to be there and within the enemy's lines; but the weather has been so unfavorable for their operations that I fear the expedition will not meet with much success. In addition, the enemy will hear of the movement.

Are there any cattle in the western counties that could be procured? Please inform me when the railroad will be repaired or when I could expect communications with Longstreet will be opened, and whether any provisions can be obtained in that quarter more than he is likely to require.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE,

General.

WILMINGTON, January 5, 1864.

Colonel GORGAS:

My 30-pounder Parrott burst yesterday fighting the enemy at Lockwood's Folly, killing 1 man and wounding officer in charge. It was at third fire. This is all the Parrott gun I have. Hurry the others. All the guns I have seen lately are defective; should be tested and examined. Send this to General Cooper.

W. H. C. WHITING.

[First indorsement.]

Colonel GORGAS:

Can you not at once supply the wants of General Whiting as within? If you can, please do so.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

[Second indorsement.]

JANUARY 6, 1864.

General COOPER;

There are arms on the way to him, and I have asked Colonel Stevens for the guns known as "Long Tom," now on the defenses here.

J. GORGAS.

ORANGE COURT-HOUSE, January 6, 1864.

His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS:

One hundred and twenty-five cattle, 25 wagon loads hides, 125 mules, 200 prisoners captured in Hardy will reach Harrisonburg to-day.

R. E. LEE,

General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
January 6, 1864.

Major General J. A. EARLY,

Mount Jackson, Va.:

GENERAL: I have just received your letter of the 3rd instant. I very much regret the difficulties that beset your undertaking, and