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DECATUR, [March] 25, 1865.

Brigadier General W. D. WHIPPLE:

Since arrival here I have ascertained almost positively that reports of General Doolittle and Colonel Conrad that Forrest's force is in the valley is a mistake. A few only of his men have been scouting, probably conscripting. One brigade only of Roddey's this side of Moulton, not to exceed 650, scattered, conscripting, murdering, burning cotton and houses of Union men. Roddey himself has gone to Tuscaloosa with most of his force. My scouts returned from the mountains bringing request from Union men and deserters that they may be enlisted for one year to serve in Alabama. One or two companies might be formed and attached to First Alabama Cavalry. Forrest reported at West Point, Miss., on 17th; his forces near there and Meridian about under Chalmers and Jackson. Colonel Patterson temporarily absent making speeches in opposition to Governor Brown. Information just received from woman at picket-line, whom our scout says is reliable, that a cavalry force of ours, which the rebels estimate at 3,000, is at Sugar, five miles from Moulton, and that Roddey's courier-line is removed.

R. S. GRANGER,

Brigadier-General.

(Same to Major B. H. Polk.)