C. Goddard to George H. Thomas, August 20, 1863

Maj. Gen. GEoRGE H. THomas, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps:

GENERAL: The general commanding directs you to instruct General Reynolds to reconnoiter the river opposite Shellmound, with a view to establishing batteries on this side of the river to command the railroad at that point, and thus prevent the running of trains. He is informed that the railroad at that point runs under the rocks on the bank of the river, and that they could not pass if we could establish a battery opposite to command the road. If he finds it practicable, direct him to send a brigade and a battery to the river for that

urpose, and in any event to report the result of his reconnaissance. he general further desires General Reynolds to cover the mouth of ae Creek, that we may make it a crossing-point should we so esire, I am, sir,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,