HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
May 16, 1864-2.15 a.m.
Major-General SCHOFIELD,
Commanding, &c.:
GENERAL: Your dispatch of midnight is to hand, and the general commanding says it’s very well, and to secure a strong flank on the river, keeping your one division in reserve. General Garrard is in possession of the bridge over Oostanaula, eight miles this side of Rome (at Farmer’s). General Sweeny has pontoon laid and a good lodgment on the south bank at Lay’s Ferry, and as soon as our line is shortened so the force can be spared, I will cross the river below Resaca in force. News from the East continues very good. Dispatch to-night says Phil. Sheridan has broken both railroads between Hanover Junction and Richmond; has fought, defeated, and killed Major-General Stuart, broken the other road south, captured outer line of works at Richmond, and made junction with Butler; also destroyed Lee’s supply depot.
I am, general, yours, respectfully,
L. M. DAYTON,
Aide-de-Camp.