TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 42 (Part III) AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1893 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B 4~2~ E. ~4t/ (I, b THE GIFT OF Title Page Page 1 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL IRECORDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF The Hon. DANIEL S. LAMONT, Secretary of War, BY MAJ. GEORGE B. DAVIS, U. S. A., MR. LESLIE J. PERRY MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY, Board of Publication. SERIES IVOLUME XLIII~ THREE PARTS. PART lUCORRESPONDENCE, ETC. WASIIINGTOIN: GOYERN3IENT PRINTING OFFICE, 1898 Page 2 Page 3 PAIRT 111.VOL. XLII. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING TO OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLiNA, FROM OCTOBER 1, 1864, TO DECEMBER 31, 1864.* UNIOIN COIRIRIESPONDEINCiE, ETC. WAR DEPARTMENT, October 1, 18642 p. m. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT Commanding Armies of the United States, City Point: The following has been received at the War Department from the Quartermaster-General: QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, September 27, 1864. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: A large quantity of steam afl(l other water transportation has been collected in the waters of the Chesapeake in order to be feady for any sudden general move- ment of troops. The expense is great, and I have therefore to ask whether, in view of the late successes in the Shenandoah Valley, it will be prudent to reduce this transportation to what may be necessary for current wants and supplies of the troops operating on the James River. I am, & c., M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. The Secretary of War has directed me to refer this communication t~ you for your advice to the Department thereupon. JAS. A. HARDIE, Colonel, Inspector- General U. S. Army. CITY POINT, October 1, 186110 a. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, (Received 6 P. in.) Washington, D. C.: The enemy assaulted General Butlers line north of the James River threetimesyesterdayafternoon,andwererepulsedeachtime,General Butler reports, with heavy loss. Late in the evening Potters divisioll, Ninth Corps, whilst moving to get to the left of Warren, near Poplar Spring Church, was vigorously assaulted by a superior force and driven back until re-enforced by Griffins division, when the enemy were checked, General Meade thinks, with heavy loss. Potter lost from his For Correspondence, etc., from August 1, 1S64, to September 30, 1864, see Part IL (3 Page 4 4 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C CHAP. LIV. division a considerable number killed, wounded, and captured. The enemy are now threatening our left in considerable force. Our line extends full two miles west of the Weldon railroad with the left turned back. The troops intrenched themselves during the night. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18648 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I forward dispatches* from Generals Parke, Hancock, and signal offi- cer. From them you will see the enemy had not left Parkes front at last report, and that they are being re-enforced this morning. From the deserters statement I feel confirmed in the view expressed last evening that I have two divisions in the lines against me, and two meeting my attack on the left. Part of these in the lines were or will be sent to the point threatened. 1 am awaiting a report from Warren and Parke, and Gregg, as to the reconnaissances ordered this morning. Parke and Warren were ordered to advance if they deemed it practi- cable, and the substance of General Butlers dispatch sent to them. If I advance I will send up Hancocks division, and put in all the troops I can get hold of. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18649.20 a. rn. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I send you a dispatch from provost-marshal indicating four divisions in my front.t 1 also forward a report from Warren,t just received, indi- cating the enemy not only in force in his front, but menacing him. This may be policy. I have ordered iMiotts division to the left; as soon as lie reaches there I will assume the offensive. This leaves the line from the Appomattox to the Weldon raikoad to be held by the divis- ions of Hancock and the colored troops, less than 15,000. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, TA., October 1, 1864. (Received 10.30 a. in.) Major-General MEADE: I start in a few minutes for General Butlers headquarters. Dis- patches directed to Dccl) Bottom will reach me. There is one regiment of new troops here assigned to you that might be ordered out and put in the line. You will be able to judge best as to the propriety of further offensive operations. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. See Hancock to Humplireys, 7 a. in.; Parke to Humplireys, 5.15 a. in., and Fulton to Fisher, 6.45 a. in., pp. 11, 25, 9. See l3abcock to Meade, beginningDeserter from Sixtieth Alab. ma, p. 8~ ~ Warren to Ilumplireys, 8 ~, in., p. l Page 5 CHAP. LIT.] COI~kESPONDENCE, nTO.UNION. 5 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 186411.30 a. m. Liduteliant-General GRANT, Deep Bottom: I send two dispatches,* just received, for your information. 1 have no doubt Wilcox and Heth are in front of Warren and Parke, and that part, if not all, of Mahories, will be there to-day. As soon as Mott gets up we will try them again. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. JUNCTION YARINA AND NEW MARKET [ROADS], October 1, 1864. Major-General MEADE: Prisoners have been captnred here from Heths division. General Butler is of the opinion that it has gone back, however. You may now correct and strengthen your line a!id advance no farther unless a very favorable chance presents itself. A reconnaissance of two brigades of infantry and Kautzs cavalry is now out on the Central road and proba- bly at this time within five miles of Richmond. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Globe Tavern, October 1, 18642.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Deep Bottom or City Point: Ayres, this morning at 8 a. in., repulsed the attack made by the enemy. Since then Crawfords pickets, on the Weldon railroad, have been felt and the signal officer has seen the enemy filing into their works across and to the right of this road. Prisoners and deserters report positively Wilcox, ileth, and part of Mahone as present; also bodies of dismounted cavalry, Dearings brigade, and perhaps other portions of Hamptons command. Gregg, who was ordered up to Warrens left, on withdrawing, was attacked. He repulsed the attack, and is now ordered to fight their cavalry as long as they show fight, and then to join us or send such parts as he can spare. One of the prisoners told me he had seen a column of Ninth Corps men going into Petersburg, said to be 700 in number, and I fear from what I hear it is true. They were taken when Potter was driven back. Motts division is now arriving by rail and going forward. I shall see Warren and Parke and then determine what I will do, being most desirous to attack unless I should not deem it judicious to do so. It is raining hard and roads east of Weldon railroad getting bad. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. * See Crawford to Humphreys, 9.25 a. in., p. 22, and Babcock to Huinplireys, be- ginningOne lieutenant, & c., p. 9 Page 6 3 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. tt~. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18643.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The following has just been received: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 1, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following dispatch from the plank road station is respectfully forwarded: 1.30 P.M. A body of infantry has just disappeared in the woods on the right and to the west of the large fort west of the Weidon railroad. They came from our left on the Weldon railroad, apparently from Warrens old front. The head of the column was not visible on account of the rain. Saw about 1,000 of the column; in its rear 400 or 500 stragglers followed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER. Major and Chief Signal Officer. S. WILLIAMS, A8sistant Adjutant- General. (Copy to General Meade.) CITY POINT, VA., October 1,1864. Major-General MEADE: The movements reported in General Crawfords front would indicate that the enemy had felt there this morning to see if they could strip that part of their line. Finding they could, they have re-enforeed their right from there this evening. I think Crawford should be directed to push out in the morning directly down the railroad, leaving but a picket-line in his rear, and either make the enemy hold that part of his line strongly or go through. Hancock ought to do the same thing on his front. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQTARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18647.30 p. m. Respectfully referred to Brigadier-General Crawford. Generals Parke and Warren are ordered to attack early to-morrow morning. General Crawford will watch the enemy in his front and take advantage of any opportunity that may present itself in conformity with previous instructions, either to attack or maneuver so as to com- pel the enemy to keep a force in his front. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Globe Tavern, October 1, 18647 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: General Motts division did not reach the scene of operations till near 6 p. m.that is, the last brigade; the first got there a little before 4 Page 7 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESi~ONDENCB, ETC.UNION. 7 there was considerable delay in getting the cars for them. This made it so late that, in connection with the weather, no movement was made. The enemy made no demonstration, after Ayres repulsing them, till 5 p. in., when Gregg was attacked, with what result .1 have not heard yet. Prisoners were yesterday taken from Andersons brigade, of Fields division, over sixty of them, proving the presence of that brigade in addition to Wilcox, Heth, and possibly part of Mahone, leaving the balance of Mahone and Johnson to hold the intrenchments. There has been some firing about the Strong house, feeling, I presume, to see if we hold our lines. I have given orders to Parke and Warren to advance at daylight to-morrow and endeavor to effect a lodgment on the Boyd- ton plank road. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Globe Tavern, October 1, 18648 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: You have inisapprehended the information as to Crawfords front. The enemy first felt his pickets and then were seen to man the rifle-pits and works in his front, which they had before abandoned, probably to take part in the attack on Ayres. Crawfords instruc- tions are to watch their movements and to advance; if he sees any weakening of their lines to attack, otherwise to threaten. As his force only consists of a picket-line and two new nudrilled regiments, I directed him to take one of Ferreros brigades of colored troops, holding the lines to his right. These instructions he has for to-morrow, and are, I think, in conformity with the views expressed in your telegram just received. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 1, 1864. Major-General MEADE: I did [not ~?] understand the movements of the enemy in Crawfords front. I thought they first threatened our left. Have you heard the result of the attack on Greggs cavalry yet ~ U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 186410.15 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I send you a dispatch* just received from General Gregg. The Davis house, where he now is, [isi about three miles south and west from here, on the Yaughan road. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. * See Gregg to Humplireys, 6.30 p. in., p. 29 Page 8 8 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1 186 Colonel BATCHELDER, a. m. Chief Quartermaster: No cars have arrived yet to take Motts troops. Call on the quarter- master at City Point a~aiu to send theni forward as fast as they can be got ready. This delay is unpardonable. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- Ueneral and Chief of & aff. Telegraph to Gencral Parkes headquarters and advise him what is done. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 1864. (Received 12 in.) Major-General HUMPHREYS: Three trains of cars are now at Hancocks Station and near General Motts headquarters; others are to follow. I have sent Colonel Peirce to superintend the loading and bringing of them forwar~1 It. N. iBATCHELDEIt, Colonel and Chief Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, Major-General HUMPHREYS, October 1, 1864. Headquarters Fifth Army 6orjps: There are forty-seven cars in the three trains; another of twelve is to follow. Colonel P~irce reports that the troops are being sent for- ward with all possible dispatch. It. N. BATCHELDUI, Colonel and Chief Quartermaster, Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Major-General HUMPHREYS: October 1, 1864. Colonel Peirce reports that the last of the troops left Hancocks Station at 3 p. m. It. N. BATCHELDER, Colonel and Chief Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 1864. General MEADE: Deserter from Sixtieth Alabama, Gracies brigade, Johnsons division, canie in this morning; states that Johnsons and Mahones divisions are all the troops now holding the lines from the Appomattox to nea Page 9 CHAP. LIT.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 9 the Weldon railroad; that all of Heths and Wilcoxs divisions are on the right. Informant thought all of Ilokes and Fields divisions have gone to Early or Chaffins Bluff. Prisoners from the cavalry represent General Dearings brigade of W. H. F. Lees division. Have a corn- l)lete organization of the enemy~s cavalry, which I will forward this a. m. J. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 1, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Star: GENERAL: One lieutenant and twenty-seven men, prisoners of war, have just been received from the headquarters of the Fifth Army Corps. They were captured last evening arid this morning. They fully repre- sent the entire division of General Heth, and are from nearly every regiment of the division. Four or five of them are from the cavalry, and represent Youngs and Dearings brigades. Only one man from any other division, who belongs to Tenth Georgia, Wrights brigade, Mahones division. Every regiment of Cookes and Kirklands brigades is represented, and several regiments of Archers and Davis, compos- ing all of Heths division. They will not give any information, and I think have none of any importance. Respectfully, your obedient servant, JXO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1,1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Nine contrabands have just been forwarded. They came down the Appomattox from the Pocahontas side last,evening in a boat. They state that Hokes division moved up Sycamore street, down Old street to Campbells Bridge night before last and crossed the river. Cannot say whether they were going to Chaffins Bluff or Early. Some infantry moved in the same direction yesterday. Cars were waiti~g on the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad for troops last night; hospitals being removed to the Chesterfield side yesterday. Can give nothing more definite than the above. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. PLANK ROAD SU~NAL STATION, October 1, 18646.45 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: A column of infantry has just come out of wOO(ls in vicinity of large fort west of the Weldon railroad and moved southward on the railroad; the column was fifteen minutes in passing. No changes or movements visible in other points of the rebel lines. H. W. FULTON, Sergeant Page 10 10 OPEl~ATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. CHAP. MV. WALTHALL SIGNAL STATION, October 1, 18646 p. m. Major FISHER, Chief ~igna1 Officer: It has been too foggy for observations during the day. The follow- ing has been intercepted: 6.30 A. M. Colonel B[RENT]: Three trains of cars just passed up on the City Point road; no troops visible on ton. J. Q. E., At D. (Same to A. B.) 11 A.M. Colonel BERENT]: The camps to our left of open space have been increased. A transport just stopped at [Strahans?] Lower Landing. Two gun-boats above pontoon. J. A. S., At C. (Same to A. B.) II. W. HOLMAN, & rgeant. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, Va., October 1, 1864. Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade: GENERAL: Please have the kindness to send to these headquarters, without delay, a statement by regiments (exclusive of the Engineer Brigade) of the troops under your command guarding the defenses of City Point. It is essential that the number of each regiment, or skele- ton of a regiment, with their supposed strength, be communicated to these headquarters. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant-Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant. aeneral. Statement of troops for the defense of City Point, October 1, 1864. Number Name or designation. Officers present of men Number for duty. present of guns. for duty. 2d Battery Maine volunteers 3 117 4 Provisional battery light artillery 1 42 4 Troops ordered by General Butler to report to General Benham: 205th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers 32 827 200th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers 34 781 Total 70 1,767 5 Colonel Gates command on the 19th of September: 20th New York 200 Colored troops 460 Total 70 2,427 Page 11 CHAP. tIV.j cIOIVRESPONDENCE, ETC .tTNION. I HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 1864. Brigadier-General PATRICK: As it is probable that the troops of your command now stationed at Prince George Court-House and the fort on the Norfolk road will have to remain there some little time, the commanding general directs that you so inform the commanding officer of the detachments in order that they may make their arrangements accordingly. Very respectfully, & c., CB~AS. E. PEASE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- (Jene:a1. (Same to Lieutenant-Colonel Spaulding.) HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18641 a. m. General HuMPHREYS: The lateness of the hour at which your order * was received makes it a difficult matter to execute it before daylight. I have, however, taken all the steps in my power to get out Motts division, or as much of it as possible, and have ordered it to be massed in rear of the Avery house. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18647 a. rn. (Received 7.20 a. in.) General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: A deserter from Sixtieth Alabama, Gracies brigade, Johnsons divis- ion, came in this morning. Says there is nothing new opposite, the lines being held by about two divisions. He was a courier for Gracie. Says they say Early had a fight iii which he was successful day before yes ~terday. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18648 a. m. (Received 8.25 a. in.) General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: General Motts division is now relieved, and part of it massed behind the Avery house; the rest on the plank road in rear of the Chieves house. One regiment and a section of battery is still down the plank road at Williams house. Last night I drew out one field battery from the line and put it in Battery 17, from which it can be moved during the daytime if desirable. The First Division extends from the river to Fort Meikel. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. * See dispatch of September 30, 11.5~p. in, Part II, p. 1128 Page 12 12 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAr. LIT. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18649 a. rn. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS: No changes in the lines of this corps during the last twenty-four hours. Mortars have been put in position by the enemy opposite Fort McGilvery and Battery No. 9, from which they fired a few shots Last night. Firing has been kept up during the past twenty-four hours on the new works which the enemy are building opposite our right. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18649.10 a. m. (Received 10.12 a. in.) General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Motts division has been entirely withdrawn from line except his pickets. No change reported in enemys hue. Petersburg papers of the 29th forwarded. Chief of artillery reports that during the cannon- ade yesterday evening the enemy replied more feebly than usual. Two S-inch guns to right and left of Fort Morton appear to have been removed; at least, they have not fired for two days. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18649.30 a. m. Major-General HANCOCK: The major-general commanding directs that Gei~eral Motts division be sent to General Parke at the ~eebles house, near Poplar Spring Church. He will report to General Parke. He will not need any artillery. Trains of cars will take his troops to the Weldon railroad close to Warrens headquarters, where they will give him some one to show him the road to Peebles. Motts troops should be got at once to the woods near his headquarters, where there is a railroad station. Those on the plank road should be brought to the station near Jones house. Sixty cars will be orderedall there are on the road. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 186410 a. m. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: There were two divisions of J{ill attacking Parke and Warren yester- day. Butler reports that at least one of Hills divisions was in the attack on him, and is inclined to believe there were at least two of Hills divisions there, as well as Hokes and Fields divisions, leaving two divisions of Lees army south of the Appomattox, what, with the forces before Butler and before our left, that in the intrenchments must be weak. A. A. HUMPJIREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff Page 13 CHAP. lAY.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 13 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 186410.15 a. m. Major-General HANCOCK: Mott should take the ammunition train allowed with troops and ambu- lances, & c. Supply wagons should go over to Weldon railroad in order to let him fill up his haversacks. In speaking in previous dispatch of railroad station near INIiotts headquarters, I referred to his old head- quarters near trestle railroad bridge. A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, October 1, 186411 a. m. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: General Mott has been ordered in accordance with your dispatch. His field return shows 6,001 enlisted men for duty and 324 officers. He leaves about 300 men on picket. I could not relieve them on account of the lateness of the hour the order was received. Nine negroes who left Petersburg at 9 last evening were sent to your headquarters a short time ago. They report that the line in front of Petersburg was thinned out last night, about one brigade having been gotten out. They were not, however, closely questioned. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTI~RS SECOND ARMY Coups, October 1, 18641.30 p. m. General MEADE: General Motts division will bring about 5,000 men, I suppose, and as it is comparatively well officered, I think it will do very well and may at a critical time turn the tide. I hope circumstances may admit of its being put in in mass if it is called upon, as I think it will do much better than by brigades; it is now loading. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. I will add that Greggs cavalry will fight remarkably well dismounted, holding a defensive position. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. S. HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: GENERAL: Your letter of the 28th ultimo* to Lieutenant-Colonel Bowers, assistant adjutant-general, headquarters Armies of the United States, in relation to General Orders, No. 37, of September 23, * Sec Part II, p. lO7]~ Page 14 14 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CnAr. LIV. 1864, from these headquarters, in relation to colors lost in battle, was only forwarded according to its address and has been returned with an indorsement of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point. Va., September 30, 1864. Respectfully returned. General Orders, No. 37, headquarters Army of the Potomac, being general in its operation, applying to all regiments or batteries, is approved. The right of any officer commanding troops to reverse any order or action of his subordinate is undoubted. In this case General Hancock might properly have reversed General Gibbons action, but such action having been approved by a superior commander the order must be respected by General Hancock until he can get the same revoked by authority higher than the commanding general. The right of any officer to appeal from decisions of his superior and carry it through to the highest military author- ity cannot be denied, but until a final reversion is obtained all orders must be respected and obeyed. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lient. Col., Military Secretary and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18641 a. m. General Miles, commanding First Division, will at once relieve as much of General Gibbons division as possible by putting in his reserves and holding the line connecting the batteries and inclosed works with a mere skirmish line. General Gibbon will relieve General Mott as far to the left as possible, putting all his division into the inclosed works except a thin skirmish line connecting. Tlie picket-lines will not be changed. It is hoped that General Miles will be able to occupy as far as the Norfolk railroad, and perhaps to include Fort Meikel, and that General Gibbon may relieve all of General Motts division, or at least to Fort Davis. General Mott will mass his division out of sight of the enemy between the Avery house and these headquarters. The greatest promptitude is necessary to secure the execution of this order. By order of Major.General Hancock: C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18643.30 p. m. Major HAZARD, Chief of Artillery: General Humphreys wishes a section of artillery to be sent to Prince George Court-House, and another to the fort on the Norfolk railroad. Some headquarters troops are there. I have not a gun. Can you not spare the battery I sent you yesterday l If so, send it or some other down at once. Let me know by telegraph, that 1 may inform General Meade. H. J. HUNT, Britiadier- Generd Page 15 CHAP. Liv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 15 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, October 1,~ 1864. Major FISHER: Sergeant Jordan reports nothing new this p. in., except that 100 men passed into town from in front of cemetery. Sergeant Holman reports the following intercepted message: Colonel B[RENT]: I have established an observatory in front of General Stenarts brigade in the most commanding view I could find. I observed wagons constantly moving to Fort Har- rison. A large flock of beef-cattle are grazing above Dutch Gap. A large nnmber of boats are moving up and down on the Jamcs River. From the rock at Drewrys lionse, I noticed this morning a large decrease in tbe tents iii the woods to the left of open space to our left of Cobbs. No other change. Commanding. (Same to A. B.) Sergeant Carothers reports all quiet. Nothing new from Captain Thickstun to-day. Holman has sent me the new code nearly complete. Will forward it to you to-morrow. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 1, 18641.30 p. in. Brigadier-General MILES, GENERAL: In case of any movement of the enemys cavalry to onr rear, the general wishes yon, when you hear firing down the plank road, or in the direction of the Norfolk road, to immediately move your reserve (it is understood you have several hundred) to the rear of the Avery house, and commence withdrawing the men you have in the rifle- pits, with the exception of a few men to make a show. In case of any contingency of this nature, the general will place you in command of the rear and General Gibbon in command of the front. Respectfully, & c., C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, & c. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISIoN, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Col. J. C. LYNCH, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: I am directed by the brigadier-general commanding to send to you the inclosed copy of instructionst received from head- quarters Second Corps, and to say that if yon hear any firing on the plank or Norfolk roads you will at once move your reserve of 800 men to the point indicated in the note inclosed, near the Avery house, but not to disturb the front line, reporting at once to these headquarters any firing from the direction mentioned. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. * Correct date probably October 12; sce p. 178, 8cc next, ante Page 16 [CHAP. LIV. 16 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Major-General GIBBON, Commanding & cond Division: GENERAL: The major-general Commanding directs that you relieve all of General Motts pickets in your front. The officer in command of Gen- eral Motts pickets, when they are relieved, will march his pickets entire, either down the line of intrencliments or down the railroad to General Warrens headquarters, where he can ascertain the where- abouts of his division. General Miles has been directed to relieve all of your pickets in his front. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. BINGHAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adfrtant. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Brevet Major-General MOTT, Commandinq Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding desires to be informed as to what number of your command General Gibbon relieved. He also directs that you keep your troops in readiness to move at a moments notice. No tents are to be pitched. It is desired that your command shall be concealed from the view of the enemy as far as possible. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. BINGHAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 1, 186410.30 a. m. Brevet Major-General MOTT, Third Division: The major-general commanding directs that your division move to the Peebles house, near Poplar Spring Church, where you will report to Major-General Parke. A train of sixty cars will be used to transport your division. You can load at the station near the trestle bridge, near your headquarters, and at the Jones house, the regiment at the Williams house to be brought back at once. On arriving at the Weldon road a guide will meet you to conduct you to General Parke. You will take the ammunition train allowed with troops, your ambulances and headquarters spring-wagons, one hospital and one medicine wagon for each brigade. Your supply train, or such part as may be necessary, will move over to the Weldon railroad so that you can fill up the mens haversacks when necessary. No artillery will be needed by you. The troops will be transported by rail to the immediate vicinity of General Warrens headquarters. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. MOI~GAN, ]2icutenaut- Coloftel, Chief of #S~ta Page 17 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 17 HEADQUARTERS SECOND CoRPs, October 1, 18646.30 p. m. General MOTT: (Care General Parke.) Your picket-line will be relieved as soon as i)racticable after dark and ordered to General Warrens headquarters. You had better send some one there to conduct them. C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, die. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND AnMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that abont 7 p. m. the enemy demonstrated in front of the Second Corps line to our left of Fort Sted- man. Our artillery opened vigorously and seemingly with effect. The Iiring ceased in about half an hour. At about the same time our troops to the right of Fort Stedman made a slight demonstration, the artillery opening for a short time. It is reported that the enemys two 8 inch guns to the right and my left of Fort Morton have disappeared. No casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, ]Ifajor, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 186412.15 a. m. (Received 12.20 a. in., 2d.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: General Butler has Fields and Hokes divisions and part of Picketts before him. Lee may send away more troops from this side of the Appomattox. If your reconnaissances show the enemy to have left your front, and the indications are that he has sent off more troops against Butler, it is advisable that you get onto the Boydton plank road. If you deem it practicable, advance to and make a lodgment on it. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to Major-General Parke.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18646.40 a. m. Lieut. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: General Meade has directed me to instruct you to cause the prisoners captured in yesterdays fight on the left to be subjected to a rigid examination for the purpose of ascertaining ot whose troops the enemy were composed, in what force they were. C. D. EMORY. 2 H HVOL XLII~ PT H Page 18 [CHAP LIV 18 OPERATIONS IN SE. Va. AND N. C. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18648 a. m. General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I find the enemy still in position near the Pegram house, where they were last night, and they are making pretty strong demonstra- tions on General Ayres right near the Chappell house. They are also opening with artillery on General Ayres and General Griffins posi- tions. I expect a hard time. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. General IIUMPHREYS Chief of Staff: I have withdrawn llofmanns brigade from the Pegram nouse, as it was sub,jected to a cross-fire of artillery, and sent it to re-enforce Gen- eral Ayres right. General Ayres has repulsed the assaults upon him. Lient. Col. E. S. Otis, commanding First Brigade of Ayres division, is xnorta;lly wounded. He is a great loss. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 186410 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: Motts division is ordered to report to Parke. Gregg is also put nuder his orders. The commanding general directs that as soon as Generai Mott joins General Parke you both attack the enemy in your front, and endeavor to turn his right flank. General Meade will start soon for Peeble& .. A. A.- HUMPHREY 5, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 186411.30 a. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Nothing special has occurred since my last dispatch. We are at work all along the lines, strengthening them and making roads. I ordered the withdrawal from the Pegrain house of Colonel Hofinauns brigade, which was threatened at the time of the attack upon General Ayres. It is, in a measure, a necessity to occupy the line we hold, and that leaves no force to attack with. The quiet of the enemy may indicate that he is intrenching a new line or preparing to attack. We are not strong enough to act offensively, in view of the uncertainties of the enemys positions, numbers, and movements, but we keep feeling them. A mis- take on our part might emmable the enemy to reoccupy the points w Page 19 CHAP. Liv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 19 have taken. We, there fore, are waiting further developments and securing our posliion. I would be pleased to know if our course meets the approval of the general commanding. Respectfully, (1. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18642 p. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: Your dispatch of 11.30 a. m. received. Your course, as preliminary to the arrival of Motts division, is approved by the commanding gen- eral. As soon as Mott gets up dispositions must be made to attack. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of i~taff. YELLOW TAVERN, October 1, 18647 p. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: The major-general commandiiig directs that you move forward and attack to~morrow, as soon after daylight as practicable, in conjunction with General Parke, who has similar orders. You will use your whole force in atta& king, except that part in the inclosed works of the regular line of intrenchmeuts. General Parke will show you his instructions, which will acquaint you with the views of the major-general command- ing.* A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of A3taff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864evening. Major-General MEADE: GENERAL: From what I know of our and General Lees relative strength I do not think we can extend our lines further around Peters- burg without great risk. If we design, by such continued extensions, ultimately to make him abandon Petersburg, and if the complete en- velopment of it from river-bank to river-bank is practicable, I think it altogether to be expected that when we reach our fullest development he will, by a concentrated effort, break our lines and compel ns to fall back to the James with much loss of material. If Petersburg is worth the efforts we are making, it is worth that effort from General Lee, and he will make it before evacuation of the place. Now, I would propose the establishment of a very strong positiou on the Weldon railroad, with a supply of stores and competent garrison, and then, assembling all our force, place ourselves on the South Side Railroad and destroy it. This would undoubtedly bring on a general battle, which would decide whether General Lee could keep the field against us or not. If he could not, we should thus compel him to retire within his defenses, anda siege proper could begin. If lie beats us, we can retire upon the position on the Weldon railroad or upon the James. This last is a supposition which our calculations do not admit oL If it be said General Lee might refuse us battle and come out between ns and our base and fortify, we * See Humplireys to Parke, 6.45 p. in., p. 26 Page 20 20 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. could prepare several roads to the James on which to retire for supplies if necessary; or we could attack him or Petersburg, one of which would be held by half or less of his force. If we go on as we are going, with our ultimate point of occupation so distant, we shall finally become powerless for offensive operations, perhaps before it is reached, all our forces being required to hold our lines against attacks from the front or cavalry raids in our rear. We need time to get our new levies in order, and no matter how great the pressure, we cannot succeed with them till they have at least acquired the knowledge of the rudiments of their drill and discipline. Another effect of our operating at the same time on two such distant flanks is to make the commander at each point apprehensive of being greatlyoutuumbered by the enemy, which is always practicable for him to do at one or the other and thus inevitably produce want of boldness and vigor on our part, unless we neglect more than any of us are willing to do. Then, I would again urge, let us give up all our investing line, except one point at most, and again take the field with our whole army. I do not wish to urge my views for any personal object, nor wish them to be considered as find- ing fault with other plans, but I am so convinced of the justness of what I advance and of its importance to our corps that I present them to you at all hazards, and you are at liberty to make use of this com- munication in any way you please to. Respectfully submitted. G. K. WARREN, Major-General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY Coups, October 1, 18641.45 p. m. Brigadier-General AYRES, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that in his judgment the movements of the enemy indicate his intention to make a pretty strong attack upon us this evening. He wishes you to keel) well on the lookout. A note just received from General Crawford states that there has been a good (leal of picket-firing on the right of our line, about where the enemy broke throngh on the 19th ultimo. The enemy advanced a skirmish-line this morning (about 12 in.) upon our right of the railroad. The dense woods prevents the view of a line of battle should the enen,iiy have one there. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,~ FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH Coups, October 1, 1864. Colonel LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifth Corps: COLONEL: I liav~ the honor to report that I have about 500 men on picket in front of General Crawfords division. Those officers and men have been on three days, and I have reliable information that shows that they should be relieved this evening. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. B. AYRES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 21 CnM~. L1V.l CORRESPONIYENCE, EPC.IJNION. 21 hEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRps, Brigadier-General AYRES, October 1, 1864. Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: General Crawford has been directed to relieve your pickets this evening. They will be instructed to report here when re- lieved. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assi.~tant Adjutant- General. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 1, 18646.45 a. m. General CRAWFORD: The enemy has put out a line of skirmishers at double-quick and sup- ported it by a line of battle. The line appears to extend from the W. Davis house into the woods north. The line of battle does not advance, and ~he skirmishers have halted. Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 1, 18647.25 a. m. Coli~el LOCKE: The enemy advanced a skirmish line and supported it with a line of battle probably 1,000 strong. They have engaged our skirmish line upon the Squirrel Level road. Their line is almost east and west. Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 1, 186411.25 a. m. Captain MARVIN: The works about the W. Davis house are full of men; probably the force that advanced this a. m. Troops are moving upon the plank road toward our left, but the fog is so dense that we can neither determine their character nor numbers. Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 1, 186412.15 p. m. Captain MARVIN: The enemy are advancing a skirmish line upon our right of the rail- road. We cannot see any line in rear of it but it if there was a line. , the woods would hide Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer Page 22 tOHAP. ttV~ 22 OPE1IATION~ IN 5Th VA. AND N. 0. HEADQUARTERS, Globe Tavern, October 1, iSGI. (Received 9 a. in.) General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: The One hundred and eighty-fifth New York Regiment has reported this morning without tents, rations, or ammunition. All these are in charge of the regimental quartermaster at City Point, Lieutenant Gilbert. Please direct that they be sent at once. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18649.10 a. m. General S. W. CRAWFORD, Headquarters Fifth Corps: General Ingalls has been requested to send forward as soon as pos- sible the tents, subsistence, and ammunition of the One hundred and eighty-fifth New York Volunteers. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Globe Tavern, October 1, 18649.25 a. in. General HUMPHREYS: GENERAL: The thirteen prisoners taken this morning belong as fol- lows: Three from Walkers brigade, of Heths division; seven from Archers brigade, of Heths division; three from Dearings brigade of cavalry; one officer, aide-de-camp to General Dunovant (cavalry). A deserter, just brought in, reports that he belongs to Twenty-sixth Mississippi, of Davis brigade, of Heths division. He says the whole of Heths division is here and that some said Wilcox was on the right. He says that the works yesterday were defended in part by Dearings brigade of cavalry, about 1,000 strong. Firing has nearly ceased on the left. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier-General, Commanding Defenses. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 186412.45 p. m. [Colonel LOCKE:] COLONEL: General Crawford wishes inc to say that he will send a guard through all the camps to pick up any stragglers there may be. He thinks there are but few of them, however. There has been heavy picket-firing on the right of our line about where the enemy broke through on the 19th of August. Lieutenant Clarke reports half an hour ago the enemy advancing a skirmish line upon our right of the rail- road. We cannot see any line in the rear of it, but the woods would hide it if there w~s a line. General Meade has not yet arrived here. Very respectfully, A. ~. MARVIN, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. Your orders about bedding, & c., will be attended to. N Page 23 CHAP. LIV.j CORI~ESPONJI~ENCE, ETC.UNION. 23 FIFTH A1~Mv CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 1, 186~ 1.15 p. m. General CRAWFORD: The force reported that moved to our right or a similar force has marched out and has gone into the works north of this station. The mist makes observation very difficult. Our skirmish line drove the enemy back to the rifle-pits at the edge of the woods east of railroad. Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer. PEEBLES HOuSE, October 1, 1864. General CRAWFORD: Telegraph line has just been opened to this place. General Hum- phreys tells me that General Motts division has been ordered up. Can you inform me where this division now is ~ All is comparatively quiet here now. JNO. G. PARKE, - Major. General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, October 1, 18643.30 p. m. General UUMPHREYS: (General Parkes Headquarters.) GENERAL: Mott has arrived and goes forward at once. He has 3,000 men and there are 1,500 to follow000 of Dc Trobriands brigade, 700 of Pierces brigade, and 125 men of McAllisters. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. General Meade forgot two dispatches here, which ! have. S. W. C. (Same to Major-General Parke.) HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Globe Tavern,. October 1, 1864. General HANCOCK: GENERAL: The enemy attacked our left this morning at 7 oclock, and we~e repulsed. The attack was not severe. At noon they advanced their skirmish line on my left and engaged my skirmishers. Their line reoccupied their works. Gregg has withdrawn and gone to our left. His rear guard was attacked as he withdrew. The troops of your corps are arriving and going to General Parke. Mott has gone on. Heth and Wilcox, and probably Mahoiie, to-night are with the cavalry, all we can discover to be here. We lost considerably in prisoners yes- terday from the Ninth Corps. Truly, yours, S. W. CRAWFORD Page 24 24 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPs, Peebles House, October 1, 18G45 p. m. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs you to relieve General Ayres pickets this evening with a detail of 200 men. This force is not intended to fight, but as a lookout so as to give timely warning to the fort. General Ayres pickets, when relieved,~will report here. Please give instructions accordingly. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18G45.55 p. m. General WARREN, Commanding: GENERAL: Your order is received. Ayres pickets will be at once relieved by General Baxter, as I cannot spare any more men from general Bragg. He is picketing in front of the negro troops as far as Howard. The enemy threw out a strong skirmish line about noon, and advanced into the woods, engaging my skirmishers at a point opposite to the right of my line where Ayres right formerly rested. Their line of battle advanced to their works. Ferrero has just reported that the enemy are feeling his lines to the right of Fort Howard, but have not shown any force as yet. All else is quiet. The new troops are in the works from Wadsworth to the right. I replaced the battery in 26 when the picket-firing began. The fog is heavy and impedes all view from the signal station. I greatly rejoice in your success of yesterday and only regret I was not with you. Yery respectfully, ~. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 1, 18G47.55 p. m. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of AS~taff: GENERAL: The enemy about 5.20 p. m. advanced a strong skirmish line on Ferreros right near Fort Howard. He has just reported that their skirmish line fell back after receiving our fire. I have just received the 7.30 dispatch of the major-general commanding and will advance all I have under my command at daylight. I will be guided by the instructions I received this p. m. and will act independently of my flanks. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Comm an ding Division Page 25 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 17 1864. Captain MARVIN, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: It is probable that we shall make a demonstration in our front to-morrow at daylight. I wish the signal officer to be at his post as soon as it is light, and commnnicate with me any movement in my front after the attack on the left commences. If the enemy leave their works let me know it at once. He can send to you. Please see that the signal officer is informed to-night. Yery respectfully S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18645.15 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: Your dispatches of 11.50 September 30* and 12.15 October 1 just received. I very much fear that my loss is much heavier than I sup- posed it to be at the time you left yesterday, still 1 hope when the stragglers are all brought in that I may find I am mistaken. Before - we withdrew to our present line, scouting parties reported the enemy still in position along the edge of wood just north of J. Pegranis. Be- fore sending out a reconnaissance from my corps, I would munch prefer making ourselves secure in our present position, which I cannot fully ascertain and realize until after daylight, still I will do the best I can to acquire the desired information. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18649 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: The enemy have advanced on General Warren and he i~ momenta- - rily expecting an attack on Ayres. The enemy opened with artillery both on Ayres and on our force in the vicinity of Pegrams house. This force has been withdrawn and we now hold the intrenchments strong. No advance has yet been made. General Gregg is now here and will send a dispatch. Respectfully, J~O. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 186410 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: General Motts division has been ordered to report to you. It will be sent in cars as far as Weldon railroad. General Gregg is directed See 11.45 p. in., Part II, p. 1138 Page 26 OPE1~ATtONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CHAP. ttV. to move up to your left and co-operate with you. You will assume command of his troops also. As soon as Mott joins you, you and Geu- eral Warreu will attack the enemy and endeavor to envelop his right flank. Mott will have 5,000 or 6,000 men, and Gregg between 3,000 and 4,000. Gregg will, of course, form part of your fighting force. The major-general commanding will start for the Peebles house soon. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. YELLOW TAVERN, October 1, 18642 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: One brigade of Motts division has arrived here and is leaving for your headquarters. The division will now continue to arrive rapidly. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staffq HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, Peebles, October 1, 18643 p. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chi~f of Staff: Any advance that we may be able to make this evening may result in the taking of the Pegram house, but I think nothing further. The enemy have artillery at that point, but there is no positive evidence of any heavy force, although there is slight skirmishing toward that posi- tion, and to the right. The ground is getting very soft. No change has been made in my lines. When General Mott arrives I propose forming Willcox and Potter and moving them on to the Pegram house and use Mott to supl)ort and extend to the left. Will Major-General Meade be here ~ General Warren will advance Griffins division, but Ayres will not be able to make any advance. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. YELLOW TAVERN, October 1, 18643 p. m. Major-General PARKE Commanding Ninth Army Corps: GENERAL: General Meade and staff have just left for your head- quarters. Will you please send some of your mounted orderlies to re- port to me for the purpose of conducting the troops as they arrive to youl Send for the stragglers, & c. I am sending those from the Fifth Corus forward. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18646.45 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth tJorps: The major-general commanding directs that you move forward as soon after daylight to-morrow as practicable and attack the enemy, moving in such a way as will strike him most ef& ctually, probably by throwing forward your left and endeavoring to turn his right flank Page 27 (ThAP. LIV.) 27 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. The object being finally to effect a lodgment upon the Boydton plank road, within reach of the South Side Railroad, or, if we prove to be strong enough, to follow the enemy closer to Petersburg. These being the objects, you must be governed by circumstances in the extent by which you endeavor to secure them. Major-General Warren is ordered to attack with you with all his force excepting that left with the forts on the Weldon railroad. You will use General Gregg. in such manner as will most effectually aid you, either by forcing his way up the road past Hawks and coming in on your left, or by attacking the enemy in the vicinity of his present position. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TILE POTOMAC, October. 1, 18641O.30jp.m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Army Corps: General Gregg reports that Hampton is in front 6f him with four brigades, and he expects to be attacked in the morning. Send him a brigade if he calls on you for support. He is told to call on you if he needs it. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS, October 1, 18646 a. m. Major-General HUMPLIREYS: GENERAL: General Davies brigade did not get back to Davis until between 1 and 2 oclock this morning. General Dunovants (formerly Bntler~s) brigade was met after dark on the telegraph road, near Arm- strongs. One of General D.s staff officers captured reports that Gen- eral Hamptons cavalry were engaged with our infantry (Fifth and Ninth Corps) yesterday. The order for a movement of my command did not reach me until after 5 oclock this morning. I will get off as soon as possible. As I am ordered to move with my command I will withdraw my pickets in this section. I have not yet had opportunity to issue forage and rations. Respectfully, D. MuM. GREGG, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 1, 18648.30 a m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: On my arrival here General Parke informed me that the object of the intended reconnaissances has been fully accomplished the enemy found. Upon consultation with Generals Warren and Parke I will make disposition to protect Parkes left and the rear of the line Page 28 28 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. cHA1~. LIV. The best position for my conimand to do this is on the Vaughan road and about Davis house. General ~ brigade is near the Arm- strong house. I will dispose my command about Davis and on the Vaughan road. Yours, D. MoM. GREGG, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 1, 18G41O.45 a. m. Maj. Gen. A. A. HU1~IPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: As my rear guard was leaving Davis house the enemy attacked, n sing artillery, and took possession of the place. I am now driving them back to regain the position and establish a brigade there. Respectfully, D. MoM. GREGG, Briga~1ier- General of Volunteers, Comdg. Second Division. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, Davis House, October 1, 18G412.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have driven the enemy back to Wilkinsons, beyond which they have two guns. The enemy have both mounted and dis- mounted forces. To drive them back, my force has to be dismounted. I will occupy this position with one brigade, and the other in rear as the enemy appear toward Dinwiddie road. Respectfully, D. McM. GREGG, Brigadier-General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18642 p. m. Brigadier-General GREGC, Commanding Cavalry: Your dispatch of 12.45 p. m. is received. Attack the force at Wil- kinsons and develop its strength, and, if you can, drive it across the Rowanty. It is important that our whole ~rce should engage the enemy in this quarterthat is, outside of the intrenchments. General Motts leading brigade has jnst arrived here and is moving out to Parke. The whole division will soou be here, and as soon as it reaches Parke dispositions will be made to attack the enemy near the Peebles house, and the attack will be made as SOOII as practicable. If you can occupy an equal or greater force of the enemy than your own, and keep them from joining those we attack, it will be equivalent to joining the attack here, particularly if you beat them. A. A. IJUMPUREYS, ]liliajor- General and Chief of Staff Page 29 CHAP. Liv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 29 HEADQUARTERS SECONI) DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 1, 18646.30 p. m. Major-General HuMl~uREYS, Chief of & ~f: GENERAL: The attack upon my brigade at Wilkin sons was made by Butlers division, both brigades being engaged as reported by a staff officer of General Young captured. My line at Wilkinsons was forced back on t~e Vaughan road to Davis. The attack is reported to have been very strong and made in front and on both flanlis. I think the enemy are withdrawing their dismounted forces and establishing mounted pickets. The chain of vedettes in front of the Vaughan road on the right of Davis was broken~ but is being re-established. This position is difficult to hold~ as the enemy can bring their dismounted force in so many directions through the dense woods surrounding it. I have not yet ascertained the loss in my command this p. m. D. MCM. GREGG, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Major-General HuMPHREYS, Chief of AS1taff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have a wounded prisoner of Davis brigade, who reports his whole brigade having been here to-day. The report of General Youngs staff officer shows that four brigades of Hamptons are now here, Hampton commanding. I can only fight six regiments and a battery, but these will make a strong resistance if we are attacked again in the morning. I will be all ready in the morning. Respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MCM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 1, 18641 0 p. m. Brigadier-General GREGG: Your dispatch is received announcing the presence of Davis brigade. Call on General Parke for support if you deem it necessary, as you undoubtedly will be attacked in the morning. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Brigadier-General GREGG, Commanding Dirision: GENERAL: The following is an extract of orders received from head- quarters Army of the Potomac: You will use General Gregg iu such manner as will most effectually ai(l you, either by forcing his way up the road past Hawks and coming in on your left, or by attacking the enemy in the vicinity of his present position. The general commanding directs me to say to you that the infantry is ordered to be in readiness to move at 7 in the morning, and that he relies mainly upon your own judgment in the execution of so much of to-morrows operations as depends upon your movements. The com- manding general directs me to say also that he desires you either t Page 30 30 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. tiv. gommunicate with him to-night, through the officer who will hand you this, or report to him in person at these headquarters at 6 in the morn- ing or as soon thereafter as practicable. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. ~. YOUNGMAN As8istant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, October 1, 18613 a. m. Major-General BUTLER: The following dispatch* from General Meade is forwarded for your information. Under existing circumstances you must discard the idea of receiving re-enforceinents, and if attacked make the best defense you can with the troops with you. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 1, 18646 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: All quiet so far. I have sent for Second New Hampshire and Gen- eral Marston from Fort Pocahontas. Shall we see you to-day l I have ordered the Greyhound to report to you. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 1, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: I will try to get out to your headquarters some time before 12 oclock. Before starting I want to have the result of General Meades move- ments. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 1, 18646.55 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The following dispatch, just received, is forwarded for the informa- tion of the lieutenant-general commanding: HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Lieut. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assi8tant Adjutant-General, General Butlers Headquarters: The rebels have evacuated the small battery in front of my left and have gone apparently to the next redoubt toward my right. My picket-line is being advanced. Respectfully, D. B. BIRNEY, Majo~-- General, Commanding. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. (Copy to Major-General Weitzel, commanding Eighteenth Corps.) See Meade to Grant, 11.30 p. m. September 30, Part II, p 1122 Page 31 CHAP. LIV.] 31 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CITY POINT, VA., Octqber 1, 186410.45 a. m. Major-General BUTLER: From deserters and prisoners captured it is ascertained that John- sons, Mahones, ileths, and Wilcoxs divisions are about Petersburg. I start for your headquarters as soon as I can write some dispatches. U.S. cTRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 1, 18647.15 p. m. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: Prisoners were yesterday taken from Andersons brigade, Fields division. The presence of Wilcoxs, ileths, Mahones, and Johnsons divisions was also shown about Petersburg. This shows that the ene- my have divided divisions, and possibly brigades, to give the appearance of force at all points. ~. ~. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 1, 18648.55 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: I have received no official report of the reconnaissance. Lieutenant Michie, who was with it, has returned. General Terry penetrated as far as the intrenchlnents on the Darbytown road without opposition. General Kautz crossed the Charles City road without opposition as far as the line of fortifications; which he found held in considerable force, but not large force of infantry. General Kautz crossed the Charles City road and exchanged shots with the enemy at a point in the fortifications where they cross that road. General Birney ad- vanced his pickets along the New Market road and drove their skir- mishers into their works, capturing some prisoners who were all of local defense battalions. I have seen one or two of them. Allis quiet. - B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Gommanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 1, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: I think it will be advisable to select a line which cau be held with one of your corps as now composed, giving you an outlet at Deep Bot- tom or Aikens. The other corps could be kept on the north side as well as elsewhere, but held ready for any emergency. The line now held, it seems to me, would always expose you to a lank or rear attack, and would cause the enemy to so prepare that no surprise on that side could again be made. The strong works about Chaffins farm should be held or leveled. Sheridan, for want of supplies, if there should be no other reasons, will be forced to fall back. The enemy may tak Page 32 32 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. advantage of such an occurrence to bring the remnant of Earlys force here, relying upon his ability to get it back to the Valley beftre Sheri- dan could fit up and return. In such case he could fall upon either flank as now exposed, and inflict great damage. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Junction of 1~arina and New Market Roads, October 1,1864 1155p.m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Will prepare to take up such line as you propose to-morrow. As General Barnard and Colonel Comstock have been over the ground as well as yourself, please advise nm what line to take, as to its extent and advanced posts. Of course it must be a much shorter one than the present. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Mc~jor- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, October 1, 1864. Lieutenant DAVENPORT, General Butlers Staff: We think that Hoke and Field have gone up in front of you; that Bushrod Johnson and Mahone hold the line from the Appomattox to the lead-works, and that Heth and Wilcox are on the enemys right. Can you give us anything to prove or disprove, or can you locate any part of enemys forces? SHARPE, Colonel. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 101. City Point, Va., October 1, 1864.. I. Brig. Gen. George H. Gordon, U. S. Volunteers, will report with- out delay to Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler, commanding Department of Vir- ginia and North Carolina, for assignment. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lient. Col., Military Secretary and Actg. Asst. A~jt. Gen. OCTOBER 1, 18648.30 a. m. Major-General BIRNEY: Unless you know some movement of the enemy of which I am not informed which should vary the situation, you will please take two brigades of Terrys division and make a reconnaissance in force up the Darbytown road toward Richmond. You mnay be able to get through. I inclose an order for General Kautz to co-operate with you if you move, of which please let me know. Also send you a report from Genera Page 33 LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 33 Weitzel, which will show that the enemy are looking for your right. That being so, General Terrys brigades may not be out of place on the IDarbytown road. BENJ. F. BUTLEJ~, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18641.55 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: GENERAL: At 1.25 the infantry column reached the Central road and is now advancing. General Kantz sends a brigade up Charles City road and the other takes the advance up the Darby or Central road. Eight guns go with the Central road column and two with Charles City column. My line here is all ready. There are no movements of enemy discovered in my front. I shall also make a demonstration on New Market road, driving in their pickets. Yours, respectfully, D. B. BIRNEY, Major- General. IIEADQUAIRTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18643.45 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: The column on the Central road have found infantry in pretty strong force three miles from the city. A column of rebel troops seen march- ing from our left to right; about a brigade. This fbrce is in plain sight in opening behind the force in our front. Shots are heard also from Charles City column. On New Market road have driven enemys pick- ets to their works with a charge. D B. BIRNEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18644.30 p. m. Lieut. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the James: COLONEL: I have driven their J)ickets in confusion across my right into the field up to their works, and now hold Varina road and position occupied by me day before yesterday. They ran without much fight. D. B. BIRNEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18644.35 p. m. Lient. Col. E. W. SMiTH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the James: I see no reason for recalling General Terry. I am about to send a force (small) on his left to demonstrate. I have ordered him to attack any force outside main works. Prisoners all say that they have only militia on our right. If nothing can be done he will return after dark. Yours, respectfully, B. BIRNEY, ]Jitajor- General. 3 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 34 34 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. IJY. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 18645.45 p. m. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: The enemy tried to turn my right flank of skirmish line, which was repulsed handsomely. Enemy opened on the Darby column with two heavy batteries and one field piece, but little musketry. No firing heard from Charles City road. The main line of works is in plain sight and the colunin is directed toward them. We have only used one sec- tion (3-inch). I still hold up to their works at Yarina junction. Heavy skirmishing. D. B. BJRNEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, Bqfore Richmond, October 1, 1864. Lieut. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the James: The few prisoners taken in our charge on the pickets on the New Market road are all of the militia, quartermaster, naval, & c. General Terrys advance is at the Powell house on the Central road. A column reported to be a large one is in sight. I will be all prepared on my left near the work. D. B. BIRNEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, General Butlers Headquarters: The rebels have evacuated the small battery in front of my left, and have gone, apparently, to the next redoubt toward my right. My picket-line is being advanced. Respectfully, D. B. BIRNEY, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Brigadier-General FOSTER, Commanding Second Dirision: GENERAL: You will select one good regiment and send it as a line of skirmishers to drive in the enemys pickets on the New Market road. They will make a demonstration, firing on them, and cheering to give the enemy an idea of an attack. This should be done to relieve Gen- erals Terry and Kantz advancing up the Central road. Please report the progress of reconnaissance. You c~n take a regiment of Plaisteds if you prefer. Yours, respectfully, D. B. BERNEY, Major- General Page 35 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 35 HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH Coups, October 1, 18643 p. m. Lieut. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: It is reported to me that the enemy seems to be maneuvering as if about to attempt an assault on our maiu work. Very respectfully, WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRs. THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY Coups, Before Richmond, October 1, 18646.15 p. m. Major READ, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighteenth Army Corps: Our pickets on the left, overlooking the open field running down to the river, report having seen a regiment moving up apparently from the enemys pontoon bridge to our right; also that they heard cheering as if on the pontoon bridge. C. ~ PAINE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. OCTOBER 1, 1864. General KAUTz, Commanding Cavalry Division: I have directed General Birney, if the state of things in his front will justify it, to make a reconnaissance up the Darbytown road. You will co-operate with him, keeping a sharp lookout toward New Market. The cavalry force that was there ha~ gone to Richmond. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Doctor Johnsons, Darby Road, October 1, 1864S p. m. Major-General BUTLER, Commanding: GENERAL: Colonel Spear has returned and reports that he drove the enemy into the intrenchments on the Charles City road. He reports seeing about a regiment of cavalry. Thinks if my division had been there it would have gone over the works. Says he could see Richmond very distinctly. He had 3 men wounded, 1 man missing, and 4 horses killed. I hold the same position I did this morning and picket on the Charles City road. Very respectfully, AUGUST ~. KAUTZ, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 2, 18648.30 p. m. Major-General UA1~LECK, Washington: General Butler, on the right of the James, and General Meade, south- west of Petersburg, occupy the same position as yesterday. There has been very little fighting to-day; a few prisoners, however, have bee Page 36 36 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. captured. General Butler reports having last evening sent two bri- gades of infantry with a little cavalry within a few hundred yards of the inner line of works east of Richmond, meeting with no opposition. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 18648 a. m. (Sent 8.10 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I forward dispatch* just received from Major-General Parke, being all the iuformation I have to report. Parkes and Warrens losses in killed, wounded, and missing were yesterday estimated at 2,500. As Mott only brings 4,500, the actual re-enforcement is about 2,000. GEG. G. MEAPE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Globe Tavern, October 2, 186411 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Parke and Warren report the enemy haVing withdrawn from some of the positions occupied yesterday. Signal officers report their main line of works as far as seen heavily manned. The inference is the enemy refuse battle outside their works, to which they have retired awaiting attack. Without your orders I shall not attack their intrench- ments, but on being satisfied they are not outside of them I will take up the best position I can, connecting with the Weldon railroad and extending as far to the left as practicable, having in view the protec- tion of my left flank, and then intrench. I should be glad to know your views and orders. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. DEEP BOTTOM, October 2, 186411.10 a. m. Major-General MEADE: Carry out what you propose in dispatch of 11 a. m.that is, intrench and hold what you can, but make no attack against defended fortifica- tions. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, October 2, 1864. Major-General MEABE: You may shorten the line to the extent you deem necessary to be able to hold it. All you do hold west of the Weldon road be prepared to give up whenever the forces holding it are necessary to defend any other part of the line. I have just returned from Deep Bottom. When I left the enemy were reported advancing down the New Market road. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. * See Parke to Hwnphreys, 7.45 a. in., p. 44 Page 37 (IHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 37 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18649 a. m. (Received 9.30 a. in.) General WILLIAMS: An infantry force not less than 200 had better be left in the redoubt on the Norfolk road. Hancock thinks they could hold it and it will be of importance to hold it. Hancock will supply them. They had better be taken from the One hundred and fourteenth and Sixty-eighth, and the engineers may be wanted on the left. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. H. J. HUNT: The commanding general desires that the artillery you have at Prince George Court-House and at the lower redoubt on the Norfolk railroad be withdrawn this morning and ordered to report to Major-General Hancock, commanding Second Army Corps Fery respectfully, & c., S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. OCTOBER 2, 186410 a. in. Major-General HUMPIIREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Two deserters from Thirty-fifth North Carolina, Ran- soins brigade, Johnsons division,just forwarded. Came in last night. Johnsons division remains unchanged. Informants have good reason to believe that Hokes division was sent to Chaffins Bluff and after- ward recalled, and all or part of it sent to the right beyond the Weldon railroad. It moved from the ravine in the rear a day or two ago and crossed the Appomattox. The cooks of the Thirty-fifth North Carolina, who are stationed to the rear in Petersburg, reported yesterday that all, or part of it, had been recalled and sent to the right. Two prison- ers of war from Forty-eighth Mississippi, Harris brigade, Mahones division, taken last night, report that no change has been made in the position of Mahones division. They are not reliable, however. Yours, respectfn1ly~ J. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 2, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following dispatch from the plank road station is respectfully forwarded: At 5.30 p. m. a column of infantry, about 2,000, came out on road west of Weldon railroad from the direction of Petersburg, and disappeared in woods on the right of the large fort west of the railroad. Seventeen ambulances went in toward Peters- burg, coming from the left alono the Weldon railroad. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. (Forwarded to Lieutenant-General Grant at 8 p. in. Page 38 38 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV~. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 2, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the following from my stations in addition to the dispatch forwarded: Several camps npon the north bank of the Appomat- tox northwest from Pocahontas have disappeared. Forty ambulances came toward Petersburg from the direction of Richmond also one regiment of infantry. The lookout at the plank road station states there is some evidence of a slight increase in numbers in the intrench- ments in front of that point. Fery respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Offlcer.~ (Forwarded to General Grant at 8 p. in.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 18648.30 a. rn. Major-General HANcocK: The commanding general has directed that the camp of these head- qnarters move at 11 a. in. to-day to the vicinity of the Weldon railroad. The infantry detachments and the artillery at Prince George Court- House and at the lower redoubt on the Norfolk railroad will be with- drawn this morning. The detachments of cavalry are ordered to remain at both places, and to be reported to you. The artillery has also been ordered to report to yon. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant 4djutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 2, 186410.10 a. m. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Fonr negroes and one refugee from Petersburg have just been bronght in. They confirm what has already beeu heard, that Wilcox started away on Wednesday, but returned when the light commenced on the left. They say that during the past week Government stores and the property of citizens have been removed from Petersburg, and the sick and wounded taken away. They do not know what troops are oppo- site me, except Johnsons division on my right. The laborers in machine- shops, & c., who could be spared, have been placed in the intrenchinents to take the place of troops moved toward our left during the fighting. I have sent them up to your old headquarters. Two of them are very intelligent boys. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. (Received 11.10 a. in.) General HUMPHREYS: A deserter from Ransoms brigade, Johnsons division, has been brought in. He has nothing new. Says the men would make one goo Page 39 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 39 line, about elbow to elbow. Where he is there are few pieces of artillery in the front line, the most of it being in the large works in rear, command- ing the first. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 186411.45 a. m. Major-General HANCOCK: Our advance this a. m. found the enemy withdrawn from their posi- tion of last night. Parke and Warren are developing their position. From reports of signal officers I infer they have retired to their former and main line of works; if so, I shall, take up a position, connect with the Weldon road, guard my left flank, and await attack, unless other- wise directed. The battery around the Jordan house, No. 4, requires a garrison of about 150 men and should be inclosed. Please have one detailed and let the work be done. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. - HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18645 r. m. Major-General HANCOCK: We are all prepared for Lee if he desires to come. Our line is extended over two miles to the west of the Weldon railroad. Pretty well intrenched already. No appearance of an advance as yet. Have you seen the article in Richmond Enquirer of 27th, copied in Herald of 30th, fifth page, bottom of column? GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: A Petersburg paper of October 1, just received, has been sent to you by orderly. It contains an account of operations on both ends of the line, but I notice nothing very important. The cavalry picket at Mount Zion Church was fired on this evening about an hour before dark. Two parties of the enemy of five men each were seen. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRI& ADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: I have the honor to report that yesterday at about 4 p. m. a section of the Fourteenth Massachusetts Battery was moved into Fort Bross, and a section of the Third Vermont Battery was taken from Battery No. 17 and put in position at Prince George Court-House. The othe Page 40 40 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. section of the Fourteenth Massachusetts is in position in Battery 37. Nothing of importance occurred on the line during the past twenty-four hours. Very little firing by the artillery. No casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. (Copy to Capt. John N. Craig, assistant adjutant-general. artillery headquarters, Army of the Potomac.) HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, Brig. C-en. S. WILLIAMS, October 2, 1864. Assistant Adjutant-General, Bid qrs. Army of the Potomac: SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of General Orders, No. 37, headquarters Army of the Potomac, approving my action in regard to regiments losing their colors in battle. My order was origi- nally published for the benefit of my own command, under the impres- sion that I had power to act in the premises. Now, as the rnle is made general in this army, the three regiments mentioned in my order ought not to be made to suffer the disgrace alone when others in other corps, in thi~ corps, and even in this division, have also lost their colors. I therefore respectfully request that the order may be made to commence from the same date for all, or, what would perhaps be better, not made retrospective, but apply to all regiments losing their colors hereafter. Another regiment in this division lost its colors in the same action (Reams) bnt was not included in my order, because the regiment itself was captured and the circumstances could not be investigated. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN GJBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding Division. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Brigade commanders will hold their commands well in hand, vigilant to the utmost, and under arms at daylight. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 18648 a. m. Major-General WARREN: General Crawford was instructed last evening to keep a watch upon the enemy in his front and make demonstrations of attack in order to keep him (the enemy) in the intrenchments in his front. If, however, the enemy should greatly weaken the force in his front and afford him a favorable op~rtunity he was to attack. The commanding general has directed him this morning to communicate with you before making any serious movement. - A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff Page 41 CHAP. MV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 41 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, At Weldon Railroad, October 2, 186111 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: There appears to be a doubt with General Crawford whether General Bragg forms a part of his command, aud if he is to look after him under any circumstances, or whether Bragg is to receive his orders from you, or General Ayres, or any one else.* A. A. IIUMPIIJiEYS, Major-General and Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, On Weldon Railroad, October 2, 186411.15 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: Appearances indicate that the enemy has withdrawn to his main line of intrenchments. Upon this being ascertained with certainty it is the intention of the commanding general to take up the best line for con- necting with the Weldon railroad, and making the left secure, and then to intrench. It is not his intention at present to do more than this. He will neither attack the main intrenchments nor attempt to effect a lodgment on the Boydton plank road. You will be governed in your movements by these considerations. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Jllajor- General and Chief of ~3taff. (Same to General Parke, commanding Ninth Corps.) General AYRES: I send you this dispatch, received since I sent you the order to take the fort at the Davis house.t I will try to come up and see you soon. Unless it can be done easily I do not care much about it, as I believe you are on the best line for us to occupy now. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. YELLOW TAVERN SIGNAL STATION, October 2, 18648 a. rn. (Received 11.30 a. in.) Captain MARVIN: We had a good view of the enemys lines. They have removed all the guns and most of the force from about the W. Davis house. There they only show a thin skirmish line. The main works north of station are unusually full of men, or, rather, they show themselves more freely. The fog prevents any extended observations. Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, AS~ignal Officer. (Copies sent to Generals Parke and Ayres.) For answer, see Warren to Crawford, 11.50 a. in., p. 43. See Warren to Ayres, 11.50 a. na., p. 43 Page 42 42 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 2, 186410 a. m. Captain MARVIN. The enemy ran back from their rifle-pits about the W. Davis house. Officers rallied them about the barn north of Davis house. From the sound of the firing our forces have steadily advanced and are still going ahead. Respectfully, GEG. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 2, 18641.30 jp. m. Captain MARVIN: Our troops are in and around the W. Davis house. The enemy are in pits northeast of the house. We sold all the works that can be seen around that point. Our line east of railroad remains unchanged. Respectfully, GEO. 4. CLARKE, Signal Officer. FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 2, 18642.40 p. m. Captain MARVIN: Our men fell back from the W. Davis house and the rebels ad- vanced their line so as to occupy it. There was no firing upon either side. The rebels opened fire from a gun within main works and burst two shells in the vicinity of the Davis house before our people left. Respectfully, GEO. J. CLARKE, Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Captain MARVIN, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: If nothing happens to prevent, the major-general com- manding will return to the Globe Tavern to-night. See Captain Hilton and have everything in readiness about the tents, & c. Inform General Crawford of this. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18647.45 a. rn. Brigadier-General AYRES, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding desires you to have your men pack their tents and get everything ready prepared for a move- ment. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 43 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 43 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPS, Peebles House, October 2, 186411.50 a. rn. General AYRES: If you think you can take the fort at the Davis house give it a trial, and if captured hold it. It will develop what the enemy is doing. Everything but cavalry, as far as we have found out, has left this neighborhood. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 18648 a. m. Major-General CRAWFORD, Gomdg. Division, Warrens Hdqrs., on the Weldon Railroad: The commanding general wishes you to communicate with General Warren, before making any serious movement, upon the appearance of a favorable opportunity. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff FIFTH ARMY CORPS SIGNAL STATION, October 2, 186411.40 a. m. General CRAWFORD: At 11 oclock the enemy moved four guns and twenty-five wagons to our right on the plank road. Their skirmishers have again fallen back and are now in the field north and east of the W. Davis honse. A battery in front of General Ayres opened upon the enemy and fired four or five shots. Respectfully, GEG. ~ CLARKE, Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 186411.50 a. m. General CRAWFORD, Globe Tavern: GENERAL: I placed General Bragg to hold the Vaughan road, and he must be instructed to do so; if he is driven away, to fall back upon your position. With this object in view, you may consider him still under your direct command. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN. (Copy to Major-General Humphreys, chief of staff.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 18647.40 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: What is the condition of things with you this morning~l A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staf Page 44 44 OPERATIONS IN 5Th VA. AND N. 0. (CIUP. LI~ HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 2, 18647.45 a. m. Major-General HUMPUREYS: Mott is now moving to take position on my left. As soon as he is in position I will advance the whole line. I have no word from Gregg since his report of last night. JNO. G. PARKE, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18649.30 a. rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Our skirmishers report the Pegram house unoccupied. We are now moving forward to occupy that position. Mott is moving out to the west and will connect with our line from the Pegram house. General Warren, finding no enemy in his immediate front except at the Davis house, and his line running all the way through woods, is withdrawing his troops from the line to advance with the right of mine. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, On Weldon Railroad, October 2, 186410.45 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: We are here on our way t6 your headquarters. Will remain a short time to see Crawford and then go out to you. What is the condition of things with you and Warren ~ A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 186411.30 a. m. Major-General HUMPHPEYS, Chief of Staff: Yours of 10.45 received. I have, as yet, no report from General Mott. I learn from one of niy own staff that he occupied, some time since, the enemys rifle-pits to the westward of the left of our position of yesterday. I judge little or no opposition. Some skirmishing now going on. I have a continual line of skirmishers from his front to the front of the Pegram house, which is now occupied by us. General Warren has moved Griffin up to the right of me and has gone out him- self to the front. General Ayres represents that the enemys sharp- shooters are concentrated about the W. Davis house. This is corrob- orated by report from signal station near Yellow Tavern, just received. A copy will be sent General Ayres. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 45 CH.& P. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 45 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 2, 18648.15 p. m. (Sent 8.30 p. in.) Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: Will TOll send a brief memorandum of what you have done to-day, with losses incurred and names of officers killed and wounded. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 186410.15 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: This morning General Motts division moved out on the Squirrel Level road, aiid after taking position on the left of the Ninth Corps the whole left of our line, which had been repaired during the night previ- ous, was advanced, and with it the left of the Fifth Corps. The move- ment resnlted in our reoccupying the Pegram house and extending our left to the westward from that point. The only opposition met was a skirmish [line] of the enemy until our extreme left, Motts division, caine upQn a battery in position. By my direction, General Mott deployed a brigade to develop the position and force of the enemy. It was found they had four guns in position, supported by infantry. This was accompanied by a slight loss on our part. The detailed report of losses has not yet been received. In the advance of General Mott in the morning he found line of the enemys rifle-pits extending off to the westward of Peebles as far as the cross-roads at J. Smiths, where the enemy had a strong redoubt surrounded by heavy slashing. In the afternoon we again retired, our left taking up the line from Pegrams, south of the Squirrel Level road. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18646.30 a. m. Major.General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Army Corps: GENERAL: I directed Generals Willeox and Potter to be ready to move at 7 oclock; also General Mott. General Mott is now here, and I am momentarily expecting Willeox and Potter. I will throw these divisions around to the righf, and Mott will pass to our left and con- nect with Willeox. As soon as these officers arrive I will go to your headquarters. Gregg reports that Hampton is in front of him with four brigades, aiid he expected to be attacked this morning. General Meade directs that I send him a brigade if he calls on me for support. yours, JNO. G. PARKE. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. General PARKE: I find in our advance to-day General Griffin obliqued so much to the left that ~ou will have to relieve his left brigade to enable him to con Page 46 [CHAP. LIV. 46 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. nect with General Ayres. This is of necessity. I shall come out along the line in the morning to correct errors and will, of course, come to see you. Show this to General Griffin. Respectfully, G.. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Major-General MOTT, Commanding Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding instructs me to say to you that he desires yon to see that yonr troops keep a sharp lookout on the enemy, and that they are up and nnder arms by daylight in the morn- ing. He reqnests also that you keep your picket-line well connected with the division on your right. General Gregg has just reported that he has two regiments of cavalry on our left, and the general command- ing desires you to ascertain their whereabouts and keep up connection between your pickets and the reserve cavalry pickets. The slashing in your front is to be continued. Lieutenant Remington is here, and will furnish any tools you may want. Respectfully, & c., JNO ~. ~YOUNGMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. 0. B. WILLUOX, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding instructs me to say to you that he desires you to keep a sharp lookout on the enemy and to see that your troops are up and under arms by daylight in the morning. He requests also that you keep your picket-line well connected with the divisions on your right and left and properly located. The slash- ing on your front is to be continued. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. YOUNGMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. Brigade commanders will see that the picket-line in their froQt is well established, and that they coi~nect on the right and left. The utmost vigilance is enjoined. Lieutenant Holway will furnish all the tools required to continue the slashing, & c. By command of Brigadier-General Willcox: JNO. D. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvISIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Aikens House, Va., October 2, 1864. Major BAIRD, Assistant Adjutant- General: Major-General Meade, on his way up, informed me that the right of my line had bceu driven in and part of it captured, and expressed hi Page 47 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 47 surprise that I had not received the information. I have just received the following report from my brigade commander: I have the honor to say that there was considerable firing just at daylight, and one post on the picket-line came in, but was immediately replaced by the officer in charge of that part of the line. No men were captured, and all is now quiet. C. S. RUSSELL, Colonel, Comma~~i~g Brigade. The general must have been misinformed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. FERRERO, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18642 a. m. Brigadier-General GREGG, Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say to you that lie has received instructions froiu headquarters Army of the Potomac to send you a brigade if you should call on him for support, and that he is prepared to do so if it becomes, in your j adgment, necessary. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. ~. YOUNGMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 186411.10 [a. in.]. General GREGG: I would like you to post a force at or near Miss Pegram~s, and to increase the cavalry force now on our left, to protect the left and rear of General Motts division. Yours, & c., JNO. G. PARKE, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 18648.30 p. m. General GREGG, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: I have just received your dispatch of this p. m. Am sorry I did not see you this evening, but I presume you got all the information as to the state of things from General Meade, and am glad to hear you have made your dispositions accordingly. When you went out on the Squirrel Level road you passed the left of our posi- tion of last evening. This is the left of our present line. Am sorry to trouble you too much, but I would be glad to see you to-morrow at your convenience. Very respectfully, yours, & c., JNO. G, PARKE, Major- General, Commanding Page 48 48 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. CHAP. MV. October 2, 18G412.30 a. m. CITY POINT, VA., Major-General BUTLER: I will send Barnard and Comstock np in the morning, but dont let this make any difference in your plans for to-morrow. General Meade will feel out in the morning to ascertain what is in his front at differ- ent points in his line, and if there is a chance for an attack on his left he will make it. His main object in feeling at different points in his front will be to ascertain whether the enemy has stripped any por- tion of his line. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 2, 18G49.45 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: Upon consultation with Generals Birney and Weitzel we are of opin- ion, from what we learn from the reconnaissance of yesterday, that we can go in with one corps, and certainly with both, by the Darbytown road and Charles City road. There are no troops there except the militia, composed of the employ6s of the several departments of the Government, and as we made two reconnaissances in that neighbor- hood, which are supposed by them to be cavalry reconnaissances only, their attention will be drawn from that place, especially if, as you be- lieve, Lee looks upon this as the feint and the real attack to be made on the south side. My judgment is that this plan is more hopeful thami any other, especially in view of the several attempts that have been made by the Army of the Potomac to turn the right and the want of successful accomplishment. To do this we ought to have a corps sent to take our place behind our skirmish line, on the line we now hold, while we advance. A corps can then hold that line, they marching in with the light of our fires and we marching out. 1 am very strongly of opinion that this plan would succeed, from the investigations I have made, aud I trust the lieutenant-general has confidence enough in my means of obtaining information that I am not deceived as to the facts. As the corps would not be expected to advance one step after they get their place, and as it is only about ten miles directly from Petersburg to the left of our line here, they might make the march in the early night, so as to let us out by 2 oclock in the morning, which would be sufficiently early. I have examined carefully the proposition of the lieutenant-general as to taking up a line to hold here with a single corps, and I find it very difficult, in view of the possible return of Early, to find a tenable line that would have any advantage over our line at Deep Bottom and Dutch Gap. BENJ. F. BUTLER Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS AT FRONT, October 2, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: General Birney desires mue to say the enemy are moving in strong force between him and the Darbytown road. R. V. W. HOWARD, Lieutenant- Colonel, die Page 49 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 49 HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 186112.35 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: The attack of the enemy on my skirmish line has been repulsed. The prisoners are from Picketts division and left the Bluff last night. They represent that a large force is advancing down the New Market road. Forces from Beauregard, Ewell, and nuder General Ewell. D. B. BIRNEY, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 2, 18611.10 p. m. Major-General BIRNEY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: Dispatch received. If the enemy run your flank, refuse your right down toward the New Market road, keeping Kautz well out on their flank and so move as they move, shortening the line between the New Market anti KingsLand roads if it becomes necessary. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, in the Field, October 2, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: There are no rebel troops passing to the right. They were only strengthening the picket-line on our right. F. MARTIN, Captain, & c. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, in the Field, Va., October 2, 1864. First Lient. William P. Shreve, commissary of musters, Tenth Army Corps, is announced as acting assistant adjutant-general of this corps. Capt. E. L. Ford will resume his duties as aide-de-camp. By command of Major-General Birney: E. L. FORD, Captain, Aide-de- Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field V Brigadier-General FOSTER, ~ a., October 2, 1864. Commanding & ~cond Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to inform you that you can relieve the Two hundred and third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers from duty at Deep Bottom, if you so desire it, by sending a smaller regiment to that post in its stead. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. L. FORD, 6aptain, Aide-de- Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. 4 R RVOL XLJJ~ ~T II Page 50 [CHAP. LIV. 50 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvISIoN, TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Capt. E. L. FORD, Actg. Asd. Adjt. Gen., lid qrs. Tenth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to inform YOU that I have decided to organize the troops of this command, on the arrival of the One hundred and twenty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops, into two brigades. The Seventh, Twenty-ninth, and Forty-fifth Regiments U. S. Colored Troops will constitute the First Brigade; the Eighth, Ninth, and One hundred and twenty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops, the Second Brigade. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. BJRNEY Brngadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS, October 2, 1864. Col. E. W. SMITH: I send you another rebel flag captured by a corporal of the First Division. It was not sent forward before because sent to the rear by some mistake. Corpi. Thomas Murphy, One hundred and fifty-eighth New York Volunteers, took the flag. Yery respectfully, THEODORE READ, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 186412 m. (Sent 2 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Yesterday, after my report, General Motts division advanced on the left and developed the enemys position, which was found to be a strong line of rifle-pits and batteries running in a southwesterly direction, evidently to cover the Boydton plank road and South Side Railroad. Finding I did not have the force to hold the position in case I secured it on the Boydton plank road, Mott was withdrawn and placed on the left and rear of the Ninth Corps, and the line occupied, extending our former line from Fort Wadsworth, on the Weldon railroad, to the Pegram house, a distance of about two and a half miles. The enemy offered no opposition to these movements, except keeping our skirmish line actively engaged advancing and retiring, and opening with artillery on such parts of onr lines as were exposed. The casualties were small, th ongh several officers were wounded on the skirmish line. Gen- eral Ayres, on Warrens right, advanced and took a small redoubt at the W. A. Davis house without great resistance, this work being part of the line previously taken from the enemy and in advance of the line subsequently held by them. It being not well placed for our purposes it was subsequently abandoned by Ayres when the final rectification of our line was made. We now hold securely to the Pegram house, with our left refused and the cavalry to the rear on the Vaughan and Duck- ing [Duncan] roads. The left is a little over a mile from the Boydton plank road, and believed to be not over two Iniles from the South Side Railroad. Generals Parke and Warren are busily occupied intrenchin Page 51 CHAP. lAY.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 51 in this position, and rendering it such that should the enemy turn the left they will have an available force to meet the movement. I send you two dispatches * from signal officers, showing the enemy are re-en- forcing and moving to their right, whether with a view to attempt to dislodge us or simply to resist an advance cannot at present be told. GEG. G. MEAPE, Major- General.. CITY POINT, VA., October 3, 186412 in. Major-General MEADE: I shall go to Washington to-morrow and see if I cannot devise means of getting promptly into the field the large number of recruits that I understand are now in depots all over the North. Will be gone three or four days. In my absence would like to have present lines held, if possible, but if necessity requires it, all or as much as is necessary west of the Weldon road may be abandoned. One corps, or as many troops. as possible, from the Army of the James, will beheld foot loose, to oper- ate on the defensive at any place threatened. General Butler, the. senior officer present, will command during my absence. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Copy to General Butler.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 3, 18643.30 p. in. (Sent 4 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I regret to learn that you are compelled to go to Washington. Am I to understand the forces north of the James are withdrawn or going to be l The holding a corps foot loose causes me to ask the question. Cannot Hancock be relieved up to the Jerusalem plank road, which would give me his two divisions as a reserve on the left and would make me quite secure l GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 186410 p. in. (Sent 10.30 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Nothing of importance has occurred to-day, excepting the driving in. of Parkes pickets in front of the Pegrain house, our extreme left, about 3 p. In.; the line was, however, immediately re established. My lines on the left are now so secure against any attack that I propose to- morrow to return Motts division to the Second Corps line. Itedoubts are being constructed on the new line not only in front but on the flank and in rear. I do not think the enemy will attempt to disturb us now. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. See Stryker to Humplireys anti Taylor to Fisher, p. ~3 Page 52 52 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. OCTOBER 3, 1864. [Major-General HUMPUREYS, Chief of Stail:] GENERAL: Inclosed report of deserters from Thirty-fifth North Car- olina was forwarded to you yesterday and returned again unknown to me until this moment.* A deserter from the same regiment has jnst been forwarded who came in on Saturday night. He reports the posi- tion of Johnsons division unchanged, lying from the Appomattox to the Buruside mine. He is certain that Hokes division went across the Appomattox last Thnrsday, but knows nothing about their returning. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. OCTOBER 3, 1864. Colonel STIARPE, City Point: Can locate Heth, Wilcox, Mahone, and Johnson. Cannot locate Hoke or Field with any certainty. Deserters from Thirty-fifth North Carolina, Ransoms brigade, say that Hoke moved northward last Thursday and was recalled the next day. Andersons brigade, of Fields division, is with Wilcox. Thomas brigade, of Wilcoxs division, is not here. Prisoners received so far represent all of Heths division and McGowans and Andersons brigades. J. C. B[ABCOCK]. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 3, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Deserter from Sixty-fourth Georgia, Wrights brigade, Mahones division, reports: That he came into the lines of the Third division, Ninth Army Corps, about daylight this morning. Brigade is lying near the Weldon railroad, east side, and is the extreme right of Mahones division. Moved to this position last Friday, at which time all of Mahones division moved considerably to the right. Thinks Colquitts brigade, of Hokes division, is lying in the trenches to the left of Mahone. Has friends in that brigade whom he saw last Friday. Wilcoxs division on right of M ahone. Dont know anything of Fields division. Has not seen it since 1st of September. Is not well posted regarding position and movements. All prisoners of war received to date represent Heths entire division and several regiments of Wilcoxs division, besides Andersons brigade, temporarily attached to Wilcoxs. Prisoners from every cavalry brigade excepting Wickham~s, Lomaxs, Chambliss, Garys, and Rossers. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. * See Babcock to Humphreys, 2d, 10 a. in., p. 37 Page 53 GEM. LIV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.dJNION. 53 IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIc~NAi. DEPARTMENT, October 3, 1864.. Major-General HUMPUREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following has just been received from the signal station near Jerusalem plank road, dated 10 a. in.: About 1,500 infantry with arms and knapsacks have in small parties left their works in vicinity of the Gregory Chimneys and point of woods to the left. Also they came from the works in edge of woods in rear of Gregorys Chimneys or to the right of the steeples and from some points farther to the right. They all appear t~ aim for some point in the road leading southward from Petersburg, but that road is not visible nntil it passes the lead-works. But few troops remain visible in th intrencliments and from the lead-works to beyond the Gregory Chimneys. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. STRYKEI~ Acting Chief Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186410.30 [a. in.]. Major FISHER: Just received the following report from Captain Thickstun: Over 300 men left the enemys front works between Norfolk railroad and plank road and passed toward large camp. Could not see whether they went farther to the left or not, as I could watch only one point at a time. A large number may have gone. TAYLOR. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18645 p. m. Major FISHER: All quiet this p. m. The following has been intercepted: Colonel BERENT]: No change this a. m. Two gun-boats above pontoon. Along the line all men have no arms; will come immediately for them to headquarters. B.F., At C. (Same to A. B.) HOLMAN, Sergeant. IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 3, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following message received from the plank road station is respectfully forwarded: 5.10 P. M. At 4.45 p. m. about 1,600 infantry and a section of artillery came up the road run- ning west from large fort (probably the Squirrel Level road) and marched southward on Weldon railroad. A dozen of mounted men followed the column of infantry, apparently bringing up the stragglers, of which there were about fitty. At 2 p. m. 150 infantry came from the direetion of Petersburg and halted in the point of woods Page 54 54 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. at the lead-works and pitched camp, and the smoke of camp-fires that rose from the woods approximating on the right would indicate that other and larger cami~~ were established abont the same time. A body of infantry, about 1,500, has been standing and banging on grouad all this p. m. in the woods midway between the lead-works and the large fort west of the Weldon railroad. They appear to have formed from a camp partly visible farther in the woods. All quiet. H. W. FULTON. The officer at the Avery house reports that at 5.30 p. m. the enemy were moving in promiscuous order from camp in the woods in the rear of their line toward their front works that it is the movement reported this a. m. reversed. In selecting points for stations along the left to-day, I observed that the present line of the enemy runs in front of Doctor Duvals house, extending thence toward Boisseans, but could not see it after it left the opening in which the Duval house is until it appeared in the open- ing of the Boisseau property, but concluded it was continuous. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief ASignal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 18616.45 p. m. (Sent 7.20 p. in.) Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade, City Point: The commanding general directs that you relieve the detachment of engineer troops in charge of the pontooii train of this army sent to City Point yesterday, and order them to move np to this place and report to Major Michler. You will assign troops to take charge of the train until the engineer troops here can resume it. A. A. IIUMPHREYS Major- General and Chief of & aff. CITY PoINT, October 3, 18648.30 p. m. (Received 9 p. in.) Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS: GENERAL: Your dispatch just received, and I will send a detach- ment out immediately to take charge of the train referred to, which I understand to be near Old Court-House. I shall order the men there to move up as directed at once, but as you may not design that they should move before morning, I telegraph you so that should you not mean them to move to-night your reply may probably reach me in time to stop them. II. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 1864. Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade: The engineer troops need not march until to-morrow morning. Major Michler said the pontoon train , as not, it should go there. - had gone to City Point - if it h A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-Gener1il and Chief of & aff Page 55 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 55 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18649 a4 m. General HUMPHREY 5: No change noticed in enemys line since last report. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, ]liliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. (Received 10 a. in.) General HUMPHIIEYS, Chief of Staff: The following report from Major Walsh is forw rded: HEADQUARTERS BATTALION THIRD PENNSYLVANIA CAvALRY,. October 3, 18648.45 a. m. Colonel MORGAN, Chief of Staff, Second Corps: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that since 6 oclock yesterday evening my pickets have been mucli annoyed by small parties of the enemy appearing in front and firing on the outposts. The largest party seen did not number over ten; at the same time small parties have been seen far inside of the outer pickets, and one of my camp guard was fired at from the thick woods at daylight this morning. All 15 perfectly quiet up to this. Respectfully, J. W. WALSH, 3fajor, Commanding Battalion Third Pennsylvania Cavalry. C. H. MORGAN, Colonel and Chi~f of Staff. [Indorsemetit.] I dont know that anything can be done with this. A. A. HUMPIIREXS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 18649.52 a. m. Major-General HANCOCK Commanding Second Corps: The commanding general wishes to know what that sharp musketry firing, with some artillery firing, was this morning about 2 oclock. General Ferrero reported it to be on his right. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186410.15 a. m. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: There must be some mistake. No firing was heard here, and the guard was specially instructed to give notice of any. The division commanders do not report any. The chief of artillery reports a few rounds fired from the mortars. The corps officer of the day, who slept in Fort Morton, says he heard no unusual firing. WlNFIJ S. HANCOCK, Major- General Page 56 56 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Comps, October 3, 186411.10 a. m. (Received 1115 a. in) General HUMPITREYS: It is reported that some 100 men have this morning moved from the line in my front toward our left. The signal officer saw 300. Captain Ham, artillery officer, thinks about 600 moved. I have sent down on the line for reports of all movements observed. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186412 m. Major-General MEADE: GENERAL: I have just come from telescope on top of Avery house. The second line of the enemys works is filled with troops. The small parties which left the front line about 9 oclock went to the rear to the encampment, but from there they could not be seen to pass. It has been the habit heretofore to put in the front line at one hour before daylight all the convalescents, militia from the town, and relieve them at 9 a. m. This may be the case now. The movement was by squads and in full sight, which was unusual. The tents of the enemy are up in the second line. General Miles, on our right, has been watching on his lines, but says he observes no changes. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. (Received 5.40 p. in.) General HUMPITREYS: Major Walsh, commanding the battalion Third Pennsylvania Cav- alry, says his pickets at the junction of stage and City Point roads were fired on again at 1 p. in. Colonel Collis says this point is on the extreme left of Major Walshs line, and is on the road mostly use(l by the enemys scouts, and thinks it should be guarded from City Point. WINFD S. HANCOCK, ]lfajDr- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC October 3, 18646.50 p. m. Major~General HANCOCK, tiommanding AS~eeond Corps: The junction of the stage road and City Point road is about one mile and a half from Prince George Court-House and at least four miles from Old Court-House. There is no cavalry at City Point to send there. A detachment of Major Walshs cavalry at that junction and one toward Mount Sinai Church would watch the main avenues of approach, which is all that can be done in that direction. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General and Chief of staff Page 57 Cwi~. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 57 CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRPS, October 3, 1864. It was ascertained by inspection this morning that a considerable part of the First and Second Divisions were not nnder arms at day- light. A situation where this precaution is more imperatively called for can hardly be imagined. iDivision commanders will have a staff officer on the line each morning to see that at early dawn. the troops are placed under arms By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BINGUAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and A eting Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGUAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance occurred on this line dnring yesterday. it is reported that the 8-inch columbiad to our left and front of Fort Morton is again in position. A few rounds were fired-by the mortar battery and also from Fort Davis in reply to the enemy. No casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. (Copy to Capt. John IN. Craig, assistant adjutant-general, artillery headquarters, Army of the Potomac.) HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN GIBBON, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding understands that you have about 760 muskets in Fort Davis, under Colonel Smyth. The maximum garrison of that fort is 550 men. The general desires that you put at least 200 of the garrison in the second line in rear of Fort Sedgwick, placing them so as to give a flank fire on the ground between Fort Davis and Fort Sedgwick. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~ HANCOCK, Major- General of Volunteers. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. THIRD DIvISIoN, SECOND ARMY CoRPN, October 3, 1864. Brigade commanders will keep their commands well in hand, vigilant to the utmost, and under arms at daylight. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FJNKELMEIER, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 58 58 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, - October 3, 18641.30 a. m. Major-General WARREN: I hear considerable musketry firing and some artillery near here~ apparently on Crawfords front. Do you know anything yet, and have you sent the brigade I spoke to you about ~ GEO. G. MEADE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18642 a. in. General MEADE: I believe the firing just heard was not in front of Crawford, but more to the right. It has ceased now, except slight picket-firing. Craw- fords is as strong as any part of my line. I have not sent the brigade, and probably shall not be able to. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. IUEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAc, October 3, 186111.20 a. in. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: The major-general commanding directs that you send a ~brigade to General Crawford before night, to be used on the line between Fort Wadsworth and Fort Howard. A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I will send Colonel llofmanns brigade back as soon as I can get arrangements completed to do it. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 186412.50 p. in. (Seub 1.25 p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: In consequence of the information received from signal officers of the movements of enemys troops, the order to send a brigade to Crawford is suspended. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Stag. P. S.I did not know until just now you had returned to your head- Quarters on railroad, hence my telegram to General Crawford. A.A.H Page 59 CHAP. LIV.] COl~RESPONPI~NCE, ETC.ITNION. 59 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18642 p. m. (Received 3 p. in.) Major-General HUMPUREYS: I am at th~ place where our line crosses the Sqnirrel Level road and have been on the line all day; not at my old headquarters. iLhs- patches to General Parkes headquarters are near to me. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186411.40 p. m. (Received 12.25 a. in. 4th.) Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The officer of pickets of Second Division reports as fov lows: The men on the line report the movement of a column of infantry (judged to be a brigade) and three pieces of artillery toward our right. There has been consider- able noise and cheering on the enemys line this evening. Above was forwarded from Genera] Ayres headquarters at 10 p. m. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186412.30 p. m. General GRIFFIN: GENERAL: As soon as General Bartletts brigade is relieved by Gen- eral Parke I wish it placed on the right of General Gregorys brigade, along the slashing cnt through. They need not occupy a continuous line, which would put some of them in hollows, but only the ridge por- tions of the line, leaving intervals unoccupied. This, with the slashing, will be secure enough. I shall be found on the Squirrel Level road at General Ayres position. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Before Petersburg, Va., October 3, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. D. TOWNSEND, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department of War, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to recommend for promotion Col. E. M. Gregory, Ninety-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Col. James Gwyn, One hundred and eighteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanding respectively the Second and Third Brigades of this division, for gallant conduct displayed by them the 30th of September ultimo. The bravery and valor evinced by them and their commands in the operations of that day have not been excelled in any action during the war, and I respectfully request that if the commission of brigadier-general canno Page 60 60 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. be awarded them, that at least the brevet of that rank may be conferred as an honorable notice of meritorious service, and that deeds of bravery and faithful service may be encouraged. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. GRIFFIN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISIoN, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Before Petersburg, Va., October 3, 1864. I3vt. Brig. Gen. W. S. TILTON, Commanding Twenty-second Jliliassachusetts Volunteers: GENERAL: As your regiment leaves the army on the 5th instant by reason of expiration of term of service, I desire to express to you, your officers, and men, my satisfaction at the manner you have conducted yourselves since I have commanded the division in every circumstance of trial and danger. The valuable and efficient service you have ren- dered your country during the past three years of its eventful history is deserving of its gratitude and praise. You leave the army with an enviable record and with the regrets of your comrades at parting with you. Sincerely, yours, CHAS. GRIFFIN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18647 p. m. Brigadier.General AYRES, Commanding Second Division: The major-general commanding directs that you send Colonel ilof- manns brigade at daybreak to-morrow morning to report here. Please acknowledge receipt. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FiFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Headquarters Pifth Army Corps: COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your orde~ directing Colonel llofmanns brigade to leave me at daybreak to-morrow morning. In the meantime I had sent it, pursuant to verbal instruc- tions from General Warren. It left about dark. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. AYRES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 61 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 61 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Brigadier-Genera] CRAWFORD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The signal officer reports that a force of enemys infantry, about 2,000 strong, with one gun, one wagon, and six ambulances, passed to our left this morning on plank road; honr, 8.15 a. m. General Warren has gone to the front. The Fiftieth New York Engineers arrived last night and moved off this morning on General Braggs line to commence a line of defenses in that direction. There is nothing new from the front. