HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
July 31, 1864-8.30 p. m.
Major-General SHERMAN:
I do not know of a better cavalry commander in my army than Garrard. He is an excellent administrative officer, and I have no doubt you will find on inquiry that his ordered from Stoneman were indefinite. Garrard is much more judicious than Kilpatrick, who can knock up his horses as rapidly as any man I know. U think if you will bear with Garrard you will find in a short time he will be the best cavalry commander you have.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major-General.