large number of negroes; has been detained eight or nine days in crossing the Potomac, but heard nothing of Burnside's moving from Annapolis to the front. It is reported here that Sigel is at Strasburg with a heavy force. His force while at Winchester is estimated by citizens at 9,000. Mr. Webb reports 60,000 men under General Hooker at Harper's Ferry. I will send you something definite to-morrow or next day by young Crane. Two other members of the Maryland cavalry (Colonel Johnson) have just come up; one has been to Washington, and one to Philadelphia. They promise to go immediately to your headquarters, and can give you much valuable information.

In great haste, your obedient servant,

THOMAS D. RANSOM.

Crane leaves Luray for your headquarters this morning.

ORANGE COURT-HOUSE, May 4, 1864.

General BRAXTON BRAGG:

Reports from our lookouts seem to indicate that the enemy is in motion. The present direction of his column is to our right. General Imboden reports enemy advancing from Winchester up the valley with wagons, beef-cattle, &c.

R. E. LEE.

RICHMOND, VA., May 4, 1864.

General GEORGE E. PICKET,

Petersburg, Va.:

Turn over your command to the next officer in rank and proceed with your division staff to Hanover Junction where your division is being assembled; one brigade is there, the others will follow.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

WELDON, N. C., May 4, 1864.

(Received 5th.)

General S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General:

Was it intended in the order for the movement of troops from this department that the cavalry and artillery should go also? If so, in what proportion?

G. T. BEAUREGARD,

General, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES,
May 5, 1864.

Respectfully returned to Adjutant-General. He should send one-half the artillery and such cavalry as can be spared to Petersburg, moving all by dirt road.

For General Bragg:

JNO. B. SALE,

Colonel and Military Secretary.