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 186411.20 a. m. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding on the IVeldon Railroad: Major-General Warren is directed to send you a brigade before night to strengthen the line on the right of Fort Wadsworth. Upon its arrival you will let General Ferrero close in on his right and strengthen his line, and put the brigade General Warren sends in the rifle pits on the right of Fort Wadsworth, or if you can arrange it more advanta- geously by putting the brigade in reserve, so as to support the line promptly between Fort Davis and Fort Wadsworth, do so. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 1864. (Sent 12 in.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Division, Weldon Railroad: Let me know what disposition you propose to make of the brigade General Warren will send you before posting it. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIYISIoN, FIFTH CORPS, Signal Station, October 3, 18641.05 p. m. [Major-General IIuMPHREYs:] GENERAL: Your dispatch received. When Ferrero moves to the right I will move the One hundred and eighty-fifth ~ ew York into the intrenchments he vacates. Colonel Sergeant, with the Two hundred and tenth Pennsylvania, will close on the left of the One hundred and eighty-fifth, and the brigade sent by General Warren will not only furnish ample troops between the left of the Two hundred and tenth and Fort Wadsworth but will give a small reserve. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, 5~ W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Third Division. Does this meet your approval Page 62 62 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAr. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 186419.5Ojp.rn. (Sent 2 p.m.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Dsvi~& ton: The order to send you a brigade is suspended. A. A. IIUMPHREYS ill ajor- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. Colonel SERGEANT, Commanding 210th Pennsylvania Volunteers: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that you remain in your present camp to-night, and move out at 5.30 a. m. to-morrow to join General Ayres on the Squirrel Level road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant. General. (Copy for commanding officer Third Division.) HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General PARKE: GENERAL: I have received orders to send a brigade back to the right of Fort Wadsworth, and I must ask you to replace General Griffins left brigade at once so that I can do it. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. P. S.As soon as you can spare me some of my axes back I should like to have them. G. K. W. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18641.15 p. m. Major-General WARREN: GENERAL: I have just received your dispatch of 12.30 p. in., and will have the brigade of General Griffin relieved at once. I will return you your axes as soon as possible. Respectfully, yours, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 245. 5 October 3, 1864. * * * * * * * II. The Two hundred and tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. Will- iam - Sergeant commanding, is assigned to the Second Division, an Page 63 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 63 will report to Brigadier-General Ayres, commanding. Colonel Sergeant will hold himself in readiness to join his division this evening as soon as relieved by Colonel llofmanns brigade. III. The One hundred and eighty-fifth Regiment New York Volun- teers, Colonel Jenney commanding, is assigned to the First Division, and will report to Brigadier-General Griffin, commanding. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE0 ~.1ssistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 18645.20 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: What is the position of your corps and the condition of the intrench- ments you are making0? Can the commanding general withdraw the division of the Second Corps and return it to its corps without impair- ing the security of your position 0? General Meade would like to hear from you in reply before going to City Point. He will start as soon as a ~ar can take him. A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18645.50 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: The two divisions of my corps now occupy the line from Warrens left down to a point west of Peebles. We, to-day, relieved one brigade of Gelleral Griffins, Fifth Corps, so that we have now one brigade on the right of the Pegram house. From the Peebles to the Clements house I have two brigades of Motts and one in reserve. The rifle-pit is completed, but slashing is not. The redoubt is not complete. We have 600 men at work day and night. I would not feel secure after Motts division is withdrawn. I would respectfully suggest that a redoubt be constructed at or near the Clements house. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 3, 18648 p. m. (Sent 8.15 p. in.) Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The commanding general desires you to have the intrenchments, slashing, & c., pushed forward as rapidly as possible, working all the men you can. The redoubt at Clements house will be put up and one in the rear to close the position. Major Michler is instructed to employ all the engineer officers and troops upon the work. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 64 64 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA, AND N. C. [Oxiir, LIV. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 18649.15 p. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Received your dispatch of 8 p. m. I will have the work upon the intrenchments pushed as rapidly as possible. Reports of signal officer received. I have just received a report from our scouts that they saw considerable commotion in enemys lines. I think all these reports go to show that the enemy is adjusting his force to meet the new condition of things. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1864. Capt. C. J. MILLS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Scouts sent out by General llartranft went out nearly one mile to the west and found nothing. Respectfully, 0. B. WILLCOX, Briqadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 3, 18649 a. m. Maj. Gen. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Chief of StajJ Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have advanced my line to the position held yesterday before the attack in the afternoon. The enemy have a strong position beyond and at the Cummings house. The position now held by the enemy covers the crossing of the Rowanty, and also the cross-road to Armstrongs, on the telegraph road. The loss in Davies brigade yes- terday afternoon was about 90; over 50 missing. Respectfully, your obedient servant, D. McM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding Second Division. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SECOND DIV., CAVALRY CORPS, No. 100. 5 October 3, 1864. 1. Capt. A. H. Bibber, First Maine Cavalry, is hereby announced as acting assistant adjutant-general of this division. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly. 2. Maj. B. F. Tucker, First Maine Cavalry, is hereby assigned to duty as commander of Dismounted Camp, and will relieve Capt. A. H. Bibber, First Maine. By command of Brigadier-General Gregg: II. C. WEIR, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 65 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 65 WAn DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 8, 186412.30 p. m Major-General BUTLER: I have directed Adjutant-General Thomas to bring up 5,000 negro troops from Kentucky, who are said to be superior to any others that he has organized in the South, arid to take them to your command. He leaves Washington for that purpose to-day, and has orders to hasten them forward with all dispatch. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, Near Junction of Varina and New Market Roads, October 3, 18647.45 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Dispatch relative to the negro troops received. I told you they would do well in my department. My colored troops under General Paine, 2,500 strong, carried intrenchments at the point of the bayonet that in a former movement across the river stopped double their number. It was most gallantly done, with most severe loss. Their praises are in the mouth of every officer in this army. Treated fairly and disciplined, they have fought most heroically. I have received a letter from Gap- taiii Smith, of the Navy, proposing to Ould an exchange of naval pris- oners independently of our commissioner? There have been many negroes captured from the Navy, who are thus abandoned to their fate. Is it not possible for the Government to have a policy ~ If Sherman exchaiiges at Atlanta, if Foster at Charleston, if Canby at New Orleans, and Rosecrans in Missouri, then I do not see why we should not exchange here. Our soldiers will not be too well pleased to hear that sailors can and soldiers cannot be exchanged. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 3, 186411.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: All quiet during the night. An attempt was made on Kautz~s and Birneys pickets, on the Darbytown and New Market roads, last even- ing, which was easily repulsed, and by Birney with the capture of seven- teen vrisoners. Lieutenant Michie is at work on the new line with 1,000 colored troops. Will you telegraph to the Secretary of War for a brevet majority for Michie in his corps I I wish him as my chief engineer. If gallant, unwearied, and most meritorious services are ever deserving they are in his case. Also, an order that he be put on duty in his brevet rank. I have set Ludlows extra men at Dutch Gap at work on the re- doubt on Signal Hill near him. Four regiments of Picketts division are over here from the Bermuda line between Appomattox and James, leaving about 2,500 men there. I believe I could break through on the left with 3.000 negroes. Can we not have the other corps here I B. F. BUTLER, Major- (len erat, Gommanding. 5 R RVOL XLII, PT II Page 66 66 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CUAP. LIV. CITY POINT~ VA., October 2 [3], 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: Your dispatch received. Send me a list of all the promotions by brevet and otherwise that you would like made from your comman(l, stating the particular services for which brevets are asked, and I xviii take pleasure in recommending them. General Sherman is preparing such a list from his army and General Meade has already sent one from his. In the matter of breaking the enemys lines as suggested by you, I think it practicable, but think that will keel). To bring any troops from the left, a good long line now held must be abandoned. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 3, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: If all remains quiet, I shall go to Washington to-morrow. I send you copy of dispatch to General Meade, which explains what I want done.* As much of present foothold north of the James as can be held I want held. Please telegraph me the sitnation of affairs daily. I wrote a letter to General Lee, in reply to one from him, which has not yet been answered. Should this or any communication come from inside the rebel lines, directed to me, in my absence, direct i-t to be received and sent to you. You will be at liberty to opeii any such communication, and to act if immediate action is required. I would prefer, however, my absence should not be known across the lines. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Near Junction of New Market and Varina Roads, October 3, 18641.05 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Dispatch received. Will send forward a list of deserving officers. We will hold where we are. Will keep you advised daily and oftener if anything happens of interest. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 3, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: A dispatch is just received from Sheridan up to the 1st instant. The enemy have entirely left his front and come to Charlottesville and Gor- donsville. He cannot reach them, so that we may now confidently expect the return here of at least Kershaws (livision an(l Rossers cav- alry. It will require very close watching to prevent being surprised by the re-enforcement. I will have 40,000 re-enforcements here in ten days. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. See Grant to Meade, 12 in., p. 51 Page 67 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 67 HEADQUARTERS, October 3, 18647.30 p. m. Lieatenant-General GRANT: Dispatch relating to Sheridan received. Will watch with the utmost vigilance. Can we i~ot have the Nineteenth Corps ~ All quiet to-night. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Jfit,or- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 3, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: The Nineteenth will come here. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, New Market Road, October 3, 1861. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the James: COLONEL: I have the honor to recommend for promotion by brevet rank as brigadier-generals the following officers. I make this recom- mendation as a reward for their gallantry and efficient services, during the movements of this corps since I have had the honor to command it. I must also ask that they be assigned to the command of brigades in the corps by their brevet rank: N. Martin Curtis, colonel One hundred and forty-second New York Volunteers; Alvin C. Voris colonel Sixty- seventh Ohio Volunteers; F. A. Osborn, colonel Twenty1fourth Massa- chusetts; also Richard H. Jackson, lieutenant-colonel kind assistant inspector-general, chief of artillery, commanding the Artillery Brigade of the corps. Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson is also a captain in First U. S. Artillery. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. B. BIRNEY, illiajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 3, 1864. Major-General BIRNEY, c~ommanding Tenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you relieve the First Maryland Cavalry from duty with the Tenth Army Corps, and direct the commanding officer to report for orders to Brigadier- General Kautz, commanding Cavalry Division. Respectfully, El). NY. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 68 68 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. SPECiAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 142. ) In the Field, Va., October 3, 1864. 1. The One hundred and twenty-seventh Regiment U. S. Colored Troops, having reported for duty, is hereby assigned to the First Bri- gade, Third Division. The commanding officer will report to Brig. Gen. William Birney, commanding. By command of Major-General Birney: WM. P. SHREVE, First Licut., Commissary of Musters and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HDQRS. PROVISIONAL BRIGADE, ARMY OF THE JAMES, DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, October 3, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER BATTERY PARSONS: SIR: Deserters who came in this morning having reported that the enemy have already dismounted one gun in the Howlett battery, and are about moving others for the purpose of taking them further up the river, the colonel commanding directs me to instruct you to watch their movements closely, and if possible prevent the removal of the guns. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES A. CARLETON, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS SEPARATE BRIGADE, No. 24. Thrt Pocahontas, Va., October 3, 1864. In compliance with the orders of the major-general commanding the department, dated October 1, 1864, directing me to turn over my coin- mand to my most experienced officer, I hereby assign Lieut. Col. J. N. Patterson, Second Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers, to the com- mand of this Separate Brigade. GILMAN MARSTON, Brigadier- General. [OCTOBER 4,11864.For Grant to Halleck and Halleck to Meigs, in relation to movement of Sixth and Nineteenth Army Corps to City Point, see Vol. XLIII, Part II.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 1864. Brigadier-General RAWLINS: I have iiothing of importance to communicate to the lieutenant-gen- eral commanding. Deserters and refugees in this moridug, together with reports of signal officers, would iiidicate no change in the enemys position in my front, and no movement on their part up to 8 p. m. last evening. One deserter from Scales brigade, Wilcoxs division, stated his brigade had returned day before yesterday from Chaffiu~s farm. I do not see where Lee can get re-enforcements to attack General Butler. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General Page 69 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 69 CITY PoINT, October 4, 1864. (Received 10.30 a. in.) Major-General MEADE: I have changed my mind about going to Washington to-day; will put it off for several days. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. (Same to General Butler.) hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 186411 a. rn. (Sent 11.20 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Every part of my line is reported quiet, and no indications of move- ments beyond the accompanying dispatch from signal officers. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. [Inclosure.] HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 4, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following dispatch from the plank road station is respectfully forwarded: 8.30 A. M. The body of infantry reported last evening as standing in the edge of woods mid- way between large fort west ot the Weldon rai1ro-~ (1 add the lead-works is not visi- ble this morning, and no indications of their being encamped in the woods. Most of the camps in vicinity of large fort are broken up and but little stir at that point. The enemy has thrown up an additional earth-work in front of the crater ula(le by the mine. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FJSTIER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. CITY POINT, VA., October 4, 1864. (Received 11 p. in.) Major-General MEADE: I find that General Benham has got little or no work done yet on the line of fortifications he was directed to build. I have directed less elaborate works than he contemplated to be speedily thrown np. Until they are done this place is in danger of a cavalry raid, particularly if the enemys cavalry returns here before we get ours back. I would like to have daily scouting parties sent to the southeast to s~e that no movement is being made. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Generat Page 70 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. 70 [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFiCE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 4, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Deserter from Mahones division (Harris brigade, Six- teenth Mississippi Regiment) came into General Ferreros lines about 9 p. m. yesterday. No change in the position of Mahones division. Informant is unintelligent and can give no information of importance. Information from Colonel Sharpe to the effect that ilokes and Fields divisions are at Chaffins farm, with a regiment from each brigade of Picketts division. Whole number of prisoners of war received during present operations has been 498 officers and men. Prisoners taken by General Butler have been from Clingmans brigade, of liokes division; Fultons brigade, of Johnsons division; Greggs and Bennings bri- gades, of Fields division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October -4, 1864. (Sent 2.30 p. in.) Colonel SHARPE, Deputy Provost-Marshal- General, City Point: The commanding general wishes to know whether General Butler has sent in any prisoners or deserters from ileths division or other part of Hills corps. Major- A.A. HIJMPHREYS, CITY POINT, October -1, 18645.10 p. m. General HUMPHREYS: General Butler has sent in no prisoners or deserters from any division of A. P. Hills corps. The prisoners he has sent in are from Law,Gregg, and Benning, of Fields division; Cliugman, Martin, and Colquitt, of Heths division, and F ultons (Tennessee) brigade, which was detached from Johnsons division and lying on north side of James before present operations. Besides these there are four nubrigaded battalions repre- sented. I have found nothing to indicate that any part of Hills corps was on the north side of the James. GEO. H. SHAIRPE, Colonel, & e. CITY POINT, October 4, 1864. Lieutenan4 DAVENPORT, General Butlers Staff: We can locate Heth, Wilcox, Mahone, and Johnson. Andersons brigade, of Fields division, is with Wilcox, and Thomas brigade, ot Wilcoxs, is not on our front. General Shepley sends word that refu- gees from Weldon state that two brigades of Picketts division passe Page 71 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 71 through Weldon to Georgia last Wednesday, and that the rebels are building railroad from Stony Creek to Danville railroad. Do you account for all of Pickett~ SHAIRPE, Colonel. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMEs, October 4, 1864. (Received 10.40 p. in.) Colonel SHARPE, City Point: I have in the front here Fields and Hokes divisions, Bnshrod John- sons old brigade, City Battalion, and all the local defense troops, also one regiment from each of Picketts brigades. Thomas is on south side of James, where he has always been. Scales was here, but returned day before yesterday. I think Picketts brigades are all in our front be- tween Appomattox and James. Shall go to old headquarters in the morning and find out by personal examination of men there not sent here. JOHN I. DAVENPORT, Lieutenant, Aide-dc- Cramp an ci A ssistant Provost-Marshal. HDQRs. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 4, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: There have been no movements seen this p. m. excepting about 500 men joined each other in small squads in the vicinity of the Weldon railroad, south-southWest from the lead-works, and moved toward our left at 4.30 p. m. North of the Appomattox forty-five wagons were seen coining toward Petersburg. I have one station near the Pegramn house overlooking the enemys lines in the vicinity of the Boissean property. This is in charge of the Ninth Corps officer; one is being put up along General Ayres front. Have not yet located one on the left and rear. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISIIEIR, Major and Chief Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Holman reports all quiet this p. m. He intercepted the following message: Colonel B[RENT]. Report of observation in front of Stenarts brigade, as follows: Wagons were pass- ingtoandfro; one company of infantry (irilling in rear of their lower breast-works; one steamer went up the J~ mes River with the dredging-machine in tow followed by a small steamer. nd stopped at Dutch Gap. J. B. ANI) A. C. (Same to A. B. Page 72 72 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LLV. Jordan reports that the enemy are bnilding a new fort to onr right of town. Captain Thickstnn reports the enemy at work to-day at point reported yesterday. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, October 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. II. W. BENHAM, Commanding Volunteer Engineers: The lieutenant-general commanding desires that citizens should not be allowed to come throngh yonr picket-line, as such permission would offer greater facilities for gaining information about City Point and for planning a cavalry raid on this place. Very respectfully, C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMX OF THE PoToMAc, October 4, 1864. (Sent 2.29 p. in.) Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade, City Point: The commanding general learns that yon have had three regiments added to your force and desires that yon will press the construction of the redonbts on the inner line inclosing City Point to completion as rapidly as possible. The connecting rifle-pits can be thrown np at some other time. The object now is to prevent a cavalry dash, which the redoubts will do. The commanding general needs the services of all troops on the iutrenchments at the front, and yom will let him know as soon as your redoubts are in condition to enable you to dispense with the services of the three regiments referred to. A. A. JIUMPIIREYS, llfajor- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, October 4, 1864. (Received 11.30 p. in.) General HUMPHREYS: The third regiment I have received reported last night and has been getting its shelters to-day; the other two, at Old Court-House, with the two brigades they relieved, varying from 1,200 to 1,600 men, besides having one-fourth or more on picket duty, were occupied last week in slashing the wood down for Major Michler and myself one or two days, as reported to me ,1. 000 or more a day being called for by the major. I have had nearly all the laying ont to do, not having the two engi- neer officers that Major Michler expected to send me on Thursday, and I have the trace complete north of the railroad and some of the profiles up, and expect to have all the old engineer troops and most of these new regiments on the redoubts to-morrow and continuonsly afterward, expecting soon to be able to see Major Michler to learn his line an Page 73 CHAP. Li~] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 73 make my connection. Since writing the above I learn the lieutenant- general wishes to have the work arranged for in four days with three- foot parapets for redonbts and simple breast-works between, and I shall endeavor to have this done. H. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. DETACHMENT FIFTIETH NEW YORK ENGINEERS, Near Weldon Railroad, October 4, 1864. Brig. Gem H. W. BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade: GENERAL: I am directed by General Meade to bring every available man of my command to the front, and to request that you will furnish a guard for the pontoon trains until the emergency is over, if it will suit you to guard them where they are, and you think they are safe there, I should prefer to let them remain in their present camps, as the corrals are all built there for the security of the animals. Major Ford will consult with you on the subject. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. SPAULDING, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Prince George Court-ionse, October 4, 18648.45 a. m. Lieut. Col. C. H. MORGAN, Chief of Staff: I have the honor to report all quiet along my line. No enemy seen except one or two scouts last evening. I would state that having been here since Friday morning, and having no relief for my pickets, the men are becoming worn out for want of sleep, and being all recruits are not to be relied upon. My horses have not been unsaddled, except while being groomed, since coming here. I have but one officer beside myself, which, together with the duty and responsibility, make it very fatiguing. Very respectfully, J. W. WALSH, Major, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 4, 18649 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Nothing new reported from my line at this hour. Three coutrabands from Sussex caine in this morning. They saw no force of the enemy while on the way. They caine up the Norfolk railroad the latter part of the way. WINFD S. HANCOCK. Major. General Page 74 74 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CnAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 186412 m. Major. General HANCOCK, Gommanding AS~econd Corps: General Gregg is directed to send 200 cavalry to relieve Major Walsh. The commanding officer of the detachment will report to you. Major Walsh will return to headquarters upon being relieved. A. A. HUMPHREYS ]IMjor- General and Chief of Staft HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE. SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGUAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that during the past twenty-four hours a few movements of small bodies of the enemys troops toward their right were discovered. The largest body, of about 500 or 600, was seen in front of Fort Rice, but at too great a distance for our artillery to open on them. The line was unusually quiet yesterday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, ]Jft~jor, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST l)IYISIOX, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGUAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant. General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to state that the firing in front of this division this evening did not proceed from any attack, and was between the pickets only. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON A. MILES, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIRST DIv., FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 138. October 4, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. The One hundred and eighty-fifth Regiment New York Volunteers, Colonel Jenney commanding, having reported in compliance with Special Orders, No. 245, from headquarters Fifth Corps, is assigned to the First Brigade, Colonel Sickel commaiiding. By command of Brigadier-General Griffin: GEG. MONTEITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 75 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 75 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of & aff: All is qniet along my lines. Picket-firing continuous at the north- west angle of our picket-line. I have details at work on the redoubts at Pegrams and Clements house, and I have furnished Captain liar- wood, U. S. Engineers, with details for work on the rear line. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADOITARTER,S NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 18649.15 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chiff 0/ A~ta~: General Gregg is now here and desires to know if there are any changes in his orders. He wishes to establish a camp so that his regi- ments, not on duty, may unsaddle. His picket-line is established on the road leading to Hawks, in sight, and within carbine shot of the enemys works, down the Squirrel Level road to its intersection with the Vaughanroad at Wilkinsons, with vedettes in front of Squirrel Level road; pickets toward Dinwiddie and Reams Station. The cavalry not on picket to be posted at J. Davis, the intersection of the Wyatt and Vaughan roads, where the ground is sufficiently open to make camps and unsaddle. J. l)avis is about one mile and a half from Poplar Spring Church. Please answer, so that he may establish his camp as soon as possible in order that he may relieve and unsaddle the horses not on duty. JNO. G. PARKE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 186410.20 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: Your dispatch concerning General Gregg is received. The part respecting picket-line was not clear, and I have asked the telegraph operator to repeat it. The general disposition of his force, as proposed by General Gregg, is approved by the commanding general, and Gen- eral Gregg will carry out his proposition. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of ~3taff. (Copy to General Gregg.) HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. (Received 3.30 p. in.) General HUMPIIREYS: The firing was occasioned by the enemy making a dash on our pick- ets to take a house northwest from the Pegram house. Our men were driven back, but the line has been re-established. The artillery firing was mainly ou~ own guns. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 76 76 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LW. HEADQUARTERS NiNTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 18644.30 p. m. Major-General HUMPUREYS: The affair of pickets is over. I shall burn the little white house to prevent further disturbance. The following is the report of the signal officer: GENERAL: The firing has developed the enemy along their line in considerable larger force than there have beretotore appeared. Their tents along as far as can be seen are not struck and there appears no indications of their intending to move out of their works. They are standing under arms with artillery run out. Not more than one piece can be seen in any one place. It appears extended at intervals along their front. The excitement evidently originated exclusively with the pickets. J. C. PAINE, Captain and Signal Officer. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. P. S.Signal station is on my west front south of Pegrams. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. General HUMPUREYS: I send a prisoner from Eleventh North Carolina, MacRaes brigade, captured this eve in the affair of skirmishers. He brings a Petersburg paper of the 3d, which states that General Dunovant, commanding Butlers old brigade, was killed; also Colonel Bookter and Stuarts old medical director, Doctor Fontaine; two colonels wounded. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS F1RNT DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. Col. SAMUEL HARRIMAN, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you occupy the new line of works, which was commenced this afternoon, by a full line of battle. You will see that the troops are moved forward immediately if it has not already been done. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. D. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SEcoND BRIG., FIR ST DIV., NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 4, 18642 p. m. Captain YOUNGMAN, Assistant A~jutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: Five scouts sent out from the Second Brigade, First Division, were fired upon by the enemy, killing one man (a sergeant) and taking three prisoners. One of the party returned. The enemys line of pickets (the scouts report) are beyond the woods, in the clearing. This clearing, I presume, is to the right of the front, facing westward, say opposite the four guns on the left of Ninth Corps. I am, yours, & c., J. F. HARTRANFT, Corps Officer of the Day Page 77 CUA2. LIV.] CORRESPO~DENCJ~, ETC.UNION. 77 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4 1 Brigadier-General GREGG, 86412 m. Commanding Cavalry: The commanding general directs that you send a detachment of 200 cavalry to relieve Major Walsh, corn manding cavalry detachment, from provost-marshal-generals command who is at Prince George Court- House, watching the Norfolk stage road and roads from Prince George Court-House. The commanding officer of the detachment will report to Major-General Hancock, comnianding Second Corps, headquarters at Deserted House, back of Avery house. A. A. HUMPHJ~EYS, Major-General and Chief of staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. D. MuM. GREGG, Commanding Cavalry: GENERAL: Jn answer to your letter of this morning I have the honor to state that the following are the regiments, their strength, present for duty, and their present armament, of the four regiments of dis- mounted cavalry now with this army serving as infantry, viz: Second New York Mounted Rifles, Ninth Corpspresent for duty, 16 officers, 2:i9 enlisted men, armed with Springfield muskets, equipped as infantry; Twenty-fourth New York Cavalry, Ninth Corpspresent for duty, 10 officers, 334 enlisted men, armed with Star carbines, equipped as infantry; Twenty-first Pennsylvania Cavalry, Fifth Corpspresent for duty, 21 officers, 632 enlisted men, armed with muskets; Thirteenth Ohio Cavalry, Ninth Corpspresent for duty, 6 commissioned officers, 337 enlisted men, armed with Springfield muskets, equipped as infantry. It will be well for the ordnance officer of your division to make the necessary requisitions for the ar~nameiit and equipment of these four regiments. No equisitions have been seiit in by the regimental corn- man ders. The regiments will be sent to the Dismounted Camp when- ever you report that you are ready to receive them, or any of them. They are now holdiiig positions in the line, and it is desirable that they should not be withdrawn until you are prepared to remount and equip them as cavalry. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Near Varina, October 4, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Telegram received,* All quiet in my lines. Have moved my head- quarters near Yarmna. Have a good wharf at Yarina to land horses. Should be pleased to have you ride up and visit us. Can show you a new rebel line which shows we were not a moment too soon. Ought we not to make that move before Early gets up ~ BENJ. F. BUTLER, _______________________ 1rc~jor- General, Commanding. See Grant to Meade and Butler, beginningI have ehaiiged may mind, p. 69 Page 78 78 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CITY POINT, VA., October 4, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Varina: I will be up to see you in the morning. The difficulty of holding more than we now have, I think, should keep us from fukther offensive operations until we get more men. We will have at least 30,000 addi- tional veteran troops in the next ten days, besides all the new troops that may come. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 4, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I see the correspondent (II. J. W.) of the New York Times states that 2,000 negroes of Burnhams brigade charged into a ditch in front of one of the rebel works and not one of them returned. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. OLD HEADQUARTERS, Near Point of Rocks, October 4, 186411.30 p. m. (Received 12.55 p. in.) Colonel KENSEL, Chief of Staff: Train of seven cars toward Petersburg with few troops on board. SEALY, - Assistant Ai~jutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Signal Station, October 4, 1864. Captain SEALY, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: The following message has just been received from Spring Hill signal station: 2.30 p~ ivi. Captain CLUM: A train of ten cars with a few troops on hoard going toward Richmond. All quiet on enemys lines. No working parties at work. SIMONS, Lieetenant and Acling Signal Officer. Very respectfully, & c., GEG. F. YOUNG, Acting Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 4, 1864. Major-General BIRNEY, Gommanding, & c.: I am about to move my headquarters to near the Frayser house, in rear of the Eighteenth Corps hospital. I leave the telegraph lin Page 79 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 79 to connect with you here. As my headquarters will be outside of everybodys pickets, if I get gobbled you will have command. My staff have selected the position. I must be in that neighborhood, however. BENJ. F. BUTLER, iIft~or- (Jeneral, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 38. In the Field, I/a., October 4, 1864. 1)uring the temporary detail of Lient. Col. R. H. Jackson, assistant ilispector-general of this corps, as chief of artillery, commanding the Artillery Brigade, Lieut. Col. A. C. Warberg, First U. S. Colored Cay- aliy, is announced as acting assistant inspector-general, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-General Birney: WM. P. SHREVE, Lieutenant, Commissary of iiusters and Aetg. Asst. Aajt. Gen. - HEADQUARTERS FIRST NEW YORI ENGINEERS, October 4 1864 Major-General WEITZEL, 5 ~. m. Commanding Eighteenth Corps: GENERAL: Lieutenant Archer, just in from the left, reports having seen a number of men near the river in front of the house in front of the lett battery, and that there has been unusual activity among the gun-boats and steamers in the river for an hour or so. Your obedient servant, ED. W. SERRELL, Colonel Engtneers. SPECIAL ) HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL BRIGADE, ORDERS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 14. ) Defenses of Bermuda Hundred, Va., October 4, 1864. * * * * * * * II. In pursuance of instructions from headquarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, Col. II. J. Brady, comnianding Two hun- dred and sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed with his com- mand to Varina, on the James River, and report to Lieutenant Michie, U. S. Engineers. He will take his camp equipage and knapsacks. The movement will commence at once. Quartermaster will furnish the necessary traii sportation. By order of Col. J. H. Potter: CHAS. A. CARLETON, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, October 5, 186410.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, (Received S a. in~ 6th.) Washington, D. C.: I will start to Washington in the morning, and will meet Admiral Porter there, and bring him down with me on Saturday. U. S. GRANT, Licittemant- General Page 80 80 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 186411 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Your dispatch of 11 p. m. yesterday, in reference to General Ben- hams operations, states precisely the instructions previously given that officer, viz, to construct, first, redonbts covering the maui approaches, then to slash between, and finally to connect the redoubts with infantry parapets. All of these works were to have the minimum profile. I have to-day ordered an assistant to report to him. Everything is quiet along the lines, and the works progressing favorably. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 5, 186411.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have directed Gregg to send a regiment of cavalry to be posted on the telegraph road in advance of Old Court-House to patrol to the front and watch for movements on the part of the enemy. I have one now doing the same duty at Prince George Court-House, a detachment on the Norfolk road, and a regiment on the plank road, so that we ought to receive timely notice. So soon as the works on the left are completed and the working parties returned to the ranks I will relicve Gregg and station him between the ~Jerusalcm plank road and the James; this will be, I think, in a day or two. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. M. R. PATRICK,. Provost-Marshal- General: Special Orders, No. 89, dated September 8, 1864,~ from these head- quarters, relating to the expulsion of such citizens from within our lines as are inimical to our Government or refuse to take the oath of allegiance, you will now carry into execution without any further delay. Those who desire to go to Richmond you may send by boat to Aikens Landing, and thence to Coxs Ferry, at which point they can pass into the rebel lines. All others you can turn loose outside of our picket-lines at any convenient point. You will permit all parties removing to take with them whatever personal property they may have. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel, Military Secretary and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Two deserters from the Ninth Florida, Finegans brigade, came into the lines of the Third Division, Ninth Army Corps, at sun- See Part II, p. 745 Page 81 CMAP. LIV I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 81 rise this a. in. They give very little information. The line occupied by Mahones division remains unchanged. All five brigades are reported in our front, Wei sigers being in reserve of the division. By telegraph from City Point this a. in.: The force at Chaffins farm last night, as follows: Fields and Hokes divisions, the city battalions, and local defense troops, and one regiment from each of Picketts brigades. Thomas brigade, of Wilcoxs division, near Chesterfield Station. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. IIIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 5, 1861. [General IIulVTIIREYS:] GENERAL: The following dispatch from the plank road station is respectfully forwarded: At 5.30 p. m. abont 150 men in small squads caine from tIme direction of Petersbnrg and disappeared in the works at different points from the Gregory Chimneys to point of woods northwest from station. No change in camp or lines. The statkin on the Ninth Corps front sees a portion of the Boydton plank road between Ritchies and Robertsons and will be able to notice movements made upon it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 1864. The following changes of troops will be made: 1. Major-General Hancock will relieve the troops of the Ninth Corps garrisoning Fort Alexander Hays and posted in the rifle-pits from Fort Davis to Fort Alexander Hays and the pickets from Fort Davis to .a point midway between Fort Alexander Hays and Fort howard. 2. Major-General Warren will relieve the troops of the Ninth Corps garrisoning Fort Howard and posted in the rifle-pits from Fort Wads- worth to Fort Howard and the picket-line to a point midway between Fort Howard and Fort Alexander Hays. 3. The pickets of the Ninth Corps between Fort Davis and Fort Wadsworth will be relieved at night by the Second and Fifth Corps. 4. The garrisons of Forts Alexander Hays and Howard will remain at those posts until regularly relieved. General Ferrero will at once withdraw his troops from the rifle-pits on the left of Fort Alexander Hays, leaving his pickets posted, and move to the vicinity of Poplar Spring Church and report to Major-General Parke. He will notify the commanders of Forts Davis, Alexander Hays, and Howard of his with- drawal. ~. Upon the receipt of this order Major-General Parke will send a brigade of Motts division to relieve Ferreros troops, holding the rifle- pits between Fort Davis and Fort Alexander Hays, and upon the arrival of General Ferreros troops will relieve General Motts division, of the Second Corps, and send it to report to Major-General Hancock. A. A. HUMPIHREYS, life jor- General and Chief of Stat 6 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 82 82 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP, lAY. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 1864. (Sent 11.30 a. in.) Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Engineer B~-igade, d~e.: General Gregg is ordered to post a regiment of cavalry on the tele- graph road, abont three miles out from Old Court-House, with instruc- tions to the commander to scout daily to and- beyond Cockes Mill, Sycamore Church, and out the stage road, & c. He will put himself jll communication with the commander at Old Court-House and give hint early notice of any appearance of the enemy in that quarter. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 5, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: 1 have nothing new to report from the lines as yet. Three contra- bands came in last night from Petersburg and report nothing new. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 18641 p. m. Ma,jor-General HANCOCK: I have directed all Sixth Corps trains, except artillery, to City Point, where I presumed they were. The artillery ti-ains I have directed to go to the plank road, from whence 11 have ordered up the Ninth Corps train; the Fifth is already up. I have also sent a regiment of cavalry on the Old Court-House road, which, with the one at Prince George Court-House and the one ou the plank road, ought to keep guerrillas in order. 1 shall send you back Mott to-night, but you will have to hold up to Fort Alexander Hays and picket half way from there to Fort Davis. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October ~ 1864 General IIUMPHREYS, . (Received 2.50 ~. in.) Chief of Staff: Do you desire Molts division to remain at Fort Hays, as General Meades telegram seems to indicate? If not, I would prefer Molt to relieve the garrison at Fort i)avis, which I would use as a reserve between the l)lank road and the Norfolk road. There are no reserves, to speak of, on the whole line to the river now. Who is to occupy the line between Fort hays and Fort Howard? WINF1) S. hANCOCK, Major- General Page 83 CHAP. MY.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 83 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 1864. (Sent 3.08 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding & cond Corps: The commanding general wishes you to make such disposition of Motts division as you coiisider best. A brigade of his division was ordered to relieve Ferreros troops between Fort Davis and Fort Alex- ander Hays, becanse it was thou~ht you had none at hand to relieve them, and Parke should have Ferreros men as soon as possible. There will be no troops in the rifle-pits between Fort Alexander Hays and Fort Howard. Your i)icket-Iine and that of the Fifth Corps are ex- pected to keep that part of the front. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chif of Stafl~. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 5, 18647.50 p. rn. General HLTMPIIREYS: Major Falls, commanding cavalry at Prince George, says his pickets were fired at to-night along his whole hue. He sent mu a man he found on his line with a pass from General Patrick. I have sent him up for identification. WTNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 5, 18648.30 [p. in.]. General HUMPHREYS: Has the regiment of cavalry gone to Old Court-House? Major Falls, commanding cavalry at Prince George, reports, at 8 p. in., the enemy is evidently trying to force his left and rear from the direction of Syca- more Church, aiming, lie thinks, for the traimis. He says, however, that he has held his own thus fhr, but that his command is much scattered on account of the great number of roads being picketed, fifty being the largest number he has together at one place. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 1864. (Sent 9.44 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding AS1eeond Corps: The regiment left Greggs camp on the Vaughan road about 4 oclock this afternoon. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Ill2Qor- General and Chief of Staf Page 84 84 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CJRCULAR.1 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 5, 18G4. In accordance with instructions from headquarters of the army,.the following disposition of troops will be made to-night: I. The Third Division, Brevet Major-General Mott commanding, will OCcllI)Y the line from Fort Hays to and including Fort Sedgwick. Two brigades will occupy the line between Forts Davis an(l Hays, and gar- rison these forts. The connecting line of rifle-pits need only be manned by a thin line. All the reserve troops of these two brigades will be massed in rear of an(l near to Fort Hays. The remaining brigade of this division will furnish the garrison for Fort Sedgwick. The reserve of the brigade will be placed in rear of the fort, where it will be avail- able as a prompt support in case of any attack in the direction of the plank road. 11. On being relieved by the Third Division, the Second Division, Major-General Gibbon commanding, will take up the line from Fort Sedgwick to and includin~ Fort Morton, and will garrison Forts Rice, Meikel, and Morton, as they are at present held. The reserve troops of this division will be placed in rear of Fort Mortoim. III. On being relieved by the Second Division, the First Division, Brigadier-General Miles commanding, will commtinue to hold the line from Fort Morton to time river, placing one reserve in rear of Forts Stedman and Haskell, and another at such points as General Miles may select, as a support to the line between the Hare honse and the river. IV. The Third Division will picket from the plank road to the left, to a point half-way betweemi the plank road and Fort Howard, connecting with the Fifth Corps. The Second Divisiomm will picket fromn the plank road to a point immediately in front of Fort Morton, connecting with the First Division, which will continue the line to the river. V. As soon as practicable after this mmexv arrangement has been per- fected, General Miles will finish the second line between Fort Stedman and the river, and other commuanders will strengthen their lines where- ever needed. The commnanders will report the garrisons ammd names of commanders of the inclosed works as soon as tIme change is completed. Should General Motts troops move too late to umake the change to- night, it will be postponed until to-morrow night. General Mott will, however, relieve the Ninth Corps picket-line and will occupy Fort hays and the rifle-pits between it and Fort Davis. The police of the in- trenchments is represented to be very bad, and the attention of com- manders is again directed to the matter. By order of Major-General Hancock: H. II. BINGHAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, Jones house, October 5, 18G412 p. mu. Maj. H. H. BINGUAM, A. A. A. U., Second Ar~my Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that I have relieved the garri- son of Fort Davis and that I have the troops outside of Forts Sedgwick and Alexander Hays, the garrisons of which refuse to be relieved. The picket-line from Jerusaleni plank road to half way between Fort Alex- ander Hays and Fort Howard is being relieved. I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your obediemmt servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major- General Page 85 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 85 [First indorseinent.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND Coups, Respectfully returned. October 6, 1864. General Gibbon will explain, and return this paper by bearer, why the garrison at Fort Sedgwick was not relieved as directed in orders of yesterday. By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BINGHAM, Major, Judge- Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. [Second indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, October 6, 1864. The garrison of Fort Sedgwick was relieved this morning about 2 oclock. The present commander of the Third Division informed my staff officer that he had no difficulty in relieving the garrison, the com- mander simply being particular as to who and what was relieving him, which was in conformity with the instructions I gave. Respectfully, JOHN GIBBON, ]Jliajor- General of Voluntc~ers, Commanding Division. (Third indorsernent.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND CoRPS, October 6, 1864. Respectfully referred to commanding officer Third Division for his information. Please see indorsement of General Gibbon. His communication did not reach these headquarters until a late hour this morning and shortly before General Gibbons morning report was received. By order of Major-General Hancock: IL H. BJNGHAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND Coups, October 5, 1864. General Pierce will immediately relieve the troops of Colonel McAl- lister in breast-works near Clenments house and also his pickets. Colonel McAllister will call in his working parties, and as soon as his pickets are relieved will relieve the troops of General Ferrero between Forts~ Davis and Alexander Hays, reporting to Major-General Hancock. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND AuMY Coups, October 5, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGIIAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: I have the honor to report that about 7.30 p. m. yesterday the enemy opened sharply with musketry on our picket-line. At the same tim Page 86 86 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tOHAP. LIV. commenced a heavy fire from their artillery. This was vigorously replied to by our batteries, aud iii about an hour all was agaiu quiet. No casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, ]liLc~or, Commanding. (Copy to Capt. John N. Craig, assistant adjutant-general, artillery headquarters, Army of the Potomac.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 18649.30 p. m. General G. K. WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: The commanding general directs that you order the Twenty-first Regi- ment Pennsylvania Cavalry, serving in your camp as infantry, to pro- ceed to-morrow to the Dismounted Camp for the cavalry near City Point for the purpose of being mounted. The regiment will be dropped from your returns as transferred to the Second Cavalry Division. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 247. October 5, 1864. I. General Griffin will extend his line to the right, so as to relieve General Ayres left brigade, and will furnish all details necessary to finish the redoubt on the Squirrel Level road. II. General Ayres will then extend his line to the right, so as to make the line continuous with the Vaughan road. He will leave the battery on the Squirrel Level road for General Griffin, and will relieve the pickets, about sixty in number, of General Bragg, which connects General Ayres pickets with General Baxters. General Ayres will fur- nish details necessary to complete the redoubt on the Vaughan road. III. These changes are necessary to enable the major-general com- manding to use General Crawfords division in constructing a rear line from General Parkes left to the Weldon railroad. They will be made as soon as practicable. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HE kDQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 5, 18648.10 a. in. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: A deserter came in this morningTwenty-seventh North Caroli~~a, Cookes brigade, conscript; joined a few days since. Says that Laues and Davis brigades are here, all three being along the line of intrenc Page 87 CHAP. LIV.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 87 ments; MacRaes brigade in the neighborhood. Will you please send me the organization of Hills corp, or, rather, Lees old army ~ I have Beauregards and Earlys. . G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CoRPS, October 5, 18649.15 a. in. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: All quiet during the night and this a. m. In the affair yesterday afternoon we lost 1 officer and 18 men missing and 1 man wounded. I have details at work on the redoubts and slashing in front of the in- fantry lines. JNO. G. PARKE, M~jor- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRTY-SIXTH MASSACHUSETTS, Pegrarns House, October 5, 1864. Capt. SAMUEL WRIGHT, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Division, Ninth Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report as division officer of the day for this date: The picket-line is in advance of the line of works from 300 to 300 yards, and forms nearly a right angle at the Sanborn house where the lines of First and Second Brigade meet. The First Brigade has 200 men on the line and the Second the same number. About 3 p. in. yesterday the line was attacked just to the left of the Sanborn house. The Second New York Rifles were posted in that part of the line and fled without firing a shot, so the brigade officers of the day report. The, line on the right and left of that space fell back, firing, nearly to the works. I was in camp at the time, and went out and rallied the pickets, and, with the assistance of the Second Maryland Regiment, reoccupied the old line. Another attempt was made to drive us back, but it was easily repulsed. About 8 in the even- ing I fired the house in accordance with instructions. We now occupy the same line as yesterday, but strengthened near the house. The Thirty-sixth Massachusetts lost in the affair of yesterday, 1 man wounded and 4 prisoners, two of whom were attempting to fire the house. The Second New York lost 1 officer and 14 men missing, probably prisoners. WM. F. DRAPER, Lient. Col. Thirty-sixth Massachusetts, Div. Officer ~f the Day. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 5, 18648.30 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Companies sent this morning to Reams Station, and two miles farther south of the Halifax road, could discover no signs of a movement of the enemys cavalry; but one vedette was seen, and he posted southwest of Reams Station. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I). MCM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Comdg. Second Division Page 88 88 OPERATiONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 186411.20 a. m. Brigadier-General GREG~, Commanding Cavalry: The major-general commanding directs that you post a regiment on the telegraph road, abont three miles outside of the Old Court-House, near where the road to Sycamofe Church intersects it, and abont a mile beyond the Birchett house, with instrnctions to scont constantly to and beyond Cockes Mill, Sycamore Church, and ont the stage road, so as to give the earliest information to the commanding officer at Old Court- House of the appearance in that vicinity of any cavalry force of the enemy. The commander of the reglinent will pnt himself in commnni- cation with the commander at Old Court-House. A. A. HUMPHREYS, ]Jfajor- General and Chief of Staff~. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 18648.30 p. m. Brigadier-General GREGcT, Commanding Cavalry: The major-general commanding directs that you picket from the left of General Parkes infantry pickets across the Jerusalem plank road and watch and patrol the main avennes of approach between the Jeru- salem plank road and the James iRiver. That part of your force not engaged in picketing and patrolling will be established on the plank road, where it will be available to meet any movement of the enemy. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5 1 Brigadier-General GREG~, 8649.50 }& ~. m. Commanding Cavalry. I send you dispatch* from General Hancock. The commanding gen- eral wishes ~that,in disposing yonr command as indicated in dispatch of this evening, you would direct your troops to move on roads out- side of the lines of intrenchmnents. A. A. HUMPHiREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. H. E. DAVIES, Commanding First Brigade, Second Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you at once cause all communication between your pickets amid those of the ~nemny to be stopped. Officers on picket will not be allowed to converse and other- wise comnmunicate with the enemy. The pickets will perform their duty as heretofore without seeking information by conversation. A. H. BJBBEli, Ccipta in and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. See Hancock to Humphreys, 8.30 p. in., p. 83 Page 89 CHAP. LIT.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 89 HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 5, 1864. Col. C. II. SMITH, Commanding Second Brigade, Second Division: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you send a regi- ment from your brigade to take post on the telegraph road, about three miles outside of the Old Court-House, near where the road to Sycamore Church intersects it, and about a mile beyond the Birchett house, with instructions to scout constantly to and beyond Cockes Mill; Sycamore Church, and out on the stage road, so as to give the earliest information to the commanding officer at Old Court-House of the appearance in that vicinity of any cavalry force of the enemy. The commander of the regi- ment will put himself in communication with the commander at Old Court-House. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. H. BIBBER, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 121. ) In the Field, October 5, 1864. Corpi. Thomas Murphy, Company K, One hundred and fifty eighth New York Volunteers, having been reported to the commanding gen- eral for distinguished gallantry in the attack of the enemy upon the works of our line near Chaffins farm on the 30th of September, he having taken with his own hand a battle-flag from the enemy, was, in consideration of his good conduct, offered promotion, but declining it, is given in lieu thereof a furlough of twenty days, to date from such time as he may choose to take it. The paymaster is ordered to pay him up in full to that date, and Corporal Murphy is recommended to the Secretary of War to receive a medal for distinguished gallantry, an(I will receive a present of $25 from the commanding genera] to bear his expenses on his furlough. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, A ssistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 275. ) In the Field, October 5, 1864. I. In future the First New York Volunteer Engineers will report directly to these headquarters. II. Brig. Gen. J. B. Carr is hereby ordered to report to Brevet Major- General Weitzel, commanding Eighteenth Army Corps, for assign- mnent. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 144. ~ in the Field, Va., October 5, 1864. * * * *- * * * 2. The One hundred and ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. J. C. Itriscoe, is assigned to the First Brigade, First Division, and it Page 90 90 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND ~. U. [GflAP Li commanding officer will report. For the present this regiment will form the garrison at Deep Bottom, reporting to Colonel Rand, com- mandant of post. The commanding officer of First Division will see that it is equipped properly for the field in all respects and ready to join its command. 3. The troops assigned to First Brigade, Third Division, will form the Third Division and be divided into two brigades: First Brigade, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops, Ninth U. S. Colored Troops, One hun- dred and twenty-seventh 15. S. Colored Troops; Second Brigade, Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, Twenty-ninth Connecticut Volunteers, Forty-fifth U. S. Colored Troops. The division will be under the coin- mand of Brigadier-General Birney, U. S. Volunteers, and the following assignments are made: Col. A. C. Voris, Sixty-seventh Ohio Vol- unteers, for First Brigade; Col. F. A. Osborn, Twenty-fourth Massa- chusetts Volunteers, for Second Brigade. These colonels will at once report for duty to Brigadier-General Birney. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Birney: WM. P. SHREVE, First Lieut., 2d U. S. Sharpshooters, and Actg. Asst. A~jt. (len. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., October 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. IR. S. FOSTER, Commanding Second Division, Tenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that you can order back the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers from Deep Bottom, Va., to its brigade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. P. SHREVE, Lieutenant, Commissary of Musters and Actg. Asst. Adjt. (len. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: Please send a staff officer to these headquarters to fix accurately the point of junction between the Tenth arid Eighteenth Corps. There will be change in my lines within twenty-four hours that requires this point to be fixed and known. G. WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 5, 1864. Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps: Have you any colonels in your command who ought to be brevetted to command brigades for gallant services h BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 91 CHAP. LIV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 91 HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: My standard for brigadier-general is high. I would recommend from what I have seen of them Col. J. H. Potter, Twelfth New Hampshire Volunteers; C ol. J. Jourdan, One hundred and fifty-eighth New York Volunteers. Bnt the following are highly spoken of; too: Col. Guy V. Henry, Fortieth Massachnsetts Volunteers; C ol. A. F. Stevens, Thir- teenth New Hampshire, and Colonel Duncan, of the colored troops. CT. WEITZEL, Brecet Major. General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 5, 186410.55 p. rn. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: General Paine reports that the pickets on his left state the enemy to be crossing from the other side of the river. I have just sent a staff officer to examine into the matter. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 335. Washington, P. 0., October 6, 1864. * * * * * * * 62. Maj. Septirnus Carucross, assistant adjutant-general of volun- teers, will report in person without delay to the commanding general Army of the Potomac for assignment to duty. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, October 6, 1864. (Received 10.20 a. in.) Major-General MEADE: General Grant has just started for Washington. By order: E. S. PARKER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Military & cretary. (Same to Major-General Butler.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC OFPLCE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, October 6, 1864. Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Three deserters from the Forty-eighth North Carolina, Cookes brigade, Heths division, caine iiito the hues of the Ninth Aimny Corps last evening about 10 oclock. They locate Cookes brigade some Page 92 92 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV ~where between the Squirrel Level road and the Boydton plank road, about a mile west of the Weldon railroad. From their statement they must have come into our lines on the Squirrel Level road. They think Cookes brigade is on the extreme left of Heths division, which is posted from right to left as follows: Archer, Kirkland, Davis, and Cooke. Have not any knowledge of the position of the right. Dunovants cav- alry brigade connects with Archer. On the left of their division Lanes brigade of Wilcoxs division is posted. Think all of Wilcoxs division is there, extending to the left beyond the lead-works. Scales brigade of this division is in the vicinity of the lead-works. Do not know of any troops in reserve; think there are none. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. SPECIAL ORDERs, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTOMAC, No. 270. October G, 1864. 1. Leave of absence is granted to the following-named officers: Bvt. Maj. Gen. G. Mott, volunteer service, for ten days. * * * * * * * 9. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Brown, volunteer service, having, in compli- ance with the instructions of the War Department, reported at these headquarters, will report for further orders to the major-general com- manding the Second Army C~ps. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQIJARTER5 SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 6, 18649.30 a. m. Major FISHER: Sergeant Carothers, or Caruthel, reports that at 8 a. m. 200 infantry passed to the left on line Weldon railroad, coining from works in vicin- ity large fort. All quiet and no other changes or movements observed. Sergea~zit Jordan reports all quiet. Captain Thickstun reports that an artillery camp near lead-works has disappeared. All quiet. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 6, 18649.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. W. S. HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: If General Motts division has rejoined you the commanding general desires that you will return to these headquarters to-day Colonel Collis command, now at Fort Bross. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 93 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 93 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 6, 18649.40 a. m. General WILLIAMS: Certain changes in the disposition of troops were made last night, the details of which will be sent during the day. Two contrabands and one deserter received from Petersburg last night. They report no change. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEAD QUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Deserted House, before Petersburg, Va., No. 252. ) October 6, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. Byt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Brown, volunteer service, having reported at these headquarters in obedience to instructioiis from headquarters Army of the Potomac, will report for further instructions to Brig. Gen. N. A. Miles, commanding First Division. * * * * * * * By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BJNGHAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. An officer from these headquarters, who was on the line to-day, reports that about 3.30 flags of truce were dying from the enemys line and from onrs, two being in the vicinty of Fort Rice on the old line of works. The general does not object to a cessation of picket-firing or informal trace for temporary pnrposes, but objects to the display of flags as .described, except by authority, an d requests that you will give the necessary instructions to your officers to put an end to this irregu- larity. If the enemys pickets and vedettes wish a cessation of the firing they can indicate it by ceasing to fire amid not by resort to flags. If they continue to use them, the general does not wish the exaniple imitated. By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BJNGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM WILSON, Eighty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers: COLONEL: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to inform you. that the command of the First Brigade devolves upon you, and that you assume the command at once. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WA. li. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 94 94 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. MY. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 6, 1864. [General MOTT:] GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that the line to the left of Fort Alexander Hays will not be occupied, and that if the pickets in. front arc atta ked you will have to support them from the reserve you have at that point, and that in case of a heavy attack the line there would be occupied by the pickets after they conic in, and your reserves, until other troops are Sent there at least. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colouct and Chief of Star. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, - October 6, 1864. Maj. II. II. BINGIIAN, Acting Assistctnt Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps:, MAJOR: I have the honor to report, in compliance with instructions from headquarters, Second Army Corps, that Fort Sedgwick is gar- risoned by the Ninety-ninth i~ennsylvania Veluiitecrs, First Maine HewVy K tillery, Seventy-third New York Volunteers, and Seventeenth Maine Volunteers, numbering 62 eoimmssioned officers and 884 enlisted men f(;r duty, all nnder the command of Col. B. R. il3iles, Ninety-ninth I~einisylvania Volunteers. Fort Alexander Hays is garrisoned by the First 1\iassachusetts Heavy Artillery, numbering 23() mcii, and 70 men of the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volanteers, under the command of Maj. N. Shatswell, First Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. Fort Davis is garrisoned by the Fifth, Seventh, and one company of the Eighth I~ew Jersey Volunteers, iiumberimig 5Th men, nuder command of Col. Francis Price, jr., Seventh New Jersey Volunteers. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Miajor- General. HEADQITARTERS -Sl~CoND ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Bvt. Maj. Gen. G. MOTT, Coinmandinq Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you send a regiment from your command, of strength say 200 or 250, to the fort on the Norfolk railroad in rear of these headquarters, to relieve Colonel Collis and his command. I am, general, very r~spectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. BINGHAM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant General. CIRCULAR ORDERS.] HDQRS. THIRD DIV., SECOND CORiS, Jones House, October 6, 1864. In accordance with instructions from corps headquarters, the follow- ing disposition of troops will be made to-night: The First Brigade, General Dc Trobriand, will relieve the garrison in Fort Sedgwick; the balance of the brigade will be placed in the rear of the fort, where i Page 95 ChAp. LIThI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 95 will be available in any attack in the direction of the plank road as a prompt support. The Third Brigade, Colonel McAllister, will relieve the garrison in Fort Davis and ocenpy one-half of the line between Forts Davis and Hays. The Second Brigade, General Pierce, will relieve the garrison in Fort Hays and one-half the line between Forts flays and Davis. The connecting line and rifle-pits need only be manned by a thin line. All the reserve of these two brigades will be massed in rear of and near Fort Hays. The division will picket from the plank road to the left to a point halfway between the plank road and Fort Howard, connecting with the Fifth Corps. Colonel McAllister will furnish the picket immediately. Commanders will report the gar- risons and names of commanders of inclosed works as soon as the change is complete. The police of the intrenchmeiits is represented to be very bad, and the attention of the commanders is called to this matter. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FINKELMEJEII, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD Div., SECOND ARMY CORPS, Octobe1~ 6, 1864. Capt. J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Division, Second Corps: CAPTAIN: In compliance with orders received from headquarters Third Division, Second Corps, I have the honor to report that I have relieved Colonel Collis at the fort on the Norfolk railroad, in rear of headquarters Second Corps, with the Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, Capt. John II. Ross commanding, numbering 17 commissioned officers and 215 enlisted men for duty. I am, sir, very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, B. B. PIERCE, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 6, 18642.15 p. m. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifth Corps: Some days ago I telegraphed to General Warren, asking with what regiment he desired to have the Forty-fourth New York Volunteers consolidated. We have heard nothing in reply. Was the dispatch re- ceived~ The instructions of the War Department upon the subject appear to contemplate that the order of consolidation be issued here. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General General Warren has assigned the remnant of the Forty-fourth New York Volunteers to the One hundred and. fortieth and One hundre Page 96 96 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. and forty-sixth New York Volunteers, Ayres division; This assign- inent just fills up two old regiments. The men are old acquaintances, and the arrangement is a harmonious one and in consonance with the wishes of Generals Ayres and Griffin. A COPY of the order of assign- ment is on its way to your headquarters for the approval of the major- general commanding. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 6, 18647 p. m, Major-General WARREN: You cau have eight days leave to-morrow, to be extended by tele graph if possible. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 248. 5 October 6, 1864. * * * * * * * III. The detachment of the Forty-fourth Regiment New York Volun- teers, now serving with the First Division, is transferred to the Second Division and will be consolidated with the One hundred aIld fortieth and One hundred and forty-sixth New York Volunteers, under the direction of Brigadier-General Ayres. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 18649 a. m. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS: Ii have the honor to report quiet on my lines during the last twenty- four hours. Three deserters belonging to the Forty-eighth North Car- olina (Cookes brigade), of ileths division, came in last night. They will be forwarded this morning. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 186410 a. rn. (Received 10.30 a. in.) Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Three deserters were brought in this morning; belong to Forty-eigl~th North Carolina, Lieutenant-Colonel Hill commanding, Cookes brigade. They say that the following brigades were in our front, and in the following order from their right to left: Archer, Walker, MacRae, Davis, Cooke, Lane, ~umd Scales. JNO. C. PARKE, Major- General Page 97 CHM. LIY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 97 HDQRS. SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, CAVALRY Coups, October 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. H. E. DAVIES, Commanding First Brigade, Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that so much of your brigade as may be necessary (not exceeding one-half) shall be disposed to cover the main avenues by which the enemy could approach our lines between the Jerusalem plank road and the James River. A thor- ough system of scouting will be adopted as the best plan of keeping off guerrillas. Special instructions have been sent the commanding officer of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, now near Birchetts. The regiment of your brigade posted in that vicinity will be governed by the same instructions. The officers commanding regiments toward James River will place themselves in communication with the command- ers of infantry in their rear and give notice of any important move- ments of the enemy discovered in their front. As soon as you shall have established your line please report the disposition of your picket- ing force to these headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. H. BIBBER, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjntant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 6 1864 Hon. E. M. STANTON, 2.50 r. m. Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.: I understand there are six companies of heavy artillery belonging to an unfilled regiment of New Hampshire volunteers somewhere near lATashington. As artillerists they must be nearly or quite useless. Can they not be sent to me, and I can put them in my skeleton New Hampshire regiments and teach them the first duty of the artillery sol- dierthe use of the musketin a short time. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 6, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Signal officer reports, 6.30 a. in., train of cars going to Petersburg; owing to fog could not see the train. 8.25 a. in., train of thirteen cars heavily laden with troops going to Petersburg. B. F. BUTLER, ]iiiiajor- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIROINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, in the Field, October 6, 1864. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States: GENERAL: Allow me to call your attention to the fact that Brevet Major-General Weitzel has only been assigned to duty by my order with his brevet rank. Will you ask the Secretary of War to assign 7 R RVOL XLII, PT II Page 98 98 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. him to duty and command where he now is with his brevet rank, so that he can get aides-de-camp and staff. I would recommend for bre- vet Col. N. M. Curtis, One hundred and forty-second New York Volun- teers, First Brigade, Second Division, Tenth Army Corps, and Col. F. A. Osborn, of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers, Third Brigade, First Division, Tenth Army Corps. Both these gentlemen are and have been long in command of brigades, and both distinguished themselves in the movement on the enemys works near New Market. I would also recommend as brevet brigadiers three gentlemen com- manding colored troopsColonel Duncan, now in hospital, wounded, for gallant and meritorious service in leading a charge upon the enemys works at Spring Hill; also Col. A. G. Draper for like gallant conduct at the head of his brigade on the 29th of September at the same point; Maj. B. C. Ludlow, of th~ additional staff, for gallant and meritorious conduct in maintaining for many days his position nuder fire at Dutch Gap and for meritorious conduct in leading his troops in the charge on Spring Hill, August 30, 1864. This last gentleman is entitled to great praise for silent and quiet endurance and the exam- ple he has set for the men, having done more than any other officer to inspirit the colored troops with steady coolness under fire. He has had his quarters at Dutch Gap twice shot to pieces, almost under him, by the enemys shell. I would also recommend most earnestly and strenuously First Lieut. Peter S. Michie, U. S. Corps of Engineers, for two brevets. If there is an officer in the army who is worthy of it and who has earned it by unremitting and meritorious services it is Lieu- tenant Michie. I would also recommend Brig. Gen. George J. Stan- nard, First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, as brevet major-general, for the gallant an(1 successful charge on Fort Harrison, one of the finest things of the war. General Stannard is at home, having lost an arm. I would also recommend Brigadier-General Kautz, commaiidiiig Cavalry Division of this army, as brevet major genera], for gallant and meritorious services in conducting the cavalry expedition and cutting the Weldon railroad on the 5th of May, 1864, and again cutting the Danville and Ilichmond road on the 16th of May; again for gallant service in the expedition under General Wilson, bringing in his own cavalry safe from the attack of the enemy; and, lastly, for his vigilance and successful movements in the late advance on the north side of the James. I would also recommend for brevet Col. G. V. Henry, of the Fortieth Massachusetts Volunteers, commanding Third Brigade, Fiist Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, now commanding brigade, and Col. J. Jourdan, of the One hundred and fifty-eighth New York Volunteers, for gallant and- meritorious service in the charge on Fort Harrison. All these gentlemen recommended for brevets are now holding the coin- mand for which their brevet rank is asked; all the promotions to date from the 29th of September, P364. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLEH, ]Jliajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS KAUTZS CAVALRY DIVISION, October 6, 1864. Major-General BIRNEY, Commanding Tenth Gorps: GENERAL: I send two refugees and four deserters. The refugees left Richmond since noon. The information they give of importance i Page 99 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 99 that a force, consisting of Laws, Bennings, and Greggs brigades, passed Thornes this evening, going north, toward the York River road, indicating a reconnaissance in my front. I send a note to General Butler about it, which please forward. I think it would be well to fGrward the refugees to General Butler at once. Very respectfully, & c., AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. GENERAL Deserters sent in by General Kautz report a inovemetit, three brigades, toward the York River railroad, evidently with the intention of making a forced reconnaissance on onr right. The major- general commanding directs that you be prepared and hold your com- mands to act as may become necessary. Very respectfully, WM. P. SHutEYE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant. General. (To Generals Terry, Foster, and Birney.) SPECIAL ORDERS, ) HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 145. ) In the Field, Va., October 6, 1864. 1. So much of Special Orders, No. 144, current series, from these headquarters, as assigns Col. F. A. Osborn, Twenty-fourth Massachu- setts Volunteers, to command the Second Brigade, Third Division, is revoked. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Birney: WM. P. SHutEYE, First Lient., Second U. S. Sharpshooters, and Actg. Asst. A(jt. Gen. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND DIV., TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., October 6, 1864. Capt. P. A. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Div., Tenth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the Seventy-sixth Penn- sylvania Volunteers, Lieut. Col. J. S. Littell, has arrived from Deep Bottom and reported. The regiment is now going into camp and will be held in reserve opposite the center of my line. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. PENNYPACKER, Colonel Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Commanding Page 100 100 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [OnAr. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 6, 186412,10 a. m. Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps: Assign some officer to command of the First Brigade, First Division, other than Colonel Raulston. BENJ. F. BUTLER, lliliajor-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I have received your order relating to Lieutenant-Colonel Baniston. If this order is intended to reflect on that officer I wish to say that there is no better officer in this corps. He was a lieutenant-colonel only. I could, therefore, not recommend him to a brevet brigadier-general ifndei~ your order. I have suspended the execution of your order until I again hear from you. G. WEITZEL, Brevet ]Jliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel COMSTOOK: General Butler has put me on duty according to my brevet rank. Does this entitle me to the pay and staff of a major-general without the orders being approved at Washington? 0. WEITZEL, Brevet Major. General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: I referred that whole matter about my assignment to headquarters at City Point. Colonel Comstock says my assignment by you will un- questionably be approved, but that it requires the Presidents approval to enable me to draw pay and appoint my staff. Will you please, there- fore, send it on for approval, so that I can make my appointments ?~ 0. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvISIoN, EIGHTEENTH CORPS, Before Richmond, October 6, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Army of the James: GENERAL: In answer to your inquiries of this morning I have the honor to state that the Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops behaved excellently in the assault of September 29, but I could not and cannot select any officer in it for mention. They all did their whole duty well, * See Butler to Grant, p. 91 Page 101 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 101 but so did every officer in the column, and so did every regiment con- cerned (the First and Thirty-seventh were not engaged September 29, being second line). If the list of officers forwarded were to be increased it wonid have to include every officer killed, wounded, or safe of Second Cavalry (except Captain Perrin), of Fourth, Sixth, Twenty-second, Fifth, Thirty-sixth, and Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops. During the assault four companies of Thirty-sixth fell, by the casualties among the officers, into the command of sergeants, but Lieutenant-Colonel Pratt, commanding regiment, unfortunately did not particularly notice their conduct and management of their companies. Their names are: First Sergt. Jeremiah Gray, Company C; First Sergt. William Davis, Company E; First Sergt. Miles Sheppard, Company I; First Sergt. Samuel Gilchrist, Company K. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. J. PAINE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES BERMUDA HUNDRED, October 6 1 Lieutenant-Colonel KENSEL, 8644 p. m. Chief of Staff, Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina: COLONEL: Captain Riggs, Company H, Third New York, six light 12-pounders, Captain Lee, Sixteenth New York, four 3-inch rifles, are in reserve at this end of pontoon bridge. One section of Lees battery is at Dutch Gap. J. H. POTTER, Colonel Twelfth New Hampshire Volunteers, Comdg. Defenses. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 6, 186410.15 a. in. Brigadier-General GRAHAM, Commanding Army Gun-boats, Point of Ji~oeks: Major-General Birney has applied for you to take charge of one of his divisions. I should be glad to consent did I know how to spare you from charge of the army gun-boats. if you would be willing to keep a general oversight of them in connection with your command I should be happy to make the assignment, as you know that I have no one in whom I have more confidence either on land or afloat. Please answer by telegraph. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Com~nanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 6, 1864. Col. HENRY L. ABBOT, (Received 8.30 i~. in.) Commanding Siege Train: General Hunt directs me to telegraph you for two 8-inch siege mortars and ammunition. He wishes to have them put into position at Battery No. 20 to-night. New mortar batteries of the enemy have been di Page 102 102 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. covered, exceedingly annoying the batteries and garrison at Fort Sedgwick. If they will report to mc I will put them ill position. Please inform me from what company the detachment will be sent to work them. A. F. BROOKER, llliajor, & e. WASHINGTON, October 7, 1864. Major-General MEABE: Make such demonstrations on your left in the morning as to detain the enemys forces there and prevent any concentration north Qf the James River. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 7, 186410.30 a. m. (Sent 10.40 a. in.) Brigadier-General RAwLINS: I have nothing of importance to communicate to the lieutenant-gen. eral cdmmanding. Deserters and refugees in this morning, together with reports of signal officers, would indicate no change in the enemys position in my front and no movement on their part up to S p. in. last evening. One deserter from Scales brigade, ~ division, stated his brigade had returned day before yesterday from Chaffins farm. I do not see where Lee can get re-enforcements to attack General Butler. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 7, 186410.30 a. m. Major-General BUTLER: Your dispatch* of 9 a. m. received. I dont know where Lee gets the forces to attack you. Deserters in this morning report no change of enemy in my front. One from Scales brigade, Wilcoxs division, says Scales returned from Chaffins farm day before yesterday. Have you any knowledge of any re-enforcements to Lee ~ GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186411.05 a. m. (Receivcd 12.05 p. in.) Major-General MEADE: I have made out this attacking column to be Bennings, ~ and Greggs brigades of infantry, a battalion of artillery, and Lomaxs cav- alry. I hear of no re-enforcements to General Lee, nor have I heard of any other troops moved across the river. I am inclined to believe that there can hardly be a real attack so far as my information goes. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General. See Butler to Grant, p. 107 Page 103 CHAP. LIV.] OO1U~ESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 103 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 7, 18G4. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Four contrabands that left Petersburg last night state that the hospital and commissary departments are being moved to Danville by the South Side Railroad, and heavy guns are being buried. As to the latter no definite information is given. The greater bulk of Lees army is in the vicinity of the South Side Railroad, and the lines south and east of the city are very thinly manned. A general impres- sion prevails that it is absolutely necessary to hold the South Side Railroad, which if lost ends the performance. No recent movements. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 7, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: A deserter from the Thirty-eighth North Carolina, Scales brigade, of Wilcoxs division, came into the lines of the Fifth Army Corps last evening. He left his brigade lying between the Weldon railroad and the Boydton plank road. It was on the left of the division, and its left rested on the railroad near the lead-works. Came into this position day before yesterday, on returning from Chaf- fins farm. Scales brigade wa~ the only brigade that went to Chaffins from Wilcoxs division. McGowans and Lanes brigades still on our right. Think there are no troops west of the Weldon railroad, except- ing ileths division and three brigades of Wilcoxs division. Stales brigade is extended in a long, thin line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIcfNAL DEPARTMENT, October 7, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The several signal stations along the lines report no changes or movements on the part of the enemy, excepting a section of artillery passed toward the enemys right upon the Boydton plank road at 7.30 a. in., and a small camp near the Richmond pike disap- peared since yesterday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer Page 104 104 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTO1~IAc, No. 271. * 5 October 7, 1864. * * * * * * 7. The battalion of the Eighth U. S. Infantry, now serving ill the Ninth Army Corps, will report to the commander of the Fifth Army Corps for assignment to duty with the regular troops serving in that corps. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 7, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS: There has been no change in my lines since last report, except the relief of Colonel Collis at Fort Bross by the Eighty-fourth Pennsyl- vania Infantry, Captain Ross commanding. Five negroes came in from Petersburg last night. They bring no news. Saw no movement of troops yesterday up to 8 p. m. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TILE POTOMAC, Near Aikens House, October 7,1864. Major-General HUMPITREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the hor~or to report that I inspected the line of the Second Corps as per instructions. The right of the line rests on the Appomattox River, and the left at Fort Alexander Hays. The troops were disposed as follows: First Division, Brigadier-General Miles commandingBattery No. 4, garrison of 154 men; Battery No. 5~ garrison of 150 men; Fort MeGil- very, garrison of 300 men; Battery No. 9, garrison of 100 men; Fort Stedman, garrison of 300 men; Battery No. 11, garrison of 80 men; Battery No. 12, garrison of 40 men; Fort H askell, garrison of 300 men; Battery No. 13, garrison of 20 men; Battery No. 14, garrison of 57 men; in line from Appomattox River to Battery No. 9, 325 men; in line from Battery No. 9 to Fort Stedman, 152 men; in line from Fort Stedman to Fort Haskell, 629 men; in line from Fort Haskell to Fort Morton, 600 men; picketing the river from Spring Hill Fort to Battery No. 5, 295 men. There is no picket-line in front of the works from the Appomattox River to near Fort Stedman, but during time night vedettes are thrown out. In front of Fort Stedman a picket of 50 men; a picket-line between Forts Haskell and Morton of 210 men; a guard at Cedar Level of 140 men; reserve force near Friends house, 1,200 men. The men were close to the works, one-third of the number in the line with their accouterments on; those between Fort Stedman and the Appomattox, accouterments on at all times. The garrisons at the forts had their regular guards. The rest of the men were without accouterments. They are in line at 4 oclock in the morning until after daylight, pre- pared in case of attack. They were building a second line between Battery No. 9 and Fort Stedman, which would soon be linished Page 105 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 105 The Second Division, Brigadier-General GibbonFort Morton, gar- rison of 305 men; Fort Meikel, garrison of 131 men; Fort Rice, garrison of 240 men; Battery iNo. 15, garrison of 20 men; in line between Forts Morton and Sedgwick, 1,300 men; picket between Forts Morton and Sedgwick, 600 men; reserve in rear of Fort Morton,585 men. One-third of the men in line have their accouterments on at all times. They are all in the line from 4 oclock in the morning till daylight, prepared in case of attack. The forts have only the regular garrison guards. The Third Division, Brigadier-General Mott commandingFort Sedgwick, garrison of 875 men; Fort Davis, garrison of 575 meu; Fort Alexander Hays, garrison of 300 men; in line between Fort Davis and Fort hays, 1,000 men; on picket from Jerusalem plank road to half way between Fort Hays and Fort Howard, 500 men; near the Williams house, 325 men; Fort Bross, garrison of 250 men; in reserve by Chieves house, 1,000 men; in reserve by Strongs house, 1,100 men. The men in this division were engaged in pitching their tents and cleaning camp. They were all without accouterments. The forts had the regular gar- rison guards. The picket-line runs in front of Fort Stedman, as near as I could judge at a distance of 200 feet in front of Fort Sedgwick 300 feet, and between these points an average of 600 feet; it widens out from Fort Sedgwick to the left of the Second Corps line, the pickets being atleast one-quarter of a mile in advance. I remain, yours, very respectfully, JAMES C. BIDDLE, Major and Aide-de-Camp. SPECIAL ORDERS, HD QRS. FIRST DIV., SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 531. October 7, 1864. * * * * * * * 3. Bvt. Brig. Gen. H. L. Brown, volunteer service, having reported at these headquarters, in compliance with Special Orders, No. 252, current series, headquarters Second Army Corps, is hereby assigned, subject to the approval of the major-general commanding the corps, to the temporary command of the Fourth Brigade of this division, reliev- ing in that command Lient. Col. William Glenny, Sixty-fourth New York Volunteers, who will return to duty in his regiment. By order of Brigadier-General Miles: WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM WILSON, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: The brigadier-general commanding directs that you re- lieve at 3 a. m. to-morrow, with troops of your brigade, the troops of the Consolidated Brigade in the line from Battery No. 9 to the left to connect with the Fourth Brigade275 muskets properly officered. He considers that a regimental organization had better be sent. The gar- risons of inclosed works will not be disturbed. He also directs that the garrison of Battery No. 4, 150 men, be kept up and considered the sam Page 106 10(3 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHIP. LIV. as the garrisons of the other inclosed works. No details are to be made from it, and it will be kept at work inclosing the battery, as directed in note of 3d instant. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjut nt. General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, Maj. H. H. BIN~HAM, October 7, 1864. Acting Assistant Adjtttant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report the following changes in the line of this division: The Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers (Second Brigade), numbering 17 commissioned officers and 215 men, Capt. John R. Ross commanding, relieved Colonel Collis and his command in the fort on the Norfolk railroad in rear of the headquarters Second Army Corps. Nothing further of note occurred since my last report. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet iiijiajor- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, (thief of Staff: Two deserters from Eighteenth North Carolina Regiment have just been reccived. They left the right of the rebel line about three miles and a half from Petersburg. One of them is named MacMillan; he has black whiskers, and is quite well posted as to the rebel positions. He says Heths and Wilcoxs divisions are on their right, and are throw- ing up works. These men were in the battle at Poplar Spring Church. These men will be sent to you at once. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 7 18 Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, 6411.45 ~ m. Commanding Fifth Corps: The major-general commanding desires a demonstration made to- morrow that will prevent the enemy from sending any additional forces to the north side of the James. lie therefore directs that you send out reconnaissances in your front to-morrow morning at 7 oclock and drive in the enemys pickets, and follow it up with such other movements as will give the impression that we are about advancing in force. General Parke, commanding Ninth Corps, has received the same orders, and there should be concert of action between you. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. (Same to General Parke. Page 107 CHAP. LIVI CORRESPONDENCE; ETC.IJNION. 107 CIRCULAR, HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 139. October 7, 1864. During the absence of the major-general commanding, on leave for eight days, the command of this corps will devolve upon Brigadier- General Crawford. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEAIJQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 18649.30 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual has transpired along my line during the past twenty-four hours. Work on the redoubts is progressing satisfactorily; also the slashing along the line connecting them. JNO. G. PARKE, iliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, War Department, Washington, D. C.: At 6.45 this morning the enemy attacked and drove Kantz back, and are now advancing on our right toward the rear in strong force. They have just opened fire upon Fort Harrison. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. (Copy to General Meade.) HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186410 a. m. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, City Point: I have ordered my dispatch to General Grant to be duplicated to you. Nothing has changed since that dispatch. I have thrown my right back, pnt Spring Hill, near New Market, in fighting order, and am waiting. Deserters report no new troops in my front, but a large por- tion withdrawn from Chaffins for this demonstration on the right. The force moving I make out to be ~ Bennings, and Greggs bri- gades infantry, a battalion of artillery, and Lomaxs brigade of cavalry. The shelling of Fort Harrison still goes on with vigor. If I can learn with a little more certainty about this movement on my right I shall take the offensive with two divisions of Birneys. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. I will direct the operator to take off at City Point any dispatch I may send to General Grant. B. F. BUTLER Page 108 108 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, October 7, 186412 rn. (Received 5 p. in.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Washington, D. C.: Kautzs cavalry were driven in with some loss. Birney easily re- pulsed the enemy on his right. I am now waiting for a little further information when I propose to assume the offensive with two divisions of Birney. I think this is only an attempt to hold the Darbytown road as far down as possible. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18646 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: At 6.45 this morning the enemy, having moved Fields and Hokes divisions from the left at Chaffins farm round at our right at Darby- town road, attacked with spirit Kautzs cavalry in their intrenchments and (Irove him back with small loss of men, but with the loss of his artillery. The enemy suffered very considerable loss in this attack. The enemy then swept down the intrenchments toward Birney, who, having thrown back his right, waited their assault and repulsed it with very heavy loss on the part of the enemy. The enemy, in the mean- time, advanced toward ~ew Market, but were met by a force at the signal tower. At 3 p. m. I took the offensive, sending Birney~ with two divisions up the Darbytown road. The enemy has retreated as he advanced, and he now has reached and occupies the intrenchments which the enemy took from Kautz and were fortifying for themselves. Our loss has been small; hot one-eighth of the enemys. We have about 100 prisoners. Will telegraph again if anything of interest occurs. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES. October 7, 186410 p.m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Washington, D. C.: Birney has regained Kautzs old position and holds the enemy in the inner line of intrenchments around Richmond, extending from the Darbytown road to connect with Weitzel on the left near Fort Harrison. There has been no movement at Petersburg to-day. We have much the best of this days work; 1,000, at the least, of the enemy killed and wounded, 100 prisoners, and a bloody repulse. General Gregg, com- manding Fields division, is reported by a lady. who saw the body, as killed. No news by Richmond papers, save that they boast that Hood is at Marietta strongly intrenched. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 109 CgAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 109 HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. (Received 8.20 a. in.) General D. B. BIRNEY: Be ready to send assistance to Kautz when he needs it. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18648.55 a. m. (Received 9.03 a. in.) General D. B. BIRNEY: Let your right fall back and be ready to meet the enemy, who are advancing. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. (Received 9.12 a. in.) General BIRNEY: Take good care that the enemy do not get between your right and IDeep Bottom. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649.45 a. m. (Received 10.10 a. in.) Major-General BIRNEY: I am inclined to think that the enemy, if they are in earnest on the right, will make the attack pretty far down toward New Market, so as to turn us if possible. A brigade of observation pretty well down might be well. What has become of Kautz ~ You say routed; I hope not as bad as that. BEXJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649.50 a. m. (Received 10.10 a. in.) Major-Geiieral BIRNEY: General Weitzel just says he sees no movement of troops in his front. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186410.15 a. m. Major-General BIRNEY- Refugee reports Laws, Benning~s, and Greggs brigades as the force of infantry, and a battalion of artillery with Lomaxs cavalry as the force of artillery and cavalry. If this be so, then it is but a demon Page 110 110 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. stration on the right, and it may be possible to push them. I think Weitzel can hold his left. I have ordered four pieces of artillery to join him near New Market. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. (Similar dispatch to General Weitzel.) flEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 186411.15 a. m. Major-General BUTLER, Commanding: I have repulsed the attack of the enemy on my right flank with great slaughter. The troops seem to be Fields and Picketts divisions. I send you a batch of prisoners. I am extending my right flank. The enemy seems to be intrenching on Darby road. D. B. BIRNEY. [ThdorsemenL] Forwarded as per the order of Brigadier.Genera[ Rawlins. B. F. BUTLER. (Copy to General Grant.) BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186411.15 a. m. Major-General BIRNEY: Dispatch by hand of aide received. Fields division, to wit, Laws, Bennings, and Greggs brigades, have always been here. There are four regiments of Picketts division. They may be on the move to get to our right; if so, I think we may send two divisions after them and get between them and their base. What think you ~ I can hear of no new troops coming over here BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186412 m. General BIRNEY: I think we must not let them intrench on the Darbytown road. Please advance upon them in such force as you can spare, and see if we cannot get on their flank. I am at telegraph office to confer with you. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS October 7, 186412.50 p. m. (Received 12.55 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: The enemy are not falling back front the Darbytown road, and hold a very strong position vacated by Kautz. I will try them at once Page 111 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 111 although I think they are preparing to assault me. Let General Weitzel relieve as much of General William Birneys line as possible. He is on my left. D. B. BIRNEY, ]Vffijor- General. If you think they are preparing to assault you, wait a little, aud let them come on. B. F. B[UTLER]. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18641.05 p. m. (Received 1.10 p. in.) Major-General BIRNEY: I have ordered Weitzel to relieve as much of William Birney as pos- sible. The prisoners say Hokes and Fields divisions are in your front. That would leave only Picketts regiments and local defense in front of Weitzel. If you can coax the enemy to attack you, do so. A rebel captain says that they had no troops other than infantry beyond Darbytown road. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. General BIRNEY: Colonel Rand, commanding at Deep Bottom, says his vedettes on the New Market road report the enemy moving dowii to the right of Spring Hill, and that no troops of ours are there save fifty or sixty cavalry. Will you look to this? GEG. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 18642.40 p. m. (Received 2.45 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: The following just reported: Major-General BIRNEY: The Eighteenth Corps pickets report the enemy massing in the woods in front of Fort Harrison. WM. BIRNEY, Brigadier-General. I). B. BIRNEY, (Copy to General Weitzel.) Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18642.50 p. m. Major-General BIRNEY: I think General W. Birneys information would show that the enemy means to move on Weitzel or the fort. If so, you will have a feint on you. All this will take place about 4 p. in. Keep your reserve well to your left. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]Jfc~or- General, Commanding Page 112 112 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. FOHAP. LIV. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18643.40 p. m. Major-General BIRNEY: Push them smartly. Weitzel will hold on. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. Major-General BIRNEY: The following just received from signal officer: SIGNAL TowER4.1O p. m. Lieutenant Brodie reports that the rebel artillery has withdrawn from our right and is taking a road apparently to our left. The enemy are throwing an occasional shot on our front. GEO. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18647.50 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Major-General BIRNEY: I think you are quite right in your suggestion as to the possible attack on Fort Harrison to-morrow morning. I do not precisely under- stand the position of your troops. Please explain a little more at length. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. Lient. Cot. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjntant-General, Department of Va. and N. C.: My corps is disposed as follows: Terry on right, holding Kautzs position of this morning, across the Darbytown road, with strong skirmish line; his brigades massed on Fosters right. Foster holds the right of my position this morning and General Birney the left, except- ing that portion relieved by the Eighteenth Army Corps. D. B. BIRNEY, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649.30 p. in. (Received 9.35 p. in.) Major-General BIRNEY: I have ordered General Kautz to move u~ from near Spring Hill, where he now is, and, reporting to Terry for this purpose, to take posi- tion to strengthen his right and flanks at daybreak. That may enable you to look a little more to your left. You can also order up your regi- ment from Deep Bottom. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 113 CHAr. LIV.] 113 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC,UNION. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186410.15 p. m. Major-General BIRNEY: I should have said signal tower instead of Deep Bottom. Kautz is ordered up. You can dispose of him as may be of most use. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 18646.45 a. m. General TERRY: General Kautz sends the following, dated 0 a. in.: The enemy is driving in my pickets on the Darby and Charles City roads. Cannot make ont their force. The major-general commanding directs you will be well, on your guard. Respectfully, yours, ~ ~. SHREVE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. 2D BRIG~, 3D Div., 10TH A. C., No. it. In the Field, October 7, 1864. In accordance with orders from headquarters Third Division, Tenth Army Corps, the nudersigued hereby assumes command of the Second Brigade, Third Division, Tenth Army Corps. The following-named will constitnte- the staff of the brigade com- mander and will be obeyed and respected accordingly: First Licut. Ira H. Evans, Ninth U. S. Colored Troops, acting assistant adjutant- general; First Lient. E. B. Burrows, Eighth U.S. Colored Troops, act- ing assistant quartermaster; First Lient. Henry G. Marshall, Twenty- ninth Connecticut Colored Volunteers, acting aide-dc-camp; First Lient. Jacob Ormerod, Forty-fifth U. S. Colored Troops, acting aide-de-camp. The division commissary will for the present, and by direction of Brig. Gen. William Birney, perform the duties of brigade commissary. SAML. C. ARMSTRONG, Lient. Col. Ninth U. S. Colored Troops, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649.30 a. m. General WEITZEL: Do you see anything on the left that looks like a demonstration, or is it only mortar firing ~ If they are massing troops at all there this move on the right may be the feint, but I am inclined to think not. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commaniding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. General BUTLER: I see no movement of the troops in my front. G. WEITZEL, J3revet ]iifojor- General, $ 11 l~Y0I~ l~LII, PT IL Page 114 114 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. (Received 9 a. in.) General WEJTZEL: Just received dispatch from General Birney stating that Kautz has been ronted and enemy are moving to his (Birneys) rear and right. Be ready. B. F. BUTLER, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649.55 a. m. Major-General WEITZEL: Have as strong a reserve force as you can spare ready to move to the aid of Birney if the attack develops itself on our right. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY C~oRPS, October 7, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Commandinq: Your dispatch received; all right. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet ]Jliajor. General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. Col. E. W. SMITH, A8sistant Adjutant- General: The enemy have opened their batteries on Fort Harrison. G. WEJTZKL. HEADQUARTERS EiGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 186411.30 a. m. Lieutenant~Colonel COMSTOCK, City Point: On my front the enemy is only shelling my key point, Fort Harrison. I see tio movements of enemys troops as yet. I have drawn out a little reserve of six regiments from my line to send to Birney if necessary. From the other points all I hear is that Kautz has been driven in, and that the enemy was on right and rear of i3irney. I have heard nothing from there during the last half hour, and at this moment all is quiet there. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General Page 115 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115 HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 186412 m. (Received 12.20 p. in.) Major-General WEITZEL: Birney reports that he easily repulsed the enemy on his right, but that Picketts and Fields divisions are going still farther to his right. If I take the offensive, what force can you spare to hold Birneys left~ BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I can spare six small regiments, about 1,000 men. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18641 p. m. General WEITZEL: Relieve as much of William Birneys [line] as you can. He is on your left. I believe that most of the force has been withdrawn from your front. I do not know any new troops that have come over. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. (Received 1.15 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: Your dispatch received. It will be attended to at once. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 7, 18641.30 p. m. Major-General WEITzEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps: From the best information I can get you have before you only a part of Picketts division (four regiments) and the Virginia local defense troops. Birney is about to make an attack. Aid him all you can. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. (Received 2 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH: I believe there is but a small force in my front. I have ordered still another regiment, a large one, to relieve a portion of General Birneys line. This is seven regiments I have sent. G. WEITZEL, Brevet ]Jfajor- General Page 116 116 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tOHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18643 p. m. (Received 3.55 p. in.) Major-General WEITZEL: The enemy, I think, will make a severe attack on you. Can you hold him ~ It will be about 4 oclock. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. General BUTLER: I can, if he attacks anywhere near Fort Harrison b ened my left very much to help Birney. , ut I have weak- G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major. General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS October 7, 1864. (Received 4.10 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: It is now 4 oclock and there is not the least indication of an attack on me. The unusual quiet is the only strange thing. I feel as if I could make a pretty good fight for a single line. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS October 7, 1864. (Received 7 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: Wont you please inform me what has transpired on Kautzs and Birneys front to-day, as I am ignorant of everything that has taken place there. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet ilfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS October 7, 18647.30 p. in. (Received 8.05 ~. in.) Major-General WEITZEL: At 6.45 a. in. Fields and Hokes divisions moved to our right and attacked Kantz, driving him back, with small loss in men, but all his artillery. The enemy then swept down toward Birney, who, having refused his right, met them and drove them back, with slaughter; tben Birney took the offensive, and, having inflicted a loss of 1,000 killed and wounded, and about 100 prisoners, now holds Kautzs old liffe. Kautz does not say what loss ho inflicted. Our loss is not one-eighth of theirs. B. F. BUTLER, Major- Ge~er4, Qomm~din~~ Page 117 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 117 HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: What is the latest news ~ G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18648 p. in. Major-General WEITZEL: Birney thinks the enemy have returned to their old position, and possibly with intent to attack your left or Harrison at daylight. I know you will be ready. We have much the best of this days work. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding, HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. (Received 8.40 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: Your dispatch received. Shall I continue to hold that part of Gen- eral Birneys line that I did this afternoon ~ G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18649 p. m. (Received 9.20 p. in.) Major-General WEITZEL: Birney now holds from the iDarbytown road to your right. I have directed him to strengthen his left, so as to be able to aid you in case of attack. If your men get their coffee early in the morning you can hold. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 1864. General BUTLER: Dispatch received; all light. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH CORPS Before Richmond, October 7, 1864. Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Corps: GENERAL: I wish you could give me specific instrnctions what I shall do in case the enemy at any time attempt to move by my front to turn my left. I think they can do this if they only knew it. My line is too weak to be stretched over more ground. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. J. PAINE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 118 118 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. THIRD Div., 18TH ARMY CORPS No. 103. 5 Before Richmond, Va., October 7, 1864. OFFICERS AND SOLDIERS OF THIS DIVISION: Major-General Birney, commanding Tenth Corps, has desired me to express to you the high satisfaction he felt at your good conduct while we were serving with the Tenth Corps, September 29 and 30 and with your gallantry in storming New Market Heights. I have delayed issu- ing this order, hoping for an opportunity to say this to you in person. Accept also my own thanks for your gallantry on September 29 and your good conduct since. You have the good opinion of the whole Army of the James and of every one who knows your deeds. Let every officer and man on all occasions exert himself to increase your present deserved reputation. CHAS. J. PAINE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. Colonel POTTER: Do not open if the enemys gun-boats do not fire. The signal officer on your right reports a new embrasure near Howletts. Keep a sharp lookout in that direction. GEG. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff. JONES LANDING, October 7, 1864. General BUTLER: My vedette line on the New Market road reports that rebel cavalry and infantry are moving down to the right of Spring Hill. No troops there, save fifty or sixty cavalry. ARNOLD A. RAND, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 18647.15 p. m. General KAUTZ: I grieve for your loss. You do not state what loss you inflicted on the enemy. The enemy attacked General Birneys right; were repulsed with slaughter, with a loss of 1,000 killed and wounded and 100 prisoners. Birney then took the offensive and drove them back, and now holds your old line with a division of infantry. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 7, 1864. Brigadier-General KAUTZ: General Terry, with such troops as he has under his command, holds your old position. You will move up your command just before day, and, reporting to him for this purpose, take position to strengthen his right and flanks. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 119 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 119 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 186410.30 a. m. (Sent 10.50 a. in.) Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: I have nothing very particular to communicate this a. m. Deserters from the enemy report no change in positiou of troops or indications of movements. The enemy is apparently engaged ill fortifying against a farther advance. By direction of the lieutenant-general command- ing, received last night, I am this morning advancing my pickets ahd making threatening demonstrations along my front with a view of pre- venting any detachments by the enemy. GEG. G. MEADE, Miajor- General. (Same to Brigadier-General Rawlins, City Point.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18645 p. m. (Sent 6.40 p. in.) - Major-General BUTLER, Deep Bottom: The reconnoitering parties sent forward this morning along the front from the Jerusalem plank road to the extreme left drove the enemys pickets into their works, which were found well manned. From pris- oners taken to-day, and from several deserters who caine in this morn- ing, 1 am of the opinion there are in front of me ileths, Wilcoxs, Ma- hones, and B. Johnsons divisions, extending from the Appomattox to the South Side Railroad, in the order enumerated; ileth on their right and Johnson on the left. The lines advanced to-day will be withdrawn after dark. GEG. G. MEADE, ilJiajor- General. (Same to Brigadier-General Rawlins, City Point.) HEADQUARTERS, Near Varina, October 8, 18647.45 p. in. (Received 11 a. in. 9th.) Major-General MEADE: Dispatch received. Upon full examination I agree as to your force, It was reported to me in the morning of yesterday that prisoners from ileths and Wilcoxs divisions were captured. This at first caused some anxiety, but upon personal examination I find that they were soldiers of those divisions who had deserted and been, in the exigency, taken out of Castle Thunder and put into the local defense. We have before mis Field, Hoke, four regiments of Pickett, and Bushrod Johnsons composite brigade, and some 5,000 local defenses. In the affair of yesterday we killed General Gregg, commanding Fields division- wounded severely General Bratton, Colonel 1-laskell, of the Seventh South Carolina Infantry [Cavalry], and Major Haskell, of the South Carolina artillery, and quite 1,000 others; captured 150 prisoners and deserters. - I have over 50 deserters to-day. We lost less than 400 all told. All quiet to-day. