HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
August 17, 1864.
Major- General SHERMAN:
The report of General Kimball that the enemy seemed to be massing on his left, as if with the intention of attacking him, does not seem to be well founded. General Stanley reports that he cannot perceive any evidence of the enemy, though he observes more than the usual activity along their lines.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.

HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, August 17, 1864.
General THOMAS:
I now have positive and official information that General Wheeler has gone up into East Tennessee beyond Spring Place. We will repair all damages to railroad and telegraph to- night. I will not move our infantry, but break the Macon road all to pieces with our cavalry to- morrow night. Therefore be active and demonstrate against Atlanta to occupy the front and make believe we will attack them in their trenches during to- morrow and next day.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major- General, Commanding.
(Same to Generals Schofield and Howard.)