HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
May 19, 1864.
[General JOHN M. PALMER:]
GENERAL: I arrived at the bridge and found General Garrard here and no appearance of any cavalry in the country. I posted the troops, and requested Garrard to use his cavalry to examine another ford or bridge reported near here. He is now absent. Rebel troops retreated by this road, as I found many articles (pots, kettles,&c.) thrown away. The bridge is a fine one and it seems to me strange why it was not destroyed by the rebels. I shall remain until I receive orders from you.
Respectfully,
R. W. JOHNSON.