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]ITajor- General, Commanding. This message was delayed by break in line between City Point and General Butlers. OPERATOR Page 120 120 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18641.15 p. m. Major-General MEADE, Comdg. Army of the Potomac, Headquarters Ninth Corps: Two prisoners from Sixteenth North Carolina, Scales brigade, Wil- coxs division, sent in by the Fifth Corps, state all the brigades of Wil- coxs division are on this side the Appomattox. Scales and Ander- s6ns (formerly of Fields division) are not far from the lead-works, while Lanes and McGowans, they say, are some distance off on their right, with ileths division. They represent the cavalry to be con- necting with their right. Thomas brigade, when they last heard of it, was north of the Appomattox. This was some time ago. Thomas and Anderson are represented to have exchanged. This disposition of the troops agrees with the statement of the two deserters from Lanes brigade sent in yesterday by General Parke. A. A. HUMPHIREY5 ]Jfajor-~eneral and Chief of A1taff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHALGENERAL Major-General IIUMPHREYS, October 8, 1864. Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Two deserters have just been forwarded from the head- quarters Ninth Army Corps. They came into our lines this a. m. at sunrise. One from the Fourteenth South Carolina, McGowans brigade, states that he left his brigade about half a mile to the west of the Jones house and about half a mile from the plank road (Boydton). Lanes brigade was on the right of McGowans, these two brigades be- ing all of Wilcoxs division in that vicinity. Part of Heths division on the left of McGowans brigade. Only knows of Archers brigade being there. The one from the Eleventh North Carolina Ki of ileths division, states that his brigade , rklands brigade, (Kirklands) is on the ex- treme right of the infantry line and joins the cavalry; Davis brigade next on the left, then Cookes joining Davis. No other infantry on the right. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIc~NAL DEPARTMENT, Major-General IIUMPHREXrS, October 8, 1864. Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following dispatch from the plank road station is respectfully forwarded: At sundown a considerable force of infantry was in line between the lead-works and point of woods northwest of station. I can form no idea of their numbers. The column appears through openings in the timber at different points from near lead- works to half i~ mile to the right, but neither end is visible, nor do they give any indication as to the direction they will move. There was also additional evidence - of movements on our left, a continual rising of dust seen between sundown and dark in vicinity of the fort west of the Weldon railroad Page 121 CHAP. LIv.1 CORRESPONIDENCE, ETC.UNIoN. 121 At 5 p. m. Captain Davis reports about 1,000 men,infantry, moving westward on the Boydton plank road. They were seen passing a point a quarter of a mile west of the toll-gate. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. ~. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 272. October 8, 1864. 1. Leave of absence is granted to the following-named officers: Maj. Geui. John Gibbon, volunteer service, for eight days; Maj. Gen. A. A. lluinphrey~, volunteer service, for seven days. * * * * * * * 3. Col. J. C. Tidball, Fourth New York Artillery, is assigned to the command of the Artillery Brigade, Ninth Army Corps, and will report accordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. (Received 9 a. in.) General WILLIAMS: No change is reported on my line. Two deserters, one from Harris brigade and one from Finegans brigade, came in during the night. They report nothing new. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. General WILLIAMS: One of Gibbons division attempted to desert to the enemy this morn- ing and was killed by one of our sharpshooters. His body has not been secured. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 8 Major-General HANCOCK, 18641.50 ~ m. (Sent 2 p. in.) Corn anding Second Corps: General Crawford and General Parke are making a reconnaissance, and General Crawfords picket-line is now advanced beyond where it was this morning. It will be established further forward permanently. Please have your picket-line on the left thrown forward correspondently, and the connection with the Fifth Corps kept up. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 122 122 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP, LIV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS: In the advance of the Fifth Corps picket there was such a gap made from right to left that General Crawford says it will take 140 men to fill up the gap. It is filled, however, but General Crawford asks me to replace the men, which I submit to you for your decision. You well know what parties, if any, should be called upon to furnish. I had ordered it filled up, but when I sent to have it done found that it had been filled by Fifth Corps. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 8, 1864. (Received 4.55 p. in.) General HUMPUREYS, Chief of Staff: Two deserters from Wises brigade have just come in. They report nothing new. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: Your dispatch relative to space between the Second and Fifth Corps pickets filled by a detail from Fifth Corps is received. I understand from General Crawfords dispatches that this space became open by the advance of his picket-line, and I suppose that if your picket-line was thrown forward correspondingly the vacancy would be filled with- out any new detail. Is this so, or must an additional number be put on picket, whether your line is advanced or not ~? A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Respectfully referred to Major-General Mott. The commanding general desires to be informed whether this con- nection can be properly made by moving forward your left; and ,if so, that it will be done without further orders. By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BINGHNM, Major, Judge-Advocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK: I advanced my whole picket-line this morning by orders from Gen- eral Meade. It will take 140 men to make the connection good between your left and my right. I supplied a portion of the men this morning, and will be glad if you will send the requisite number to relieve th Page 123 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 123 men sent out by me and to make the connection strong. This will require 140 men, and my officers are instructed to post them when they arrive. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Commanding. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Respectfully referred to General Mott. After reading please return. After receiving your report as to the number of men put on by you to make the connection, I will refer the matter to General Meade to adjust the number to be furnished here- after, but do not leave a gap. By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BJNGHAM, Major, Jndge-Advoeate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 8, 18641.50 p. m. Brevet Major-General MOTT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: General Crawford is advancing his line, under directions from the headquarters of the army, and will take up a permanent posi- tion in front of the line he has heretofore held. The general desires you to advance the left of yonr picket-line to conform to the moveineut of General Crawfords line, consulting if necessary with General Craw- ford. It is understood the movement referred to is now being made. Very respectfully, your obedient servant. C. H. MORGAN, l2ieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18642.3Ojp.m. Maj. H. H. BiNGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjntant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the Fifth Corps have broken the connection of the picket-line, and there is now nearly half a mile where there are no pickets on the line, and no connection with my left. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major-General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Bvt. Maj. Gen. G. MOTT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding desires me to inform you that the detail ordered from your division by letter from these head- quarters of yesterday need not report to-morrow morning, it being Sun- day, but will report Monday morning again at the usual hour. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. BINGHAM, Major, Jndgc-Adeocate and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 124 124 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRs. 1ST BRIG., 311) Div., 2D CORPS, No. 86. October 8, 1864. I. During the temporary absence of Brig. Gem ZR. de Trobriand, Col. William ZR. Brewster, Seventy-third New York Yoluuteers, will assume command of this brigade. TI. Second Lient. P. Crawford, Seventeenth Maine Volunteers, is hereby detailed for duty as engineer officer of this brigade, and will report to Col. William ZR. Brewster, commanding brigade, for duty. III. First Lient. J. F. Kavanagh, Fortieth New York Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty as engineer officer of this brigade and will at once report to the commanding officer of his regiment. By command of Brig. Gen. ZR. de Trobriand: JAMES M. LINNARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18648.50 a. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: General Parke sends word that his line is advancing on the left. My own line is pushing out, but its right is so close to the enemys line that they cannot advance over fifty yards without drawing fire from the enemys works. Our signal officer reports our skirmish line pushed out on the Squirrel Level road and slowly advancing. Respectfully, ~. ~. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18649.50 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: GENERAL: Our line has advanced on the left nearly a mile in front of our present position. It occupies a line of old works of the enemy. The enemy have a thin line in their works. Their advanced sentinels have been driven from their line of pits on our right of the railroad and the line advanced. The distance is so great that I desire to know if I shall still go toward the enemys works. Scales and McGowans brigades, of Wilcoxs division, are in our front. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. P. S.The picket-line is well supported by a brigade of each division. S. W. C. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 186410.30 a. m. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Army Corps: Your dispatch of 9.50 is just received. The object of your movement is not to attack the enemy, but to make him believe that you intend to attack. A supporting force should follow your picket or skirmish line Page 125 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 125 and your whole force should make a show of moving forward; but if your pickets or skirmishers would be in danger of being overpowered by advancing farther they should not move on. You must use your own judgment as to this and other matters connected with your recon- naissance. A. A. HUMPUREYS, ijijajor-General and Chief of Staff. [indorsement.] OFFICIAL.J HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Furnished for the information of Generals Griffin and Ayres. The skirmishers will be pushed out until the enemy~s force is developed, and the supports will be kept close at hand, so as to make as great a display of force in the face of the enemy as it is ~possible to do. By command of Brigadier-General Crawford, commanding corps: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Major-General HUMPITREYS: Have received your dispatch of 10.30, and will act in accordance with it. Could not get off my last message to you before yours was trans. mitted, owing to an interruption in the wire. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 8, 186412.15 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Colonel Dana, commanding the skirmish line, reports that he has driven the enemy back to their works on our right in front of Fort Howard; that they appeared in considerable force and fired a volley at our men and yelled at them from their works. Under his instruc- tions the right of our line has advanced as far as it can go. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18641 p. m. (Sent 1.12 p. ni.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: The major-general commanding directs that when you have advanced your reconnaissance as fir as you can with security, and have obtained all the information of the position aud force of the enemy that it is pr~tic~ble to obtaiu by reconna~ssaiwc, you will withdrnw the fore Page 126 [CHAP. LIV. 126 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. engaged in the movement. This will be done in concert between the two corps. The commanding general desires that advantage be taken of the information gained to-day to advance the picket-line beyond its former position, holding as far in front as practicable, and improving the line in every way that the ground admits of. A. A. HUMPHREYS, ]Ilajor-General and Chief of Staff. (Same to General Parke, commanding Ninth Corps.) OFFICIAL.1 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CoRPS. Fnrnished for the information of division commanders, who will please endeavor to gain all the information possible by the advance of the picket-line. By command of Brigadier-General Crawford: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18G41.20 p. m. General HuMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: My line has no connection with the Second Corps on the right in front of Fort Howard. I have ordered a regiment to support that flank. Will the Second Corps connects? Yours of 1 p. in. just received. I can establish the picket-line in a mnch better position than it held before the reconnaissance. Nothing later from the left. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18G41.50 p. m. (Sent 2 p. in.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: Colonel Collis~ with all the infantry atheadqnarters, was sent to Fort Howard and ordered to report to you. General Hancock will be informed at once that you have advanced yonr picket-line and will be directed to connect with it. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18G42.15 p. m. (Sent 3 p. in.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: Have you obtained any information to-day as to what divisions and brigades of the enemy are in your front or are present on the south side of the Appomattox~ The commanding general wishes to have all the information upon that snbject as soon as practicable A. A. HUMIPHIREYS Major- General and Chief of ~Staff Page 127 CHAP. MV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 127 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18642.40 p. m. (Sent 3 p. in.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: When you have completed your reconnaissance and get back your troops, please send back the headquarters troops as soon as you can dispense with them. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Your instructions have been received and will be complied with. The troops will be withdrawn at dark. General Meade is here. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 8, 18641.30 a. m. (Received 4.20 a. in.) General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: By direction of the major-general commanding, you will make a demonstration to my front at 7 in the morning. General Potters division is on the left of Generul Griffin. I have directed General Pot- ter to advance his skirmish line with strong supports. I presume Jiat General Griffin will be instructed to advance his and preserve the connection. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18643.45 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: I have received orders for the advance of the whole picket-hue at 7 a. m. with a brigade from each division in support of its line. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Corps. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18647.30 a. m. Major-General PARKE: I have directed that a close communication should be established and preserved with your line. Is the line moving ~? It is starting ou the right. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier-General, Commanding Fifth Gorps Page 128 128 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 8, 18647.45 [a. in.]. (Receiv& i 8 a. in.) General CRAWFORD, ~Jommanding Fifth Army Corps: My line is moving on the left. It, of necessity, must move out before my center and right, still I have directed that the connections with your corps be constantly preserved. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186411.06 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding: Have you developed any force of the enemy opposite your left ~ Pris~ oners taken report ~ and McGowans brigades, of Wilcoxs division, in my front. Do you propose to advant~e farther ~ S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier.Ueneral, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 8, 186411.30 a. m. General CRAWFORD: I am advancing my left. The center is far ahead of the rest of my line, and the right keeps pace with your left. I have a deserter this morning from McGowans brigade. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The right of my skirmish line has advanced in front of Fort Howard and driven the enemy back to their works, where they seem to be in considerable force. This portion of my line is as far advanced as it can be. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 8, 1864. Major-General PARKE: GENERAL: The object of the reconnaissance has been accomplished on the right, and I have given orders for the establiBhlnent of the picket- line on the right only. Has your left advanced? General Ayres has orders to take the W. Davis house in bis front. Please let me know when your line halts and you have accomplished your object, as we must fall back camfuily and together, ~. W. CRAWFORD, Briga~lier- Gei~Qral Page 129 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 129 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18643.50 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: I have given instructions for my troops to withdraw as soon as it is dark; the picket-line to be established in [the] advanced position. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18644.30 [p. in.]. General CRAWFORD: Your dispatch of 3.50 received. I have given directions for the retir- ing of my force on the extreme left and at Hawks house, and establish the new picket-line on my center and right; will correspond with yours. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18645.05 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: Your dispatch received. The picket-line of Griffin and Ayres will be to-night very near the same position as last night. The right of the line from the railroad to. Hancocks left has becit advanced. Report from our signal station says about 1,000 of enerny~s infantry have just passed a point on ~oydton plank road going westward. Respectfully, ~. ~. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. The entire corps will be nuder arms at 6 a. mu. and ready to move. At 7 a. m. the enemys picket-line will be driven in along our whole front. General Ayres division, with Braggs arid Hofmanns brigades, of Baxters division (Third), will move in support of the line and threaten an attack on the enemys works in their front. Brigadier- (~eneral Griffin will hold his division in readiness to support the attack in case it is necessary to make a more extended attack. The chief of artillery will supply the necessary batteries in case of an advance. Gemi- eral Ayres will select an officer to advance the picket-line of the whole corps. One brigade from each division will support its own picket-line in the advance. By command of Brigadier-General Crawford: A. S. MARVIN, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. 9 R RYOL XLIl~ PT Il Page 130 180 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [Ga LIV. SPECIAL Onne, ~ HUaDQuAnTERS FnTH Anxr CoRps, Xo. 250. 3 October 8,1864. . S II. The battalion of the Eighth U. S. Infantry, having reported in compliance with paragraph VII, Special Orders, No. 271, headquarters Army of the Potomac, is assipned to the First B~e, Second Divis- ion, apd will report to Brigadier-General Ayres, commanding division. S S S S S S By command of Brigadier-General Orawfor~commandinj7Ps: Aeeietnt A4jutant-Geiser.L HEADQUARTERS FIFTH Ann CORPS, October 8, 1864. General Gmnnr: (iRAL: The commanding general directs me to inform you that Colonel Dana has pushed out his skirmish line on the right, opposite to Fort Howard, driving back the enemy to thdr works, where they app~arto bein considerable force. Theyhave fired vollepof musketry at our men, and yell them from their works; This portion of the line bas advanced as far asit can go nder present instructions. Have you anythin9 new in your front? ry respec , your obedient FRED. T. ~ Aeeietat A4jstat-Geaerai. (Same to General Ayres.) HEwQuARTns FIFTH Ar CoRn, October 8,1864. Brig. Get CHAmZs GRIWIN, Commanding First Dis,ieion: GnERAL: The following is furnished for your information: Two prisoners from Sixteenth North Carolina, Scales? briga4e, Wilcoxs division, sent in by the Fifth Corps, state all the brigades of Wicox~ division are on this side the Appomattox. Scales and Andersons, formerly of Fields division, are not far from tbe lead-works, while Lane7s and McGowans, they say, are some distance off on their right, with Heths division. Theyrepresent the cavalry tobe connecting with their right Thorns brigade, when they last heard of it, was north of the Appomattox. This was some time ago. Thomas and Anderson are represented to have exch~inged. This disposition of the troops agrees with the statement of the two deserters from Lands brigade, sent in yesterday by General Parke. Prisoners received to-day report that Scalen brigade was sent to Richmond during the recent operations near that city and have only returned within the last three days. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Metetant A4jutautGo,ser Page 131 Ow. LIY.J CORUESPORDENCE, ETC.UNION. 181 HnDQUnTnS FIFTH ARMY Cons, General Gumrnr: October 8,1864. Gmaa: will you please send me spy information you may have in regard to the position of the enemy. General Ayrss is directed to advance and take the W. Davis house. Has the Ninth Corps moved with your division, or have you had anytrouble in regard to your left? I desire that you will select some good line and re-establish the picket- line to-night. We have driven the enemys skirmishers into theirworks on the right. The picket-line must be in advance of where it was last night All I desire is that the enemy should see your force. When that is accomplished, or the enemys skirmish line drawn in, the object of the reconnaissance is accomplished and you are at liberty to with- draw your command iii connection with your right and let Please inform me of the situation. Very respectfully, your obedient servan~ ORAWFORl~ HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvIsIoN, FIFTH Cozn, Major-General CRAWFoRD7 8,1864. Cwmmandmg Cosy.: GnnaL: Your note is received. I have the honor to report that my picket-he is advanced and is about 1,000 yards from the enemys works on my left and about 500 yards from his skirmish line, in full view. My left rests near the Boswell house. Very respectfully, your obedient servan~~ GRIFFIN, Brigadier-Oesseral, Oosesasdia,. H.uwQuaRTnS FIFTH ARMY Cons, Brigadier-General GRIm, 8,1864. Commanding First Divieion: GEnRiL: The commanding general directs me to acknowledge the .receipt of your dispatch, and to say that it is satisfaotorj, and that you have gone far enough. So soon as General Ayres comp etes the estab- lishment of his line you can withdraw. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant FRED. ~t. LOCKE, Assistant A4jvtant-Geserai. HnDQUARTERS FIFTH Ar Cons, Colonel Dan, October 8,1864.. lild Pemssyivania Yohmteers, Comig. Picket-IA..: CoLonL: The general commanding directs me to say that you will push out the skirmish line until the enemys line of battle is developed. The object of this movement is not to attack the enemy, but to mak Page 132 132 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. Liv. him believe that we intend to attack. Instructions will be sent at once to Generals Griffin and Ayres to have their supports close at hand. Should onr skirmish line in their forward movement become in danger of being overpowered it will at once halt. Keep the general command- ing informed of what is going on. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18641.20 p. m. Brigadier-General AYRES, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: You will at once advance your troops, take possessiou of the Davis house, driving the enemy from it, and establish your picket- line there, so as to straighten youi line with General Griffin on your left. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS~ October 8, 1864. (Received 2 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ijfth Corps: COLONEL: I have the honor to reply to yonr note that my skirmish line is on a line with the XV. Davis house, as far forward as is judicious to send it. The enemy have a line of infantry sufficient, in connection with their artillery, to make a strong Rght. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. AYRES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Brigadier-General AYRES, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note respecting your skirmish line. In reply, I am directed by the geneud commanding to say that it is satisfactory, and that you need not pro- ceed any farther. lie desires you to establish your picket-line in advance of where it was last night, selecting for the purpose some good ground and making good your connection right and left. Please report any information you may have gained with respect to the enemy and his position and works. Prisoners received state that their picket- line was not allowed to be relieved this morning, but that the relief and the old detail remained in the pits in your front. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistaat Adjutant- General Page 133 CHAP, LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133 HEADQUARTERS~FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Brigadier-General AYRES, Gommanding Second Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to say that you can use your own judgment about the withdrawal of your picket-line, but it lrnlst not be drawn so far back as to be in rear of the line occupied last night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, A ssistant Adjntant- General. IIEADQITARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 8, 1864. (Received 9 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifth Corps: COLONEL: I have the honor to report the operations of my division to-day. I advanced my pickets according to orders. They were advanced till the enemys were struck outside their main works. I also advanced a brigade on the Vaughan and one on the Squirrel Level road. I subsequently burned the W2 Davis house. I also drew back my picket-line at dark, preferring the old line. I lost a few men. I wilt send in a nominal list of casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. B. AYRES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 8, 186412.15 p. m. By this movement it is not intended to fight a battle. The purpose is to make a show of force, to make the enemy believe we intend to attack. It is not desired that the skirmish line be advanced to a position where they will be in danger of being overpowered. Should the enemy send out a strong force to attack it is expected that the skirmish line and the supporting troops shall fight retiring, according to tactics. By order of Brigadier-General Ayres: C. E. LA MOTTE, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. OCTOBER 8, 1864 2.20 a. in. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant A djutant- General: You will please direct the whole corps to be under arms and ready to move at 6 a. m. this morning. At 7 oclock the enemys picket-line will be driven in along our whole front. Ayres division, with Braggs and Uofmanns brigades, of Baxters division, will move in support of the line, and threatemm an attack on the enemys works in their front. Brigadier-General Griffin will hold his division in readiness to suppor Page 134 134 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. the attack, in case it is necessary to make a more extended attack. The chief of artillery will supply the necessary batteries, in case of an advance. General Ayres will select an officer to advance the picket- line of the whole corps. General Crawford directs me to send you the following order* in regard to the movement. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD C. BAIRD, Assistant A~jntant- General. P. S.One brigade from each division will support its own picket- line in the advance. Please have the signal officer at his post at day- light this morning, and issue the necessary orders at once to have the above movement effected. OCTOBER 8, 1864. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: General Crawford directs me to request you to telegraph General Parke in regard to this movement, and that the whole picket- line will be advanced at 7 oclock with a brigade from each division in support of its line. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD C. BAWD, Assistant Adjntant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH AR.~ v CORPS, October 8, 18648 a. ni. Major-General HulvwHnEvs, Chief of Staff: A deserter has just come in from the Twenty-seventh North Carolina, MacRaes brigade; says that he came on picket yesterday evening amid would have been relieved to-night; that when he came out all of Heths division was here, and lie thinks two brigades at least of Wilcox. Thinks that if tbeue had been any movement of Heths division he would have known it. JNO. G. PARKE, ]Jiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTh ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18649.45 a. m. Major-General HuMPHREYS: General Potter is advancing his line; reports the enemy has very materially increased his skirmish line. General Willeox moved out toward Hawks. His advance within 400 yards of rebel redoubt; found a working party there, which has retired. He will make a demonstra- tion on the redoubt. I dont think it can be occupied by any force. JNO. G. PARKE, _______________ __ ]liliajor-General. See Humphreys to Crawford, 11.45 p. in., 7th, p. 106 Page 135 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 135 HEADQUARTERS NINTH AUMY CORPS, October 8, 18G41O.15 a. m. (Received 11.35 a. in.) Major-General HUMPHREYS: General Wilicox reports that he now occupies the rebel redoubt. He is sending small parties ont ill advance to feel the enemy. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18G411.30 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Yinth Corps: General Crawford telegraphs at 10.50 a. in. that the left of his line has advanced nearly a mile in front of his present position, and occupies a line of old works of the enemy; that the enemy have a thin line in their works. How is it with your reconnaissance I A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chif of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18G4i1.30 a. m. (Received 11.40 a. in.) Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staif: General Potter reports at 10.15 that his right has considerably advanced; I presume, of course, keeping pace with the left of the Fifth Corps. ~ center is far ahead of his whole line. Wilicox is now sending out from the rebel redoubt; says the enemys skirmishers MI back before him and now occupy a ridge between the redoubt and Boydton plank road. JNO. U. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864--1.15 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Dispatch of 1 p. m. received. A dispatch from General Wilicox of 12.30 p. m. states that he cannot safely advance his right any farther. He has directed General Hartranft to attack the enemys skirmishers on the left. As soon as I hear the result of this I will direct the retain of Wilcox, in connection with the Fifth Corps movement. The center of the line occupies such a salient position that itis not safe to advance it unless our left is thrown well around to the northward, but this is not prudent in my opinion. As far as I can judge at present the enemy occupy about the same position as they did when General Mott advanced, although their skirmishers were considerably advanced. The center. a salient point on our extreme northwest, is now on the most favorable ground and I will not change it. To the right and left I will make the dispositions directed. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. See Humplireys to CrawforJ (same to Parke), p. 125 Page 136 136 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 18642.10 p. m. (Sent 2.22 p. in.) Major-General PARKE, Corn manding Ninth Corps: Jf the deserters from MacRaes and McGowans brigades are still at your headquarters, will you endeavor to ascertain from them where the rest of Heths and Wilcoxs divisions are, aiid send any other informa- tion of the position of the enemys troops you have gained to-day? It is desirable to ascertain whether all of Hills corps, as well as John- sons division, of Beauregards troops, are still south of the Appomattox. A. A. HUMPHiREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18642.40 p. m. Major- General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I have again examined these two deserters. One from ~ brigade left last evening. Says that McGowan and Lane were here yesterday; that when they left the intrenchments before Petersburg Scales was north of the James and Thomas north of the Appomattox. The other belongs to MacRaes, and says positively that MaciRae, Davis, and Cooke were here yesterday, and does not know whether Archer was away or not; thinks not. They do not know anything of Johnsons troops. Owing to a change in provost guard these men were not sent up this morning. J have heard nothing later from General Willcox. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS NINTH - ARMY CORPS No. 195. 5 Peebles House, Va., October 8, 1864. * * * * * * * 5. Brig. Gen. J. F. Hartranft, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, is hereby assigned temporarily to the command of the Third Division, Ninth Army Corps. By command of Maj. Gen. John G. Parke: JNO. C. YOUNGMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST 1)IYI5ION, NiNTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18648.45 a. in. Maj. P. M. LYDIG, Assistant A djut ant- General, Ninth Army Corps: MAJOR: Hartranfts and McLanghlens brigades are in line in rear of the cavalry vedettes on both sides of the road. I will move forward again as soon as the connection is established between McLaughlen Page 137 CHAP. LIV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 137 right and Harrimans left. The enemys skirmishers in their pits are discovered on the left of the road about 500 yards in front of Hartranfts and extending toward our left and rear. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvISIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18649.30 a. m. Major LYDIG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: My advance is now up to the rebel works on the right of the road and General Hartranfts advance is within 400 yards of the rebel redoubt near the Hawks house. He found a working party there, which has retired. I will make a demonstration on the redoubt in a few minutes. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186410.05 a. m. Major LYDIG-, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: I occupy the redoubt near the Hawks house and am sending a small party farther in advance to feel the enemy beyond the works, and shall gradually extend toward the left. I am, very respectfully, & c., 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186410.15 ci. m. Major LYDIa-, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: I have information from several points that the enemys main force is moving toward my left. My skirmish line now confronts the ene~ny~s skirmishers, and they are inclined to dispute our farther advance. Have you any orders ~? I am, very respectfully, & c., 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186410.10 a. m. Brigadier-General WILLCOX: Received dispatch of 10.05. General Potter reports 9.30 that his left brigade (Griffins) report the enemy moving from their right toward my (Potters) left. Colonel Harriman should be apprised of this. Respectfully, yours, JN0. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 138 138 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. [First indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, October 8, 186410.35 a. m. Respectfully referred to Colonel Harriman, commanding First Bri- gade, for his information. By order of General Wilicox: JNO. D. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Second indorsement.] OCTOBER 8, 186411.20 [a. in.]. GENERAL: Officer from the skirmish line reports the enemy still moving to our left- also reports the enemy having left the large field in our front. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAM. HARRIMAN, Colonel, (ommanding First Brigade. IIEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARlYrY CORPS October 8, 186410.20 a. m. Major LYDIG-, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: MAJOR: General Hartranft reports a heavy line of battle advancing rapidly in his immediate front. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 8, 186410.55 a. m. General WILLCox, (Jommanding Division. Have you any further information of ~he enemys advancing a line ol battle? What news have you from flarriman ~ Where is his skirmish line, and is the skirmish line up with that of the enemy~ I do not wish to move out Ferreros men until there is a pressing necessity. Do you think this exists Yours, & c., JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. [Indorsement. I The signal officer reports 10.30 that the enemy do not appear to anticipate any demonstration on our part. They are burning brnsh on their line and clearing up. Save this, everything is quiet. No work- ing parties visible. The travel on the telegraph road is the same as ordinary. 0. B. W[ILLCOXJ Page 139 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 139 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186411.15 a. m. Major LYDIQ Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: The enemy have iiot developed any main line of battle as yet, but their skirmish line, which fell back before my advance, has returned part way and occnpy a ridge intermediate between their old ant new lines of works, re-enforced probably by their reserves. This ridge crosses the direct road between the Hawks honse and the plank road. I have ordered a regiment as far np the road as is safe to reconnoiter. Colonel Harriman has not advanced his right in consequence of the troops on his right not moving. Contraband in Hawks honse says it is three miles from that house to the l)lank road, and that the enemys works did not cross the plank road last Wednesday. 1 am, very respectfully, & c., 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186411.35 a. m. Major LYDIG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: Your dispatch directing me not to bring on a general engagement is received, 11.35 oclock. I do not think it judicious to extend any farther to the left. The colored troops had better be sent up. I am throwing up temporary works from redoubt 200 yards to left of the road. The main object of attracting the enemys attention seems to be accomplished. I am, very respectfully, ~. B. WIILLCOX, Brigadier- General, Com~manding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186411.40 a. m. General WILLcox: General Potter reports 10.15 that his center is far ahead of his line, and that the left will have to move considerably before he can advance much farther, o wing to the nature of things. If you can remain in your line and can make a drive on the enemys skirmishers at some favorable point, do so. Yours, respectfully. ~ G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186411.50 a. m. Major LYDIG-, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: - The enemys line has retired from the ridge since the movement of a regiment up the road. I do not think it necessary to bring out Ferreros men at present. I have just heard from Harriman. There is a small Page 140 140 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [ChAP. LIV. gap between him and MeLaughlen, which he is filling by moving out more men from his main works. I have ordered him to move out no more men than are necessary for supports and connections. His skir- mish line has advanced with the other two brigades. He reported at 10.10 that the vedettes near the right of his line reported the enemy moving to our left and that his skirmish line confronted that of the enemy for quite a distance and that his connections were good. Since then I have heard from him and he reports miothing. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186412.15 p. m. Major LYDIG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: MAJOR: I have sent out scouting parties in a northerly direction from the Hawks house and ~ilso one to the left, with instructions to reach the plank road if possible. I am holding my lines near the Hawks house~. I am, very respectfully, & c., 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier-General, Commanding. P. S.Just heard from reconnoitering party up the northerly road from Hawks house. It moved up half a mile; met the enemys ye- dettes; exchanged shots, and wounded one of their vedettes (mounted). Their vedettes then fell back to their skirmish line. The reconnoiter- ing party heard the movement of wheels in their front. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 8, 18641.55 p. m. General WILLOOX: Inclosed I send you a copy of a dispatch* just received from general headquarters. I have not heard from General Crawford in reference to the time of his withdrawal. As soon as I do I will let you know. I wish you at once to have the new line of pickets located connecting with the left of General Potters. This line should be studied and determined on before withdrawing, and steps taken to have the line strengthened as suggested in General Hnmnphreys dispatch. Of course, I do not wish to hold out as far as you now occupy, and it may be that parts of the old line will have to be reoccupied, but, of course, all of this must be determined after a study of the ground. The instructions, however, state to advance the picket-line beyond its former posi- Very resl)ectfnlly, yours, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. See Humplireys to Crawfor4 (same to Parke), 1 p. in., p. 125 Page 141 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 141 ORDERS.1 IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 18G42.30 a. m. A reconnaissance by this division will be made this morning as fol- lows: The Second Brigade, Brigadier-General Hartranft commanding, will move so as to have the head of his column rest on the road near the Emory honse (Colonel Harrimans old position on the left) by 7 a.m., followed by the Third Brigade. Colonel McLaughlen commanding. Colonel Harriman, commanding Ffrst Brigade, will relieve the pickets from Colonel MeLaughiens brigade at daybreak. Colonel Harriman will extend his line to the right so as to take np the line now held by Colonel McLanghlen in addition to his present line. The camps of the respective brigades will not be distnrbed, and the troops will move in light marching order, carrying only their arms, acconterments, rations, and sixty rounds of ammnnition. The skirmish line will be advanced under the direction of Colonel Harriman. As soon as the troops are set in motion all the brigade commanders will report to the general commanding the division at these headquarters for further instructions. By command of Brig. Gen. 0. B. Wilicox: JNO. P. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST DIv., NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Capt. JOHN D. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I will move ont my command and will place them in rear of my skirmish line on the right. They are moving out now. There will be quite a large gap between my left and Colonel McLaughlens right, which I will till up with a skirmish line. I have 400 men out as skirmishers and 300 as support. Respectfully, your obedient servant, SAM. HARRIMAN, Corps Officer of the Day. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 186411.25 a. m. Colonel HARRIMAN, Commanding First Brigade: Your dispatch just received. The general commanding directs that you keep the men that are in your works to hold them, and not to send ont more than you require, in case your skirmishers are driven in, to allow them to retire in safety, or more than may be necessary to keep up your connections, together with the requisite supports in advancing. I .am, very respectfully, JNO. ~. BERTOLETTE Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 8, 18641.30 a. m. General FERRERO, Gommanding Third Division: Generals Willcox and Potter will advance their skirmish line at 7 in the morning, driving in the enemys pickets, and make a demonstratio Page 142 142 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. B or(ler to prevent any more troops moving over the James to General Butlers front. General Wilcox will move out the road passing the Clements house redoubt with two brigades at the same time. I wish you to let the details on the redoubts continue their work, and such men as are not at work along the infantry line should be under arms and ready for any emergency. I would like, if possible, for you to have two good regiments ready to move to any part of the line or to General Wilicoxs support in case there should be any need. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PAIRKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS Aniwv OF THE POTOMAC, October 8, 1864. Brigadier-General GREGG, Commanding Cavalry: The cavalry on outpost duty north of the Biackwater should notify Major-General Hancock, commanding Second Corps, and the command- ing officer of the troops at Old Court-House (near Baileys Creek) of any serious movements of the enemy. General Hancocks headquarters are at the Deserted House, on the Norfolk road. A. A. HIJMPHHEYS Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS AnMY OF THE JAMES. October 8, 18641.35 p. in. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Washington, D. C.: Our success yesterday was a decided one, although the rebel papers claim a victory. They admit Gencr I Gregg killed and General Brat- ton wounded. General Gregg was in command of Fields (livision. The iRichmond Examiner of this morning contains an official dispatch from Gordonsville last night, which states that a Yankee cavalry force yesterday burnt the railroad bridge over the Ilapidan and made their escape. No movement on the Petersburg side. No more troops 11 ave been sent over from Lee. The movement of yesterday was made under his eye. All quiet to-day. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 8, 1864. Brigadier-General IRAWLINS, Chief of Staff: Please order all men of the One hundred and forty-second, One hun- dred and twelfth, and One hundred and sixty-ninth New York to 2ome up to me at once from the landing at City Point. There has been very unfair means used by officers from the Army of the Potomac in relation to these men. They have tampered with them, endeavoring to get them into regiments in the Army of the Potomac. Please order all me Page 143 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 143 for New York regiments not actually in the Army of the Potomac to report to me at Yarina and send them with transportation to that point. While we are here fighting I had a little rather the Army of the Potomac would not steal our men. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Miajor- General, Commanding. CITY PoINT, October 8, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. 111.) General BUTLER: I have seen General Rawlins. He will issue the order at once. GEO. A. KENSEL, Colonel and Chief of Staff. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. 2D BRIG-., 3D Div., 10TH A. C., No. 2. In the Field, October 8, 1864. In pursuance of Special Orders, No. 16, head quarters Third Division, the undersigned hereby assumes command of this brigade. The exist- ing staff -and regulations will remain unchanged. U. DOUBLEDAY, Colonel Forty-fifth U. S. Colored Troops. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. (Received 8.30 p. in.) General BUTLER: Deserters report that there is to be an attack to-morrow morning by troops under command of Long~treet. Deserters under way to you. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. (Received 9.40 p. in.) General BUTLER: The following dispatch has just been received from General Paine, commanding Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps: My pickets report that a force of cavalry, supposed to be about a regiment, passed up the opposite bank of the river toward their pontoon bridge between 4 an4 5 oclock this afternoon. C. J. PAINE, Brigadier-General. GODFREY WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, October 9, 1864. General MEADE: I am at City Point. U. S. GRANT. (Same to Major-Gene~al Butler. Page 144 144 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LLV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 9, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: Deserter from Fourteenth Tennessee, Archers brigade, Caine in last evening about dark. Was forwarded from the Fifth Army Corps. He states that he went out on picket yesterday morning, and toward evening he learned from some of his regiment that the brigade was nioving farther to the right. This was last evening. INoTE.The same information was given by deserter from Cookes brigade; that his brigade moved about one mile and a half to the right yesterday. The man from the Fourteenth Tennessee is stupid and uninformed. Was recently conscripted, and cannot locate his brigade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 9, 1864. Major-Ge,neral HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Two deserters from Wises brigade, ~ division, came into the lines of the Second Army Corps (General Gibbons lines) about 8 oclock last evening. From their statement ~ division is very correctly located. Their brigade (Wises) is on the right of the division, the left of the brigade at the Burnside mine, extending toward the right nearly to the Jerusalem plank road. Ransoms bri- gade is on the extreme left on the Appomattox, next Gracies, then Elliotts, the right of the latter at the Burnside mine. Informants say that the line is very thin, about a yard to a man, and only one line the entire distance. Mahones division joins their right, but they cannot locate the brigades. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. P. S.One of informants states that during the fight of last Friday on their right preparations for evacuation were being made. The two siege guns on the plank road (Jerusalem) were double charged and shotted, and then filled with mud and stones. They have since been cleared out. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 9, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: A deserter from the Twenty-seventh North Carolina, Cookes brigade, Heths division, came into General Griffins lines last evening. He states that he was informed by some of the pickets that the brigade had moved about one mile and a half to the right las Page 145 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 145 evening. Can give no further information about it, as he was on picket. Negro refugees report Hamptons cavalry near Burgess Mill, on the Boydton plank road, near Hatchers Run. Youngs, Chambliss, and Barringer~s brigades are encamped near the mill, with Hamptons headquarters at the mill. No infantry on Boydton plank road farther south than Dysons place, two miles above Burgess Mill. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 9, 1864. Colonel SHARPE, City Point: Deserters from the Forty-sixth Virginia, Wises brigade, report that all or part of Picketts division is south of the Appomattox. Have you any evidence Qf this ~ J. C. B[ABCOCKj. CITY POINT, October 9, 1864. Lien tenant DAVENPORT, General Butlers Stafl~: We got some information tending to show that Picketts division or a part of it is south of the Appomattox. Please telegraph me at head- quarters Army of the Potomac to-day, saying what you think of that and generally of the enemys position. SHARPE, Colonel. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 9, 1861. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of AS~tajJ: GENERAL: DQserters yesterday mentioned a rumor that all or l)art of Picketts division had moved to the south side of the Appomattox within the last two or three days. Not being able to locate Picketts troops Colonel Sharpe was requested to obtain all possible information concerning him. The following telegram from General Butler is alL that has been received: Colonel SHARPE: i~our information regarding Picketts division-I think correct. Four regiments. of each brigade left here day before yesterday and went to Petersbnrg. We have on.. onr front Hokes and Fields divisions and the local defense. More than fonr regi- ments of Picketts division may be sonth of the Appomattox, but I have no positive. information from the north side of the Appomattox to fix what is there. J. I. DAVENPORT, Lieu tenant and A cling A ide-de- Camp.. 10 R RVOL XLII. PT 111 Page 146 146 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. If there is any considerable force from Picketts division on the south side of the Appoinattox it must be in reserve of the forces operating on the enemys right. None of the deserters received to-day know anything about it. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD STATION, October 9, 18647.30 a. rn. Maj. B. F. FIShER: Infantry reported halted iii vicinity of lead-works in last report is not visible, and no indications as to their whereabouts. All quiet within our view. A. K. C[AIROTHERS], Sergeant. HALIFAX ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 9, 18646 p. rn. Captain DAVIS: No change in the enemy~s line on this front observed to-day. Small force of infantry seen in fort east of toll-gate on the Boydton plank road. A few wagons seen moving east and west on the Boydton plank road. C. G. AIKEN, Sergeant. SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAL STATlON, October 9, 18646 p.m. Captain DAVIS: No change in the enemys line on this front observed to-day. Smoke seen issuing from woods in rear of enemys works, near Boydton plank road, at a point about 15 degrees west by north. Few wagons seen moving in both directions past toll-gate on Boydton plank road. Smoke from an engine traced abont half a mile, moving toward Peters- burg, on line of South Side Railroad. SJI~EEPER, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 9, 18646 p.m. Major FISHER, Chief Signal Officer: Captain Tlmickstun and Sergeants Jordan, Holman, and Carothers report all quiet this p. m. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer Page 147 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 147 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 9, 1864. General WILLIAMS: No change in my line since last report. Two deserters from Wises brigade came in yesterday evening. They report no news. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 9, 1864. (Sent 10.40 a. in.) Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: General Crawford expects the right of his picket-line where it joins yours to be attacked. I notify you of this so that you may have yours looked out, for. A. A. HUMPHRJ~YS, ajor- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 9, 1864. General A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: General Mott reports to me that the opening between the pickets was not made by the right of General Crawfords pickets advancing, but by their movin off to the left. The pickets on his left can be advanced some distance and the connection kept perfect without any additional detail. He has been directed to advance accordingly. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 9, 18647.35 p. m. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: The major-general commanding directs that you send a small regi- ment to Battery 24 to-morrow to hold that part of the line between Fort Alexander Hays and Fort Howard. They will inclose themselves by throwing up a parapet in the rear. A section of two guns will be sent to the battery from the Fifth Corps. The Fifth Corps will occupy Bat- tery 23 similarly. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVIsION, SECOND CORPS, October 9, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjntant-General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to inform you that I have temporarily turned over the command of the division to Brig. Gen. H. De Tro- briand. Col. William H. Brewster, Seventy-third New York Volunteers, will be in command of the First Brigade (General De Trobriands). Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Breeet Major- General Page 148 148 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 9, 18647.40 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding F~fth Corps: The major-general commanding directs that you withdraw the bat- tery and garrison from Fort Davison to-morrow and send two pieces to Battery 24 and two pieces to Battery 25, amid that you send a small reg- iment to Battery 25 to hold that part of the line. The Second Corps will send a small regiment to Battery 24. The regiment you send to Battery 25 will inclose themselves by throwing np a parapet in the rear. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Mc0or- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 9, 18649.30 p. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: The line of the Second Corps is reported by one of my staff officers to be very light. As I deemed it best to strengthen my own line in its advanced position, and as it is intrenched, I feel great anxiety lest the enemy, finding the line of the Second Corps at this point to be weak, may break through and get in my rear. It is very desirable to hold on to the line I have established. It is near to the enemys line and in a position from which his movement can be watched. The enemy will, undoubtedJy, make an effort to drive us from it. Respectfully, ~ ~. cT~m, Brigadier- aeneral, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 9, 1864. Col. E. L. DANA, Commanding 143d Pennsylvania Volnuteers: COLONEL: The general commanding the corps directs me to express to you his satisfaction with the performance of your duties yesterday as commander of the line of skirmishers of the corps. Your dnties were iinportant and am-duous and of a highly responsible character, all of which you performed with credit to yourself and the command. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjntant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 9, 18649.30 a. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I have the honor to report all quiet along my lines during the iiight. The advanced picket-line was taken up last evening and is being read justed and strengthened this morning. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 149 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 149 GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. 2D BRIG., 1ST Div., 9TH A. C., No. 24, B. October .9, 1864. The general commanding desires in this manner to express his grati- fication at the uniformly good conduct of the Twenty-fourth New York Cavalry during the operations in which they have taken part under his command, and to return his thanks for the faithful and effective man- ncr in which both officers and men have discharged their duty. Required to serve in a capacity different from that in which they entered the service, they have displayed soldierly qualities of the high- est order. Their example is worthy of emulation and their patriotism to be admired. Whatever disappointment they may have felt, no act of theirs has exhibited any unwillingness to do the duties required of them, and their long roll of wouftded and slain attests the faithfulness with which these have been performed. Being now about to enter the arm of the service to which they properly belong, the general expresses the hope that the same cool courage and faithfulness in the discharge of duty will characterize them, and that in the future their service may be as effective as it has been in the past. By command of Brigadier-General Hartranft: THOS. MATHEWS, Gaptain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DivIsioN, CAVALRY CORPS, October 9, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army- of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to report all quiet on the cavalry picket- line. A scouting party yesterday went a mile below Fort Powhatan and only discovered three of the enemy in that section. Negroes report that a Captain Brown has been scouting that country with a company of rebel cavalry since the cattle raid. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MCM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Comdg. Second Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 9, 1864. Brigadier-General GREGG, Commanding Cavalry: General Parkes picket-line is advanced and the cavalry picket-line on your right should be adjusted accordingly. I presume it has already been done. A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIvISIoN, CAVALRY CORPS, October 9, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPITREYS, - Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I gave orders last evening that the cavalry picket-line on the left should be arranged with reference to any change in General Parkes line. A staff officer went over early this morning to see to it. Yours, respectfully, D. MCM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Comdg. Second Division Page 150 150 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS, October 9, 18647.10 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I am glad to hear of your safe return.* All quiet along my lines. I got seventy-five deserters yesterday; shall have about the same num- ber by the morning; have twenty odd now. I am sorry to say Birney is so sick with dysentery that I must let him go home or lose him. Shall I have the pleasure of seeing you in the morning ~ BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 282. ) In the Field, October 9, 1864. * * * * * * * VI. Brig. Gen. J. B. Carr, U. S. Volunteers, is here by relieved from duty with the Eighteenth Army Corps, and will assume command of all the troops at Forts Powhatan and Pocahontas and Harrisons Land- ing, thereby relieving Brig. Gen. Gilinan Marston. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH~ Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 9, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: Please express to the general my appreciation of his kindness in the matter of sending inc honie. My fortifications to Four-Mile Church are almost complete. General Birney is opening short and several roads to the rear, and I have explained to General Terry my plan of several roads through the woods, commencing from extreme left to extreme [right], and narrow as salient was approached. If General Kautz will make a good strong corduroy road, wide and ample, from Doctor Johnsons house to my right flank he could always withdraw. I regard the position as perfectly defensible. D. B. BIRKEY, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIRST Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 134. Before Richmond, Va., October 9, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. In pursuance of instructions from the major-general commanding the corps, the One hundredth New York Volunteers will immediately proceed to Deep Bottom and report to Col. A. A. Rand, Fourth Massa- chusetts Cavalry, commanding that post, relieving the One hundred * See Grant to Meacle (same to Butler), p. 143 Page 151 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 151 and ninety-ninth Pennsylvaiiina Volunteers, which will, upon being relieved, march to the front without delay, and report for duty to Col. F. B. Pond, Sixty-second Ohio Volunteers, coinmmding First Brigadc. * * * * * * * By order of Bvt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: A. TELPY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant eneral. HEAIQUARTERS, October 9, 18645.35 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL: The enemy had some cavalry come over last night. May this not be a prelude to attempting to break through on the left? We have 1 OO() l)eeves there as a temptation, to say nothing of a major-general and his staff. Will you look to that a little, as a deserter from the Virginia says that he came through from the grave-yard directly into your redoubt and was not challenged. BENJ. F. BUTLER, iifajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EI~HTEENTII ARMY CORPS, October 9, 1864. (Received 6.3& p. in.) General BUTLER: I have a staff officer on Paines picket-line every morning at 4 oclock, who remains on until after sunrise. All the officers on this duty make the same charge you do against Paines pickets. I have thereibre sent the dispatch to him with orders to teach his pickets their duty. As for the cavalry dash, I would be most anxious to have the rebels try, for I iieed some spare horses very much. I think I could get theni in that way. G. WEITZEL, Breret Miajor- General. HEADQUNRTERS EIG-HTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 9~ 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I have no objection to your taking General Carr from this command. He told me you would assign him to a separate command outside of this corps if I am willing. I would rather, however, that you would relieve Marston and let me keep Carr. The two together will not work. (1. WEITZEL, Th eret Major- General. CITY POINT, VA October 10, 18641.30 p. m. Hon. EDWIN TVI. STANTON, Secretary of War: Our entire loss in the enemy~s attack on our lines on Friday, the 7th instant, does not exceed 300 in 1 illed, wounded, and missing. Th Page 152 152 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. enemys loss is estimated by General Butler at 1,000. The Richmond Whig of the 8th, speaking of the attack, has the following: The gallant General Gregg, commanding a Texan brigade, fell in the advance. Among other casualties we have to report General Bratton, of South Carolina, badly wounded; Colonel Haskell, Seventh South Carolina Infantry [Cavalry], severely wounded in face, and Major Haskell, of the South Carolina artillery, also wounded. Rumor stated that General Gary had been killed. Since Friday there has been no fighting whatever. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. MARINA, October 10, 18641 p. m. (Received 3.45 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Washington, .D. C.: I find our losses the other day [7th] were much less. than first reported. Four hundred will cover onr entire loss iii killed, wounded, and cap- tured. The enemys loss was many more. About 150 were captured, and a great many dead fell iuto our hands. The loss of the eneiuy could not be less thau 1,000 or 1,200. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186412 in. (Sent 12.10 p. in.) Licut. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Nothing of importance occurred on the lines yesterday and last night. There was occasional picket-firing, and during the night a few dis- charges of artillery in the vicinity of the Jerusalem plank road. No indicatiomis of movements by the enemy reported either by deserters or signal officers. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROYOST-MARSHAL.GENERAL, October 10, 1864. Major-General Hu PHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Contrabands that left Petersburg last evening came into General Miles lines this a. m. They came down the bank of the Appo- inattox on the Chesterfield side, and crossed the river at Covington. Some of them were bricklayers and have been recently employed at the Government lead-works. They report no movement of troops since last Saturday, when there was a considerable movement to the enemys right. The greater portion of Lees army south of the Appo- mattox is concentrated on their right, the lines from the lead-works to the left, as far as the Appomattox, being very thin, abont three feet to a nian in simigle line. All hospitals, commissary depots, Government work and railroad shops have been transferred to IDanville; also time greater part of the rolling-stock of the Ricimmond and Petersburg Rail- road. Last week several locomotives were taken to pieces and sent t Page 153 CHAP. LIY.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 153 Danville, p~~obably broad-gauge engines. Work at tire lead foundry has been discontinued for the present. None of informants think Picketts division is on this side of the river. One of them is very positive on his point. Very resI)ectfuhly, your obedient servant JNO. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL T)EPARTMENT, October 10, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following detailed movements on the part of the enemy were observed to-day: A new camp of nine wall-tents was pitched in vicinity of lead-works. At 9.30 a. m. abont 1,000 infantry passed a point on lloydton plank road near toll-gate, going eastward. At 4 p. us. abont 1,200 infantry passed same point, going westward. At 5.10 about 1,000 infantry passed same point, going westward. The above reports were made by the officer with Fifth Corps. The 1)lank road station corroborates the above, estimating the last two bodies at 2,600, followed by twelve ambulances and three wagons. This latter station also reports that these troops first appeared in vicinity of the lead-works; also that at 4.40 p. in. about 1,000 infan- try came from the woods to the right of the large fort west of the Weldon railroad and moved toward our picket-line in vicinity of Weldon railroad. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal (bficer. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUAR~FERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 274. October 10, 1861. * * * * * * * 7. Maj. Septiin ua Carneross, assistant adjutant-general of volunteers, having reported to the major-general commanding, is assigned to tem- porary duty with the Second Army Corps and will report to Major-Geim- eral Hancock for further instructions. - -~ * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to request that application be made for Allens battery (H), First Rhode Island, now in camp near Washington, to be ordered to this army to relieve Browns battery (A and B), First Rhode Island, that the latter may be sent to Washington to be reor- ganized and recruited. I am informed by Maj. J. A. Tompkins, First IRhede lsland Artillery, now recruiting in Providence, that if these bat- teries were stationed in Washington lie believes they could be filled u Page 154 154 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. in a comparatively short time. The united batteries have one officer and seventy-nine meii present. If the change is made they can proba- bly be filled np and instructed in the course of the fall and winter. Respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General and Chief of Artillery. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to headqnarters Armies of the United States, with the request that the order asked for by General Hunt, chief of artillery, may be issued. GI~O. G. MEADE, Major- General, Coutmanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 10, 1864. General S. WILLIAMS: There is nothing new to report this morning. Five contrabands from Petersburg came in this morning. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186411.30 a. rn. Major-General HANCOCK: There was some artillery firing last night, apparently from Fort Davis. Have you had any report of it? GEO. G. MEADE. Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 10, 1864. General MEADE: The enemy tired a few shots, apparently at our picket-line,, to which we replied. The report did not get in until after the morning report had been made. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQITARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 10, 1864. General HUMPUREYS, Chief of Staff: In addition to my report of this a. m. I have to state that the picket- line of Motts division has been advanced to the front edge of the woods in front of Fort Alexander Hays, and that the line is now intrenclied and is considered strong. Only an open field is between the new hue and the enemys works. WINF1) S. HANCOCK, Major- General Page 155 On,. L1Y.1 COflESPdNDENOE, ETCtUNION. 155 Ha.WQUaTflS FIFTH AnY Coups, Octobir 10, 1864. Major-General HixcooK, Commanding Second Ooiys: GnnAL: Before the picket-line was advanced I picketed half way to Fort Alexander Hays. When the line was advanced on Saturday I had29omenfromtherihtbri e,whichwasincreasedto55O. Itis now reduced to 300. I do not know where the left of General Pierces brigade is exactly, but think I now picket half way between Forts Howard and Hays. Will ascertain in the morning, and, if I do not, will send the additional men for that purpose. I was on the line to-day and found the connection was perfect with your line, but your line is thinner than mine and is not intrenched. From our advanced line a full view of the enemys works can be obtained, and over a plain at least a mile in extent. I consider it very desirable to hold it under all circumstances. Truly, yours, ~. ~. CRAWFORD, Brigadier-GeneraL / GuxnAL- OuDns, HuiDQunnus boon flxY Coups, No. 87. 5 October 10,1864. Maj. Septimus Caincross, assistant aiijutant-peneral of volunteem having reported for duty at theseheadquarters, is hereby announced as assistant adjutant-general of the corps. By order of Major-General Hancock: H. H. BINGHAM, M*r, Judge-Advocate and Acting Aeeietant A4jvtant4MwtL HDQRS. AunLLnr BRIGADE, boon AnY Cosrq, October 10,1864. Maj. H. H. BmGHAx Acting Aeeistat A4jntant-Ge~seral, Secqnd Viny.: I have the honor to report that the enemy were observed yesterday working on the fort near the deep railroad cut. The batteries at Fort Morton opened on them occasionally, forcing them to cease. About 12 p. m.lastnightthe enemy liredafew shots fromtheir artillery at our picket-he, to which our battedee replied. No casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant. JXO; G. HAZARD, 3f#or, Commanding. (Copy to Capt John N. Craig, assistant ~jutankgeneral, artillery headquarters, Army of the Potomac.) Hn.DQuA~uTns boon An~ Corns, October 10,1864. Brigadier-General Dz TRODRIAND, Commanding Third Division: GuNnAL: The major-general commanding desires that you have the new picket-line of your division strengthened as much as possibl Page 156 15G OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. by digging rifle-pits and constructing abatis and making slashing where practicable. Particular care should be observed in strengthening that part running through the point of wood near the right of General Pierces line, as it seems probable that the enemy will be more likely to attack here than at any other point on the line, owing to the advantage they would derive from forming unseen in the point of woods referred to. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. II. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. [Indorsernent.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 10, 1864. Brigade commanders will, without delay, comply with the require- mnents of the above order. Tools will be furnished on application to these headquarters. By command of Brigadier-General De Trobriand: J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant A~jutamt- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 10, 1864. Licut. Col. J. W. WILSON, Field Officer Division Picket: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that the utmost vigi- laiice be exercised during the night, and especially about daybreak, by your pickets, as a column of the enemys infantry has been seen moving west upon the Boydton plank road this p. m. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. E. LA MOTTE, Lieutenant-Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 10, 18649.30 a. rn. Major-General IIUMPHREYS: All quiet along our lines. The redoubts, intrenchmeuts, and slash- ing are progressing well. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CoPps, October 1Q, 186411 p. m. (Received 11.30 p. in.) Colonel LOCKE: The left of my picket-line now rests on the Vaughan road below the redoubt on that road. In the morning I propose placing a regiment and also some guns in the redoubt between Vaughan road and Fort I)ushane,if you will please connect with my present left to-night. Will have the line relieved in the morning to the front of the redoubt we are to occupy. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 157 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 157 GENERAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPT. oi~ VA. AND 4. C., No. 124. OF THE JAMES, the PiUd, October 10, 1864. Bvt. Maj. Gen. Alfred H. Terry is hereby assigned to temporary duty accordiri g to his brevet rank, and will assume commaiid of the Tenth Army Corps during the absence of Major-General Birney, dis- abled by sickness. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 40. In the Field, Vct., October 10, 1864. 1. The undersigned hereby assumes conunand of this corps during the temporary absence of Major-General Birney. * * * * * * * ALFRED H. TERRY, Brevet ]Jfajor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIRST DIV., TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 31. Befire Richmond, Va., October 10, 1864. I. In pursuance of instructions from corps headquarters the under- signed hereby assumes command of this division. 2. First. Lient. Frederick A. Sawyer, Forty-seventh New York Volun- teers, assistant commissary of musters, is hereby announced as acting assistant adjutant-general and will be obeyed and respected acc5rd- ingly. A. AMES, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers. HATCHERS, October 10, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- Generat. COLONEL: But two deserters have been received -since the 4th instant. These report that Picketts division is in front, consisting of four brigades of Virginians and one brigade of Georgians; the latter on the Appomattox River. Deserters previous to the 4th reported that one regiment had been detached from each brigade for some other point. J~ H~ POTTER, Colonel, (Jontmanding~. HDQR$. FIRST BRI~DE, KAUTZ5 CAVALRY 1)IViSIO~, In the Field, October 10, 186t Maj. THEO. H. SCHENCK, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I have the honor to report all quiet on my picket-line during the past twenty-four hours. A corporal reports seeing signal lights i Page 158 158 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [ChAP. Liv. the direction of the Charles City road. Private Schermerhorn, Com- pany G, Third New York Cavalry, (leserted to the enemy yesterday, taking his horse but not his arms. He was not in possession of any intelligence which would be of any value to the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, IIOBT. M. WEST, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HEADQLTARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October ii, 186411.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRKNT: Nothing unusual has occurred on my lines during the past twenty- four hours beyond picket-firing and occasional interchange of artillery shots on the Jerusalem plank road. Deserters yesterday stated it was reported in their camps that Major-General Whiting~ with 10 000 men from North Carolina, was at Stony Creek. I have directed General Gregg to send a recoiinoiteril)g party in that direction to endeavor to ascertain something positive about this. GEO. G. MEAIJE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 11, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Deserters from the Tenth Alabama, Colonel Kings bri- gade (Wilcoxs old), caine into the hues of the Second Army Corps on the front of the Third Division about 10 oclock last night. They locate all of Mahones division as lying between the Jerusalem plank road and. Weldon railroad. Three brigades, posted from their right to left, as follows, Wrights, Finegans, and Wilcoxs old, hold the entire line from the lead-works to the Jerusalem plank road. The other two brigades of the division, Mahones old and Harris, are in reserve, caml)ed about a quarter of a mile to the rear of the trenches. There has been no movement in their division since night before last, when an attack was expected and Mahones old brigade re-enforced the division picket-line. Two conscript deserters from the Thirty-eighth North Carolina, Scales brigade, of Wilcoxs division, came into the lines of the Fifth Army Corps last night. They can give no informa- tion other than that their brigade lies in the trenches from the Weldon railroad, near the lead-works (where it joins Wrights (Georgia) bri- gade, of Mahones division), to Battery No. 45, about half a mile west of the railroad. The remainder of their division (or two brigades McGowan and Lane) is farther to the right, on the Boydton plank road. Contrabands coming in from Sussex report a considerable force at Weldon, but indefinite as to numbers or organization. About 300 infantry at Nottoway bridge, and a battalion of infantry and cavalry at Stony Creek Station, and a battery of artillery. Very respectfiilly, yon r obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK Page 159 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 159 IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 11, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following movemenfs by the enemy have been observed to-day: FRIENDS hOUSE STATION. At 4.45 p. m. a column of about 1,000 infantry passed into Petersburg from direc- tion of Cemetery Rill going to ward the Appomattox or in direction of Pocahontas. STATION NEAR PEGRAMS HOUSE. Horses and artillery in works near Jones house have been removed. A small camp near the Boydton plank road below the toll-gate has also disappeared. At 7.30 a. m. about 1,000 men, apparently a working party, moved westward on the Boydton plank road. At S a. m. about 130 infantry came from the direction of Petersburg and went into camp near the fort about three-qnarters of a mile west of toll-gate. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 13. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. - HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 11, 1864. General WILLIAMS: There has been no change in my line since last report. Twenty-nine contrabands and two deserters caine in from Petersburg last night. The enemy opened a few guns early last evening, to which we replied. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 11, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant-Genera~l, Second Corps: I have the honor to report that at about 6 p. m. yesterday the enemy opened fire from their mortar batteries in front of Fort Stedinan. They also fired a few rifle projectiles. This was replied to by onr mortars. The firing lasted about one hour. Last night a section of the Four- teenth Massachusetts Battery, 3-inch rifle, was moved out of fort or Battery 37 and into Battery 22. Very respectfully, .your obedient servant, JINO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. (Copy to Capt. Johu N. Craig, assistant adjutant-general, artillery headquarters, Army of the Potomac.) hEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 11, 1864. Maj. H. H. BINGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- Gen~ral, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I respectfully request that the following changes may be made in the garrisons of the inclosed works on the line of this division Page 160 160 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP LIV. Fifth New Hampshire Volunteers, Maj. J. E. Larkin, to be placed in Fort Stedman in place of Fifty-seventh and One hundred and twenty- fifth New York and One hundred and forty-eighth Pennsylvania; Eighty-first Pennsylvania, Capt. L. Mercer, in Battery No. 4,111 place of Second New York Artillery; Twenty-eighth Massachusetts Volun- teers, Major Fleming, in Battery No. 9,111 place of Eighty-eighth New York; Sixty-ninth I~ew York, Captain ,in place of Seventh New York Artillery, in Batteries Nos. 11 and 12; Sixty-fourth New York, Lieutenant-Colonel Glenny, in Fort Stedinan, in place of Fifty-third Pennsylvania; One hundred and eleventh New York, Captain Murdock, in Battery No. 13, in place of Sixty-ninth New York. These changes to be made by placing a number of men from the organizations named in the works equal to the number now in them. T request these changes as the regiments proposed to be placed in thc works are mainly coin- posed of substitutes who have recently joined, and thc frequency of desertions among this class of men renders it necessary that they be placed in positions where they can easily be watched and guarded. I also recommend this, that they may be more easily drilled and disci- plined than is possible in the trenches. The officers are men of expe- rience. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON A. MILES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 11, 1864. General HUMPHREYS: I have the honor to report that miothing unusual has transpired along my lines during the past twenty-Thur hours. Large details are at work on intrenchinents and slashing. We propose constructing a small redoubt on the road between 400 and 500 yards to the right of the Pegram house. Major Michler informed me it would be laid out this morning. JNO. G. PARKE, Miajor- General. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC October 11, 18G411.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. I). McM. GREGG, Commanding Cavalry: GENERAL: Deserters report that Major-C eneral Whiting, with a large infantry force from North Carolina, estimated at 10,000 men, is now at Stony Creek, and the commanding general desires to have a cavalry reconnaissance made in that direction as soon as practicable to see it any corroboration of this report can be obtained from citizens, contra- bands, or others. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 161 CHAr. LIVJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 161 HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRV CORPS, October 11, 1861. Cob C. II. SMITh, Corndg. Second Brigade, Second Cavalry Division: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you send a regi- ment of your brigade on a reconnaissance in the direction of Stony Creek Station. It has been reported by contrabands and others that Major-General Whiting, with a force of 10,000 rebel infantry, has arrived at Stony Creek, and the object of this reconnaissance is to get so close to the station that information may be had from citizens or negroes of the truth of this report. It is not known that there is any force of the enemy, save 150 cavalry, east of the Weld on railroad, and this cavalry is at a mill between Reams Station and the plank road. The regiment should start from here at 6 oclock, and should return before morning. To accomplish its object the regiment should move rapidly. Upon his return the commanding officer of the regiment will at once report in person to these headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. II. BIBBER, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 11, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: We have thirty-three deserters from the enemy this morningten, and a sergeant, from a Georgia battalioii, lately from Mattoax Station, on Richmond and Danville road, now in our front; two from the iron- clad Virginia, eighteen from local defense troops, and three negroes. BENJAMIN F. BUTLER, Major. General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, Before Richmond, October 11, 1861. SOLDIERS OF THE ARMY OF THE JAMES: The time has come when it is due to you that some word should be said of your deeds. in accordance with the plan committed to you by the lieutenant-gen- eral conimanding the armies, for the first time in the war, fully taking advantage of our facilities of steam marine transportation, you per- formed a march without parallel in the history of war. At sunset of the 4th of May you were threatening the enemys capital from West Point and the White House, within thirty miles on its eastern side. Within twenty-four hours, at sunset on the 5th of May, by a march of 130 miles, you transported 35,000 mentheir luggage, supplies, horses, wagons, and artillerywithin fifteen miles of the south side of Richmond with such celerity and secrecy that the enemy were wholly unprepared for your coming, and allowed you without opposition to seize the strongest natural position omt the continent, A. victory all tihe u~Qre valuable because bloodless! ii l~ RYOXA ~UI, 11 II Page 162 1(32 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. Seizing thu enemys communications between their capital and the south you held them till the 26th of May. Meanwhile your cavalry, under General August V. Kantz, cut the Weldon road below Petersburg twice over and destroyed a portion of the Danville railroad, while the colored cavalry, under Col. Robert M. West, joined you by a march from Williamsburg across the Chicka- hominy to Harrisons Landing. From the 12th to the 16th of May you moved on the enemys works around Fort Darling, holding him in check while your cavalry cut the Danville road, capturing his first line of works, repulsing with great slaughter his attack, which was intended for your destruction. Retiring at leisure to your position, you fortified it, repulsing three several attacks of the enemy, until you have made it strong eiiough to hold itself. Fortifying City Point, Fort Powhatan, Wilsons Wharf (Fort Poca- hontas), you secured your communications, and have practically moved Fortress Monroe as a base within fifteen miles of the rebel capital there to remain till that travels. Re-embarking after you had secured your position, with nearly your whole effective strength, under Ma.j. Gen. William F. Smith, you again appeared at White House within forty-eight hours after you received the order to march, participating at the memorable battle of Cold Har- bor \vith the Army of the Potomac, where the number and character of your gallant dead attest your bravery and conduct. Again returning in advance of that army on the 15th of June, under General Smith, the Eighteenth Corps captured the right of the line of defenses around Petersburg, an(l nine pieces of artillery, which lines you have since held for three months. On the 16th of June a portion of the Tenth Corps, under Brig. GeN. Alfred H. Terry, again threw itself upon the enemys communications between Richmond and Petersburg, and destroyed miles of the road, and holding it cut for days~ The Tenth Corps, on the 14th day of August, passing the James at Deep Bottom, under Maj. Gen. David B. Birney, by a series of bril- liant charges carried the enemys works near New Market, and, two days later, another line of works at Fussells Mill, defended by the best troops of Lees army, bringing back four guns and three battle- flags as trophies of their valor. Again crossing the James on the 29th of September, with both corps, with celerity, precision, secresy, and promptness of movements seldom equaled, with both corps in perfect co-operation, you assaulted and carried at the same momentthe Tenth Corps and the Third Division of the Eighteenth Corps, under General Birneythe enemys strong works with double lines of abatis at Spring Hill, near New Market, while the remaining divisions of the Eighteenth Corps, under M aj.Gen. Edward 0. C. Ord, carried by assault Battery Harrison, capturing twenty-two pieces of heavy ordnaiicethe strongest of the enemys works around Richmond. The army thus possessed itself of the outer line of the enemys works and advanced to the very gates of Richmond. So vital was your suc- cess at Battery Harrison that oii the 1st of October [September 30], under the eye of General Lee himself, muassing his best troops, the enemy made most determined assaults upon your lines to retake it and were driven back, with the loss of seven battle-flags and the almost annihilation of a brigade (Cliugmans). After a weeks preparation Page 163 CHAP. Liv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 163 massing all his veteran troops on your right flank, on the 7th of Octo- ber the enemy drove in the cavalry, with the loss of some pieces of horse artillery, but meeting the steady troops of the Tenth Corps were repulsed with slaughter, losing three commanders of brigades killed and wounded, and many field and line officers and men killed wounded and prisoners. Such is the glorious record of the Army of the Jamesnever beaten in a battle, never repulsed in an assault by a larger portion of its forces than a brigade. All these triumphs have not been achieved without many loved and honored dead. Why should we mourn their departure ~ Their names have passed into history emblazoned on the proud roll of their countrys patriot heroes. Yet we drop a fresh tear for the gallant General H. Burnhama devoted soldier leading his brigade to the crest of Battery Harrison, where he fell amid the cheers of the victorious charge. In his memory Battery Harrison will be officially designated Fort Buruham. Of the colored soldiers of the Third Divisions of the Eighteenth and Tenth Corps and the officers who led them, the general commanding desires to make special mention. In the charge on the enemys works by the colored division of the Eighteenth Corps at Spring Hill, New Marketbetter men were never better led, better officers never led better men. With hardly an excep- tion officers of colored troops have justified the care with which they have been selected. A few more such gallant charges and to command colored troops will be the post of honor in the American arn~ies. The colored soldiers by coolness, steadiness, and determined courage and dash have silenced every cavil of the doubters of their soldierly capac- ity. and drawn tokens of admiration from their enemies; have brought their late masters even to the consideration of the question whether they will not employ as soldiers the hitherto depised race. Be it so; this war is ended when a musket is in the hands of every ablebodied negro who wishes to use one. In the present movement, where all have deserved so well, it is almost invidious to name, yet justice requires special gallant acts noticed. Major-Generals Ord and Birney receive the thanks of the command- ing general for the prompt celerity of the movement of their corps, both in time and manner, there by securing thorough co-operation, although moving over different lines. Their active l)romptness cannot be too much commended as an example in other operations. To be able to move troops in exact time is a quality as scarce as it is valuable. General Ord received a severe wound while directing the occupation of a captured redoubt. Brigadier-General Stannard is particularly distinguished for his gal- lantry in leading his division in the assault antil he lost his arm. The commanding general takes pleasure in recommending General Stan- nard to l)romllotiou for meritorious services. First Licut. C. W. Cook, Twenty-first Connecticut, acting aide to Brigadier-General Stannard, has special mention for distinguished gal- lantiy and is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Connecti- cut for promotion. All commanders of divisions and brigades acquitted themselves to the satisfaction of the commanding general in the fight. The manner of the march of som~e of their columns can and will be improved Page 164 164 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAI~. LIV. EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS. FIRST DIVISION. In the First Brigade, Lieutenant-Colonel Jlaulston, commanding, re- ports that his whole command behaved in so creditable a manner that he has no individual instances of gallant conduct to report. & cond Brigade. Asst. Surg. J. G. Porteous, One hundred and eighteenth New York Volunteers, deserves the highest credit for his bravery and attention to duties, being the only surgeon in the brigade advancing with his regiment in the charging column. Lieut. Col. George F. Nichols, One hundred and eighteenth New York Volunteers, deserves honorable mention for the gallant maii- ner, with a small number of men, with which he captured two redoubts on the right of Fort Harrison while the main assault was being made, and also for his cool conduct of the skirmish line in the general assault. Lieutenant Campbell, One hundred and eighteenth New York, aide to Brigadier-General Burnham, carried an order to the assaulting col- umn when near the brow of the fort under a heavy firea most gallant act. Lieuts. N. J. Gibbs and H. J. Adams, of the same regiment, the first men in the redoubts, are commended for their presence of mind in turning the enemys guns to bear upon them. They are respectfully recommended to his excellency the Governor of New York for promo- tion. Corpl. Michael Finegan, One hundred and eighteenth New York, is reported for his cool and humorous courage in capturing a rebel, forc- ing him to stand on the parapet, face the enemy, and give three hearty cheers for the Union. Private Franklin Johndro , * One hundred and eighteenth New York, was especially conspicuous, capturing forty prisoners after the enemys assault of the 30th. He is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal for gallant conduct. Col. Michael T. Donohoe, Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers, has credit for the gallant manner in which he advanced his skirmish line from Aikens Landing, having his horse shot under him, and afterward being severely wounded. Private James Bradbury [James Brady],* Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers, is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal for gallantry in capturing a rebel stand of colors. William S. Simmons and Jacob Bishop, color-sergeants of the Eighth Connecticut Volunteers, are commended for planting their colors on the parapet of the fort among the earliest. Sergeants Bishop and Sim- mons are promoted to second lieutenants in the U. S. Colered Troops, With the approval of the President. Corpl. Nathan E. Hickock ,* Eighth Connecticut Volunteers, has honorable mention for his gallantry in capturing a rebel battle-flag, and is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. His colonel will see that he has his warrant as a sergeant. Chaplain Nathan Warduer, of the Ninety-sixth New York Volunteers, is specially comumended for charging with his regiment in the advanc- ing column, ready to administer the lasting consolations to the dying. ~Awar4ct1 ~ McdmZl of UQUOi Page 165 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 165 Sergt. Lester Archer, * of the Ninety-sixth New York, has honorable mention for his gallantry in placing the colors of his regiment on Bat- tery Harrison. There is a generous rivalry between the color bearers of the Eighth Connecticut and the Ninety-sixth New York as to which were the first in planting their colorsso nearly equal were they that it is difficult to say which were in advance. May that rivalry always continue. Capt. Enoch W. 0-oss, of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, is commended for leading the skirmish line and the capture of prisoners and battle-fiats after the enemys charge of the 30th, in which 18 com- missioned officers and 209 men were captured. Actg. Adjt. Walter P. Long, Twenty-first Connecticut Volunteers, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Connecticut for pro- motion for gallantly planting his colors among the first on the rebel fortifications. Corpl. F. Clarence Buck,* Company A, Twenty-first Connecticut (sharpshooter battalion), is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal for courage. Although wounded in the arm, he refused to leave the field until the engagement closed. Iii addition he will have his war- rant as sergeant. Third Brigade. Capt. Cecil Clay,* Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, has honor- able mention. his color bearer being shot, he planted his colors on the fortifications of Battery Harrison, and was severely wounded in the act. He is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Penn- sylvania for promotion. Sergt. Patterson T. Campbell, Company F, Fifty-eighth Pennsyl- vania, is noticed as capturing the first prisoner in the forta rebel cap- tain. He is promoted to a lientenancy in the colored troops. Sergt. Nathaniel A. McKowii,* Company B, Fifty-eighth Pennsyl- vania, advanced in front of our lines after the repulse of the enemy, capturing a rebel battle-flag under severe picket-fire. He is recom- mended to the Secretary of War for a medal for gallantry. Sergeant McKown is promoted for good conduct to a lieutenant in the Sixth U. S. Colored Troops. Corpl. Samuel Clapper, Company ID, One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania, is recommended for a medal for gallant services in bring- ing off the colors of the Ninety-second New Yorkits own color-sergeant being wonuded. Corpl. Charles Blucher, - Company H, One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania, planted the first national colors on the fortifications in the charge of September 29. He is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal for gallantry, and will have the warrant of a ser- geant. Corpl. William Granl,* Company I, One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania, first planted the colors of his State on the fortifications of the enemy. He is recommended for a medal for gallant conduct. Theodore Kramer, * Company G, One hundred and eia~hty-eighth Pennsylvania, took one of the first prisoners, a captain, in the charge of the 29th, and is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. Sergt. William E. Gibson, Company K, Sergt. John Flanagan, Coin- pany 1, and Sergt. Frank M. Hawley, Company B, One hundred and Awarded a Medal of Honor Page 166 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV~. eighty-eighth Pennsylvania, were conspicuous for humane daring in volunteering to bring oft the wounded under a heavy fire September 29. There are some who will carry wounded to the rear; these sergeants brought them from the front. Sergeants Gibson, Flanagan, and Haw- ley are promoted for good conduct and soldierly bearing to lieutenants in the U.S. Colored Troops. Private Joseph H. Shea, * Ninety-second New York, is recommended for a medal for like gallant conduct in bringing the wounded from the field under fire of the enemy after the retirement of the line. The First Division of the Eighteenth Army Corps and the One hun- died and fifty-eighth New York will be entitled to iuscribe Battery Harrison on their colors. The quartermaster will furnish a new stand of colors with inscription for each regimeut. SECOND DIVISION. Surg. George De Landre, One hundred and fifty-eighth New York, while under fire, worked faithfully day and night, dressing the wounds of those who required attention, without reference to corps. It is to be deplored that our regulations allow substantially no promotion to a sur- geon- but for a gallant man to do hi~ duty in such a manner is suffi- cient reward. Sergt. Armand P. Alleaume, Company A, One hundred and fifty- eighth New York for soldierly coolness in turning the captured guns upon the enemy, is promoted to captain of U. S. Colored Troops. Samuel Graham, color-sergeant One hundred and fifty-eighth New York, is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal for con- spicuous gallantry and bravery in the assault upon the second line of works, and is promoted as first lieutenant in the U. S. Colored Troops. Sergt. William Laing,* Company F, One hundred and fifty-eighth New York, conspicuous for being aumong the first to scale the parapet, is recommended for a medal. has since died of his wounds. His medal will be sent to his family. First Sergt. Thomas Meagher,* Company G, One hundred and fifty- eighth New York, who led a section of his men on tIme enemys works, receiving a wound while scaling the parapet, is recommended for a medal for his gallantry. Privates Schiller* and Grube, Company E, One hundred and fifty- eighth New York, are commended for advancing to the ditch of the enemys works, although obliged to fall back, being unsupported. Schiller and Grube are recommended for medals for gallant conduct. Corporal Murphy,* Company K, One hundred and fifty-eighth New York, distinguished himself by capturing a rebel battle-flag, for which service he received a twenty days fnrloagh amid ~25 from the command- ing general. Corporal Yanwinkle,* Privates Henry S. Wells* and Georie A. Buchanan,* One hundred and forty-eighth New York, are recommended to severally receive medals from the Secretary of War, for distinguished gallantry in takin9g positions in advance of the skirmish line, within short distance of the enemys gunners, driving the cannoneers from their guns. Private Buchanan has since died of his wounds. The medal will be sent to his family. Yanwinkle and Wells will receive warrants as sergeants. Augustine Flanagan ,~ sergeant Company A, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania, color bearer, conspicuous for bravery in charging on the enemys works * Awarde4 a Medal of Hollor Page 167 CHAP. tIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 1(37 on the 29th of September, rushing forward with his colors, waving them and calling upon his men to follow, until he fell severely wounded. He is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. Sergt. Hezekiah Hammer, Company K, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania, with great fearlessness rushed forward, seized the colors from the wounded color bearer, and brought them off the field, and is recom- mended for promotion another grade for his gallantry (being already a lieutenant) to His Excellency the Governor of Pennsylvania. Would that his whole regiment had emulated his example. ENGINEER CORPS. First Lieut. Peter S. Michie, of the U. S. Engineer Corps, acting chief engineer of the Army of the James, has most honorable mention for the zeal and energy of his services, unremitting and unwearied as well with the pontoon train as in the fortifications of the line. He is earnestly recommended to the President of the United States for bre- vets of captain and major. Capt. J. W. Lyon, Fourth Rhode Island, in command of the pontoon trains of the Army of the James, receives commendation for his energy, ability, and promptness in the construction of the pontoon bridges by which the army crossed the river. Capt. John L. Suess, First New York Engineers, has honorable men- tion for energy in prosecuting the work which enabled our forces to hold Fort Harrison. He has already lost an arm in the service and is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New York for pro- motion. Capt. hiram Farrand, First New York Engineers, for his energy and efficiency in constructing the line of intrenchments on the line of the Eigl4eenth Army Corpsreceiving a very severe wound in the dis- charge of his duty. He is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New York for promotion. The services of the officers and the men of the Engineer Corps, although not as conspicuous as those of some other troops, are quite as arduous, rel~uiring constancy, courage, and zeal, and are fully appreci- ated. ThIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. Charles J. Paine has received the thanks of Major-Gen. eral Birney for the condn~ct of his division while temporarily acting with the Tenth Corps in the action of the 29th of September, near New Market. Col. S. A. Duncan, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops, commanding Third Brigade, in addition to other gallant services in the field heretofore, fell wounded near the enemys works. He is recommended to the President for a brevet rank as brigadier-general. Col. A. G. Draper, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, commanded Second Brigade, carried his brigade in column of assault with fixed bayonets over the enemy~s works through a double line of abatis, after severe resistance. For incessant attention to duty and gallantry in action Colonel to as Draper is also recommended brevet rank brigadier- general. Lient. Col. G. W. Shartleff, Fifth U. S. Colored Troops, gallantly led his regiment in the assault of the 29th, although at the commencement of the charge was shot through the wrist and again wounded until h Page 168 1(38 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV received a third and probably mortal wound close to the eliemys works. lie has nobly earned his promotion and his commission as colonel of his regiment to date from the 29th of September su proval of the President. , bject to the ap First Lient. Edwin C. Gaskill, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, for distinguished gallantry in leading his men when shot through the arm, within twenty yards of the enemys works. He is promoted to a cap- tain. First Lieut. Richard F. Andrews, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, has honorable mention. Having been two months sick and relieved from duty he volunteered and charged with his command through the swamp where he received a wound. He is promoted to the rank of captain. First Lieut. James B. Backup, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, ex- cused from duty for lameness, from which he could walk but a short distance, volunteered and charged with his command through the swamp, and received a wound through the breast. He is promoted to a captain. Private James Gardiner, * Company I, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, rushed in advance of his brigade, shot at a rebel oflicer, who was on the parapet cheering his men, and then ran him through with his bayonet. He will have a sergeants warrant and a medal for gallant daring~. Capt. Phillip Weinmaun, Sixth U. S. Colored Troops, commanding division of sharpshooters, and in charge of the skirmish line, is pro- moted to major for excellent conduct in muanaging his line of assault on the 29th of September. Milton M. Holland,- sergeant-major, Fifth IJ. S. Colored Troops, com- manding Company C; James H. Bronson ,~ first sergeant, commanding Company ID; Robert Pinn,* first sergeant, commanding Company 1, wounded; Powhatan Beaty,* first sergeant, commandimmg Company G, Fifth U. S. Colored Troopsall these gallant colored soldiers were left in command, all their company officers being killed or wounded, and led them gallantly and meritoriously through the day. For these services they have most honorable mention, and the commanding general will cause a special medal to be struck iii honor of these gallant colored soldiers. Capt. Peter Schlick, Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops, was the first of his regiment to enter the rebel works in the assault of the 29th, and is promoted to major. Lieutenant Bancroft, Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops, has honor- able mention for daring and emmdurance. Being shot through the hip at the swamp, he crawled forward on his hands and knees, waving his sword and cheering his men to follow. Sergt. Maj. Martin Weisz, Thirty-eighth U. S Colored Troops, for courage, gallantry, and good conduct in the attack omi New Market, is promnotcd to a lieutenant. First Sergt. Edward IRatcliff,* Compammy C, Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops, thrown into command of his company by the death of the officer commanding, was the first enlisted man in the enerny~s works, leading hms coumpany with great gallantryfor which he has a medal. Private William H. Barnes,~ Company C, Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops, aniommg the very first to enter the rebel works, although himself previously wounded, has a medal for his gallantry. Awarded a Medal of honor Page 169 UHATh LIV.] COIS~RESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 169 Ser~,eant Harris,-* Company B, Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops, has a medal for gallant conduct iu the assault of the 29th instant. First Lieut. J. Murray bag, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops, althou~gli on the sick list, and suffering from the effects of fever, insisted on lead- ing his company, until he fell, wounded in two places, at the enemys line of abatis. He is promoted to captain. Alfred B. Hilton * color-sergeant, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops, the bearer of the national colors, wheu the color-sergeant with the regi- mental standard fell beside hint, seized the standard, and sti~uggled forward with both colors, until disabled by a severe wound at the ene- mys inner line of abatis, and when on the ground he showed that his thoughts were for the colors and not for himself, He has a special medal for gallantry, and will have his warrant as first sergeant. Christian A. Fleetwood, * sergeant-major, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops, when two color bearers had been shot down, seized the national colors and bore them nobly through the fight. He has a special medal for gallant conduct. Charles Veal, * color bearer Company ID, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops, after two bearers of the regimental color had been shot down, seized it close to the enemys works and bore it through the remainder of the action. He has a medal for gallantry, and will have the warrant of color-sergeant. Lient. N. 11. Edgerton, adjutant Sixth U. S. Colored Troops, when the color bearer was shot down, seized the colors and carried them for- ward, even after his own hand was pierced by a bullet which severed the flag-staff. He is promoted to the rank of captain. Corpl. Miles James, * Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, after having his arm so badly mutilated that immediate amputation was necessary, loaded and discharged his piece with one hand, and urged his men forward; this within thirty yards of the enemys works. He has a medal and a sergeants warrant. First Sergt. William Davis, Company E, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, has hoimorable mention and a medal for gallantry. Sergt. Samuel Gilchrist, Company K, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops, showed great bravery and gallantry in commanding his coin- pany after his officers were killed. He has a medal for gallantry. Alexander Kelly,* first sergeant Company F, Sixth U. S. Colored Troops, gallantly seized the colors, which had fallen near tIme enemys inner line of abatis, raised them, and rallied the men, at a time of con- fusion and a place of the greatest possible danger. He has a medal for his gallantry. Sergeant Elsbury, first sergeant Company G, Sixth U. S. Colored Troops, has a medal for bravery and remarkable coolness during the engagement of September 29, 1864. Corpl. William Williams, Company K, Sixth U. S. Colored Troops, has a medal for bravery and remarkable coolness during the engage- ment or September 29, 1864. Maj. J. B. Cook, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops, commanding his regiment as a skirmish line, behaved most gallantly himself and managed his men with marked ability in the assault on the enemys lines near New Market. In the attempt of the enemy to take Fort Harrison he nufortunately fell wounded through his utter neglect of personal safety. He is promoted to lieutenant-colonel. Capt. Robert Pollard, Second U. S. Colored Cavalry, acting as field officer and in charge of the skirmish line in the assault on New Market, Awarded a Medal of Honor Page 170 170 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. tIV. September 29, inspired his command l)y his great l)ersollal bravery, coolness, and ability, until he fell severely wounded near the enemys main line. He is promoted to major. First Lient. Henry Peterson, Second U. S. Colored Cavalry, is pro- moted to a captaincy for gallantry and ability in conducting his coin- pany at New Market on the 29th of September, and for meritorious conduct in field and camp. Sergt. George Honesty, Company I, Second Colored Cavalry; First Sergt. Isaac Harris, Company F; Sergt. Gilbert Harris, Company F; Sergt. Reuben Parker, Company F; First Sergt. Randolph Driver, Company I, have honorable mention for conspicuous bravery on the skirmish line in the assault on the enemys works September 29. Each has a medal. The regiments of this division having behaved with great gallantry in several actions, earning thereby the right to official notice, it is ordered that there be inscribed upon the colors of the First and Tenth U. S Colored Troops the name Wilsons Wharf, that being the place where they defeated the cavalry of Fitzhugh Lee. That the Second U. S. Colored Cavalry have inscribed the word Suffolk on their colors, for their conduct in the battle of March 9, near that place. That the First, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Twenty-second U. S. Col- ored Troops have the word Petersburg inscribed on their banners, for their gallantry in capturing the line of works and the enemys guns on the 15th of June, 1864, at that place. That the First, Fourth, Fif5h, Sixth, Twenty-second, Thirty-sixth, Thirty-seventh, Thirty-eighth U. S. Colored Troops, and the Second U. S. Colored Cavalry have the words New Market Heights inscribed upon their colors, for their gallantry in carrying the enemys works at that poiimt on the 29th of September. The quartermaster is directed to furnish a new stand of colors to each of these regiments, with the inscription ordered. TENTH Amwv Coups. FIRST DIvIsION. First Brigade. First Sergt. William Hedges, Company I, Sixty-second Ohio, is com- mended for cool and courageous conduct while in command of his com- l)a.ny on the reconnaissance toward Richmond September 29. He is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Ohio for promotion. First Sergt. John R. Murray, Company G, Sixty-second Ohio, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Ohio for promotion for good conduct, having long been in command of his company. & cond Brigade. Col. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, is recommended for brevet for his gallant and soldierly conduct since the campaign conumnenced, and for the skillful and able manner in which his brigade was led to the rebel works within two miles of Richmond on the 1st instant Page 171 (2LIAP. LIV.] CORRESPOND1~NCE, ETC.UNION. 171 First Sergt. William H. Haynes, Company G, Seventh Connecticut, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Connecticut for l)romOtion for marked ability and attention to his duties as acting lieu- tenant. First Sergt. Ben.jainin A. Hill, Company A, Seventh Connecticut, is honorably mentioned for gallantry on the skirmish line on the 29th of September in the reconnaissance on iRichinond. He is appointed a second lieutenant in the U. S. Colored Troops. Sergt. Lewis A. Cook, Company E, Seventh Connecticut, for gallantry on skirmish line an(1 zeal in performance of duty, is recommended for a niedal. First Lient. Jonathan H. Edgerly, Third New Hampshire, for gal- lantry in conducting the skirmish line on the 29th of September, as well as on the reconnaissance toward ~ichmond,is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New Hampshire for promotion. Sergt. Maj. George A. Gesner, Company K, Sixth Connecticut, is recommended for promotion to His Excellency the Governor of Connec- ticut for attention to his duties, and is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. First Lient. Ferdinand Davis, Seventh New Hampshire, and acting aide on Brigadier-General Hawleys staff is recommended for gal- lantry. Sergt. William Tilton,* Company C, Seventh New Hampshire, in coin- inand of pioneers, has special mention for gallantry, and is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. Sergt. Henry F. W. Little,* Company I), Seventh New Hampshire, for gallantry on the skirmish line on the reconnaissance toward Rich- mond, is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. 1-Ic is appointed first lieutenant in U. S. Colored Troops. Sergt. Frank Robey [George F. Robie],* Company D, Seventh New Hampshire, for gallantry on skirmish line, is recommended to the Sec- retary of War for a medal. Sergt. John A. Coburn, C oinpany H, Seventh New Hampshire, was in command of his company in the reconnaissance toward IRichmomid, and is recommended to His Excelleiicy the Governor of New Hampshire for promotion. Sergt. George P. Dow,* Company C, Seventh New Hampshire, was in command of his company in the reconnaissance toward Richmond and behaved with gallantry. He is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. Third Brigade. Col. F. A. Osborn, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, for gallant and men- torious services through the campaign, has been recommended by tIme commanding general for promotion. SECOND DIVISION. First Brigade. Corpi. Ebenezer Skelhie,* Conipany D, One hundred and twelfth New York, took the colors of his regiment when the color-sergeant fell, and carried them through the first charge. At the second charge, after all Awarded a Medal of Honor Page 172 172 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CITAP. LIV. the color guard were killed or wounded, he carried the colors to the enemys works, where he fell wounded. fle has a medal and is recom- mended to the President, because of his wounds, to promotion in the Veteran Reserve Corps. & eond Brigade. Col. N. M. Curtis, commanding Second Brigade, for his zealous and untiring efforts to make his brigade efficient, and for the manner in which he led it in action, is commended by his corps commander, and is recommended to the President for promotion by brevet. First Lieuts. John J. Fitzgibbon, Company B, and James Cox, Coin- pany C, Forty-seventh New York, have honorable mention for gallantry, in both assaults on the enemys works, and are recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New York for promotion. Corpl. William F. Noonan, Company F, Forty-seventh New York, when the color bearer was shot, seized the colors and bore them throngh the fight, for which act of courage and daring and meritorious conduct he is appointed second lieutenant in colored troops. First Sergt. John Curry, Company E, Forty-seventh New York, is promoted to first lieutenant in U. S. Colored Troops, for gallant behav- ior in~ the assault and rallying his men. First Sergt. George W. Boerekel, Company F, Forty-seventh New York, for gallantry and coolness in assault, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New York for promotion. First Sergt. Andrew Hamilton, Conipany H, Forty-seventh New York, for gallantry and coolness in the assault, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New York for promotion. Sergt. Richard Gosson,* Company K, Forty-seventh New York, fell dead while planting the colors of his regiment on tIme enemys works. He is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal, to be sent to his fanmily. First Lient. J. Wainwright, comman(ling Ninety-seventh Pennsyl- vania, has honorable mention for the gallant manner in which he con- ducted the regiment during the engagement. Second Lieut. William H. Eves, Company G, Ninety-seventh Penn- sylvania, behaved with especial gallantry Pm both assaults, and is recommended for promotion in his regiment to His Excellency the Govermior of Pennsylvania. Sergt. William H. Martin, Company A, Ninety-seventh Pennsyl- vania. commanded his company in both assaults, and led his men with bravery and admirable order in the assault September 29, for which he has most honorable mention, and is recommended to His Excellemmcy the Governor of Pennsylvania for promotion to first lieutenant. Corpl. David S. Harry, Company B, Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania, is mentioned for special gallantry in both assaults of the 29th of Septem- ber. He is appointed secommd lieutenant in U. S. Colored Troops. Private William McCarty, Company B, Ninety-seventh Pennsyl- vania, is honorably mentioned for special gallantry, bearing his colors in advance of his regimnemmt in the absence of the color-sergeant, is rec- omumended to the Secretary of War for a medal. First Lieut. A. Lippincott, Forty-eighth New York, has special men- tion for gallant conduct in both assaults, and is recommended for pro- motion in his regiment to His Excellency the Governor of New York. Awai-dedi a Medal of Jloiior Page 173 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 173 Color Sergt. Toni Dawson, Forty-eighth New York, for coolness and courage, is recommended for promotion to His Excellency the Governor of New York. Capt. J. M. McDonald, Company H, Forty-seventh New York, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of New York for promo- tion for the manner in which he conducted his regiment after taking command, the colonel being wounded. Lieut. Col. C. li. MacDonald, Forty-seventh New York, is commended for coolness and bravery in leading his command on the enemys works, and is recommended for promotion to His Excellency the Governor of New York. Lient. Col. J. S. Littell, of the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania, is recom- mended to His Excellency the Governor of Pennsylvania for promo- tion for gallantry and judgment in leading his command. Third Brigade. Capt. J~obert J. Gray, Ninth Maine, was especially conspicuous for gallantry, and receiveJ his death wound while gallantly leading his regiment to the charge on Battery Gilmer. Capt. Billings Brastow took command in the same charge after the death of Captain Gray, and was killed while in like gallant discharge of his duty. Capt. J. C. Beal then took command of the regiment, led it within thirty yards of Battery Gilnier, with great gallantry and courage. Lieut. George S. Colbath, Ninth Maine, is recommended to the Gov- ernor of Maine for promotion for leading his command in the same charge, although suffering from an open wound received at Petersburg, and being again severely wounded. Capt. B. N. Smith, One hundred and sixty-ninth New York, for dis- tinguished gallantry while in command of his regiment during the a ssault of the 29th of September, is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of ~ew York for promotion. Capt. J. H. Lawrence, commanding Thirteenth Indiauaq being wounded in the first assault, still remained in command until ordered to the rear, is mentioned for gallantry and good coudact, and recom- mended to his Excellency the Governor of Indiana fbr promotion. Lieut. S. C. F. Smith, Ninth Maine, who, not having recovered from a wound received August 19, 1864, yet remained with his company till ordered to the rear, for zeal and efficient courage has honorable men- tion, and is recommended to His Excellency the Governor of Maine for promotion. Private Julius B. Koenig, One hundred and fifteenth New York, orderly at brigade headquarters, who carried the brigade flag with extraordinary zealousness in the hottest parts of the action, is recom- mended to the Secretary of War for a medal for his gallantry. Lieut. Solomon J. Watson, Ninth Maine, received his death wound from gallant daring in the endeavor to get the colors of his regiment from the field. Color Sergt. C. L. F. Howe, Ninth Maine, conspicuous for daring, is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. Corpi. Z. Piche, Comp ny D, Ninth Maine, carried one of the flags for a long time after he was wo]lBdcd, is recommended to the Secre- tary of War for a meda Page 174 174 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. Private Thomas Beicher, * Company I, Ninth Maine, has honorable mention and will be made color-sergeant of his regiment. He took a guidon from the hands of Private Parker, who was mortally woun(led, and carried it nearer Battery Gilmer than any other man; is recoin- mended to the Secretary of War for a medal. Private B. E. Preble, Company B, Ninth Maine, who carried the flag, the color-sergeant being wonnded, is recommended to the Secretary of War for a medal. THIRD DIVISION. First Lient. Waldo B. Ryder, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops; First Lient. Joseph E. Lockwood, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops; First Lient. Sumner H. Warren, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops, are promoted to be captains, for meritorious conduct during their connection with the regiment. Second Lient. Aipheus K. Long, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops; Second Lient. Charles H. C. Brown, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops; Second Lieut. Russell Hall, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops, are promoted to first lieutenanfs, for meritorions services during their connection with the regiment. Lient. Col. Samnel C. Armstrong, Ninth U. S. Colored Troops, is pro- mot~d for gallant and meritorious services at Deep Bottom and Fussells Mill, on the 14th of Angnst, 1864, as colonel of the Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, vice Col. Loren Bnrritt, who has failed to be mustered on acconnt of physical disability. First Lient. Thomas Young, Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, is promoted to be captain, for meritorions services. Second Lient. William H. Brooks, Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, is promoted to first lienteflant. First Lieut. Haskell M. Phelps is promoted to be captain in the Niiith U. S. Colored Troops, for meritorious services during his connection with the regiment. Second Lieut. Edward E. Fairchild, Ninth U. S. Colored Troops, is promoted to first lieutenant for meritorions services during his connec- tion with the regiment. Second Lients. Edward Coe and John Bishop, Twenty-ninth [Con- necticut] Colored Volunteers, are appointed first lieutenants, for nni- form attention to dnty. First Sergt. Oscar ~Engleblom, Company G, Third New Hampshire, is appointed second lieutenant, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops, to fill a vacancy. Maj. George E. Wagner, Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, is specially mentioned for gallaiitry, and is appointed lieutenant-colonel vice Lieutenant-Colonel Armstrong, Ninth U. S. Colorcd Troops. Capt. Oscar E. Pratt, Seventh U. S. Colored Troops, has honorable mention for meritorious conduct, and is appointed major in the Eighth U. S. Colored Troops, vice Major Wagner, promoted. Capts. Julius A. Weiss, Thomas McCarty, First Lieuts. George 11. Sherman, David S. Mack, Second Lieuts. Sylvester Eler, J. Ferguson~ H. M. Spinney, of the Seventh U. S. Colored Troops, are all entitled to the highest praise and coinniendation for their gallantry and good con- duct in the assault on Fort Gilmer, for which they are not now pro- moted, being either killed or in the hands of the enemy. * Awarded a Medal of Honor Page 175 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175 The commanding general is quite conscious that in his endeavors to put on record the gallant deeds of the officers and soldiers of the Army of the James, he has almost of necessity, because of the imperfection of reports, omitted many deserving of mention; yet, as these gallant men will on other occasions equally distinguish themselves, they can then take their due ph ce in their countrys history. