keep on the south side of the Clinch. Use your discretion in handling your troops, and if the enemy is likely to pass you, give General Gillem early information. If you can, have Dillard at Cumberland Gap; send force to Tazewell. Success to you.

J. AMMEN,

Brigadier-General of Volunteers.

KNOXVILLE, September 15, 1864.

General TILLSON,

Strawberry Plains:

The rebels crossed the Clinch two miles east of Clinton last night - 2,000, with artillery - and captured 30 wagons from us near Moore's Gap this morning at 5, and are moving up the valley. Forward to General Tillson without delay.

J. AMMEN,

Brigadier-General of Volunteers.

KNOXVILLE, September 15, 1864-12. 40 p. m.

General TILLSON,

Strawberry Plains:

They seem to be going toward Loy's Cross-Roads.

J. AMMEN,

Brigadier-General of Volunteers.

KNOXVILLE, TENN., September 15, 1864.

Brigadier-General TILLSON:

A dispatch just received from Colonel Melton states that a prisoner, captured by a scouting party from his regiment, says that Williams' DIVISION, with three pieces of artillery, crossed the Clinch last night en route for Tazewell, where Wheeler, who is behind, with his main force, intends joining them; that they intend going into Virginia. I have not seen General Ammen, who is out on the line, and I send this dispatch on my own responsibility.

W. W. DEANE,

Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.

HDQRS. SECOND Brigadier, FOURTH DIV., 23rd ARMY CORPS,
Knoxville, Tenn., September 15, 1864.

Lieutenant-Colonel SHANNON,

Commanding First U. S. Colored Heavy Artillery:

You will leave the 600 men, or more, of your command ready to move immediately, prepared with rations and ammunition, as directed by General Tillson.

By command of Brigadier-General Tillson:

W. W. DEANE,

Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.

25 R R - VOL XXXIX, PT II