depending on information to arrive. Please have them in condition to move at short notice. This trip will not delay your movement up the Tennessee.

Yours, &c.,

M. BRAYMAN,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

COLUMBUS, KY.,

March 23, 1864.

Brigadier-General BRAYMAN:

Captain Williams' scouts, just arrived, confirm the news. Forrest at Trenton last night, 8,000 strong. Colonel Freeman's [Faulner's?] regiment has the advance; is 10 miles this side of Trenton, advancing on Union City. This scout confirms Colonel Hawkins' dispatch. Will leave with train immediately.

J. H. ODLIN,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[MARCH 23, 1864.]

Colonel HAWKINS,

Union City:

Keep a good watch, and given them a fight. Captain Williams' scouts confirm your reports. I leave immediately with train. Have your baggage ready to load on cars.

J. H. ODLIN,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

PADUCAH, March 23, 1864.

(Received 8.40 a. m., 24th.)

Brigadier General M. BRAYMAN,

Commanding District of Cairo:

I feel from every indication that I would be much safer if I had additional force. I have information outside of your dispatch this day that satisfies me that there is a settled policy to take this place.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. G. HICKS,

Colonel, Commanding Post.

COLUMBUS, KY.,

March 23, 1864.

General BRAYMAN:

Captain Odlin just left on train, 9 p. m. I have sent out all my scouts. It may be possible that Freeman [Faulkner?] has turned to the left and gone to Fort Pillow. Will telegraph you all news of importance promptly.

I. H. WILLIAMS,

Captain and District Provost-Marshal.