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, ~sststant A ~jntant- Generat. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 149. In the Field, Va., October 11, 1864. 1. Capt. Adrian Terry, assistant adjutant-general of volunteers, is relieved from duty with the First Division, and will report for duty as acting aide-de-camp to the brevet major-general commanding the corps. * * * * * * * By command of Brevet Major-General Terry: WM. P. SHREVE, First Lient., Second U. S. Sharpshooters. and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 11, 1864. Brigadier-General GRAHAM, Commanding Army Gnn-boats, Point of Rocks: Please send down one of your boats to the Northern Neck, opposite Smiths Neck Light; land there and seize some eight or ten of the most reputable citizens you can find and bring them to me. State that they are taken as hostages for J. IR. McDonald, captain of the light-ship, and six men who went on shore for water. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]Ifajor-General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, October 12, 1864. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Va.: The disposable recruits at Fort Columbus have been assigned to the Seventh Infantry with a view to that regiment being sent to the Army of the Potomac to relieve that one of the old regiments of infantry most in need of recruits. Should this meet with your approbation, please designate the regiment you wish returned. Please inform me. also, whether you wish it to await the arrival of the Seventh. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., October 12, 186412 m. (Received 2.05 p. in.) Major-General IIALLEcK, Washington: I will send a regiment of regulars immediately to take the place of the Seventh. Please order the latter here without waiting the arrival of one to relieve it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Geuerat Page 176 176 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CITY PoINT, VA., October 12,18642.30 p. m. Major-General HALLEUK, Washington: Seventy-five deserters from the enemy came into General Butlers lines, north of the James, on Sunday; thirty-five more yesterday and thirty-three to-day. This is in addition to what came in on other parts of the line, of which I have no report. There were other deserters each of these days. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, YA., October 12, 18649 p. m. (Received 1.40 p. m. 13th.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: The Seventeenth U. S. Infantry has been designated to relieve the Seventh in New York. This regiment will leave here to-morrow. U. S~ GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 186412 rn. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The enemy opened his batteries about 8 p. m. last evening on Han- cocks front, and was replied to by ours. The firing lasted for an hour. No casualties reported on our side. A deserter came into Hancocks lines last night and reported the completion of a mine 011 his front. Meas- ures had been taken to prepare for the reported mine and to detect it. Another deserter reported the relieving of Wises brigade, Johnsons division, by Harris brigade, Mahones division, hitherto in reserve. Gregg~ reconnaissance yesterday proceeded as far as the crossing of Rowanty Creek, within three miles of Stony Creek Depot. At Row- anty Creek the enemys infantry was found in such force as not to permit the farther advance of the reconnoitering party. Fourteen pris- oners, including one commissioned officer, were taken by this reconnais- sance. From them and citizens no information of any large body of the enemy at Stony Creek could be obtained. From refugees and coii- trabands from Sussex it is learned the enemy have at Stony Creek a regiment of infantry and a battery of artillery, with some cavalry. These people state that it was reported forces from North Carolina were concentrating at Weldon; numbers and organizations unknown. GEG. G. MEAI)E, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 12, 186410 p. m. - General NEADE: I understand that it has been discovered that the enemy have under- mined Fort Sedgwick. Do you not think it advisable to intrench in r~w of it ~nd let the enemy cxplode their mine and attack? U. S. GRAINT Page 177 CHAP, MV.] 177 CORRESPONDE~CE~ ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 1864il p. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: I have received no information of the enemy~5 having certainly undermined Fort Sedgwick. The only information in reference to the enemy~s mining operations was contained in a telegram from Major- General Hancock, the substance of which was transmitted in my report this a. in.. to the effect that a deserter said the enemy had completed a mine on his front. General Hancock said the deserter had been de- tained that he might identify the spot. An engineer officer was sent to take the necessary steps to meet the contingency. Since then I have heard nothing from General Hancock. Some time ago it was reported the enemy was mining nuder Fort Sedgwick. At that time a line was made in the rear and every preparation made to let the enemy blow it up. These still exist. At the time it was considered not likely, from the conformation of the ground, that a mine could be placed there, owing to the distance to be galleried. Since then our pickets have beeu con- siderably advanced, and we command all the ground in front for 200 yards, and I should think could readily detect the existence of a mine in that locality. I will, however, refer your dispatch to Major-General Hancock, with directions to make the preparations indicated. GEO. G. MEADE, ]JIajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 12, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: Two deserters from the Twenty-sixth Mississippi and Fifty-fifth North Carolina, of Davis brigade, Heths division, came into the Ninth Corps lines last evening. They are conscripts and can give no information. Two prisoners of war were taken on the Ninth Corps front last evening from the Forty-sixth North Carolina, Cookes brigade, Heths division. They state that their brigade is on the extreme right of their infantry line, but cannot locate it nearer than one mile aiid a half this side of the Boydton l)lank road and six miles from Petersburg. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 12, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: Fourteen prisoners ol war, including one commissioned officer, first lieutenant, have been forwarded from the Second Cavalry Division. Four of them are regularly detailed scouts belonging to General Butlers division of cavalry. They were taken near Proctors Cross-Roads. Eight of them are drivers arid guard of a wagon train (belonging to Chambliss cavalry brigade) that was going down in 12 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 178 178 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. Sussex County for potatoes. The commissioned officer is a first lieu- tenant of the Ninth Virginia infantry, Picketts division, and was returning from furlough. They gave no information. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 12, 1864. Major-General HUMPUREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following is the result of the observations made from the several signal stations to-day: A body of about 1,200 infantry appeared on the road in the vicinity of the fort near and west of the Weldon railroad. They moved about half a mile in a northwesterly direction and then turned westward into the woods, no doubt return- ing to camp from some duty along the lines. A small body of troops, perhaps 100, passed into the city from the vicinity of Cemetery Hill this p. m. The following intercepted message may be of some profit; it passed through the line ou north bank of the Appomattox: Colonel B.: I have established an observatory in front of General Stenarts brigade in the most commanding view I could find. I observed wagons constantly moving to Fort Har- rison. A large flock of beef cattle are grazing above Dutch Gap. A large nuniber of boats are moving np and down on the James River. From the rock at Drewry s house, I noticed this morning a large decrease in the tents in the woods to the left of open space to our left of Cobbs. No other change. S., (Same to A. B.) Commanding. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 276. 5 October 12, 1864. * * * * * * * 7. In compliance with instructions received from headquarters Armies of the United States, the Seventeenth Regiment U. S. Infantry will proceed, with as little delay as practicable, to the city of New York and report to the superintendent of the recrniting service at that place. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transporta- tion. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, A8sistant Adjutant- General Page 179 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 179 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 12, 18649 a. rn. General HLTMPHREYS, Chief of & aff: No Change has occurred in my lines since last report. The enemy are reported as having built a new work in front of No. 9. The artillery firing last night was inaugurated by the enemy, as it was the night before. A deserter from Fiiiegans brigade reports that a mine is about done under one of our works. From his description I think he means Fort Stedinan. I understand listening galleries, & c., were run out from that front long since, but this deserter says be was detailed to work on this mine about three weeks ago and the gallery was then 260 yards long. Yesterday, he says, he saw a workman from there who said it was about ready. I have retained the man until I can send him down on the line, as he says he has located the place in his mind by certain landmarks. WINFI) S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 186411 p. m. Major-General HANCOCK: I forward you a dispatch just received.* I have informed Lieutenant General Grant I have no information of any mining at Fort Sedgwick. Your telegram upon the subject said the deserter had been detained to identify the locality, since which nothing has been received at these headquarters. If it is the case that Fort Sedgwick is the locality indi- cated I would state that some time ago, when a similar report was made, Major-General Warren prepared a second line in rear, to be held in the event of an explosion. Listening galleries were also sunk in different directions. At that time it was considered the distance the enemy wonld have to run their main gallery rendered the existence of a mine there improbabte. Now our picket-line is so much farther advanced there should be no difficulty in detecting a mine, if one exists. 1 have ordered Major Michler to run a gallery in front of Fort Sedgwick its whole length. You will please to have the line iii rear arranged for occupation, and make such preparations in conformity with the wishes of the lieutenant-general commanding as are best suited to meet the emergency anticipated. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. ~SPEC1AL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Deserted House, before Petersburg, Twa., No. 238. ) October 12, 1864. * * * * * 4. Col. G. N. Macy, Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers, First Bri- gade, Second Division, will report without delay to Brig. Gen. N. A. Miles, U. S. Volunteers, commanding First Division, for assignment to the command of a brigade. By order of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CAHNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. See Gr nt to Mea4e, 10 ~. in., p. 176 Page 180 180 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. IIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- G1enerai~ Second Corps: I have the honor to report that yesterday in front of Batteries Nos. 13 ahd 17 the working parties of the enemy were observed strengthening their second line. They were opened on whenever they showed them- selves. At about 7 p. m. the enemy opened a heavy fire front their mortar batteries in front of Fort Stedman. This was replied to by our mortars with great vigor, the fire Continuing about one hour. At 9 a. m. the enemy opened on our picket-line in front of Fort Davis with artillery. Our guns and mortars replied. The firing extended as far to the right as Fort Morton. This ceased in about thirty minutes. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. HAZARD, ]Jfajor, Co manding. (Copy to Capt. John N. Craig, assistant adjutant-general, artillery headquarters, Army of the Potomac.) HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Maj. A. F. BROOKER Commanding Siege Battery, Artillery Brigade, Second Corps: MAJOR: I wish you would put two more 8-inch mortars in Battery No. 20. The enemy are shelling that part of the line severely, and those now there do not seem to be able to prevent its continuance. I would like to see you to-night or to-morrow morning if you can conic up. Two men were killed in Fort Sedgwick by the enemys mortars last night. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, ]lfajor, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Brigadier-General DE TROBRIAND, U. S. Volunteers: GENERAL: The major-general commanding the corps leaves this morning to visit City Point, to return this evening, and requests that during his absence you assume command of the corps. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, Miajor and Assistant Adjutant- (Je~teral. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OP TIlE POTOMAC, October 12, 1861. (Received 10 a. in.) General CRAWFORD: The commanding general directs that you sen(l in the names of any officers of your counnand who fell in the recent engagement at Peebles farm, with a view to the naming of the new redoubts. 8. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- Ucueral. (Same to General Parke. Page 181 CHAP. LIY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. SPECIAL ORDERS,) lID Qns. SECOND Div., 5TH ARMY CORPS, No. 73. October 12, 1864. 1. The Tenth U. S. Infantry is relieve(l from duty in the First Bri- gade of this division and will report at these headquarters for duty as provost-guard. * * -* * * * * By command of Brigadier-General Ayres: C. E. LA MOTTE, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Brigadier-General BAXTER, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that the Nineteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteers be relieved at daylight to-morrow arid ordered to report to the headqnarters of the Second Army Corps. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 18649.30 a. rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Stafl~: All quiet along our lines. The enemy bnsy Strengthening their line. I send two prisoners Forty-sixth North Carolina, Cookes brigade, captured on the vedette line, and two deserters Fifty-fifth North Car- olina and Twenty-sixth Mississippi, Davis brigade. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: (For Secretary of War, Washington.) Col. John I. Curtin, Forty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, has heretofore been recommended, both for a brevet and promotion. No more deserving appointment could be made. He is an invaluable bri- gade commander. Unless promoted or brevetted he will lose the com- mand of his brigade by the return of a senior colonel, who has been absent from duty for twelve out of the last fifteen months, and is not as well fitted for the nOsition. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. [Indorsement.] Respectfully forwarded to the Secretary of War, with recommenda- tion that Colonel Curtin be promoted by brevet. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 182 182 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18G41O.4() a. m. (Sent 11.10 a. in.) General J. G. PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The firing last night was on General Hancocks front. It was corn- inenced by the opening of the enemys batteries and our batteries replied. The firing was without results. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- Generat. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 12, 18646.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that yesterday evening the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Maj. G. F. McCabe commanding, left this point on a reconnaissance toward Stony Creek. The regi- ment has just retiirned, having proceeded as far as the crossing of the Rowanty and three miles from Stony Creek. The crossing of the iRowanty was defended by the infantry, so that the regiment did not attempt a farther advance. Thirteen prisoners, including two comnmis- sioned officers, were captured; also two Government wagons destroyed, but the animals brought in. The commanding officer of the regiment could not ascertain from the citizens or negroes that the large infantry force reported had arrived at Stony Creek. All the information obtained would indicate that citizens were not aware of the arrival of General Whiting. Major McCabes [report] will be forwarded. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. McM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The following dispatch just received and forwarded for the infornia- tion of the lieutenant-general: hEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, October 12, 1864-9.30 a. m Major-General BUTLER, Commanding: GENERAL: The reports from the picket on the Darby road are, that the enemy is very busy fortifying on that road, near to our pickets. The officer on picket thinks they are building a fort at a point less than half a mile from the old line of intrench- ments. The fact that no deserters or refugees have come in yesterday or to-day on my line indicates that there is some truth in the report of the people living on the Charles City road that the enemy have a close l)icket-line between that road and the Long Bridge road. A few of the enemy showed themselves in front of Fussells Mill last night, but left without any other demonstration. The new road through the swamp will be finished to-day. Very respectfully, & e., AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier- General, Commanding. BEINJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General Page 183 CHAP. LIV.] COR1~ESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 183 CITY POINT, VA., October 12, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I think it advisable to send out a strong reconnaissance of infantry and cavalry to drive the enemy from the work they are doing on the Central road. Such a reconnaissance should not go far enough to en- danger their being cut off however. Weitzel should at the same tune hold as much force as he caim, ready to move to the support of the recon- noitering party if attacked by a superior force. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 18641.25 p. rn. (Received 2 p. in.) Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Va.: In compliance with your instructions in regard to the reconnaissance, orders have been issued which went out at 12.30 to-day, copies of which I will forward. We are delayed moving at once by the fact of a flag of truce being out. We shall be all ready to move if the flag of truce returns ih season. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]Iiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 18612.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have the honor to inclose for your information copies of orders sent to Major-Generals Terry and Weitzel preliminary to the movement you have directed. We are waiting return of flag of truce to move. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 18644 p. m. (Received 4.35 p. ni.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I am all ready to move, but the enemy 8till detain my flag on the picket-line in front of Battery Harrison. I suppose that having moved my troops into position is all I can do till flag returns. I am in doubt whether to move to-night; it is so late. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Jlfajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 18645 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: My flag is still out. I have sent for it. It is raining, and I submit to you whether any movement best be made till morning. Am all ready. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]lfajor- General. See Butler to Terry and Weitzel, 12.30 p. ni., pp. 186, 191 Page 184 184 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. ISV. CITY POINT, VA., October 12, 18645 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: Your dispatches received. Postpone the movement; it is now too late. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. OCTOBER 12, 18647 p. in. Lieutenant-General GRANT: There are at City Point about 300 unorganized recruits for the One hundred and forty-second New York. They have been some days at City Point; have been coaxed by those who (lesire to get them. The captains that have been commissioned have deserted them and cannot be found. They were ordered to the One hundred and forty-second Regiment by the War Department. They have elected officers and are a mob. If they can be sent to the regiment to which they belong they will be assigned to good companies with good officers, and will be serv- iceable in a fortnight. Otherwise, they are worse than useless for months. We have suffered so much from these new organizations ren- dering men useless that I trust where there is no organizationwe shall not wait for a mob to make one. Please order them to me and I will send for them to-morrow morning. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. OCTOBER 12, 18647.30 p. in. (Received 8 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: If you see no objection,Twill order that movement at daybreak to-morrow, so as to strike this enemys pickets by sunrise, giving the men their coffee before they start. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., Oct 12, 18648.10 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: I fully approve of your making the movement ordered for this after- noo.n early in the morning. U. S. GRANT, Lientenant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIcrnTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 4.55 p. m) General BUTLER: I have withdrawn my flag of truce. I communicated with the rebel pickets and sent your letter of introduction to General Ewell. No reply has been received yet, and I shall remain at Weitzels until I hear from them. G. A. KENSEL, Lieutenant- Colonel, d~c Page 185 CHAP. LIY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 185 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 186411.15 a. m. Brigadier-General PATRICK, Provost-Marshal- General, City Point, Va.: Please send me under guard, on board a boat, 150 of the most con- siderable of the prisoners captured by u~ in your hands, especially of the local defense, including privates ilenly and MeRay, for the pur- pose of being put to work iu Dutch Gap, in retaliation for our soldiers now at work in the rebel trenches near Fort Gihner. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. SPRING HILL, October 12, 186412 rn. Captain GLUM, Chief Signal Officer: Three passenger arid two freight ears, all empty, toward Petersburg. A regular train. G. F. YOUNG, Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. SPRING HILL, October 12, 18643 p. m. (Received 4 p. in.) Captain CLUM, Chief Signal Officer: A train of five passenger-cars, with passengers, toward Richmond. A regular train. G. F. YOUNG, Lieutenant and A cting Signal Officer. SPRING HILL, October 12, 18643.35 p. rn. (Received 4 p. in.) Captain GLUM: Five freight-cars, contents unknown, and three passenger-cars, with passengers, toward Richmond. A regular train. G. F. YOUNG, Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. DUTCH GAP, VA., October 12, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy opened on three separate occasions to-day, firing rapidly, and at sundown, as though anxious to improve their opportunity. Returned their fire promptly, and believe effectually. Moved the 100-pounder last night without trouble or accident. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 11.11. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery Page 186 t8~ OPERATIO T5 IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 186412.30 p. m. (Received 12.40 p. in.) Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Corps: You will take two divisions of your corps, preferably the First and Third, if their places on your line can be spared, and, in conjunction with General Kautzs cavalry, you will make a reconnaissance in force and drive away, if practicable, the enemy from the works they are now building on the Darbytown (or Central) road. General Weitzel has been ordered to support your line if necessary. Take care that your forces are not cut off. I presume you will find about 6,000 of the enemys veteran troopsEarly and Hokes divisionsin your front. You will push the enemy into his old line of fortifications, but not pursue far- ther unless you see such indications of giving way as will justify it, of which you will keep me advised. You will communicate this order to General Kautz, that he may co-operate with you. Make all your dis- positions as rapidly as possible, and inform me when you are ready to move and I will give the order. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I shall take the First and Third Divisions, but there is one regiment of the First Division, the One hundred and ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, which is so very raw that I think it had best be left behind; it would do more harm than good in the open field. ALP. II. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: The Second Division will not be sufficient to occupy more than its own place in the intrenchments and the place of the First Division. I think that General Weitzel should occupy the position to be vacated by the Third Division. If he is to do so, I will move Birney out as he moves in. If he will then have any additional force to spare I would suggest that it should be massed on the New Market road, so as to be ready to meet any movement on my left after I have moved out. ALP. II. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. [Indorsemerit.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OP THE JAMES, October 12, 18641.50 p. m. Forwarded to General Weitzel for his information, with directions to occupy the line left by Birney and to watch the New Market road. BENJ. F. BUTLER., Major- General, Commanding Page 187 UXIAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 187 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 18641.55 p. m. Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corjp8: General Weitzel is ordered to occupy the hue left by Birney. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 18642.10 p. m. (Received 2.20 p. in.) General BUTLER: If General Weitzel moves but one brigade from his own line, it should occupy the ground now held by Birney. If he moves another brigade I would like to have it at the right of the old intrenchments ready to move oat. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. [Indorsement.] Sent for information of Major-General Weitzel. Can you do both ~* BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 18642.30 p. m. (Received 2.40 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: I have arranged with General Kautz to move out and cover the right of the movement occupying the ground between the Darbytown and Charles City road, and trying to find the enemys left. I shall move Ames division out till its right rests on or just beyond the Darbytown road, and then move up parallel with the road. Birney I intend to put in at about Kells house to try to turn the enemys left. Ames division, reduced by his details, pickets, and the One hundred and ninety-ninth Pennsylvania and the One hundredth New York at Deep Bottom, will be about 3,100 strong. Birneys, reduced by his pickets and the absence of his strongest regiment at Deep Bottom, will be about 1,600 strong. I shall, therefore, need very much one of Weitzels brigades to go with me. I take three batteries. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 18643.10 p. m. Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: I forward General Weitzels dispatch* for your information. I do not see that he can do any more than he has done. Your field return of this morning shows, in the First Division a total of 4,488; the Third * See Weitzel to Butler, 2.45 p. in., p. 192 Page 188 188 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. Division, 2,970 men; making 7,458 men in these two divisions. Can it be that you have on picket the difference between 4,7 00 men and 7, 400~ Of course, the One hundredth New York, if at Deep Bottom, is not in your field return, nor Birneys regiment, if it is away. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTh ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 4.05 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: GENERAL: I was mistaken as to the One hundredth New York. It is not on the field return, but General Birneys regiment at Deep Bot- tom is on his field return and is about 800 strong. As I said before, I do not consider it prudent to attempt to use the One hundred and ninety-ninth Pennsylvania. I will do so if you desire that I should. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 18643.20 p. m. MajorGeneral TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: Four regiments of Pieketts division are up the New Market road in rear of local defenses as reserves. They have been there all the time. They are the only troops of Picketts on this line. If you find them on your right, you may be sure there is nobody to move on New Market. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]Jliajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS October 12, 18643.25 p. m. (Received 3.50 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: GENERAL: My troops are ready to move. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet ]Jliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY ~F THE JAMES, October 12, 18644 p. m. Major-General TERRY Commanding Tenth Army Corps: Dispatch announcing your readiness for movement received at 3.50 p. m. Flag is still on the picket-line. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. OCTOBER 12, 18644.35 p. in. Major-General TERRY: At 4 p. n-i. I sent you word th~.t my flag of truce was detained by enemy on the picket-line. I cannot move till that comes back. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 189 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 189 OCTOBER 12, 18645.15 p. m. Major-General TERRY: Postpone the movement; it is now too late. Hold all ready for further orders. Of course, your command will be informed that you are about to cross the James. Make your men as comfortable as Possible. Notify Kautz. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, In the Field, October 12, 1864. (Received 7.03 p. in.) Brigadier-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: You have Hokes and Fields divisions in your front, numbering about 4,500 men, and fonr regiments of Picketts division, numbering about 600 men, are in reserve iu front of Weitzels line. By direction of commanding general: JOHN I. DAVENPORT, Lieutenant, Aide-de-Cam~ and Assistant Provost-Marshal. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 10.40 p. in.) General BUTLER: The following has been received from the chief signal officer, Tenth Army Corps: STATION OF OBSERVATION, October 12, 1864. ACTING ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, TENTh ARMY CoRrS: I have this evening opened a station of observation ill a tree in front of the left of the Tenth Corps. Can see part of New Market road within the enemys lines. There are three field fortifications immediately in front of the statiou, itiounting in all four gunstwo on the work to the right, one on the center work, and one on the left-hand work; all Parrott guns, of either 20-pounder or 30-pounder caliber. Breast-works connect these forts, an(l from the last-mentioned one a double line of breast-works is visible, and on which strong fatigue parties are at work. Will give fuller details as soon as weather clears up. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, PAUL BRODIE, First Licat., Signal Corps, U. S. Army, Comdg. Signal Detachment, 10th Army Corps. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 1864. Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: You will move ~ and Birney~s divisions upon the enemy near the brick house on the Parbytown road with vigor, so as to posses Page 190 190 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. yourself of their line now being intrenched on that road. General Kantz will move with you, tnrnirig the enemys left if possible. Your moVement should be so early as to strike the enemy by sunrise. Gen- eral Weitzel will be notified of your movement, and will hold as far as the New Market road. You will observe the general directions as for the movement intended this afternoon. Keep me advised as often as possible of your movement. BEINJ. F. BUTLE1~, Major- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS October 12, 1864. GENERAL: The movement is suspended for the present, bitt be ready for further orders. Of course, the commands will be led to infer we are to cross the James. Make your men as comfortable as possible. Respectfully, yours, WM. P. SHItEVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. (To Generals Ames and Birney.) ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. The movement proposed for this p. m. will take place to-morrow morning. General Ames division will move out to and across the Darbytown road, forming in the open ground beyond, and moving np paralleL, or nearly so, with that road, will attack the enemy and cii deavor to find and turn the left df their intrenchments. General Birneys division will form on this side of the Darbytown road, prepared to advance at the same time with General Ames, his skirmishers on the same line with General Ames skirmishers. Colonel Curtis brigade will move out to the Kell house, forming line facing the enemy, his center at the honse. General Kautz proposes to move to the right of the Darbytown road, covering General Ames right, and he will endeavor to drive lit the enemy between that road and the Charles City road. He also proposes to send a comma up the Charles City road, dislodge the enemy there, and,if possible, take them in reverse down toward the Darbytown road. General Ames will take great care tiot to extend so far to the right as to leave a dangerous gap between his left and Gen- eral Birneys right. The batteries will report to General Kautz at Fonr-Mile Church, on the New Market road and will follow his column until they reach the IDarbytown road, when they will halt amid report to the division commanders to which they are assigned. The battery not assigned will report to the chief of artillery, who will be near the Johnson house on the last-named road. The troops will move at 4 a. m. promptly. Corps headquarters will at first be at the Johnson house. By command of Major-General Terry: WM. P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 191 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 191 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TENTH ARMY Cm~~s, Before Richmond, Va., October 12, 1864. Col. F. B. POND Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: I am directed by the general commanding to order that you will hold your command in readiness to move at any moment. The movement is suspended for the present. Also, make your men as comfortable as possible. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. A. SAWYER, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. (Similar instructions to Colonel Abbott, Second Brigade.) CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, in the Field, Va., October 12, 1864. Brigade commanders will have their commands in readiness for a movement, at an hours notice, across the James River or elsewhere. In the meantime baggage of the regiments will be collected and the men made as cQmfortable as circumstances will permit. By command of Brig. Gen. William Birney: M. BAiLEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL: I forward to you for your information orders sent to General Terry, also orders* from the lieutenant-general to me. You will take such measures as you may be able to support General Terrys movement. I will advise you of the moment he moves. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Co inmanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, - October 12, 18641 p. m. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: The lookout of General Marston reports that a force of the enemys troops, with three wagons, just moved to their rear; no artillery. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. [General WEITZEL :~ How large a force of the enemy ~ BENJ. F. BUTLER. * See Butler to Terry, 12.30 p. in., v. 186, and Grant to Butler, beginnin~I think it advisable, p. 183 Page 192 192 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 1.40 p. in.) General BUTLER: The private on the lookout said about a brigade, but I doubt this very much. I judge the strength by the wagons. U. WEITZEL, Brevet ililiajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 2 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: In what manner shall I support Terry l I have one brigade in readi- ness. Shall I relieve a part of his line or hold the brigade subject to his order~ G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. [Indorsement.j Sent for the information of General Terry. Which does he desireo* BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, [October] 12, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: I have investigated that report about the column of the enemy which marched to the rear. It left their line at 11 oclock. There were with it 300 mounted men and three wagons; no artillery. There was but one interval in the column. It moved straight to the rear, then halted a little to our left, and disappeared in the woods. I imagine it to be about two regiments, say, at furthest, 500 men. G. WEITZEL, Brevet ]lfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 18642.45 p. m. (Received 3.12 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: I have already ordered the disposition General Terry suggested, and you directed in your previous dispatches. General Marston, with his two brigades, will take up Birneys line to New Market road, and if he has anything left mass it there. One of General Heckmans brigades will take up the line vacated by Marstomi. This makes my lines over four miles and a half long, and this is just as much as I can do. Amiy change now would delay and confuse. U. WEITZEL, Brevet ]ih{jor- General. See Terry to Butler, 2.10 p. iu., p. 187 Page 193 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. LIV.] 193 HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 3.40 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: I desire to notify you that the movement of the troops is going on while the flag of truce still remains on the picket-line, not h aving been dismissed by the enemy. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 12, 1864. (Received 3.30 p. in.) General WEJTZEL: I am inclined to think that force moving to the rear to be the desert- ers and prisoners of the various regiments that were in the local defense. Our information is that they were to be taken out and sent to their regiments as soon as they could be spared. Has anything been heard of Kensel yet ~ If we do not move soon we cant to-night. BENJ. F. BUTLER,, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 3.40 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: Kensel is still on the enemys picket-line with flag. My troops were in motion an hour ago. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 12, 18643.55 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps: Terry is ready to move, but will not move until direction from me. The moment the flag of truce returns let me know. I suppose you refer to the movements of our troops. No offensive movements will be made until the flag returns. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Cornmanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 4.10 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: Shall I send for Kensel to return ~ My troops are all in position on. ~ew Market road. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General.. 13 R RYOL XLIX, PT II Page 194 194 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. OCTOBER 12, 18645 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL: Colonel Kensel has now been waiting four hours. Send messenger to him to return, leaving his papers in any officers hands to whom they may have been intrusted. 13ENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. OCTOBER 12, 18645.20 p. m. (Received 5.25 p. in.) Major-General WEITZEL: Any movement will be postponed till further orders. It is too late to-night. Let your troops know that it is thought to send Tenth Corps across the James. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. (Received 9.40 p. in.) General BUTLER: GENERAL: The following dispatch has just been received: My pickets repoi-t seeing this p. m. a good deal of dust across the river below Tort Darling, in the woods, and moving down to our left~ also a dozen or fifteen wagons across river moving toward the pontoon as if to cross to this side. C. J. PAINE, Brigadier-General, Coootanding Third Division. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. OCTOBER 12, 1864. Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding, & e.: Major-General Terry will move with two divisions, aided by Kautz, upon the enemy at the Darbytown road at daylight, so as to meet the enemy at sunrise. A vigilant watch should be kept of the enemy, and in case they move any forces to their left a deinoustration should be made from Battery Harrison. The New Market road will need obser- vation. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, - En lhe Field, Va., October 12, 1864. Brigadier-General MARSTON, Commanding First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding corps directs that you at once withdraw from your line either the Second or Third Brigade of your division, and hold it in reserve near your headquarters ready to sap Page 195 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195 port the movement of General Terry. Your remaining brigade is to occupy the whole line previously held by both brigades. I send you copies of dispatches for your information. - By direction of Brevet Major-General Weitzel: GEO. W. KELLEY, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 12, 1864. COMMANDING- OFFICER, Port Powhatan: I send Captain Mason to Fort Powhatan with about fifty cavalry to join the cavalry with you and clear out the country of such persons as are engaged in destroying the wires between you and Jamestown. Send your cavalry, under Captain Mason, with such information and guides as you have. The captain has received from me verbal instructions what to do. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEFENSES OF NORFOLK AND PORTSMOUTH, October 12, 1864. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I would respectfully invite the attention of the major-gen. eral commanding to the weak state of the defenses at this point, arising from the denuding of the lines of nearly all the troops. The only forces now here are two companies of the Second Massachusetts Artillery, six companies of the Thirteenth New York Artillery, and portions of the First U. S. Colored doing provost duty, the Eighth New York Battery and the Second U. S. Colored Artillery [Battery B], together with the Twentieth New York Cavalry. This last is exclusively occupied with outpost duty. The only force that I can rely upon to hold the intrenched line covering Portsmouth are the two companies of the Second Massa- chusetts Artillery and four companies of the Thirteenth New York. One company of this regiment occupies Fort ORorke, near Norfolk, and another Fort Riuggold. In case of attack on the main line a por- tion of these might be drawn to its defense, but not over 100 men at most, and perhaps four companies of cavalry from Deep Creek and Bowers Hill, which, including the batteries, would not give a total of more than 1,000 men. That line is nearly two miles and a half long. There are several works on it requiring to be strongly garrisoned. In a former communication addressed to the chief of staff I pointed out my objections to the line and the mode of defense planned for this place. The works were placed by the engineers before my arrival. They evi- dently calculated for having for the defense of the line 5 ,OOO men. I stated that I thought a mode of defense might be adopted requiring a less number of men. Existing circumstances, l~owever, and the present state of the line necessitates that the original plan be pursued. I would now respectfully represent that in consequence of the sending out of disloyal citizens the enemy may be induced to attempt a raid upon this place, and request that re-enforcements may be sent to me. I would request one light battery and two good regiments of infantry Page 196 196 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. say about 450 strong each. I think with these I can hold the place against any attempted raid. I would mention that since my former communication upon this subject the Twenty-first Connecticut, two light batteries, two companies of the Second Massachusetts, and two of the Thirteenth New York have been withdrawn from the defenses of this place. The major-general commanding has undoubtedly perceived crc this that the enemy, being cut off from the Valley of Virginia and being pressed for supplies, may be tempted to make an attack here. I do not anticipate any serious attempt except by way of Suffolk. I have endeavored to take all the precautions against it that the exceeding small forces at my disposal will admit of. After passing the old line there are, including the railroad, four roads by which the enemy may approach the second linethe new road, the Deep Creek, and the old county roads. The small redoubts have been arranged with reference to holding these roads, and all the forces I have will only garrison these works. I have deemed it my duty to candidly submit to the major- general commanding my views. Being in command of the whole, he can best judge of the proper disposition of his troops; still, it is possi- ble,in the multiform duties he is called upon to discharge, the deficiency of the force at this point may have escaped his attention. Having invited his attention to it I shall have discharged my duty. There is another point to which I would respectfully invite the attention of the major-general commanding. By the inclosed telegram you will find that the telegraph operator at Bowers Hill has been withdrawn from that station. This operator is sometimes stationed at Bowers Hill and sometimes at Bernards Mill, eighteen miles from this city. When- ever there is any reason to anticipate an attack he is at the latter post and can give me timely information of it. I presume the major-general commanding is aware of the importance of this station or lie would not have permnitte(l the operator here to have remained when he has been in want of his services at the front. An officer in Washington takes upon himself, without any consultation with me, to displace an important auxiliary to the defense of muy position. The order does not purport to originate with any authority higher than the individual sending it, and I am thus to all intents and purposes subject to the orders of my juniors. The offi~er does not simply relieve the operator, but discontinues the station and orders the machine to be sent to Old Point. The individual sending this order is not in a position to judge of the importance of the station to the defense of this place. Probably even if he were on the ground he would not possess either the knowl- edge or experience that would justify his giving an opinion. He cer- tainly cannot at Washington. As this order is a direct violation of General Orders, No. 129, from the Headquarters of the Army, of this year, and as I have no reason to suppose that the operator was with- drawn, either with time knowledge or consent of the major-general com- manding, I request that he may be sent back, and that measures may be taken to prevent the recurrence of such irregularities in the future. I would also call the attention of the commanding general to the im- portance of having a gun-boat placed at my disposal for patrolling the Nansemnond and other streams in this vicinity. Such a vessel would add materially to the means of defense amid could be made very useful. I am, colonel, your obedient servant, I. VOGDES, J3rijadier- (~ener I of Volunteer8 Page 197 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC,UNION. 197 [Inclosure No. 1.1 BOWERS HILL, October 6, 1864. Brigadier-General VOGDES, Commanding. GENERAL: I am in receipt of the following telegram: W. F. HOLLOWAY, WASHINGTON, October 6, 1864. Operator, Bowers IliU: Close your office soon as possible and relieve OBrien at Norfolk. Send your in- struments to Fort Monroe. T. T. ECKERT. [W. F. HOLLOWAY, Operator.] (Inclosure No. 2.] WASHINGTON, October 6, 1864. COMMANDING GENERAL NEAR NORFOLK: Owing to the great demand for operators at the front, I am compelled to close the office near Portsmouth. If necessary to be reopened it will be done when more men can be had. Very respectfully, THOS. t ECKERT, Major and A8sistant iS1ujperintendent. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EASTERN VIRGINIA, Norfolk, Va., October 13, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to the commanding general of the depart- merit. From information in my possession I attach great importance to the suggestions of General Yogdes in relation to the immediate necessity for a telegraph operator at Bowers Hill. G. F. SHEPLEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 186412 m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Since the receipt of your telegram of 10 p. m. yesterday Major-Gen- eral Hancock reports the deserter as locating Battery 21 to the east of~ Fort Sedgwiek as the objective point of the enemys mine. He states, however, that only about 100 yards of gallery had been excavated when lie left, beginning inside the enemys works. This leaves over 400 yards of gallery to be excavated, passing across a deep ravine coin- inanded by our pickets. The probabilities are that the works referred to by the deserter are some of the countermining precautions taken by the enemy, of which we have had numerous reports all along their lines ever since the explosion of the Burriside mine. General Hancock has, however, taken, and will take, all proper precautions, but he does not deem the contingency sufficiently probable to justify the with Page 198 198 OPERATIONS IN ~E. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. drawal of the garrison of Fort Sedgwick or Battery 21. He will, how- ever, prepare a second hue in rear of these works and construct listen- ing galleries and ti nches in their front, so as to be ready whenever it may be deemed essential to occupy the rear line. A deserter, who came into the Ninth Corps this a. in., reports a conversation between Generals ileth and Archer as to a proposed attack on the colored troops on our left and rear, in which General Ileth said the cavalry could do all that was proposed. We are fully prepared on this part of the line for any attack and should like to have it made. Nothing else of importance to report, except that the desertions to the enemy of newly arrived substitutes and recruits is very much on the increase. One was shot in the Second Corps a few days ago between the lines in the act of deserting. GEG. G. MEADE, ]Jliajor. General. CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 186410.30 a. in. Bvt. Maj. Gen. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: Lieutenant-General Grant directs nie to say that you may order a portion of the railroad construction force to return here at once. Sheridan does not think it expedient to have any more labor put on the Manassas Gap Railroad. If there be no further repairs necessary on the Orange and Alexandria road I see no reason why most of the mechanics and track-men of the railroad party shall not return here, where their services are required in erecting the hospitals and extend- ing the City Point road around to the vicinity of the South Side road. These works are important. I trust Major Wentz has received orders relative to putting up the hospital buildings. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General and Chief Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 13, 1864. Major-General HuMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Three deserters from the enemy, belonging to the First Tennessee, Forty-eighth North Carolina, and Fortieth Virginia, came into the lines of the Ninth Corps last evening. They are from Cookes and Archers brigades, of ileths division. No movements on their part of the line. Cookes brigade on the right of Heths division and extreme right of the infantry line. The following deserters caine into the lines of the Second Army Corps early this a. in.: One from the Six- tieth Alabama, Gracies brigade, who states that his brigade is lying between the Buruside mine and the City Point Railroadno niove- ments in Johnsons division; three from the Fifty-sixth and Forty. ninth North Carolina, Ransoms brigade, of Johnsons division, report their brigade lying between the City Point Railroad ~nd the Appomat- tox, on the left of Johnsons division. The following deserters came into our lines from Covington, across the Appomattox, about 1 this a. in.: Four men from the Forty-fifth Georgia, Thomas brigade, of Wilcox Page 199 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 199 division. They report their brigade lying from Pocahontas to Fort Clifton, on the Chesterfield side, forming the connection between John- sons and Picketts divisions. Stato that no movements have taken place of late in their vicinity. Do not think any of Picketts division have crossed to the south side of the Appomattox. Contrabands from Petersburg crossed this a. m. at Covington. They report that all but three of the heavy guns that have been in position from Fort Clifton to Petersburg have been sent to Richmond. They were moving some last Saturday. Only one gun left in Fort Clifton and only three in position on the north bank of the Appomattox between Fort Clifton and Pocahontas. From City Point we learn the force on the nortli side of the James to be unchangedFields and ilokes divisions, Johnsons old (Tennessee) brigade, and a regiment from each of Pieketts brigades, with the local troops. No troops have passed over the Vir- ginia Central either way since Itossers cavalry brigade went to Early. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 13, 1864. Major-General TIIJMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: John W. Timberlake, Fortieth Virginia, who came in last night abont 12 midnight, near the Peebles place, on being examined by me states: That whilst on duty last night between 9 and 10 p. m. he heard his officer, Lieutenant George, Fortieth Virginia, say that he understood that Archer asked Heth if he should take his (Archers) brigade around and attack the negro troops, which he had learned from a spy were posted in the rear. (Whereabouts in the rear Timberlake does not know.) Heth replied no; that infantry was not the proper force to send, but that cavalry was the best. Timberlake was sent out on vedette at this moment and did not hear further. The man is now here if you wish to examine him further. Mr. Babcock has gone down to City Point this morning to return in the afternoon. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. DALLAS, Captain and Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gem., in Charge of Office. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 13, 1864. Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Deserter from Third Georgia, Wrights brigade, Wilcoxs division, came into the lines of the Third Division, Fifth Army Corps, this p. m. He states that his colonel said Whitings division (20,000 strong) had arrived and was on the right of the lineenemys right. Has no further knowledge of the fact. This is the first intimation of the arrival of Whitings division. We have nothing to corroborate it. Informant is a man of ordinary intelligence and the rest of his informa Page 200 200 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAr Liv tion concerning the location of his brigade and division is, as we know it to be, correct. There was a rumor brought by a deserter some week or ten days since of the arrival of Whitings division, but was positively contradicted the next day by a well-informed deserter who had friends in the division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. CITY POINT, October 13, 1864. JOHN C. BABCO~K, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Troops on the north side are unchanged. They are Fields and Hokes divisions, John sous old (Tennessee) brigade, one regiment from each of Picketts brigades, and the local defense. MeEntee, who is here to remain, reports that no troops have passed over the Virginia Central either way since Rosser went to Early. Supplies to Early are sent by James River Canal, and the depot at Gordonsville has been removed toward Richmond. The transportation of the Central is said to be used in carrying goods from Richmond to Danville. Rumors of prep- aratiOns to abandon Richmond are common about Orange Court-House. General Lee has full powers in the absence of Mr. Davis. Men are allowed to go into Richmond, but nothing short of a woman can get out. SIIARPE, Colonel. IIEADQUARTKRS ARMY OF THE PoTomvo, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 13, 1864. Colonel SHARPE, City Point: Twelve deserters to-day, representing Cookes, Gracies, Ransoms, and Thomas brigades. No change in enemys position discovered. Contrabands rep& rt the moving of heavy guns from the forts on the Chesterfield side of the Appomattox, last Saturday, to Richmond. Only three guns from Fort Clifton to Petersburg, and only one in Fort Clifton. J. C. B[ABCOCK]. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 13, 1864. Captain DAVIS: One engine moved westward on South Side Railroad at 7.45 a. in. Infantry appear much more numerous than usual along works between fort 30 degrees east of north and lead-works. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. The above message was also sent to Captain Paine Page 201 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 201 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Major FISHER: Carothers and Jordan report no change this a. m. ilolman reports all quiet. P. A. TAYLOR, Gaptain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Major FISHER: Captain Thickstnn reports that quite an extensive work is in progress to the enemys right of the fort where the Whitworth gnu is mounted, which fired upon our cars in passing in front of the Avery house. P. A. TAYLOR, Signal Officer. HALIFAX ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 13, 18646 p. rn. Capt. CHARLES L. DAVIS: No change in enemys line on this front observed this day. Twenty- five wagons seen moving east and west on Boydton plank road this day. C. G. AIKEN, Sergeant. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 13, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that the signal stations along our front report all quiet to-day. The following message was inter- cepted: Colonel B.: Report of observations in front of Stenarts brigade as follows: Wagons were passing to and fro. One company of infantry drilling in rear of their lower works. One steamer went np the James with the dredging machine in tow, followed by a small steamer, and stopped at Dutch Gap. J. B., At C. (Same to A. B.) The station near the Friend house reports that the enemy are build- ing a new fort to our right of the city. T am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. STRYKER, Acting Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac Page 202 2O~ OPERATI& NS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAL STATION, October 13, 18646 p. m. Captain DAVIs: At 7 a. m. noticed the smoke from an engine moving back and forti on South Side Railroad; finally it moved off in direction from Peters burg. Traced the smoke from a point about 20 degrees west of norti to a point 25 degrees west of north. Observed a new camp of thc enemys in wood half a mile west of toll-gate on Boydton plank road Should think it the camp of an infantry brigade. Troops more numer ous near enemys fortifications; 15 degrees west of north from thh station noticed several small fatigue parties moving into the woods near that point. SLEEPER, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 13, 18646.30 p. rn. Captain DAVIS: At 10.30 a. m. about 200 infantry passed westward by fort 30 degrees east of north on Boydton plank road; 3.50 p. in. about 300 men, appar- eiitly convalescents, came westward by fort on Boydton plank road. Men were drilling near fort on Boydton plank road and near the lead. works. At 4.45 the enemy strengthened his picket along the front. J. L. PliAY, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CoRps, October 13, 1864. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Captain Thickstun reports a party of enemy at work this p. m. at point reported this a. m. Sergeant Jordan reports nothing new. Ser- geant Holinan, all quiet. Enemy sent a long message, but he was una- ble to take the numbers on account of high wind. Lieutenant Strong reports that enemy threw up earth last night in front of Fort McGil- very, and that it has the appearance of a fort under construction. Ser- geant Carothers reports all quiet. I sent you the new code by Doctor Howard. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 277. 5 October 13, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. Upon the reconiinendation of the comman(ling officer Second Army Corps, the following changes will be made in the garrisons of the inclosed works on the line of the First Division, Second Army Corps: Fifth New Hampshire Volunteers, Maj. J. E. Larkin, to be placed in Fort Stedman in place of Fifty-seventh and One hundred and twenty- fifth New York and One hundred and forty-eighth Pennsyl nia Vol- unteers; Eighty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, Capt. L. Mercer, in Bat- tery No. 4, in place of Second New York Artillery; Twenty-eight Page 203 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.IJNION. 203 Massachusetts Volunteers, Major Fleming, in Battery No. 9, in place of Eighty-eighth New York Volunteers; Sixty-ninth New York, Captain ,in place of Seventh New York Artillery in Batteries 11 and 12; Sixty-fourth New York Volunteers, in Fort Stedman, in place of Fifty- third Pennsylvania Volunteers One hundred and eleventh New York Volunteers, Captain Murdock, in Battery No. ,in place of Sixty-ninth New York. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WJLLIAMS~ Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, Va., October 13, 1864. Brig. Gen. H. W. BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade, City Point, Va.: GENERAL: Send immediately one of the regiments now scrving with you, and belonging to the army of General Butler, to report to Colonel Potter, commanding forces on Butlers old line, near Bermuda Hundred. The regiment will march with promptness to Broadway Landing, cross- ing the pontoon bridge at that place. Let the regiment sent be the strongest you have. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ENGINEER BRIGADE, City Point, Va., October 13, 18649.30 p. m. Col. C. W. DIVEN, Commanding Two hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers: In compliance with an order from General Grant you will immedi- ately move your regiment and report to Colonel Potter, commanding forces in Butlers old line near Bermuda Hundred. You will march with promptness to Broadway Landing, crossing the pontoon bridge at that place. There must be no delay in your hreakmng your camp. It is very desirable that you shoUld report to Colonel Potter as soon as possible. You will not wait to relieve the detachment you have on picket, but leave them to follow you after bein relieved by men from the Two hundred and fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. By order of Brig. Gen. H. W. Benham: CHANNING CLAPP, Assistant Adjutant- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 13, 1864. Major-General MEADE: William H. Kent, a reporter of the Tribune, whom you sent out of the department, wishes to come back and promises to behave well. I think he was not so much to blame as his informant. Have you any objection~ B. F. BUTLER, Major- General Page 204 204 ~OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 18645 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: W. II. Kent was excluded from the army by order of Lieutenant General Grant on the complaint of Major-General Hancock. iRecenti: an application to return from Mr. Kent was referred to me by Genera Grant and, after referring to Major-General 1-lancock, was returned t General Grant with General Hancocks indorsement and mine. I hav personally no objection to Mr. Kent or any other person being here wh will confine himself to facts and the truth. GEG. G. MEADE, lIjilajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18649 a. rn. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: There has been no change in my lines since last report. The de serter who reported the mining operations of the enemy fixed the plac as Battery 21. A well and galleries are now being constructed. Dc s~rters came in this morning from Ilansoms, G racies, and Thomas brigades. The latter is over the river. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18649 a. m. General MEADE: There has been nothing more discovered than was reported to yoi yesterday morning. The deserter fixed the direction of the gallery under Battery 21, but his statement was not considered sufficient tz remove the garrison. Evidently the enemy have a countermine undei the fort opposite, and the only gallery they are running is the listening gallery, its reported length, however, which was 150 yards three weeks ago, according to the deserter, and has been worked on since, led to the thought that they might propose mining. The distance is 54C yards. Lieutenant Benyaurd, who was out with the man, can give you full information. The wells in front of Fort Sedgwick are nearly ful of water, showing that none of them have been tapped. An offices entered one the other night, but heard no signs of work. Unless ther is something more developed you may not consider it worth while tc move the garrison. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQIJARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18649.10 a. m. ~General MEADE: When I returned last night about 9 oclock I learned that the de serter had located the eneniys gallery in front of Battery 21, and tha Page 205 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 205 Lieutenant Benyaurd liad working an engineer company there on well and gallery, and supposed you had been informed either through these headquarters or the engineers. I will have the second line prepared for occupation and am going up there to examine the ground. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. The attention of division commanders is called to the want of banquettes on some parts of the line, especially in some parts of the works. Wherever the troops cannot readily fire over the works now suitable arrangements to enable them to do so will at once be perfected. By order of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CARNCIROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, A3eeond Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that yest~rday afternoon the Third Vermont Battery relieved the Twenty-seventh New York Bat- tery in Fort Alexander Hays, the Twenty-seventh New York reporting to commanding officer Artillery Brigade, Muth Corps. At dark two additional Coehorn mortars were placed in Battery No. 20. Captain Woerners (Third New Jersey) battery withdrew from Battery 16 and relieved the Third Vermont Battery in Fort Alexander Hays. The Third Vermont went into position in Battery No. 16. Very little artil- lery firing during the past twenty-four hours. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Gommanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIRST DIV., SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 535. 5 October 13, 1864. 1. Col. George N. Macy, Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers, having reported to the brigadier-general commanding, in compliance with Special Orders, No. 258, current series, from headquarters Second Army Corps, is assigned to the command of the Consolidated Brigade of this division. * * * * * * * By order of Brigadier-General Miles: WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 206 206 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 13, 1864. Brig. Gen. R. IJE TROBRIAND, Com3mandimg Third Division, fecond Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general desires me to inform you that he returned to these headqnarters last evening and reassumed com- mand of the corps. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CAR CROSS, Major and Assistant Adiutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18G49.15 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that all was quiet in my front last night and through the day. A detail was at work yesterday making a heavy slashing in front of the picket-line on oar right in General Braggs front. This part of the line has been very much strengthened by being intrei~ched and by slashing the timber in front. The advancing of this portion of the line gives to ns an excellent view of the enemys works. Onr signal officer on Squirrel Level road reports that the enemy seem to have increased their picket force on that portioii of their line in his view. Two deserters from Sixty-fourth Georgia were received and sent up yesterday. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 18649.15 a. m. General S. W. CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: The commanding general desires that you will report at once by telegraph the names of any officers of the Fifth Corps who fell in the recent engagement near Peebles farm, as asked for in the telegram of yesterday. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 186412.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. S. W. CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: The leave of absence for seven days granted to Major-General War- ren has been extended five days. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant. General Page 207 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- qeneral: h~ compliance with your order, I have the honor to report the names of officers who were killed in the late battle at Peebles farm: Col. KorvaP E. Welch, Sixteenth Michigan Veteran Volunteers; Capt. J. H. Wheaton, First Michigan Veteran Volunteers; Capt. W. H. Keene, Twentieth Maine Volunteers~ First Lieut. Thomas D. lllrmston, Twelfth U. S. Infantry; Second Lieut. J. Conahey, One hundred and eighteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 13, 1864. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff GENERAL: -A deserter named Youngsen, from the Third Georgia, Wrights brigade, of Mahones division, caine into my lines this even- ing. He seems to be a man of more than ordinary intelligence; is quite different from the ordinary class of deserters, and if closely and care- fully questioned would probably [sic]. He confirms the report that Whiting is opposite our left with a large number of men. He denies that there is the despondency among the rebels that is represented. He says that the regiments are receiving re-enforcements daily; that his own company got fourteen men the other day. He reports, also, a rumor of importance that the rebels are considering the subject of call- ing out 250,000 slaves for their army, to be free in case of the success of their cause. General Anderson commands Beauregards troops. The man says that he had two sons in Pittsburg, and that he believes they are in our army. A negro soldier deserted to the enemy to-day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 18645 p. m. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Fifth Corps: luformation from deserters and others indicates an attempt on our left and rear by the enemys cavalry. Parke has been directed to occupy the redoubt to ~ie west of Fort Dushane. Tue officer in Fort Dushane should be notified to be vigilant and let his pickets connect with those thrown out from ~ work. You will also have to be prepared with the reserves of the corps to move to the rear in case of a persistent attack. (lEO. G. MEADE, ]JThjor- General, Commanding Page 208 208 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 13, 18646.45 p. rn. [Lieutenant-Colonel LOCKE:] COLONEL: It is not necessary to transmit the dispatch,* as it came from headquarters of the army. Please direct Generals Griffin, Ayres, and Baxter to hold a brigade each in readiness to move to the left at once upon the receipt of orders to that effect. Please direct General Baxter to inform the commanding officer of Fort Dushane of the con- dition of things, and direct him to be vigilant, and to connect with Parke by a strong picket-line, and cover the Halifax road. Please mark any dispatches for me to Captain Cowdrey in the corner of the envelope. Yours, respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. [General S. W. CRAWFORD:] GENERAL: Captain Davis, chief signal officer, reports the observa- tions of to-day, as follows: Increase of enemys picket force in front of the Boswell house, on the Chnrch road, and a considerable increase of the enemy near the large fort on the Boydton plank road at or near where it is crossed by Rohoick Creek. I will telegraph the above to headquarters Army of the Potomac. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjntant- General. (Forwarded to Brig. Gen. S. Williams at 7 p. in.) CIRCULAR, HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 142. October 13, 1864. Information having been received from headquarters Army of the Potomac, indicating that the enemys cavalry intend making an attempt on our left and rear, the following dispositions are ordered: Each divis- ion commander will hold a brigade in readiness to move to the left at once, upon the receipt of orders to that effect. Brigadier-General Baxter, commanding Third Division, will inform the commanding officer of Fort Dushane of this contemplated movement on the part of the enemy, and direct him to be vigilant and to connect with the troops of the Ninth Corps by a strong picket-line, and cover the Halifa~ road. By command of Brigadier-General Crawford, commanding corps: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 209 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. LIV.] 209 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISIoN, FIFTH CORPS, October 13, 1864. Colonel Sickel will hold his brigade in readiness to comply with the provisions of the foregoing circular. He will see that the men have the requisite amount of ammunition. By command of Brigadier-General Griffin: R. M. BHNTON, Lient., Aide-dc-Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 13, 1864. Col. F. WINTHROP. Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: information having been received from headquarters Army of the Potomac, indicating that the enemys cavalry intend making an attempt on our left and rear, the general commanding divis- ion directs that you hold as much of your brigade as you can spare from the works to move to the left at once upon the receipt of orders to that effect. In making this disposition you can calculate upon one regiment from the Third Brigade being sent to occupy the works on your line near the Vaughan road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. E. LA MOTTE, ~deutenant-Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH C ORPS~ October 13, 1864. Col. A. H. GRIMSHAW, Commanding Third Brigade: COLONEL: You will hold one of your largest regiments in readiness to move to the right and occupy the works on the Vaughan road on receipt of orders to that effect. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. E. LA MOTTE, Lieutenant- Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18649 a. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual has transpired along our lines iu the past twenty-four hours. The redoubts are all com- pleted, excepting twoone in the edge of the timber on the right of the Pegram house, and one directly west of Peebles house. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 186410.30 a. m. Major-General IIU1wPHREYS: I have just learned that the deserter from the Fortieth Virginia told one of our officers that Mahones division and the cavalry had moved 14 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 210 210 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. to their right for the purpose of attacking the negro troops. The deserter said nothing to me about this, and as he has been sent for- ward it would be well to question him further, and if there is anything in it General Gregg should be notified. JYG. G. PARKE, Major- General. [Itudorsement.] Referred to Mr. Babcock, who will examine particularly into this and report without delay. Return this telegram. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 186411.30 a. in. Major-General PARKE: I have given orders to have the deserter referred to by you particu- larly examined. I send you the result.* I attach no importance to this report, as we have quite recent intelligence from other deserters that Mahones division is in line from the Weldon railroad to the Jerusalem plank road. The deserter now says it was a brigade of Heths division that was to make the attack. It would be as well you should hurry the occupation and armament of the rear redoubts and get the troops into position to meet any attempt on the Dart of the enemy. GEG. G. MEAPE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 13 18 Major-General PARKE, 6410.20 r. m. Commanding Ninth Corps: Instruction was received this evening from General Meade that you would occupy the redoubt west of Fort Dushane with your troops, and that we were to connect with your pickets thrown out in front of your work. General Crawford supposed that the fort you would occupy would be the one next west of Fort iDushane. A staff officer of Gen- eral Baxter, who has .just come in, reports the fort west of the last men- tioned occupied with colored troops and pickets out in front of it. As General Baxters pickets will connect with yours, will you please state where the left of your line will rest ~ General Crawford having gone to his own headquarters, I have the honor to send this. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, 1ientenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjntant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 13, 186411 p. m. Colonel LOCKE: The left of my picket-line now rests on the Vaughan road below the redoubt on the road. In the morning I propose placing a regiment See Dallas to linmphr~y~, p. 199 Page 211 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 211 and also some guns in the redoubt between Yaughan road and Fort iDushane. If you will please connect with my present left to-night, will have the line replaced in the morning to the front of the redoubt we are to occupy. ~. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 186411.30 p. m. Major-General PARKE: I have the honor to state that General Baxter will connect with the left of your line, as you propose. He has sent out a staff officer for that purpose. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE. Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS, October 13, 1864. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Have you any news from the rear making this movement particu- larly urgent; or is it simply in accordance with general instructions from the major-general commanding~? JNO. G. PARKE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 186411.50 p. m. Major.General PARKE: We have received no additional news. The instructions of the major-general commanding were to be very vigilant, and to make the dispositions as to connections of pickets. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FiRST DIvISIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Lient. Col. WALTER C. NEWBERRY Commanding & cond Brigade: COLONEL: The general commanding directs me to say that you will hold your brigade in readiness to move at a moments notice if required. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. D. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 212 212 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 186412.20 p. m. Brig. Gen. D. MoM. GREGG, Commanding Cavalry: GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to notify you that a deserter who came in this a. m. reports he overheard a conver- sation between Generals ileth and Archer as to a contemplated attack on onr left and rear, in which ileth said the cavalry only would be employed. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, October 13, 1864. Brig. Gen. H. E. DAVIES, Commanding First Brigade, Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to inform you that intelligence has been received by him from army headquarters of in- tended movement of the enemys cavalry upon onr left and rear. The general desires that every preparation be made to receive an attack; that the pickets be instructed to be particularly vigilant and the reserves be held in readiness for prompt action. It must be particularly insisted upon that your commanders on picket shall promptly rep& rt any ad- vance of the enemy to the commander of the infantry behind them, those on the left to General Hancock. The forage and rations of regiments both in camp and on picket must be issued and not allowed to accumu- late. The regiments must be kept ready for immediate service and every measure be taken to prevent a surprise. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. II. BIBBElI, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Col. C. H. SMITH, Commanding Second Brigade, Second Division: COLONEL: The general commanding directs me to inform you that intelligence has been sent him from army headquarters to the effect that a movement is contemplated by the enemys cavalry on our left and rear. The general commanding directs that pickets be instructed to be particularly watchful and vigilant, and that the reserves be kept ready for prompt action. Let your regiments have the rations and forage issued and in condition to move out quickly. The commanders on picket must be instructed to report any advance of the enemy to the infantry commanders in their vicinitythose on the extreme right to General Parke, those in front of the Gurley house to General Warren and also to send word to your headquarters rapidly. The force picket- ing on the plank road must be particularly watchful, and if necessary strengthened. Let every precaution be taken to prevent a surprise on any portion of your line. Let one of your regiments be kept saddled to-night. 1 am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. H. BIBBEII, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 213 CHAP. LTV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 213 CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: The men will be sent to the regiment to which they were assigned by the War Department. There is no evidence that these men have been tampered with here. They certainly have not been by the provost officers in charge of them here. Please send an officer to t ke charge of them and condnct them to their regiment. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: JNO. A. ItAWLINS, Brigadier- General and Chief of $taff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field, October 13, 186412 m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Commanding U. ~. Armies, Headquarters City Point: I forward to you the inclosed dispatch* from General Terry as the result so far of his reconnaissance, which he begun this morning at daylight. Shall I order an attack on the works l They extend in a line from the house marked E. Cunningham on the map, near Darby- town road, about two miles from the intermediate line, round to the point near New Market road, marked Laurel Hill. BENJ. F. BUTLER, liliajor. General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I would not attack the enemy in his intrenchments. The reconnais- sance now serves to locate them for any future operation. To attack now we would lose more than the enemy and only gain ground which we are not prepared to hold, nor are we prepared to follow up any ad- vantage we might gain. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18641.20 p. m. Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Va.: Dispatch received. Orders have been sent to General Terry to re- connoiter the ground thoroughly and to return to his old position. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]Ifajor. General, Commanding. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 13, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The following is forwarded for the information of General Grant. I have not heard from Terry since I sent orders not [to] attack the works.t B. F. BUTLER, iVijajor- General. See Terry to Butler, 10.30 a. in., p. 218. See Weitzel to Butler, 1.25 p. in., p. 222 Page 214 214 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CITY POINT VA October 13 1864. , ., Major-General BUTLER: Has the expedition started out this morning retnrned ~ What was the result of their observations ~ The troops here have been assigned to General Benham to complete work laid to protect this place from raids and to enable a small force to hold it, in case it becomes necessary to move the greater part of the army. I would not like to reduce this force unless there is a special necessity for it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18647.25 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The expedition has returned. General Terry is now telegraphing me the results. I will send them as soon as received. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 13, 18648.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The enemy have re-enforced in front of my old line, now commanded by Colonel Potter, who thinks they may attack him; I do not. They have been reconnoitering this evening with a balloon. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: Have you artillery enough at Bermuda to defend it if the enemy should attack ~ I do not think such a thing likely, but rather~ judge their examination to be with a view to farther advance their force there to re-enforce north of the James. We want to be watchful at all points. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18649.15 p. in. (Received 9.20 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: I think we have artillery enough in Bermuda to defend it if they should attack. We have all the artillery necessary on the hue and one six-gun Napoleon battery for movable artillery. I do not believe in any intention of attack. A deserter I had from in front of our line there said they had orders to look out for an attack from us day before yesterday. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 215 CHAP. LIT.] 215 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: Please give me such information as you have of the result of General Terrys reconnaissance. Such wiki rumors were afloat about Yarina this evening that I feel much anxiety to know the facts. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18649.50 p. m. (Received 10.20 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: The operations to-day, as I learn them from General Terry, are as fol- lows: With two divisions aiid Kautzs cavalry he went up the Darby- town road; went along the enemys lines to the right for something like a mile, driving in the enemys pickets, with considerable loss to them. He then sent me a telegram, which I forwarded to you at 12 in. To that I returned an answer, Dispatch m9eceived; contents referred to General Grant. Will send orders, at 12.10. After receiving your orders at 1.30 I dispatched to him the following: I would not attack the enemy in their intrenchments. After carefully reconnoitering the enemy, find their position, look at all the roads, and retire at leisure. At 3 oclock I received from him that General Kautz had found a place in the line where there was apparently a gap, and Ames had gone in with a brigade before my orders were received; that he would retire as soon as that fact was settled. Ames was unsuccessful, owing to the enemys lines being retired, which gave the impression that there was a gap iii the line. The enemy then charged Ames and were repulsed handsomely. Terry then retired leisurely, followed only by a line of skirmishers for a short distance. Time losses in his corps, he says, dur- ing the day were between 300 and 400. The troops are all back in their camps and everything quiet. There is not the slightest cause for any anxiety. I had telegraphed for all partienlars from General Terry, but ascertained that, being very much tired, he was home abed. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 13, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Now that the enemys line is extended so far to our left, is there any objection to my sending to Bermuda one of the two regiments sent to Prince George Court-House? B. F. BUTLER, Major. General. CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I have ordered General Benham to send back one of the regiments brought from Bermuda. Please notify Colonel Potter that it will reach Bermuda between this and morning, and for him to designate where it shall go. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenctnt- General Page 216 216 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. MV. OCTOBER 13, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Colonel Potter is naturally, from his situation, a little nervous, and I have ordered General Weitzel to send over the Twelfth New Hampshire to him, Colonel Potters own regiment. BENJ. F. BUTLER lllaj or- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, October 13, 1864. Lieutenant DAVENPORT, General Butlers AS1taff: Johnsons division extends from the Appomattox to the Jerusalem plank road. It is all there except the Tennessee brigade; Mahones division from plank road to the lead-works, with two brigades, Weisi- gers and Harris in reserve; Scales brigade, from lead-works to the Squirrel Level road, and Lane and McGowan with all of Heths divis- ion on the Boydton plank road. Hampton~s cavalry encamped on the Boydton plank road near Burgess Mill. We should like to be assured of the certainty that all of Picketts except the four regiments can be located. SHARPE, Colonel. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18649.10 p. m. Colonel DODGE, Chief Quartermaster, Bermuda: Send the detachment of the New York Mounted Rifles to report to General Kautz. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. COBBS HILL, October 13, 18647.15 p. m. Captain CLUM, (Received 8.15 i~. in.) Chief signal Officer: The enemy have been up in a balloon making observations on our line. This in my immediate front. They were also signaling to parties~ below. G. F. YOUNG, Lieutenant and Acting AS~ignal Officer. GENERAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C.. No. 126. In ARMY OF THE JAMES, the Field, October 13, 1864. It being testified to the commanding general by a number of refu- gees and deserters from the enemy that from 100 to 150 soldiers of the United States, captured in arms by the Confederates on the lines near Chaffins BluTh have been taken from Libby Prison and otherwheres, and placed to labor on the intrenchmnents of the enemys lines in front of their troops, the commanding general on the 13th day of Octobe Page 217 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 217 notified the Confederate agent of exchange, Robert Ould, of the outrage being perpetrated upon his soldiers, and informed him that unless the practice was stopped retaliation in kind would be adopted by the Gov- ernment of the United States. Being assured by General Ewell, commanding Confederate forces on the north side of the James, that an answer to this communication, if any, would be sent by 11 a. m. to-day,, and it being now past 12 (noon) and no answer having been received, it is ordered that an equal num- ber of prisoners of war, preferably members of the Yirginia Reserves, by and under whose charge this outrage is being carried on, be set to work in the excavation at Dutch Gap and elsewhere along the trenches, as may hereafter seem best, in retaliation for this unjust treatment of the soldiers of the United States so kept at labor and service by the Confederate authorities. It being also testified to by the same witnesses that the rations served to the soldiers of the United States so at labor is one pound of flour and one-third of a pound of bacon daily, it is ordered that the same ration precisely be served to these Confederate prisoners s6 kept at work daily, and no other or different. It being further testified to that the time of labor of the soldiers of the United States so at work under the Confederates is ten hours each day, these-Confederate prisoners so kept at work will be made to work, and work faithfully, daily during the same period of time. This order will be read to the prisoners set to work the first time they are mustered for labor, in order that they may know why it is that they do not receive that kind and conrteous treatment they have heretofore from the United States as prisoners of war. Upon any attempt to escape, by any of these prisoners so kept at work, they will be instantly shot. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General. DUTCH GAP, VA., October 13, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding A3iege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy fired quite constantly during the night, but have appeared to be afraid to open to-day; at long intervals sending a few shells in rapid succession and then ceasing altogether. Am quite encouraged. Earnestly request to be placed in command of the new work on Coxs Hill with my whole company. The position is surely an excellent one for practice, and the men require a change. Shall be able to use the 100-pounder to-morrow. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18641 a. m. Major-General BUTLER: General Ames has just forwarded to me the following report from his division officer of the day. The only thing of any importance in it i Page 218 218 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. VJHAP. LIV. the statement in regard to wheels, which confirms a report which I have received from General William Birney that the noise of artillery or wagons moving to our right had been heard by one of his officers on the picket-line. I send this for what it may be worth and in order not to withhold any information which can possibly be of value: HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPs, October 13, 186412.15 a. rn. LIEUTENANT: In pnrsuance of instructions from General Ames if made a careful reconnaissance of the enemys movements from onr picket-line in front of the Kell house in the direction of the Darbytown road. I could hear the movement of wheels toward onr right. There seemed to be activity of the enemy in the same direction. Axes could be heard and pounding as if in the coustr~ction of fortifications. Within abont twenty miuntes two shots were fired within time enemys lines, apparently acci- dentally; immediately on the picket-line of time enemy all was quiet. It is my im- pression that forces of tlie enemy have been moved to the neighborhood of the Dar- bytown road from onr left. I am, lieutenant, very respectfnlly, & c., EDWARD CAMPBELL, Lient. Cot. Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Vols. and Division Officer of the Day. ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: GENERAL: The attack was delayed till 6.35 a. m. by the failure of General Kautz to get up in time. Ames has been quite smartly en- gaged; Birney less so. I get reports from C eneral Kautz and Col- ollel Spear that the enemy appear to be in force in cavalry and in- fantry on the Charles City road, the line facing the Darbytown road. Ames and Birney still advancing. Will report again soon. ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet Major. General. OCTOBER 13, 18648.45 a. m. General TERRY: Dispatch received 8.30. Heard first sharp musketry at 7.40; next at 8 oclock. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 186410.30 a. in. Major-General BUTLER, Commanding Department: General Ames, whose left rests npon the Darbytown road, and whose right extends more than half a mile, as he says, from the road, has felt the enemys line, and sends me the report from his brigade command- ers that along the whole of his front there are rifle-pits and slashing, the slashing from 100 to 200 yards in width. There is a battery oppo- site his center. General William Birney reports a strong inclose Page 219 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 219 work on the Darby road, with artillery, but whether more than one gun is not known. Some distance to the west of the road is another work in which there is also artillery. He cannot ascertain if the work is inclosed or not. Connecting these two works is a strong breast-work, covered by a slashing. This breast-work extends beyond the last-meu- ti6ned work, how far is not yet known, but is trying to ascertain. General Kautz, on Ames right, has a part of his men dismounted, and I have asked him to feel all along, to ascertain whether the line is con- tinuous or ends between the two roads. Spear is on the Charles City road with his brigade, and reports in his front two regiments of cavalry and a small force of infantry. As at present advised, I think we cannot pierce their works except by massing on some point and attacking in column. I hesitate to do this without further instructions from you after our conversation of last night. Please direct me in regard to it. As well as I can ascertain, the works are as you located them on the map last evening. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 186412.10 p. m. General TERRY: Dispatch received contents referred to General Grant. Will send orders. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18641.30 p. m. Major-General TERRY, Commanding: I would not attack the enemy in their intrenchments. Having care- fully reconnoitered the enemy, fonnd their position, and looked out all the roads, retire at leisure. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18642 p. m. (Received 2.40 p. in.) General BUTLER: Since my last dispatch to you Kantz reported to me that there was a place beyond Ames right in front of which there appeared to be no slashing. I therefore ordered Ames to extend his right and try to break in. I have just received yonr dispatch ordering me to retire at leisure, but at the moment of its reception Ames movement was in progress. I am not yet informed of the result, but from the cessation of firing I do not think it has been successful. Will report again in a few moments. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General Page 220 220 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. jOHAP. LIV. hEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY Conps, October 13, 18643 p. m. (Received 3.27 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: Ames attempt to pierce the line was not successful. I shall now retire in accordance with your last dispatch. ALP. II. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18647 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: My troops are all in. We were not followed except by a line of skirmishers on the extreme right. These came on but for a short dis- tance, and were soon stopped by the artillery. I think that the total loss in this corps is between 300 and 400, of which from two-thirds to three-fonrths falls on the First Division. I do not know Kautzs loss, but think it must be slight. I expect to be able to telegraph you the precise number of casualties this evening. ALP. II. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18647.10 a. m. Brigadier.General AMES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: I would suggest that you form a crochet on your right or an echelon to cover your righ.t flank until the truth of Colonel Spears report is ascertained. Very respectfully, ~W~. ~. SHREVE. Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Colonel CURTIS, Commanding Brigade, & cond Division: COLONEL: Please look out fbr my left. Get scouts well out, and should you ascertain any attempt to turn my left (the left of General Birney), march against the enemy and attack him. Respectfully, yours, ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18648.45 a. m. Gen9ral BIRNEY, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that General Ames is prepared to attack. When he goes in, please to mak Page 221 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 221 as strong a demonstration as you can with your skirmishers. Please endeavor to ascertain more definitely the nature of the works on your left. Very respectfully, & c., WM. ~. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: During my absence out ou my lines some deserters were forwarded to you. I am told that one of them, from the Eighteenth Georgia, reports that Kershaws division was to relieve the local defense troops in my front to-day. If Kershaws division is as near as that, wont it be used against Terry to-day ~ G. WEITZEL, Brevet ]Jiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: General Paine reports the arrival of one regiment of the enemy, about 250 strong, in front of our left and moving toward our right. Respectfully, G. WEITZEL, Brevet ilfajor-General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. (Received 12.28 p. in.) Lieut. Col. B. W. SMITH: The following dispatch has just been received from General Paine: There has been a good (leal of firing in the enemys lines in different places this a. in.; at first sounding like discharging pieces; since more irregular. One regi- ment just now seemed to be formed in the breast-works; more men than usual are about. Several groups are collected in places. C. ~. PAINE, Third Dirnsioa. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL: What do you make of Paines dispatch~ BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding Page 222 222 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 186412.50 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: I was out on picket-line when all he reports occurred. I saw and heard it all. I believe their troops, either in anticipation of an attack or in consequence of the rain last night, were discharging muskets to clean them up. I have ordered Paine, however, to keep a strict watch on their movements. Their gun-boats, too, occupy positions now as though they expected a movement on our left; they cover that whole ground. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGhTEENTh ARMY CORPS, October 13, 18641.25 p. m. (Received 1.40 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: I hear that Terry has driven the enemy from the works they were constructing and has passed on. Quite brisk skirmishing was going on at 12.30, 50 my pickets near New Market road report. G. WETTZEL, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. [Indorsement.1 Forwarded for the information of General Grant. I have not heard from Terry since I sent orders not to attack the works. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 18641.30 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL: Terry has found the enemy in force and intrenched. I have ordered him to return after making reconnaissance. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. (Received 9.50 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: The following dispatch has just been received: OLD HEADQUARTERS EIGILTEENTII ARMY Conrs. General WEITZEL: It is reported that new troops have relieved Picketts division on this front. THEG. READ, Assistant Adjutant- Generat. I think I had better seDd the Twelfth New Hampshire, Potters reg- iment, over there at once. That place is weak, and this regiment would give Potter much confidence. Shall I do it? C. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General Page 223 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 13, 186410.05 p. m. Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Gorps: Send the Twelfth New Hampshire to Potter immediately. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- ieneral. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. General BUTLER: It will be sent at once. G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS PIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. (Received 10.30 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: GENERAL; I would respectfully call your attention to the ease of Capt. Cecil Clay, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Yolunteers, who lost one arm and was wounded in the other while establishing his regimental colors on the parapet of Fort Harrison September 29. This is a special case and deserves special Incution. Respectfully, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH CORPS, October 13, 18644 p. m. Maj. T. READ, Assistant A djntant- General: Have just returned from headquarters Tenth Corps; learn that our forces have three times charged the rebel works on Darbytown road and been repulsed; that the rebels have in turn charged us and been repulsed. Our loss said to be some 250 killed and wounded. Respectfully, G. MARSTON, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Major READ, Assistant Adjntan t- General: A regiment just passed through woods in rear of enemy~s extreme right tour left) behind their works toward our right; how far they went dont know; had knapsacks on and many stragglers; looked as if just arrived from a distance. This is reported by Colonel Holman, coin- manding First Brigade, who saw them; thought to be 250. There has been an unusual number of men and squads of men everywhere i Page 224 224 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CRAP. LIV. and in front of enemys lines all day, especially p. m. A new embrasure has just been cut bearing abont toward my headquarters in second work down the curtain from Fort Harrison. Respectfully, C. J. PAINE, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. PRovISIoNAL BRIGADE, ARMY OF THE JAMES, DEFENSES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED, VA., October 13, 186411.40 a. m. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Headquarters Army of the James: COLONEL: A rebel deserter has just come in who reports that the enemy is being re-enforced in my front, and that several regiments have come in within a day or two. I have sent the deserter to your head- quarters. Yours, & c., J. H. POTTER, Colonel Twelfth New Hampshire Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, October 13, 18648.35 p. m. Colonel POTTER: The signal officer on your left reports the enemy have been up in a balloon making observations on your line and signaling to parties below. Keep a sharp lookout and advise me of any movement. B. F. BUTLER, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Colonel POTTER: I have just sent you the Twelfth New Hampshire. It will be over to-night. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 13, 1864. Brigadier-General KAUTZ, Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: It seems to me very desirable to ascertain how far the enemys intrenchments extend to onr right, and whether or not they are on the Charles City road. Cannot your skirmishers between Ames right and the Charles City road drive in the enemys skirmishers, so as to determine the location and extent of their works in that quarter ~? IhaveorderedAmes to attack,and an advance of your skirmishers will aid him. Very respectfully, A. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General Page 225 CHAP. LIV.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 225 CITY POINT, October 14, 18611 p. rn. Mawr-General 1-TALLECK (Received 3.30 p. in.) Jlashington: I wish you would order Allens battery (Fl, Rhode Island) here. I will send back in return to be recruite(l up Batteries A and 13, Rhode island. These two number but one officer and seventy-nine mcii. U. S. GRANT, J~tCwtepant- General. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE i~OTOMAC, October 14, 186412 in. (Sent 12.10 p. mu.) Lieutenant General GRANT: Conversations with cavalry vedettes on the left yesterday seemed on the part of the enemy to indicate some movements of theft cavalry against our rear, as l)articnlar inquiry was made as to the location of the colored troops. The day and night have, however, passed without disturbance. I)eserters continue to repeat report of the presence of General Whiting with re-enforcemnents from North Carolina. I can- not ascertain anything positive upon this point, but judge from so many runiors that it is probable some effort is being made to procure re-enforcements from that State undex Whiting. In view ofaprobable cavalry movement I am unable to report the progress of the works in front of City Point under General Benham, as that officer does not, although ordered to do so, make almy reports to these headquarters. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- (}en era 1, Corn mandiny. Cliv POINT, October 14, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Major-General MEADE: My staff officers have examined the work done by General il3enhanm and report it about as defensible as ordinary rifle-pits, with the work l)rogressing well. Owing to a threatening attack on Bermuda hun- dred I had to order back one of the regiments drawn from General Butler during the night last night. This diminishes Benhams work- ing force. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC PROYOST-1XIARSHALGENEI AL~5 DEPARTMENT, October 14, 1864. Major-General IiUMPIIREYS, Chief of AS~tajf: GENERAL: Four deserters from Archers and MacRaes brigades, of Heths division, came into Geneial Parkes lines to-night. No change in the enemys position on tile right. Cookes brigade on extreme right jonas the cavalry near Claypoles house (mnaiked J. Boisseans on map). No reserve forces on the right. Works very strong and well defended 1~ R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 226 226 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP LIV. with slashings and abatis. No information concerning Whitings divis- ion. One of informants heard it was t Stony Creek a week ago. Other informants think the rumor of its having arrived here is a canard. The line from the lead-works to the extreme right is still held by ileths and three brigades of Wilcoxs division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF TIlE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 14, 1864. Major-General IIuMPmREYS, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: Scouts have just returned bringing the following coin- munication from Itichmond agent. Some of Earlys men have arrived say about a brigade, amounting to probably 3,000 or 4,000 men. If the numbers mentioned are at all accurate, a division inlIst have arrived, as there is no brigade in Earlys command which numbers over 1,200 men. The last report made by scouts from Fredericksburg was to the effect that iaut of the troops which ha been sent from Richmond to Early bad returned to iRichmond. The indications from their report were that it was Kershaws command. The Richmond agent also reports that a body of artillerymen have arrived from Earlys command without their guns. These are undoubtedly the men belonging to the artillery recently captured by General Sheridan. These men have been placed in the local defenses of Richmond. General Kemper is in command of the city of Richmond. General Lees headquarters are at James Taylors farm, near and northwest from Chaffins Bluff. A good report is expected early next week from the same party. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. MCENTEE, Captain, Je. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 14, 18649 a. in. Captain PAINE: At 7.10 a. in. an engine moved westward on South Side Railroad~ No other movements have been observed from this station. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 14, 186g. Major FIShER: Sergeant Jordan reports that a small infantry camp west of Poca- hontas and near Richmond pike disappeared last night. No other changes. Carothers reports that more infantry camped during the night in new camp west of railroad and to right of large fort. The camp now consists of about two brigades. All quiet and no other change visible. Holman reports all quiet. I had given such orders in regard to intercepted muessages. P. A. TAYLOR, Signal Officer Page 227 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 227 CHURCH RoAD SIGNAL STATION, October 14, 18645 12. m. Captain PAINE: At 1 p. m. 200 infantry passed fort going west on Boydton plank road. During the p. m. the enemy was engaged in felling trees before his works on this front. At 3.30 p. in. five wagon-loads of corn-stalks passed fort on Boydton plank road going east. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, S1GNAL DEPARTMENT, October 14, 1864. Major-General HUMPIIREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the following report from the signal officer at the headquarters Fifth Corps: A summary for to-day is as follows: A camp of at least a brigade of infantry has disappeared from the Boydton plank road near Rohick [Rohoick] Creek, and small parties of men have passed westward during the day on that road. Working parties have been engaged dnring the day felling timber in front of the fort or work near the P. Jones-house. DAVIS, Captain. I am, general, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, WM. S. STRYKER, Acting (Jhief Signal Officer, Army qf the Potomac. SPEClAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFIcE, No. 347. Washington, October 14, 1864. * * * * * * 45. By direction of the President, Byt. Brig. Gen. James Gwyn, U. S. ~~~olnnteers, is hereby assigned to dnty according to his brevet raiik. He will report to Lieutenant-General Grant by letter for orders. 4C1. By direction of the President, Bvt. Brig. Gen. E. M. Gregory, U. S. ~olnnteers,is hereby assigned to dnty according to his brevet rank. He will report by letter to Lientenant-General Grant for orders. * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECiAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 278. October 14, 1864. * * * * * 4. Upon the recommendation of the commanding officer Second Army Corps, the garrison of Fort Sedgwick will be changed by snb- stitnting the One hnndred and tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers for the Seventeenth Maine Volnnteers, now in the work. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- Ceucra 1 Page 228 [CHAP. LIV. 228 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. (Received 9 a. in.) General WILLIAMS: There has been no change in my lines since last report. It is said that the enemy are constructing a new work opposite Fort MeGilvery. Some new dirt has been thrown np there, but not enough to determine the nature of the work. The fraise for the second line between Hare honse and Fort MeGilvery is being constructed, and the line will be ready to occupy as soon as the fraise is done. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Mc~or- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. General S. WILLIAMS, A8sistant Adjutant-General: The Nineteenth Indiana Volunteers reported to inc yesterday. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 14, 186412 rn. (Sent 12.10 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK: I desire you should place any force you may have on the Jerusalem plank road in Forts Stevenson and Blaisdell, with instructions to assist the engineer troops iii completing these works and aftei ward keeping them in good condition. The presence of the cavalry on that road will relieve your infantry of much picketing, and should the cavalry be withdrawim, which they would be in case of a movement of the enemys cavalry, the occupation of these works with a few guns, if you can spare them, would secure the plank road from being used by the enemy. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 14, 186412.55 p. m. Major-General MEADE, Commanding: I have ordered garrisons to Forts Stevenson and Blaisdell. I have no artillery. The section I had in reserve I put in the second line in rear of Fort Sedgwick last night. I have a section in Fort Bross. My reserves on the plank road are exhausted, but I still have one at Fort Hays. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. Lient. JOHN W. HODER, Commanding Battery Ifl Fourth U. ~. Artillery: LIEUTENANT: The niajor conimandin g directs me to say that he wishes you to keep up an irregular fire at intervals during the nigh Page 229 (1~HAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 229 on the work which the enemy is erecting in front of Fort MeGilvery for the purpose of annoying working parties. If the Eleventh New York Battery commands the position better than yours he desires that battery to keep up the necessary fire. If necessary, show this letter to the commanding officer Eleventh New York Battery. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. D. EDDY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIYJSON, SECOND CORPS, October 14, 186~. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report the following changes in the lines of this division: The Second U. S. Sharpshooters, Eighty-sixth and One hundred and twenty-fourth New York Volunteers have been removed from their position in rear of the woods to the rear of the second line of works, near Fort Sedgwick. Nothing further of note occurred since my last report. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, R. DE ThOBIRTAND, Brigadier- General. HEADQITARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 14, 1864. Brigadier-General DE TROERIAND, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you send a large regiment (not less than 250 men) to Fort Stevenson, on the high ground near the Williams house, and a small regiment to the work on the plank road near the Finn house, known as Fort Blaisdell. These troops will put the forts in repair under direction of the engineers, and will afterward be required to keep them in order. Please report the number and commanders of the garrisons. Respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 18649.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance transpired during yesterday and last night. A picket-line was established last night in front of Fort Dushane, covering the Halifax road and extend- ing to the Vaughan road on the right, connecting with the pickets of the Ninth Corps. A force was thrown into Fort Davison and outpost Page 230 ~3O OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. 1CHAP. LVI. established in front of that point for its protection, and also for the protection of the corps train. A deserter from Sixteenth North Caro- lina Regiment was received last evening. He will be sent up at once. Respectfully, ~. ~. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- Genera 1, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 14, 1864I p. m. General S. W. CRAWFORD, Commanding Thfth CoNps We just heard a gun in the direction of your lines. The command- ing general desires to be informed of the cause of the firing. Please answer at once by telegraph, as the general is abont leaving camp. S. WILLIAMS, A ssistan t Adjutant- General. - HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. (Received 5 p. in.) Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant A jutant- General: I have ascertained the cause of the explosion to be a shell lying in the road not far from Fort Dushane. A large fire has been raging all day in the timber, and as it spread found this shell in its path. For Brigadier-General Crawford: Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 186412.20 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: We have heard several explosions to the north, u~ortheasf of ns. Have you heard anything in relation to them ~ JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 14, 1864I .45 p. m. (Sent 1.50 p. in.) General J. G. PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The explosions you allude to we take to be the firing of the gun- boats up the river. We have received no information upon the subject, however. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 231 CHAP. L[V.] Co RESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 231 HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, October 14, 1864. (Received 10 a. in.) Brevet Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: You will reoccupy the position held by your command before the movement, relieving such of General Weitzels command as were placed there during your absence. By order of Major-General Butler: ED. W SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTh ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. Lieut. Col. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- Gen era] My losses yesterday foot up as follows: Killed, 3 officers, 33 men; wounded, 14 officers, 296 men; missing, 1 officer, 23 men;- aggregate, 18 officers, 352 mnen.* ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. Lientenant-Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General: General Kautz reports to me the following casualties on the 13th: Killed, 2; wounded, 29; missing, 13; aggregate, 44.t ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Jlfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: Shall my troops take the position they occupied before Terrys reconnaissance ~ G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. BUTLERS HEADQITARTERS, October 14, 1864. (Received 9.40 a. m) Brevet Major-General WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps General Terry will reoccupy his old position. You will withdraw your troops which were sent there as fast as relieved by I~iiii. By order of Major-General Butler: ED. YvT SMITH, Assistant Adjatant- General. But see revised statement, Part I, p. 147 But see revised statement, Part 1, p. 148 Page 232 232 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 18G4. (Iteceived 8.30 p. in.) General BUTLER: Michie has just left to lix things. I believe that if they meaui to do anything at all, it is to release their men at Dutch Gap. Our gun- boats should be put in position there at once. If they attempt that hill on my left, I think they will have a hard time. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HENDQITARTER S Ei GHTEENTI-I ARMY CORPS, October 14, 186410.20 p. rn. General BUTLER: There is unusual commotion in the enemys line in front of Fort Har- rison. Trains and trool)s seen moving toward our right from pontoon bridge. Commands of rebel officers (listinctly heard. I have sent a staff officer to keep close watch and report the whole truth about the matter. G. WEITZEL, Brevet 11Th/or- General. hEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Octobe 14, 1864. (Received 11.45 p. in.) General BUTLER: The movement reported a short time since is to the enemys left. