I would urge, however, if I did not know that you are already fully alive to the importance of it, prompt action.

Sherman may be looked for in the neighborhood of Goldsboro' any time from the 22d to the 28th of February; this limits your time very materially.
"If rolling-stock is not secured in the capture of Wilmington, it can be supplied from Washington.

A large force of railroad men have already been sent to Beaufort, and other mechanics will go to Fort Fisher in a day or two.

On this point I have informed you by telegraph.
"U.

S.GRANT, Lieutenant-General.
"MAJOR-GENERAL J.M.