Once started up the valley they ought to be followed until we get possession of the Virginia Central Railroad.

If General Hunter is in the field, give Sheridan direct command of the 6th corps and cavalry division.

All the cavalry, I presume, will reach Washington in the course of to-morrow.
U.S.GRANT, Lieutenant-General.
The President in some way or other got to see this dispatch of mine directing certain instructions to be given to the commanders in the field, operating against Early, and sent me the following very characteristic dispatch: OFFICE U.S.MILITARY TELEGRAPH, WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D.C., August 3, 1864.
Cypher.

6 P.M., LT.

GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.
I have seen your despatch in which you say, "I want Sheridan put in command of all the troops in the field, with instructions to put himself south of the enemy, and follow him to the death.