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGIITEE~TH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. (Received 7.50 p. in.) General BUTLER: General Weitzel has two regiments in reserve, and one of them, the Ninth Vermont, numbers 600 men. I think this will be large enough to do what you wish. Shall he send this one, or two? PETER S. MICHIE, Lieutenant, U. S. Engineers. BWFLEIms HEADQUARTERS, October 14, 1864. Lieutenant MICifiE: I think that one would do, but does General Weitzel desire to weaken his reserves so much? There is no trouble on the right. This, if done at all, is some devilment on the lefteither oni cattle, or bridge at Aikens, these headquarters, your Coxs Hill fort, or Dutch Gap. It is J)ossible that they mean to seize and fortify, under cover of their boats, the hill to the left of Weitzels line. Yen ail(l Weitzel will make such dispositions as wilt take care of all of us. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major. General, Commanding Page 233 CHAP. LiVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 233 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQIRS. FIRST DIv., 18TH ARMY CORPS, No. 103. October 14, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson, Second New Hampshire Volunteers, is hereby temporarily assigned to the command of the Third Brigade of this division. By command of Brig. Gen. Gilman Marston: GEORGE A. BRUCE, Capta~a and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. KAIJTZS CAVALRY DIVISION, No. 9. In the Field, October 14, 1864. The First Maryland Cavalry, Colonel Evans commanding, and the First Mounted Rifles New York Volunteers, Colonel Sumner command- ing, will constitute the Third Brigade of this division. Colonel Evans, of the Maryland cavalry, will assume command of the brigade. By command of Brigadier.General Kautz: THEO. 11. SCIIENCK, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, October 15, 1864. Major-General MEADE: Scouts of the enemy are cutting the wire between Powhatau and Jamestown about as rapidly as we can put it up. I am determined to stop this or clear out tile country. To effect this object I wish you would send a regiment of cavalry. Let them go to Powhataii iu the morning. I will send from here my escort company to go from there with them, and will send instructions by them. Tile escort knows the roads and country. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Gen oral. [Indorsementi HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 15, 18648 p. m. The foregoing dispatch is transmitted to Brigadier-General Gregg, who will, in accordance therewith, send a regiment of cavalry, to be at Fort Powhatan to-morrow morning, to join the escort of the lieutenant- general commanding, and be governed by the instructions there received. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. OCTOBER 15, 1864. Memorandum of General J. G. Barnard, chief engineer: I have studied carefully the whole problem, and of the different oper- ations which suggest themselves I cannot convince myself that there is any one offering chances enough of success, save tlm~t of waiting for an increase of the army, until we can get a marching column of 40,000 men. I cannot believe now that there is any chance of surprising Richmond. If we had promptly withdrawn and (apparcutly) given it up and throwi Page 234 284 OPmflONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. (0BhP. LW. our forces off to the left, we might, perhaps, have repeated with better knowledge what failed on first attempt The enemy is now too much on his guard. The assault In front of B~u~ Hundred seems to me a very doubtftul affair, unless we are sure that the enemy is in exceedingly small force. I should look upon the most practicable point to be from the center and the right simplybecause the rebel lines are near (about half a mile), and b~cause from our lines we have free egress. To attack between SwiftCreek andkshton Swamp requires a march of two miles after emerging from our necessarily narrow outlet On this center of his lines the enemy can, in two or three hours, bring every disposable man from each end of his lines to meet our attack. Hence, unless we can can/the lines at on we cannot doit at alL In the present state of military and political affairs it is better to do nothing untilour forces are much more adequate than they are now to effect decisive results. At present everything is well enough, and Richmond must ultimately fall, unless the course of things is changed by a disaster which would strengthen the hands of the peace and cessation party. If it were concluded to postpone any decisive operation for some weeks there is one thing that might be done: that is, close up our lines of investment Much as has been asserted about the uselessness of our artillery ire, I cannot believe that 100 guns enfilading the enemys lines and firing into the town can be without great effect. By extending our lines yards westerly from Fort Davis we should have emplacement for guns, which would enfilade and take in reverse the whole rebel line facing~ from Fort McGilveryto Fort Rice. Continuing this he a little south of west we would strike our new lines beyond Fort Wadsworth. This wouldactuallyshortenour front~ but itisnotinthis relation I speakof it It would enable us to bring a destructive artillery fire on the enemys lines, and would compel him to keep a great many more men in Peters- burg than he now does, thus dimimehing his power of opposing us else. where. Retpectfully, . 1. 0. BARNARD. HuADQunTnS An~ oi THE Jins, I. the fleW, October 15,1864. (Received 9.30p. in.) Colonel SHAm, Prnoet-MrehaI, (Jity Point: AU of Picketts division and Thomas brigade are hour frontbetween theAppomattox and James. The four regiments that were on the north side have gone there, and all lie in reserve in rearof the Howlett house batterj. JOHN L DAVEflORT~ Ideutnant, MJ.de.Oap end Aaeletet Provoet-MarahaL CHuROH Ron) SIGNAL STATION, October 15, 1864U & n. Captain Pun:. With the exception of nine wagons moving westward at 8 a. m. on Boydton plank road, we have been unable to detect any moves or changes from this station. J. L PRAY, Lergent Page 235 ChAP. LIV.] CORRESPO TDENCE, ETC .UNION. 235 HEADQUARTERS SECOND AR V CORPS, October 15, 1864. Lient. W. S. STRYKER, i4ljutant Signal Corps: Sergeant Carothers reports all quiet. No change. Holman says it is too foggy for observations. Jordan reports small party of enemy at work on new fort. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. CHURCH ROAD Si NAL STATION, October 15, 18644 p. m. Captain PAINE: During the day men were seen drilling in the vicinity of fort, 30 degrees east of north. At 4.15 p. m. the section of artillery that was lying in this front was removed. Men carry camp-poles, & c., westward along their works. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 15, 18645.30 p. m. Captain I)AVIS: At 8 a. m. nine wagons moved westwai d on Boydton plank road. Dining the day men have been (Irilling in the vicinity of fort, 30 degrees east of north. Otherwise all has been before reported. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAL STATION, October 15, 18646 p. m. Captain DAVIS: No change visible in the enemys line on this front to-day. Smokes, indicative of large camp, seem at ame point as reported yesterday, on plank road bearing north 15 [degrees] west. Twenty-five wagons seen near toll-gate oii Boydlon plank road, moving in direction of lead- works. SLEEPER, Sergeant. HDQRS. ARI V OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPART.~ ENT, October 15, 1864. Major-C eneral HUMPJIREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that signal stations report this evening all quiet. - The station near the Jerusalem plank road reports that at 5.30 p. in. there were indications th t the eneniy5 camps of about two brigades west of Weldon railroad and to the right of large fort were about to be broken np, although the tents were still standing and no movements had yet taken l)lace. The station near the Friend hous Page 236 236 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N.~ C. [CHAP. LIV. reports that the enemy are exten(iing and strengthening work just above Fort Clifton. The station at the Avery house reports small parties at work to-day between the Crater and point in front of Fort, Sedgwick. The following messages were nltercel)ted: 5.10 A. M. CGlonel B.: The followin~ observations were made from the station in front of General Stenarts brigade. Regiments of infantry ~vent up the river, going to the front on the north side; wagons passed on same road goin6 in same direction; one regiment of cavalry drilling in re~ r of the upper breast-works; the dredging-machine still at work near Dutch Gap. I also observed from Dnnns this afternoon the following: One regi- ment of infantry passed open space going to the front in Chesterfield; gnu-boat above pontoon. This mess ge was delayed last night by the fog. J. Q. E. (Same to A. B.) 10.30 A. M. Colonel B.: All quiet this a. m. Gun-boat at the pontoon. J. A. S., At C. (Same.toA. B.) I am, general, very re~pectftully, your obedient servant, WM. S. STRYKEII, Acting Chief Signal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFiCE, No~ 348. Washington, October 15, 1864. * * * * * * * 18. The leave of absence for twenty days granted Brig. Gen. I. Vogdes, U. S. Volunteers, in Special Orders, No. 280, October 8, 1864, from head- quarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, is hereby cx- ten(led five days. * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. P. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ENGINEER BRIGADE AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, VA., October 15, 1864. Lient. Co]. T. S. BOwERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Armies of the United States: SIR: I desire to lay before the lieutenant-general commanding a statement in relation to the great want of officers in the Engineer Bri- gade under my command, which, notwithstanding tlie repeated efforts made by myself, and seconded by his own approval, as also that of Gen- eral Meade, still continues, to the great detriment of the efficiency of these two large regiments. The Fifteenth New York Engineers, really a battalion of three companies, formed in June, 1863, of three years men of a two years regiment, had two companies added to it during the winter and spring. These five companies, all full, with abont 150 men each, are now with these armies; one company detached from these headquarters to tbe bridges, of I)eep Bottom, with two officers only, one, with two officers only, detached in charge of the corps bridge trains of General Mead& s army, and three companies are here in camp Page 237 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE~ ETCUNION. 237 These three companies have three licuteuants detached to take care of recruits (referred to hereinafter), and these iiow have but four company officers present for duty with these 600 men. In addition to this, there is now another company of 150 recruits seiit to this regiment, but it has not a single company officer for or belonging to it. The Fiftieth New York Yoluimteer Engineers, of twelve companies of 150 men each, is full and has been so for sonic time past, and still there have been sent here by officers at Elmira., N. Y., and at Washington, about 943 mcii for the Fiftieth New York Regiment. And with these men there are, as I am informed, three persons having commissions to the Fiftieth Regiment, which at the time of issue at least, if not now, was in excess of the organization, and three other persons only who have not yet, but expect commissions. The facts in brief, therefore, are that there now are seven companies of 150 nien and 43 surplus men here, or about 1,100 men in all who have not a single commissioned officer properly belonging to them to care for their discipliiie, clothing, or other re- quirements; and if these extra men were transferred to the Fifteenth Regiment, as authorized by the lieutenant-general, there will then be required for these, twenty-eight company and two medical officers, a colonel,lieutenant-colonel, and two majors, iu all thirty-four officers, to duly care for these men. NOW, in the anticipation of this state of things, I have made repeated efforts, which I am gratified to feel have been sanctioned by the commanding general for the past four or live weeks, to have some of these officers provided for and commissioned by the Governor of the State of New York. On the 13th of September 1 forwarded a letter through yourself to Lieutenant-General Grant on this subject, recommending such officers as I thought worthy of pro- motion. This I have understood was at once recounnended and for- warded by the lieutenant-general. On tue 21st of September I made a statement of the case, which I have reason to believe was laid before Governor Seymour by an officer of this regiment. On the 24th I ad- dressed another letter, with redommendations, to General Meade, which I understood was approved and forwarded, through the Adjutant-Gen- erals Office, at Washington, to the Governor; and on the 27th, on my addressing a letter to General Barnard, lie wrote one to the lieutenant- general recommending the colonel and lieutenant-colonel proposed by lime, which letter I understood was favorably indorsed and forwarded to Governor Seymour, and still, since the k st application of nearly three weeks ago, no official response has reached here from the Gov- ernor of the State of New York. In this state of things I would re- spectfully ask of the lientenant-general such actioii as he may deem proper and fitting under the circumstances, aware as he will be of the great importance for the early efficiency of these men, that their proper officers should be at once appointed for the care of their per- sonal and public property, discipline, & c. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. I3ENIIAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SEcONI ARMY Coups, October 15, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS, A8si8tant Adjutant- General: During the past night the enemy have been working on their hues in my fromit. They have perfected a line near the Crater a little in rea Page 238 238 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. of the old line, and seem to be building a work to flank their lines in front of Fort MeGilvery. The supposed position of the working parties was shelled all nibht at intervals. The enemy show unusual vigor in strehgthening their lines. New and strong fraise can be discovered opposite Fort Morton. WINFD S. hANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 15, 186410.30 p. m. (Sent 11 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK, & cond Corp~: Your dispatch in reference to the new works and projects of the enemy has been referred to Major Michler, acting chief engineer, who has been directed to make examinations and report. Ii hardly think we shall have the time, if we had the men, to erect the new works indicated by you. Can you spare any working parties from your corps ~ GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQLTARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 15, 1864. (Received 11.25 p. in.) Major-General MEADE: I suppose I could furnish small working parties, but the eomm uders now think their men are worked unusually hard. They are furnishing some men daily, building a corduroy road from Jones house to Averys house and defensive works along the lines. There are a good many recruits iii the command whom we are trying to drill, and I have not allowed them to be worked within the last tew days on that ecount. Very respectfully, WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY Convs, October 15, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjntant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the chan~ es in the garrisons of the inclosed works on this line directed in Special Orders, No.277, current series, from headquarters Army of the Potomac, were made dur- ring the night. The following changes in commanding officers became necessary by the discharge and muster-out of Captain Ketcham, Sixty- fourth New York Volunteers, and Major Larkin, Fifth New Hampshire, respectively: Maj. W. A. Crafts, Fifth New Hampshire, to command Fort Stedra an; Capt. Victor I). Itenwick, Sixty-fourth New York, to coin- mand Fort Haskell. The names of commanding officers of Batteries 11 and 12, left blank in order above mentioned, are Lient. I. Murphy, Sixty- ninth New York, comm anding Battery 11; Lieutenant Sweeney, Sixty- nuith New York, comm anding Battery 12; the One hundred and elev- enth New York, Captain Murdock, garrisons Battery 14. Very respectfully, NELSON A. MILES, Brigadier- ~eneral of oimn teers, 61omm inding Page 239 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 239 IIDQRS. FOURTH BRIG., FIRST Div., SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 15, 1864. Captain DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ti st Division: CAPTAIN: In compliance with the requirements of circular of this date from the headquarters First Division, I have the honor to report the numbers, positions, & c., of my reserves, as follows: Co noand. No of Position. 148th Peirnsylvaoia Volunt~ors 182 108 1 1i6ti~ Pennsylvania Volooiteevs I ~ of Fort Stodman. COtI. New York Xolnootccrs j~ I 7th Now York A ~tiilery Total 08 From this reserve a detail of 100 is required each day for picket. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedien t servant ST. CLAJIt A. MULUOLLAND, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 15, 1864. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honoi to report the following changes in the lines of this division: The Fortieth New York Volunteers (First Brigade), unmnbering 15 officers and 236 enlisted men, are occupying the works on the plank road near the Finn honse, known as Fort Blaisdell, under command of Major Cannon; the Eighth New Jersey Battalion (Third Brigade), with the exception of one company previously detached to Fort Davis, numbering 40 officers and 536 enlisted men, occupies Fort Stevenson, on the high ground near the Williams house, under com- mand of Col. John 11am sey. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. DE TIIOBIIIAND, Brigadier- General. IIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 15, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Coi~ps MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the enemy has thrown up some additional works, consisting of a line of rifle-pits extending from the Crater to the large work near the railroad. Yesterday a working party of 300 or 400 caine out in front of Battery 14, but was dispersed by the artillery fire. Au irregular fire was kept up last nigbt from Lieutenant 11oders battery in Fort MeGilvery on the work that the enemy is erecting in his front. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. IIAZAIID, Mi{jor, Cornm anding Page 240 240 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FiFTH ARMY CORPS, October 15, 18619 a. m. Brig. Gem S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- Gene rat: I have the honor to report that all was quiet iu front of this corps during yesterday and last night.. Heavy artillery firing and a good deal of musketry continued at intervals during the night. It sounded far to our right. Respectfully, ~. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 15, 1864. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Fifth Corps: GENERAL: It will be necessary you should extend your line cover- ing the intrenchments to Battery 24. For this purlose you may reduce the garrisons of Forts Wadsworth and Dushane to 300 men each. I would also like a small force of one or two companies kept in Fort Davison to keep the work in repair, and see that the abatis aud other works are not destroyed. Respectfnfly, G1~. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 15, 18647.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Our signal station on the Church road reports the removal of a see- tion of the enemys artillery from a point near the R. Jones house, and was discovered by the felling of timber by the enemy yesterday. S. W. CRAWFORD. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 15, 1864. Brigadier-General BAXTER, Corn manding Third Division GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you relieve the pickets of the Ninth Corps in front of Fort Dushane. You will relieve from tihe Halifax road, half way between Fort Dushane and the fort next on the right. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 241 CHAP. lAY.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Coups, October 15, iSGilO a. m. Major-General HUMPIIREYS, Chief of Staff: I have the honor to report all quiet along our lines during the past tweuty-four hours. Four deserters caine in during the day, two from the Fourth South Carolina Cavalry, Dunovants brigade, two from Sixty-second Georgia, Dearings brigade. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. IJEADQLTARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 15, 186410.30 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Ninth Corps: I fiud Crawford has men enough to cover the gap on his right, so that I shall not require you to extend any to the right. It would be well to get some reserve if you can by withdrawing troops from such parts of your iutrenched line as will admit of their being spared. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 15, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WiLLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: 1 have the honor to a~)ply for authority to organize an additional brigade in this division. The division, as now organized, consists of eleven regiments au~l one battalion (this latter being about equal in strength to some of the regiments), thus constituting two bri- gades. The number of men present for duty in the division is 4,337. This number will be increased to 5,000 by mounting the Twenty-first Pennsylvania Cavalry. In the ensuing thirty days the strength of some of the regiments will be reduced by reason of expiration of term of serv- ice, but the mounting of other regiments of dismounted cavalry will keep the strength of the division to 5,000 men for duty, and when all are mounted its strength would reach 6,000. This division would well organize into three brigades. Each brigade woul(l be coml~osed of a proper number of regiments and have efficient strength. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MCM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISiON, CAVALRY Coups, October 15, 1864. Brig. Gen. II. E. DAVIES, Commanding First Brigade, Second Dirision: GENERAL: In compliance with instructions received from head- (Illarters Army of the Potomac, you will send a regiment of your bri- gade at an early hour to-morrow morning to Fort Powhatamm. At Fort Powhatan the regiment will be joined by. Lieutenant-General Grants 16 R RVOL XLII, PT II Page 242 242 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. escort company, and the commanding officer will receive his instruc- tions there. The enemys scouts are constantly cutting the telegraph wires between Powhatan and Jamestown, and it is iutended that your regiment, together with the escort company, shall drive them out of the country. The regiment must go supplied with three days rations and two days forage, and should leave camp at 5 oclock in the morning. By order of Brigadier-General Gregg: A. H. BIBBEJI, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, October 15, 1864. Capt. A. H. BIBBER, Acting Assistant A(jutant- General CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report all quiet along my picket-lines during the day. A scout was sent out seven miles to the right of the stage road, it having been reported that two regiments of the enemys cavalry were in that vicinity~ they found, however, no traces of any force there, and could not learn that any had been there. Mrs. il3rock- well, a jloyal citizen, as appears front her papers, sent in word to Major Beaumont, First New Jersey Cavalry, commanding picket-line, that on the 2d or 3d of this month three men took her husband away and that she could gaul no information of hint until yesterday, when she found him and his servant man both murdered, with theiL heads severed from their bodies, about three miles beyond our outpost. his crime was that he had taken the oath of allegiance some time ago amid had drawn rations from our forces at City Point. Major Beauinout sent out a patrol amid discovered the bodies as represented amid had them buried. Respectfully, H. E. DAVIES,JR., Brigadier- Ucucral, Commanding. hidorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 16, 1861. Respectfully P)rwarded to the lieutenant-general comumandin g. The authors of this fiendish outrage being unkmmown, it is impossible to punish their crime as it deserves, but it is respectfully su~-gested the attention of General Lee be called to this diabolical act as not be- lieving such conduct can be either kmmown or sanctioned by the Confed- erate authorities. Some action may be had on their part to l)rcvent similar occurrences in future. GEG. 0-. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 15, 1864. Lient. Col. 0-. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer at James River tower reports that the fort ~vith two salient angles on Chaffins farm, secomid I think fro Page 243 CHAP. LTY.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 243 Fort Harrison to enemys right, has had but an embrasure in each outer thee; another has been cut in one of the inner faces. They are at work at one through the other. Enemy at work on both sides of Coxs Ferry as usual. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. It. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. SIGNAL STATION OF OBSERVATION, In Front of the L~ft of the Tenth Army Corps Line, October 15, 18617 p. m. Lient. WILLIAM P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: The enemy has displayed great activity to-day in strengthening their breast-works and placing abatis all along their line. rrhe rebels com- menced throwing up amiother new breast-work this afternoon, joining an old rifle-pit, which touches the south side of the New Market road near a white painted building. About 150 men were seen at work upon it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, PAUL BRODJE, First Lientenant, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, Commanding Signal Detachment, Tenth Army Corps. (Copy sent to General Butler 8.30 p. in.) GENERAL ) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C ORDERS, No. 132. inARMY OF THE JAMEs, the Field, October 15, 1864. Brig. Gen. Charles K. Graham, U. S. Volunteers, is, in addition to his other duties, hereby assigned to the command of all the troops be- longing to this department occupying the lines between the James and Appomattox Rivers, or stationed on the south bank of the last-named river, including the garrison of Redoubt Converse, and the First Con- necticut Artillery. Commanding officers will report to him without delay. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, A~sistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL BUTLERS hEADQUARTERS, October 15, 1864. (Received 10 a. in.) Colonel ABBOT: I think that the wharf at Aikens Lauding will bear the 100-pounder gun, and will send some engineers down there to strengthen it in ease it is not. I w-ill want all of the 4~-[immcl~] rifles at the Water Battery. I should like to have the platform for the 100-pounder sent over to the redoubt as soon as possible. I got home late last niglmt or I would have sent sooner. PETER S. MICHIE, U. S. Engineers Page 244 244 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. DUTCH GAP, VA., October 15, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Train: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy fired several shots from their Coehorris to-day. The range is so great, however, that they appeared to fall at random. Moie attention was paid our batteries thaii usual, dropping most of their shells in their vicinity. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. II. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 15, 1864. (Received 8.40 p. in.) General BUTLER: The officer of the day of the corps informs me that deserters who came in to day report that the enemy were re-enforced by a divisioii last night. ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet ]Ilajor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. 3D BRIG., 2D Div., 10TH A. C., No. 20. S October 15, 1864. I. Maj. George B. Dyer, Ninth Maine Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty as acting assistant adjutant-general at these headquarters and will report to his regiment for duty. The colonel commanding takes this occasion to bear testimony to the ability and gallantry with which Major Dyer has always performed his duties, and to express his regret that Major Dyers well-deserved promotion prevents his being retained on the brigade staff. II. First Lient. and Adjutant IL S. Sanford, One hundred and fifteenth New York Volunteers, is hereby animounced as actimig assistant adjutant-general of this brigade and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By order of Col. Louis Bell, commanding brigade: [G. W. HUCKINS,] Lieut., A ide-dc-Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 15, 1864. (Received 12.40 p. in.) - General BUTLER: I think the best way to prevent the rebel gun-boats from attacking our left or Dutch Gap is to put torpedoes in the river at the left of our picket-line. If this is done, the rebel flag-of-truce boat will have to be notified not to come down to Coxs Landing, and the prisoners will have to be transported through the left of our hue. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General Page 245 CIIAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 245 GENERAL ORDERs, ~ HDQRS. KAuizs CAVALRY DIVISION, No. 10. lit the Field, October 15, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel Patton, of the First New York Mounted Rifles, is hereby assigned to the command of the dismounted camp of this division. By comlnan(1 of Brigadier-General Kantz: THEG. H. SCHENCK, Miajor and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 16, 186412 m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Major-General Hancock reports the enemy strengthening and adding to his works on his (General Hancocks) immediate front. General Hancock last night directed his batteri?s to shell at intervals the enemys working parties. General Hancock likewise reports the enemy as throwing up works on the left bank of the Appomattox between Petersburg and Fort Clifton. General Hancock is of the opinion these works are designed for offensive movements looking to a crossing of the Appomattox on our right flank. I have directed Major Michler to examine into this matter and report, but am at present of theopin- ion these works are more likely to be defensive and to guard against such movement on our part, particularly if there is anything in the prevailing opinion the enemy are j)reparing to abandon the south side of the Appomattox. Quiet prevails on the left of our lines. The defen- sive works are nearly completed. I regret to have to report a contin- uance of desertions to the enemy from this army. Five are reported as having deserted last night from the Second Division, Ninth Army Corps, and three on the 14th instant from the Second Division, Second Army Corps; the latter, I regret to say, were old soldiers. Generally these desertions, which of late h~ive become quite frequent, have been confined to newly arrived recruits, and mostly substitutes and foreigners. A regilnent of cavalry was sent this morning to Fort Powhatan in ac- cordance with your instructions received last evening. A reconnais- sance made by General Gregg on the 14th instant in a southerly direc- tion failed to obtain any intelligence of previously reported movements by the enemys cavalry. They ascertained, however, that the enemys guerrillas had murdered a Mr. Brockwell and his servant, residing just without our picket-lines, for no other reason than that he had taken the oath of allegiance to the United States and drawn provisions from the commissary to feed his destitute family. The authors of this bar- barous outrage are unknown and cannot therefore be punished as their disgraceful crime merits. The victims headless body was found by our people, brought within our line, and buried. GEt). G. MEADFJ~ ill ajor- General. HEADQLTARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERALS DEPARTMENT, October 16,1864. M~jor-Geperal HUMPHREYS, Chief of ~~tctff: GENERAL: Five deserters, representing Harris, Sanders, and Wrights brigades, of Mahones division, came into the lines of the Second Arm Page 246 [CniP. LIV. 246 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. Corps last evening. rfhere has been no change in the position of Ma- hones division except that it moved a little to the left day before yes- terday, to fill the space vacated by Wises brigade, which has all or part of it withdrawn from the front. No indications of the arrival of any of Earlys command or Whitings division. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY 01? THE l~OTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 14, ISbI. Major-General 11 UMPHREYS~ Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that the signal station near the Jerusalem plank road reports this morning that the camp of the enemy reported last evening s ind~catirig a breaking np has settled down to their former qniet. The other stations report all quiet. The station at the Friend house reports that the enemy made some progress last night on their new fort in front of Fort McGilvery. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. STRYKER, Acting Chief Signal Officer. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 16, 18649 a. m. Captain PAINE: With the exception of an engine going west on the South Side Rail- road at 7.15 a. m. no movements or changes have been detected from this station. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 16, 18645 p. m. Captain PAINE: An unusual quietness has been observed throughont the enemys camp to-day. Much less than the usual amount of travel has appeared on the Boydton plank road. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 16, 1864. Lieutenant STRYXER: Holman reports all quiet this p. m. lie intercepte(l the foll6wing messages: OcTOBER 164.50 p. m. Colonel .B[uEx~r]: pieces of artillery have just passed open space going toward front in Chester- field. They came from direction of Bermuda Hundred. .1. A. S., At C. (Same to A. B. Page 247 CHAP. LIV.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 247 OCTOBER 169.30 a. la. Colonel B[RENT]: The enemys camp to the left of open space to our left of Cobbs has been removed. Cnn-boat above pontoon. J. A. S., At C. (Same to A. B.) Ocroni~n 1612.20 p. m. Colonel B[RENT]: One regiment of infantry drilling in open space to onr left of Cobbs. About 400 head of cattle jnst passed open space going to the fl-out in Chesterfield. At C. (Same to A. B.) Jordan reports a new fort in progress about thirty rods to our left of the one reported yesterday. It is snialler than the other. No change this p. m. P. A. TAYLOR, Capta#n (Utd Si~nal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October iG, 18646.30 p. rn. Lent. XV. S. STRYKER, Adjutant: Captain Thickstun and Sergeant Carother~ report all quiet this p. in. P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTE S SECOND ARMY Coups, October 16, 1864. Lient. W. S. STRYKER: General Hancock saw a rocket thrown up this evening from near Meades Station. He wishes to know if it was from any of the signal corps. Have you authorized or do you know of any rockets being sent up last night or this evening? P. A. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Coups, October 16, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Af{iutant- General: There has been no change in my line since last report. Firing was kept up against the enemys new works at irregular intervals dunn the night. Four deserters eune in during the nightthree were from Harris brigade and one from Wilcoxs old. They had nothing new. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- ()enerd Page 248 248 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS AuMY OF TILE POTOMAC, October 16, 186412 m. (Sent 12.30 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK: Major Michier will to-day make an examination in reference to the subject of your dispatch of yesterday. I am inclined to the opinion the euemy~s works on the left bank of the Appomattox are defensive and erected with a view to guard gainst a movement on our part in that direction. An idea very generally prevails, derived from the reports of deserters, contrabands, and refngces, that the enemy are preparing to abandon their lines around Petersbnrg south of the Appomnattox. Though not yielding myself to this opinion, yet if ammy such intention either exists or has been mooted, it would be a legitimate consequence on their part to strengthen their works both above and below Peters- burg on the left bank, as the result of such a withdrawal would undonbtedly be followed by an attempt on our part to cross the river. Major Michier is directed to examine such parts of the river as would offer facilities foi crossing and see what works, if any, on our part are necessary to check any such moycineut. 0-EG. G. MEADE, u1ft~or- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 16, 1864. (Received 9.30 p. in.) General HUMPLIREYS, Chief of Staff: A man caine over from tIme enemy to-night claiming to belong to the band of the Fifth Michigan Cavalry. He says he was captured near Spotsylvania about the 15th of May and has escaped once or twice. Finally he got on rebel dress ~mnd was conscripted and sent here to the Twenty-fifth South Carolina. He does not appear to have much infor- mation. Says the enemy were fortifying at Danville when he passed through; also that, as far as he could judge, the troops opposite are in a denmoralized and despondent condition. He has seen the gallery of the mine reported, and says they are still at work on it, but he does not know whether it is more thamin a countermine. To-night just at dark, as I w as riding in rear of the Dunn house, a rocket was thrown up from a hollow not far off, so as to show plainly to the other side of the river. I was unable to find out anything about it. It is also re- ported to me by officers that one was thrown up last night from tile rear of Fort Rice or Sedgwick. My signal officers know nothing of it. I mention it to you, not understanding it myself. WINFI) S. HANCOCK, Major- Genc al, HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 16, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, A8sistant Adjutant- Genercd, SecOnd Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has - occurred on the line during the past twenty-four hours. Lieutenan Page 249 OEn. I,vj CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TfrTION. 249 Boder continues to fire during the night on the enemys new work in front of Fort XcOilvery and reports that he annoys the enemys work. ing parties very much. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, it*r, Commanding. HDQzs. ARULLENY BRIGaE, SECOND AnY Cone, Lient. Jon W. BODEN, ~~& *be 16, 1864. Commanding. Battery K, Fourth U. & Artillery: LIEUTENANT: The major commanding instructs me to inform you that he directs you to keep up an irregular fire on the work the enemy are erecting in your front as heretofore ordered, and to continue this fire every night until further orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. 1). EDDY, Acting mutant A4jutant-General.. HuaDQUARTENS THIRD DIvISIoN, SECOND CORPS, NaYS. OANNCRos October 16,1864. Aaeistant 4Jntant- General, Second Cosy.: Knox: I have the honor to report that the breast-work built to connect Fort Sedgwick with Fort Davis, in direct line parallel with the plank road, has been nearly finished last night, and I do not see any ~tion to tear it don and make the connection in a different-way, as directed by the ms~jor-general commanding Second Corps. I have waited at Fort Sedgwick for Captain Benyaurd1of the EngineerCorps, and left word for himthat I would like to see him at my headquarters,. but he has not reported so far. He is the officer who took upon him- self.toaltertheplansapprovedat~andtohavetheworkmadein the most useless, not to-say objectionable, way. I respectfully request, th~f~ that ~tive ord~be~vento~the work l~eled, and a new connection built between the battery on the right of the plank road and the breast-works already existing across the nearest point of woods, as intended at t[rst I am, very respectfully, your obedient ser~~ B. DE BLAND, Brigadier-General of Volanteere. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY Cone, October 16, 18649 a. a. Brig. Gem. Sb WaLUMS:. I have the hone to report that nothing unusual transpired in front of this corps yesterday or during the night It was very quiet during the last twenty-four hours. A detail of 600 men was at work yester- day on the new redoubt in General Griffins front Respectfully, S. W. OBAWFOBD Page 250 250 OPEflTIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C [CHAP. LW. SnoIAL OuDns, HEADQuAETns Firm Ann Cons, No.258. 5 October 16, 1864. The following disposition ordered, and will be at once carried into effect: L Brigadier-General Griffin will extend his line from where it con- nects with the Nintl~ Corps to a point half way between the Squirrel Level road and the Vaughan road. II. Brigadier-General Ayres will hold the line from General Griffins right to Fort WadswortW IlL Brigadier-General Baxter will hold Fort Wadsworth and the line from thence to Battery 24. IV. The garrisons of Forts Wadsworth and Dushanewill be reduced to 300 men each. A small force of two companies from the Third Divis- ion will be stationed at Fort Davison. By command of Brigadier-General Crawford: FRED. T. WOKE, Assistant A4Intant4feaeraL HEADQuARTERs NUITH Ann Cons, October 16, 1864 Brigadier-General Wnmxs: I have the honor to report all quiet along my lines last night. Five men are reported as having deserted from Second Division, this corps. JNO.G.PARKE, *4w-GeneraL HEADQUARTfls SECOND DIvTsIoN, CAVALRY Cons, October 16,1864. .XaJ. Get A. A. Htixpnays, Chief of ~ Amy of the Potomac: I have the honor to report that a scouting party sent last night to Templds, on the plank road, fond in that vicinity about seventy-five of the enemys cavalry. The enemy generally have a picket-post at that point The officer commanding the regiment on picket, from which the scouting party was sent reports that the rebel pickets were driven off and his party remain a Temples ntil after daylight. Nothinj new on any other portion of the cavalry line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MoM. GREGG Brigadier-General of Volunteer., Commanding Second Division. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIvIsIoN, CAvArax Cons, Brig. Gen. S. WnsAxs, October 16,1864. Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac: GEmAL: I have the honor to report that the Twenty-hut Penn- sylvania Cavaltyis mounted and will join this division to-day. I there- fore request that another regiment be sent to report at the depot near City Point. I would recommend that the Twenty-fourth New York be sent If It can be as well spared as any other regiment. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Brigadier-General of Volunteers, D. MoM. GBEGGz Commanding Second Dimelon Page 251 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 251 hEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, October 16, 18647 p. m. Capt. JOHN B. MAITLAND, Asst. Adjt. Gem. Second Brig., Second J)iv., Cavalry Corps: CAPTAIN: In obedience to orders l-eceiVe(i from Colonel Smith, I directed Captain Snyder to take his squadron and move down the plank road to the Proctoi house and find out what force was in that vicinity. He found no pickets on his way out, but a heavy blockade just this side of the forces in the hollow. It was dark when [he] arrived there, and he went ito farther. On his return, soon after he had passed the road leading off to the right, he was attacked by a small party coin- ing in on that ioad. Several shots were exchanged, but no casualties. He reports ito indic tions of a 1 rge force in that vicinity. Respectfully, yours, J. K. ROBISON, Lieutenant- Colon el, Corn dy. Si~ teenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. I)EPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF TI-IE JAMES, No. 294. ) In the Field, October 16, 1864. I. Six companies of the Forty-first U. S. Colored Troops, having renorted for (luty in this department, Till proceed to Deep Bottom ali(i rel)ort to Colonel Rand, Fourth Massachusetts Cavalry, commanding at that j)oint, relieving the One hundredth New York Volunteers. The One hundredth Jew York olunteers, on being relieved, will proceed to the front and report to Brevet ilajor-General Terry, comm nding Tenth Army Corps. * * * ;- * * * By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIEADQUA TERS A~ MIES OF TH UNITED STATES, October 16, 1864. Major-Geuer~ I JEITZEL: The liente mant-general commanding directs me to sa,y that, having been first assigned according to your brevet rank as major-general, you will take comun ud of the Army of the James in General Butlers absence. C. B. OOMSTOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-dc- Camp. CITY POINT, VA., October 16, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: The Secretary of X ~ar and myself will start immediately for Aikens Landing. We take no horses with ns, and therefore request you to meet us at the landing. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Ueneral Page 252 252 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [Oar. U~ HuAriQuArr.uus EIGHTNTH ARMY Coups, October 16, 1864. Liout. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Your dispatch received; I start at once for Aikens Landing. G. WElTZEL, Brevet Mqfor4.feneraL DuTCH GAP, VA., October 16, 1864. Col. H. L. AnnoT, & ege Artill.ry: Commanding CoLonL: I have the honor to report considerable Coehorn 1irix~gby theenemy to-day; no damage done. With your consent shall place Lieu- tenant Pardee, assisted by Lieutenants Lewis and Woodruff in charge of the work at Coxs Hill, and remain at Dutch Gap mysel) until the nainent is entirelyremoved. They areall competent, faithM officers, ad Ican visit the fort once or twice a day in person. Very respectfiilly, your obedient servant9~ H. PIERCE, Captain, Ant Oonnect.cvt Artillery. HDQRs. DEPT. oi~ VIRGINiA AND NORTH CAROLINA, Major-General d~ October 16, 18649.18 p. m. General Butler went this evening to Fort Monroe, leaving a written order for me to take command of this army duuinghis absence. Beli~v- lug that you ranked me, I telegraphed to General Grant about it. He directs me to take command, saying that! now rank you because Iwas assigned to duty in my brent rank before you were. I accordingly assume command. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major-GeneraL HDQRS. DEPT. OP VaGInA AND NORTH CAROLINA, October 16,1864. (Received 10.20 p. in.) Major-General TERRY Tenth lagree with you in all your views, and sincerelr hope you will appeal the matter andhave It settled. I stated theseviewsto General Butler In person and to General Grant by telegraph, but both decided other- wise. You understand hilly thatl feel that I a thus placed in a very disagreeable positioii. G. WEITZEL, Brevet AMjor-General. HEADQuARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS Lieut. ~ ~. ~. SMITH, I. the Field, Ya., October 16,1864. A& tat A4jntant4#enera Army of the Jams.: CoLout: The Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers Is a regiment whose history does great honor to the Stats which sen Page 253 (1w. LIv.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 258 it to the field. For discipline and courage it has been equaled by few, surpassed by none of We regiments with which I have served. It is now very much reducedin numbers, and wilibe still further reduced by the iration of the term of service of the men. I know of no pros- becto i receivingrecruits. Itseemstomethatitwouiilbea great misfortun6 that such a regiment should disappear, for I believe that one man placed in it and imbued with its spirit would be of more value than two men placed in maN regiments, even among those which are called good. I earnestly desire that an effort should be made to fill its ranks, and for that p I recommend that VoL F. A. Osborn be detailed to proceed to husetts to confer with the local authori- tiesandtakesuchmeanstoprocuremenashemayflndtobebest. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. H. TERRY, Brevet If Ijor-Generai, Oosusaewlksg. HnDQUARTnS FIRST DIvISION, TENTH Ant Cons, Bqfore Richmond, F.., October 16,1864. VoL IL If. PLMsnD, Commending Third Brigade: CoLoREL: The brigadier~general commanding directs thatyou throw up a new line of.works from the right Sank of the redan you are now working on to the angle in front of the One hundredth New York Vol- unteers, thereby cutting off the salient at4ihe road which passes out at your front.. You will leave a roadway as at present, using your own Judgment in the work. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ClUB. A. CARLETON, Captain and Aeefrtant Adjnt.nt-Oener.L HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvISIoN, TENTH Ar Cons, In the Field, fli., October 16, 1864. VoL JAns SHAw, Jr., Commanding Seventh U. & Colored ffroope: CoLONEL: I am directed by the brigadier-general commanding to call your attention to the following extract from your report of the oper atlons of your command on the 29th of September last: Iwasthendlrectedhythe commandlngtoform Inright Intoline oath. rlghtoftheroadand In a Mon oblique toit,a slight descentin the pond partially covering the line, then to charge ad take a earth-work saute three- quarters of a mile In our front. Before the line was toned this order we counter- manded, ad Iwe diricted to send out four companies a skirmishers for thu same purpose. Thebrigadier-general commanding has no recollection of having con. termandedthe orderflrstmentioned byyou. The only subsequent order from him was Cven you by Captain Bailey, his assistant adjutant- general. Captain Bailey made a memorandum. The following is a copy: The general commanding directs you to advance with yourwhole force ad attack the work In your front, which lv firing. Yen ~il throw forward four couxpanles of your command a skirmishers. ScePartJ,p.772 Page 254 264 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Gun. fl% I a also directed to call your attention to the following extract from your report of operations on the 80th of S~ptember: AtLSOp.mweagslnmovothelefttot& esU EIghteenthOor~, taking position between a battery on our right andextending to the left, opposite the house. General Birneys orders to you were to relieve the left of General Paine?s command, of the Eighteenth Corps, taking position in the trenches on the right of the Forty-fifth U. S. Colored Treops. The position held by you as described in your report was near the extreme right of General Paines line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,. M. BAILEY, Captain and Assistant A4jutant-GeneraL HDQRS. PROVISIONAL BRIGADE, ARMY OP THE JAnS, DEnNS rn Bnxuna. HUNDRED, VA., October 16, 1864. Lient. C. H. CURTIS, Tkirteentli New Hampshire Volunteers: LIEUTENANT: 1 am directed..by M%jor-General Bader, commanding Depaitment of Virginia and North Carolina, to thank you personally, in his name, for the vi~ilance~1~romPtness~ and energy displayed by you in causing the arrest of one idder, who obtained access to our lines ~qpa~sing himself off as a mi~jor in the service of the United States. Under the pretense of securing and sending home tho remains of a gallant officer who fell in the charge upon Fort Harrison, from whose afflicted fatijer he had received ioo for that purpose, he bad devoted himself industriously to acquainting himself with the distribution of our forces and the position and armament of our batteiies. From the shifts he resorted to, now refresenting himself as belonging to a certain regiment, now ~on duty in charge of a portion of the line, with sword and sash on, to delude the unsuspecting, we have reasontobelieve that he designed evil to our cause. This has been averted by your timely action. Being on duty in the quartermasters department, and not supposed tobe giving particular attention to the action of officers apparently on duty, our shrewdness in detecting this imposter, if not a traitor and spy, Is all the more commendable. It is with real pleasure, therefore, that I tender you the approbation and warm thanks of General Butler, and congratulate you upon the favorable notice your services have received from department headquarters. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 3. H. POTTER, Colonel Twejfth Hew Hampshire Volunteers, Comdg. Brigade. HDQRS. DEPT. OP VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLUIA, In the Field, October 16,1864. (Received 9.20 p.m.) Brigadier-General fluTz: In accordance with orders from Lieutenant-General Grant 1 hereby assume command of this ny-during General Butlers temporary - absence. G. WEITZEL, Breuct fljor-Gesera Page 255 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 255 FORTRESS MONROE, VA., October 16, 18643 a. m. (Received 7.10 a. ui.) Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Was hinytori, N. C.: Have just arrived. Find dispatches, one from General Thomas, two from Stevenson, one front Angur. Shall proceed immediately to City Point. F. M. STANTON, & eretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., October 17, 1864. Major- General MEADE: The Secretary of War and Secretary of the Treasury, with a number of other gentlemen, will leave here for your headqnarters at 9.30 a. m. this morning. 17. 5. GRANT, J~ieuteaatt- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 17, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Deserter front Forty-fourth North Carolina, ~ brigade, of ileths division, came into the lines of the Ninth Army Corps last evening. Reports no change in the enemys position on their right. He blingk a repetition of the runiot- that all or part of Whitings division has lately arrived at Stony Creek. Can give no facts to substantiate it. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. ]3ABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 17, 186-1. Major FISHER: Carothers reports all quiet; no change. Jordan reports a camp of abont two regiments infantry southwest of city disappeared last night. Workino- on new fort last night, bnt not this a. m. THIC KST UN. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 17, 18644 .30 p. m. Captain PAINE: About 200 men were drilling during the a. in. near the fort ~n Boyd- ton plank road; 2 p. in. a train of five wagons moved westward on Boydton plank road; otherwise no movements have been visible from this station. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant Page 256 256 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 17, 18615.30 r. m. Captain DAVIS: At 8 a. in. about twenty-five beeves were driven westward on Boyd- ton plank road; at 9 a. in. a large working party was engaged con- structing a very strong abatis before works near Boisseans house; 2 P. in. a train of five wagons passed westward on Boydton plank road. About 200 men are drilling near fort on Boydton plank road. J. L. PRAY, & rgcant. SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAL STATION, October ii, 18646 p. m. Captain DAVIS: A party of about thirty men have been at work on enemys fortifica- tions about half a mile east of toll-gate on Boydton plank road. At 10 a. m. observed a train of sixteen wagons moving westerly on Boyd- ton plank road. No farther changes noticed. - SLEEPER, Sergea4t. FRONT OF FORT HOWARD, October 17, 18646 p. m. Capt. C. L. DAVIS: No change in enemys lines on this front observed this day. Twenty wagons seen moving east and west on the public road to-day. All quiet in enemys camps. - C. G. AIKEN, AS~ergeafl t. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 17, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that the signal stations along onr front report all quiet this afternoon. The station near the Church road reports that at 9 a. in. a large working party was engaged con- structing a very strong abatis before work near Boisseans house on Duncan roa(l. No other changes are reported. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. STRYKER, Acting Chief 8ignal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 281. October 17, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. The Twenty-fourth Regiment New York Cavalry, now dismounted and serving as infantry in the Ninth Army Corps, will proceed with a Page 257 CHAP. LIT.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 257 little delay as practicable to City Point, anti report at the dislliOuhltCd cavalry camp near that place for the purpose of being mounted, and the regiment is transferred to the Second Cavalry Division. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 17, 1864. General WILLIAMS: There is nothing new to report this morning. The enemy continued work last night on the fort in front of MeGilvery. WINFD S. HANCOCK, ]Jfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 17, 186410 a. m. (Sent 10.20 a. in.) Major-General HANCOCK: I am just advised that the Secretary of War is about visiting my headquarters. I shall be pleased to see you here at oiice. if wc Live left on your arrival I will endeavor to notify you of our movements that you may join us. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. P. S.Probably by telegr phing you can~join the train at Meades Station, near my old headquarters. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 17, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant-General, & cond Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that lire was kept up last night as usual from Fort MeGilvery on the work which the enemy is putting up in its front. It was unusually quiet yesterday on the lines. No artillery firing except that above mentioned. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 17, 1864. Lient. JOHN W. IROnER, Commanding Battery K, Fourth U. ~. Artillery: LIEUTENANT: The major commanding directs me to call your atten- tion to the order sent you last night directing you to keep up fire oii the work in yonr front every night until further orders. No firing has 17 R HVOL XLII, PT II Page 258 258 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. yet been heard to-night (7.30). He desires an explanation of this, and that the order be strictly carried out iu future. The time when the fire is most necessary is before the moon rises. Very re~pectfu11y, your obedient servant, U. D. EDDY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- Genera . HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 17, 1864. Maj. SEPTiMUS CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to request that au engineer officer be directed to sink shafts in Forts McGilvery and Stedman, with a view of detecting any attempt at mining by the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NELSON A. MILES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH AR IV CORPS, October 1/, 18649 a. m. Brig. 0-en. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that everything was nnnsually quiet in my front yesterday and last night. One deserter from Sixteenth North Carolina was received and forwarded. The followiiig dispositions were made yesterday in the positiou of the troops of this corps: The First Division to ocenpy the line f1~0~n the right of the Ninth Corps to a point half way between Squirrel Level road and Vaughan road. The Second Division to extend from the right of the First Divisidn to Fort Wads- worth. The Third Division to garrison Forts Wadsworth and Dushane, and occupy the line from Fort Wadsworth to Battery 24; also to keep a post of two companies in Fort Davison. For Brigadier-General Crawford, commanding corps: FIXED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Conps, October 17, 1864. General S. W. CRAWFORD: We have just finished a new redoubt on the right of my front line near tbe junction with your left. The battery intended for this redoubt was posted a few days since in Vaughan redoubt and one between it and Fort Dushane. Being short of artillery for the occupation of all works along th line, I would be obliged to you if you could relieve, this battery so that I may put it in our front line. Colonel Tidhall, our chief of artillery, has conferred with Colonel Wainwright on the sub- ject, who thinks that a battery can be spared for the purpose. JNO. (3-. PARKE, Major- General Page 259 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 259 GENERAL ORDERS, UD QES. FIRST l)~YISIoN, FIFTH CORPS, No. 55. October 17, 1864. The general commanding is pleased to make known to the command that the appointment of brigadier-general by brevet has been conferred by the President upon Col. E. M. Gregory, Ninety-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Col. James Gwyn, One hundred and eighteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanding, respectively, the Second and Third Brigades in the action of the 30th nitimo. These individual marks of distinction are not only worthily bestowed, but are evidence that the gallantry of our little command has been appreciated. By command of Brigadier-General Griffin: GEG. MONTEITII, Assistant Adjutant- (3 emera 1. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 17, 186410 a. m. Major-General PARKE: I have just been notified that the Secretary of War is about to visit these headquarters. He may perhaps desire to inspect the lines. You will, therefQre, please notify your several commands to be ready and appear under arms in the vicinity of their camps and the trenches. More specific notice of time will be given if practicable. GEG. U. MEADE, iViajor-General. (Same to Brigadier-General Crawford.) LIEADQUARTE7RS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 17, 18642 p. rn. Major-General PARKE, Comman ing Ninth Corps: The major-general commanding directs me to say that there is no need of keeping your command longer under arms, as the Secretary of War has returned to City Point. S. F. BAItSTOW, - Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS A~u~ OF THE POTOMAC, October 17, 1864. Brig. Gen. P. MoM. GREO~, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: In answer to your letter of the 15th in stant, I am in- structed by the commanding general to say that you are authorized to organize your division into three brigades whenever, in your judgment, the effective strength of the division will warrant such an arrange- ment. I am, very respectfully, yOur obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 260 260 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 17, 1864. Lient. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The following message just received from Cobbs Hill: Ten freight and three passenger cars loaded with troops toward Richmond; regu- lar train. VAN VLECK, Lieatenant and Acting Signal Officer Very respectfully, your obedient servaut, H. R. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 17, 1864. Lieut. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer at Cobbs Hill reports: Six passenger and five freight cars heavily loaded with troops toward Petersburg regular train; the train from Petersburg passed at the usual time this a. in.; one train to Petersburg last night; 11 a. in. three freight and two passenger cars with a few passengers to Petersburg; 2 p. nii. three freight and two passenger cars with a few passengers toward Richmond. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Ii. CLUM, Captain and Chif Signal Officer. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 17, 1864. Lientenamt.Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ilidqrs. Army of the James: Is General Order 132* designed to place my whole command of the Siege Artillery nuder General Graham, or, as heretofore with General Ord, only that portion in the district named? One company, First Connecticut Artillery, is north of the James, and seven others are with the Army of the Potomac. Since my first orders on May 17, I have reported the whole Siege Artillery direct to department headqnarters, and the officers commanding snbdivisions of my command have reported their subdivision to their local commanders. The same sys- tem is used for my command serving with the Army of the Potomac. It greatly facilitates business. I would respectfully request that it may continue as heretofore. Please answer as soon as convenient. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. DUTCH GAP, VA., October 17, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report the usual amount of Coehorn firing by the enemy to-day, with the eustomary uninjurions effect. Very respectfull5T, your obedient servant, H. II. PIERCE, ____________________________ Captain, First (You uceticat Artillery. Of October 15, p. 243 Page 261 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 261 HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 17, 1864. (Received 7.50 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel S]~IITH: The following dispatch is sent for information of the major-general commanding: SIGNAL STATION OF OBSERVATION, in front of the left of the Tenth Army Corps Line, October 17, 18647 p. m. Lieut. WILLIAM P. SUREYE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: Signal officer at the above station reports the enemy active in strengthening and increasing the numl)er of their lines of defense. Wagons loaded with timber are con- tinually moving to a formidable-looking work located to our left of Fort Johnson. New breast-worlis have been thrown up in the rear of Fort Johnson and fronting toward James River. An embrasure has been cut in the traverse on the right in Fort Johnson, and a stockade for sharpshooters is also being erected in that work. Another line of abatis has 1)een made, running ont from this fort at about an angle of 45 degrees from a general line of their works in our front. One gun visible at Fort Gilmer. A battery of four pieces, four horses to each piece, caine down New Market road at 2 p. m. and took position behind the new breast-work near the road. The line of fire of these pieces in their present position is a flanking one. About 200 negroes have been at work all day on the line of breast-work running from Fort Gilmer to New Market road. Three six-horse and three four-horse wagons with iufantry guard from Richmond to our left, via the New Market road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, PAUL BRODIE, First Lieutenant, Signal Corps. A. H. TERRY, Brevet Major. General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, October 17, 18647.55 p. m. Major-General TERRY, Tenth Corps: Does Brodies dispatch indicate to you anything more than that the rebels are strengthening their position in your front ~ G. WEJTZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 17, 1864. (Received 8.30 p. in.) Major-General WEITZEL: Nothing more than that. For several nights past he has made reports of what has been seen from the station, and I have forwarded them whether they seemed to me important or unimportant. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. PROVISIONAL DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 1. ) In the Field, Va., October 17, 1864. In compliance with General Orders, No. 132, headquarters Depart- ment of Virginia and North Carolina, Army of the James, I assum Page 262 262 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N C. [CHAP. LIV & mmand. of all the troops l)elongmg to this department occupying the line between the James and Appomattox Rivers, or stationed on the south bank of the last-named river, including the garrison of Redoubt Converse and the First Connecticut Artillery. All official communica- tions and reports previously forwarded to department headquarters will pass through these headquarters. R. Dale Benson, first lieutenaiit and aide-dc-camp, is announced as acting assistant adjutant-general. CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CITY PoINT, October 18, 1864. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: An order is now being issued attaching all the new organizations now serving with General Beuham to the Army of the Potomac. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 18, 1864. Major-General HUMPITREYS, Chief of Stajf: GENERAL: Four deserters received to-day represent Ransoms aiuid Gracies brigades, of Johnsons division, and Cookes and Archers bri- gades, of Heths division. The position of their brigades is shown on the returned map. Two regiments of Wises brigade are detailed for build- ing two forts in the rear of Ransoms brigade, on which they are at work at present. All the brigades are located on the returned map with con- siderable exactness, excepting, perhaps, the brigades of Davis, MacRae, and Lane. They are, however, approximately located. No reliable news from Whitings division. It cannot have arrived in this vicinity withoat some definite information concerning it by this time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. Lieutenant STRYKER: Jordan, Strong, and Holman report all quiet. The same reported from Sergeant Carothers last night, but w~ s left in my tent and I did not notice it until this morning. I. THICKSTUN, Captain ((lid Acting Signal Officer Page 263 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 263 JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 16, 18(J.15..JO r. m. Major FISHER: All quiet. A. If. (4AROTHEIiS], /erq((t nt. P. S.Jordan reports nothing new to-(iay hun Nveiy house FiIK teen w~gonS were reporteti movin north trout Petersbui A t the Crater men very busy moving back and forth, appaucuttly caiTYiV$. something, and fresh dirt being thrown np. TuCKS I2U~N ( (1j)t(U U. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE I~OTOMAC, October 18, 1861. Major-General HUMPIIREYS, Chief of Staft: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that the signal officer with the Fifth Corps has condensed the tUlowing from the reports from the sta- tions in- front of that corps: The enemys line of breast-works along the Duncan road, near .1. Boisseans house, has been abandond, the men in it moving forward about 250 yards to a new line on the right of a heavy work in front of that house, moving the ahatis from the old line to front of new one. Tbe enemys picket-line near the Fisher honse was relieved at 5 p. m. by a force of 150 men, and each post has six men in it. The usnal numberof wagons and horsemen passing on Boydton plank road. Unusually quiet in all the enemys camps on this front to.day. Captain. The other stations report all quiet this afternoon. The following messages were intercel)ted: 10.25 A. M. Colonel B [RENT]: After my report was sent oft last night the following movements were observed: Ten wagons passed going toward Fort Harrison; fifteen goin ~ in opposite direction. Three pieces of artillery passed going to front on the north side of the James. This morning, on account of fog, I could make no observations. Sergeant, at C. (Same to A. B.) 1 P. M. Colonel B.: Four pieces of artillery drilling in field rear of B ttery 5. Ten wagons passed through same field going to City Point. .1. Q. E., At D. (Same to A. B.) 1 am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. SThYKER, Acting Chi /ignal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 282. 5 October 18, 1864. * * * :- * 5. iL3vt. Brig. Gen. B M Gico-ory having iepurtcd at th se head- qnarters in compliance with part ol Special Orders, No. 107 of Octobe Page 264 2(34 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. 18, 1864, from headquarters Armies of the iTnited States, is assigned to duty with the Fifth Corps, and will report for further instructions to the commander of that corps. * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, As8istant Adpttant- General. CITY POINT, October 18, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS: Since my report of the 10th instant the Two hundredth Pennsylvania Volnuteers has been ordered to report to General Butler, commanding, and left on the night of the 13th. Three companies of the Eighth Delaware reported on the 11th, with 254 men and 9 officers; five com- panies of the Sixty-first Massachusetts reported on the 12th, with 468 men and 16 officers; five companies of the Thirty-ninth New Jersey reported on the 17th, with 490 men and 17 officers; six companies of the One hundred and eighty-eighth New York reported to-(Iay, the 18th, with 430 men and 20 officers; making in all about 4,400 men, besides the Engineer Brigade. II. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, October 18, 1864. Assistant Adjutant-General. - No changes in the disposition of the troops of this command since last report. WINF~l) S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. General WILLIAMS: GENERAL: Fort Blaisdell having beeii finished, a small detail from the regiment in that work can be sent to complete Fort Patrick Kelly, if some one is sent to direct it. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. [IndorsemeiPz.] HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, October 19, 1864. Respectfully returned. Captain Dexter, Fiftieth New York Volunteer Engineers, has been ordered to repair to Fort Patiick Kelly to take charge of the coinple- tion of that work. He will require a (letail of 400 men for two days, and will be ready to commence work this afternoon. N. MICHLER, Major o~ Engineers, U. IS. Army Page 265 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 265 JIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS October 18, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that about noon yesterday the enemys mortar batteries opened on Fort Sedgwick and Battery No. 20. This fire was replied to with rapidity and accuracy by our mortars at that point, we appearing to have a decided advantage on this part of the line. About 8 p. m. the mortar batteries at Fort Sedgwick, Bat- tery 20, and Fort Morton were ordered to open, and for an hour the firing was quite heavy along the line. Lieutenant Roder continues to fire from Fort MeGilvery on the work being put up in his front with evident effect, as no increase in size is visible, and it seems to be much torn up by our projectiles. The enemy reply heavily. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Corn manding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 18, 1864. Maj. S. -CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant. General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that Fort Blaisdell is fully com- pleted and ready to be armed with artillery. Fort I~atrick Ke]]y is not finished. The parapets are but partly constructed on two sides, and the work seems to be abandoned for the present. 1 respectfully submit that the Fortieth New York Volunteers may easily furnish a fatigue detail to finish the work, as there is nothing more to be done at Fort B]aisdell. On the front line, the new defensive line in the rear of Fort Sedgwick is nearly finished, and extends to the left side of the plank road so as to enlarge that part of the works and to add considerably to its strength for defense. There are still some bomb-proofs to be leveled outside, which will be done, I have no doubt, as soon as the in- trenchment is completed. The straight line from Fort Davis to Fort Sedgwick has been leveled last night down to the left of the plank road, according to orders from Major-General Hancock. To-night the connection between Iticketts battery and the breast-works on the right will be munch advanced, if not completed altogether. Respectfully submitted. H. DE TROBRJAND, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 18, 18649 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance transpired in my command yesterday or during the night. A detail of 600 men were at work during the day on the new redoubt on the left of Griffins (livision. S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 266 26(3 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CuLt. LIV~ HEADQUARTERS NINTH CoRPS, October 18, 1864k Brigadier-General WILLIAMS: Nothing unusual along our lines. Three deserters caine in during the 1)ast twenty-four hours from the First, Seventh, and Fourteenth Teii- nessee. JNO. G. PARKE, ]lIajor- Uenera 1. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, No. 205. Peebles House, Va., October 18, 1861. 1. In pursuance of paragraph 5, Special Orders, No. 264, current series, from headquarters Army of the Potomac, the detachment of the Th~d New Jersey Cavalry is hereby relieved from escort duty at these headquarters and will at once proceed, under charge of Lieut. J. S. Hough, to join their regiment serving in the Middle Milit ry Division. The transportation of the detachment will l)c turned in to Maj. W. H. ID. Cochrane, asK istant quartermaster Ninth Army Corps. The quam-- termasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. - * * * * * * By command of Maj. Gen. John G. Parke: JNO. C. YOUNGMAN, Assistctnt Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Near Poplar Spring Church, Va., October 18, 1861. in compliance with provisiolls of paragraph II, General Orders, No. 15, current series, headquarters Army of the Potomac, establishing the organization and equipments of pioneer parties below citC(I, each brigade commander will at once make selections from his command, of an officer and non-commissioned officers and men, in the proportion required by orders above named, and will forum them into a pioneer party for duty with his brigade. On completion of the organization, he will forward to these headquarters a report of his aetiomi, giving strength of his party, number and kind of tools on hand, and number of tools required to complete the equipment. Especial judgment will be exercised in the selection of the commissioned and non-comumnis- sioned officers. II. The following is established as the organization and equipment of the pioneer parties of this army. The unit of organization will be by brigade. In each brigade one man shall be selected for every fifty men eqnipped for duty iim it; for every ten men tims selected a corporal shall be detailed, and for every twenty a sergeant, and for each brigade, one lieutenant. For each divmsioim a ~rst lieutenant of old date, or a cal)tain, shall be detailed to command the pioneers of time (livisioll, who will be a mnemnber of tlme divisioim staff, a~md be furnished with a horse and equipments by the quartermasters department. The pioneers will be armed as they were in their regiments, and mnen ammd officers will be especially selected for fitness for the duty. rphey will be excused from all guard and picket duty, and from ordinary fatigue details. The tools will be furnished in the following proportiomms, viz, five-tenths, axes; three-tenths, shovels; two-tenths, picks; and be carried on pack Page 267 Oar. LIT.) CORRESPONDENCE, tTO.UNION. 267 mules during the marsh, each mule carrylnpthe tools for forty pioneers. The quartermasters department will provide the necessary mules an4 appropriate panniers for this service. Brigade and division command- ers are directed to give special attention to the prompt formation and, equipment of their pioneer parties. In camp, the pioneer parties will make the ordinary repairs to roads, build bridges, & c.; on the march, they will mote at the head of the infantry column and promptly put in order all parts of the route where artillery and wagons have to pass, or eir own command or troops to follow. By command of Brigadier-General Potter: SflL. WRIGHT, Aedetat S4jukstOemeraL SnouL OuDns, HDQRs. 2D BrnG., fr Div., Civ. Corns, No. 77. October 18,1864. 1. In pursuance of.General Orders, No. 15, from headquarters Second Cavalrj Division, dated October 18 1864, the following or nisations. are hereby detached and will report to the commapding officer of the Third Cavalry Bi~igade without delay: First Maine Cavalry and Twenty- first Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiments. 2. The fo]lowing-named officer is hereby relieved as acting provost- matshal, and will report to the commanding officer of the Third Cavalry Brigade for duty: Second Lieut L. H. Daggett, Company L, Fit Maine Cavalry. 9 t The command of.the Third CaK Bri ehavin4devolvedupofl CoL C.H. Smith, First Maine Cavalry, CoLK. Kerwin, irteenth Penn- sylvania Oavalry, will assuma command of thlsbrigade. By command of CoL C. H. Smith, commandin1 brigade: MArtLAND, Gaptaisi sad Aeelatat A4jutnt-GeswaL BALTIMoRE, October 18,1864. Ma~j. Get B. F. BuTLRR: The Secretary of War, two weeks since, directed me to repair from Washington toKentucky to bring to you 5,000 of the colored troops. I commenced organizing in that State about Jig. ~; regiments. Two of them, the first organized, and the number, whbn all join you, will be 5,500. Three of the regi- inents have detachments absent, but the will join in a few days. One regiment left here yesterday. Two others are here and will leave to-morrow. The fourth should be here to-morrow, the fifth the nest day, the sixth may boa week later, and will receive their additional equipmentshere. Physically they are the best I have organized, and I only regret they have not had more time for drill. I am satisfied they will do the work .ssiqned then. Separation from records will delay for a few days the appointment of officers already designated; still there will be several vacancids. Iwill furnish roster of officers. You will wish to make the subsequent appointments and, this I would greatly prefer. 1 expect to have the pleasure of seeing youin afew days. L. THOMAS. A4jutsAut4& hseraI Page 268 2G8 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. MV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 18, 186410.10 a. m. (IReceived 10.30 a. in.) Colonel BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, City Point, Va.: I propose to disembark at Deep Bottom the colored troops coming to me. They will be there at a place easy of access, now healthy, and with good water and a fine place for drill. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 18, 186411.10 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: If you please to have one of your staff inspect our base hospital of the Eighteenth Corps at Point of Rocks, perhaps it will be seen that with small expense we can make a hospital that will serve all purposes of the field in connection with our hospital boats. It has provided for 3,000. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 18, 18649 p. m. Brigadier-General PATRICK, Provost-Marshal. General, City Point, Va.: Please send me fifty more rebel prisoners to put in Dutch Gap. So many of these are taking the 6ath of allegiance that I want to keep the numbers full. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 18, 1864. Lient. Col. GEORGE A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer stationed in froiit of the Tenth Army Corps reports for the day: One gun drawn by twenty animals on Osborne turnpike toward our left; proba- bly intended for the new work a little to the right and in front of Fort Harrison. The number of tents in his front is sensibly increased. On the line of breast-works between Fort Gilmer and New Market road a fatigue {arty of negroes is, as yester- day, at work. Wagons busily employed in hauling timber to this line. -Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, H. R. GLUM, Captain and Chif Signal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 297. ) In the Field, October 18, 1864. I. The commanding officer at Deep Bottom will direct the One hun- dred and fifteenth U. S. Colored Troops, and such other regiments of colored troops as may arrive hereafter, to encamp at Deep Bottom until further orders from, these headquarters Page 269 CHAP. LIV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 269 II. The commanding officer of the six companies of the Forty-first U. S. Colored Troops will report with his command to Brig. Gen. Wi1l~ lam Birney, commanding Third iDivision, Tenth Army Corps. III. So much of paragraph I of this order as reads One hundred and fifteenth U. S. Colored Troops is hereby amended to read One hundred and seventeenth U. S. Colored Troops. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Butler: ISRAEL IL SEALY, Assistant Adjutant- General. DUTCH GAP, V A., October 18, 1864. Col. II. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report but few shots from the enemy to-day. Mounted the second 100-pounder this p. in., and shifted the 4.5-inch guns to the firing trunuions. Have put the men in camp just outside the work for the present until the engineers have finished. Shall wait orders from Major Cook to open fire, I suppose. Major Lud- low was here to-day and yesterday, and wished me to do so forthwith; told him I did not deem it policy before the magazine was covered, and besides there was no ammunition for the pieces he desired to use. Couldnt the 8-inch mortars be removed on a barge ~ Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. II. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. IIEADQUAI~TERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1861. Brig. Geii. A. AMES, Commanding First Dtvtston: GENERAL: I think it would be well to cut roads from the intrench- ments on your front perpendicularly back to the New Market road, and as far as it has not already been done to make a wide road for the move- ment of troops parallel to and about 100 yards in rear of your liDe. I think that about four perpendicular roads would be enough. Please hurry forward as fast as possible the completion of your line, the con- struction of the abatis, and the slashing in its front, so that the tools may be disposable for work elsewhere. Very truly, yours, ALP. II. TERRY, l3revet Major- General, Commanding. IiDQRS. SECOND I3RJO-., SECOND Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., October 18, 1864. Fii~st Lient. W. P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Tenth Corps: LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that in obedience to orders from corps headquarters, I relieved Col. H. M. Plaisted, Elev~nth Maine Volunteers, as officer of the day yesterday morning. The picket Page 270 270 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. line along the en~ ire front was visited by me and found in good condi- tion, officers aild nien performing their (luties well. By direction of the commanding general all fires along the line werc ordered to be and were extinguishcd last eveniyig. I have reference to the line of pickets and not of intrenchments. Nothing unusual occnrred along the front of the corps during my tour. Camps are generally well policed and works being strengthened where necessary. Respectfully submitted. G. PENNYPACKER, Colonel Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, No. . Deep Bottom, Va., October 18, 1864. 1. In obedience to Special Orders, No. 297, headquarters Depart- ment of Virginia and North Carolina, Major Weld, commanding Forty- first U. S. Colored Troops, will march his regiment forthwith and report to Brig. Gen. William Birney, commanding Third Division, Tenth ~ Corps. 2. All details from the Forty-first U. S. Colored Troops are hereby relieved and will report to their regiment forthwith. By order of Col. Arnold A. Rand, commanding post: 0. A. HENDRICK, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. Mat Gen. B. F. BUTLER: The following is from Colonel Cole in regard to torpedoes: They are near the river yet. Two, I think, are good; one, very large, which I am yet unable to get entirely out (though near shore), but shall soou have proper hooks made,andthen think I can. G. WEITZEL, Brevet ]Iiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel KENSEL, Chief of AStaff, Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina: Colonel Cole says: I have sent my quartermaster to get the hooks made by to-morrow 10 a in. or 12 in., and thenthink I can raise it. I have dragged it within thirty yards or so of shore, but the bank is very steep. 1 broke all the wire and rope, so it is harmless. I leara from a deserter there is another 2,000-pound one lower down, hut froni want of proper drag hooks cannot yet find it. Will with new hooks. I hope to sneceed to- morrow. (}. WEITZEL, Brevet ]Ifajor- General. Page 271 CHAP. LIV.1 271 CORftESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 18, 1864li a. m. General KAUTz: I send you a marked article in the Richmond Euquirer,* which I think you had better read to your troops and ask them if they caut beat such cavalry as is therein described. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Mrs. Gays House, October 18, 18643.30 p. m. Major-General I3UTLER, Commanding: GENERAL: Your note and the Enquirer received. There has been no difficulty about the enemys cavalry, except to meet them, with us. It has been our fortune to be opposed to infantry, artillery, and breast- works, almost without exception. If you will engage to keep the in- fantry off us, we will try and take care of their cavalry. I have been quite unwell since I last saw you, but trust I shall be out again before any niovemeiit takes place. 1 send the requisition of the Fourth Wis- con sin Battery; requisitions for ordnance with an indorsement as to the state of the battery. Very respectfully, & c., AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 19, 186412 m. (Sent 12.10 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have nothing particular to report. The artillery firing last night was the shelling of the enemys working parties in front of our extreme right. I am going to-day to ride over the lines recently construc~d in front of City Point, after which, if not too late, I shall probably be at City Point. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. SPECIAL OnnEns, ~ HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 108. City Point, Va., October 19, 1864. I. The following-named regiments and detachments are hereWT assigned to the Army of the Potomac, and will immediately report to Maj. Gen. George G. Meade, commanding, fororders: One hundred and eighty-sixth New York Volunteers, Col. Bradley Winslow; Thirty- ninth New Jersey Volunteers, Colonel Wildrick~ One hundred and eighty-eighth New York Volunteers, Major Davison, six companies; Eighteenth New .Hampshire Volunteers, Capt. A. K. Potter, five coin- Not found Page 272 272 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. panies; Eighth Delaware Volunteers, Capt. R. J. bit, three compa- nies; Sixty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, Lieut. Col. C. F. Walcott, five companies. II. Capt. A. Webster, assistant quartermaster volunteers, is hereby assigned to special duty at these headquarters. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, As8istant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 19, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Five deserters have been forwarded to-day from Archers and Davis brigades, of beths division, and Gracies brigade, of John-. sons division. No change of the enemys position ou the part of the lines occupied by the above divisions. No knowledge of any arrivals from the north or south. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October ~9, 18649 a. m. Major FISHER: Sergeant Carothers reports all quiet and no changes in enemys camps or lines. Jordan reports all quiet. He thinks the new forts of enemy are for mortars, as he saw no sign of embrasures. THICKSTUN, Captain and Signal O~lcer. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 19, 1864. Major-Gelieral IIuMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that the signal stations along our front report all quiet in the enemys lines and no changes visible. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. SmYKEIt, Acting Chief Signal Officer. CHURch ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 19, 186410 a. m. Captaiii PAINE: About forty men were engaged at 8 a. m. laying wire obstructions l)efOre the enemys abatis near Boisseau~. Works lying between fort 30 degrees eaSt of north and lead-works are nearly evacuated. But few tents or men are yisible in that vicinity. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant Page 273 CRAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 273 CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 19, 18645.30 p. m. Captain PAINE: About 300 men have been drilling (luring the day iii th~ vicinity of fort on Boydton plank road. At 5 p. in. a large regiment of infantry appeared on parade in works near fort on Boydton plank road. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAL STATION, October 19, 18645.30 p. in. Captain DAVIS: Very quiet in the enemys lines on this front to-day. At 11.30 a. m. observed two pieces of light artillery on Boydton plank road near toll- gate moving east; artillery drawn by mnles. SLEEPER, Sergeant. FRONT OF FORT HOWARD, - October 19, 18646 p. in. Capt. C. L. l)AVIS: No change in enemys line on this front observed this day. A few wagons seen moving east and west on Boydton plank road. All quiet in enemys camps. C. C. AIKEN, Sergeant. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 39. October .19, 1864. The following instructions are published to correct existing irregu- larities iii the details made in this army for special service and to insure (treater accuracy in the reports and returns of the troops: I. None bnt corps and division commanders will be permitted to order details which will take officers or mcii from their appropriate duties in their brigades, regiments, or companies, unless these constitute inde- pendent commands. Soldiers detailed as company cooks are an excep- tion to this rule. 2. All orders for details for special service will be given in writing, and copies of such orders will, in all cases, be furnished the regimental or company commander concerned. 3. The detail of soldiers as clerks will be restricted as much as possible. It is believed that many men are permanently assigned to such duty whose services as clerks are but occasionally required. In such cases it is only necessary to excuse the men so employed from guard and fatigue duty, and they should not be accounted for a~ on special duty. 4. Whenever practicable all guards except provost guards will be relieved daily. 5~ When a soldier, while detailed from his company, is sent to a hospital the surgeon in charge will make an immediate report of the circumstances of the case to the regimental or company comnian(ler, so that the history of the soldier may be kept up. 18 H HVOL XLIT, PT 111 Page 274 274 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. ~. Ofticers and men on duty with a particular command, but who belong to a~ organization serving elsewhere in this army, will on the returns of such command be excluded from its strength and reported in red ink to prevent their being accounted for twice. 7. All offi6ers and men who are reported on special, extra, and daily (luty, or on detached service within the army, will be accounted for in figures on the back of the tn-monthly report rendered on the last day of each month in the manner iimdicated in the following form and the numbers given should correspond with those under the same heads on the face of the report. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAc, October 19, 186412 m. Brigadier-General BENHAM: I shall leave here at 12.30 on a train and get out either at 01(1 Court- House or the nearest station, where horses caii i)e got out of cars. I am coining to inspect your works and desire you would meet me on the line at the crossing of tbe railroad. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SEcOND ARMY CORPS, October 19, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMIJS CARNcROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corj)s: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that dnring yesterday fire was kept np at intervals on the new works the enemy are erecting in front of Fort MeGilvery and B ttery No. 9. During the night the Coehorn mortar l)attery in Battery No. 7 opened on the work in front of Fort MeGilvery at intervals, and Lieutenant Danchys Twelfth New York Battery and a section of mortars fired from Battery No. 9 on the new work in his front, for the purpose of annoying working parties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARI), iJft(jor, Commanding. HDQRS. CONSOLIDATED BRIG., 1ST i)iv., 2D ARMY CORPS, October 19, 1864. Capt. W 11. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Divisioa CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the two deserters from the Forty-third Alabama Regiment, sent forwa~d last night, came into our lines on the front of Fort Morton, and while on the way to the rear made some statement to the guard to the effect that they had been at work on a mine approaching our works not far from the point at wlmich they came in. I respectfully snbmit this fimet to the general com- in anding. Respectfully, GEG. N. MACY, (7oio n ci, (Join m (i ndiag (Jo nsolidated Brigade. Omitted Page 275 CuAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 275 GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. THIRD DIVISIoN, SECOND CORPS, No. 64. October 19, 1864. It is with profound regret that the brigadier-general commanding has to convey to this command the sad news of the death of Maj. Gen. D. B. Birney, after a brief illness, in Philadelphia. Nowhere such a lamentable loss will be more deeply felt than in this division, the glori- ous records of which are so much identified with the gallant services of the worthy successor of Kearny and Hooker. lIe died before the end of the struggle in which he took such a noble ahd conspicuous part; but his devotion to the country, his fidelity to duty, his gallantry in action, and his brilliant efforts for the triumph of the Union will remain among ns as an example to follow, while his personal qualities will endear his memory am.onb all those who served with him or under him, By command of Brigadier-General De Trobriand. J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant Adjutant- General. NOTE.The above will be read at the head of every regiment in the command. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 19, 18649 a. m, Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: I have the honor to report that all was quiet in front of this corps yesterday and during the night. No movement of the enemy percept- ible bcyond what was reported by the signal officers last evening. Six hundred men werc employed yesterday on the new redoubt on General Griffins left. For Brigadier-General Crawford , commanding: FRED. T. LOCKE Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 19, 1864. Major General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: GENERAL: My signal station on Chnrch road reports as follows: Works lying between fort 30 degrees east of north and. icad-works are nearly evac- uated; but few tents or men remain visible iii that vicinity. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Corn inanding Fifth Corps. (Same to Major-Qeneral I-Iumphre~ s2 CITY POiNT, October 19, 18646.50 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: I have just received information that the enemy are nnderminiug Fort Harrison. It would be well for General Weitzel to ascertain if this is so. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 276 276 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS, October 19, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: It is impossible to undermine Fort 1-Jarrison from the conformation of the ground. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ilfcjor--Genera 1, Commanding. PHILADELPHIA, October 19, 18641.30 p. m. Major.General BUTLER: Major-General Birney died at 10 p. ni. yesterday. Funeral, Friday, 2p.m. CHAS. H. GRAVES, Assistant Adjutant- General and Aide-dc- Camp. [Indorsement.] Forwarded for the information of Lieutenant-General Grant. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ilfajor- General, Gommanding. IN THE FIELD, October 19 1864. Hon. SIMON CAMERON: M~ DEAR SIR: Will you not come down and see me, wherever I may be, as soon as the election is over? I have something to say to you which I think may be for yours, mine, and the countrys bellefit, and who else do we care for? I congratulate the chairman on the success of the election. Let me know by telegraph when you intend to come. Yours, truly, BENJ. F. BUTLER. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIROINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 19, 1864. Lieut. Col. GEORGE A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer in front of Eighteenth Army Corps reports for the day as follows: Enemy clearing the woods in front of their rifle-pits on the left of Fort Johnson and placing abatis in front of Fort Henry. Palisades are being built in Fort Gil- mer. Negroes at work on same line as reported yesterday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. R. ChUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. IIDQR8. DEPT. OF VIRCINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF TILE CHIEF SIGNAL OFF1CER, October 19, 1864. Lient. Col. GEORGE A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer at James River tower reports for the day as follows: Three heavy gnns mounted in work to eneurys right of Coxs Ferry. Distance from ferry about 1,600 yards, direction from here (the tower) west-northwest, (listan Page 277 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPOM)ENCE, ETCTUNION. 277 bout one mile and a half. Enemy ~)lacing rail al)atis in front of rifle-pits connect- ing above aAd Coxs Ferry work. Think heavy guns have been mounted in work to their left of Coxs Ferry, as there is a screen of bushes where guns should be. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 19, 1864. (Received 7 p. in.) Col. H. L. ABBOT: Where is the 13-kwh mortar? Is it where it can control the Chester- field battery as well as near the Friend house? There s coinplaiiit from the Second Corps that the C[hesterfleldl battery is very aunoying~. II. J. HUINT., Brigadier- General. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 19, 18647 p. m. Brigadier-General HUNT, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The 13-inch mortar is quite effective upon the Chesterfield batteries. It can be placed where it is safe as long as No. 4 Battery (Burtons) i~ held. This is now a closed work with an infantry support. The plat- form is all laid and the magazine made. The mortar can be removed in five hours any night to where the locomotive can take it. The present fire is reported to be in reply to our fire on the new work in front of Fort MeGilvery. Shall 1 send up the mortar? HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Octobcr 1.9, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT: (Dan you keep down the enemys fire without the 13-inch mortar? If can you keep it down with that mortar? It is desirable not to bring it up if it can be avoided. HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 19, 186411.30 p. m. Brigadier-General HUNT, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The 13-inch mortar is very effective upon those batteries. It has been the problem ever since the army arrived to keep down their fire. It has never been entirely accomplished, and I do not believe it can be if the rebels are really bent on using them. They enfilade our lines and have so few men near them that no great loss ensues from a very heavy fire on our part. They have reconimenced firing in order to stop ou Page 278 278 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP LIV. fire on the new woik in front of Fort McGilvery. I think they will continue it, more or less rapidly, until we stop, eveu if we double our present armament. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connectient Artillery. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 19, 18647.~?O p. m. (Received 7.30 p. ni.) Colonel ABBOT: General Butler desires that you send to Coxs Hill to-morrow six 30-pounder Parrott gnus. If you are unable to send 30-pounders send 20-pounders. They are to be used against the rebel gun-boats in the river early on the morning of the 21st. Please answer. A detachuient ought to be sent to work the guns in ease Captain Pierce has not enough men. PETER S. MICHIE, Lieutenant, U. AS. Engineers. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 19, 18647.30 p. rn. Lieutenant MIcrnE, Chief Engineer, Headquarters Army of t4e James: How would it do to use Ashbys battery of four 20-poniider Parrotts and the three 4inch gulls in Fort Brady? If it is for a temporary use I would decidedly advise this, as the pontoon bridge is so weak that it will be necessary to carry the guns by a barge and the labor would be unnecessary. If the gnus are to be kept in position I can, of course, send them. Ashbys battery is with the Eighteenth Corps, and if not with its corps can easily cross the bridge. Please answer to-night. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut A rtillery. IIF~ADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 19, 18648.55 p. m. Lieutenant - MICHIE: Ashby~s battery is on the Bermuda front. His guns are near the signal tower on Appomattox River. A. PIPER, Colonel, ctc. GENERAL BUTLERS HEi~ ~)QUARTERS, October 19, 18648.50 p. m. Colonel ABBOT: General Butler wishes to use ten guns in a I; three in the new battery, four in another that I will build to-morrow, and three from the fort. Ashbys battery is on Bermuda front. They will do if some one will haul them over. What is wanted are guns and men to man them. - MICHIE, Lieutenant Page 279 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPON1)ENCE, ETC.UNION. 279 BROADWAY LANDiNG, YA.q October 19, 186410.30 p. rn. Brigadier-General GRAHAM, Old Headquarters Eighteenth Corps: General Butler desires to use several heavy guns for an especial service early in a. in. of 21st instant. If you can possibly spare Ashbys battery of four 20-pounders for that short service it will greatly help matters. Please let me know to-night. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding A~~iege Train. OLD hEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS, October 19, 1864. Col. HENRY L. ABBOT, First Connecticut Artillery: Ashby~s battery can be spared for the service you mention. Please have the guns returned as soon as possible. ChARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, October 19, 1864. Brevet Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you detail a competent officer to command the First Brigade, First Division, of your corps, and return Colonel Pond, Sixty-second Ohio Volunteers, now in command, to his regiment. I am, general, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, El). W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SECOND DIV., TLNTH ARMY CORPS, No. 113. In the Field, Va,, October 19, 1864. * * * * * 111. The Forty-seventh New York Volunteers are hereby assigned as garrison for the new redoubt in the front of the Second Brigade. Capt. J. M. McDonald, commanding the regiment, will assume com- mand without delay. By order of Bvigadier-General Foster: P. A. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 19, 1864. (Received 3.35 p. in.) Colommel KENSEL: I understand that Colonel Potter is to be seimt over here. Please ask the general to order Marston over there in Potters place, and give me Potter to command my First Division. Please acknowledge receipt. G. WEITZEL, Brevet ]Ift~or- General Page 280 280 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. IIEAIJQITARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY (~ORPS, OFFICE CHIEF OF ARTILLERY, October 19 1 ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 864. Headquarters Big ftteenth Army Corps: SIR: I have the honor to report that by Special Orders, Kos. 97 and 104, of August 4 and 12, 1864, 181 enlisted men of the Fifth Maryland Volunteers were assigned to batteries of the corps in the following pro- portions: Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, 31 privates; I3atteryB, First U. S. Artillery, 65 privates; Battery F, Fifth U. S. Artillery, 40 privates; Battery F, First Rhode Island Artillery, 20 privates; Six- teenth New York Battery, 25 privates. I am of opinion that it would be highly prejudicial to the interests of the service to return these men from the batteries with which they are now serving, except in the case of those assigned to the Sixteenth New York Battery. The batteries, except the one just referred to, are short of men, and constant requisi- tions are made on me by battery coimnanders for men to preserve their efficiency. The Sixteenth New York Battery has now men enough of its own for a four-gun battery. As the detachment of the Fifth Mary- land serving with it have by this time become good artillerists, I respectfully suggest that they be assigned to Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, which is losing men fast by discharges. 1 have the honor to state t-hat, so far as I can learn, the men attached to ~he batteries are, with very few exceptions, satisfied with their condition. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PIPER, C~olonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery. CITY POINT, VA., October 20, 18647 p. mu. lion. EDWIN M. STANTON, (Received 8.10 i~. in.) & eretary of War: I had a salute of 100 guns from each of the armies here fired in honor of Sheridans last victory. Turning what had bid fair to be a disaster into glorious victory st~mnps Sheridan, what I have always thought him, one of the ablest of generals. U.S. GRANT, - Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 20, 186412 mu. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: The quiet of the lines during the past twenty-four hours has been undisturbed except by the usual ~rtillcry firing in front of Second Corps. Fonr deserters caine in (mm) g the night, who report nothing new. Some contrabands caine in on the left this morning, who state there was to be to-day at 10 a. in. an assemblage of masters and slaves at Din- widdie Court-House for the purpose of collecting slaves to take the places of teamsters and other detailed men in the army. On inspect- big Benhamns lines yesterday I found a battery organized from detach- ments of recruits and convalescents from various regiments in this army. This organization I understood was gotten up temporarily when a cav- alry raid was anticipated and was formed with your sanction. As this contingency has passed and the men are wanted with their regiment Page 281 CHAP. LIVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 281 and the pieces required for existil]g organizations, I directed the men to be returned to their regiments and the pieces turned in to the ordnance officer, who will issue them t& batteries requiring guns. As soon as General Benhams lines are completed, and the batteries of this army filled, Ii will send such batteries to aim the lines as may be necessary. This explanation is now made in case this subject is brought to your attention. GEO. G. MEADE,~ Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, Va., October 20, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, As8istant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Your report of the 30th of September gives aggregate pi~esent for duty at 55,012; that of October 10, at 54,525 ; loss in ten days, from September 30 to October 10, 487. During these ten days the provost-marshal-general sent forward recruits amounting to 5,594. Adding these accessions to the loss above reported would make a loss of 6,081. Will you please inform me what has occasioned this serious diminution. Does sickness prevail to a large extent, or are many old regiments going out ~ Any information you can furnish on this subj ect will much oblige, Yery truly, your friend, T. S. BOWERS, Lieutenant- Colonel, & e. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 20, 18615.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have just returned to camp and received the glorious news from Sheridan.* To achieve such results after having met the reverse he describes, is one of the most brilliant feats of the war. I heartily cow gratulate you and hini on the result. GEO. G. MEAI)E. Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROYOST-1\IARSIIAL-GENERAL, Major-General UUMPHREYS, October 20, 1864. Chief o/ Staff: GENERAL: The following communication received this a. m. from Captain MeEntee, in charge of the Information I)epartment at City Point: Messenger from Richmond states: All roads leading into thc city are protected by torpedoes. The iron-clad railroad battery wa~ placed near the outer fortifica- tions on the York River railroad last Sunday. None of Earlys men have retnrned to Richmond, excepting those who have lost their arms. Picketts division and Thomas brigade are between the Appomattox and James. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. Se~ Sheridan to Grant, October 19,10 p. in., Vol. XLIII, Part II Page 282 282 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, ARMiES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, VA., October 20, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: The following information just received from Richmond agent is respectfully transmitted: On Thi the roads approaching the city torpedoes are being laid and covered with dnst. Cords 400 feet long arc attached to the torpedoes and men secreted in the bushes pull the cord on the approach of an enemy. They are working on them night and day and already have them on some of the roads. They are also making and placing very ingenious torpedoes in the James River; something recently invented. It is reported that General Lee is deteraiined to retake Fort Harrison. He is watching for a weak point that he may attack. It is generally believed he will attack very soon; some say to-day, October 19. The iron-clad railroad battery was placed on the York River road on Sunday last near the outer line of works. The fortifications between Darbytown road and the river have been much strengthened. Informant estimates the force in and about Rich- inond (north of James) at about 20,000 men, and states that many of them will not fight. Attention is called to a remarkable article in the Enquirer of the 19th, advocating the conscripting of negroes for the military service. The paper has not been received here. - Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. MCENTEE, Gaptain, & e. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 20, 18649 a. m. Captain PAINE: At 7.15 a. in. two engines passed westward oii South Side Railroad. Owing to the fog and smoke we have been unable to see but little of the enemys camp~ this morning. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 20, 18645 p. m. Captain PAINE: At 1.30 p. in. abont 300 men were drilling near fort on Boydton plank road. At 3 p. m. seven wagon-loads of loose straw passed eastward on Boydton plank road. During the p. in. a small working party has been engaged in strengthening the abatis before work near Jones. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAI~ STATION, - October 20, 18645.30 p. m. Captain DAvIS: Very quiet in the enemys lines on this front to-day. SLEEPER, Sergeant Page 283 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 283 HEADQUARTERS SECOND AuNY CORPS, October 20, 18G46 p. m. Lieutenant STRYKER: All quiet from Carothers and Joidans stations. As the intercepted messages from ilolmans station are unimportant, I do not Consider it worth wuile to bother you with them unless you wish it. From the Avery house working as usual at the Crater is reported. I. THICKSTUN, ()ctptaift and Acting Signal Officer. FRONT OP FORT TIOWARI), October 20, 18646 p. m. Captain DAVIS: No change in enemys line on this front observed this day. The enemy relieved pickets on this front at 5 p. in. with a detail of about 200 men. All quiet in enemys camps. C. G. AIKEN, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS ENGINEER BRIGADE, City Point, Va., October 20, 1864. M4 Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potom~w: SlR: In accordance with the directions of the commanding general, I have the honor to submit an estimate of the least force, in my opinion, requisite for a temporary protection or defense of the redoubts and lines now being prepared under my direction for the protection of City Point. I have submitted the estimate in its details tliat,in connection with tile plan of the lines, herewith also submitted, the coimrianding general may most readily judge as to the force that he would desire to place on these lines for this purpose. The additional force outside the redoubts appears to~ me, after the fullest reflection, to be of great impor- tance, as otherwise in any attack upon the lines intermediate between the redoubts, especially if made at night, when the aim of the artilierists must be very uncertain, either the redoubts must be partially or wholly vacated to meet such an attack or there must be a disposable force besides the garrisons of the redoubts, to move wherever such an attack is threatened, to meet it. As the best solution of the matter of the bridge across the Appomattox,it has occurred t~ me, it must be per- fectly satisfactory, at least for the connection of the depots at City Point and Berniuda Hundred, to have, if possible, a bridge and roadway within our present lines, and I therefore sent an officer to reconnoiter the opposite shore this morning, and he has just returned and reports that there is a point directly opposite the Nelson house (which you visited, on the banks of the Appomattox) from which a road could be made north, by a corduroy of one-quarter of a mile or a little more, for which there is plenty of material there, as lie stAes. Such a position for a bridge, concealed as it would be from the (lirect view of the enemy and giving a munch shorter communication between this post and the north of the Appoma~ttox, for this point only, certainly would, in my opinion, be far prefem-able to the present site, while the debouche would be within my present lines of defense. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BENIIAIVI, Brigadier- (len eral, Corn manding Page 284 284 OPERATIONS IN SE, VA. AND N. C. ~C5IA1. LIV. [luclosure. 1 Estimate of men and cannon required for defense of the line in front of City Pojo t, cannon to hare the nsnai number of ar/i ilerists. The lines here shout 17,680 feet ill extent. Numher of usen. Numher of guns. Redouht. Crest of ~______ - - redouht. For more For more Minimum, secure Minimmn. secure defense. defense. Icad.s - No.1 70 175 3 4 No.2 227 250 275 4 5 No.3 161 160 175 2 3 No.4 50 375 3 4 On line 2021 1 No.3 iOu 185~ 225 3 4 At railroad south ot No. 5 I No.6 113 100~ 100 3 Re-entrant angle at 55 . 1 No.7 6% 175 2 3 Line 5738 2 2 Old Court-House 396 425 500 4 6 Salient on line 4544~ 1 Totni 1 738 1 800 2, 000 25 38 And for better security against an attack on the lines between the reboubts for picket duty, & c., at least one regiment of 600 to 800 should be stationed about midway in rear of the lines north of the railroad, and another of about the same size in a similar position on the lines south of the railroad. Respectfully submitted. H. W. BENHAM, 1~ieut. Col. of Engineers and Brig. Gem, (Jomdg. Defenses, di~c. CITY POINT, MA., Octobe 20, iSGI. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 20, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNOROSS, A.qsistant A~jatant- General, Second Ooo~ps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that fire has been kept up during the past twenty-four hours on the new works which the enemy is building opposite our right. Mortars have been put in position by the enemy opposite Fort MeGilvery and Battery No. 9, from which they fired a few shots last night. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. U. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. IIDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD Div., SECOND CORPS October 20, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJoR: 1 have the honor to submit the following report of my tour of duty corps officer of the day for the 19th instant: I visited the greater portion of the line and found the pickets properly posted an Page 285 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 285 vigilant. The connections between the divisions were perfect. I would recommend that the pickets be allowed to connect the 1)itS with a s~nall trench in the open field at the center of the line of the Third Division and on the left of the Second Division. It can be done by supplying the pickets with intrenching tools or by sending a small fatigue l)arty at night. Respectfully submitted. 13. 11. PIERCE, Brigadier- Ucueral of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPS, October 20 18 Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, 649 a. m. Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual transpired in my front yesterday or last night. Two deserters from Twenty-sixth Mis- sissippi were received and forwarded. Three hundred men were at work during the day on the new redoubt on left of General Griftins line. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADOUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 20, 186410 a. in. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: We have just received four negroes who caine this morning from near Stony Creek. They say that there is to be a meeting at Dinwiddie Court-House at 10 oclock this Illorning to receive details of negro haiids and teams from all the planters in the county. These hands are to drive teams, so as to put the white teamsters in the ranks These negroes are now on their way to your headquarters. Respectfully, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTM ARMY CORPS, October 20, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Nothing new along our lines. - The right of our picket-line was. advanced, occupying the Boswelliiouse and more favorable ground. Two men from the Sixth New Hampshire deserted to the enemy during yes~ terday. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General, CITY POINT, VA,, October 20, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I am in receipt of a communicatioii from Ceneral Lee, showing that prisoners of war set to work in the intremmchnieiits have been withdrawn Page 286 286 OPERATIONS IN SE, VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. I will send you the communication to-morrow. It becomes incumbent on us, of course, to withdraw the prisoners employed, in Dutch Gap Caifal. Please withdraw them and have them forwarded to join the prisoners of war North. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 20, 18649.50 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Your telegram concerning the official dispatch of General Lee, regarding the prisonei s at work in the rebel trenches, is received. Orders have been issued relieving to-night the prisoners at Dutch Gap. A copy of the order will be sent you in the morning. BENJ. F. BUTLER, ]!iliajor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 134. ) In the Field, Va., October 20, 1864. It having been officially certified by General Lee, commanding Con- federate forces, that time prisoners of war of this army put to work in the trenches near Fort Gihmuer have been withdrawn, to be treated as prisoners of war, it is ordered that the prisoners of war of the Con- fi~derate forces put to work in the canal at Dutch Gap, in retaliation, shall be at once withdrawn and sent to Point Lookout, to be held and treated hereafter as prisoners of war. Nunibers of these prisoners having certified in writing to the com- muanding general their desire to take the oath of allegiance, because of the inhnmanity of the Confederate authorities toward them, which application was declined lest it should be said that these prisoners took the oath of allegiance to the United States under duress, it is now ordered that so many of them as choose, after this order is read to them, be permitted to take the oath of allegiance, amid be sent North, to be there found employment by the Government, as other prisoners of war have been who have returned to their loyalty to the United States. By comnmand of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 302. ) In the Field, Va., October 20, 1864. * * * - * * P 5. Maj. L. L. Weld, Forty-first U. S. Colored Troop8, will proceed to Philadelphia without delay and bring to this department time remaining comupanies of his regiment. Qm~artermasters department will fmirnish traimsportation. By command of Major- General 8 utier: El). \V. SMITH, J~~nstanl A~jatant- General Page 287 CRAP. LIY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC UNION. 287 hEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, Anmxi~ OF TilE POTOMAC, October ~O 1861. Colonel ABBOT: It is not advisable to put the 13-inch niortar in l)osition if as good results can be obtained from smaller ordnance more easily mounted. The enemy is vcvy active on his lines. and it wonhi be well to examine them to see if further maneuvers are necessary. When can you go on them again with me, or, after examining them yourself, see me. I7IOWT comes on the report of the siege operations h HENRY J. HUNT. BROADWAY LANDINQ VA., October 20, 18619 a. m. Lieutenant MICHIE, Chief Engineer, Headquarters Army of the James: Please have the landing at Aikens cleared by 3 p. in., as the guns will arrive .then. Three 30-pounder Parrotts, Aslibys battery, will cross the pontoon bridge about the same time, probably.. Please have guides ready to show the way for both. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut A rtillery. DUTCH GAP, VA., October 20, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, tJommanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report-that previous to about 1 p. in. to-day the enemy fired quite rapidly at times, dropping many of their shells ainon~ their own men (prisoners) encamped near the canal bat few fell among the working party. Since 1 oclock have been on duty elsewhere, and c an, therefbre, send you no correct statement of my own. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS TENTh ARMY CoRPS, October 20, 1864. (Received 9.30 p. nm.) Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH: I sent the body of Captain Quattlebaiwn to the rebel lines on the Darbytown road this afternoon. My aide who took it out tells me that there was loud cheering among tlw enemy while he was there. Very likely it was for the success which at first they obtained yesterday in the Valley, but it inay have indicated a fresh arrival of troops. I 1-epeat the fact for what it may be worth. The officer who met my aide belonged to the Sixty-first North Caroliiia Regiment. ALP. I-I. TEL~RY, Jlreret Major- (ienerai Page 288 288 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, hEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, No.157. in the Field, Va., October 20, 1864. 1. Brig. Gen. J. IR. m wicy, U. S. VcAunteers, is hereby assigned to temporary command of the Third Division dii ing the absence of Brig. Gen. William Birney, U. S. Volunteers. * * * * By command of Byt. Maj Gci. A. II. Terry: WM. P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CoRPS, In the Field, Va., October 20, 1864. Brig. Gen. A .AMES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: It having been brought to the notice of the major-general commanding that many regiments have not received the re-enforce- ments which have been forwarded from the draft rendezvous, and which have had ample time to reach them, he directs that you cause the commanders of those i egimeuts to make immediate reports, show- ing the numbers which have been forwarded, the date of the departure, the number received, and the date of the arrival, tog-ether with any other facts which may be of value in this connection. