have been removed. The division pre-