HEADQUARTERS, February 18, 1864

Savannah, February 18, 1864.

Respectfully forwarded to department headquarters.

I concur in the recommendation of Colonel Robertson that Major Howard’s battalion be disbanded as soon as troops for State service can be organized for the protection of the Government property at Columbus under the recent act of Congress, as reported troops for the purpose recommended will soon be available in large numbers.

J. F. GILMER, Major-General, Second in Command.