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WiN/I. P. SHREVE, First Lieut., Second U. S. Sharpshooters, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen. (Same to Generals Foster and Birney.) HEADQLTARTERS FIRS~U DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CoRPS, October 20, 1864. Col. H. M. PLAISTED, Commanding Third Brigade: COLONEL: In pursuance of instructions from headquarters Tenth Army Corps, the general commanding directs nine to instruct you that in case of any alarm on our right the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers shall go to and garrison the redoubt beybud the church, repairing thence at once without waiting for orders other than per bri- gade headquarters, in case of a movement in that direction. I & m, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. A. CARLETON, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTh ARMY CORPS, October 20, 1864. Brig. Gen. R. S. FOSTER, Commanding Second .Division: l)EAn GENERAL: I think that your small redoubt should have a ~arrison of 260 men, the larger one of 440. This will give two ranks at the parapet and one-quarter of the whole number in reserve. Very truly, yours, ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet ilfajor- General Page 289 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 289 HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, TENTH CORPS, Before Richmond, Va., October 20, 1864. Lieut. WILLIAM P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, & c.: SIR: I have the honor to report that I arrived here and assumed command about 3.15 p. in.perhaps a little later than the major-gen- eral expected, but I was delayed a little by some business that could not well be tnrned over instantly. I find an order concerning a fatigue detail that failed to report promptly, and am informed that it has beeu attended to. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. II. HAWLEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. I received the order about 2 p. ni. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 20, 18645 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: W 11 either the Sixth or iNineteenth Corps, after all their fights and their loss of general officers, be much of a reenforcement anywhere now~? G. WEITZEL, ]iiliajor- General. [Major-General WEITZEL:] Not much. 13. F. B[UTLER]. GENERAL ) HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL DIVISION, ORDERS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., No. 2. ) In the Field, Va., October 20, 1864. Maj. George B. Cook, First Connecticut Artillery, is announced as chief of artillery on the staff of the brigadier-general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. Commanding officers of all batteries within the limits of this command will report at once to Major Cook, chief of artillery, at these headquarters. By order of Brigadier-General Graham: H. DALE BENSON, Aide-dc- Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 20, 18644.10 p.m. Capt. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Nary, Washington, D. C.: I desire very much six 12-pounder boat howitzers for a special serv- ice, with their equipments complete, as well for land as water. Please send them to me and I will forward any sort of requisition or receipt that the Navy Department shall think necessary. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. 19 R RVOL XLII~ PT Il Page 290 290 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [ChAP. LIV. CITY POINT, October 21, 1861. Major-General MEADE: I go out this morning to ride round the works west of the Weldon road. Will stop the cars at your station and go from there on horse- back. If not otherwise engaged I would be pleased to haye you ride with me. U. S. GRANT Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 18649.10 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Have received your dispatch and will be ready on your arrival to accompany you. GEG. G. MEADE, ]Uiqjor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 18641 p. m. Lieut. Col. T. S. BOWERS, A.A. C., Hdqrs. Armies of the United & ates, City Point: Have received your note of 20th instant. Our loss, 6,081 in the ten days ending October 10, may be accounted for as follows: Loss by discharge of regiments and individuals by expiration of service, 1,570. Casualties, killed and missing, including the killed and missing in the reconnaissance made by the Ninth Corps, September 30 accounted for in the report of that date 1,840; but not regiments of dis- niounted cavalry transferred from the Fifth Corps to the Second Cav- alry Division, dropped from the report of the former bat through inad- vertence not taken up on the report of the latter, 700; makin ginall 4,110. It is thought that the wounded during the ten days, the woun(ted in the above-mentioned reconnaissance, and the excess of men taken sick in the ten days over those returned to duty same period will account for the remnamn(ler, 1,971, of the loss yet to be explained: I am unable at this moment to tarnish the numbers required under each of these heads, but will obtain them if you desire it. The wounded in aciion are not specially reported in the tn-monthly reports, there be- ing no column on the form for such reports. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, Major-General H~MPHREYS, City Point, Va., October 21, 1864. Chief of Staff: GENERAL: A communication has just been received from Lieutenant Wright, in charge of scouts at Washington, to the effect that no troops have passed over the Central railroad since last report. Early~s forces are reported to be south of Strasburg. The conscription is being enforced to include boys twelve years of age. Loudoun County is said to have turned out 1,500 of these lads, who have been placed in the fortifications, and relieve men for field duty. Scouts who brought thi Page 291 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 291 report returned from Falmouth yesterday. In addition to report made last evening, refugees from iRiclimond state that the York River rail- road has been taken np from Tunstalls Station to withiu two miles of Richmond. On the railroad at its present terminus the enemy have an iron-clad mortar battery, or a mortar battery mounted on an iron- clad car. The following-named city battalions are now in the defenses of Richmond, an d average about 250 men each, viz: Tredegar, Depart- ment, Navy, Arsenal, Armory, City, and Hensleys battalions. The l)laees of many of these men have been supplied by negroes. There are ~00 negroes employed in the Tredegar Rolling-Mills. Colonel Shields has charge of Camp Lee. He has between 3,000 and 4,000 men there under instruction. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. McENTEE, Captain, & c. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 21, 18649 a. m. Captain PAINE: Ten wagons, apparently empty, have just passed westward on Boyd- ton plank r9ad. The usual quietude prevails throughout the enemys camps. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 21, 1& 144.15 p. m. Captain PAINE: With the exception of the inspection of two regiments of infantry at 12.30 p. m. in the enemys works near Jones, nothing of interest has been observed from this station since last report. J. L. PRAY Sergeant. SQUIRREL LEVEL SIGNAL STATION, October 21, 18645.30 p. m. Captain DAVIS: At 2 p. m. traced the smoke from an engine about half a mile 011 line of South Side Railroad moving westerly. A working party of about 150 men have been engaged this p. m. strengthening enemys fortifications near toll-gate on Boydton plankroad. A train of sixteen wagons observed on Boydton plank road moving west. SLEEPER, Sergeant. FRONT OF FORT HOWARD, October 21, 18646 p. m. Capt. C. L. DAVIS: No change in enemy~s line on this front observed this day. A few wagons seen moving east and west on Boydton plank road. All quiet in enemys camps. C. U. AIKEN, Sergeant Page 292 292 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAr. LIV. hEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS October 21~ 18646.30 p. m. Major FISHER: IDift~rent stations report all quiet. Quite a number of gabions were taken into the Crater to-day. Another gun is being mounted at the Whitworth battery. 1. TII1CKSTUN, Captain and Acting Signal Officer. IIEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 21, 1864. Major FISHER: About 1,000 of enemys infantry moving to our right on Richmond railroad. JORDAN. IIDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, Octob6r 21, 1864. Maj.Gen. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: SIR: A further reflection upon the position of the first salient south of the railroad (at Station No. 30) on the lines of defense here, leads me to the conclusion that gorge parapets had best be thrown up there to make it a redoubt (notwithstanding the slashing it can have in rear, which no other redoubt has). I therefore send the project* I pro- pose to follow out there, which can readily be transferred to the plan I sent, and I would call this redoubt No. 6, and the lozenge redoubt at the south (the former No. 6) be No. 7. I also send the corrected esti- mate* necessary. Fery respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BENHAM, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 1864. General H. W. BENHAM, City Point: The commanding general directs that you order the One hundred and eighty-sixth New York and Thirty-ninth New Jersey Regiments to report to Major-General Parke, commanding Ninth Army Corps, and the battalion of the One hundred and eighty-eighth New York Regi- ment to report to Major-General Warren, commanding Fifth Army Corps. These troops have been assigned to the corps indicated, and will join with as little delay as practicable. They can be sent up by railroad. The terminus of the road is very near General Warrens headquarters. If you will let me know when the ti~oops for the Ninth Corps will leave City Point a staff officer will meet them at the Weldoii railroad to conduct them to their destination. S. WILLIAMS, As8i4ant Adjutant- General. * Not found Page 293 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 293 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 18643 p. m. Brig. Gen. H. W. BENHAM Commanding Engineer Brigade, City Point: Please have the commanders of each of the reginients and battalions mentioned in the fo1lowin~ order furnished with a copy of the order: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No.255. October 21, 1864. * * * * * 2. The following-named regiments and battalions having been assigned to the Army of the Potomac by paragrapli 1 of Special Orders, No. 108, of October 19, 1864, from headquarters Armies of the United States, will, nntil otherwise ordered, con- tinue on duty with the Engineer Brigade, with which they arc now temporarily. serving: One hundred and eighty-sixth New York Volunteers, Col. Bradley Wins. low; Thirty-ninth New Jersey Volunteers, Colonel Wildrick; One hundred an(l eighty-eighth New York, Major Davison, six companies; Eighteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, Capt. A. K. Potter, live companies; Eighth Delaware Volunteers, Capt. R. J. Holt, three companies; Sixty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, Lieut. Col. C. F. Walcott, five companies. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 21, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: There has been no change in my lines since last report. WJNFD. S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 21, 1864. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS: I desire to be informed, since General Crawford has occupied the line np to Battery No. 24, whether 1 am to picket in his front, as I am doing now, or whether he is to relieve my pickets that are now covering his froiit. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THfl POTOMAC, October 21, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: I will mention the matter of pickets to General Meade as soon as he returns. I was absent when General Crawford extended to Battery 24, and do not know what directions were given him. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 294 294 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: I referred your dispatch relative to picket-line to the major-general commanding, and he informs me that it was not intended to change the point of junction of the picket-lines of the two corpsthat is half way between Fort Alexander Hays and Fort Howard. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Sta/. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS October 21, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK: - GENERAL : The lieutenant-general commanding desires a formidable movement made to our left with a view of seizing and holding the South Side Railroad. For this purpose it is proposed to hold the line now held by your corps only with the artillery and garrisons of the inclosed works, the picketing to be done as far as possible by these garrisons. I desire to have your views as to the practicability and expediency of this operation, the number of men it will require to hold all the works~, and such additional picketing as you may deem abso- lutely essential. It is, of course, to be understood that the project is based on the presumption that the heavy attack made on the enemys right will compel them to employ all their available force to meet it, and wd hold the line of redoubts only in such manner as to prevent an unobstructed movement on their part, or to check them long enough to enable us to re-enforce this part of our lines in case the attack on the left does not concentrate all their forces to meet it. I would be pleased to have your views, with the number of mcmi and guns required to hold the line, and the number of men (and guns, if any) that would be available for operations on the left. All trains, battery horses, & c., will have to go inside the lines of City Point, which will also be held. Respectfully, yours, GEG. C-. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel MORGAN, Assistant Inspector- General: The commanding general directs me to hasten the completion of the fraise in front of your line. Major Beers, Fiftieth New York Volunteer Engineers, has been ordered to work three additional companies of engineer troops to assist him. Will you please have an additional detail of 700 men, making 1,000 in all and thirty more wagons, making fifty in all, for day work; and 300 men, in addition to the 100 he has 110W7 for night work. With these details he will probably be able to finish in two days and nights. I will then require details to demolish the old line. N. MICHLER Page 295 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 295 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the following report of cas- ualties occurring in this command dnring the ten days ending the 20th instant: Killed. Wounded. Total. Ia Command. ~,i a a . a . . a a sr 0 0 ~ 0 ~ I Corps headquarters Engineer Battalion Artillery Brigade 2 2 2 First Division 5 23 28. 28 Second Division 6 1 19 1 25 26 Third Division 10 26 36 16 Total 21 1 70 1 91 92 I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General of Volunteers. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 21, 1864. Brigade commanders will state below the number of men, inclusive of recruits (but exclusive of non-commissioned officers), in their respect- ive commands, available for fatigue and picket duty, independent of the garrison in the di~erent forts. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FINKELMEJEIt, Assistant Adjutant- General. First Brigade, 842; Second Brigade, 879; Third Brigade, 868. HDQRS. FIRST BRIfADE, THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 21, 1864. Capt. J. P. FINKELMEIER, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that Captain Andrews, Twen- tieth Jndian~i Volunteers, a brigade officer of the day, having been directed by me to ascertain the exact condition of the enenlys rifle-pits on the right of the plank road at the place known as the Chimneys, has just brought in the following report: Since the Second Division has furnished the pickets in front of Fort Sedgwick, daring the absence of our division, then engaged in active operations on the left of the army, the enemy has been allowed to build two or three pits in advance of his line on the right of the road, so as to obtain ait enfilading fire at very close range on our pits across the road, which explains the recent Cw~p. LIV. Page 296 [CHAP. LIV. 296 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. number of casualties on that point and may become of dangerous un- portance in case of an attack. These pits did not exist, and the enemy did not even attempt to establish them while my brigade picketed the opposite line. Now some additional works will be necessary for the protection of our men, and I would recommend some side pits, well covered by a strong parapet. I have further to report that yesterday, as I am informed, a man from the enemys line has been allowed to come in one of our pits near the Chimneys, and to remain there during one hour or more, prob- ably collecting as much information as he could, either by persoiial observation or by a long talk with our men. I will immediately pro- ceed to a strict investigation on the subject, and will prefer charges against the parties guilty of such a criminal dereliction of duty. Very respectfully, R DL ThOBRIAND, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, iNo. 93. } IIDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 3D Div., 2D CORPS, October 21, 1864. I. Brevet Major-General Mott having assumed command of division, Brig. Gen. R. de Trobriand again assumes command of the brigade. By command of Brig. Gen. P. de Trobriand: JAMES M. LINNARD, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 21, 18649 a. m. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that all was quiet in front of this corps yesterday and during the night. Four deserters were received yester- (lay and for~ arded. The engineer officer in charge of the new redoubt on General Griffins left reports that work ready for occupancy. Respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQrARTERS FIFTn CORPS, October 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report my return froum leave of absence. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 21, 18649 ~. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I have the honor to report quiet on my front during the last twenty- four hours. One man deserted from Twenty-ninth Massachusetts last night. JNO. G. PARKE, ill ajor- General, Commanding Page 297 CHAP. LIV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 297 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 18649 a. m. Major-General PARKE: I propose to inspect your lines to-day with Lieutenant-General Grant. I desire General Crawford to be at the Fifth Corps headquarters, and General Parke at the Pegrain house redoubt. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- general, Commanding. (Same to Brigadier-General Crawford.) HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, Va., October 21, 1864. Brigadier-General DYER, Chief of Ordnance, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I learn through Colonel Serrell that you have examined the guns made by Mr. Ames, of Falls Village, Conn., which are repre- sented as being able to stand a very heavy charge, and, of course, hav- ing long range and large penetrating power. We have, within 1,000 yards of us, the enemys powerful iron-dads, which we desire to drive away. That being so, I would be glad for a couple of the guns with appropriate ammunition. What would you say to one rifled, to use the Sawyer shell or solid shot ~ The objection to the use of that shell hav- ing heretofore been the weakness of the gun. One of these guns bored to 3.82, and using the solid Sawyer shot with the rings, I think, would be able to penetrate the six and eight inches of iron with which the Virginia and Richmond are clad. How early would it be possible for me to have the guns ~ Allow me to congratulate you upon your pro~ motion, which from all I hear, has been well earned. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- aeneral, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., October 21, 1864. (Received 10 p. in.) General BUTLER: Howitzers ordered from New York by express to Hampton Roads. I presume you wanted smooth-bores. At any rate I doubt whether we have six rifles to fill Grahams requisition. Anything we have in that line is at yonr service. Please declare those naval officers you sent up exchanged as soon as possible. They will fight better for their sojourn South. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 21, 1864. Liefit. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer at Cobbs Hill reports that at 7 p. in. a balloon was seen on the enemys lines bearing west-northwest from the signal tower; also a train of cars toward Petersburg. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. R. ChUM, Captaim and Chief Signal Officer Page 298 298 OPERATIONS iN SE. VA. AND N. C. CHAP. LIV GENERAL ORDERS,) IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 135. In the Field, October 21, 1864. SOLDIERS OF THE ARMY OF THE JAMES: With deep grief from the heart the sad word must be saidMaj. Gen. David B. Birney is dead. But yesterday he was with usleading you to victory. If the choice of the manner of death had been his, it would have been to have died on the field of battle as your cheers rang in his ear. But the All-Wise determineth all things well. General Birney died at his home in Philadelphia, on Tuesday last, of disease contracted on the field in the line of his duty. Surrounded by all that makes life desirablea happy home, endeared family relations, leaving affluence aiid ease, as a volunteer at the call of his countryhe came into the service in April, 1861. Almost every battle-field whereon the Army of the Potomac has fought has wit- nessed his valor. Rising rapidly in his profession, no more deserved appointment has been made by the President than General Birneys assignment to the command of the Tenth Army Corps. The respect and love of the soldiers of his own corps has been shown by. the manner they followed him. The patriotthe herothe soldier. By no death has the country sustained a greater loss. Although not bred to arms he has shown every soldierly quality and illustrated that profession of his love and choice. It is not the purpose of this order, nor will the woe of the heart of the officer giving it, now permit him, to write General Birneys eulogy. Yet even amid the din of arms, and upon the eve of battle, it is fit that we, his comrades, should pause a moment to draw from the exam- ple of his life the lesson it teaches. To him the word dutywith all its obligations and incentiveswas the spur of action. He had iio enemies, save the enemies of his country. A friend, a brother to us all, it remains to us to see to it, by treading the path of duty as he has done, that the great object for which he has struggled with us and laid down his life, shall not fail and his death be pr9fitless. Soldiers of the Tenth Army Corps! Your particular grief at the loss of your brave commander has the sympathy of every soldier in the army. It will be yours to show your respect to his memory by serving your country in the future as with you Birney has served it in the past. By command of Major.General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, As8istant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 136. In the Field, Va., October 21, 1864. In compliance with General Orders, No.251, of August 31, 1864, froin the War Department, and for the purpose of en ablin g courts-martial to be convened by the commanding generals of the troops embraced in the Districts of Eastern Virginia and North Carolina, respectively, they are hereby designated as separate brigades. By command of Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 299 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 299 GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No.138. ) In the Field, Va., October 21, 1864. It has been brought to the attention of the major-general command- lug that certain persons who have incurred punishment at the hands of the military authorities in this department have subsequently obtained from officers of the command certificates, testifying to their innocence of the offense for which they were dealt with, or to their general goo(l character and conduct, or criticising the course of proceedings. Officers are reminded that in signing such certificates they presume to censure the acts of their superiors, and are thus guilty of flagrant disrespect and insubordination. The offense will in future meet with prompt and severe punishment. it is believed that in most instances this error has been committed thoughtlessly, and upon the importunity of friends and associates. This order will in future furnish an answer to all such applications. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant A~jutant- General. FORT BRADY VA Octobe Col. H. L ABBOT, , ., r 21, 1864. Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy opened to-day from a new position in an angle of the woods, some distance to their right. They used 8-inch mortars, but did no damage as I could dis- cover. Placed one of the 4.5-inch guns in the sunken battery, in the ditch of Fort Brady, and threw a few rounds of percussion shell at them. Lookers-on stated that they saw eight men leave the hole by twos at our last shot. At all events, have heard nothing from them since up to this hour, 9 p. m. Mis. Woodruff had charge of the piece. Fired by order of General Butler. Received instructions late last night that the new battery was not ready to open fire on the gun-boats this morning. Expect an order to do so to-morrow morning. Lieuten- ant Michie called here to-day and said he found the embrasures as you stated. Think by changing some he can work six guns; no more. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First Conneetient Artillery. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field Va Octobe Brig. Gen. A. AMES, , ., r 21, 1864. Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you assign a garrison to the redoubt on your line near Four-Mile Church, if you have not already done so, placing a field officer in command. In case of action this officer will assume command of the artillery which may be in the fort in addition to the infantry, and he will be held responsible for the proper defense of the work. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. P. SHRE YE, First Lient., Second U. S. Sharpshooters, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen. (Same to General Foster. Page 300 300 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SECOND Div., 10TH ARMY CORPS, No. 115. 5 In the Field, l~a., October 21, 1864. I. The Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Coan commanding, are hereby assigned as the garrison of the redoubt on the front of the Second Brigade, Second Division, and will relieve the Forty-seventh New York Volunteers, Capt. J. M. McDonald coin- manding, without delay. Lieutenant-Colonel Coan will assume corn- inand of the work. Detailed instructions will be furnished Lieutenant- Colonel Coan during the day. IT. The Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers, Capt. I. W. Hobbs com- manding, are hereby assigned as the garrison of the redoubt on the front of the Third Brigade, Second Division. In case of an attack, Maj. G. B. Dyer, Ninth Maine Volunteers, will at once assume com- mand of the work. Detailed instructions will be furnished Captain Hobbs and Major Dyer during the (lay. III. Maj. George B. Dyer, Ninth Maine Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the redoubt in the front of the Third Brigade, Second Division, relieving Capt. I. W. Hobbs, Fourth New Hampshire Volun- teers. Until further orders the infantry portion of the garrison will consist of the Fourth New Hampshire Volunteers, which regiment will remain under direct command of Captain Hobbs, but subject to the orders of Major Dyer, as garrison commander. By order of Brigadier.General Foster: P. A. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. [HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., October 21, 1864.] Maj. 0-. B. DYER, Ninth Maine Volunteers: MAJOR: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to forward the following instructions to govern you iu command of the redoubt on the front of the Second Brigade, Second Division: The garrison of the work will not be changed except by order from these or superior head- quarters, and you will not be required to furnish any pickets from your command. You will camp your regiment closely in rear of the redoubt, and will furnish guard to keep out stragglers, and will issue such in- structions as will prevent any damage to the works by the men of your own or other commands. The artillery will be nuder your command only so far as will be necessary to preserve good order and cleanliness. In case of action you will assume command of the entire garrison and will be held responsible that the work is held at all hazards, or until ordered by proper authority to withdraw. All repairs on the works will be made by details from your command. You will cause a well to be dug inside the work without delay. All reports or communications will be forwarded through headquarters Third Brigade, and all orders, other than those relating to the defense and condition of the work, issued by the brigade commander will be respected as heretofore. Respectfully, yours, P.A. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adutant- General. (Copy to Lient. Col. W. B. Coan, Forty-eighth New York Infantry. Page 301 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 301 HATCHERS, October 21, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: The following dispatch just received front Captain Hallett, gun-boat Foster, who commanded the expedition to Smiths Point, sent out in retaliation of the capture of the light-house keeper: I went to Smiths Point, up Coan River, and also Gre~ t Wicomico, besides several creeks. Had several skirmishes with the rebels and two smart little skirmishes killed and wounded about thirty rebels; none of us hurt. Have one citizen and three other prisonersone, I believe, a captain in the Second Georgia Regiment. The country is full of liome guards. I killed the captain of one company. WARREN HALLETT, Captain, Commanding Steamer Foster. CHAS. K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 22,18649 a. m. Captain PAINE: At 7.20 a. m. three engines moved westward on South Side Rail- road; 8.30 a m. five wagons passed westward on Boydton plank road. Distant cannonading is heard in the direction of Point of Rocks. No change of camp has become visible. J. L. PRAY, - sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 22, 18644p.m. Captain PAINE: At 1 p. m. wagons were seen passing westward on Boydton plank road; this is the only collection of transportation that has been ob- served. No changes of camp have become visible. J. L. PRAY, & rgeant. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. Major FISHER: No movements of any importance seen to-day. Three engines passed along the South Side Railroad this a. m. and one this p. m. CHAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, 4~c. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 360. * * Washington, October 22, 1864. * * * * * 11. By direction of the President, Bvt. Maj. Gen. Gershom Mott, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby assigned to duty according to his brevet rank of major-general. * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 302 302 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 286. October 22, 1864. * * * * * 2. The One hundred and eighty-sixth Regiment New York Volunteers, Thirty-ninth Regiment New Jersey Volunteers, and battalion (six com- panies) of the One hundred and eighty-eighth New York Volunteers, having reported for duty with this army, are assigned, the two former to the Ninth Army Corps and the latter to the Fifth Army Corps. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ENGR. BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT VA Octobe 22, 18G4, Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: I believe I have mentioned to General Meade verbally that at the time the Two hundredth Pennsylvania Regiment was recalled to Gen- eral Butlers command the lieutenant-general directed me to inform him whenever the call for the regimeiits away from the lines of defense here should reduce them below about 2,500 men. I would mention that the orders for the withdrawal of the regiments yesterday now leaves, includ- ing the Two hundred and fifth Pennsylvania Regiment, sent here by General Butler, and liable to be called for.by him, as the respective reports show, about 2,592 effective men for duty, exclusive of the bat- tery of artillery. I would state that the engineer troops now here pres- ent for duty, with arms, are about three companies only, including the portion of the pontoon repair company from the depot at Washington. The balance of the recruits here and one company of the Fifteenth are not yet armed. The arms for these men were repeatedly called for by me, but did not arrive here until the men had been set to continuous labor upon the fortifications; though I yet have a doubt if there is a single officer (except one for one company out of the seven)there appears certainly not the pretense of an officer for four of these com- panieswho can, according to the rules, receipt for and be accountable for the arms, & c., of these companies, though I have proposed, if it is practicable, to have these men armed during the coming week. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 22, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS: The only change that has occurred in my lines has been the removal of a part of General Miles command between Forts Stedman and MeGilvery to the new line. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. Page 303 CHAP. JAY.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 303 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Maj. Gen. G. G. MEADE, October 22, 1864. Gommanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your con- fidential communication of yesterday calling upon me for my views as to the practicability and expediency of holding the line now held by this corps by holding the inclosed works only, the garrisons of these works furnishing the pickets as far as practicable. In reply I have to state that, in my judgment, it would not be wise nor safe to materially weaken or change the present picket-line. Until it is removed the enemy can never tell how strongly we are holding the main line, and should they drive in the picket-line the men by taking refuge in the rifle-pits connecting the inclosed works would assist much in repelling any attack. The daily detail for picket is iiow 1,610 men, with the proper complement of officers and non-commissioned officers. The river line from Battery No. S to Redoubt Converse is held by about 250 men, the remainder picketing to a point between Battery 24 and Fort Howard. I would propose, then, to allow in addition to the garrisons of all the inclosed works, a force of, say, 1,625 men for picket duty, to alternate with a like number from the garrisons in doing the picketing. The tabular statement herewith inclosed shows the number of muskets and field guns required, in my opinion, to hold the line with any assur- ance of safety.* The character of the line is such that nothing can make it entirely safe but the establishment of good reserves at certain points. Our lines are in such close proximity to those of the enemy that our artillery, on which the strength of the line depends, has not its full power. Neither are the different points of the line in mutual support. Were the enemy to break tljrongh at Fort Morton or the Hare house nothing could prevent them from obtaining possession of the commanding ridge on which the Friend, D nun, and Avery houses are sitaated, and so compel the abandonment of the whole line, even as far as the plank road. It is to be regretted that this ridge, equally strong in front and rear, was not fortified. The enemy have followed a different plan from ours. The powerful works they have erected on the crest nearest the river hold by artillery the front line and prevent us from knowing the force there. The line between Fort flays and Fort Howard is weak, and would be fatally so without a strong picket well thrown out. The strongest part of the line is now probably on the plank roadstrong because the front line is subjected to the fire of Fort Davis. With the force exhibited in the tabular statement I think the line could only be taken at a costly sacrifice on the part of the enemy. 1 speak of an assault on the works, for if the enemy were to cross the Appomattox below Battery No. 5 (and a picket of 235 men could not long resist them) they would place our line in imminent peril. If operations toward the South Side Railroad should drain off a large portion of the enemys force, the number of men mentioned in the table might be reduced by 1,500 men, the garrisons supplying the entire picket detail, which I would on no account materially lessen. I have limited my observations to the question of practicability. Per- sonally, I should prefer some other position than the charge of su~h an extended line, with no reserves, when everything depends on the good conduct of subordinates. If any change of the nature indicated is (le- termined on, two or three days ought to be allowed for its execution, * Statement not found Page 304 304 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. that the troops may fainifiarize themselves with their new positions. It takes time to learn the line, and troops who know it are much better than those who do not. In addition to what Ii have said with regard to the picket-line, I may say that if only inclosed works are picketed the enemy might pass between some of the works at night without the knowledge of the garrisons, and when once through, they would be free to move, as none of the works are constructed to give an artillery fire to the rear. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, - WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I respectfully request that the Second and Third Brigades of this division, consolidated under Special Orders, No. 164, current series~ from headquarters Second Army Corps, may resume their sepa- rate organizations and receive assignments of the necessary officers for the staff departments. I recommend that Lient. Col. Denis F. Burke, Eighty-eighth New York Volunteers, may be assigned to the temporary command of the Second Brigade, if reorganized, until the arrival of an officer of higher rahk, and that Col. George N. Macy, Twentieth Massa- chusetts, now commanding the Consolidated Brigade, be assigned to the command of the Third Brigade, if reorganized. The regiments formerly composing the Second BrigadeSixty-third, Sixty-ninth, and Eighty eighth New YorknQw number 856 enlisted men present; those of the Third BrigadeSeventh, Thirty-ninth, Fifty-second, Fifty- seventh, One hundred and eleventh, One hundred and twenty-fifth, and One hundred and twenty-sixth New Yorknumber 1,900 enlisted men present. Very respectfully, N. A. MILES, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. Maj. S. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major- general commanding the corps, that since the Second Division has furnished the pickets in front of Fort Sedgwick, and during the absence of this division, then engaged in active operations on the left of the army, the enemy has been allowed to build two or three pits in advance of his line on the right of the Jerusalem plank road, so as to obtain an enfilading fire at very close range on my pits across the road, thereby causing a number of casualties daily at that point, and may be of dangerous importance in case of an attack. These pits did not exist ~nd the enemy did not attempt to establish them while my divisio Page 305 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 305 picketed the opposite line. Now some additional work will be neces- sary for the protection of my men, and I have given instructions to have some side pits dug, which will be done as soon as practicable. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that all was quiet in front of this corps yesterday and during the night. Two deserters from Twenty-second North Carolina received and forwarded. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major. General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 22, 1864. Major-General WARREN: GENERAL: In view of our conversation this morning, I would like to know the number of men and guns it will require to hold the line of redonbts and inclosed batteries now held by your corps, including the minimum picket-line, which should.be furnished as far as practicable from the garrisons of the works. It will probably be necessary to have a picket-line the whole front, who in case of being driven in could gar- rison the redoubts and more adjacent parts of the rifle trenches. In addition to the above, please let inc know how many guns and men will be left available for other operations. Respectfully, GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS No. 264. FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. * * * * * * VI. Bvt. Brig. Gen. E. M. Gregory, having reported in compliance with paragraph V of Special Orders, No. 282, headquarters Army of the Potomac, is assigned to the First Division, and will report to the commanding officer thereof accordingly. By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. 20 R RYOL XLII~ PT II Page 306 306 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 22, 18649.15 a. m. (Received 10.15.) Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Nothing unusual has transpired along our front line. The cavalry vedettes report quite heavy bodies of the enemy moving in their front betweei~i midnight and 2 a. m. I have sent out to ascertain more in relation to the report. Will forward as soon as received. JKO. G. PARKE, Major. General. [First indorsenient.] I have inquired where, the cavalry vedettes were posted and what direction the enemy were moving, infantry ~r cavalry, & c. A. A. H[UMPIIREYS], Major- General. [Second indorsement.] Major-General IIUMPHREYS: This had better be sent to General Gregg, with directions to inquire into it at once and if there is anything in it to endeavor by an active reconnaissance to ascertain something definite. Urge promptness in investigation and reporting. GEG. G. MEADE Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 22, 186410.20 a.m. Major-General PARKE, C~ommanding Ninth Corps: On what road were the cavalry vedettes? On what road were the enemy moving, and in what direction? Were they cavalry or infantry ~ A. A HLTMPIIREYS Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. (Received 1.20 p. in.) Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: My staff officer has just returned, and reports the whole story of enemy moving along our rear a complete fabrication. It appears the vedette was fired upon about midnight, retired to the infantry picket, and reported to the lieutenant in charge the movement of the enemy. The report then caine regularly up. The fault is that the intermediate commander did not investigate the matter. Two or three of cavalry posts were fired upon during the night, evidently by horse-thieves. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. [Indorsement.] This had better be sent to General Gregg. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General Page 307 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 307 CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 22, 1864. Major-General PARKE: GENERAL: I desire to know, in case of a movement and the leaving the present lines to be held by the redoubts and pickets, what number of men and guns it would reqnire to hold the redonbts and inclosed batteries now held by you around to the Clements house work ~ The picket-line in front should be taken from the garrisons of the works as far as practicable. Having ascertained the nnmbcr of men and guns to hold these works and picket in front, I wish to know what force is left in men and guns for operations elsewhere~ Respectfully, GEO. U. MEADE. iiliajor- General. HEADQUARTER8 NINTH XRMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. Brigadier-General POTTER, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that the slashing along our line be extended as far to the front as practicable. You will please give the necessary directions to have this done on your front. The Fifth Corps will slash theirs first, and directions will be given General Willcox to extend his. Very respectfully, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 22, 186410.30 a. m. Brigadier-General GREGG, Commanding Cacairy: General Parke reports that the cavalry vedettes report quite heavy bodies of the enemy moving in their front bePreen midnight and 2 a. m. The commanding general directs that you inquire into this at once, and if you find that it is well founded that you make a strong recon- naissance and endeavor to asceitaiu what the movement means. The commanding general enjoins prompt inquiry, execution, and report. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 22, 1864. Lient. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: The signal officer at James River tower reports a mortar in position where the light battery was stationed when firing at the tower, north 60 degrees west from signal tower, shelliiig Dutch Gap. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. II. (JLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer Page 308 308 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. FoRT BRADY, VA., October 22, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I havethehonor to reportthat,by reason of being compelled to attend to the fire on the gun-boats, was unable to visit the Gap until late this p. m. Am informed by my sergeant, however, that the rebels have shelled but little and with slight effect. Mr. Lewis sent a few shots at them from the 4.5-inch gun, making very good practice. Pre- sume Mr. Woodruff gave you all particulars of the firing at the rebel boats this forenoon. The wooden one was struck at least fifteen times before she could get out of the way; was evidently somewhat damaged. Iron-dads and all were much frightened and steamed up the river out of sight. Ashbys battery made miserable practice. Regretted that you could not be there. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First 6onnecticut Artillery. SPECIAL ORDERS, ) Hm~RS. FIRST DIV., TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 145. Before Richmond, Va., October 22, 1864. * * * * * * * 3. In pursuance of instructions from headquarters Tenth Army Corps the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers, Capt. T. F. Edmands com- manding, is hereby assigned to garrison duty in the redoubt near Four- Mile Church. In case of action the commanding officer will assume command of the artillery, which may be in the fort, in addition to the infantry, and will be held responsible for the proper defense of the work. By order of Brig. Gen. A.. Ames: CHAS. A. CARLETON, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 22, 1864. Lieut. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. of Va. and N. C.: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that the Eleventh Connecti- cut Volunteers be ordered to report to Colonel Potter, commanding Provisional Brigade, and the Fortieth Massachusetts Volunteers be ordered to report to me for assignment to duty in the First Division of this corps. The Eleventh Connecticut now has about 300 men for duty, and is now on duty as headquarters guard. I wish to make this exchange in order that I may have Col. Guy V. Henry, Fortieth Mas- sachusetts Volunteers, as a brigade commander in the First Division. I would request that all the detailed and detached men of the Fortieth Massachusetts now serving in the department be relieved and sent to me with their regiment. When the exchange is made I will order a regiment of only about ninety men placed on duty as headquarters guard. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General, Commanding Page 309 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 309 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Major FISHER, October 23, 1864. Chief Signal Officer: Stations report unusual quietness in the enemys lines to-day and very little travel on the Boydton plank road. CHAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, ~c. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 23, 18646 p. m. Major FISHER: ilolmans and Jordans stations report all quiet. From the Avery house a quantity of lumber was seen to be unloaded in rear of Crater and in to it, via a covered way. I. THJCKSTUN, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. HDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. ANT) DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, October 23, 1864. Lieut. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Armies of the United States: In obedience to the orders of the lieutenant-general commanding, who directed me to report to him whenever any orders withdrew the troops from the lines in front of this point so that there were less than about 2,500 men, I have to state that I have just received an order from Gen- eral S. Williams which withdraws (to join General Warren) the battal- ion of One hundred and eighty-seventh New York Regiment of about 4b0 men, and that I on yesterday reported to headquarters Army of the Potomac (while stating this order of General Grants) the fact that there was then left me, as the report showed, about 2,592 infantry on these lines. This will, of course, leave upon the lines 2,132 infantry, which consists of regiments and detachments as follows: One regiment, the Two hundred and fifth Pennsylvania, from General Butlers com- mand- one battalion of five companies of the Sixty-first Massachusetts one battalion of five companies of the Eighteenth New Hampshire; one battalion of three companies of the Eighth Delaware, and one independ- ent New York company, which gives the 2,132 men. Of these, two companies of the New Hampshire battalion are only now obtaining their arms. In addition to these, there are the Second Maine Battery of six pieces and about 275 armed men at my headquarters camp of the engineers. The remainder of the engineer recruits are not armed as yet. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 23, 1864. General WILLIAMS: There has been no change in my lines since last report. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General Page 310 310 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 23, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, Gommanding Second Corps: I am requested by the major-general commandiiig to acknowledge the receipt of your confidential communication of yesterdays date, and to say that at present he contemplates holding the line of the Second Corps in the manner proposed in your estimate, and with the Third Division of your corps, which exceeds somewhat the number required by your estimate. He desires to be informed of the shortest time in which the other divisions of your corps can be relieved by the Third Division and the dispositions made for moving those divisions. The acting chief engineer will be directed to put up a battery at the Friend house and erect such other works in rear of the line as may be practicable. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 23, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: In reply to your confidential note of this date, I have the honor to say that the change indicated in it can be made in a single night, but it would be preferable to allow two nights to perfect the changes, especially the proper relief of the picket-lines. One division I propose to mass in the field near the Sonthall house, the other in rear of my beadqmirters. I do not know the reason the Third Division was selected to hold the line. It is proper to say that this division would perhaps be more effective in the field than the First. The latter has a very large proportion of conscripts and new men and fewer experienced subaltern officers. General Miles himself, however, would be a very valuable officer, and I should regret to move without him. It seems to me, however, that under all the circumstances it might be preferable to let General Miles hold the line with his division. Very respectfully, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 23, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, 61ommanding Second Corps: I am instructed to say that the commanding general has no objection to the line being held by your First Division. The Third Division was named because its numbers agreed nearly with those required to hold the line. In the event of your assigning the First Division to that duty, one of its brigades shotild be temporarily detached to the troops that march, or the surplus over and above the number required by your estimate to hold the line should be so detached. The contem- plated movement will take place Wednesday night and Thursday morning, and the commanding general authorizes you to make th Page 311 CHAP. tiv.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 311 necessary changes and arrangement of your troops whenever you con- sider it best. Your two divisions will be required to move on Wednes- day night. The troops that hold the lines will be left with six days full rations. Instructions for the movement, & c., will be sent. A. A. HUMPHREYS, lfajor- General and Chief of Stafl. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October Q~ 186 ~, 48p.m. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Some colored people came in to-night. They lived on the Jerusalem plank road, on the Nottoway. They say they heard that some infantry which was at Stony Creek went away last Sunday toward North Caro- lina. This was to meet some raiding party of ours. The negroes are being sent south to a considerable extent. Very few pickets are now on plank road, the most of their cavalry force having been withdrawn Monday and Tuesday last. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SEcoNn ARMY CORPS, October 23, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CAR~CROSS, Assistant Adjutant General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report the usual amount of artillery firing on the line yesterday. At dark Rogers (Sixth Maine) battery was relieved by the additional sectionof Battery B, First New Jersey, lately received and moved to Fort MeGilvery, relieving Lieutenant Roder, who went into park near the Friend house. The additional section of the Tenth Massachusetts Battery at the same time relieved EdgelPs (First New Hampshire) battery, which is now in park near the Beatty house. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARTY. BRIGADE, SECOND CORPS, No. 177. ~ October 23, 1864. * * * * * * * II. The commanding officer Eleventh New York Battery will at once move the section of his battery which is in Battery No.6 into Fort Mc- Gilvery. III. The commanding officer of the Sixth Maine Battery will at once move one section of his battery from Fort MeGilvery into Battery No. 9, relieving Lieutenant Dauchy, Twelfth New York Battery. IV. Lieutenant Dauchy, Twelfth New York Battery, will on being relieved to-night in Battery No. 9 by a section of the Sixth Maine Bat- tery move his battery into Fort Haskell and relieve Becks batteries (C and I), Fifth U. S. Artillery Page 312 312 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. V. Lieutenant Beck, commanding Batteries C and I, Fifth IT. S. Artillery, on being relieved by Dauchys (Twelfth New York) battery to-night will at once move his pieces out and put them into park with his present park of caissons. By command of Maj. John 0. Hazard: U. D. EDDY, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, Brigadier-General MILES, October 23, 1864. Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to inform you that there are wells and shore galleries under Battery No. 10 which afford means of detecting any attempt of the emeny to mine there. I have questioned these deserters, and it appears probable that only the usual listening galleries have been constructed by the enemy, though they may intend one of them to mine Fort Stedman. There can be no immediate danger. If you will send an officer who will not com- municate any fear to the garrison by conversation into the wells in No. 10 he will be able to hear the enemy if they are at work for a dis- tance of nearly twenty yards with great distinctness. As these men say the enemy do not work at night, there is no use of examining the well till to-morrow. When the engineer officer comes I will go down with him. I dont think there is any reason whatever for alarm. The same reports have been made at intervals since July last. There is at least no immediate danger. Respectfully, C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 23, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report all quiet in my front during yesterday and last night. No change perceptible in enemys position. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 23, 1864. General HUMPHREYS: GENERAL: Nothing unusual has transpired along our lines during the past twenty-four hours. Two deserters from the Fourteenth Ten- nessee came in last night. JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 313 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~TTMGTh 313 HEADQUARTERS MNTH CORPS, October 23, 1864. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL; In reply to your communication of the 22d I have the honor to report the following armament for the redoubts along our line extending from Fisher, on the right, to the Clements house, on the left: Fisher, four guns; Welch, eight guns (Pegram house); Gregg, four guns; Sampson, four guns; Cummings, four guns (Clements house). The present picket-line from our right to the llawks house road has a strength of about 15 officers and 730 men. I would, therefore, rec- ommend an infantry force of about 1,500 men as the minimum to garri- son these five redoubts and picket their front. This would furnish an average garrison of 300 men. The line of infantry parapet from our right to include the Clements house work has a development of about 2,300 yards. having detailed this force from the white troops and the above-mentioned number of guns, we will have available two six-gun batteries, 6,600 white troops (exclusive of the two new regiments), and 4,850 colored troops. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 23, 1864. Brigadier.General POTTER: GENERAL: The commanding general requests me to inform you that two new regiments will be ordered to report to you upon their arrival. The Thirty-ninth New Jersey, with an aggregate of 1,000 men, and the One hundred and eighty-sixth New York, with about 875 men. Very respectfully, yours, P. M. LYDIG, ]Jliajor and Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SECOND DIV., 9TH ARMY CORPS, No. 138. Near Poplar Spring Church, Va., Oct. 23, 1864. The Thirty-ninth New Jersey and the One hundred and eighty-sixth New York Regiments Volunteer Infantry, having been attached, to this command, are hereby temporarily assigned as follows: Thirty-ninth New Jersey Volunteers to First Brigade, and will report to Bvt. Brig. Gen. John I. Curtin, commanding; One hundred and eighty-sixth New York Volnuteers to Second Brigade, and will report to Brig. Gen. S. G. Griffin, commanding. By command of Brigadier-General Potter: SAMUEL WRIGHT, Captain and Assistaat Adjutant- General Page 314 314 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 307. ) in the Field, Va., October 23, 1864. 1. The Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers will proceed to Bermuda Hundred and report to Brigadier-General Graham, relieving the For- tieth Massachusetts Volunteers. The Fortieth Massachusetts Volun- teers will proceed to the front and rejoin the Eighteenth Army Corps. Brigadier-General Graham will cause all the detailed officers and men of the Fortieth Massachusetts Volunteers within his command to be relieved and move with their regiment. 2. Leaves of absence to go out of the department are hereby granted to the following-named officers: * - Brig. Geii. A. V. Kautz, U. S. Volunteers, for twenty days. General Kautz will turn over his com- inand to Colonel West, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- tienerat. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 23, 1864. Colonel ABBOT: Taking into consideration the probability of having to drop your establishment down the river so as to bring it within General Benhams line of defense, how many rounds of ammunition per gun and mortar can you conveniently and safely place in the forts to provide against their being cut off from supplies ~ HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- Ucueral. BROADWAY LANDING, VA.. October 23, 1864. Brigadier-General HUNT, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: My train is all afloat, and it would be better t6 move my depot across the Appomattox, and use the present landing when wanted for Peters- burg and that on other bank for the Bermuda Hundred lines. I think I shall do this anyhow, asit is a warmer site fora camp. The only bridge is here, which is very convenient for such a change. Please say if this would do instead of City Point. I can keep about 100 rounds per gun, and more, if necessary, per mortar, at all the batteries without trouble. HENRY L. ABBOT Colonel First Gonneeticut Artillery. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 23. 1864. Brigadier-General HUNT, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The only Appomnattox bridge is at this landing. This bank is easily defended by a very little work. My ordnance men would furnish al Page 315 CHAP. LIV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 315 needful garrison. Cannot I be supplied with a working party~ I will attend to the construction of the line. I would much prefer this to moving. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. FORT BRADY, VA., October 23, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I was at the Gap during the forenoon and until about 2 p. in. There was no firing by the rebels previous to 11 a. in., when they opened slowly with their Coehorns, bursting the shells over the river near the south end of the parapet where the 100-pounder was formerly in position. Did not deem it policy to return their random firing very rapidly with the 8-inch mortars. After returning to Fort Brady ordered the 4.5-inch gun to be fired at them from the ditch. They became perfectly quiet in abont one hour and a half Received an order to-night from Major~Geneiial Butler to forward a full report of the action with the gun~boats.* Will send you a copy if desired. Accept niany thanks for the drawing. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE. Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, B3ep Bottom, Va., October 23, 1864. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- Genera7, Army of the James: COLONEL: I beg to report the arrival at this post of the One hundred and sixteenth Regiment U. S. Colored Infantry, with an aggregate strength of 704. I have made special report to Captain Sealy, assistant adjutant-general, of the small number of officers accompanying this command. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ARNOLD A. RAND, Colonel Fourth Miassachusetts Cavct lry, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 18641 p. m. Lient. Gen. lIT. S. GRANT: Deserters who caine in last night reported the enemy mining in front of Fort Stedman. An engineer officer and working party were imme- diately sent to take the requisite measures for ascertaining if such was the case. I think the report has arisen like many of its predecessors in some precautionary measures of time enemy (lefensive against oar mining. With this exception I have nothing further to report. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. See Part I, p. 215 Page 316 316 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. lAY. CITY POINT, VA., October 24, 18643 p. m. Major-General MEADE: As 50011 as practicabie after Thursday next send one of your reduced regular regiments to New York City to report to General Dix for duty. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TilE POTOMAC, October 24, 18643 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I find the Tenth Infantry has present 5 officers and 176 enlisted men. This number is so small the regiment can be sent at once to New York if you desire it. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 24, 1864. Major-General MEADE: Order the Tenth U. S. Infantry to proceed to New York City without delay, and report to Maj. Gen. John A. Dix for orders. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies in the Field: GENERAL: With extreme reluctance I find myself compelled to call your attention to the following extract from an article published in the New York Independent of. October 13, 1864: He is the general (myself) who, in the campaign from Ehe Rapidan to the James under Grant, annulled the genius of his chief by his own executive inca- pacity; who lost the prize of Petersburg by martinet delay on the south bank of the James; who lost it again in succeeding contests by tactical incompetence; who lost it again by inconceivable follies of military administration when the mine was exploded; who insulted his corps commanders and his army by attributing to them that inability to co-operate with each other which was traceable solely to the unmilitary slovenliness of their general; who, in a word, holds his place by virtue of no personal qualifications, but in deference to a presumed, fictitious, perverted political necessity, and who hangs upon the neck of General Grant like an old man of the sea, whom he longs to be rid of, and whom he retains solely in deference to the weak complaisance of his constitutional commander-in-chief. Be other voices muzzled, if they must be, ours, at least, shall speak out on this question of enforced military subservience to political, to partisan, to personal requisitions. We, at least, if no others, may declare in the name of a wronged, baffled, indignant army, that its nominal commander is unfit, or unwilling, or incapable to lead it to victory, and we ask that General Grants hands may be strengthened by the removal of Meade Page 317 CHAP. LI~.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 It is not necessary to inquire or surmise what source inspired the foregoing grave bill of indictment, nor would I trouble you in regard to this matter, if this was the first or only instance in which I had cause to complain of misrepresentation, but you are aware that ever since I have had the honor to serve under your inimediate direction I have been held responsible for all the acts which a certain portion of the public press have been pleased to designate as failures or blunders. Indeed, the extract now quoted is an admirable summary of the vari- ous charges which from time to time have been brought against me. Now these charges are either tine or false; in either case the public and those who are near and dear to me are entitled to know the facts. In the absence of any published official reports or any official records, to which I can refer, I feel justified in appealing to you and asking as a matter of justice and a simple concession to truth that you will fur- nish me with such evidence as will place it in my power to correct the extraordinary niisapprehension into which the editor of the New York Independent appears to have been led through some malign influence, the origin of which I am utterly unable to account for. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, VA., October 24, 1864. Major-General MEADE: Your note, by the hands of Lieutenant Dunn, is received. I have felt as much pained as you at the constant stabs made at you by a portion of the public press. I know nothing better to give you to use in answer to these charges than copies of every dispatch sent to Washing- ton by me, in which your name is used. These will show at least that I have never expressed dissatisfaction at any portion of your services. 15. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HDQRS. ARMIES OF TILE UNITED STATES, City Point, Va., October 24, 1864. Maj. Gen. G. G. MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Make your preparations to march out at an early hour on the 27th to gain possession of the South Side Railroad, and to hold it and fortify back to your present left. In commeiicing your advance, move in three columns exactly as proposed by yourself in our conversa- tion of last evening, and with the same force you proposed to take. Parke, who starts out nearest to the enemy, should be instructed that if he finds the enemy intrenched and their works well manned, he is not to attack but confront him, and be prepared to advance promptly when he finds that by the movement of the other two columns to the right and rear of them they begin to give way. Take three days rations in haversacks, sixty rounds of ammunitiomi on the person of each soldier, and go as near as possible without wagons or ambulances. It might be well to have, say, twenty rounds of ammunition per man Page 318 318 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. with a corresponding amount of artillery ammunition in wagons ready to be taken to the army if required. All the depots on the line of the road should be cleared of stores, and all wagons, ambulances, and artillery horses not moving with the army sent back to City Point dur- ing the night of the 26th. I will go out to the left at an early hour of the morning your move commences. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY PoINT, October 24, 1864. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS: Your telegram of the 24th instant, relative to the convalescents, & c., of the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps men in our charge, having been referred to the lieutenant-general commanding, has been returned with the following indorsement: Respectfully returned to General Patrick, provost-marshal-general, with the information that after a careful examination of this matter it is believed to be impracticable to arm the troops within referred to. There are rio officers with the men to. be responsible for the arms, and there arc no arms in the ordnance office except new and first-class arms. You ~ ill communicate these facts to General Meade, and unless he can suggest some practicable plan for carrying his suggestion into effect by you, you will forward these men to Sheridans army as fast as possible. Please advise with General Meade on this matter at once and inform me at the earliest moment practicable of his decision, that I may carry out the instructions of the lieutenant-general commanding with as little delay as possible. A. li. PATRICK, Provost-Marshal- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, october 24, 4864. Brigadier-General PATRICK: The commanding general directs that you order the One hundred and eighty-seventh New York Volunteers to report, with as little delay as practicable, to General Warren, commanding Fifth Army Corps. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERALS DEPARTMENT, October 24, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: Two deserters from Fourteenth Tennessee, Archers bri- gade, and one from Twenty-seventh North Carolina, Cookes brigade, of Heths division, came into the lines of the Ninth Army Corps yester- day. From them we are enabled to locate the enemys right approx Page 319 CHAP. LI~Th] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 319 mately correct and to corroborate previous information on the same point. With a correct map the line could be exactly defined. The following sketch is nearer correct than any printed maps we have: The houses of Dabney and Hawks have been described and located by Skinner, who knows them well. The deserters, having been out with the working parties (one of them as late as last Saturday), recog- nized the houses from Skinners description, and the direction of the works is determined by the fact that they run to the rear of and close to these houses. Working parties are sent oat from the different brigades on the right and are erecting a line of works for a mile or more beyond the line of McGowans brigade. One of informants thinks it is not more than a mile beyond McGowans to where the cavalry are working, but fixes it definitely at 200 yards beyond the Hawks house. A battery is being erected near and to the right of the Hawks house, which has been torn down to clear the range. (See sketch.) Three deserters from the Ninth Florida, Finegans brigade, came into the line~ of the Third Division, Second Army Corps, this a. In. No changes discovered in Mahones division. Also, three deserters from the Forty-ninth North Carolina, Ransoms brigade, Johnsons division, came into Second Army Corps this a. m. They locate their brigade on the enemys extreme left between Norfolk railroad and the Appomattox. No changes discovered in Johnsons division. No general information of importance. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK Page 320 320 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 24, 186410 a. m. Captain PAINE: Owing to the fog and smoke we have so far been unable to see the enemy~s camps or roads. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 24, 18644.30 p. m. Captain PAINE: At 3 p. m. two regiments of the enemys infantry, respectively, about 60 and 200 men, appeared on inspection in works near Jones; other- wise no movements have become visible since last report. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Major FISHER, Chief Signal Officer: Stations report no movements of importance to-day. Small sqnads drilling at work near the R. Jones house and at the fort north 30 de- grees east from the Church road station. CHARLES L. DAVIS, Captain. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 287. 5 October 24, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. Bvt. Brig. Gen. John I. Curtin, U. S. Volunteers, having been assigned to duty with this army by paragraph 2, Special Orders,No. 109, from headquarters Armies of the United States, dated October 22, 1864, will report to Ma,j. Gen. John G. Parke, commanding Ninth Army Corps, for further instructions. 5. The One hundred and eighty-seventh Regiment New York Volun- teers, having reported for duty with this army, is assigned to the Fifth Army Corps, which it will proceed to join with the least delay practi- cable. * * * * * * By command ot Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, As8istant Adjntant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. (Received 4 p. in.) Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Engineer Brigade, d~c.: In answer to your communication of the 22d instant, received last night, I have to say that the commanding general desires that von arm the engineer recruits at once, and that you occupy the redoubts an Page 321 CRAP. MTh] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 321 inclosed batteries with the troops under your command, holding the sur- plus left after assigning the garrisons at suitable points bet~veen those works. The troops thus distributed will, of course, still be used as work- ing 1)arties. The commanding general directs that you send at once a strong working party to report to Col. II. L. Abbot, at Broadway Land- ing, for the purpose of erecting some works to hold that point. He further directs that you prepare the approaches on both banks of the Appomattox at the site selected by you for a pontoon bridge, although at present the necessity of transferring the bridge to that point is not contemplated. In the event of a threatened attack on your intreuch- ments you would have for their defense, besides the troops now under your command, those of the provost-marshal-general at City Point and the enlisted men of the trains that would be collected within your lines. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major-& ~eneral and Chief of Staffi CITY POINT, October 24, 1864. Major-General HUMPITREYS, Chief of Staff: On your order of 12.35, received at 1.50, I sent an aide to take 150 men from the lines to Colonel Abbot. The aide just returned, after waiting till near sunset, reporting no officer there to direct them, and they will return to-night. Colonel Abbot came here, however, and I have arranged to send him, as he wishes about 150 men for three or four days early to-morrow, as also to examine my lines with him for the distribution of the artillery he is to send me. Your second dispatch, received at 4 p. in., will be complied with as nearly as possible. I will arrange to-night or in the early, morning to arm the recruits here and distribute them as directed. I have now here, including the regiment from General Butlers, about 2,100 infantry; of these, three companies are not yet armed. I suppose it is intended that the corduroy road on the north side of the Appomattox, from the Nelson house, shall be con- structed only after the intrenched lines are completed. If otherwise, will you please inform me ~ II. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- 6leneral. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24, 18649 a. in. General S. WILLIAMS: There has been no change in my lines sPice last report. An engineer officer is running a gallery down in Fort Stedman. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel MORGAN: Can you furnish me details to throw up two new batteries, one near the Avery honse and the other between the Dunn house and Friends. 21 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 322 322 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. A~D N. C. [CHAP. LIV. I have directed engineer troops to be sent there at once to construct them. Please answer. If ~Oll can, I will tell the officers in charge to make the necessary requisition for men anti teams. It will not take long to complete them. N. MlCIILEII, ]lliajor of Engineers. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: The signal officer at the Gibbon house reports an unusual quantity of dust rising since 3 p. m. at a point where the military road crosses the Weldon railroad, south-southwest from the city, apparently moving to the enemys right, although it is impossible to be certain of the direction, as it is very smoky. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 24, 1864. Major-General IIUMPIIREYS, Chief of $taff: GENERAL: In the scheme sent to you a few days since there was an error in stating the strength of the First Division, arising from taking the aggregate present instead of the present for duty. The figures should have been 6,809. The other divisions were correctly stated. Will the regiment doing guard duty at Cedar Level be relieved ~ I beg leave to suggestthat the citizens who 6ome in after rations ought either be ratiomied at the picket-line or furnished with a sufficient number of rations to keep them outside of the lines for the I)resent. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, ]lliajor- General of Volunteers. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. S. HANCOCK, Commanding & cond Corps: The commanding general wishes inc to say to you that the regiment at Cedar Level should remain at that depot until it is broken up, and then go within the intrenchments covering City Point, and report to Brigadier-General Benham temporarily. It is understood the regi- ment is small. The troops that take part in the proposed operations will take three days full rations in haversack, and three days bread and small rations in knapsack. Sixty rounds of ammunition will be taken on the person; forty rounds infantry ammunition in wagons. The artillery will take 250 ronnds, using the caissons of the guns in the inclosed works instead of wagons. One-half the ambulances will go with the troops, and one medicine and one hospital wagon for each brigade. The intrenching tools will be taken. No baggage o Page 323 Ca& r. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 323 headquarters wagons will be allowed, but instead such pack animals as may be absolutely necessary for the rations and tents of officers. All other trains and wagons than those just specified will be sent within the intrenchmerits covering City Point under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the army. Clerks, orderlies, and every other inau ou detached, special, extra, or daily duty will be armed and sent to the ranks for this operation unless his services are absolutely neces- sary out of his regiment on the duties named. Arms an(l accouterments will be obtained for this purpose. The horses and such caissons belonging to the artillery in the inclosed works as are not taken with the troops will be moved within the lines of intrenchments covering City Point. An officer from each corps will be detailed to take charge of them, the whole to be parked with the train of the Artillery Reserve under the orders of the officer in charge of that train. The chief of artillery will designat~ the number of forgcs an(1 battery wagons to accompany the batteries with the troops. The surplus will join the Artillery Reserve train under the charge of the officer detailed to the horses, & c., of the guns in the redoubts, & c. This communication is merely intended to be advisory. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: The regiment at Cedar Level will be relieved. All the depots will be broken up. We have no continuous pickets beyond the vicinity of Davenport Church. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. (Received 4.45 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: It is expected that forage for the horses of officers will be carried on pack animals as well as their baggage. Some modification of the amount of artillery ammunition carried will be made. Perhaps a park may be made of the reserve caissons near the left of our present line. Some modification may also be made so as to leave wagons there to bring up rations. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. NOTE.Same as above to Generals Parke amtd Warren. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Under instructions from headquarters Army of the Potonmac, the following disposition of troops is ordered: I. Brigadier-General Miles, commandimmg Virst Division, will take up the line and picket-line from Battery 24, on the left, to the redoubt a Page 324 (CHAP. LIV. 324 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. Spring Hill, relieving the troops of the Second and Third Divisions. General Miles will garrison the inclosed works in accordance with the memorandum furnished him, subject to snch orders as may hereafter be given. The surplus of troops of his division will be held in reserve. On being relieved the Third Division will be massed in the cleared ground near the Southall house. The Second Division will be massed near Fort Bross, on the Norfolk railroad. II. The chief of artillery will arrange the field guns on the line in accordance with the memorandum furuished him. Such batteries of the corps as are already in reserve, or may be withdrawn from the line under this order, will be parked beyond the view of the enemy, and where they can be moved without being observed. III. The commanders of the Second and Third Divisions will send staff officers to report to General Miles at dayk for assisting in the relief of the picket-hues. IV. The changes indicated will be commenced at dark, and all troops moving from the line must be massed beyond the view of the enemy by daylight on the morning of the 25th. B.y command of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CARNCIROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, October 24, 18G4. Major HAZARD, Chief of Artillery, Second Corps: It is understood that Major Miebler expects to throw up a work near the Avery house to take the place of No. 17. If this is done Pratts guns will probably be placed in it, or else the battery can be left where it is if General Hancock will inclose it and furnish a garrison, if neither of these things is done, the guns should go into Fort Morton. I will see if Colonel Abbot can spare you two 8-inch howitzers for Fort Sedgwick. HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General. ITDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24, 18G4. Maj. SEPTIMIJS CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that last night a section of the Eleventh New York Battery was moved out of Battery No. ( and into Fort McGilvery. A section of the Sixth Maine Battery moved from Fort MeGilvery into Battery No. 9, relieving the Twelfth New York Battery, which moved into Fort Haskell, relieving four guns of Bat- teries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, which went into park near the Beatty lionse. One section of Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, was relieved in Fort Davis by a section of the Third New York, Cap- tain flarn, and went into park with the rest of the battery. Nothing else of importance occurred during the past twenty-four hours. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding Page 325 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIOI{. 325 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM WILSON, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: The brigadier-general commanding directs that you cause all the old works in front of Fort Stedman that obstruct the fire of the guns in the fort to b.e destroyed to-night by the garrison of the fort. The pioneer officer at these headquarters will furnish the necessary tools. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. H. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER FIRST BRIGADE: The brevet major-general commanding directs that you have all your available men report at once in front of headquarters Second Brigade for the purpose of cutting more of the timber in front of Fort Alexander Hays. The men will take all the axes they can get and the balance will be supplied from these headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 24, 18649 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Assista~~t Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance transpired in my front yesterday or last night6 All was quiet. The battalion of the One hundred and eighty-eighth Regiment New York Volunteers, Major Davison commanding, arrived in the night and has been assigned to Griffins division. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. CONFIDENTIAL.1 HEADQITARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Major-General WARREN, Commanding F~fth Corps: I am instructed to inform you that the contemplated movement will take place Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Orders to that effect will be duly issued. In the meantime the commanding general directs that the troops which are to hold the redoubts and inclosed batteries on the line of the Fifth Corps from Battery 24 to Fort Cona- hey and picket the front be assigned and l)Osted. The number required for this duty by your estimate is 2,200; the number of guns thirty-two. This arrangement being made, the rest of your troops and artillery will be massed at convenient points for movement, out of view of the enemy. I have to state for your information that the troops left in the lines should have with them six days full rations, and the ammu- nition. for artillery and infantry previously I)rescribed. The troops that march will take three days full rations in haversacks, and thre Page 326 326 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. days bread and small rations in knapsacks. Three days beef will be driven. Sixty rounds of ammunition on the person; forty rounds infantry ammunition in the wagons. The artillery will take 250 rounds, using the caissons of the guns in the inclosed works instead of wagons. One-half the ambulances will go with the troops, and one medicine and one hospital wagon for each brigade. The intrenching tools will be taken. No baggage or headquarters wagons will be allowed, but instead such pack-mules as may be absolutely necessary for the rations and tents of officers. All other trains and wagons than those just speci- tied will be sent within the intrenchments covering City Point, under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the army. Clerks, order- lies, and every other man on detached, special, extra, or daily duty, will be armed and sent to the ranks for the operation, unless his serv- ices are absolutely necessary out of his regiment on the duties named. Arms and accouterments will be obtained for the purpose. The horses and such caissons belonging to the artillery in the inclosed works as are not to be taken with the troops will be moved within the line of intrenchments covering City Point. An officer from each corps will be detailed to take charge of them. The whole to be parked with the traiim of the Artillery Reserve under the orders of the officer in charge of that train. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. The chief of artillery will designate the number of forges and battery wagons to accompany the batteries with the troops. The surplus will join the Artillery Reserve train under the charge of the officer detailed to the horses, & c., of the guns in the redonbts, & c. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. P. 5.Forage for officers horses will be carried on pack animals. The spring-wagons of headquarters are not to accompany the troops. Some modification of the amount of artillery ammunition carried will be made, and some modification may also be made so as to leave wagons parked there to bring up rations. A.A.II., Major- General and Chief of Stafi. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY Conps, October 24, 1864. General HUMPHREYS: It would be desirable to have General Griffin here when the move- ment is made, and he can be telegraphed in time yet, I think. If you would not like to inform him there is a movement on foot, the dispatch might be sent as coming from me as follows: Brig. Gen. ChARLES GmurrlN: (Care of Colonel Hardie.) GENERAL: Affairs in yonr divisiou require your immediate return for a few days. G. K. WARREN, Major- General of Volunteers. If you approve this dispatch being sent, will you please have it done. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General of Volunteers Page 327 CHAP. LTV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 327 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POToMAC, October 24, 1864. Lient. Col. F. T. LOCKE: In what division is the battalion of the Twenty-second Massachusetts Volunteers ~? Has it been consolidated ~ If so, with what 0? Does it retain its designation as Twenty-second Massachusetts Volunteers? GEO. G. HASTINGS, Major and Acting Judge-Advocate. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 24, 1864. Major HASTINGS, Acting Judge-Advocate, Army of the Potomac: The Twenty-second Massachnsetts Battalion is in First Division. Has not been consolidated. Retains its designation. FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 18647 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Brig. Gen. CHARLES GRIFFIN: (Care of Colonel Hardie.) Affairs in your division reqnire yonr immediate return for a few days. G. K. WARREN, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, )~ HE& DQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 265. S October 24, 1864. I. The battalion of the Onehundred arid eighty-eighth Regiment New York Volunteers, having reported in compliance with Special Orders, No. [285], headquarters Army of the Potomac, is assigned to the First Division, and will report to the general commanding for assignment to a brigade. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIRST DIvISION, FIFTH CORPS, No. 151. 5 - October 24, 1864. * * * * * * * 2. Bvt. Brig. Gen. E. M. Gregory, having reported in compliance with paragraph 6, Special Orders, No. 264, headquarters Fifth Army Corps, is assigned to the command of the Second Brigade. 3. The battalion of the One hundred and eighty-eighth Regiment New York Volunteers, having reported in accordance with Special Orders, No. 265, headquarters Fifth Corps, is assigned to the Second Brigade, General Gregory commanding. * * * * - * By command of Brigadier-General Bartlett: GEO. MONTEITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 328 328 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 18G4. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corp8: I am directed to inform you that the contemplated movement will take place Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Orders to that effect will be duly issued. In the meantime the commanding general directs that the troops which are to hold the redoubts and inclosed bat- teries on the line of the Ninth Corps from Fort Fisher to Fort Cuin- mings (Clement house), and picket the front in that space, b~ assigned and posted. The number required for this duty by your estimate is 1,500 men and 24 guns. This arrangement being made, the rest of your troops and artillery will be massed at convenient points for move- ment, out of view of the enemy. I have to state for your information that the troops left in the lines should have with them six days full rations, and the ammunition for artillery and infantry previously pre- scribed. The troops that march will take three days full rations in haversacks, and three days bread and small rations in knapsacks. Three days beef will be driven. Sixty rounds of ammunition will be taken on the person; forty rounds infantry ammunition in wagons. The artillery will take 250 rounds, using the caissons of the guns in the inclosed works instead of wagons. One-half the ambulances will go with the troops, and one medicine and one hospital wagon for each brigade. The intrenching tools will be taken. No baggage or head- quarters wagons will be allowed, but instead such l)ack animals as may be absolutely necessary for the rations and tents of officers. All other trains and wagons than those just specified will b~ sent within the intrenchments covering City Point, under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the army. Clerks, orderlies, and every other man on detached, special, extra, or daily duty, will be armed and sent to the ranks for this operation, unless his services are absolutely necessary out of his regiment on the duties named. Arms and accouterments will be obtained for this purpose. The horses and such caissons belongiiig to the artilleryinthe inclosed works as are not taken with the troops will be moved within the line of intrenchment covering City Point. An officer from each corps will be detailed to take charge of them. The whole to be parked with the train of the Artillery Reserve nuder the orders of the officer in charge of that train. The chief of artillery will designate the number of forges and battery-wagons to accompany the batteries with the troops. The surplus will join the artillery reserve train under the charge of the officer detailed to the horses, & c., of the guns in the redoubts, & c. With the exception of the first paragraph, this communication is intended to be merely advisory. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. NoTE.The same dispatch as the above was sent to General Warren, except that his front was designated as from Battery No. 24 to Fort Conahey. A.A.II. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, Peebles House, Ira., October 24, 1864. COMMANDINO- OFFICER THIRD NEW JERSEY CAVALRY: COLONEL: I wish to make some mention of an act of gallantry that was performed by Sergeant Doyle, of your regiment, during the actio Page 329 CHAP. LIV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 329 of the 3d of June, 1864, near Bethesda Church. My command was on the extreme right of the army and had by an attack of the enemy become separated from General Wilsons division of cavalry, which was guarding that flank. I wished to communicate with General Wil- son, and Sergeant Doyle volunteered to carry the dispatch; this he did and returned in safety, bringing back General Wilsons answer, having passed twice through the enemys lines and rendering an important military service. This act of Sergeant Doyles proved him to be an en ergetic and courageous soldier, and worthy of the respect of his comrades and the approbation of his officers. I remain, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,~ JNO. G. PA1~KE, ]lfajor- General, Commanding. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Division commanders will be prepared to carry out the following instructions in the event of a movement being ordered: 1. Troops remaining to garrison line of works and l)icket th ~ front from Fort Fisher to Fort Cummings will be supplied with six days rations aUd amount of ammunition previously prescribed (200 rounds per man). 2. The troops, except those selected to remain for purpose above indicated, will be massed at convenient points for movement out of view of the enemy. 3. The troops that march will have three days full rations in haver- sack and three days bread and small rations in knapsack, sixty rounds of ammunition on the person, and forty rounds per man in wagons. Three days beef will be driven. 4. Half the ambulances, one hospital and one medicine wagon to a brigade, and the intrenching tools will be taken. 5. No baggage or headquarters wagons will be taken, but instead such pack animals as may be absolutely necessary to carry the rations, tents and baggage of officers., and forage for officers horses. 6. All other trains and wagons than those above specified will be sent within the intrenchments covering City Point. 7. Clerks, orderlies, and every other man on detached, special, extra, or daily duty will be armed and sent to the ranks, unless his services are absolutely necessary out of his regiment on the duties named. By command of Major-General Parke: P. M. LYDIG, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Col. J C. TIDEALL, - Chief of Artillery: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that in the event of a movement being ordered you be prepared to carry out the following instructions: 1. You will designate the batteries to remain to hold the red oubts and inclosed works from Fort Fisher to Fort Cummings, with amount of ammunition previously prescribed and six days rations (twenty-four guns to hold the works) Page 330 330 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. 2. The remaining artillery will be massed at a convenient point for movement out of view of the enemy. 3. The a;rtillery that moves will take 250 rounds of ammunition, using the caissons of the guns in the inclosed works instead of wagons, the men to be supplied with three days hill rations in haversack and three days bread and small rations in knapsack. Three days beef to be driven. 4. Horses and caissons belonging to artillery in inclosed works, not taken with the troops, will be moved inside the intrenchments covering City Point, to be parked with train of Artillery Reserve. 5. You will designate the number of forges, battery wagons, & c., to accompany batteries with the troops; surplus to join Artillery Reserve train under charge of the officer to be detailed to take charge of horses, & c., of the guns in the redonbts. The following modifications of the above may be made: (1) Perhaps a l)ark may be made of the reserve caissons near the left of our present line, and the horses of your batteries in the inclosed works may also be kept near the left so as to bring up the batteries if needed. (2) A change in the amount of ammunition to be carried may be made, and some wagons, perhaps, may be parked near the left to bring up rations. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. M. LYDIG, Major and As8istant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SECOND Div., 9TH ARMY CORPS, No. 139. s Near Poplar Spring Church, Va., October 24,1864. Bvt. Brig. Gen. John I. Curtin, U. S. Volunteers, having reported for orders in compliance wit~i paragraph 7, Special Orders, No. 211, current series, headquarters Ninth Army Corps, is liereby assigned to command of First Brigade, Second Division, Yinth Ar my Corps. By command of Brigadier-General Potter: SAMUEL WRIGHT, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Brigadier-General GREcf~, Commanding Cavalry, Army of the Potomac: I am instructed to inform you that a movement will commence on Wednesday night in which all your cavalry will participate. It will be necessary for you to draw in all your pickets. Orders for the prep- aration and movement will be duly issued. The infantry will take three days full rations in haversacks, and three days bread and small rations in knapsacks, and three days beef on the hoof. The cavalry will do the samethat is, three days full and three days bread and small rations on the person, and three days beef on the hoof; as much ammunition as they can carry on the person and the full remaining supply in wagons. The full supply of artillery ammunition must accom- pany the artillery. One-half the ambulances will go with the troops all(l one medicine and one hospital wagon for each brigade. No bag- gage or headquarters wagons will be allowed, but instead such pac Page 331 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNJON. 331 mules as may be absolutely necessary for the rations and tents of offi- cers. All other trains and wagons than those just specified will be sent within the intrenchments covering City Point under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the army. Clerks, orderlies, and every other man on detached, special, extra, or daily duty will be armed and sent to the ranks for this operation, unless his services are absolutely necessary out of his regiment on the duties named. Arms and accouterments will be obtained for this purpose. If one of the forges and one of the battery wagons can be dispensed with they will be sent to the train of the Artillery Reserve within the intrenchments covering City Point. Such forage wagons as are indispensably necessary may be taken This communication is merely intended to be advisory. A. A. HUMPUREYS, Major. General and Chief of staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Chief of AS1taff Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: In the preparation for a movement it will scarcely be possible foil the cavalry to carry on their persons three days bread and small rations in addition to the three days rations in the haversacks. Each trooper will carry twenty pounds of forage, which will last three days. There is no place that a cavalry soldier can carry extra rations, his haversack being full. I will manage to have four days carried in the haversacks, and these rations will last five days. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MoM. GREGG, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding Second Division. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Brigadier-General GREo~, 6~ommanding Cavalry, Army of the Potomac: Instead of all the small-arm ammunition in wagons one-half only will probably be taken with you. Your reserve artillery ammunition may perhaps be parked on our present left, if a park should be formed there for the infantry corps. No spring-wagons will go with the troops. As much forage should be taken on the animals as practicable. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT VA Maj. Gen, B. F. BUTLER, , ., October 24, 1864. Commanding Army of the James: On Thursday morning, the 27th instant, General Meade will move from our left, with the design of seizing and holding the South Side Railroad. To facilitate this movement, or rather to prevent re-enforce- ments going from the north side of James River to Petersburg. I wish you to demonstrate against the enemy in your front, substantially as we talked the matter over last evening and as you proposed. I do not want any attack made by you against intrenched and defended pos Page 332 332 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. tions, but feel out to the right beyond the front, and, if you can, turn it. Have your men go with three days rations in their haversacks, sixty rounds of ammunition on their persons, and as near without wagons and ambulances as it is possible to go. It probably will be well to move all transportation, not absolutely necessary with the army, to the south side of the James. This need not take place before your move- ment of Thursday, but should commence in the morning with your movement. Let it be distinctly understood by corps commanders that there is to be no attack made against defended, intrenched positions. They should also have their commands fully instructed as to the possi- bility of the enemy moving out from their right on the James to attack in flank or rear. This demonstration on the part of the enemy is not likely to occur, but should be guarded against, and should be taken advantage of if attempted. Your cavalry, I believe, is not now well commanded. If it was, and the opportunity occurred, I would favor sending that to the Central road, to destroy as much track as possible. and return t~ the James River, in rear of your army. As it is, I will leave this to your judgment, whether the trip can be made; you being present with your army can form a judgment after the first few hours of your movement as to the expediency of attempting this. I shall myself be with the forces on our extreme left. Such dispatches as you may want to send to me through the day or days we may be out will reach me by courier from the headquarters of the Ninth Army Corps. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 139. ) In the Field, October 24, 1864. The transaction of business at these headquarters is constantly im- peded by the inexcusable delay of subordinate officers in furnishing information required of them. This is true both in regard to regular returns and reports, and those specially called for. Both promptitude and accuracy are peremptorily required, and no excuse will be considered valid except that the troops are actually in action at the time. The fact that the men are engaged in fortifying or intrenching will not be accepted as an excuse for remissness of their officers, which must be chargeable simply to laziness and inattention. Officers are once for all warned of the strict responsibility to which they will be held. By command of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTII CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, Qetober 24, 1864. Lient. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff COLONEL: The signal officer at Cobbs Hill reports at 11.30 a. um. that since daylight three trains had passed toward Petersburg and one toward Richmond. On account of the smoke lie was unable to tell the number, kind, or contents. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. R. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N. C Page 333 Cnxr. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 333 IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 24, 1864. Lient. Col. 0-. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer stationed on a tree in front of the Tenth Corps makes the following report of his observations to-day: The enemy are bnsy removing timber felled in front of interior rifle-pits connect- ing with Fort Johnson and extending along to our left of it; also increasing the height of breast-works near Fort Johnson. A large battle-flag on tbe works to onr left of Fort Johnson; also a garrison flag near a honse beyond same fort. Three lines of abatis in front of the work on our left of Johnson. A large nnmber of women in the rebel camps dnring the day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAML. N. ROGERS, Lieutenant, Signal Officer. H. H. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24, 1864. Colonel ABBOT, Broadway Landing: General lVleade has in view the removal of the bridge below General Benhams lines, but will send General B. to see about a t~te-de-pout at your place. General M. wishes you to place ten siege pieces at Gen- eral Benhams disposal for his lines. The kind of pieces you can arrange with him. It would be well for you to put at least 150 rounds per gun in each fort, so as to be secure against the contingency of the supply being interrupted, and to make your arrangements for with- drawing such mortars on the lines as will not be safe if the forts only should remain occupied. I think the 8-inch mortars near forts like those at Hare house, for example. will be perfectly safe. HENHY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 24, 1864. Brigadier.General HUNT, ifead quarters Army of the Potomac: Pratts battery of four 4k-inch guns in No. 17 and the four 8-inch mortars in No.20 are the only ones requiring movement. These should be attended to. Of course you will send me orders when you wish me to move them. I will attend to the supply of ammunition. How is it about rations ~ I supply my men and would like notice accordingly. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, October 24, 1864. Colonel ABBOT, Broadway Landing: The garrisons should have ten days rations. I will give you notice in time to supply them and to withdraw your mortars in No. 20. If no new work is put up near the Avery house and No. 17 is not inclosed and furnished with a garrison, the guns must be withdrawn and sent to Morton. Major Hazard wants a section of them at Fort Davis Page 334 334 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. Major H. also asks for two 8-inch howitzers for Fort Sedgwick, vice a field battery (less than I have recommen(Ied for that work), but which cannot be spared. Can you give him them with the necessary amount of ammunition ~ If you do, will you be able to furnish men to serve them ~ HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General. BROADWAY LANDING, VA.,. October 24, 1864. Brigadier.General HUNT, Head q~arter8 Army of the Potomac: If it he necessary to put a section of 44 Inch guns in Fort Davis I would suggest to put one of Pratts there, and the other with two mor- tars for ditch service in Fort Sedgwick instead of the siege howitzers. It would be very hard to serve the latter there, because mantlets could hardly be used from their extreme shortness. By the above arrange~ ment no extra men would be necessary. The plan of putting heavy guns in these batteries will entail great difficulty of supplying ammu- nition, but if necessary it can, of course, be done. HENRY L. ABBOT Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 24, 1864. Brigadier-General HUNT, Head quarters Army of the Potomac: I have seen General Benham. He has no heavy artillery soldiers. I have none not in use. Please, therefore, assign two good companies to my command to serve the ten guns. I would like some of the Fouuth New York if they can be had. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 24, 1864. Lieutenant MICITIE, Chief Emgineer, Headquarters Army of the James: You will greatly oblige me if you will request General Butler to allow me to move the mortars from Dutch Gap to Fort Brady, where they will be more efficient by far, and the light guns to this landing, where a new fort is to be put up. They do no service at the gap which a section of light artillery could not better perform. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS, October 24,1864. Colonel ABBoT: Inclosed please find a dispatch from Lieutenant Michie to me. It is referred for your action: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, October 24, 18647.50 jp. m. Colonel PIPER: Will yoa order the S-inch mortars now at Dutch Gap to be removed to Fort Brady on Coxs Hill. They will do more execution there thau where they are at present Page 335 Cn~n. LIV.] CORRESPONDENOB, ETC.UNION. 335 and it will not divide the detacbment that serves both. The light guns at the Gap can be sent back to Colouel Abbot and their place supplied by the 41-inch rifles now at Fort Brady, if necessary. I think, however, it is a useless waste of ammuni- tion to fire anything at the rebel mortar batteries. P. S. MICHIE, Lieutenant, U. S. Engineers. A. PIPER, Colonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery. FORT BRADY, VA., October 24, 1864. Col. II. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: 1 have the honor to report that not a shot was fired by the enemy at the Gap to-day until after 11 a. in., when they opened sud- denly and fired very rapidly for an hour and a half or more. by (a splendid soldier) was killed about noon. Most of their shell struck in and around my right mortar battery. This afternoon they commenced in the same hurried manner, doing no damage. Returned their fire with the mortars and the 4.5-inch gun. Earnestly request to have the 4.5-inch guns exchanged for the 30-pounder Parrotts, if the latter should ever be removed from their present position; the ammunition is so much surer. Handed in my report* to General Butler, and he seemed very much pleased with the whole affair; forwarded it to General Grant himself. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, H. II. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, October 24, 1864. Lieut. Col. W. J. L. NICODEMIJS, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: COLONEL: In reply to your request that I would express an opinion upon the value and efficiency of the signal corps, I have the honor to say that in the Department of the South, where I served for nearly two years and a half; the signal corps was of great value, especially in es- tablishing communication between land and naval forces operating together. I think it must always be of value in hilly or mountainous regions or in open country. In thickly wooded country it is, of course, difficult to establish good communication. As far as I have become acquainted with the personnel of the corps the officers are very efficient and faithful in the performance of duty. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED II. TERRY, Brevet Major- & !eneral, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 24, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel KENSEL, Chief of Staff: I wish to heaven you would immediately let me kn~w at once who is responsible for and who commands the artillery in my front and on my *Sec Part I, p. 215 Page 336 336 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. Liv. left on this side of the river. The guns at Dutch Gap have never been reported to me nor have II had the least control of them. Still, to- night Michie sends an order to my chief of artillery to change their position. Again, three 30-pounders and my Parrott battery of four 20- pounders were placed in position in front of my line. The command- ing officer of the three 30-pounders, who never reported to me and whom I dont know, presumes to command my 20-pounder Parrott bat- tery. Now what I desire is this, that you should issue an order at once that I command and control all guns belonging to the Eighteenth Corps on my front and that Colonel Abbot controls all othersthat is, his siege guns and mortars. I am perfectly willing that my other guns on the old front be commanded by General Graham. This is so far a wretchedly mixed up matter and ought to be settled at once. 0-. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATThA FORCES, Deep Bottom, 17a., October 24, 1864. Capt. ISRAEL R. SEALY, - Assistant Adjutant- General, & c., Hdqrs. Army of the JarneR: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the arrival at this post of the One hundred and eighteenth Regiment U. S. Colored Infantry. A memorandum return received from them shows: Enlisted men present, 871; absent sick, 76; absent without leave, 63; total, 1,010. The lieutenant-colonel was left in Baltimore, it seems, and the major com- manding is unable to give nine any roster of the regiment. The only officers, however, who have reported and are present for duty are as follows: Major, three captains, four first lieutenants, four second lieu- tenants (one acting adjutan.t and one acting regimental quartermaster included in the four second lieutenants), one surgeon, one assistant sur- geon. Unless officers can be speedily assigned to the regiments now here I would respectfully request that competent non-commissioned officers or men be detailed from white regiments to instruct squads in the school of the soldier. I am, -captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ARNOLD A. RAND, Colonel Fourth Massachusetts Cavalry, Commanding Post. CITY POINT, VA., October 25, 18644.30 p. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, AS~ecretary of War: I have no objection to permitting every French subject in the South, or in fact evemy foreigner, no matter what his nationality, to pass out North, or to their native country, via City Point. Please so inform the Secretary of State. U. S. 0-RANT, Lieutenant- General Page 337 ChAP. LIV.] CORRESPOYDENCE, ETC.UNION. 337 Wu~ DEPARTMENT, October 25, 1864. Lent. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding U. S. Armies, City Point, Va.: I propose to issue the following order for the organization of an extra army corps. Please examine and favor me with any suggestions you may have immediately. I want to give public notice immediately and hope to raise it by 1st of December: VVAR DEPARTMENT, October 25, 1864. Ordered, That an army corps, to consist of not less than 20,000 infantry, and enlisted for not less than one year, to be designated the First Corps, shall be organized at Washington, commencing the organization on Wednesday, the 9th day of November, and continuing nntil the 1st day of IJecember. The privates to consist only of able-bodied men, who have served honorably not less than two years, and therefore not subject to draft; the officers to be commissioned by the President from such as have honorably served not less than two years. The accepted reernits will be refunded their transportation to Washington, will be credited to the district in which they or their families are domiciled, and will be paid a special bounty of $500 upon being mustered into service. Each recruit who preserves his arms to the end of his term will have the privilege of retaining theni. Details of organization will be prescribed by the adjutant-general. The heads of bureaus will detail competent officers for the prompt examination and organization, arming, equipping, and sup- plying the corps. Major-General Hancock is assigned to the command of this corps when organized. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CITY POINT, VA., October~ 25, 1864. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary ~f War: Your dispatch of 2 p. m. in relation to the organization of a new army corps from veterans who have been discharged the service is received. I do not see any suggestiofis I can make improving the plan proposed by you. It will prove a success and will give us a body of men equal to any army now in service. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Genera~. CITY POINT, October 25, 1864. Major-General MEADE: Mr. Itomero, the Mexican minister, and General Doblado, with a staff officer, will visit your headquarters to-day with letters for you. They leave here in the 10.55 train. ADAM BADEAU, Lieutenant- Colonel and Jllilitary Secretary. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 186412 m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have nothing very important to report this morning. Signal officers yesterday evening and this morning report movements of small bodies of the enemy, generally to their right. Deserters confirm the previous 22 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 338 U 338 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. reports of the extension of the enemys line of works on their right to Hatchers IRan, and the evidence would seem to indicate this line is completed. Last evening two divisions of the Second Corps were with- drawn from the lines and are now massed in the rear as reserves. GEG. G. MEADE, ]Jfwjor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 25, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of & aff. GENERAL: A deserter from the Twenty-seventh North Carolina, Cookes brigade, came into our lines this ntorning. His statements corroborated the information of yesterday regarding th~ position of McGowans, Cookes, and Archers brigades. He states that working parties from every brigade in Heths division have been detailed to work on fortifications still farther to the right of McGowans brigade. Thathe has been nearly two miles to the right of his brigade (Cookes), where the detail from his regiment was at work. The dismounted cav- alry is immediately on McGowans right. The works are not of an extensive character, but arc all constructed with slashings or abatis. In McGowans front they arc fully completed, and informant thinks the whole line must be nearly finished by this time. No general informa- tion of any importance. Yer~ respectfally, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 25, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The following reports, just received, are respectfully for- warded: Cuuncn ROAD STATION, October 25, 18649 a. m. At 7.45 a. m. the two regiments lying in works near Jones struck tents and packed up. A small working party of about twenty men left them and went westward along the works. At S a. m. a small regiment passed alon,, the works near Jones going eastward; mounted officers have rolled blankets on their horses. These two regiments still remain in works near Jones. J. L. PERAY], Signal Corps. The station near the Friend house reports the enemy to be strength- ening the breast-works in his front; to have built a covered road be- tween the new fort and their works to right of city and bomb-proofs in the fort. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servan t, WM. S. STRYKER, Acting Chief Signal Officer Page 339 CHAP. LIV.) CORRESPONDENCE,. ETC.UNION. 339 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. Major FISHER: This a. m. a working party has been engaged strengthening the picket-posts near the Bailey. house and a party of twenty-five has been similarly engaged near the site of the W. W. Davis house, strengthen- ing the pits there with logs and enlarging them. Unusual cheering in the enemys camps on the Duncan road and near the R. Jones house. CHAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, & c. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. Lieutenant STRYKER: I have seen Sergeant Jordan and learn that he observed a dust on the road mentioned. The dust extended from a quarter to half a mile but he was unable to discover any movement or tell from which direc- tion the dust originated. It was near dark and very hazy. He merely stated that the dust was there but could give no opiniou at all in refer- ence to it. R. P. STRONG, Signal Officer. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 25, 18645.30 p. m. Captain PAINE: Those troops before reported in works near Jones have encamped on that ground. At 2 p. m. one regiment was drilling in open field near Boisseans. Nothing farther has become visible since last report. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. (Also sent to Capt. C. L. Davis.) HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 25, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: My stations report no movements seen to-day. The enemy at some points caine out in line this morning as if about to strike their camp, but afterward quietly dispersed to their quarters. Considerable cheering in the enemys lines along the Duncan road and near the H. Jones house this p. m. Very respectfally, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac Page 340 0 340 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV~ CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 1864. The instructions contained in the accompanying order will be re- garded by those receiving the order as confidential, especially those portions that relate to an attack upon the enemy~5 lines. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjataut- General. [Inclosure.] ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 1864. The following movements are ordered: 1. The troops assigned to holding the intrenchments during the oper- ations on our left will be supplied with not less than six days full rations from Thursday, the 27th instant, and the prescribed amount of artillery and infantry ammunition. 2. On the afternoon of the 26th instant (Wednesday) Major-General Hancock, commanding Second Corps, will move the divisions of his corps now in reserve to the Vaughan road just outside the line of rear intrenchments. They will take routes well to the rear so as to avoid the observation of the enemy, and every precaution will be taken dur- ing the night to conceal the movement. At 2 a. m. of the 27th General Hancock will move by the Vaughan road, cross Hatchers Run, pass by Dabneys Mill and Wilson and Arnolds steam saw-mill on the Boydton plank road; cross the open country to. Claibornes road near its inter- section with the White Oak road, and, recrossing Hatchers Run near the Claiborne road bridge, will take the road running northeast from the vicinity of the bridge to the South Side Railroad, and endeavor to seize a commanding position on that road. In this operation General Greggs cavalry will form part of General Hancocks command and will move on his left. General Hancock will probably be able to reach the Boydton plank road by the time General Parke attacks the enemys right between Claypoles and Hatchers Run. 3. General Gregg will concentrate his cavalry on the afternoon of the 26th instant (Wednesday) at some point toward the left convenient for crossing Hatchers Run by the first route below that used by Hancocks infantry, and which shall not disclose the movement to the observation of the enemy. Every precaution will be taken to conceal the movement. His pickets from the vicinity of the plank road westward will be relieved in time to accompany him on the morning of the 27th. Upon concen- trating his command he will report to Major-General Hancock. Gen- eral Gregg will move on the morning of the 27th (Thursday), not later than 2 oclock, cross Hatchers Run below the Second Corps and move on the left of the infantry, probably using the Quaker road as far as the Boydton plank. His route must be governed by that of the Second Corps. 4. Major-General Parke, commanding Ninth Corps, will move at such hour of the morning of the 27th as will enable him to attack the right of the enemys infantry, between Hatchers Run and their new works at Hawks and Dabneys, at the dawn of day. It is probable that the enemys line of intrenchments is incomplete at that point, and the com- manding general expects, by a secret and sudden movement, to surprise them and carry their half-formed works. General Parke will therefore move and attack vigorously at the time named, not later thau 3.30 Page 341 Cliii. LIV.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 341 and, if successful, will follow up the enemy closely, turning toward the right. Should he not break the enemys line, General Parke will remain confronting them until the operations on the left draw oft the enemy. 5. Major-General Warren, commanding Fifth Corps, will, if practi- cable, move simultaneously with the Ninth Corps, and proceed to the crossing of Hatchers Run, below the plank road bridge, from which point he will support the Ninth Corps, and if the attack is successful, follow up the enemy, moving on the left of the Ninth Corps. Should General Parke fail to break the enemys line General Warren will cross Hatchers Run and endeavor to turn the enemys right by recrossing at the first practicable point above the Boydton plank road, keeping on the right of Hancock. He will then turn toward the plank road and open the plank-road bridge. 