III. Lieutenant Colonel J. C. Pemberton, C. S. Artillery, will report to Major General Robert Ransom, jr., commanding Department of Richmond, for assignment to the command of the artillery defenses of his department.

* * * * * * *

By command of the Secretary of War:

JNO. WITHERS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

MAY 12, 1864.

Honorable J. A. SEDDON,

Richmond:

One brigade is now over the river. Two others will be held to move at a moment's notice.

R. F. HOKE,

Major-General.

MAY 12, 1864-10 o'clock.

General BRAGG:

I have promptly answered every dispatch from you. Cavalry and infantry have gone toward Chesterfield Court-House. I will do all in my power to destroy the enemy, but think prudence should be used on account of this position.

R. F. HOKE,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS COMMAND,
May 12, 1864-9 p.m.

General BRAXTON BRAGG,

Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: The following dispatch just received:

NEAR FALLING CREEK BRIDGE, MR. GATES' HOUSE, May 12, 1864-7.40 p.m.

GENERAL: Citizens and couriers on the Chesterfield and Richmond road report that the enemy, about 3,000 strong, passed through Chesterfield Court-House at about 1 o'clock to-day and took by-roads leading to the Brock Rock road. This road is neither the direct route to Richmond nor the coal-fields, but each place can be approached by it. It is, however, the most direct route to the Danville railroad. The courier reports to citizens that he stood in the woods and counted their force. It consisted or infantry, cavalry, and artillery.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. C. HASKELL,

Lieutenant-Colonel.

R. F. HOKE,

Major-General.

MAY 12, 1864-10.30 p.m.

General BRAGG,

Richmond:

The enemy, consisting of 3,000 cavalry, with six howitzers, passed Chesterfield Court-House at from 3 to 6 o'clock this evening for Bellona Arsenal, on the Danville road. From there they may go to Richmond on the river road.

R. F. HOKE,

Major-General.