Put forth therefore every possible exertion to attain this end.

Should you get him to retreating give him no peace.
U.S.GRANT, Lieutenant-General.
CITY POINT, VA., December 5, 1864.
MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tenn.
Is there not danger of Forrest moving down the Cumberland to where he can cross it?
It seems to me whilst you should be getting up your cavalry as rapidly as possible to look after Forrest, Hood should be attacked where he is.

Time strengthens him in all possibility as much as it does you.
U.S.GRANT, Lieutenant-General.
CITY POINT, VA., December 6, 1864--4 P.M.
MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tenn.
Attack Hood at once and wait no longer for a remnant of your cavalry.

There is great danger of delay resulting in a campaign back to the Ohio River.
U.S.GRANT, Lieutenant-General.
CITY POINT, VA., December 8, 1864 .-- 8.30 P.M.
MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tenn.
Your dispatch of yesterday received.

It looks to me evident the enemy are trying to cross the Cumberland River, and are scattered.