W. H: Lytle to George C. Lee, August 13, 1863

[Capt. GEORGE LEE, Assistant Adjutant-General :]

CaPTAIN : Colonel Ray has just returned from Jasper. His adjutant reports verbally they saw on the opposite side of the river, at Shellmound, a rebel infantry force, estimated at from 400 to 600, with artillery. They captured 2 soldiers, with dispatches, which I have the honor to inclose; also brought in several refugees, 1 of whom, from Atlanta, is said to bea New Yorker, and very intelligent. I will send them forward as soon as possible.

Sent a patrol to Island Creek Ferry to-day in charge of Lieutenant Boal. r. B. secured there the inclosed Chattanooga Rebel of today.

There was a good deal of movement and stir about the island last evening. About 1 o’clock this a. m. I heard what I supposed to be the crash of the draw falling into the river. On visiting the pickets on the river, the sentries reported to have heard chopping and work epperctay with axes and other tools about the bridge. Everything this morning looks as it did before, however.

The Rice referred to in dispatches must have his headquarters near Anderson. Lieutenant Boal reports from Island Creek that Rice is patrolling the river, All quiet here.

respectfully,