HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864.
General THOMAS:
General Howard reports an unusual movement of troops out of Atlanta to his right. I am very anxious to hear the substance of Colonel Brownlow’s story. I am told by General Barry’s aide that he saw Colonel Brownlow at your camp. I cannot understand Brownlow’s return if McCook had surrendered.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
August 1, 1864-9 p. m.
Major-General SHERMAN:
Colonel Brownlow reports that McCook destroyed twelve miles of the Macon railroad, and a bridge over the White Water, longer than the Chattahoochee bridge. He also destroyed over 500 wagons, Hood’s Hardee’s, and other headquarters wagons among them. Unfortunately he then turned back on his old route and commenced to destroy the West Point road, when he was attacked on the 29th [30th], near Newnan, by infantry and cavalry in overwhelming numbers, surrounded, and all who did not cut their way through were either killed or captured. There are nearly 500 now in Marietta, and Brownlow thinks many more will find their way in. The First Wisconsin was cut off near Campbellton, and returned two days ago. I will send you his report in the morning.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major-General.