6. The ammunition wagons, extra caissons, intrenching tools, medi- cine and hospital wagons and forage wagons allowed with the troops will not accompany them on the morning of the 27th, but will be left parked at the most secure point near their bivouacs~ and will be bronght up at such time during the day as may be found best. The ambulances will accompany the troops. ~. The troops will take four days full rations on the person, counting from Thursday morning, the 27th. Sixty rounds of ammu- nition will be taken on the person. Forty rounds of infantry am- mnnition, - and one-half the small-arm ammunition of the cavalry will be taken in wagons. Jim addftion to the artillery ammunition car- ried in the limber chest and caisson, fifty additional rounds will be taken for each 12-pounder gun, to be carried in the caissons of the guns in the inclosed works. Not more than one forge and one battery wagon will be taken for every twelve guns. One-half the ambulances, with all the stretchers, will accompany the troops, and one medicine and one hospital wagon for each brigade. The intrenching tools will be taken. No baggage or headquarters wagons will be allowed, but instead such pack animals as may be absolutely necessary for the rations and tents of officers. A few wagons for forage will be allow~d. In the cav- aIry each trooper will carry as much grain as practicable; such forage wagons as are absolutely indispensable for the time of the operation will also be allowed for the cavalry. All other trains and wagons than those just specified will be sent during the night of Wednesday, the 26th, within the intrenchments covering City Point, under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the army. 8. The horses and such caissons belonging to the artillery in the inclosed works as are not taken with the troops will be moved during Wednesday night within the intrenchments covering City Point. An officer from each corps will be detailed to take charge of them; the whole to be parked with the train of the Artillery Reserve under the orders of the officer in charge of that train. The surplus forges and battery wagons of the batteries with the troops will accompany them. 9. The quartermasters and commissary depots on the railroad will be broken up during the night of the 26th. 10. Every man on detached, special, extra, or daily duty that can be temporarily placed in the ranks for an emergency will be arumed and equipped and sent to the ranks for this operation. Time commanding general requests the earnest attention of corps commanders to this point. 11. Headquarters will be moved on Wednesday to the vicinity of Poplar Spring Church. During the early part of the operation the commanding gemieral will be with the right wing. The troops at head Page 342 342 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. quarters and the engineer troops, the whole under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Spaulding, will be held in reserve at Poplar Spring Church for such service as may be required of them. A full supply of intrenching tools will be kept with them. 12. The chief quartermaster of the army will arm and equip every man that can be spared from the trains, place them under the command of officers of his department, and send them to the intrenchments covering City Poiut under the command of General Benham. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, Lieut. Col. T. S. BOWERS, October 25, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General, Armies of the United & ates: SIR: I deem it proper, iu reference to the previous verbal instruc- tions of the lieutenant-general and in view of the expected -advance of the armies to the front, to inclose to you a statement* of the force I now have at command for the defense of this post with which I am charged. I presume the lieutenant-general would desire to know the details of this force, being well assured that either this or such other as he shall consider fully adequate to hold this position, whatever the distance of the armies may be, will be left for its defense, and I accordingly feel that he may rely upon it that the place will never be surrendered by me. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BEXHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, VA., October 25, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of AStaff, Army of the Potomac: I have the honor to state that I have here at this time under my command for completing and protecting the lines the troops and guns as shown by the inclosed estimate, the two four-gun field batteries, Third Maine and Third Vermont, having reported within the last twelve hours. It will be seen that about 1,546 of the 3,119 infantry and engineer troops require arms, for the issuing of which every exer- tion has been made since yesterday afternoon, and I trust that the major part will have their arms this afternoon and the balance before noon to-morrow. I have this m~rning ridden over the lines with Col- onel Abbot and arranged to the satisfaction of both of us for the dis- tribution of the ten siege guns he is ordered to send to me and which - I shall expect to-morrow; and these, with the fourteen field guns, with the two more expected by the Third Vermont Battery, will, I trust, be 9 very well arranged for as a means for defense. I inclose also a copy of the project I have prepared for the distribution of the men and guns for the defense along these lines for the information of the command- ing general. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BEXHAM, Brigadier- General. * See inclosure No. 1, p 34 Page 343 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 343 [Inclosure No. 1.] Estimate of force October 25 for defense of the advance lines of City Point, jude- pendent of such as may be furnished in emergencies from the department of the provost- marshal-general. No. men Regiments, battalions, & c. for duty Remarks. last report. 205th Pennsylvania Re,~iment (from 776 New recruits, and in the trenches or on picket for General Butlers army). nearly all the time siuce joined. 61st Massachusetts Battalion (five 401 New recruits, and in the trenches ever since they companies). ,joined. 18th New Hampshire Battalion (five 333 New recruits, and in the trenches ever since they companies). joined; two companies entirely withont arms (expecting them from their State), to be armed to-day. 8th Delaware Battalion (three com- 247 New recruits, and in the trenches ever since they panies). joined; worthless arms issued in their State; to be re-armed to-day. Independent company of New York 55 New recruits, and in the trenches ever since they volunteers. joined; no arms; to be armed to-day. Total infantry 1, 812 - Engineer Brigede. 50th Engineers (detachment of repair 57 For repairs of boats and care of bridges, & c.; company). armed. 15th Engineers (two companies and 209 Required for guarding public property here; one partial company). armed. 15th Engineers (one company) 127 Recruits, with but one officer; but little squa4 drill; no arms; to he armed to.day. 50th Regiment (six companies of unas- 850 All of these inthe trenches forthe pastthree weeks, signed recruits). a part having had squad drill previously. No officars at all duly commissioned; persons claim- ing to have been mustered as such. Surplus recruits, over full members, 64 All in the trenches without drill since their ar- for both regiments. rival; no officer at all. Total engineers 1, 307 Total engineers and infantry --- - 3, 119 Engineers and infantry without arms, to be armed to-day, 1,546. ArtilleryThe Second Maine Battery, six field pieces; now at Old Court-House. Third Vermont Battery, four field pieces; reported as arrived .within the lines during the night. In addition, Col. H. 1. Abbot reports order~ to send from Broadway Landing ten siege pieces; to be arranged for b-day. The Third Maine Battery, four guns, reporte at 0 a. m. on October 25, 1864. Total number of guns, twenty.four. II. ~ BENHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding Defenses. - [Inclosure No. 2.] Distribution of men and guns for defense of lines City Point. Command. Lieutenant Dibbells provisional company of engineers. Captain Rogers provisional company of engi- neers and 50 of Lieutenant Rydings pro- visional company. Lieutenant Rydings provisional company, 100 men. Captain Ponds provisional company and in- dependent company New York Volunteers. Lieutenant Burkes provisional company - Lieutenant Linsley and 100 men of 15th Engi- neers. Lieutenant Henderson, 50 men of Compar.y F and 64 surplus men. 8th Delaware Battalion Cannon, with artillerists. Two pieces of 3d Maine Battery. Two guns 3d Maine and t~vo siege guns. Two guns 3d Vermont Battery. Two guns 3d Vermont Battery. Three siege guns. Two guns 24 Maine Battery. Two guns 2d Maine Battery. Two siege guns. Two guns 2d Maine and three siege guns. CHAP. LIV.] Redoubt. No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 No. 5 No.6 On line 3738 - - -- No. 7 Old Court-House redoubt. 205th Penusyivania Regiment, movable, south of railroad. 61st Massachusetts and 18th New Hampshire Battalions, movable, north of railroad. H. W. BEYHAM, Brigadier- General, Commanding Defenses, & e. CITY PoINT, VA., October ~5, 1864 Page 344 344 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LTV HDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, October 25, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER EIGHTH DELAWARE VOLUNTEERS: SIR: You will move your command to-morrow in time to arrive at the Old Court-House redoubts ou left of the fortifications at 12 in., where the commanding general will designate a new camping-ground for you. You will have your present ground thoroughly policed before leaving. By order of Brig. Gen. H. W. Benham: CHANKING CLAPP, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS: The Second and Third Divisions were relieved from the line last night by the First. Fatigue detail were at work last night on new works near Averys house and Dunns house. There are 900 men on fatigue this morning. The enemy did a good deal of work last night bwilding bomb-proofs, covered ways, & c., near the rear works they have erected opposite Fort MeGilvery. WJXFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. General HUMPHREYS: Several contrabands came in just now from Sussex. They passed between Lees Mill and the Norfolk railroad; saw nothing but a few patrols. WIINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: General Hunt will direct the officer iu charge of siege artillery to report to General Miles. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. General HUMPHREYS: General Miles reports that Since he has taken up the second line between Stedinan and McGilvery, and occupied the first with pickets where he formerly had vedettes, the picket detail has been increase Page 345 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 345 by about 300 men, making the entire picket detail about 1,900 instead of 1,600. He has 6,254 muskets, though he reports 6,800 for duty, the balance being 400 musicians and other non-combatants. He ought, therefore, to have the regiment at Cedar Level, and I request that it may go to him when the depot is broken up. With this regiment Gen- eral Miles thinks his force sufficient. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 1864. (Sent 12 in.) Major-General HANcOCK, Commanding Second Corps: Send the regiment at Cedar Level to General Miles when the depot is broken up. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. k~JRCULARJ HEADQUARTERS SEcOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. This camp will be struck at noon to-morrow, the 26th instant. No transportation for baggage or supplies other than pack animals will be allowed to accompany the headquarters on the movement contemplated. All public and personal property will be turned over to the chief quar- termaster of the corps. Officers and men will be restricted to such articles only as they can conveniently carry on their persons or horses. A pack animal will be allowed to every two messes of officers. By order of Major.General Hancock: SEPT. CAJItNCJSOSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. The Second and Third Divisions of this command will be prepared to move promptly at 2 ~ to-morrow afternoon, October 26, 1864, the men to have sixty rounds of ammunition on the person, three days~ fall rations in haversack, and three days hard bread, sugar, coffee, & c., in knapsack, to count from the morning of the 27th. Forty rounds of ammunition per man will accompany the divisidn in wagons, half the ambulances, one medicine wagon, and one hospital wagon for each brigade, and all the wagons containing the intrenchiug tools. Other than these, no ~yagons, spring or otherwise, will be allowed to accom- pany the column. The forage for Qfflcers~ horses and the rations, & c., for officers must be packed. Such a number of pack-mules as may be absolutely necessary for this purpose will be allowed. All animals and vehicles not accompanying the troops will be sent to City Point. The general trains will move under the direction of the chief quartermaster. Forage, subsistence, & c., required from the trains must be drawn and issued by 12 m. to-morrow. The order of march will be indicated in orders to-morrow. By order of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CAIINCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 346 346 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. The following changes will be made in the disposition ordered for to-morrow: Four days rations on the person instead of six will be taken, counting from the morning of the 27th. One days salt meat will be taken in the haversack and three days beef on the hoof. One forage wagon will be allowed to each division for forage for officers horses, and one forage wagon to each battery. By command of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CAIIXCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the following changes in the positions of the artillery were made last night: Battery F, First Penn- sylvania Artillery, was relieved in Battery 10 by a section of Whites (Fourth Maine), which was withdrawn from Fort Haskell. The other section of Battery F was withdrawn from Fort Stedman, and the whole battery parked near the Norfolk road in rear of the Deserted House. Battery H, First Ohio, was moved from Fort Sedgwick, a section was placed in Battery 13 and one in Battery 14, relieving the Tenth Massa- chusetts Battery, six gnus, which was moved to ,the neighborhood of Fort Bross. Captain Mayos (Third Maine) battery was relieved in Fort Rice by a section of Battery A, First New Jersey Artillery. Cap- tain Mayo then reported with his battery to Brigadier-General Benham, at City Point. One gun of E, First Rhode Island (light 12- pounder), from Fort Rice, was pLaced in railroad battery, and the gun of A, First New Jersey, relieved, went into Fort Rice. The Fourteenth Massachusetts Battery was withdrawn, one section from Fort Bross and one from the rear of Fort Sedgwick. The Third Vermont Battery was withdrawn from Battery No. 16. The commanding officers of these batteries were ordered to report with their commands to Brigadier- General Benham, at City Point. Battery K, Fourth U. S. Artillery, which was withdrawn previously, moved to the neighborhood of Fort Bross. Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, and First New Hamp- shire Bhttery, which were also in reserve, moved to the neighbori~ood of the Southall house. - The caisson camps of the batteries remaining in position were moved back out of sight of the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. JI~ZARD, Major, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 1864. Brigadier-General MILES, Commanding First Division, Second Army Corps: General Hancock suggests to the general commanding Ihat signal stations be kept up at the Friend house, Avery house, and Fort Davis Page 347 CHAP. LIV J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.ITNION. 317 I have directed these stations of observation to remain as they are. Reports of all observations made from them will be reported to you. Please forward the same to these headquarters. B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS SECOND Conps, October 25, 18G4. Brigadier-General MILES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to inform you that all wagons, animals, artillery, & c., not on or under the protection of the line must be moved to City Point to-morrow afternoon or night. The chief quartermaster will assign some position for your general train. Your troops will be rationed with six days full rations from the 27th. Whatever forage and subsistence you require from the train should be drawn and issued by 12 m. to-morrow. Your intrenching tools you can keep with you. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, C. II. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. Brigadier-General EGAN, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The commanding general desires to be informed whether you have moved your headquarters, and, if so, where they are located. It is important, and orders require, that all such changes should be immediately reported to these headquarters. A brigade of your divis- lou (the Second) was seen to come over the plain a few minutes since in full view of the enemy toward its new camp. If that brigade w~iked till after daylight the general says it should not have done so. He desires to know whether it did or not; and,if not, whythemove- ment was not made to their new camp before daylight, so as to avoid the observation of the enemy, as the orders required in this movement of troops. Please answer by messenger. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SEPT. CAIINCItOSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. Maj. S. CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Army Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to state, in answer to your communication of this date, that Captain Doten, of my staff, informed Major Mitchel Page 348 348 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LW. this morning of the change in the location of my headquarters. My command was not relieved by the First Division until 2.30 this a. m. I then moved my headquarters with my troops. The order detailing the fatigue party, 500 men, front my command, last evening, stated that they would be relieved iu the morning. They were not relieved until 9 oclock this morning. I sent a staff officer to lead them to the new camp by the most concealed route, and he informs me that he con- ducted them here, so that, iu his opinion, they were entirely out of view of the enemy. I gave the most positive instructions to the com- manding officer of the Second Brigade myself, about 11 oclock last night, that in case he was relieved before daylight this morning he would march his command to this camp in rear of Fort Bross. The officer in charge of the fatigue detail from the Second Brigade states that the engineer officer to whom he reported directed him to discon- tinue working at 4 oclock this morning, and that he then reported his command at the Avery house without any instructions from the brigade commander to move from there, and he consequently waited for further orders. I shall hold the commanding officer of the Second Brigade respomisible for neglecting my most positive instructions. Through the neglect of one of my staff officers my headquarters was not reported upon my arrival here. - I am, major, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, T. W. EGAN,~ Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 25, 1864. Maj. S. CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that this division has been re- lieved by the First Division, with the exception of the garrisons of Forts Blaisdell, Bross, and Stevenson, and is now massed on the clear- ing near the Southall house. Nothing further of note occurred since my last report. I am, major, very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, G. MOTT, Brevet Major- General of Volunteers. HEADQITARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 25, 1864. Major-Geucral MOTT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to inform you that the garrisons at Forts Stevenson and Patrick Kelly can join your command early to-morrow morning. It is not known that any of your men are at work to-night. The general desires theiu all to rest. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, & c Page 349 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRPS, October 25, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual occurred in my front yesterday or during the night. All was quiet. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major-General, (Jo mmanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 51. October 25, 1864. I. The command will move at dawn on Thursday, 27th instant. Each man will carry sixty rounds of ammunition on his person and four days full rations, from 27th instant. II. Wagons to carry forty rounds of ammunition per man, two days forage for the horses of the mounted officers, and the spring-wagons allowed to the several headqnarters. One-half the ambulances, with all the stretchers, will be prepared to accompany the troops. No bag- gage or headquarters wagons will be allowed, but instead such pack animals will be used as will be necessary for carrying rations and tents of officers. All other trains and wagons than just specified will be sent during the night of the 26th within the intrenchments at City Point nnder the direction of the chief quartermaster of the army. The vehicles not sent to City Point and pack anilnals will not march with the troops, but remain parked by divisions in secure positions near their present encampments, to be sent for as occasion may require. III. Every man on detached service, special, extra, or daily duty that can be temporarily placed in the ranks for an emergency will be armed and equipped and sent to the ranks for this operation. ~ By command of Major-General Warren: N FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDE No. 266. RS, ~ HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. * * * * * * II. The One hundred and eighty-seventh Regiment New York Vol- unteers having reported in compliance with paragraph Y, Special Orders, No. 287, from headquarters Army of the Potomac, is assigned to the First Division, and will report to ~Brigadier-General Bartlett, commanding. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ilD QRS. FIRST DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, No. 152. 5 October 25, 1864. 1. The Thirty-second Massachusetts Volunteers is hereby transferred from the Second to the Third Brigade, and will report accordingly Page 350 350 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND~ N. C. (CHAP. LIV. 2. In accordance with Special Orders, No. 358, War Department, current series, the Eighteenth and Twenty-second Massachusetts Bat- talions are consolidated with the Thirty-second Massachusetts Volun- teers, and the commanding officers of those battalions will report with their commands to the commanding officer Thirty-second Massachu- setts Volunteers without delay. 3. The One hundred and eighty-seventh New York Volunteers having reported in compliance with Special Orders, No. 266, headquarters Fifth Corps, are hereby assigned to the Second Brigade, Brevet Briga- dier-General Gregory commanding, and will report accordingly. By command of Brigadier-General Bartlett: GEO. MONTEJTH~ Assistant Adjutant-Generat. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 25, 18649 a.rn. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staif: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual has transpired along our lines during the past twenty-four honrs. A deserter from the Twenty-seventh North Carolina has been forwarded. He has nothing new to communicate. JNO. G. PAIIKE, lliliajor- General. SPECIAL ORIL~ERS, HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, No. 211. Peebles House, Va., October 25, 1864. * * * * * * * 5. I. The line of works from Fort Fisher to Fort Cummings will be garrisoned as follows: Fort FisherForty-fifth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, Thirty-first Maine Volunteers, Lieut. Col. E. L. Getchell, Thirty-first Maine Volunteers, commanding; Fort WelchFifty-eighth Massachusetts Volnuteers, Twenty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, Seventeenth Vermont Volunteers, Lieut. Col. J. C. Whiton, Fifty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteers, commanding; Fort GreggEighth Michigan Volunteers, recruits of Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, Lient. (~oi. Ralph Ely comi~ian ding; Fort SampsonThird Maryland Volunteers, Capt. Joseph F. Carter commanding; Fort CmnmingsForty.sixth New York Volunteers, Capt Adolph Becker commanding. II. Division commanders will see that the troops composing these garrisons belonging to their commands, respectively, are supplied with six days rations and 200 rounds of ammunition per man. Ill. These regiments will encamp iii immediate vicinity of the redoubts garrisoned by them, respectively, and are expected to picket their entire front. IV. Lieut. Col. Ralph Ely, Eighth Michigan Volunteers, being the senior officer, is assigiied to the command of the whole line, and will report in person at these headquarters for special instructions. By command of Maj. Gen. John G. Parke: JNO. C. YOUNGMAN, Gaptain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 351 CHAP. LIV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 351 ORDERS.] HDQRS. SECOND DIvIsIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1861. In accordance with permission from the general commanding Ninth Army Corps, the following change will be made in the troops garrison- ing the forts on the line held by this command: The Twenty-first Mas- sachusetts Volunteers will be relieved as part of the garrison at Fort Welch by the Fifty-first New York Volunteers. The commanding officer Twenty-first Massachusetts will report to his brigade com- mander. The commanding officer Fifty-first New York Volunteers will report to Lieut. Col. John C. Whiton, commanding Fort Welch and the forces holding the line of Second Division, Ninth Army Corps. By command of Brigadier-General Potter: SAMUEL WRIGHT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 25, 186411.40 a. m. Hon. ~. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.: Tracing my communication on the subject of brevets, I find it left General Grants office, directed to the War Department, some ten days ago. In that communication and in others I have had the honor to recommend~ the following list of officers for promotion to brigadier-gen- erals by brevet, excepting First Lieut. Peter S. Michie, whom I desire, for reasons set forth and for most meritorious services, should have two brevets in the army, making him major as be is assigned chief engineer of this army. The reasons for these promotions will be found set forth in my written communication and in General Orders, No., of this department :* Col. Francis A. Osborn Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers; Col. Alvin C. Voris, Sixty~sevei~th Ohio Volunteers; Col. N. Martin Curtis, One hundred and forty-second New York Volun- teers; Col. Alouzo G. Draper, Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Troops; Col. Samuel A. Duncan, Fourth U. S. Colored Troops; Col. Joseph C. Ab- bott, Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers; Maj. B. C. Ludlow, Fourth Missouri Cavalry; First Lieut. Peter S. Michie, U. S. Engineers. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 25, 1864. Lient. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer at James River reports: Enemy building a line of rifle-pits from Coxs Ferry in a southwest direction in rear of other works. Buildings at the ferry are being torn down on south side of the river. Think the enemy has mounted two heavy guns in a work to their right of three-gun battery near the river, bearing toward the Eighteenth Army Corps lines to the left of Fort Harrison; also building a battery a short distance to their left of the two-angled battery on north side of river. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. R. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. * See address of October 11, p. 161 Page 352 352 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 25, 1864. Lieut. CoL GEORGE A. KENSEL Chief ol Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer in front of Tenth Army Corps reports for the day: About 250 negroes at work increasing the height of the breast-works between Fort Gilmer and the New Market road. This line of breast-works is already so high as to screen from view the light battery of four pieces previously reported as having beeu placed behind it. The negroes are not uniformed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, ARMY OF THE POTOiIUAC, October 25, 1864. Colonel ABBOT: General iVicade cannot spare any men for General Benhams guns. He says you must give him as many instructed gunners as you can, and he must find the other men for the mere labor part himself. Can you not manage to give him a company~? HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 25, 1864. Colonel ABBOT, Broadway Landing: The mortar battery in No.20 snouid be moved to-morrow or to-morrow night near enough to Fort Sedgwick to bring it under the protection of the garrison there. Your batteries should be rationed to-morrow morning to include Tuesday, November 1. The forts only will be left occupied. The troops are moving from the lines. The engineers are putting up a battery for Pratt near the Avery house. Will you attend to these affairs to-mirrow ~ Let me know. Has additional ammunition been furnished to your batteries on the line ~ Major Brooker will be ordered to report to General Miles. HENRY J. HUNT, / Brigadier- Generat. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 25, 1864. Brigadier-General BENHAM, Commanding Defenses of City Point, J~c.: GENERAL: I am just starting for headquarters Army of the Poto- mac. General Hunt telegraphs that no troops can be furnished for the ten guns. I am going to try to get some by personal application. Without troops no advantage could result from the guns. I will advise you of the result at once. Yours, very truly, HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery Page 353 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 353 FORT BRADY, VA., October 25, 1864. Col. II. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the rebel tire at the canal was confined to about two hours iu the middle of the day. No one injured as I could see or hear. Returned their fire with the 4.5-inch gnu; killed a single man while crossing the field leaving the battery. Have moved all my men from the Gap, excepting enough to work one piece and the magazines. Shall bring the mortars away early to-morrow morning. Sent the light pieces this p. m. Put my last recruits on detachment to-day; they work splendidly; almost like old men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. H. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. TENTH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 43. ) In the Field, Va., October 25, 1864. As a token of resp& ct for the memory of the late commander of this corps, Maj. Gen. David Bell Birney, the colors of the regiments, of the batteries, and of the several headquarters will wear the usual badge ot mourning for the period of thirty days from November II. By command of Byt. Maj. Gen. A. H. Terry: WM. P. SHREVE, First Lient., 2d U. S. Sharpshooters, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, in~ the Field, Va., October 25, 1864. Bvt. Maj. Gen. G. WEITZEL, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: In reply to your telegram to Lieutenant-Colonel Kensel in relation to the control of the artillery within your command, I am instructed by the major-general commanding to say that all the artil- lery on this side of the James River and within the limits occupied by your corps is under your control. The company of First Connecticut Artillery serving at Dutch Gap will, however, be reported by General Graham as present with the regiment. The artillery on the other side of the James will be under the control of General Graham, but the light batteries belonging to the Eighteenth Corps, on his line, will be reported by the commanding officer of the Artillery Brigade of that corps. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 25, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: Have those troops that are to report to me come up yet~ Please order them to report to me as soon as they arrive. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. 23 R RVOL XLJ1~ PT LI Page 354 354 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS EIcUITEENTII ARMY CORPS, In the Field, October 25, 1864 To-morrow, at 6 a in., the following change in the position of troops on the line of this corps will be made: A brigade of the Second Di- vision, to be composed of the Second Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery and two such other regiments from the Second Division as General Heck- man may designate, together with the One hundred and seventh U. S. Colored Troops, under the command of the ranking officer, will take position from the right of our present line to the first redoubt on the left of Fort Buruham, including this redoubt and Fort Burnham. This brigade will be placed in position by Colonel Jourdan. The One hun- dred and seventeenth and One hundred and eighteenth lJ. S. Colored Troops will report to Colonel Ames, commanding Third Brigade, Third Division. to be attached to this brigade. Colonel Ames, with his coin- mand, will take position and hold from the left of the line occupied by the above brigade to the left redoubt of our line, on the lower Kin gsland road. Ceronel Cole with his regiment will occupy the last-mentioned re- doubt and the extreme left of the line. As soon as the above-mentioned troops have taken their position they will report to Colonel Jourdan, One hundred and fifty-eighth [New York] Yolunteers, who will command the troops on the line. The whole First Division, the two remaining brigades of the Second Division, and the First and Second Brigades of the Third l)ivision will move to the open field on the Varina road, about a quarter of a mile in rear of these headquarters and bivouac and mass in that field, the First Division in front, next the Second Division, and the Third Division in rear. Colonel Jourdan will then have his troops occupying this line provided with provisions for three days and at least 200 rounds of ammunition to each man and gun, and will instruct the commanding officers of the redoubts to hold them in case of attack ~.s long as possible. The troops that are moved into Coxs field will, as soon as they get into their positions, be provided with sixty rounds of ammunition to each man, to be carried on their persons, and 100 rounds to be carried in wagons. To-morrow after- noon they will be provided with three days cooked rations, com meuc- ing on the morning of the 27th. Each brigade of this force will be allowed one wagon to carry provisions for the officers of the brigade. By command of Brevet Major-General Weitzel: D. D. WHEELER, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- ~iJ eneral. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18649 a. m. (Sent 10 a.m.) Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT: A scouting party, sent out by General Gregg down the Norfolk rail- road, captured some scouts of the enemy and brought in a Mr. Heath, a magistrate, who has been very active in conscripting for the rebel army. They also captured, at Disputanta, a large number of telegraphic dispatches, showing the enemy have been taking off the disp atches from the wire running down the river. II send by orderly a few of these dispatches, containing information of use to the enemy, and would sug- gest some caution being given to subordinate officers not putting thei Page 355 CHAP. LIV] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 355 telegrams in cipher. All these dispatches have been sent to the pro- vost-marshal-genera]. Six deserters came in last night. Have no changes or anything new to report. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, October 26, 18642.30 p. m. General GEORG-E G. MEADE: Your orders* for to-morrow have been received and read. The only point on which I would suggest a change is in regard to Parkes move- ment. If he finds the enemys fortifications iii good defensible condi- tion and manned I think he should only confront them nutil the move- ment of the other two corps had its effect. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18647.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The orders for to-morrow intend that Parke should act in the manner you suggest; that is to say, he will not attack if he finds the enemy in such position and force as renders it injudicious to do so, but as his movement is to be made at daylight or just before he will have to make a partial attack to ascertain the exact condition of affairs unless lie waits till after daylight, and, if he does, I am quite sure he will have no chance~ GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General, Commanding. CHURCH ROAD SIA~NAL STATION, October 26, 1864. Captain PAINE: At 8 a. m. a working party of twenty-five men left works near Jones and passed westward along the works, otherwise, no movemeitts have yet been discovered. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. STATION FRONT OF FORT HOWARD October 26, 18641.30 p. m. Major FiSHER, Chief Signal Officer: There is considerable commotion in the enemys front on Boydton p1ank road near Bntterworths house and in fort On east bank of Lieu- tenant Creek, near large yellow house. About 300 men left the works (east of) near the large yellow house and moved westward along the See circular, October 25, p. 340 Page 356 356 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. works, disappearing behind the lead-works. A camp of about a small regiment has disappeared from the Boydton plailk road near Butter- worths. The enemy is strengthening his picket-line near the Bailey house, by making the pits a connected rifle-pit. C. L. DAVIS, Captain and Signal Officer. AVERY HOuSE, October 26, 18644.40 p. rn. Maj. B. F. FISHER: At 12.30 p. in. the ambulance train of the enemy, that has been for a time parked on the Ol)CII space on the hill to the right of the city, moved away, going to the left. A small detail of the enemys infantry have been at work strengthening the right of the long river battery northwest of station. No movement of troops or trains has been seen this p. m. B. W. MARCY, In Charge of Station. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 26, 18645.20 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Between 12 m. and 3 p. m. a train of sixteen wc gons and some small sqnads of cavalry moved from Petersburg to our left and disappeared on road running west from large fort on Weldon railroad. Smoke has prevented a view of the left since 3 p. in.; up to that time camps were unchanged, but presented more than an ordinary amount of activity. No changes have occurred in our immediate front. A. K. CAROTITERS, Sergeant. CHURcH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 26, 18645.30 p. m. Captain PAINE: At 10 a. m. six wagons passed eastward on Boydton plank road. At 11.30 a. m. a pioneer party of about 200 men made their appearance near works near Jones. About three regiments of infantry, in all about 3,000 men, have spent the p. m. drilling near works between fort 30 degrees east of north and lead-works. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH CORPS, October 26, 1864. Major FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Stations report no movements this p. in., and all quiet on the enemys lines seen from the stations. Sergeants Sleeper and Aiken will occupy, respectively, the Church road and Fort Howard stations at daylight to-morrow as directed. CIIAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, dc Page 357 CHAP. LIV.] COflRESPONDENCE, ETC UNION. 357 SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 112. City Point, Va., October 26, 1864. I. Brig. Gen II. W. Benham, commandiiig Engineer Brigade, Army of the Potomac and Defenses of City Point, is hereby relieved from such commands and from duty with the Army of the Potomac, and will report in person to Brig. Gen. Richard Delafield, Chief Engineer, Washington, D. C., for orders. 11. Brig. Gen. 14. H. Patrick, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the troops and defenses at City Point, and will immediately assume said command. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 289. October 26, 1864. * * * * * * * 6. Lieut. Col. Ira Spaulding, Fiftieth New York Engineers, is assigned for the present to the command of the Engineer Brigade, and will enter upon duty accordingly. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. General WILLIAMS Nothing unusual has occurred during the night. Six deserters came in, belonging to Johnsons and Mahones divisions. They have nothing new; say that the intrenchments are held by Johnson, Mahone, and the militia, and that all detailed men have been returned, and even the artillerymen furnished with muskets. WINFD S. HANCOCK, llliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18646 p. m. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: Captain Ityckinan, coinluanding cavalry pickets from Weldon rail- rdad to the infantry left, has been directed by the commanding general to keep up his pickets until you order him to relieve them, and to report to you and remain with you during the operation. Captaiu Ityckman is on the Vaughan road about a mile or a mile and a half beyond the iiitrenchments. A. A. HUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 358 358 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHA~?. LJV~ HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 26, 18646.30 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS: GENERAL: My troops are in bivouac near the Lewis and Perkins honsesthe rear jnst coming in. They stopped here, owing to some difficulty abont finding the designated point, the rear line of intrench- ments not being marked on my maps, and with the understanding that when we march in the morning the coin inn moves out the Church road by Colonel Wyatts, and from thence by a cross-road three-quarters of a mile from Colonel Wyatts to the Vaughan road. We strike the Vanghan road at the point marked Mrs. Davis on the map, and really will gain time by the operation. We can move from here at an earlier hour and go by the Vaughan house, if necessary. Owing to this change I have established my headquarters at the Lewis house. Cap- tain Paine can explain the position to you, as he has been here. Respectfully, your obedient servant, WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding. - HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18647 p. m. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: Your dispatch received. It is not necessary to go by the Vaughan house, but take the shortest route in the manner you propose. I have already sent you a note about Captain Ryckm ans command of cavalry. A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. You would have found the rear line of works readily from Fort Dushane, from which a road ran along them. A. A. TI. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 26, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: General Gregg tells me he learns from deserters that the Vaughan road, particularly near Hatchers Run, is much obstructed by slashing. I cannot say where daylight will find me. I am of the opinion that nothing will be gained by starting at such an early hour, moving over an obstructed road held by the enemy. I fear that the command will be munch separated in the night. I do not, however, suggest any changes, but think by starting at a later hour we can mnake the same distance in better order. it is not light till about 5.30. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding Page 359 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .tJNIO~. 359 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18648.30 p. m. (Received 9 p. in.) Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: Your dispatch received. The commanding general modifies the hour of your starting to 3.30. This will bring you to the vicinity of Hatchers Run about 5.30; that is, the dawn of day. You will advise Gregg accordingly, I suppose. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- (leneral and Chief of Staff. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. The Second and Third Divisions of this command will move at 2 p. in., the Third Division in advance. The line of march will be from the Southall house, through the wood by the Widow Smiths, Williams, and Gurleys houses, and Fort Dushane. The command will bivouac just outside the line and near the Vaughan house. Staff officers from each of these divisions will report at these headquarters at 12 in. to accoin- pany an officer from these headquarters to select camping grounds. The chief of artillery will assign two batteries to the Third Division and one to the Second Division. The ambulances and wagons per- mitted to accompany the troops will move in rear of the divisions to winch they belong. At the termination ~f the march the mcii will be strictly confined to their camps. No calls will be sounded and only small fires allowed. By command of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. The command wilt move at 2 a. in. to-morrow, the 27th, as follows: The infantry command, General Egan leading, by the Church road to the Vaughan road, thence across Hatchers Run, by Dabneys Mill, to the Boydton plank road. General Egan will move Titll an a(lvdnced guard w-ell out. Great care will be taken to keep the troops well closed, and the march will not be hastened unduly before daylight. General Gregg, commanding cavalry, will send a squadron of cavalry in advance of the infantry column. General Gregg will move by Rowanty Post- Office to the Vaughan road, commnnicatiiig with the infantry column whenever practicable, following the general instructions for his com- mand in the orders from headquarters of the army. From the present camp to the point where the Church and Halifax roads diverge, the road will be used in common by the infantry and cavalry. Time cavalry will take the left amid the infantry command right of the road to the point of separation. To prevent confusion the commanders of troops will, by means of staff officers and guides, force the troops to keep on the right and left of the road respectively. A guide will be furnished General Egan. None of the wagons allowed, except ainb Page 360 360 OPERATIONS IN Sm VA. AND N. 0. tCHAI. LIV. lances, will move with the troops. They will be assembled between this camp and the Gu~-ley house under cli arge of Lieutenant Hunter, acting assistant quartermaster, ready to move when directed. By order of Major-General Hancock: C. H. MORGAN Lieutenant- Colonel, Chief of ASta.tJ HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CoRPS, October 26, 1864. In pursuance to the above order this command will move at 2 a. m. to-morrow. The order of march will be the same as to-day, viz., First Brigade, Second Brigade, Third Brigade, artillery, ambulances. The ammnnition train and other vehicles to return to Fort Dushane, and there await until further orders. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott. J. P. FINKELMEJEIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRKfADE 2D CORPS , No. 180. 5 October 26, 1864. * * * * * * * IT. During the absence of the major commanding, Capt. A. Judson Clark, First New Jersey Artillery, will have command of the artillery on the line. By command of Maj. Jno: G. Hazard: U. D. EDDY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 26, 18649.45 p. rn. 1. Brigade and battery commanders are informed the order to move is changed from 2 to 3.30 to-morrow morning. 2. The following will be the order of march: First Brigade, General De Trobriand: Second Brigade, General B. 11. Pierce~ Third Brigade, Col. Robert McAllister. At 1.40 oclock the men will take arms and a roll call will be made. Brigade and regimeiihid commanders are in- structed to use all means in their power to prevent straggling. The batteries will follow the Third Brigade; the ambulances will follow the batteries; ~he ammunition train will follow the ambulances. No other spring or other vehicles will be allowed. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FINKELMEJEIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance transpired in my front yesterday or during the night. All was quiet. IRespectfally, G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding Page 361 CHAP. LIV.] CO1~RESPONDENCI~, ETC.lJNION. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 18645.45 p. m. Lieutenant EDIE. Chief Ordnance Officer, Army of the Potomac: No muskets have arrived yet for our corps. Please telegraph when we may expect them. FRED. T. LOCKE, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. IEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18646.15 p. m. (Sent 6.45 p. in.) Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: General Parke has opened a route for you on the left of the fort at the Clements house from the open field, beyond which you take a road through the woods which leads out to the Duncan road, or at least to a house on that road (Westmoreland house, marked Miss Pegrams originally). There will be nothing to prevent your moving simultane- ously with Parke as far as the Duncan road, and from that you will probably be able to find a route to Hatchers Run. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: Your dispatch of 6.45 p. m. is received. Major Roebling knows the road indicated in your telegram. For Major-General Warren: Respectfully. FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- 4~enerai. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 18647.20 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: The orders for General Parke do not state any hour for him to start. My orders are out for my command to march at 5.30 a. in., starting from Parkes house. G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18648.15 .v. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: The commanding general considers the hour, 5.30 a. in., not early enough. General Parke will move at 3 oclock, and the commanding general fixes 4 oclock for the hour of your starting. General Park Page 362 OPERATIONS I~ SE. VA, AND N. 0. ~CHAP. LIV. will to-night clear the road for you past Poplar Spring Church, Peebles and Clements house, the one running behind the rear line of intrench- ments. You pass out on the left of the fort at Clements house, and take a wood road running from what was the Conway house (destroyed) to the Westmoreland house and Duncan road. The Conway house was just in front of the fort at the Clements house. Have you had a staff officer over the route I mention, which is just opened by Parke? If not, had you not better send one? A. A. ~IUMPHIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. [Indorsemeut.] Furnished for the information of division commanders and the com- mander of the artillery brigade, who will move their commands promptly at 4~ a. rn. By command of Major-General Warren: FI~ED. T. LOCKE. Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 18649 p. m. (Ileceived 9.15 p. in.) General WARREN: I have had an opening made through the parapet of the left of Fort Cummings, and also moved Ferreros division back from the parapet, so that you can move along from the Vaughan road, directly behind the infantry parapets through it on the left of Fort Cummings. 1 will move out through the parapet on the right of Fort Cummings. JNO. G. PAHKE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1861. (Ileceived 9.40 p. in.) General WARREN: General Humphreys telegraphs me to send a staff officer with oi~e of yours over the road you are to take. If your troops take the Vaughan road to the rear line of parapet, and thence along it to Fort Cummings, there need be no collision; but if you wish I will have a staff officer accompany one of yours over the road. JNO. G. PAIIKE, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, No. 53. 5 October 26, 1864. The following will be the order of march to-morrow: I. The First Division will set out at 5.30 a. in., so as to keel) closed on General Parkes column. II. The Second Division, General Ayres, will set out at the same time by the road through the wToods, so as to kcep closed on the First Division Page 363 CHiP. LIV.) OORRI~SPONDENC~, EtC.UN1ON. 363 Ill. The Third Division, General Crawford, will set out at the same time, so as to follow the Second Division. IV. A battery of rifles and light 12-pounders will follow the First and Second Divisions; the third light 12-pounder will accompany the Third Division. Ambulances in rear of the corps. By command of Major.General Warren: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. General BARTLETT: I have sent orders for you to move at 5.30 a. in., so as to keep closed upon General Parkes corps. I think that will be as early as the rear of his column will be out of your way; but I wish you would call up and see him, as he is near you, and ascertain if that is not so. I find many things to look after or I would go over myself and arrange it more definitely. Please let me know by telegraph if my arrangements are right according to Parkes. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 1864. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: General Parke moves at 3.30 a? in., and thinks the hour designated by you well timed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. J. BARTLETT, - Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 18648 p. rn. General BARTLETT, Commanding First Division, Fifth Corps: Your dispatch received. The major-general says, be prompt to start at 5.30 a. in., as the other divisions move at the same hour; had just sent dispatch by orderly. FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. flDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIt~ADE, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. _ Licut. Col. FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifth Army Corps: COLONEL: I have the honor to repoi-t the following batteries which are to be left in garrison: Battery 24, two 3-inch rifles, Lieutenan Page 364 3~34 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tCHAP. LIV. Miller; B 25, two light 12-pounders, Lieutenant Sheehy; Fort howard, two light 12-pounders, two 3-inch rifles, Lieutenant MeMahon; Battery 2G, two 3-inch rifles, two light 12-pounders, Lieutenant Clark; Fort Wadsworth, four light 12-pounders, Thur 3-inch rifles, Captain Matthewson; Fort Keene, two 3-inch rifles, two light 12-pounders, Cap- tain Ititchie; Fort Urmston, four light 12-pounders, two 3-inch rifles, Lieutenant Hazelton; Fort Conahey, two 3-inch rifles, two light 12- pounders, Captain Breck. C. S. WAINWIRIIG-HT, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18649.25 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: As circumstances may require the movement to the front of your bat- teries in the inclosed works, the commanding general considers it best that the horses of these guns and their caissons should be placed iu some secure place near the works instead of being sent within the intrenchments of City Point. A. A. HUMPUREYS ill ajor- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 18647.30 p. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The commanding general hopes you will be able to surprise the enemy to-morrow morning, but if you should not, and should find his works strong and well manned, he does not expect you to attack him, but to confront and threaten him. This he presumes you understand, but thinks it best to mention it as a matter of precaution. Get your troops out of the way to-night of the road Warren will take, past Poplar Spring Church and the left of the fort at Clements house. Have a perfect understanding with Warren about the road he will take, and send a staff officer with one of his over the road. Warren will move at 4 oclock. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Stafr. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS. October 26, 18648 p. m. Major-General MEADE: I have the honor to report that the opening is in ade through the par- apet and abatis on the left of Fort Cummings. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 365 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 365 HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 186411.25 p. m. Brigadier-General WILLOOX, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you move your command promptly at 3.30 in the morning, keeping your brigades well closed, and taking the road cut through the parapet to the right of Fort Cnmmings (by General Ferrero). General Warren wilPtake the road on the left of Fort Cummings, and the general commanding wishes you to be careful and have it kept clear. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. YOUNGMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 186411.55 p. m. Capt. JOHN C. YOUNG-MAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: Am I to understand from the dispatch dated headquarters Ninth Army Corps, 11.25 p. in., just received, directing my command to move thiough the parapet on the right of Fort Cummings, the bri- gades being well closed up, that there is any change in the orders of the early part of the evening relative to McLaughlens brigade l I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. Brigade commanders will hold their commands in readiness to march promptly at 3 a. in. to-morrow. Tattoo will be beaten at the usual time this evening, and after tattoo the officers will see that the men go to sleep in order that they may have a good nights rest. There will be no reveille in the morning. The troops will be kept well at hand, so that they can be aroused without unnecessary noise. The burning of rubbish or dry lumber, which has been collected in the camps, and which is usually burned before a march, is strictly forbidden. There will be no unnecessary fires whatever either to-night or to-morrow morn- ing. The movement will be made as quickly as possible, so as not to excite the suspicion of the enemy. Brigade commanders will be held responsible that these directions are carried out. By command of Brig. Gen. 0. B. Wilicox: JNO. P. BEIITOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 26, 1864. Brig. Gen. P. MCM. GREG-G, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: I am instructed by the commanding general to say that the commanding officer of the detachment of armed dismounted me Page 366 366 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. you may have in your dismounted camp near City Point must be ordered to report to Brigadier-General Benham, commanding defrnses at City Point, and that the men must, if necessary, take their places in the trenches. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, October 26, 1864. This division will move from its present camps this afternoon in the following order, viz: Third Brigade, at 2 oclock, by way of Temples and in front of the Gurley house to the Weldon railroad in front of the Perkins house and there camp. The brigade in reaching the point designated will keep inside the cavalry pickets, outside the line of works. Second Brigade, at 3 oclock, by the same route, and to camp in lear of the Third. First Brigade, at 4 oclock, by the same route, aud~to camp in rear of or to the left of the Third Brigade, as will be hereafter designated. The present camps will be broken up, the wagons packed and sent to report to the division quartermaster. After leaving the present camps no calls will be sounded until frirther orders. The pickets of the First Brigade will be withdrawn at dark, those of the Second and Third Brigade in time to move with their brigades at ~ a. m. to-morrow. The entire command will be provided with four days rations and two days forage from to-morrow morning. The ammunition traiu will move at 3 p. In. to the vicillity of the Yellow Tavern. By command of Brigadier-General Gregg: A. II. BIBBER, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS AR Y OF THE JAMES, October 26, 186412.25 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Commanding, d~c.: I take leave to scud you a copy of my orders for the movement to-morrow. If you will do me the tavor to examine them and see if there is anything you object to therein, and will notify me, there will be time to change. If you can spare him, I should be very glad to have Colonel Comstock with me to-morrow. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] CONFIDENTIAL.] IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, In Field, October 26, 1861. General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: It is proposed that this army shall make a demonstration upon our right, in order, if possible, to turn the left of the enemys intreuched and defended hues, it is believed, from information and reconnais- sauce, that his exterior defended line extends only a short distance to the east of the Darbytown road, certainly not farther thaim the Charle Page 367 CHAP. LLV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 367 City road. Therefore, it is supposed that if his troops are held in his intrenched line by a demonstration in his front, that another column marching free may turn his line, and at least force him to retire to his inner line or to attack us in the open field, which is desirable. The essay will be made on Thursday, the 27th instant, iu manner following: General Terry will withdraw such troops as he can spare, leaving suffi- cient to hold his lines. There will be sent him nearly 2,000 additional troops to those on his field return. It is presumed that General Terry will thus have a mobile column of 8,500 effective infantry; to that will be added two four-gun batteries of artillery. With this force General Terry will feel along the enemys lines to the right as far, at least, as the Charles City road, pushing the enemys skirmish lines, but not attacking their works, except in cases hereafter mentioned. This movement will be made so as to feel the enemy as early as 7 a. m. While this movement is in progress, concealing the march of another column, General Weitzel, having withdrawn as many men as can be sI)ared from his lines, leaving Fort Buruham well garrisoned and sufli- cient force together with the men additional to his held return, say 2,500, and left men enough to hold his lines, will move with the remainder of his corps, say 7,500 effective infantry and two four-gun batteries of artillery, along the Kingsland road, across the New Market road, by the I)rill- Thom to the i)arbytown (or Central) road; thence up that road to the neighborhodd of the Baptist Church; then by some of the several large roads across to the Charles City road at a point near Whites Tavern; then by a road near Mis. Carters house to the Williamsburg road in a direction to bring the head of the column near the enemys outer line of works at Williamsburg road. It is assumed that this march will have flanked the enemys defended intrenched line. It may be from infor- mation which will be given that the enemys line does not extend be- yond the Charles City road, and that it may be well to shorten the march and attempt to turn the line at that point; but that must depend on the state of things existing on arrival there. This march of Weitzels column will bring him within a mile of the rear of General Terrys, after leaving our lines, in position to support him if necessary, so that General Terry can have no hesitation in provoking an attack from the enemy at any time. In case General Weitzel succeeds in turning the enemys line they will either give battle, or, as is more probable, make for their second line. When General Weitzel is at. the outer line, either at Williamsburg or Charles City road, he will be nearer the inner line than the enemy, either at New Market or Darby town road, and a vigorous push there may secure the second line before the enemy can reach it. There will be found artillery, with a small guard, in the re- doubts on that line, and if we wait long enough it will be defended. Colonel West, with his cavalry, will cover the flanks and head of General Weitzels column, driving iu the cavalry pickets and scouts, and driving before him Garys cavalry, so managing his fom~e as to con- ceal Weitzels column and give the idea that his march is but a cavalry reconnaissance. Colonel West will report to General Weitzel after the columns join. Iii case the enemy leaves his exterior line for his interior line General Terry will push him so as to delay him. If he endeavors to umove to the left (our right), so as to meet the march of Weitzel, then General Terry will so far press the enemy as to require his presence iii his own front. If we should have the good fortune to turn the second line, then, if in the judgment of the commander there is a reasonable prospect of possible success, an attempt may be made to pass between or assault the enemy Page 368 368 OP~RATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. line of redoubts to enter Richmond. The prize is large, and if we are that near the attempt to seize it will justify loss, specially if successful. If in Richmond, the orders given corps commanders about the 28th September last will govern. Everything in this movement, as, indeed, iu most others depends on celerity and promptitude. Therefore, the troops will be in light-marching order, with three days rations in their haversacks, sixty rounds of ammunition in their boxes aud on their persons, and blankets rolled round them. Fifty rounds per man more of ammunition will be in wagons to accompany the columns. All other trains, except ambulance trains, which will be as few as possible, will be sent to the south side of the James, and will begin to move in that direction at the same time their column moves in the other. The Tenth Corps and cavalry wagons will move by the Deep Bottom bridge and the Eighteenth Corps by the Yarina bridge. Five days rations and fifty rounds of extra ammunition will be put on the wagons, lightly loaded, so as to be ready to move at the word. A strong and vigilant provost guard will follow each column to prevent straggling. Line officers must be cautioned that straggling depends on them, and they will be held responsible for it. It may be that the enemy will attack our lines, supposing them undefended. That he can only do by abandon- ing his own. In that, not very probable but still possible, case Gen- eral Terry, passing beyond the enemys line, will attack his flank and rear with all vigor, being certain of support. The enemy has on this side of the James about 7,000 good troops and about as many more conscripts and reserves. There need be, therefore, nO nervousness about an attack from him. Let him come either in flank or rear; we want hiin anywhere but in his works. Nor need there be any about his receiving re-enforcements from the south side. Measures have been taken to keep him fully employed there, and if he comes here the Army of the Potomac will come with him. Let these facts be impressed, first, upon division and brigade commanders before the movement commences, and then, after the march begins, upon the regimental commanders and thence through the line. Let it be under- stood that this is to be a movement to try to meet the enemy outside of his works, and the sooner he comes out the better. The commanding general will be on the right of the column of General Terry at the be- ginning of the movement, and will keep corps commanders advised where his headquarters may be; will give such further directions as the exigency may call for. Corps commanders will keep the general advised of all occurrences by prompt report, carefully noting the hour of report. It need not be said to generals of such experience as Gen- erals Terry and Weitzel that unfounded and exaggerated rumors are rife on the day of action, and, therefore, that the general expects all reports sent to him will have been thoroughly investigated, as he will place implicit reliance upon everything reported him as fact by the corps commanders except he knows the contrary. The corps commanders will please send some of the most intelligent deserters and prisonersby the speediest means to the general, so that he may be early l)ossessed of true stories, may compare their state- ments with his information, and govern himself accordingly. Respectfully, I3EINJ. F. BUTLER, Major- (~enercti, (Jommanding. (Same to General Weitzel, commanding Eighteenth Corps, and Col- onel West, commanding Cavalry 1~ivisiou. Page 369 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNI~N. 369 OCTOBER 26, 1864. Lient. Col. G. A. KENSEL, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The signal officer at James River tower rel)orts six light pieces, probably 10-pounders, in works to enemys right of Coxs Ferry iii addition to the heavy guns. Enemy building battery on new line of rifle-pits reported yesterday 60 degrees west from here (tower) on south side river. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. GLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., ARMY OF THE JAMES, No. 313. ) In the Field, Va., October 26, 1864. 1. The Two hundred and sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers is relieved from duty with the engineer department, and will report immediately to Brevet Major-General Terry, commanding Tenth Army Corps. * * * * * By command of Major-General Butler: ISRAEL li. SEALY, Assistant Adjutant- General. FORT BRADY, VA., October 26, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: have the honor to report that the enemy have shelled very slowly, and but for a short time at the Gap to-day. Returned their fire with the 4.5-inch gun alone. Moved the mortars and everything belongi~~g to them to Fort Brady to-day. Unfortunately, broke the light sling cart iii going across the canal; was compelled to transport the pieces in a Government wagon. Major Ludlow has at last ac- knowledged that the fire is very light during the day. Am glad of that. General Butler has sent two companies of infantry to support me at Fort Brady. Did not know the team with ammunition was here or I shonld have loaded it with ammunition for the 12-pounder and Sawyer guns. Will see that it is sent in the next teams. Have left a man at the Gap to look out for the magazine. Fort Brady is nearly completed. General Butler was here this p. m. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. IIDQRS. ENCINEER BRlG-. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, October 26, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Reserve Artillery: DELVR COLONEL: I have now an additioiial battery, making, with ten pieces expected from you, twenty pieces of artillery for the lines, and I shall be glad, if possible, to liave your officer, the major you 24 R RYOL XLII7 PT II Page 370 370 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. spoke of sending, one competent to take general charge of the whole of it, as I shall be glad to have him do if fitted for the duties. It requires oiie, of conrse, who would understand the service behind the lines of the light as well as the heavy guns, who would keep the batteries well supplied with the proper ammunition and see that they are properly cared for, and who would see that the platforms that our men put up are properly arranged. As the pieces sent me are, I fear, all 3-inch rifles, it appears to me that it might be well if some of your guns, say three or four, had big mouths for canister. Very truly, yours, II. W. BENHAM, Rrigadier- General, Commanding. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, General A. H. TERRY: October 26, 18647.50. General Butler directs that you inform the press correspondents that no information of the movement to-morrow shall be sent off before the day after to-mon~ow morning; not even a hint as to the prospect of moving. He will hold the correspondents strictly responsible that this order is obeyed. GEG. A. KENSEL, Chief of StatT. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIRST Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 149. B~fore Richmond, TTa., October 26, 1864. I. Hereafter the picket duty along the entire front of this division will be performed by brigades in regular routine, respectively, com- mencing this p. in. with the First Brigade, Col. A. C. Voris command- ing. The tour of duty for e~nch brigade will be as follows, viz: First Brigade, five (lays; Second Brigade, four days; Third Brigade, three days. The pickets will be relieved daily, and, as far as practicable, the detail for each day will be taken from one regiment. By order of Brig. Gen. A. Ames: CHAS. A. CAItLETOK, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SECOND Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 118. In the Field, Va., October 26, 1864. * * * * * * II. Maj. G. 13. Dyer, Ninth Maine Volunteers, is hereby relieved from command of the redoubt on the front of the Third Brigade, Sec- ond Division, and will report for duty with his regiment. He will turn over his instructions to Lieut. Col. A. Alden, One hundred and sixty- ninth New York Volunteers. III. Lieut. Col. A. Alden, One hundred and sixty-ninth New York Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the redoubt on the front of the Third Bri~ade, Second Division, and in the absence of the brigade to the command of the line now occupied by the Third Brigade. * * * * * 13y order of J3riga4icr-General Foster: P. A. DAVIS, C~~ptai~ ~r~d Assistai~t 4d,j~tqnt-Ge~er(4 Page 371 CHAP, LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 371 HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., October 26, 1864. Licat. Col. A. ALDEN, Commandinq 169th New York Volunteers: COLONEL: In the absence of the brigade or superior commanders, aud in case of au attack, you will assume coiumaud of the men left in camps of various brigades of this division, and use them as occasion may require. If all remains quiet those of the Second Brigade will be subject to the orders of Lient. Col. W. B. Coan, Forty-eighth New York Volunteers. Respectfully, yours, P. A. DAVIS, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1861. (Received 11 a. in.) Major General BUTLER: The following has just been received: - HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, OFFICE OF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 26, 1864. (ReCeived 10.45 a. in.) Lieutenant Chase, signal officer at Fort Harrison, reports that the enemy have removed all the tents from Fort Gilmer, but he is unable to discover any move- ment of troops. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, & c., S. B. PARTRIDGE, First Lieutenant, Signal Corps. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major. General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. Brig. Gen. G. MARSTON, Commanding First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: In accordance with the instructions from General Butler, which have been transmitted to you, the troops of this corps now eucamped in Coxs field, equipped and provisioned as directed by these instructions, will move to-morrow morning, at 5 oclock precisely, along the route prescribed by the same instructions, and in the following order: First, General Marstons division; second, Genera] Ileckmans; third, Colonel ilolinans division; Stitts battery (A), First Pennsylvania Artillery, will follow General Marstons division, and Lees Sixteenth New York Independent Battery will follow General Ileckinans division. The alnbulalices belonging to each division will follow in the rear of their Owli division; all other vehicles will follow in rear of Colonel ilol- Inails. The Second Brigade of the Third Division will report to Gem eral Heckmnan until further orders. Colonel Holnian will command the First Brlgade of the Third Division nntil further orders. All the re- ports, papers, & c., appertaining to the Third Division will come through Colonel Holnian, as usual. The interval between General Marston and Generi~l Hockn7lan, and General Heckman and Colonel Ilolman, on the m~h, w411 iio~ ~ au eighth ~f ~ Tiw P~Qops will P Page 372 372 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. CHAP. MV. marched at the rate of three miles in fifty minutes, resting the last ten minutes of each hour. Corps headquarters will be indicated to division commanders from time to time. Each division commander will send a staff officer to these headquarters to get the correct corps time. By command of Brevet Major-General Weitzel: D. D. WHEELEli, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. FIRST DIVIsIoN, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 26, 1864. The troops of this command will be aroused for breakfast to-morrow morning at 4 oclock, and be in line in readiness to march at precisely 5 oclock. The men will move in light marching order, carrying sixty rounds of ammunition and three days rations (cooked) on their person. The First Brigade will take the lead, followed by the Second, and that followed by the Third. All teams except the ambulance train will be in rear of the colored division. The corps of sharpshooters will report to Lieutenant-Colonel liaulston, commanding First Brigade. The column will move three miles every fifty minutes, resting ten minutes after each march. Brigade commanders will see that these requirements are complied with in their commands. By command of Brigadier.General Marston: GEORGE A. BRUCE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADqUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 26, 18641.50 p. in. [General C. K. GRAHAM:] My DEAR GENERAL: To-morrow morning I make a movement to the right and Meade will make one on the left. 1 give you this infor- mation so that you may watch your lines closely. Keel) me informed of all movements of the enemy, by courier or otherwise. Have your boats where they will do service in case the enemy try you on the left. Yours, truly, BENJ. F. BUTL iA~R, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DlVISION, In the Field, October 26, 1864. Col. SAMUEL P. SPEAR, Commanding Second Brigade: COLONEL: The colonel commanding directs that you put your brigade in condition to move at a moments notice, with three days cooked rations in haversacks, one day~s forage, and sixty rounds of ammuni- tion per man. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THEO. H. SCHENCK, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 373 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 373 CITY POINT, October 27, 18649 p. m. (Received 2 a. in. 28th.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington: I have just returned from the crossing of the Boydton plank road with Hatchers Creek. Our line now extends from its former left to Armstrongs Mill, thence by the south bank of Hatchers Creek to the point above named. No attack was made during the day further than to drive pickets and the cavalry inside the main works. Our casualties have been light, probably less thaii 200 killed, wounded, and missing. The same probably is true with the enemy. We captured, however, 7 loaded teams on their way from Stony Creek to the enemy, about a dozen beef cattle a traveling forge, and 75 to 100 prisoRers. On our right General Butler extended around well toward the Yorktown road without finding a point unguarded. I shall keep our troops out where they are until toward noon to-morrow, in hope of inviting an attack. This reconnaissance, which I had intended for more, points out to me what is to be done. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18648 p. m. (Sent 10.50 p. in.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Soon after we left Major-General Hancock he made his preparations and was about assaulting the bridge over the Boydton plank road in his front, when he received a heavy attack on his right and rear, the enemy having crossed Hatchers Run and advanced through the woods between his position and Crawford. Brigadier-General Egan, com- inanding the division, immediately desisted from his assault in his front, and, turning, met the advancing enemy; at the same time Mott, on the left, was assaulted, and Gregg in the rear. From this time till dark the fighting was sharp and severe, with varying results. At dark General Hancock maintained his position in the open ground, though he was obliged to yield the advanced line he held near the bridge to meet the direction of the attack on his right. 1\Iott also was drawn into the plank road, but Gregg maintained his position steadily, covering the left rear. Hancock lost a number of prisoners in the skirmish line in the early part of the action, but took several hundred during the light, probably more than he lost. At one time two pieces of his artillery were given up, but soon retaken, as soon as troops could be collected for the purpose. On the whole, I should judge from the reports of staff~ officers, in the absence of any other dispatches, that General Hancock made a glorious fight, and, although having to yield some ground, pun- ished the enemy severely. In accordance with your instructions, he was directed to withdraw to-morrow morning, but since receiving the above intelligence I have notified him I could send Ayres division to re-enforce him, and if the condition of his command and other circum- stances justified it I wished him to hold on to-morrow, but if, in his judgment, it was more judicious to withdraw he could do so to-night. One difficulty in his remaining is the want of ammunition, his train not having accompanied. him, and the continuous fighting having nearly exhausted the sixty rounds carried on the mens persons. The defile communicating with him will be so filled with troops going to him and aminilances retnrning that it would be difficult, if not impossible, t Page 374 374 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CHAP. tIV. supply him to-night. Crawford moved up the run after driving in their skirmishers and confronted the enemy on its bank, but owing to the very dense thicket through which he had to move and the slashed tim- ber in the run, did not succeed in finding a practicable place to attack. He connected, however, with Griffin on this bank. Griffin, after miii- utely examining the enemys position on this side, found him so strongly intrenched he deemed it useless to attempt to carry any part of the line. So soon as J hear from General Hancock I will advise you of what it is proposed to do to-morrow. I have no return of casualties, but have reason to believe Hancocks losses have been severe. On this side the medical director estimates the wounded of the Fifth and Ninth Corps at about 200. GEG. G. MEADE, ]Jliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18649 p. rn. (Sent 11.15 p. in.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT: I forward a dispatch,* just received from Major-General Hancock, by which you will see he has concluded to withdraw, in which opinion U fully concur, as I doubt the practicability of supplying him with am- muuition and re-enforcing him in time to-morrow. Besides, were this practicable, it would be a siniple matter for the enemy to move a part of their force over Hatchers Run and attack iuy weakened right wing, my wings being separated by more than six miles, whereas they have less than two to move from one point to theother. After Hancock has recovered I will to-morrow leisurely withdraw to our iutrenchments, and if the enemy is disposed to come out of his lines and attack on this side I will give him battle. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. General Hancock claims a decided success, havin6 repulsed all the enemys attacks and made many prisoners. He regrets the necessity Of withdrawing, but places it on the (lifficulty of being in time re-en- forced and supplied with ammunition. CITY POINT, VA., October 27, 186412 p. rn. Major-General MEADE: Your dispatch, with that from Hancock, just received. Now that the enemy have taken to attacking, I regret the necessity of withdraw- ing, but see the cogency of your reasoning. If ammunition could have been taken up on pack animals it might have enabled us after all to have gained the end we started out for. The enemy attacking rather indicates that he has been touched on a weak point. Do not change, however, the directions you have given. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. See Hancock to Humphreys, 9 p. in., p. 382 Page 375 OHAP. LITh] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 375 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18644 p. m. Major-General HuMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Deserters from Eleventh Florida, Finegans brigade, came into the lines of the First Division, Second Army Corps, last evening, about 12 oclock. Up to that time no movement took place on Mahones front. Neither the men nor company officers of the Eleventh Florida knew of our movement. A very unintelligent deserter from Twenty-seventh North Carolina, Cookes brigade, came in about noon to-day; came in from the picket-line. Went out on picket last evening, at which time his brigade had not moved. Understood this morning abont 11 oclock that the brigade had moved to the right. Cannot say that any other brigades have moved. Heard that his brigade (Cookes) had gone toward the South Side Railroad. Respectfully, JNO. C. BABCOCK. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18647.30 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Enemy~ force in works on our front and left remains unchanged. Camps west of Weldon railroad apparently the same. Enemy is drilling in small squads in vicinity of railroad. [A. K. CAROTHERS.] JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18649 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Camp consisting of about two brigades west of Weldon railroad and half a mile to the left of the lead-works partially broken up and troops moving southwest, taking no road visible from this point. A. K. CAROTHERS, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18649.05 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: The enemy along this whole front are breaking camps and moving west. The largest column noticed was eight minutes in passing a point. There are apparently bat very few men left in their works north from this station. SLEEPER, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD S1GNAL STATION, October 27, 186410 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: All camps west of Weldon railroad and to the right of large fort broken up and troops moving west on road south of large fort; number about 3,000, incl~iding those of last report. [A. K. CAROTHERS. Page 376 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 186410.15 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISnER, Chief Signal Qificer, Army of the Potomac: About one hour ago a column of the enemys infantry was noticed on Boydton plank road near fort, 15 degrees east of north, moving west; marched well closed and were fifteen minutes in passing a point. Another column of enemys infantry just observed in rear of their works west from this station marching cast; twenty minutes in passing a point. SLEEPER, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 186111.20 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: A colnmn of~ infantry, number about 1,600, appeared in vicinity of lead-works, coming from the direction of Petersburg; disappeared mov- ing west on road south of large fort; twenty-fonr ambulances preceded the column. There appears to be considerable confusion in enemys camps on the extreme left visible from this point. No changes in our front. [A. K. CAROTHERS.] CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 186411.30 a. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: A column of enemys infantry just passed open space north-northwest from this station, moving west on the Boydton plank road. The column was marching rapidly and was twenty minutes in passing a point. SLEEPER, Sergeant. FRONT OF FORT HOWARD, October 27, 186412 m. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: About 1,500 infantry left this front east of Butterworths house and moved west on Boydtou plank road. They were six minutes passing a point east of lead.works. C. G. AIKEX, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 186412.20 p. m. Maj. B. F. FIsHER: At 12 m. about 2,000 infantry appeared in vicinity of lead-works moving south as far as large fort and disappearing on road running west; at the same time abont 100 infantry moved toward Petersburg from works in our immediate front. [A. K. CAROTHERS. Page 377 CHAP. LIVI CORI~ESPONDENCE, ETC .IJMON. 377 CHURCH RoM SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18G412.30 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: A column of the enemys infantry ~just passed large fort near lead- works, moving west on Boydton plank road; colmnn marched well closed, and were twenty-three minutes in passing a point. SLEEPER, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18641.40 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: At 1 p. m. a column of infantry, numbering about 1,200, moved to our left, coming from the direction of Petersburg, and disappearing on road running west from large fort. At the same time a column of dust ap- peared rising from some road not visible from this point farther west, and continued twenty-three minutes. A. K. CAROTHERS, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18642.30 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: At 2 p.m.about2 ,000 infantry moved westward on road south of large fort coming from works and woods iu the vicinity of the fort. A train of sixteem~ ambulances and ten wagons followed the column. A. K. CAROTHERS, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18642.30 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chif Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: Since last report six regiments of the enemys infantry have passed large fort near the lead-works, moving west on Boydton plank road. The column last reported moved into enemys works about 10 degrees south of west from this station. The six regiments above reported were followed by eleven ambulances and two pieces of artillery. SLEEPER, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18644.45 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: Since last report one column of the enemys infantry have passed large fort near lead-works, moving west on B[oydton] p[lank] r[oadJ; twelve minutes in passing a point. About 150 pack-mules and le Page 378 378 OPEl~ATIONS TN SE. VA. AND N. C. E~ThAP. LIV. horses and a large park of wagons, guarded by about one squadron of cavalry, are halted in open space north -northwest from this station have been there three hours. SLEEPEli, Serqeant. Fomr HOWARD SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18645.20 p. in.. Ma. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer: No change in the enemys line on this front observed since last report. All quiet in enemys camps. No chauge observed in their picket-Line. C. G. AIKEX, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD S1GNAL STATION, October 27, 1864 5.30 p. in. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Since report of 2.30 p. m. there has been small parties of infantry and cavalry scattered and ambulances and wagons passing to our left on road running west from large fort. Lines in our front as far left as lead-works remain unchanged. From lead-works south as far as can l)e seen the forces in works appear to be standing in small detachments as if about to move. Artillery horses have been brought iu works on Weldon railroad. A. K. CAROTHERS, Sergeant. INEAiI GIBBONS HOuSE, October 27, 1864. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer: Nothing of importance has been seen from this station this p. m. There have been no working parties engaged on any of the enemys works to-day. B. W. MARCY, In Charge of Station. HDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, Col. W. W. HAYT, October 27, 1864. Commanding 189th ATeJc York Volnnteers: You will move your regiment out to-morrow early and report to Col. J. A. Mathews, commanding post near Old Court House, and camp on the ridge back of the Two hundred and fifth Pennsylvania Volnuteers, on the ground formerly occupied by the Two hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers. By order of Brig. Gen. H. W. Benham: CHANNJN(} CLAPP, As8istant Adjntant- & ~eneral Page 379 CR& p. LI~.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 379 HEADQUARTERS, Hatchers, October 27, 18647.3O. General HUMPUREYS, Chief of Staff: I have forced the crossing after a little brisk firing. It was held by Youngs brigade of cavalry. Firing has been heard in the direction of Cregg, but nothing from Parke. I am a little anxioas about this last matter. The water in Hatchers Run is about waist deep, except at the ford. The enemy had felled timber in it. Respectfully, your obedient servant, WINFI) S. HANCOCK, Major- General. General HUMPHREYS: I have sent this to Warren, urged him to push to the run, and get a part of his force over at least, and communicate with Hancock. What is the condition of affairs at your front now ~ GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. (Copy to General Parke.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18G4[) a. rn. (Received 10.40 a. in.) Major-General HANCOCK: Your dispatch received. Parke has confronted the enemy on the Hawks road and is pushing them 1~ack to their works. I fear there is no chance of his getting into them. Warren is working his way to cross Hatchers Run on Parkes leftslow work, having to make a roa(l. It would be well for you to keep np a communication with War- ren, to ascertain his progress. I will direct him to communicate with you. I will advise you of all that happens as it occurs. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARJ~Y OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18641O.45 a. m. (Received about 12 in.) Major-General HANCOCK, Gommanding Second Corps: General Warren finds the enemy intrenched on a line running near to Armstrongs mill pond. He has not crossed any of his men yet, but will cross a division at once at Armstrongs Mill, and will follow with the rest of his command. Look out for your right flank and see that there is no enemy between you amid Hatchers Run. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff Page 380 (CHAP. LIV. 380 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 186410.45 a. m. General HANCOCK: Warren will cross a division at once at Armstrongs Mill and the rest of his corps will follow. The enemys line strong; extends apparently to Armstrongs mill pond. Look out f~or your right and see that there is no enemy between you and Hatchers IRun. A. A. H[UMPHREYS], Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 27, 186410.45 a. m. General HTJNPIIREYS, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: My second division is past I)abneys Mill; the Third Division is following. There has been a good deal of skirmishing with dismounted cavalry this morning, which has delayed me. Gregg is now firing in the direction I am marching, which is said to be the best road to Hatchers. - I am, sir, your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 27, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief f Staff: GENERAL: I am at the Bnrgess house, on Boydton plank. General Gregg has just come up. Part of the enemys cavalry retired by Bur- gess across Hatchers Run. General Gregg captured a few wagons. 1 am about moving ont on White Oak road. It is six miles from this point to railroad and about two to bridge. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18644.15 p. m. (Received 5.20.) Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second L1orps: The signal officers report the movement of the enem.y~s troops down the Boydton plank road. No doubt they are concentrating toward you. The commanding general (lirects me to say that your orders remain unchanged; that is, to withdraw to-morrow morning and move back. You must withdraw Crawford also at the same time and send him to General Warren. The road between here and your headquarters is still infested by small parties of the enemys cavalry or guerrillas. Please have it heavily patrolled now and during the night. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and (thief of Staff Page 381 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCb, ETC.UNION. 381 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18G45.15 p.m. General HANCogK: Ayres is orriered to you, but will not ge~ beyond Armstrongs Mill. Order him up if you think it is necessary, and use him as you wish, if you think that with Crawford and Ayres you can attack successfully, do so; if not, withdraw, as directed, or during the night, if you think it best. A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. Let the commanding general know what the condition of things is and your opinion. A.A.II. Duplicated at 6.15 p. m. by one of General ll.s staff officers. General H. authorized to withdraw at any time he thought best, if he considered an attack in the morning with the forces named would not be successful. A.A.H. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18G45.15 p. rn. Major-General HANcOCK, Commanding Second Corps: Upon receiving your message by Major Biddle, the commanding gen- eral at once ordered Gcneral Ayres to move to your support, but it is so late that he will not be able to get beyond Armstrongs Mill, on the run, from which point lie will report to you, and you can make such use of him as you see fit. If you think that with Crawford and Ayres ~joined to your own troops you can attack successfully, the counnanding general desires you to do so. If not, you can withdraw as directed, and during the night if you consider it best. Since writing the above Captain Dresser has come in and reports that you attacked the bridge, but did not succeed. This, the commanding general thinks, may be the origin of the report brought by Major Biddle. Let the commanding general know what the condition of things is, and your opinion as to what is best to be done. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. If you wish Ayres to come up, will you send an orderly back with this escort, so that he can show General Ayrcs exactly where to find you. A.A.H. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 1864G.20 p. m. (Received 8.35 p. in.) Major-General HANcocK, Commandin,q Second Corps: Your staff officer that left you about fifteen or twenty minutes after Captain Mason has just arrived and delivered your message. The coin- umanding general directs me to say that you can withdraw at once if you deem it most judicious, or at any time during the night. Captain Ja Page 382 382 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CRAP. LIY. has takeii you a dispatch saying that Ayres division (two brigades of it, one is now with Crawford) was ordered to move to you, and that he is now at Armstrongs Mill, and will come up if you walit him. The dispatch also said in substa.~ce that the commanding general desires to say that if yon thought yon could attack successfully in the morning, you could have Crawfbrd and Ayres; but if not, to withdraw whenever you deemed it most judicious. He wished yonr opinion, as well as to kiiow the condition of affairs with you; that he has now learnt from your staff officer. Ayres was ordered to Armstrongs Mill upon receiv- ing your message by Major Biddle. A. A. HUMPHREYS Major- General and Chief of ~S~taft If you withdraw to night, leave some force at Dabneys Mill to aid in withdrawing Crawford. Notify us of the time you intend to withdraw so that Crawford can receive orders. A.A.H. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY Coiws, October 27, 18649 p. m. General HUMPHREYS: GRNERAL: In answer to your dispatch T have to say that I have di- rected may command to return to the vicinity of the Gurley house. General Egan, with his division, is instrncted to hold Dabneys Mill and communicate with General Crawford if possible, and arrange with him abont withdrawing. I have not been able to find General Crawford since about 4 p. m. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 186410.30 p. m. Major-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: - Your dispatch of 9 p. m. is received. The commanding general desires you to halt after crossing Hatchers Run and replenish your ammunition. Will send you further orders there. General Warren will attend to drawing in Gemmeral Crawford, and will see that General Egan is notified when he can withdraw. A. A. ITIUMPHREYS, Mdjor- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQIJARTEII~ SECOND ARMY CORPS, [October 27, 1864.] [General HUMPITREYS:] GENERAL: ln reply to your dispatch, I have to say that if I had two fresh divisions and ammunition fGr nmy own command, 1 would attack to-morrow morning, but I consider time chances of these things being here at an early enough hour to be uncertain and the risk considerable. Of may own batteries, one has nO mmunition, another only that in time llrnbevs? ~nd fl~ tJ4i~d h~ 1o~t all its QfdCeV~ a11~1 14~ Qflly three m~ Page 383 CHAP. LIv.~ CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.UNION. 383 per piece. I think the circumstances iiidicate falling back to be the proper course. I have a frail hold on the roads between inc and the Fifth Corps, and if any accident should prevent my receiving the airnnunition and troops at an early hour, the result would be a disaster, as the enemy have hemmed me in and pressed me closely. Barring accidents, I donbt the feasibility of issuing ammunition and getting up troops to-night, and will, therefore, withdraw rather than take the responsibility of disaster. At the same time I regret it, as I have resisted successfully so far. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General of Volunteers. General Gregg says he is short of ammunition, and his fight lasted so late that his command is disorganized to an extent to make it impracticable to issue to them in the night. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 1864. General N. A. MiLES, Avery House: The commanding general desires that you will closely watch the enemy in your front, and acqaaint him by telegraph with any move- ments that you may discover. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 1864. General N. A. MILES, Commanding Division, AS~ee6nd Corps, Avery House: Should you discover that the enemy has greatly weakened his forces in your front and so report, or shonld the commanding general receive from other sources information leading to this conclusion, you may be required to collect all the available forces you can, say 2,000 men, and make an attempt to break through the enemys line. The commanding general therefore desires that, with a view to such order, you have a suitable point of assen*lage for your available forces selected and your plans so arranged that, should you receive instructions of the character indicated, you may be prepared to execute them with the least delay possible. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECoND ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: Your two dispatches received. Movements of the enemy will be promptly reported as soon as discovered. The only change yet is the disappearance of ~ camp of about sixty tents on the right of the lead- works, N~, A. MILES, Bri~tdP~r- Genera Page 384 384 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIRST Div., SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 551. October 27, 1864. * * * * * * * 2. Col. K. 0. Broady, Sixty-first New York Volunteers, having reported for duty, will assume command of the First Brigade, he being the senior officer present. 3. Colonel MacDougall, One hundred and eleveiith New York Volun- teers, having reported for duty, will assume command of the Consoli- dated Brigade, he being the senior officer present in that brigade. * * * * * * * 5. Col. G. N. Macy, Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers, having been relieved from the command of the Consolidated Brigade, is placed in command of the rear line of works, viz, Battery No. 4, the new work near the Dunn house and the new work near the Avery house. By order of Brigadier-General Miles: WM. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, Captain DRIVER, October 27, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the enemy are moving to our left along the picket-line in one rank, apparently in heavy march- ing order, and have been marching for about a half hour in front of Fort Morton. I am, very respectfully, K. 0. BROADY, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18647 a. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding E~fth Army Corps: General Parke sent in word about half an h~r ago that just before Willeoxs column passed the fort at Hawks about 1,000 of the enemys dismounted cavalry passed down the Duncan road. You have proba- bly strQck them. K A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. $ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18649 a. m. Major-General WARREN: Hancock has crossed ~ Run. Parke has met the enemy and is pushing them back to their works. I have no idea he will be abJe to carry them, and it is of importance you should get over Hatchers Run with a part of youi command at least and communicate with Hancock. GEO. (1. MEADE, ltliajor- General, Commanding Page 385 CHAP. LIY.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 385 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH An~ Y CORPS, October 27, 18649.30 a. m. General MEAD I struck the IDuncan road about one-third of a mile north of MT. Armstrongs and found a road leading directly west. After going about one-quarter of a mile west of the Dun can road I struck the enemy, and he has just repulsed an attempt to advance by that route. I used Gregorys brigade iu the demonstration. I have sent a l)artY down the l)uncan road to connect with Hancock. From the stren~tli of the enemys force I expect it will not be practicable for meto cross Hatchers Run above Armstrongs Mill. I connect with Parkes skirmishers. Respectfully, G. K WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 186410.30 p. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: General Hancock sends word that General Egan will halt at Dabneys Mill and endeavor to communicate with Crawford. He will probably reach Dabneys Mill at daylight. I have notifie& General H[ancockj that you will attend to Crawfords withdrawal and that you will see that General Egan is notified when he can withdraw. A. A. H[UMPHREYS], Major- General and Chief of Staff. IIEADQIJARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 18649.30 a. m. General HANCOCK: I have heard that you are across Hatchers Run. I am about one mile north of Armstrongs Mill, on the Duncan road. The enemy repulsed just now an attempt of mine to go west. I expect I shall have to cross the run by way of Armstrongs Mill. I h& ve sent down the Duncan road to connect with you by patrol. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECONI) ARMY CORPS, October 27, 786412.30 p. m. General G. K. WARREN: GENERAL: I am on the Boydton road about moving over to White Oak road. General Gregg has just joined me near the Burgess Tavern. I have had considerable skirmishing with Hamptons cavalry, which appears to have all, or nearly all, retired across the run. General Gregg captured a few wagons. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, iVIajor. General, 25 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 386 386 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 18613.30 a. m. [General PARKE :1 GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that it will be better for you to take the Vaughan road, and thence to Poplar Spring Church, instead of the wood road. It will be much better than going through the woods at night time. It is the same route you went before. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FR}~D. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjntc(nt- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 18641 p. m. General GRIFFIN: I wish you would have your skirmishers on the left to press up against the enemy and commence firing. The woods south of Hatchers Run are so dense we need the sound to guide us in moving up. If you see any chance of gaining their line, do it. Have this done (the firing) as soon as you can. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 186410.30 p. m. (Received 11.30 p. in.) General GRIFFIN: General Meade has decided to have General Hancock withdraw to- night, as the distance around is too great for us to give mutual support. General Crawford will withdraw at daybreak. I wish you would use General Bartletts brigade, or part, of it, to strengthen your line and extend it to the left toward the run at earliest daylight, so as to pre- vent the enemy getting around yonr left flank and between you and the run while these withdrawals are going on; after this we shall all be in position on this side. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 27, 1864. [Major-General WARREN:] GENERAL: I attacked the enemy in the intrenchments where they come down to the creek. They have now re-enforced that point. The rebels who captured prisoners from Hancock are coming in and being captured, and our men recaptured. The rebels have got in on my left flank and Hancocks right. I have prisoners from Mahone. Very respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General Page 387 CHAI~. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 387 HEADQUARTERS THIRD DiVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 27, 18646.45 p. rn. [Major-General WARREN:] GENERAL: I sent out scouts on my left. One, an intelligent officer, has just returned. He says lie saw a considerable body of troops pass- ing to my left on the road crossing Hatchers Run above my position. It is half a mile. Unless this gap is closed I may expect hot work to-morrow, as a prisoner just received says Mahones division was on the march at dark, crossed the run, and going toward Hancock. One prisoner has just been taken from MacRaes brigade (Heth). Same relieved MacRae at 8 oclock to-day. I feel more apprehensive for my left and rear than my front. Respectfully, S. W. C1~AWFORD, Brigadier- Gemeral. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 186410 p. n~. General CRAWFORD: Generals Hancock and Gregg had a pretty heavy fight this evening and repulsed all the attacks, and took about 700 prisoners; but being out of ammunition, and bis troops in such condition that he cannot issue any to-night, he is ordered to withdraw, and will be doing so during the night. He is directed to leave a force at the steam saw-mill till you withdraw. ]i think you had best begin to withdraw as soon as you can see in the morning, taking care to bring in all your pickets, and drive in the stragglers. You can withdraw down your side of the rear, or you can make a bridge and cross over in rear of Griffins line of skirmishers, or go back by the way you came. In any case, inform General Hancocks force at the saw-mill of your having done it, and be sure that all youi own men at that place are brought in. Let me know of the receipt of this, an(l keep inc informed in the morning of your movements. When you get this side of the river if you cross near your present right form in tw~ lines on C riffins left if you get no other instructions. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD Div., FIFTH CORPS, On Weldom Railroad, October 27, 18645 p. m. Lient. Col. F. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General: All quiet on my front and rear. No demonstration from enemy, and nothing of importance to report. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. BAXTER, I3rigadier- General, Commanding Brigade Page 388 388 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 27, 18647.30 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Gorps: The cominainding general wishes you to push ahead more rapidly and get into position. The rear of Ferreros division is still at the Cleinents house fort. It is probable that there is no chance left for surprising the enemys works, but the troops should be in position as quickly as it is possible to get theni. The pickets in front the intrench- ments should be thrown forward to join those crossing the Duncan road as soon as the latter are established. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, lVatkins House, October 27, 18649.45 a. m. Major-General MEADE: I have just received your dispatch, with one from General Hancock. ,General Hnmphreys has gone on to Warren. General Willeox is up with the enemys line, and is now engaged, skirmishing. He is extend- ing to the left to connect with Warren, and, if he finds a weak spot, will attempt to carry the line. Potter is across the road to the north of the Hawks redoubt, and Ferrero occupies the interval between Will- cox and Potter. Skirmishing still going on in front of Willeox. He is feeling their line. Yours, respectfully, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General. OCTOBER 27, 186411 a. m. PARKE: Dispose your troops so as to cover the roads by which the enemy can reach and attack yotm, connecting wit Warrens right. If the enemy comes out of his works attack hini. Keep a good lookout for him. Warreu is sending a division across hatchers Run. A. A. H[UMPHREYS], Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, Watkins House, October 27, 18645 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I have a continuous line of pickets and skirmishers from General War- rens right to our old position, Potters right connecting with the left of the line thrown out from the intrenched position. I have sent for the intrenching tools, and will have the line intrenched, unless other- wise directed. Very respectfully, JNO. G. PARKE, Major- General Page 389 CHAP, LIY.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 389 HEADQLTARTERS FIRST DrvIsIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS October 27, 18646.05 a. m. Major LYDIQ Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corjps: A column of rebel troops has been crossing the road for some time, moving to our left in through the brier swamp. Cutcheons skirmishers are n~w exchai~ging shots. Yery respectfully, & c., 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. II7EADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864. Maj. P. M. LYPIG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ninth Army Corps: MAJOR: The enemys skirmishers made a dash on the center of iAy skirmish line, but were repulsed, and my line is ic-established on the 01(1 ground. My loss was but three wounded. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. FlRsT DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864. Brigade commanders will see that as much slashing is done as possi- ble in front of their works before night as nothing can be accomplished after dark. While the slashing parties are at work the men will be umi(ler arms in the pits. A large nuiuber of men are in the rear, getting water, & c. All the me~n must be kept with their respective reginients ready for any emergency. By command of Brigadier-General Willeox: JNO. D. BERTOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864. Bi-igade commanders will see that their troops sleep with their accouterments on, amid that one-third of the officers and men are kept on duty and on the alert during the night. Time troops will stand to arias in the trenches fifteen minutes before daybreak in tIme morning, and remain under arms until half an hour after daylight, ready for any emergency. The slashing will be continued in the morning. Care will be taken so as not to draw the fire of the enemy. By coinmnand of Brigadier-General Wilicox: JN0. D. BEIJOLETTE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 390 9 ~)JO OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tCIIAP, lAY. IIEADQUARTERS NiNTh ARMY CORPS, Qclober 27, 18646.80 p. m. Brigadier-General POTTER: GENERAL: The commanding general requests that you have your command under arms at dawn of (lay, so as to repel any attack the enemy might make at that hour. Respectfully, yours, P. M. LYI)IG, Major and Assistant A d jute itt- 0 eneral. CLEMENTS I-lOUSE. October 27, 18649 a. m. Major-General BUTLER, Aikens ilion e: The movements at this end have not yet resulted in anything more than a little skirmishing and forcing the enemy back toward their lines. The Second Corps and the cavalry have forced the crossin~ of hatchers Run, and are moving west. The Ninth Corps confront the enemy in their works north of Hatchers Run. The Fifth Corps is moving be- tween the Second and Ninth Corps. 110w are you progressing on the right? - U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NEAR DARBYTOWN ROAD. October 27, 18649.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Terry has advanced to Darby road, (Irivin g in the enemys l)ickets. Weitzeis column was on iDarby road at 8 oclock, wher eit joins Drill- Room road, in time, and where he ought to be. All going on well. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Darbytown., October 27, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: We have driven in the pickets of the enemy, by Terry, as far as Charles City road. Weitzel has reached, at 1.40 p. in., the exterior lines on the Williamsburg road, and finds Fields division in his front. He is going to the right as far as Yorktown [York River j railroad to see where the enemys right rests. Fields right rested this morning near the Darby- town road. He has extended, therefore, four miles. Shall I make a trial on this outstretched line. Casualties few as yet. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. WARRENS STATION, October 27, 18645.40 p. in. (Received 5.50 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: The result on the left has been to find the enemy as far as we have extended to the left. Oar troops are nOW eight miles west of the We Page 391 CHAP. LIYJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 391 don railroad, from which point I have just returned. Your dispatch of 3.30 is ouiy just received, too late to direct an attack. Hold on where you are for the present. ~. ~. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Near New ]Ifa ket Road, October 27, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: We have not been able to turn the enemy~s left, although Weitzel has demonstrated to the left of the Williamsburg road. I have there ordered him back to the Charles City road; sent one division in the line between Darbytown and Charles City, and massed two divisions with cavalry to bold to White Oak Swamp. Terry holds from Darbytown to our intrenched hues on the New Market road. Have you any orders? BENJ. F. BUTLER. CITY PoINT, October 27, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: I have no special orders further than to direct that your troops keep as near all they now hold as they can favorably to receiving an attack, if the enemy can be induced to do such a thing. You need not make any further advance, however, unless it be in following up a repulse of the enemy. The enemy is now so extended that he must be very weak iu the middle. If it is possible to get a force together for the purpose I would try an attack in the morning south of Bake-House Creek. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROL1NA, October 27, 1864. (Received 12 in.) Major-General BUTLER, At the Front: A note just received fr6m General Graham, stating that Lieutenant Day, stationed at Battery Marshall, reports that the enemy stationed in his front were quite busy during the night. He thought they were removing the artillery. Also, that he heard but one bugle call this morning and only three drum reveilles. R. S. DAVIS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 27, 18649.40 p. nm. Major-General BUTLER, At the Front: Colonel Jourdan has been telegraphed to know about any firing on his line to-day, but no answer received yet. We have heard nothing of it here. Think you must have heard Dutch Gap. The Army of the Potomac has reached the Boydton road. R. S. DAVIS, )Iliajor and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 392 392 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. hEADQUARTERS, October 27, 186410.05 p. m. (Received 10.30 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: There has been for the last twenty minutes, and still continues, a very heavy and continuous cannonachug, as we suppose before the Army of the Potomac. II. S. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 27, 186411.30 p. m. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, with General Butler: The heavy firing that I referred to in my last telegraph to the general occurred in front of the Second Corps. R. S. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant- General. OCTOBER 27, 1864. Brig. Gen. RUFUS INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, City Point: I have just arrived from the front. Everything looks favorable. Our right rests on the Williamsburg road, about three miles and a half from Richmond. Please telegraph me the news from the Army of the Potomac. Truly, yours, G. S. DODGE, Colonel and Chief Quartermaster. OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, VA., C~ity Point, Va., October 27, 1864. Col. GEORGE S. DODGE, Chief Quartermaster, Army of the James: The Army.of the Potomac has not done much severe fighting to-day. Our lines on the left have been extended and now cover the Boydton road. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General and Chief Quartermaster. - OCTOBER 27, 18647 a. in. [Captain CLUM:] Two passenger-cars with passengers and three freight-cars toward Richmond. There were three trains toward Richmond last night; the first, at 4 a. in., was heavily loaded. VAN VLECK, Lieutenant. Page 393 CHAP LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 393 IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND Noum CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 27, 18G49 a. m. (Received 9.50 a. in.) Captain CLUM Chief Siinal Officer, with General Butler: (General Terrys headquarters.) A train of eight freight-cars (contents unknown) toward Petersburg; an extra train. VAN VIECK, Lieutenant. OCTOBER 27, 186410.30 a. in. Captain CLUM, Chief Signal Officer, General Butlers Headquarters: (At General Terrys headquarters.) Quite rapid musketry firing in front of Battery No. 3. AMSDEN, Lieutenant. - HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 18G412 rn. Captain CLUM: Three small regiments have just crossed the New Market road, going to our right. They came from the direction of the J ames River. 131101)JE. [Indorsement.] Forward to General Terry. BENJ. F. BUTLER. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, October 27, 18G14.40 p. rn. Captain CLUM, Chief Signal Officer, General Butlers Headquarters: (At General Terrys headquarters.) Four freight-cars (contents unknown) and three passenger with pas- sengers toward Richmond; regular train. All quiet on the enemys lines during the day. VAN YLECK, Lieutenant. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 27, 1864. (Received 7.30 p. in.) Colonel JOURDAN: The commanding general desires to know what and where that firing was this p. m. H. R. CLUM, Captain and Chief Signal Otficer Page 394 394 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Caip. LIV. FORT BURNHAM, October 27, 1864. Capt. H. IR. CLUM, Chief Signal Officer, Department: The firing commenced from the enemys gun-boats and was taken np and continned by their mortar batteries in front and left flank for about half an hour, directing their fire upon this fort. I responded with my guns in Fort Buruham, and ceased as soon as the enemy stopped firing. As far as I have heard I have had but one man wounded. Enemy firing poor. J. JOURDAK, Colonel, Commanding. OCTOBER 27, 18645.30 p. m. (Received 8 p. in.) Captain CLUM, Chief Signal Officer, General Butlers Hecd quarters: (Through station at Geneial Terrys headquarters.) A train of cars heavily loaded toward Petersburg. VAN VLECK, Lieutenant. FORT BRADY, VA., October 27, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy have been obedient to the 4.5-inch gun to-day, firing little and ceasing very soon after it opened. Two companies of colored troops were ordered here for support last night by Major-General Butler; were directed to report to me. Have encamped them just outside the work. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: I have just received information that the enemy are driving in our cavalry pickets on the right. ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet Mc~jor- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 27, 18641.50 p. m. [General TERRY:] Send a couple brigades to support West and develop the movement of the enemy to find his intention. Look a little to the right on the New Market flank. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major. General, Commanding Page 395 CHAP. ILIY.j COR ESPONI)ENCE, ETC.UMON. 395 HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October ,& 7, 1864. General TURNER, Departmeftt Head quctrters: The enemy have driven in our l)ickets on the Darbytown road and are moving down it in column. Please send a battery and brigade from lleckmans command down the Kingsland road to Jourdan. ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 186412.30 p. m. Lieutenant SHREVE, Acting A8si8tclnt Adjutant- General. LIEUTENANT: Major Itandlett, commanding picket-line of the right brigade, reports that the right of his line is about 250 yards from the Charles City road. The enemys works extend to that road. The captain of the cavalry company, which is on my right, reports that he is on Charles City road, and that the enemy have a battery in the road. He does not state whether this Mttery is behind works or not. I have sent for more definite iiiformnation. If the distance from the right of my skirmish line from the Charles City road is not greater than 250 yards, as reported by Major Randlett, I shall soon have my line extended to it, as I have already sent i regiment for that purpose. I have just received intelligence that the guns above referred to are behind hastily constructed works. Very respectfully, A. AMES, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 18642.48 p. rn. Lieutenant SI-JIZEVE, A etiny Assistant Adjutant- General: LIEUTENANT: Colonels Plaisted and Voris report that the enemys line is quite strong and with considerable force behind them, as has already been reported to-day. It has been reported by an officer on the skirmish line that he saw re-enforcements coming in. This officer is the only one who makes this report. The sergeant of the cavalry company on my extreme right reports that sometime since he saw the Fifth Pennsylvania and Third New York Cavalry advancing slowly up the Charles City road, and that it was reported to him that the Eight- eenth Corps was on their right. The sergeant estimates the time since he left the Charles City road as about one hour amid a half. Very respectfully, A. AMES, Brigadier- General Page 396 3% OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CoRps, October 27, 18613.45 p. m. Lieutenant SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: LIEUTENANT: I have received additional information from another source that the enemy is moving troops to our right, indicating a con- tinuous movement. The officer reporting this is on the left of my line. Yery respectfully, A. AMES, Brigadier- General. