KERNSTOWN, VA., November 20, 1864-1 a. m.

Brigadier-General RAWLINS,

Chief of Staff:

There has been none of the enemy's force within reach in my front for a distance of forty miles since the last advance of Early and his hasty retreat. The report in reference to Ealry's army having left the Valley entirely is somewhat contradictory. I will comply with the request of the general-in-chief as soon as I can definitely ascertain the true condition of affairs. Steps have been taken to ascertain the facts in the case.

P. H. SHERIDAN,

Major-General.

MUDDY BRANCH, November 20, 1864.

(Received 8.25 p. m.)

Colonel J. H. TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

All quiet. I will move at daylight.

Respectfully,

D. R. CLENDENIN,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

ALEXANDRIA, VA., November 20, 1864.

(Received 9.10 p. m.)

Colonel TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

The scouts sent out last evening have returned, bringing one prisoner. A report will be forwarded.

H. H. WELLS,

Colonel, &c.

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22ND ARMY CORPS,
November 20, 1864.

Colonel GANSEVOORT,

Commanding at Falls Church:

I wish you to send out a party along the line of railroad to Vienna, to see if it is in good running order. Please report its condition to-night.

Respectfully, yours,

C. C. AUGUR,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION,
November 20, 1864.

Brevet Brigadier-General DEVIN,

Commanding First Cavalry Division:

GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you move with your division, as soon as General Powell gets out of your way, to Front Royal. General Powell starts at 7 a. m., comes on to the Valley pike at Newtown, and moves, in connection with the Third Division, in the direc-