also wishes you to express your views as to the desirability of retaining the old line of outposts. He is of the opinion that perhaps some better line could be taken nearer New Berne and support. You will therefore give this subject a careful consideration, and if you come to any conclusion regarding a change, suggest it. You will be careful to state particularly what number of troops of all arms you consider necessary to reoccupy the old lines or to hold any new line. In a few days the general will be able to re- enforce you to some extent. The general wishes particularly to caution you to husband the strength of your cavalry, for the y have a deal of work to do for their numbers. A mail goes north to- night at 4 o'clock.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. JUDSON,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
February 8, 1864- 2. 45 p. m. (Received 3. 10 p. m.)

Major- General HALLECK:

Scouts from the Shenandoah report Early encamped near Mount Jackson on Friday, at noon. His force consists of the two brigades of infantry heretofore reported and Rosser's and Imboden's cavalry.

JOHN SEDGWICK,

Major- General, Commanding.

(Copy to General Kelley.)

GARNETT'S MOUNTAIN, February 8, 1864- 12 m.

Major- General NEWTON, and

CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER,

Army of the Potomac:

All quiet. Enemy's pickets in old position. Artillery gone from railroad bridge. No other change.

WIGGINS,

Signal Officer.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
February 8, 1864- 12. 20 p. m.

Captain PAINE:

Has any movement of the enemy been observed to- day!

NORTON.

STONY MOUNTAIN, February 8, 1864- 1 p. m.

Captain NORTON,

Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac

The enemy are digging rifle- pits along the river near Morton's Ford.

CASTLE,

Signal Officer.