W. W. Oe Oy Dor to George C. Lee, August 18, 1863

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

CapTaIN : I am as yet unable tostate positively whether the force opposite has been increased or not, but hops to have accurate information to-night. Should they open on us with heavy ordnance, I have directed my regiments to retire behind the hill, where they will be sufficiently covered. Does the general commanding think it worth while, under all the circumstances, to complete the works on the hill and put them in shape ?

If there is any probability of our being ee Nise here long, or so long a time asto render it possible that we may be attacked, it would be well, I think. to have the portion of the works now occupied by Colonel Bradley’s brigade thoroughly policed, our guns mounted on the platforms in the redoubt and the series of works on the western face, and another lineof rifle-pits constructed, connecting the works on the face of the hill, next therailroad. It seems hardly worth while, however, to go to this trouble if a forward move is imminent.

I have had no reports from the Second Tennessee for a day or two, in violation of their instructions. Shall I send Ray up toward Jasper to-morrow ? Please instruct me as to this latter matter by telegraph.

very respectfully,