HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
August 16, 1864.
Major- General SHERMAN:
If you think a cavalry raid can destroy the Macon road sufficiently to force Hood to retreat, I think now would be a good time to send against it.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
August 16, 1864.
Major- General SHERMAN:
General Kilpatrick reports that he forced the enemy back into his camp near the railroad, five miles above Fairburn Station; destroyed the station and public buildings, telegraph and railroad for about three miles. Jackson’s division had thus far refused to give him battle He anticipates an attempt will be made to prevent his return this morning, and feels confident he can destroy Jackson, provided cavalry alone meets him.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major- General.

HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, August 16, 1864.
General THOMAS:
The news from General Kilpatrick is first rate. He has acted so as to show the enemy that he will fight. I do believe he, with his own and General Garrard’s cavalry, could ride right round Atlanta and mash the Macon road all to pieces, but I don’t want to risk our cavalry. I don’t fear the enemy trying to cut off his return. General Schofield’s position is such that infantry will not leave their lines to go down to Camp Creek.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major- General, Commanding.

HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, August 16, 1864.
General THOMAS:
I have sent a courier to General Kilpatrick to make inquiries about the country about Mount Gilead and Fairburn Station, and will hear by daylight. I do believe Hood has but little provisions, and the facilities for repairs do not compare with ours. Cavalry could make in a single night breaks of ten or fifteen miles which I think would lessen his hold of Atlanta. Also, the position of our inanity would make a cavalry raid from our right flank little hazardous.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major- General, Commanding.