HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Rome, Ga., May 19, 1864.
Brigadier-General WIIIPPLE,

Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: One regiment of General Garrard s cavalry (One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Mounted Infantry) arrived at lii in. to-day at this place. The pontoons arrived about the same hour; hence I shall have two bridges in a few hours across the river. General Garrard s staff officer reports McPherson at Woodland. This makes it an easy matter for me to join the corps by the Kingston road. I have sent Captain Hall to report the state of affairs here at headquarters, and to ascertain whether or not this place is to be held by us. I would recommend it, and hope the force designated to occupy it will be sent here before I leave. This place should not be permitted to fall into the enemy s possession again. Captain Hall will not reach department headquarters before to-morrow, so I send this by Garrard s cavalry forces. The enemy destroyed considerable property before leaving, but the iron works are left in good condition. Johnston was retreating from Kingston yesterday and last night, so I have learned to-day.

Yours, very respectfully,

JEF. C. DAVIS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding Division.