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FIRST 1)IY., TENTII ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864I .10 p. m. Captain CARLETON, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have the honor to report that on my right the enemy appears to have two lines of abatis between his detached pits and his maui line. On the left and center is a heavy slashing and, I believe, abatis, though I could not make out clearly. My line of skirmishers, Tweii ty-fourth Massachusetts, is strong and pushing as closely as possible. The four pieces of artillery in the salient of the line in front of about your positiou enfilade my hue and is like advancing against the curtain of a bastioued fort; still, we drove the rebels out of his pits, capturing five prisoners. Up to about noon the indications were that the enemy was [not] so strong as lie is now. Since noon many more heads have appeared. The force has not diminished any, so fhr as we can judge, since noon. I have Md a bright sergeant up a tree noting every indication. I have been on the skirmish line, or one of my staff, all the time. Your order to get information as to the movement of troops (Fields division) is committed to Captain hawkins, acting assistant inspector-general; he will see it executed. Respectfully, H. M. PLAISTED, Colonel Eleventh Maine, Commanding Brigade. SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18644.10 p. m. General TERRY: Captain Camp, commanding skirmishers, reports that he has seen rebel troops with knapsacks going from their right to their left at a double-quick. hAWLEY, General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 1864. Brigadier-General HAWLEY, Commanding Third Division: The general commanding directs me to say that he has received your dispatch stating that enemy is moving to your right. If you think they have stripped the works in front of you of troops, push in. Very respectfully, & c., ~ ~. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 397 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 397 SIGNAL STATION, October 27, 18645 p. m. General TERRY: Colonel Wright, most excellent officer, riding along my whole line, ~s inclined to think the enemy reduced, but can really give no reasons or clear facts. HAWLEY. Gm CP(( 1. [lidorsemenLj Respectfully forwarded. General Hawley has orders to push in if the force is so far reduced as to give him a good chance of success. ALF. H. TERRY, Brevet Afajor- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, October 27, 1864 8 a. m. Licut. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjatant- General, Department oj Va. and IV. ( . At this hour the head of my column has struck the Darbytown road at its intersection with the Drill-Room road. There is skirmishing going on in my front, which I suppose to be Spears clearing out rebel scouts and pickets according to my instructions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, October 27. 18649.50 a. m. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of La. and N1 C.: At this hour the head of my column has reached Whitcs Tavern. Colonel West reports the enemys line to extend across the Charles City road: the works on this road are reported formidable and heavily manned. It is further reported to me that General Terrys line does not come up to this road; I have sent a staff officer to ascertain his right. I suppose that, notwithstandiiig the fact that General Terry does not come to this road as ordered, you desire me to take the road past Mrs. Carters to the Williamsburg road, and I shall move on that supposition, trying to keep communication with Terrys liii through the cavalry. Please send me orders what you wish me BOW to do. I intend to move down the Charles City road to the road which goes to the Williamsburg road about three-quarters of a mile bcl9w here. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WE1TZEL, Brevet IViajor- General Page 398 898 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [Ow. LIY~ HEADQUARTERS EIGHTERNTH ARMY Cours, October 27,1864. Lieutenant-Colonel Sm!rH Aaeietant A4jutant-dener4 Department of Va and L 0.: I have just wived at the intersection of the Williamsburg and tha old Fair Oaks battle-ground. You understand now that I am entirely lost from Terry. I have thus far encountered nothing but cavalry. servant, Very respectfully, your obedient ~. WE[TZEL, Brevet Major-General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTn1ITH ARMY CORPS, October 27, 18641.49 p. ii. Lieutenant-Colonel SmTH Aaeietat A4lntant4ieserah Department of V~ and R~ 0.: I have reached their outer line of breast-works on the Williamsburg road. General Marston reports Fields troops entered over it; they have some artillery. I have directed him to feel them and see if he can get in. In case he dont, shall I continue my march northward, and, if so, what shall I do if the enemy gets my communicationsi Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major-GeneraL HEADQUARTERS EIGHTNTH ARn CORPS, October 27, 18641 p. a. Lieut. CoL E. W. SmTH, Aee(etant A4jvtsnt-Gener4 Department of Va. and L 0.: I have the honor toreport to the general commanding, that, believ- ing the enemy very weak on my front, I assaulted with two brigades; the onset was repulsed. I have sent Col6nel Holman to make the demonstration on the York River Railroad. If he fails to find the ene- mys left what shall I dot, obedient servant, 617 respectfully, G. WEITZBL, Brent Majorfieneral. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTERNTH Ann CORPS, October 27,1864-4.45 p. a. Lieut CoL E. W. SmTH, Mefrtmnt A4jvttint4*ener4 Department of Va. and L 0.: Colonel Holman reports that he finds th6 eneifty with intrenchments on the York River road. 0. WEITZEL, Brevet Major-General Page 399 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 399 hEADQUARTERS EICHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Whites Tavern, October 27, 18619.15 p. m. Liente1~ant-ColoneI SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, 1) epartrnent of Va. and N~ (1.: Marstons division is here; I expect the colored brigade sometime in the night, bat hlckinan, I fear, will not be able to get in until after dawn, and may have trouble. This march, in this very dark night and through such a country and over such roads, has had an awful effi~ct on the organization of my troops. The events of to-day may be briefly summed up, that we marched to the Williamsburg road, according to instructions, about two hours later than I expected to get there. Believing the enemys line there to be manned by dismounted cavalry, I considered it my duty to make an attack. I did this with two bri- gades, which certainly would have been sufficient had my supposition been correct; but they were met by a very heavy fire, and only about a third of each brigade returned. In the meantime, by your direction, I sent Hohuan to find the enemys left, if possible, by the York River Railroad. He thought he found it, attacked and carried the enemys works. He was wounded; so was Kiddoomortally, it is feared. Before this success was reported to me I had ordered him back, but it was so late in the day that this success would have been of no value. My troops have had a hard time of it, and will be very mr~ch worn out to-morrow morning. I think that 1,000 will cover the total loss in killed, wounded, and missing. I think I made a demonstration, how- ever, as lively as possible under the circumstances. If it had been possible to have avoided two hours delay on the march, I think I would have gotten around the enemys left. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Brevet lJThjor- General. P. 5.I will not be able to put Marston into position until morning; it is too dark. Yery respectfully, G. WEITZEL. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Whites Tacern, Va., October 27, 18649.15 p. m. Lieutenant-Colonel CHAMBERLAIN, Commanding, dee.: Report to tue at this point, when you reach here, for orders. Very respectfully, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Whites Tavern, Va., October 27, 18649.15 p. m. Brigadier-General HECKMAN, Commanding Second Di?ision, Eighteenth Army Corps I fear that you will have great difficulty in bringing in the trains and artillery to-night. Try your best to do it, if possible, by building fires, & c., along the road; if not possible, bivouac in a good defensible pos Page 400 400 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tion. Start in at early dawn iii the morning, just as soon as you can see, recolleCtilig that your comniunication with this positiou is much exposed. 1 liave ordered Colonel Spear to report to you with hi~ cav- alry. Very respectfully, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIOJITEENTH ARMY CORPS, Whites Tavern, October 27, 18619.15 p. m. Colonel SPEAR, Commanding AS1eeond Brigade Cavalry: Report to General Heckmau for orders on your move to this point, as lie will be delayed-a long time, it may be until early dawn, by the darkness and the difficulty of moving wagons. Very respectfully, U. WEJTZEL. - BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 27, 1864. General GRAHAM: What is the firing which we heau~? ED. W. SMITh, Assistant Adjutant- General. Lieut. Col. E. W. SMITH: The firing is in front of the Second Corps and toward Petersburg. CHARLES K. GRAHAM. DARBYTOWN, .Oetober 27, 186412.42 p. m. Brigadier-General GRAHAM: Dispatch received. Feel out and find what the enemy are about. It is important to know. A reconnaissance in force will determine. Be careful. All well here. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR NEW MARKET ROAD, October 27, 18646.15 p. m. Brigadier-General GRMIAM, Commanding Bermuda Lines At 12.42 to-day 1 sent you a telegram in answer to one sent me by you that the enemy appeared to be leaving your front to make a recon- 1iaissance in force, and see you have neither acknowledged the dispatch or told me what you have done or learned. Please answer. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General Page 401 CHAr. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNICN. 401 HATCHERS FARIXI, October 27, 18647.30 p. m. Major-General BUTLER, Commanding Army of the James: Oti receiving your telegram, accompanied by Colonel Potter, I made a reconnaissance from Battery Marshall to the right of the picketline. At the same time one of my staff officers made a reconnaissance to the Appomattox River. The relief picket was theii thrown out by the road leading to Battery Drake, supported by the Twelfth New Jlainp- shire. It was nearly dark when this movement was made and Colonel Potter has not yet returned. The rebel picket-line appears to have been weakeiied. The pickets are not at all communicative, and our men report that there have been several trains to-day more thau usual, the trains down empty and those up full. CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Briqadier- General. HATCHERS FARM, October 27, 18648 p. m. Major-General BUTLER: The teleg~~am sent me at noon did not reach me until between 3 and 4 oclock. At once I attended to its spirit, but night overtook me before a satisfactory result could be obtained. I returned at 7.30. Colonel Potter has not yet returned. CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 27, 1864. (Received 10.30 p. in.) Brigadier-General GRAHAM, Old Headqnarters Eighteenth Army Corps: Has there been any action or firing on your line to-night ~ R. S. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HATCHERS FARM, October 27, 1864. Maj. P. 5. DAVIS, Assistant A djntant- General: There has beeii no firing on this front but vei front occupied by the Second Corps. y heavy firing on the CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 28, 18649 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The enemy attacked our left (Hancock) last evening with, great vigor. I caniiot give the results yet, though the fight was sanguinary on both sides and resulted iu a considerable number of captures. Gen- eral Hancock thinks he captured more prisoners than he lost. I will try to give you full particulars during the day. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. 26 R RYOL XLII, PT II Page 402 402 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CITY POINT, VA., October 28, 18G4. (Received 6.20 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON & ~retary of War, Washington, D. C.: The attack on General Hancock, now that a report is received, proves to be a decided success. He repulsed the enemy and remained in his position, holding possession of the field until midnight, when he commenced withdrawing. Orders had been given for the withdrawal of the Second Corps before the attack was made. We lost no prisoners, except the usual stragglers who are always picked np. Our captures for the day on the sonth side foot np 910. rfhe rebel General bearing is reported killed. General Meade in his report says: I am induced to believe the success of the operation, which was Piost decided, was mainly due to the personal exertions of Major-General Hancock and the conspicuous gallantry of Brigadicr.General Egan. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 1864. (Received 4.30 a. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: The following dispatch, received during the night, is forwarded for your information. General Miles has been directed to send the pris. oners mentioned to City Point. GEO. G. MEADE, ]LIajor- General. [Inclosure.) HEADQUARTERS, Arery House, October 28, 1864. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: I sent 100 men to the right of the Crater. - They took a small work, with one gun in it, but before they conld be supported they were driven out again by a superior force. Every effort was made to sup- port them promptly, but a regiment of the enemys infantry was in a work on their left and attacked immediately. The following-named persons were taken: Col. Randolph Harrison, Lieut. Col. Peyton Wise, and Second Lieutenant Cox, of Forty-sixth Virginia, and Lieutenant Ryland, Thirty-fourth Virginia; eight men of Thirty-fourth Virginia, one of Forty-sixth Virginia, and four of Twenty-sixth South Carolina; all of B. R. Johnsons division, ii. H. Andersons corps. My loss was light. Enemys cheyaux.de-frise had to be cut before it could be crossed. N. A. MILES, Brigadier- General. CITY POINT, October 28, 1864. Major-General MEADE: From your dispatch of last night it seems the enemy crossed Hatch- ers Run below Hancocks position. Where was Crawford during this time~ If he had followed your repeated instructions to Warreir this could not have happened. Even after Hancock was attacked Craw- ford must have been in a position where, by boldly pushing up, li Page 403 CHAP. LJV.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC,UNION. 403 could have annihilated all of the enemy south of the run. There may be an explanation for all this, or I may misunderstand what did occur. Before telegraphing to Washington the particulars of yesterdays operations I would like a partial report. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Ucueral. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October ~& 8, 186411 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Your dispatch in relation to General Crawfords movements is re- ceived. The inquiry you make is quite natural, but Ijudge, from all I can learn, the difficulty of Crawford reaching the scene of action in time was twofoldfirst, the character of the country represellte(l as worse than the Wilderness, and, secondly, the fact that Crawford was at that time engaged with the enemy, and trying to get across the run to take the line confronting Griffin in reverse. The distance between Hancock and Crawford was also owing to a bend in the stream greater than was at first supposed, no connection between the two having been made, as was erroneously reported. You may, perhaps, remember hear- ing just before we left Hancock sonic sharp and continued musketry fir- ing; this was Crawford. Again, when I spoke of the enemys crossino the run on Hancocks right I referred to their coming through that piece of woods which, if you remember, we stopped on the edge of for a little while before we left. Indeed, I am now satisfied if we had continued on the road we started on much longer we should have struck the enemy. When I first heard of the attack on Hancock, General Warren had just returned from CrawTford, and so well satisfied were we both that Crawford could not get to him in time that I immediately started Ayres to move up the road from Armstrongs Mill, but it was then so late that it was dark by the time Ayre~ had crossed the run at Armstrongs, and I accordingly halted him to hear from Hancock. I am of ri a opin- ion that Crawfords position and movements were of essential value to hancock by keeping in check ~ considerable force of the enemay who would otherwise have not only joined in the attack but cut off the road communicating with him. This explanation will, I trust, relieve your mind of any impression unfavorable to General Crawford, who, I really believe, was (lisposed to do all iu his power. There is no doubt now it would have been better if Crawford had been sent at once to Hmncock by the roadwe took, hut in ignorance of the distance either that Han- cock would have to ~o or had gone in sending Crawford to hancocks support, 1 directed he should move up the bank of the stream, with the hope that in co-operation with Griffimi we might dislodge the enemy from the line of works he occupied resting on the run. The character of the country caused delay in Crawfords progress amid his subsequently striking the enemy, for he found him on time right bank of the stream and had to drive his skirmishers across. When he had done so he found the passage of the stream obstructed by felled timber and the enemy posted omi the other side; he then made efforts to find a practicable place for assaulting, amid was emmgaged in this and commnectimig with Griffin on the other side below the enemy~s line when Hancock was attacked. The special report required will be made at once; do you wish it in writing or by telegraph ~ GEO. G. MEADE, Jifajor- aeneral Page 404 404 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. CITY POINT, October 28, 1864. Major-General MEADE: All I want is about the general result of the operations of yesterday by telegraph, so that I can send a dispatch to Washington. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenan t- Gen era 1. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOxIAc, October 28, 186411 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Hancocks command and Crawfords division had recrossed Hatchers Run by 7 a. in. I have directed Major-Generals Warren and Parke to remain in position sufficiently long to send all impediments to the rear and collect stragglers, and then to withdraw leisurely to their former positions in our intrenched lines. I find my dispatch of yesterday evening requires some modification. Major-General Hancock did not substantially yield any groumi; he liel(i the Boydtou plank road till midnight. He is also unaware of the loss of any prisoners, except the usual stragglers scattered in the woods whom it was impossible to col- led. He w~s compelled for want of transportation to leave a number of his most severely wounded. Thcse were carefully collected and placed in the houses on the field an(l surgeons with supplies left with them. The whole number of prisoners reported to the provost-marshal- general up to this time is 689; these are exclusive of 200 turned over by the Second Corps to the cavalry not yet brought in, and 21 sent to City Point by Brigadier-General Miles. Prisoners rejiort the death of Major-General Dearimig. I am induced to believe the success o~ the operation, which was luost decided, was mainly due to the personal exertions of Major-General Hancock and the conspicuous gallantry of Brigadier-General Egan. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel BOWERS: In accordance with the orders of the lieutenant-general commanding, such portions of this rmy not required to hold. the intreuched lines moved yesterday morning before daylight with the intention of extend- ing these lines, if practicable, to the South Side Railroad. The forces moved in three columns, the Ninth Corps on the road to Hawks, the Second Corps down the Vaughan road to Hatchers Run, and the Fifth Corps on a line intermediate l)etween the ot~her two, parts of which had to be opened. Major-General Parke was instructed to move on the presumed position of the enemys works, and if practicable to carry them. In case of his inability to do this (and he was directed not to attack if the works were found strong and well manned) he was to threaten and confront the enemy, and Major-General Warren, who was to support Parke in the first operation, was instructed in case Parke did not attack, to cross 1-latchers Run and endeavor to get possession of the bridge by whirh the Boydton I)lank road crosses that stream. Major-General Hancock, with harts of the Second Corps aiA Greggs division of cavalry, was ordered to cross Hatchers Run by the Vaugha Page 405 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 405 road, then to turn to the southward and endeavor to seize the bridge where the Claiborne road crosses it. This project was based upon information which lcd to the belief that the enemys line only extended to the crossing of Hatchers Hun by the Boydton plank road, and that it was not completed this far and was weakly manned. The move- ment was promptly ma(le as directed, but, instead of finding the enemys line as expected, it was found to extenh over the run nearly to Arm- strongs Mill, was fully comDleted, and very strongly fortified by slash- ings and abatis. The consequence was that Major-General Parke, after driving in the enemys skirmishers, did not attempt to attack, but Major-General Warren, on developing the enemys position, made an unsuccessful effort, with Gregorys brigade of Griffins division, to pene- trate the line. Finding this condition of affairs, and Hancock having effected the passage of the run and moved as ordered I directed Major-General Warren to cross Crawfords division at Armstrongs Mill, with instruc- t~ons to support Hancock, but instead of following the Second CorpM, I directed Crawford should move up the right bank of the run and endeavor to recross and ssault the eiiemys line in rear, while Griffin assaulted in front. This, it was hoped, would em ble Warren to cross near Boydton plank road and secure the connection between the Second and Ninth- Corps. About this time, 11.30 a. in., in company with the lieutenant-general commanding, I proceeded to join Major-General Hancocks column, crossing the run at Armstrongs Mill. Major-General hancock was overtaken at Burgess Tavern on the Boydton plank road, some four miles from Armstrongs Mill. He had driven the enemys cavalry from the run and up to the Boydton plank road bridge, captur- ing some prisoners, wagons, cattle, and tents. The enemy, however, disputed his passage of the bridge and had opened batteries on him from the opposite side, besides threatening his left flank with artillery. It was very evident soon aft~r joining Hancock, that unless the enemy was driven from the left bank of the run, wjuiere the Boydton road crossed, that our lines could not be advanced sufficiently to make a connection with the present intrenched line. Major-General Han- cock was accordingly authorized to make the attempt to carry the bridge, was advised of Crawfords movement and the object of it, and informed by the lieutenant-general commanding that if these operations were not successfully executed during the day he would be withdrawn on the following day. Having given these ordeis, in company with the lieutenant-general commanding, I proceeded to Armstrongs Mill, from which point the lieutenant-general returned to City Point. Soomi after my return Major-General Warren reported that General Crawford, after great exertions, owing to the dense thicket he had to operate in, had moved up the right bank of the run, past the terminus of the enemys line, had driven across the run the enemys skirmishers, and was endeavoring to find a practicable place to cross and assault, but found the run in rear of the enemys line fortified by the felling of timber, the opposite bank being held in force. Griffin, after feeling and examining the whole line in his front, found it so strong as to preclude the expectation of carrying it by assault. About this time, 5 p. in., whilst Major-General Hancock was just about to attempt carrying the bridge in his front, the enemy detached from the woods to his right and i-ear and attacked him vigorously, at the same time advancing on his left and attacking Gregg in the rear. Not- withstauding.the several attacks an(l the necessary change of front of several commands, Major-General Hancock repulsed all the enemy Page 406 406 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. ANI) N. C. LCHAP. Liv. efforts, inflicting on him severe losses and firmly maintaining his ground till dark, eapturing over 700 prisoners and several colors, aiid suffering no losses beyond killed and wounded, of whom he had quite a number. The fight was in an open field, and is represented to have been for the time very sharp and severe, the enemy being baffled by Major-General Hancock in all his attempts to flank or turn his position. This decided success is due to the personal exertions of General Hancock and in a great measure to the conspicuons gallantry of Brigadier-General Egan, temporarly comnn7landing a di -ision in the Second Corps. The lateness of the hour at which this attack was made and at which the informa- tion reached me, prevented General Crawford being sent to re-enforce General Hancock; indeed, the distance and difficulties of moving through the dense thicket, together with the, fact that Crawford was engaged with the enemy, induced me to put Ayres division in motion, but it was d rk before he could be crosse(l over the run at Armstrongs Mill. The position of the enemy being seen, holding, as it were, a ridge formed by his intrenched line in front of the run and the run in rear, and forcing a separation of my flanks of over six miles when lie had only two miles to move, deterred me from keeping Hancock in position an(i re-enforcing him with another corps, as it would leave only one corp~ to n~c~t the attack of the enemy if he should choose to move over. I tiierdic directed the withdrawal of Hancock and Crawford, who both recrossed the run by 7 a. m. to-day. About 12 in., having with- drawn all the inmpediinents of the army, the sevetal corps were, in ac- cordance with the lieutenant-generals orders, withdrawn and are now moving into their former positions in the intrenched lines. In addition to the 700 prisoners takemi by the Second Corps, there were nearly 200 taken by Crawford. No prisoners are reported as lost by us, except the stragglers, whom it is ~dways difficult to collect when withdrawin~ No return of the casualties has yet been made. In the Second Corps the losses, owing to the severe fighting, are believed to be heavy. I regret to report that, owing to the want of transportation and the char- acter of the cases, some of the most severely wounded were left in charge of surgeons in some houses on the field. Respectfully, yours, GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. YELLOW TAvERN, October 28, 186411.20 a. m. General HUMPUREYS: There are at this point 530 prisoners of war, sent in from Second Corps, fully representing Mahones, Cookes, and MacRaes brigades. There are about twenty cavalry from Youngs, l)earings, iDunovants, and Davis brigades. These all were taken by the Second Corps. There are also at this point 148 prisoners of war, sent in by the Fifth Army Corps, taken last night; all from Mahones old brigade, save a very few stragglers from Cookes brigade. No prisoners taken from any other brigade than the above. There are at general headquarters eleven prisoners of war and four deserters, all from Cookes and Ma- hones (old) brigades. Total number of prisoners of war, 689. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK Page 407 CHAP. Liv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 407 JERU5ALEI\I PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 18647 a. m. Maj. 13. F. FIsHER: Tents appear at all points on enemys lines where they were seen last evening, but in less numbers. Squads of infantry moving left from our immediate front show that they had been brought there froni other points of their lines farther to our left, where we were threatening their lines in our immediate front. They show but small force in works. All quiet. A. K. C[AROTIIERS}. OCTOBER 28, 1864. Maj. B. F. FIsHER, Chief Signal 9~icer, Army of the Potomac: About 7 oclock a regiment of infantry moved in sight from the east into the clearing west of station, halted a short time, and passed on out of view. They were behind the first line of works. Eight oclock, a skirmish line has moved back behind the first line of works, while a heavy column, about 1,500, has moved in the same direction east, back of the rear line of works. Just now a column of about the same size has moved back to the west again. Sergeant. NEAR 0-InnoNs HousE, October 28, 18649 a. m. Major FISHER: There is nothing new in front of this station this a. in. No change is seen in any of the enemys works. B. W. MARCY, In Charge. CHUIRCIL ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 18649.10 a. m. Maj. 113. F. FIsHER, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: A column of enemys infantry just passed fort about west from this station, moviiig west on Boydton plank road. Column marched well closed and was fourteen minutes in passing a point. SLEEPER, Sergeant. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 2R, 18649.20 a. mm. Maj. 13. F. FISHER: About 250 infantry have just moved up in line in works west from station, coming from points farther to the left. About 100 men are in line near lead-works; also a regimeiit in line in works half a mile south of lead-works, apparently about to move. A. K. C[AROTIIERS} Page 408 408 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 1861lO a. ~m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: Infantry, 100, reported in line near lea(l-works were Joined by about 200 additionaL infantry from points to the right of lead-works, all moving to the right as far as works northwest fuoin station, where they have halted and stacked arms. Regiment reported in line half a mile south of lead-works has disappeared in woods west of railroad, ~Qving northwest; numbered 350. A. K. C[AROTIIERS], Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 1864. Major-General HuiwPui~EYS, Chief of Stafr A column of infantry moved westwar(l at 10.40 a. in. They were thirteen minutes in passing the fort near the Boisseau property. SLEEPER, Sergeant.] OCTOBER 28, 1864. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac: At 11 oclock a small body of troops, about 500, passed to our right. They were seen moving behind the first line of breast-works in clear- ing, to left of station. In same clearing artillery horses are harnessed to a caisson. INGERSOX, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28 18 Major-G-eneral IIUMPHREYS, 6412.40 ~ in. Chief of Staff: A column of infantry is going HI) the Boydton plank road. They were fifteen minutes in passing the fort near the tohl-o going toward Petersburg. ~.ate. They were [SLEEPER, ASergeant.] JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 186412.40 p. m. Maj. B. F. FISHER: A column of infantry, numbering about 2,000, has come in on road running west from large fort and is halted iii woods to the right of fort. Another column has just appeared, coining in on sanme road. CAROTHERS, Sergeant Page 409 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC,UNION. 409 JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 1864i p. m. Maj. B. F. FlSHER: Column nu mbering 2,000, reported halted in works to the right of large fort and otli~r column reporte(l as appearing on same road, iii all about 3,500, are moving to our right in direction of Petersburg and are now passing lead-works. A. K. C[AROTHERS]. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 28, 18642.30 p. in. lVJaj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Ofilcer, Army of the Potomac: A column of enemys inhintry just passed open space north-north- west from this station, moving in direction of Petersburg, on Boydton plank road. The column was followed by four wagons. SLEEPER, Sergeant. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 28, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: In addition to the movements already reported, at 3 p. m. a column of about 1,800 infantry came toward Petersburg on the Boydton plank road and halted in the woods west of the Weldon rail- road, and remained there until, night. At 3.30 p. m. 6~J0 more came on the same road and moved on toward Petersburg, disappearing behind the woods near the lead-works. At 5.30 about 1,000 came up the Boyd- ton plank road and disappeared in the vicinity of the fort near the Weldon railroad. At 4 p. m. about 1,000 men went into the intrench- ments east of Butterworths house. A strict watch was kept upon the roads leading into the city from the west and no troops were seen en- tering it, so I would conclude all the troops that came up the Boydton plank road went into the works in our front. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 113. City Poi~nt, Va., October 28, 1864. * * * * * * * II. Paragraphs 1 and 2 of special Orders, No. 112,* from these head- quarters are hereby revoked. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. * See p. 357 Page 410 410 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. LOHAP. Liv. HDQRS. ENGINEER BlUG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, October 28, 1864. Lient. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant-General: 1 have the honor to report that the One hundred and eighty-ninth New York Volunteers reported to these headquarters last evening, Col. W. W. Hayt, commanding; nine companies, about 800 men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CllA~NING CLAPP, Assistant Adjutant- General. ftDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT October 28, 1864. Lient. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Armies of the United States: I have the honor to report that the First Rhode Island Battery,* Capt. Crawford Allen, Jr., with about 120 men and six 3-inch rifled 1)ieces, re- ported to these headquarters. They are from the Twenty- second Army Corps. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHANNING CLAPP, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS 205TH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, Old Court-House, Va., October 28, 1864. Capt. C. CLAPP, Asst. Adjt. Gen., General Benliams Brigade, City Point, Va.: CAPTAIN: I regret to inform you of the loss of three of Lieutenant Caprons cavalry by capture ou our picket-line last night. One of the number made his escape and is now with his command at City Point. My field officer of the day will report more fully to-morrow. Major Tucker, commanding cavalry depot, has sent to me altogether 330 dis- mounted cavalry and 58 mounted, who are now encamped temporarily in rear of our lines. What disposition does the general wish me to make of these men ~ Lieutenant Barre, who reports these men to me from Major Tucker, is of opinion that they are to remain here for aimy emergency that may arise. The work of revetmnent along our line is progressing rapidly, but I am entirely out of timber for this purpose.. Can I have ten teams early in the morning l I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, yonr obedient servamit, J. A. MATHEWS, Colonel 205th Pennsylvania Volunteers, 67ommanding Post. HDQRS. ENGINEER BRIG. AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT, October 28, 1864evening. Col. J. A. MATHEWS, Commar~diny Post: In reply to your communication of this date the general commanding directs me to say that the cavalrymen were sent to you by his order, and, as you suppose, they will be held in readiness for any emergency, encamping in the woods in yonr rear. There are to be some rifle-pits Battery H, First Rhode Island Page 411 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 411 thrown up to-morrow in front of the large redoubt wkieh some of these men, who are armed with sixteen-shooter carbines, will hold. The ten teams will be ordered to report to you early in the morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CIIANNING- CLAPP, Assistant Adjutant- (i~enerai. HDQRS. F~NGINEER Bmw-. i~i~i l)EFENSEs OF CITY POINT October 28, 1864. Col. J. A. MATHEWS, Commanding at Old Court-House: The general commanding directs me to say that lie learns, that there is a cavalry picket of some 150 men on the other side of Baileys Creek. He deems them uuneces~ary where they are, and if you agree with him he wishes you would send word to Major Tucker, commanding cavalry depot, Second Division, to withdraw them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHANNING CLAPP, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. The following dispositions of trool)s is ordered: 1. Brigadier-General Egan. commanding Second l)ivision, will place one of his brigades in the ravine behind the line between Forts Sted- man and MeGilvery, one behind Fort Morton, and one in rear of the Avery house. 2. Major-General Mott, comman .ing Third Division, will place one brigade near the Chieves house as a snpport to the line near the plank road, and one in rear of Fort Hays. From the remaining brigade lie will furnish garrisons for Forts Bross, Patrick Kelly, Blaisdell, and Stevenson. The chief of artillery will place a section in each of Forts Bross, Kelly, and BI.aisdell, and four guns in Fort Stevenson. The camps of reserve brigades must in all cases be entirely screened from the view of the enemy, that they may hereafter be broken up without discovery. Brigadier-General Miles will afford such assistance to Gen- eral Egan as may be necessary in locating the brigades of the Second Division. This order to go into effect to-morrow ni~ht. Preliminary arrangements can be made during the day to-morrow. By order of Major-General Hancock: C. II. MOI~GAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 1864. Gen. W. S. HANCOCK, Commanding Second Corps: The trains, excepting sup~)ly train and the ambulances, artillery horses, caissons, & c., ordered within the defenses of City Point before the recent movement, have been directed to return to the positions from which they were sent to the rear. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. (same to Generals Warren and Parke. Page 412 412 oPmTIoNs IN SE. VA. AND N. (3. [Ow. Ut General s. juan: Anns Horn, Ootober 28,1864. Besides the prisoners reported last night I captured eight men of Johnsons division from their picket-line opposite Fort Sedgwlck. An officer (lieutenant) deserted from Forty-sixth Virginiab He reports Major-General Dearing killed yesterday. I have @ent all the pris- oners, twenty-one, to City Point. N. A. MILES, Brigwlier-GeseraL. Gnnaa ORDERS, No. } HDQES. 4TH BRiG., 1ST Div., 2D A. C., October 28,1864. The colonel commanding tIle brigade takes pleasure in congratulating the One hundred and forty-eighth Pennsylvania Vol for the gallantry displayed in the assault and capture of the enejnys fort on the evening of October 27, 1864. Capt Jerry Brown, Lieutenants Sprankle,Gibb and Benner, deserve sppcial mention for their bravery and skill in leaking the charqe. He deeply regrets theloss of Capt H. D. Price One hundred and sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, acting assistani adjutant-general, Fourth Brigade, who fell nobly sustaining the proud name he had won by his valor in the field, and sympat~ses with the brave men who were wounded. By order of Colonel Mulbolland: Lieutenant anti 3. WENDEL MUFFLY~ Acting leettat A4jutant-GeneraL HEADQUARTERS Sucon Ann Cozps, Brevet Ms~jor-General MoTT2 *8,1864. Commanding flirti Dwieion: Gmv.AL: The commanding general directs that you immediately forward a regiment, not be than. 140 in strenqth, to quard the sub- sistence depot at Cedar Level Station. The regmentwill remain there permanently, or until relieved in orders from the headquarters. Please have an officer directed to see to the locating of the regiment at the above station, and report the regiment and it. strength so the headquarters. I am, general, very respectlbfly, your obedient servant, . SEPT. CAlINCROsS, Major and Aeeietant A4jutont4)eneraL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OP TER PoToMAC, Major-General WAERn October 28, 18647.15 a. m. Commanding nhk Co~pe: - The commanding general wishes you to send Apes division as soon as you can to fill up the vacant space between Parkss right and the fort at the Olements house. A. A. HUMPEBEYS Jfajor4eml and OM~f of ktai Page 413 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 413 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Peebles House, October 28, 186411.30 a.rn. Major-General WARREN Commanding Fifth 6~rps: It is reported by signal officer that the enemy are moving toward our right past the Pegram house front. The commanding general thinks you had better commence the movement of return at once to the in- trenchments, if you have not already done so, and less leisurely than the commanding general originally intended. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 186410 a. m. General EGAN: You can begin to withdraw toward the Vaughan road at once. Send word to General Mott to commence to withdraw also along the Vaughan road to our old lines. Major Walshs cavalry will cover your with- drawal on the Vaughan road, and you are to follow General Mott. You will also meet a brigade of General Greggs cavalry coming down to cover the withdrawal. Respectfully, yours, & c., G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 186410.30 a. m. General PARKE: I am ready now to withdraw General Griffins division as soon as you are ready to withdraw General Willeoxs. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. October 28, 1864850 a. rn. General AYRES: Yoa will receive yonr orders from General Parke, moving to his assistance at any point he may require and be withdrawn by him. A. A. H[UMPIIREYS], Major- General and Chief of StofT. HEADQUARTERS TH1RD DIVISION, FIFTH CORPS, October 28, 18645.30 a. in. [Major-General WARREN:] GENERAL: I am across with my whole command, and am about destroying my bridge. I have 112 prisonerstwo officerswith me. I am in two lines on Griffins left, with one brigade massed on the center. Very respectfully, S. W. CRAWFORD, Brigadier- General Page 414 414 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Armstrongs House, October 28, 18647 a. m. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-genexal commanding (meets that as soon as you have breakfasted you send all your headquarters vehicles, pack- mules, & c., back to your old camp. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FliED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THiRD I)IvISIoN, FIFTh CORPS, October 28, 18647.20 a. m. F Major-General WARREN:] GENERAL: The Seventh Wiscousiu has come iii. It was the last of my picket-line. It brings eighty-Ps-o prisoners, one ai~ officer also four horses. ery respectftilly, S. W. CliAWFORD, Brigadier- Geiteral. HEADQUARTERS FIFTII ARMY CORPS October 28, 186 ii0 a. m. General CRAWFORD: You will at once be~in to withdraw your division, moving left in front, and keeping well closed up. You will mass your division near Fort Cummings (the place where we cross Parkes line). As soon as you begin to move commence to withdraw your picketline, beginning on the left and closing it in to the right. Let Colonel Osborn report to me when it is all gone. I shall be at the cross-roads, where w ego into the cut we made through the woods. Respectfully, G. K. W RREN. Major-General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 186410 a. m. Major WALSH: Withdraw your cavalry after General Egan gets clear of the road. He is going to move from General Meades headquarters over to the Vaughan road, and follow General Motts division. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, M~jor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 18616.30 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Comps: Let your l)rOvoSt guard keep Hancocks mcii. If they have arms and are numerous enough to be of any use put them with your men, Hancock knocked the enemy. He has recrossed Ilatchers Run and is on the Vaughan road. Gregg has recrossed. A. A. IIUMPIIREYS, Major- General and Chwf of staff Page 415 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 415 J{EADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 18646.45 a. m. Major-General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: The ulajor-gelleral commanding directs that you be prepared to with- draw during the morning to the intrenclirnents, and that you clear the road at ouce of all wheels. You will be notified from these headquar- ters, or by General Warren, when to withdraw, as you will withdraw simultaneously with Warren. Should you not want your artillery it can l)recede you, but do not send it off until you have reported to these headqnarters whether you do or do not want it and receive an intima- tion to withdraw it from here. A. A. IIUMPIThEYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 18647.15 a. m. Major.General PARKE, Commanding Ninth Corps: General Warreu will send Ayres division to fill up vacant space on your right to the front at Clements house. Will you see that all the roads leading to intrenchment are cleared of wheels, that which War- ren used and the intermediate road betweeu that and you. A. A. II[UI\IPHREYS]. The battery at Watkins house may take the lead when you with- draw. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 18647.25 a. m. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have received yours of 6.45 a. in. I have two batteries up, one with Potter at Hawks one in rear of Ferrero at Watkins house. The latter, I think, had better be done before any movement begins. I will start all the wheels to the rear. Yours, & c., JNO. G. PA1~KE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brig. Gen. D. MoM. GREc~G, October 28, 1864. Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: I am instructed by the commanding general to say that the commanding officer of the detachment of armed dismounted men you may have at your dismounted camp near City Point must be ordered to report to Brigadier-General Benham, commanding defenses at City Point, and that these men must, if necessary, take their places in the trenches. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Copy to General Benhaim Page 416 416 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [ChAr. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Armstrongs Mill, October 28, 18645.50 a. m. General GREGG, Cornmnandinq Cavalry: The commauding general directs that you look out for our rear on the Vaughan and other roads below Armstrongs Mill. General Parke arid General Warren are still in position they were in yesterday, from Armstrongs Mill and vicinity toward our line of intrencliments. You ~vill not move in until further orders. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Major- Genercd and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 28, 18642 p. m. Brigadier-General GREGG: Warrens and Parkes troops are within the line of intrenchments. You can now fall back and take up your old, position, picketing and patrolling as before. A. A. H[UMPHIREYS], Major- General and Chief of StaO~. WASHiNGTON, D. (5., October 28, 1864. (Iteceived 10.10 a in.) Major-General BUTLER: The surgeon-general complains that his two hospital transports, the Atlantic and Baltic, have been seized by your order. This proceeding is irregular, and you will please abstain from giving such orders. if there be a necessity for your having the transports, application should be made to the proper bureau, so that adeqnate provision may be made. This can be doime in as brief time as an irregular seizure without authority. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES, October 28, 1864. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I am aware that I sometimes do things irregularly when time exigency requires it, but in the matter of the Atlantic and Baltic I plead not guilty in intention. I made application through General Grant sonic time since for those boats, because competent sea-boats, to take the sick prisoners along the coast from Savannah. I understood I was to have theni when we were ready to go down, and put them in my list in making up the necessary transportation. 1 kIlewT they were hospital boats, and certainly should never have used them save for hospital purpose, such as this is, to wit, carry sick soldiers, save in case of attack or other emergency. I had not intended to do, and did imot sup- pose I had done, anything irregular in this matter. Shall I discimarg Page 417 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 417 the boats? They are the best adapted to that service in point of safety. I have others that can with safety run to New York. I have none that can be relied on in November on the coast in all weather. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C.. October 28, 186411.10 a. m. Major-General BUTLER, Headquarters: Your list of brevets recommended by you reached me this morning. I have ordered them to be made immediately and transmitted to you. General Wild has been relieved from recruiting service and ordered to report to yon. The recruiting office at New Berne has also been dis- continued and the officer ordered to report to you. EDWIN N. STANTON, Secretary of War. CITY POINT, YA., October 28, 1864. Major-Geiieral BUtULER: You may withdraw your troops to their former position. The same thIng is being done on the left. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. ATLEES FARM, Near Darby Road, October 28, 18619.15 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Dispatch directing withdrawal of troops received. Orders have been issued. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Maior- General. WASHINGTON, October 28, 18642.05 p. m. Colonel WEBSTER, Quartermaster: I am instructed by the Secretary of War to inquire into the seizure of the hospital traiisports Atlantic and Baltic from their appropriate duties. These vessels have been assigned to duty as transports for sick and wounded under the direction of the surgeon-general, and. should not be withdrawn from this service without his consent or orders from this office. You will immediately restore them to the med.- ical officers, if withdrawn from their control, and report all the facts to this office. By order of the Secretary of War: N. C. MEIGS, Quartermasler- General. (Forwarded to General Butler.) 27 R RYOL XLIl~ PT II Page 418 418 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND ~. C. [CHAP~. LIV. OCTOBER 28, 1864. Colonel WEBSTER, Chief Quartermaster: IRelease the boats, of course, as ordered, and report the facts as fol- lows: The boats were taken as the oniy safe boats in the service fit to convey sick and wounded soldiers of the ITnited States who have beeii languishing in prisons for many mouths. They are the only boats it for that purpose as hospital boats on the coast in the Noyember storms. The soldiers of the United States. sick and wounded in the comfortable hospitals of Fortress Monroe, General Butler thought, could wait there before they were transported to New York and the surgeons in charge go with ~them] to that city on a pleasure trip bet- ter than could our soldiers, sick, emaciated, and wounded, stay in a filthy Southern prison, and die for want of this transportation, which is not, in fact, employed more than half of the time. If our prisoners die in foreign prisons for want of this transportation their friends and coun- trymen must hold the Surgeon-General responsible, and not General Butler, for the inhumanity. There are plenty of boats that can run to New York with safety in these winds. Report these facts and all others you may know, an(l the whole matter will be judged of by the Depart- mnent. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. OCTOBER 28, 1864. Capt. II. IR. CLUM, Chief Signal Officer, Butlers Headquarters: Five passenger cars with passengers toward iRichinondregular trainlast night; also a train toward Petersburg; contents unknown; extra train. J. VAN VLECK, Lieu tenant, & c. FORT BRADY, VA., October 28,1864. Col. II. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy have not troubled the canal much to-day, firing at the utmost but ten or fifteen shots. Think the 4.5-inch gun perplexes them. They became so in- censed this afternoon that they opened on me from the heavy guns at Coxs Ferry. A few well-directed shell from the 100-pounder, No. 15, soon brought them to their senses, however. Deemed it prudent to move the three 30-pounder Parrotts about half a mile to the rear last night. Parked them just in the edge of the woods. Have a guard of six men over them, also a guard at the magazine. Trust you will per- mit me to exchange the 4.5-inch for them; the 30-pounder ammunition is so much surer. Very respectfully, your obedient seivant, H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First 6ounecticut Artillerq Page 419 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIoN. 419 HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: The One hundred and sixteenth U. S. Colored Troops are the only troops which have yet reported to me; they nuinber ~300 men. The Two hundred and sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, numbering 500 men, is, I believe, on the way up. No men have yet come up to garrison the redoubt beyond Four-Mile Church. Should men for this garrison arrive, I shall take out nearly 8,000 infantry even if I have no other re-enforce- ments. ALP. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 18646.15 a. m. Lieutenant SHREVE,~ Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: There has been no change in the extent of my line since yesterday. No troopsof the Eighteenth Corps have come to relieve us and to ena- ble us to shorten our line. About an hour after dark it was reported by an officer from that corps that the division was about five miles from the Charles City road, and at that time had not started. That is the last word we have of the troops who were to relieve the right of our line. Very respectfully, A. AMES, Brigadier- General. [Indorsement.] Respectfully forwarded for the information of the major-general com- manding. General Ames line is very attenuated, too much so for safety, and yet I do not feel authorized to direct him to contract it toward his left with- out authority from General Butler. A. H. TERRY, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Brigadier.Generai AMES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general directs me to say that your last dis- patch was forwarded to General Butler, who replies that General Weit zel could not see to move last night, but will move this morning. Very respectfully, & c., WM. P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 420 420 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTEftS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Brigadier-General AMES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to request that you will make every endeavor to cnmmunicate with General Weitzel, and urge him to get the division in on your right. As soon as he does so you will move to the left. You will hold yourself in read- iness to move to your left in case we are attacked, whether relieved by General Weitzel or not. Fery respectfully, & c., WM. ~. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Brigadier-General AMES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that General Weitzel has been ordered to withdraw. He will pass in your rear, probably close behind, so that his troops will be within support- ing dtstance. As soon as his rear passes yonr right, you will break off your right brigade to the left and rear, and the other brigades succes- sively, so that you may be able during the movement to form two lines in case of an attack. Yery respectfully, & c., WM. P. SHREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Brigadier-General AMES, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major- general commanding directs me to say that Geiieral Weitzels column has passed dowii, so that his rear re4s on the IDarbytown road. He desires that you will at once commence to with- draw. Very respectfully, & c., WM. ~. SITREVE, Acting Assista at Adjutant- General. You will cross the Darbytown road, forming in rear of General Fos- ters division. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Brigadier- General IINWLEY, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that General Butler thinks there is nothing but reserves in yonr front. He wishes you to push in at once and try what they are made ot Yery respectfully, ~ ~. SITREVE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 421 CHAP. LIY.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 421 ATLEES FARM, Near Darby Road, October 28, 18649.15 a. m. Major-General WEITZEL: You will withdraw to your former po~itiou. I think a shorter and better way is to withdraw in the rear of Ames line by the nearest road. This movement will be made quietly but piomptly, covering your rear and flanks. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Whites Tavern, October 28, 18649.20 a. m. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER Commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina: I am taking my positiou as quick as I can. Before I can tell any- thing about my line I must cut roads through the woods to see where they will come out. I expect to join Terrys right some time to-day. At present time I straddle the Charles City road. As soon as I do join Terrys right, my right flank, although refused, can be easily turned. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER: I have just got in. My troops ar~ all inside of our lines. I left the Darbytowni road as soon as one of Terrys aides reported to me that he was all right. I moved from the Charles City road literally as you ordered it, and in the oiily military way such a movement should be made. I understand that somebody at Terrys understood it differeutly. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 28, 1864. Lieut. Col. GEORGE A. KENSEL: General lleckman tells me that a Tenth Corps surgeou has circulated a report that my column was repulsed at Williamsburg road, routed, that it lost artillery, & c., and other lying reports. I have ordered his name to be ascertained, then I will report him. G. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, October 28, 1864. (Received 6.30 p. in.) General WEITZEL: The Army of the Potomac accomplished nothing yesterday. As regards the matter of your movement to-day, it was all straight. The general will explain to you the circumstances when you both meet~ GEG. A. KENSEL, Chief of staff Page 422 422 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIT. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., October 28, 1864. Each division will occupy the same position on the line that it did before the late movement. The One hundred and seventh, the One hundred and seventeenth, and the One hundred and eighteenth U. S. Colored Troops will retire from the line and encamp in Coxs field as a provisional brigade, under command of the ranking officer, to be thoroughly drilled and disciplined. The commanding officer of this bri- gade will send a staff officer to these headquarters for orders. Division commanders and chief of artillery will send to these headquarters as quickly as possible a Jield report of their commands for the 27th and 28th instant; also a list of casualties. They will, in addition, send a list of names of the killed, wounded, and missing in the late engage- ments, together with a report of operations. By command of Brevet Major-General Weitzel: D. D. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HATCHERS FARM, October 28, 18647 a. m. General BUTLER: Our lookouts report two bugle calls and seven reveilles this morn- ing. Two deserters froni the Eighth Virginia report that no regiment belonging to Hnntons brigade has left and that it was understood General Pickett intended attacking our line this morning. CHAS. K. GRAHAM. HATCHERS FARM, [October] 28, 18648 a. m. Majnr-General BUTLER, Commanding Army of the James: A colored man has just come in who left Petersburg yesterday. He reports that a great portion of artillery on the line between Swift Creek and the Appomattox was removed toward South Side road yesterday. He says only the usual trains ran on the Richmond and Petersburg road yesterday and that no infantry has been removed. I have pro- vided the man with a horse and sent him to you. - CHARLES K. GRAHAM, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 28, 1864. Colonel JOURDAN, Commanding, Headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps: Please inform me if there is any attack or firing on your front. R. S. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 423 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 423 HEADQUARTERS INTRENCHED LINES, EIGHTEENTH Coups, Port Burnham, October 28, 1864. Maj. H. S. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant- General: There is no attack or firing on my front except an occasional shot at Dutch Gap. J. JOURDAN, Colonel, Commanding. NEWPORT NEWS, October 28, 1864. (Received 11 a. Major-General BUTLER: - I have just received a telegram from the War Department ordering me to report immediately to you in person. It will take a few days to close up my accounts here. Shall this be done now or after I have visited you ~ EDWD. A. WILD, Brigadier- General. Yes- close up your accounts. B. F. BUTLER. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 29, 18641 p. rn. (Sent 1.20 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: The different corps of the army engaged in the recent reconnaissance returned yesterday afternoon to their several positions, since which all is quiet. Late in the mol-ning small bodies of the enemys cavalry appeared and followed the withdrawal, evidently simply as observers. Signal officers reported at intervals daring the afternoon the return of bodies of the ~nemy to their lines and toward Petersburg. I forward a dispatch received at 12 m. to-day from Major General Hancock. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. General HUMPHREYS, Chief of staff: General Egan reports that his skirmishers, who had crossed the run above the bridge preparatory to his infantry attack, captured one gun and limber full of ammunition. The gun was captured by a few men of the One hundred and sixty-fourth New York, the regiment selected to carry the position. When General Egan moved his troops against the enemy who were attacking INIott, these skirmishers, who were left to head the bridge, chopped the spokes off the wheels and threw the gun into the mill-pond. The officer with the party thinks the gun entirely covered. General Egan has three stand of colors. WIXFD S. HANCOCK, 3ft~or- General Page 424 424 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERALS DEPAiRTMENT, October 29, 1864. Major-G~eneral HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Two deserters from Wises brigade, of Johnsons division, came into General Miles lines last evening. From then) we learn that three brigades of Johnsons divisTion (Ransoms, Gracies, and Elliotts) moved on Thursday morning last to the right and took the position vacated by Mahones division, which moved to the extreme right abont 10 a. in. of the same day. Wises brigade was left to hold the line originally occnpied by Johnsons division. A rebel lieutenant from the Forty-sixth Virginia, Wises brigade, came over to General Miles night before last. His statement corroborates the above. Johnsons division had not returned last evening. All the prisoners of war taken in the late emigagement represent MacRaes and Cookes brigades, of ileths division, and Mahones old and Wilcoxs brigades, of Mahones division. Information from City Point shows no movement of Picketts, Fields, or Hokes divisions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. C. BABCOCK. STATION NEAR FRIENDS HOUSE, October 29, 18649.30 a. rn. Maj. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer: There are some very small new camps of the enemy visible this a. in.: one among the new works on the left large enongh to indicate that 100 men are there. There is no change in the works. B. W. MARCY, In Charge of station. AVERY HOUSE, October 29, 186410 a. m. Major FISHER: Station here reports enemys works in this front heavily manned. W. R. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- 6~eneral. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. Major FISHER: Stations report a train of twenty ambulances moving eastward along the Cox road this p. m. and the enemys lines near J. Boisseans and H. Jones houses occnpied. A small body of infantry in line all the p. m. near Bntterworths house on Boydtou plank road. CHAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, & c Page 425 CHAr. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 425 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 29, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Stair: GENERAL: The plank road station reports: Three hundred infantry in line, with arms stacked, a little to the right and rear of the lead-works. The enemys line in our front as far left as the lead-works has as- sumed the same appearance as before the move. From lead-works to the left, as far as can be seen from this station, the tents have been put up in line of works as formerly and camps are being established in their old positions west of the Weldon railroad to the right of the fort. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, ]Jfajor and Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 29, 18645.30 p. m. Major FISHER: The regiment reported this a. m. as in line to the right and rear of lead-works is still there; has been in line all day. Camps west of rail- road and to the right of large fort have been but partially re-established. The greater portion of the troops are lounging around and have not put up tents; have had rations issued theni and have been np in line several times during the day. In our immediate front the enemy shows a strong line and appears desirous of keeping them from view as much as possi- ble; could not see where they came from. A. K. CAROTHERS, Sergeant. CHURCH ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 29, 18645.30 p. m. Captain DAVIS: At 9.30 a. m. about 100 pioneers made their appearance in works near Jones; at 12.30 p. m. four wagons l)assed westward on Boydton plank road; at 4.30 p. m. nineteen ambulances passed point 15 degrees east of north on Cox road, going eastward. The enemy has apparently reoccupied his former camps along this front. J. L. PRAY, Sergeant. CAMP 205TH REGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, Old Court-House, Va., October 29, 1864. Col. J. A. MATHEWS, 6ommanding Post: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I have been relieved from a tour of duty for forty-eight hours as field officer of the day by Capt. Joseph 0-. Holmes, Company B, Two humidredand fifth Regiment Penn- sylvania Volunteers, and dunn g my tour of duty, commneimcing the 27th, I had the I)ickets all posted as my predecessor had them, and there being no cavalry iu our front I was re-enforced by the arrival o Page 426 42~ OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tOHAP. MV. two sergeants and thirty-one mounted men from Dismounted Camp, who I posted along our east front picket-line with several posts, after sunset, who remained ou duty nutil sunrise the next morning. One of these vedettes being posted not far from Ralphs house and in front of our hue three-eighths of a mile, in a large body of timber at the confluence of two roads, and consisted of three men armed with sabers and revolvers, were, on or about 2 a. m. of the 28th instant, captured, together with their horses and acconterments, by what pretended to be a lieutenant and four privates of the rebel army. One of the men escaped, however, from them and returned to his comrades during the day, from whom I derive my information concerning their capture. The night being very dark, and surrounded by a dense pine wood, the rain falling, together with the stamping of their horses a short distance in their rear, precluded them from hearing the approach of the enemy until they sud- denly appeared in their front, at the distance of five or six paces from them, with arms ready to fire, and demanding their surrender. The escaped man says, further, that so far as he could judge in the dark- ness, several of their captors were armed with double-barreled fowling- pieces, and in consequence of all these facts, these men, I conclude, are within our lines, and may perhaps belong to those who have taken the oath of allegiance, and have safeguards at their houses. In the morning of the 28th, after learning of the capture of this post from the sergeant in command, I, at once, with a sergeant and sixteen mounted men, proceeded to the spot above mentioned, and following their tracks from thence to a small stream which crosses the road, from whence they appeared to diverge to the left, pursuing our course along the stream until we arrived at the cleared land; it then went in the direction of the residence of a man named Taylor. From there we fol- lowed it but a short distance, when we lost all trace of them; but still pursuing a course in a southeasterly direction. visiting a number of houses in our course, until we came out to the south of Prince George Court-House. We then reti-aced our way back to Doctor Eppes house, meeting with nothing on our way to give us any clue to the captured men. I would state that of all the houses we visited there were no white men present with but one exception, and that was near the Court- House. All the others were away from home with the ostensible pur- pose of drawing rations from the United States Government. At every inhabited house I found a safeguard, the owner having taken the oath. Permit me, colonel, to make one remark in reference to these men, and that us this. These are the men who, under cover of darkness, infest our picket-line, endeavoring to pick off our men, and I would respectfully - submit that the safeguards be withdrawn and the parties themselves to go outside of our lines, either north or south. This squad of men were relieved at 4 p. m. by the, arrival of thirty-four men, in charge of Sergeant Heslop, of the Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who, had also fifty men brought out the afternoon of the 27th who were stationed farther off on the left of the Birchett house, wit1~ a line of four posts perpendicular to their base on the road running east and west by the Eppes dwelling, the whole numbering eighty-four men. On the evening of the 28th, about 7.30 p. in., a company of cavalry of the Tenth New York arrived, in charge of a lieutenant. The com- pany numbers sixty non-commissioned officers and privates. At the Eppes house, from the Prince George Court-House, along the stage rGad, there is at present the First Pennsylvania Cavalry, with the Tenth New York, doing duty on said road, with headquarters at the Court-House, with orders to report to General Gregg, by whose order Page 427 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 427 they were sent out. iwould state, farther, that during the night of the 27th one of the cavalry vedettes, being attacked or frightened by some- thing in his vicinity, fell back to the main line, and being challenged and not answering, he was fired upon by the man on duty, and unfortu- nately the ball struck him in the calf of the left leg, making a severe flesh wound. During the night of the 28th there was some firing along our line that commences at or near Doctor Eppes honse and extends along that road to a point beyond Ralphs house, near which it crosses the road, coming from Baileys Creek. I had received an additional re-enforce- ment of fifty dismounted cavalry, and distributed these men along the line with my own, thereby strengthening each post. The firing was some from the cavalry along my east front and some from my own pickets, who thought in the darkness they distinguished objects mov- ing near their posts, and having challenged them, receiving no answers, fired their muskets several times during the night. I gave orders at night, when I passed along the line, for the posts to change their posi- tions to places different from those occupied during the day. Colonel, in conclusion, I would say that the officers and men in my charge have done their duty as intrusted to them well and faithfully; and farther, that the line as now established needs no change, in my judgment.. I am, very respectfully, colonel, your most obedient servant, W. F. WALTER, Lient. Cot. 205th Regt. Penn. Vols., Field Officer of the Day. [First indorsement.] Respectfully forwarded, with an apology for the voluminousness of the document. J. A. MATHEWS, Colonel, Commanding Post. [Second indorsement.] IRespectfally referred to General Patrick for perusal, and with the recommendation that the safeguard be withdrawn from the house of the said Taylor, if not from all others except known loyal men, if any such are to be found. II. W. BENHAM, Brigadier- General: HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARiwv CORPS, - October 29, 18649 a. m. General WILLIAMS: My command is located as follows: One brigade of Third I)ivisiou near Chieves house; the rest of the division near the Southall house; one brigade, Second Division, in rear of Fort Stedman; the rest of the division in rear of these headquarters. There is nothing new to report, except that the enemys works are well manned this morning. A regi- ment was sent to Cedar Level last night for guard. WINF1) S. HANCOCK, .Miajor- General Page 428 4~8 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. llIx~Rs. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNOROSS, October 29, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the three batteries of this commaud, which acconipanied the columii on the recent movement, re- turned yesterday and camped with the $econd and Third Divisions. Nothing of importance has occurred On the line duriiig the past twenty four hours. Veiy respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Major, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARTY. BRIG., SECOND CORPS, No. 151. October 29, 1864. I. Capt. A. J. Clark, First New Jersey Artillery, is relieved from the charge of the batteries on the line. * * * * * * * III. The commanding officer of Battery K, Fourth U. S. Artillery, will l)lace one section of his battery in Fort Bross and one in Fort Patrick Kelly without delay. His camp can remain where it now is.~ INT. The commanding officer of Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artil- lery, will place two guns of his battery in Fort Blaisdell, near the plank road, without delay (rear line), and select a suitable camp near by for the rest of his battery. V. The cominatiding officer of the Tenth Massachusetts Battery will move to Fort Stevenson without delay and place four guns of his bat- tery in the work. He will select a saitable camp near by for the rest of his battery. Fort Stevenson is the very large work near where the Williams honse used to be, on the rear line. By command of Maj. John G. Hazard: U. D. EDDY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTY-FIRST NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS Port MeGilvery, October 29, 1864. Capt. W. It. DRIVER Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to request that an engineer ofticer be sent to this work in order to examine as to whether the enemy are mm- ing the fort. My impression is that they are mining, though from the natur~i of the ravine on my front I had thought it impossible. I would suggest immediate action. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CEO. W. SCOTT, Major, Commanding. [First indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, October 29, 1864. liespeetfally forwarded, with the recommendation that an engineer officer be sent to examine this fort. NELSON A. MILES, Brigadier. General, 2ommanding Page 429 CHAP. MY.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 429 [Second indorsemeut.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 29, 1864. I do not think it probable that the enemy are engaged in any mining operations against Fort MeGilvery, as the ~at in front would make their operations very difficult if not impossible, and the distance is con- siderable. Still, I think it would be advisable, if for no other reason, than to allay the apprehensions of the garrison, to let an engineer officer examine the matter and report whether he thinks any countermine or listening galleries necessary. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding. [Third indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 30, 1864. The commanding general directs that an engineer officer be sent at once to Fort McGilveiy to make the examination within desired. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Fourth indorsement.] HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ENGINEER DEPT., October 30, 1864. Respectfully returned. An engineer officer has been ordered to make the necessary examina- tions at Fort MeGilvery. N. MJCHLER, Major of Engineers. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SECOND 1)iv., SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 74. October 29, 1864. The brigadier-general, temporarily commanding thedivision, on relin- quishing command, takes pleasure in commending the officers and men tor their unexcelled (hisciphille and gallantry during the late operations. He has never had the pleasure of ~vitiessiig greater bravery or the good fortune to be bette sup orted, although entirely surrounded by a vastly srmikrior force arid of the 6lite of the rebel army. Y our heroic steadiness has pro~e(i your ability to win viotory in 51)ite of apparently ]misurmnonntable difficulties. Time behavior of his corrimand compels himmn to pass over to them as their right the eneomiurns of his superiors. It gives hun unfeigned gratiheatiori to be able to commend all parts of his conrommrand without exception, amid t) assure them that proper represen- tatioims of the fhcts will be made to the major-general corumnanding on his return. By command of B~igadier-General Egan, commuanding division: WILL GILDER, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General Page 430 430 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SECOND Div., SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 75. S October 29, 1 f164. The undersigned, on assuming the command of the division, cannot refrain from expressing his great gratification at the testimonials he has received from the division commander and the highest authorities ot the gallant condnct of the division in the late engagement near Hatchers Run. Wiith such conduct in action he feels no fears as to the past gallant reputation of the division being maintained. JOHN GIBBON, Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. Maj. SEPT. CARNUROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, & cond Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that this command arrived in camp at 5 p. in. yesterday. The Second and Third Brigades were massed near the Southall house, and the First Brigade in rear of Chieves house. At dark the First Maine Heavy Artillery, Colonel Shepherd commanding, was sent to Cedar Level Station to protect commissary stores. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient ser~ammt, U. MOTT, Brecet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. Brevet Major-General MOTT; Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The commanding general directs me to say that in order- ing a regiment of not less than 140 in strength to be forwarded to Cedar Level Station, last evening, it was intended that the regiment should be about that number. If a regiment of that description cannot be forwarded, then all of the men at Cedar Level Station in excess of about that number will be returned to your present station. I am, general, very respectfully, yoar obedient servant, SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 29, 1864. Brevet Major-General MOTT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: Through you I beg to thank Colonel McAllister, com- manding your Third Brigade, for indispeimsable service rendered to myself and command during the recent operations. Colonel McAllister l)ronght up his command at a critical moment when I was almost sur- rounded by a force of vast disparity of strength. The defiant bearing of the enemy showed that they regarded their combinations as undoubt Page 431 CHAP. Mv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 431 edly successful, and wanting oniy final execution. My command hadi done everything possible when Colonel McAllister saved them. I can- not sufficiently thank him. The recounting of the particulars of his services is unnecessary, as they are too brilliant not to have been made public ere this, but I beg that you will, if consistent, commend them at large to the major-general commanding the corps, as I shall take great pleasure iii doing. Your most obedient servant, T. W. EGAN, Brigadier- Oenerai, Commanding Second Division., ORDERS.j HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 29, 1864. The following disposition of troops is ordered: General Dc Trobriand, commanding First Brigade, will place his brigade in camp near the Chieves house as a support to the line near the plank road. Gen- eral Pierce, commanding Second Brigade, will place his brigade in camp in the rear of Fort Alexander Hays. Colonel McAllister, commanding Third Brigade, will furnish garrison for Forts Bross, Pa trick Kelly, Blaisdell, and Stevenson. The reserves of this brigade will encamp near the Southall house. There will be a section of artillery in each of Forts Bross, Kelly, and Blaisdell, and four guns in Fort Stevenson. The camps of the brigades must in all cases be entirely screened from the view of the enemy, that they may hereafter be broken up without discovery, and no trees will be allowed to be cut down in the front that may expose the camps. This order will go into effect this evening; the preliminary arranger ments can be made during the day. By command of Brevet Major-General Mott: J. P. FINKELMEJER, Assistant Adjutant- General.. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, October 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. R. DE TROBRIAND, Commanding First Brigade: GENERAL: In pursuance with instructions from corps headquarters, the brevet major-general commanding desires that all troops in excess of 140 men now stationed at Cedar Level Station be withdrawn and ordered to join your command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. FJNKELMEIE7R, Assistant Adjutant- General. AVERYS HousE, October 29, 1864. Lieutenant STRONG: A party of about 100 are engaged in extending rifle-pits in rear and left of Whitwortli battery. The enemy in works. in our front are still as numerous as this a. in. JANSEN. Page 432 432 OPERATIONS IN SE. YA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. SPECIAL } WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, ORDERS, Washington, October 29, 1864. * * * * * * * 17. Brig. Gen. E. A. Wild, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty as commandant of the recruiting rendezvous established by Gen- eral Orders, No. 227, July 9, 1864, from this office, at Fort Monroe, Va., and will report for duty to Major-General Butler, commanding Depart- ment of Virginia and North Carolina. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. FORT BRADY, VA., October 29, 1864. Col. II. L. Arn~oT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy commenced to fire quite rapidly at the canal this morning. Opened with the 4.5- inch gun and soon caused them to slacken their fire. Was at your headquarters much during the afternoon. Mr. Woodruff informs me that they shelled but little after I left. Just now, 9 p. in., they are making considerable noise. In fact, most of their practice is between dark and daylight. Very respectfully, your 9bedient servant, H. II. PIERCE, Captain, First Connecticut Artillery. FORT MONROE, October 29, 1864. Major-General MEIGS, (Received 11.35 ~. in.) Quartermaster- General: When yonr dispatch was received the Atlantic and Baltic had gone to Point Lookout for sick prisoners. 1 will transfer these prisoners to other boats when they arrive here. The boats were taken as the only safe boats in the service fit to convey sick and wounded soldiers of the United States who have been languishing in prisons for many months. They are the only boats fit for that purpose as hospital boats on the coast in the November storms. The soldiers of the United States sick and wounded in the comfortable hospital at Fort Monroe General But- ler thought could wait there before they were transported to New York, and the surgeons in charge go with them to that city on a pleasure trip, better thaii could our soldiers, sick, emaciated, and wounded, stay in a filthy Southern prison and die for want of this transportation% which, in fact, -is not employed more than half the time. If our soldiers die in foreign prisons for want of this transportation their friends and coun- tryinen mnst hold the Surgeon-General responsible, and not General Butler, for inhumanity. There are plenty of boats that can run to New York with safety. By command of Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler: U. C. WEBSTER, Colonel and Quartermaster Page 433 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 433 HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, ARMY OF THE JAMES, In the Field Brevet Major-General TERRY, ~ Va.~ October 29, 1864. Commanding Tenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that yon assnme command of the line of intrenchments from the left of your present position to the James River on your right, including Deep Bottom. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. Col. E. W. SMITH: Ames left a part of his force, incinding his picket-line, out at the Darbytown road until dusk, so that the enemy might not see his with- drawal. His men are all in now. One cavalry officer was somewhat severely wounded. Two of the infantry slightly wounded. Very respectfully, A. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. (Received 2.45 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General: Since sending my last dispatch it is reported that the number of men holding the works is a very small squad. I have, therefore, directed General Ames to push one bati alion ahead and to delay the march of the rest of the two brigades until I could communicate with you. My impression is that the matter is so trifling that the enemy will fall back as soon as our infantry show theniselves, and the cavalry can re establish their picket-line. A. H. TERRY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, October 29, 18642.20 p. m. Let the brigades of Ames move ont, so as to be in supporting distance of West. It is not worth while to take any risks. You do not give the hour of your dispatches. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 29, 1864. Lient. Col. ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. of Va. and N. C. Your dispatch is just i-eceived. At the same moment General Ames came in from the Johnson house, whither hc went to reconnoiter. He 28 R HVOL XLII, PT II Page 434 434 ~PERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CHAP. LIV. informs me that he ascertained that once or twice last night the enemy a(lvanced a small force and pushed back the cavalry pickets in the John son field, and they were in turn pushed back by our cavalry. They have now advanced a skirmish line or picket-line from the edge of the woods up to the intrenchments where they cross the Darby road. 1 have ordered General Ames to take two brigades and move out there, but I presume they will yield to a slight pressure aud with- draw their line to the old position. I think there is nothing in the movement, A. H. TERRY, Brevet MajQr- General, Commanding. HEADQIJARTERS TENTH ARMY Coups, October 29, 18644.10 p. m. Lient. Col. ED. W. SMITE, Assistant Adjutant- General: There was only a small party on the earth-works firing on the pickets. A few dismounted cavalrymen and Ames skirmishers showed them- selves and they went away. Our skirmishers are now on the works, exchanging shots with the enemys pickets. Colonel West will establish his line in the old position, but thinks he cannot hold it if they choose to drive him away. Do you wish any portion of Ames command to remain here ~ A. H. TERRY, Brevet Major. General, Commanding. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, [October] 29, 18645 p. m. Major.General TERRY: Let Ames withdraw his men. Let Colonel West hold the position until he is driven out. By order of Major-General Butler: ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SECOND DIV., 10TH ARMY CORPS, No. 33. In the Field, Va., October 29, 1864. The general commanding is pleased to have this opportunity of inform- ing brigade and regimental commanders of the division that their con- duct and the part which they have taken in the action and on the march of the 27th and 28th instant was such as to meet with the approval of the brevet major-general commanding the corps. He also takes pleas- ure in complimenting the division on their conduct during the march. Notwithstanding the number of recruits which have recently joined the command, there was little or no straggling. Both officers and lieu deserve much credit for thus overcoming one of the greatest evils of the army Page 435 Cxw~. LIV.] 435 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. II. Capt. T. Ellery Lord, Third Infantry New York Volunteers, is hereby announced as acting assistant adjutant-general of the division during the absence of Capt. P. A. Davis, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By order of Brigadier-General Foster: T. ELLERY LORD, Capt., Third Infty. New York Vols., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. 2D BRIC-., 3D Div., 10TH A. C., No. 3. 5 Chaffins Farm, Va., October 29, 1864. In compliance with Special Orders, No. 27, headquarters Third Division, Tenth Army Corps, October 29, 1864, the undersigned hereby assumes command of this brigade. All existing orders will remain in force until otherwise ordered. ELIAS WRIGHT, Colonel Tenth U. S. Colored Troops. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, No 74. 5 New Berne, N C., October 29, 1864. The undersigned hereby resumes command of the District of North Carolina. All existing orders and regulations will remain in force until otherwise ordered. I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 30, 186411 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have nothing particular to report to-day. If you are going to be at home I will come down to City Point. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. WASHINGTON D Brig. Gen. M. B. PATRICK, . C., October 30, 1864. Provost-Marshal-General, City Point: Various reports have reached this Department that you are co-operat- ing with the election agents sent to the army by Governor Seymour, to the extent of showing them favors and furnishing them with facilities not warranted by the passes granted them by this Department and not accorded by you to the agents of the Union party. In view of these reports I am instructed by the Secretary of War to notify you that he expects from you careful aiid exact impartiality toward the representa- tives of the two parties; and also that, as the agents of Governor Sey- mour here and in Baltimore have been detected in the perpetration of gross frauds and forgeries for the purpose of causing the votes of soldiers to be counted in favor of Democratic candidates, when these soldiers intended to vote against such candidates, he expects you to exercis Page 436 436 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. vigilance for the detection of all such crimes within your jurisdiction; and should it fin ally appear that such wrongs have been consummated, when due watchfulness on your part might have prevellte(I them, you will be held responsible for the same. C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of 1~ar. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 30, 186412 rn. Thij. Gen. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Chief of Stafi: GENERAL: The I)lank road station reports: Apparently a less force in our immediate front than yesterday evening, but heavier thami usual. Tents were put up in camps west of the Weldon railroad dur- 1110 the night, giving them their 01(1 appearance. Church road station reports 12 ~. About one small brigade of enemys infantry has just broken camp in woods near Boisse%us, and has marched to our left. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPARTMENT, October 30, 1864. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The several signal stations report nothing but minor movements on the part of the enemy: Abont 600 of the enemy came from their right and went into camp in the vicinity of Boisseans. About 350 left their lines to our right of the Jerusalem plank road and moved toward the city. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. FISHER, Major and Chief Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. Major FISHER: Jordan, Carothers, and Holman report no changes; all quiet. Mes- sages intercepted are of no moment, reporting only movements of our wagon trains, & c. Jordan reports 350 of enemys infantry left works near school-house and disappeared behind the bill going toward the city. All quiet. F. E. TOWN, Captain and Signal Officer Page 437 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 437 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 186411.20 a. m. Maj. Gen. A. A. HUMPIIREYS: I propose to relieve General Miles by the other two divisions. Does General Meade approve~ Yery respectfully, & c., WINFD S. HANCOCK, ]Jliajor- General, C~ommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 30, 186411.40 a. m. (Sent 11.50 a. in.) Ma,jor-General HANCOCK, Commanding Second Gorps: The commanding general approves. A. A. HUMPHIREYS, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 186410.30 p. m. General HUMPIIREYS: Just aftei I returned this evening I learned that the enemy captured a few of General Miles picket-line between Forts Davis and Alexander Hays about 9 p. m. How many were captured I cannot say. General Mott is re-establishing the line. He was about relieving General Miles. It is said the pickets understood the enemy to be our own relief and so did not fire a shot. I have manned the rifie.pits up to Battery 24. Per- haps General Crawford had better do the same beyond, though I antic- ipate no further advance unless because the enemy effected such easy capture. I know very little of the actual truth of the affair. It is said some of the vedettes remained in front after the posts had been captured, ignorant of the whole affair. The captain who brought in the report and who escaped has been in service only two weeks. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major. General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. The following disposition of troops is ordered for to-night: The Third Division, Major-General Mott commanding, will relieve the First Division in the garrisons of Battery 24, 150 men; Fort Hays, 300 men; Fort Davis, 550 men; Fort Sedgwick, 800 men; Fort Rice, 250 mcii; Fort Meikel, 150 men: Fort Morton, 400 men; and Battery 14, 150 men. This division will relieve also the l)ickct-line of the First Division between Battery 24 and Battevy 13. The reserves of the division will be placed in rear of Fort Hays, in the second line at Fort Sedgwick, and in rear of Fort Morton. The picket details will be made up from the garrisons and reserves. As fast as it is relieved the First Division will be massed near the Southall house. General Miles will 1)lace about 250 men in Fort Bross Page 438 438 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIT. about 150 men in each of Forts Blaisdell and Patrick Kelly, and one of abont 550 in Fort Stevenson, relieving the Third Division now in those forts. By order of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CAIINCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. LIDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNOROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that yesterday two guns of Roders battery were placed in position in Fort Bross and two in Fort Patrick Kelly; two of Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery, in Fort Blaisdell, and four of the Tenth Massachusetts Battery in Fort Ste- venson. Nothing of importance has occurred on the line during the past twenty-four honrs. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. HAZARD, Majo~, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. Col. C. D. MACDOUGALL, Commanding Consolidated Brigade: COLONEL: The brigadier-general commanding directs that you will garrison the forts named, as follows: Fort Bross, 250 men Fort Blais- dell, 150 men; Fort Patrick Kelly, 150 men; Fort Stevenson, 550 men. He directs that these garrisons be formed from regiments other than the Sixty-third, Sixty-ninth, and Eighty-eighth New York. These regi- ments, with the remainder of the brigade, after furnishing the garrisons named, will be massed near the Sonthall house. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. H. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. Lient. Col. K. 0. BROADY, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: The brigadier-general commanding directs that you will place the portion of your brigade that is to be relieved to-night in the rear of Fort Haskell, after it is relieved. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. B. DRIVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. 3D BRIG., 3D DIV., 2D A. C., No. 5. 5 October 30, 1864. The colonel commanding brigade congratulates the officers and meim of this command for the manner in which they marched to the Boydto Page 439 CHAP. LIY.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 439 plank road and the gallantry displayed by them in the battle of the 27th instant, reflecting great credit on the old brigade. Your bravery and determination, as exhibited when surrounded by the enemy, is a new wreath added to the laurels of honor already won by this command in days that are passed. May this and the gallant deeds of those battles stimulate us to do or die for our country in the great cause in which we are engaged. Let each one of us resolve to do our duty, and by the blessing of God victory will perch on our banners, peace will crown our exertions, and millions will do honor to those who have so nobly borne our battle-flag through the trying scenes of this rebellion. As we shed a tear over the lost comrades that have fallen by our side let our prayers go up to God for protection to the widow and the orphan, and our sympathy be with them. By command of Col. Robert McAllister: THOS. H. DUNHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant-GJneral. HEADQUARTERS FiFTH ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance occurred in my front yesterday or during the night. No change observed in enemys position. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 30, 18649.30 p. m. Major-General WARREN, Commanding Fifth Corps: There is considerable firing on the plank road, and it appears to be extending toward the Weldon railroad. Will you caution Crawford to be ready to send supports to the intrenchments on the right of the Weldon railroad. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 30, 18649.40 p. m. Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: General Crawford has just sent the following The enemy about an hour ago advanced their skirmish line on our right, and by a flank movement struck the skirmish line of thc Second Corps in front of Fort A. Hays, capturing in their advance toward our left some 300 men from the One hun- dred and eleventh New York and the Sixty-ninth New York. They retired at about a point opposite to Battery 24 Page 440 440 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CITAP. LIV. Generai Crawford says he has just seen and conversed with a man from the One hundred and eleventh New York, who escaped from the enemy at a point near their works. Your dispatch received. Instruc- tions will be sent to General Crawford at once. ResDeetfully, G. K. WARREN, illiajor- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CoRps, October 30, 1864. Brigadier-General AYRES, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that after your men have got their dinner you relieve General Baxters pickets along the whole line.. It will take 800 officers and men. The pickets will remain out two days. A division officer of the day will be detailed for the whole line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 30, 18649.40 p. m. Brigadier-General CRAWFORD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: Your dispatch received by Lieutenant Herr has been telegraphed to army headquarters.* The major-general commanding desires you to be ready to support any portion of your line in case it should be threatened. General Baxters pickets were relieved this afternoon by a detail from General Ayres, as it is intended by the major-general commanding to picket the whole of our front by division, to be relieved every two days. I am, very respectftilly, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1864. (Received 11.05 a. in.) Major-General HUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: I have the honor to report nothing unusual transpired along our lines. Some picket-firing occurred during the night. A deserter from the Eighteenth North Carolina came in this morning; recently joined; does not seem to know much. JNO. G. PARKE, Miajor- General. * See Warren to Humplireys, 9.40 p. in., p. 439 Page 441 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 441 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 30, 1864. Colonel ABBOT: Pratts battery can be moved to No. 17 and transferred to the new work as soon as the latter is finished. The 8-inch mortars can also be transferred from near Fort Sedgwick to No. 20. Can the work be done to-night ~ H. J. HUNT, Brigadier- General. BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 30, 1864. Brigadier-General HUNT Headquarters Army of the Potomac: I will send transportation to move the guns and mortars from Fort Sedgwick back to No. 17 and No. 20 to-night. HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. FORT BRADY, VA., October 30, 1864. Col. H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Artillery: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I have been in and around the canal a good portion of the day. Very strangely, there has been less shelling and more casualties than for several days previous; 1 man killed and 2 wounded, and 2 horses killed outright. Major Ludlow acknowledges, however, that the 4.5-inch gun does the business effectu- ally. Received the new projectile; shall make a careful report of its efficacy. General Butler sent me to-day forty-nine boxes and six bar- rels, the boxes containing 100-pounder shell and the barrels incendiary composition. Am directed to store them in magazine until further orders. Will send you a copy of my report to him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant~H. H. PIERCE, Captain, First 6onnecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS, O~tober 30, 18642.45 p. m. Major-General TERRY, Commanding Tenth Army 61orps: I am about to leave for Fortress Monroe. The command of the forces will therefore devolve immediately upon you. Please keep me advised by telegraph of any movement, and in six hours I will be here. BENJ. F. BUTLER, lliajor- General. Commanding. Forward to General Weitzel for his information Page 442 442 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tOHAP. LIV. HDQkS. LIGHT ARTILLERY BRIG., TENTH ARMY CORPS, October 30, 1861. First Lieut. HENRY V. WILDEY, Commanding Battery F, First Pennsylvania Artillery: SIR: As soon as your battery is relieved by Anthonys (New York) battery, you will move to and take position in the Spring Hill redoubt, on the New Market road. Respectfully, your obedient servant, H. H. JACKSON, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Artillery, Tenth Army Corps. IN THE FIELD, VA., October 30, 1864. Capt. ISRAEL H. SEALY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of Va. and N. C., Army of the James: SIR: We the undersigned, officers of the Twenty-second Regiment U. S. Colored Troops, most respectfully and urgently solicit an order convening a court of inquiry to investigate the action and conduct of Col. J. B. Kiddoo, while commanding the regiment during the 27th instant, and leading it into action on the evening of the same day. Fully imbued with the responsibility resting on us while taking our men into action, we hold it to be due to the honor and name of the regiment to which it is our pride to belong, as also a duty owing to ourselves as men and officers and to the men under our charge, that the veil be lifted which enslirouds our disgraceful rout on the 27th instant; that we, as a regiment, be cleared of the disgrace attaching to us since that day, and that the blame may rest where it properly be- longs, on the head of the guilty party or parties. Our men and our- selves will ever be ready to sacrifice our all and oar lives for our country, in whose cause we have enlisted heart and soul, to the bitter end, but we cannot repel the thought that it is rather asking too much of thinking mcii to risk their lives, which are valuable, if not to them- selves, to the country in its present hour of need, to carry out the sub- lime views and plans of a whisky-crazed brain. Reiterating our prayer to have by the proper authority a court of inquiry instituted in the above premises, with the view of preventing the recurrence of such a disgraceful affair as was enacted by our regiment on the 27th instant, and in the hope that we do not transgress the line of our duty in so doing, we have the honor to be, Very respectfully, your obedient servants, ARTHUR P. MOREY, (aptain, 22iZ U. S. Colored Troops, Commanding Company F. ARTHUR MARKS, Captain Company I, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops. LEVI GRAYBILL, Captain Company B, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops. WILLIAM W. BURKE, Captain Company C, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops. C. MOKEY, Captain Company D, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops. C. F. ETCHACKER, ~Captain, 22d U. S. Colored Troops, Commanding Company C. WILLIAM D. MJLLIKEIN, First Lieutenant, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops Page 443 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 443 [First indorsernei~t.] HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-SECOND U. S. COLOI?ED TRoOPS, In the Field, 1, October 31, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. I. C. TERRY, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. [Second indorsement.] HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIV., 18TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., November 1, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. A. G. CHAMBERLAIN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. [Third indorsenient.] IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., November 3, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. These officers probably have some cause of complaint as to the manner in which that regiment was handled, but it is doubtful whether they have sought their remedy in the proper manner. ALONZO C-. DRAPER, Brevet Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Fourth indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, November 3, 1864. Respectfully forwarded because orders compel me to. I have had as much opportunity for judging of Colonel Kiddoos conduct on this occasion and others as anybody else. I think all this unwarranted and prompted by malice somewhere. I consider Colonel Kiddoo the finest gentleman and officer in my Third Division. 0-. WEITZEL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 31, 186412 m. (Received 7.40 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: I received yesterday, per Captain Alden, the several commissions by brevet with which you have honored this army. 1 find, however, upon examination of them, that in changing the recommended dates, owing to the decision of the Senate not to confirm any appointments with a date anterior to their adjournment, that you have uniutentiQnally changed the proposed relative rank of officers, and in such manner as not only to do injustice but to create confusion in case these officers are assigned to duty with their brevet rank. For instance, Brigadier- General Barlow has held his rank for over two years, has been distin- guished in every action since Gettysburg, and was most conspicuously distinguished in the great battle of Spotsylvania, May 20, 1864, and was recommended for full promotion for this battle; he is brevetted on October 21. Brigadier-General Miles, during all the service o Page 444 444 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. General Barlow, served as colonel nuder his command, was promoted after numerous recommendations a brigadier-general May 12,1864, and is now brevetted a major-general from August 25, causing him to rank his superior officer, General Barlow, equally conspicuous for gallantry, and as strongly nrged for })romotion, and, practically, if General Miles is assigned to duty with his brevet rank, giving him the command of the division in which he has always served under Barlow, nuless he is transferred to another corps, and then he would rank all the division commanders, who were brigadier-generals commanding divisions long before General Miles was promoted from a colonelcy or had held a higher command than a brigade, viz, Willcox, Crawford, Griffin, Ayres, Cutler, and Potter; also, Brigadier-General Mott has been brevetted to date September 10, 1864, which would make him rank Willeox, Crawford, and Griffin, his seniors as brigadier-generals and commanders of divis- ions. Feeling satisfied such was not your intention, and that this condi- tion of affairs has arisen from your attention not being particularly called to the effect of the dates given to these commissions, I have assumed the responsibility of withholding their distribution until a refer- ence can be had to you, and I respectfully recommend I be authorized to return them to the Department, and one of two courses be adopted: Either give them all the same date, in which case the previous relative rank of officers will not be altered, or else change the dates of such as are now October 21, so as to cause the relative rank of the brevet com- missions to correspond with previous rank. I would also suggest, as a most gratifying act to the officers concerned, that without reference to the dates of commissions these commissions should embody the reasons for which they were conferred. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 31, 18G42 p. m. (Sent 2.40 p. in.) bientenant-General GRANT: About 8 p. m. last evening the enemy made a dash on the picket-line of the Second Corps west of the plank road. They were quickly repulsed and the line re-established. Major-General Hancock reports abont 60 men lost as his casualties. I forward you a dispatch* just received from Major-General Hancock, in relation to the affair of the 27th instant. General Hancock does not mention in it that the bridge was held till after midnight and that two regiments of his command remained in possession of the field till after 8 oclock the next morning, when they withdrew, followed by a force of the enemys cavalry. GEO. U. MEADE, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., October 31, 1864. Major-General MEADE: Order to New York city at once the brigade of regular troops in the Fifth Corps. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. p. 448 Page 445 445 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CITY POINT, October 31, 1864. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: A week ago General ilalleck informed General Grant that the Sev- entli Infantry w~as on its way here. Several days subsequent General Grant authorized Geiieral l)ix to retain the regiineitt until further orders it it had ii )t alveady left New York. We have heard nothing from it since, and do not know whether it is on its way or was detained. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, October 31, 1864. General WILLIAMS: Does General Meade wi h the railroad extended toward the South Side road~ If so, a force can be put in the work on Wednesday, a. in. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier- General, & c. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 31, 1864. Brigadier General INGALLS: General Meade will be glad to have the railroad extended as far as Peebles farm, that being at present the left of our hue. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND, VA., October 31, 1864. Major-General IIUMPHREYS, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Scouts returned this morning from the extreme right, bringing communication from agent in Richmond to the effect that the only recent changein affairs in and about Richmond was the movement of 6,000 conscripts, on Friday last, from Camp Lee to the trenches in General Butlers front. Richmond papers of the 29th state that the enemy captured about 400 prisoners from General Butler on Thursday last and about 600 on our left. About 200 of our killed, it is reported, were left on the field. The genernl impression is that General Butlers movement was merely a feint and was understood to be such at the time. The movement on the left they consider of little damage to their cause. Nothing particular could be learned from the south side except from the Richmond papers. No troops have arrived on the north side since last report except conscripts, who are coming in quite rapidly. One out of every five of those detailed to work in the niter-works have recently been conscripted. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. MOENTEE, Captain, ~e Page 446 446 OPERATIONS iN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 317 1864. Major FISHER: A small working party engaged on works south of Boisseaus to-Jay. Stations report no other movements of importance. CHAS. L. DAVIS, Captain, & c. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. Major FISHER: Stations report all quiet. STRONG. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. Major FISHER: Enemy active, improving works at different points from miortli-nortli- west left as far as lead works. All quiet. A. K. C[AROTHERS], Sergeant. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. Major FISHER: Jansen reports the number of the enemys troops on our front has somewhat diminished. A small camp seen to the right of General Bushrod Johnsons headquarters. Two hundred and sixty infantry just passed to our left in enemys front line all armed and with shovels amid picks. F. E. TOWN, Captain and Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. Major FISHER: Enemy has an 8-inch columbiad in position on Whitworth battery to the right of lead-works. All quiet. JANSEN. JERUSALEM PLANK ROAD SIGNAL STATION, October 31, 186. Maj. B. F. FISHER: At 1 ~. in. four regiments, numbering about 1,100 men, moved west from camp west of railroad and about the same number came in from the northwest amid occupied the vacated camp. All quiet. A. K. CEAROTHERSI, Sergeant Page 447 CUAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 447 WALTHALL SJcfNAL STATION, October 31, 1864G p. m. Captain TowN Chief Signal Officer, Second Army Corps: All quiet this p. in. The following have been intercepted: Colonel B[RENT]: A steamer just caine up the river and stopped off Strahans lower landing. Gun- boat above pontoon. J. A. S., At C. (Same to A. B.) 12 ~r. Colonel B[RENT]: A train of flats loaded with troops just passed, going to the rear of Petersburg. B.F., MD. (Same to A. B.) STEUAnTS FRoNT3.30 p. m. Colonel B[RENT]: About 9 a. m. a steamer passed down the river; about eight companies of infantry in line with arms stacked, rear of Battery A, were dispersed to the woods. Thirty wagons and fifteen ambulances passed up the river and fifteen wagons down. No change in o~ir front. Dredge invisible. A lot of beeves grazing below Dutch Gap. From Dunns: At 2 p. m. a steamer went up the river and stopped at Strahans lower landing. Sloops off same landing. Gun-boat in same position. Sergeant, at C. (Same to A. B.) Very respectfully, H. W. HOLMAN, Sergeant. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 294. October 31, 1864. * * * * * * 3. The One hundred and eighty-ninth Regiment of New York Vol- unteers and Battery H, First Rhode Island Artillery, having, in com- pliance with paragraph 1~ of Special Orders, No. 113, of October 28, 1864, from headqnarters Armies of the United States, reported for duty with this army, are assigned, the former to the Fifth Corps, and the latter to the Artillery Reserve. * * * * * * * 6. In compliance with instructions received from headquarters Armies of the United States, the brigade of regular troops serving in the Fifth Corps will at once proceed to the city of New York and report for further orders to Major-General Dix. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary trai~sportation. * * * * * * * 10. Paragraph VI, of Special Orders, No. 294, of this date, from these headquarters, directing that the brigade of regular troops serving in the Fifth Army Corps proceed to the city of New York, is revoked. 11. In compliance with instructions received from headquarters Armies of the United States, the organizations of regular infantry serv- ing in the Fifth Army Corps will at once proceed as regiments and battalions to the city of New York and report for further orders to Maj Page 448 448 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAr. LIV. Gem J. A. Dix. A statement will be forxvarded to these headqnarters, showing the strength of the regiments and battalions at the time of leaving, and of thcir officers who are on detached service iu this army, and the character of the duties such officers are performing. All en- listed men on detached service in this army belonging to the organiza- tions will be recalled and accompany them to New York. The quar- termasters department will furnish the necessary trami sportation. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjatant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. General WILLIAMS: Last night General Mott relieved the First Division from Battery 24 to Battery 14. General Miles division is being massed near South alls house. Sixty men are missing this morning from the picket-line, captured by the enemy last night. It was, however, entirely re-estab- lished. WINFJ) S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 18641.30 p. m. General S. WILLIAMS: In reference to the engagement on the Boydtou plank road it is not true that the enemy had at any time six of our guns in their posses- sion. They ran over a section of two guns at the first onset, but it was immediately recaptured. No wagons were left on the field by my com- mand, though we took away some captured from the enemy. About 1,000 prisoners were captured from the enemy and a numn ber of flags; number not yet ascertained. One gun, a 10-pounder Parrott, was cap- tured at the bridge, drawn off somne distance, and the gun carriage dis- abled. This gun would have been brought off had the proper notifica- tion of its capture been given. The infantry assault of the enemy was completely broken, and they were driven into the woods in great dis- order. A battery they brought out unlimbered, but before opening fire limbered up and retired. The infantry was apparently thrown into such confusion by the attack made on its flank that it was nuable to reform. The enemy was present in force. The following organiza- tions were represented in the prisoners captured: Three brigades of ~ division, one of Heths, and five brigades of Hamptons cav- alry. Every wounded man for whomn we could provide transportation was brought offi The rest were collected, as far as practicable in the darkness of the night and put in the houses near the field, under charge of surgeons detailed for this purpose. I regretted the necessity of this, but in order that I should effect my withdrawal as ordered that night I could not have ambnlances brought up. I had but a narrow wood road, and kept this open for my artillery and troops. I commenced moving about 10 p. m. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding Second Army Corps Page 449 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 449 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 31, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK: Prisoners captured on the 27th are from Weisigers, Harris, and Sanders brigades, of Mahones division; Kirklands brigade, of Heths division, and Butlers, Youngs, Barringers, Dearings, and Chambliss (old) brigades of cavalry. JOHN MCENTEE, Captain, & c. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, October 31, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK: Five hundred and thirty prisoners from Second Corps, forwarded to Yellow Tavern on 28th instant, represented all regiments of Weisigers brigade and part of Harris brigade, of Mahones division; also all of Kirklands old, now MacRaes, brigade, of Heths division. One hun- dred and forty-eight from the Fifth Corps represented all of Weisigers brigade and part of Harris brigade, of Mahones division; also part of MacRaes brigade, of Heths division. Prisoners from the cavalry, including dismounted cavalry, represented Davis and Dearings bri- gades, of W. H. F.Lees division, also iDunovants and Youngs brigades, of Butlers division. Scattering prisoners received since the 28th in- stant do not represent any other brigades~ save those coming from else- where. Respectfully, JNO. C. BABCOCK. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. General HANCOCK: I have had the regiments and batteries send in their claims to have names of battles inscribed on their flags, and find eighty-six are claimed since the war. I have submitted these to a board of three officers, as directed by General Meades order, and the board has first to settle what battles are worthy of being so commemorated, and to name them properly. As this is a matter in which your corps is also concerned, and I suppose that,under the same order you have also appointed a board for your corps, I would suggest that the boards from the Second, Ninth, and Fifth Corps meet at some common point, if it meets your views, to settle upon some general uniform principles, and confer with each other. The board in my corps is Brigadier-General Baxter, Third Division; Brevet Brigadier-General Wainwright, chief of artiflery; Brevet Brigadier-General Winthrop, Second Division, and Colonel Throop, First Division, as recor(ier. Respectfully, G. K. WARREN, Major- General. (Samc to Major- General Parke.) 29 R RYOL XLII, PT H Page 450 450 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. LIV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. General WARREN: I think your suggestion a very good one, and have referred your dis- patch to General Miles, president of my board, with the suggestion that informal arrangement be made between the boards for a common meeting. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. Majoj~-General BUTLER: GENERAL: I am desirous of seeing your new lines, and will start from here to-morrow at 9 a. in. for that purpose. I wish to notify you of my intention. WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. General WILLIAMS: The One hundred and fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, a consolida- tion of three regiments, and a very small one, was in the woods at the hour of the attack on the 27th, and was advancing against the enemys skirmishers when it met the first onset of the enemys assault and was broken up, their colors being captured. It was foolish to take in three colors, but the regiments had a pride in them and were allowed to keep them after the consolidation. I have heard of no other losses, and believe these to be all. I have had General Motts report, audit is not likely that any of General Egans command lost colors. I will send General Motts reports. The One hundred and fifth Pennsylvania is a gallant regiment, and lost its colors without disgrace. The regiment was sent out to see what was between me and Crawford, and took its colors, contrary to my general instructions to regiments skirmishing. WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, OFFICE COMMISSARY OF MUSTERS, October 31, 1864. Maj. S. -CARNCROSS~ Assistant Adjutant-General, & eond Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that between 2 and 3 p.m. on the 27th instant, General Hancock directed me to carry the following verbal message to General Crawford, commanding Third division of the Fifth Corps, operating some distance to our right: I propose carrying the bridge across Hatchers Run, believing that to be the readiest way of deciding our difficulties. Taking five orderlies with me, I passed bac Page 451 CHAP. LIV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 451 half a mile on tlie road on which we had advanced in the morning, and then struck off to the left along a blind path in the direction of some desultory firing, which I conceived to be in General Crawfords front. Going upward of a mile II met the Third Brigade of the Second Divis- ion of the Fifth Corps on its way to report to General Crawford. Continning on a short distance farther I found General Crawford and delivered my message. Soon after leaving General Hancock on the Boydton plank road, half a mile from the Burgess house, I heard very heavy firing, but knew not its cause. Leaving General Crawford I started to return to General Hancock, accompanied by Lieutenant Dresser, of the U. S. Army, who had some information from General Warren to General Meade, the purport of which I am ignorant. Keep- ing rather more to the right than I intended, being deceived in the direction by the firing of General Greggs cavalry and that of the Second Corps, in the midst of a dense forest I rode up to within thirty paces of the vedettes of the enemy, who commanded me and my party to halt. Not knowing their force I turned rapidly to the left, followed by my party. The enemy, though they threatened to do so, did not fire, neither did they pursue us. I soon struck the road, on which I met three of our soldiers with four rebel prisoners, apparently lost. They were directed to the Second Corps. Soon after this I met Major Biugham, of General Hancocks staff, going with a message to General Crawford. I informed him of the danger in that direction, but he de- cided to try and get through and was captured, subsequently making his escape. Upon my arrival at the headquarters of the Second Corps I reported to Major-General Hancock. I have the honor, to be, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. H. STACIA]Y, Eirst Lient., 12th U. S. liufty., Corn. of Musters, 24 Army Corps. [Indorsernent.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 31, 1864. Respectfully forwarded, being probably a paper which General Meade may think of moment in connection with the connection between the Fifth and Second Corps, on the 27th instant. I intended to transmit it this afternoon with the copies of dispatches. Major Biughams state- ment was transmitted this morning. - WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major-General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. That part of the line still occupied by the First Division will be relieved by the Second Division, Major-General Gibbon, commanding, as follows: Battery 13, 150 men; Fort Haskell, 250 men; Fort Sted- man and Battery 10, 300 men; Battery No. 9, 150 men; Fort McGil- very, 800 men; Battery No. 5, 150 men; Battery No.4, 150 men; Dunns house battery, 100 men. The picket-line, including the line along the Appomattox, will also be relieved by the Second Division. The troops in Forts Stedman and Haskell and the Dunns house battery Sse Part I, ~. 238 Page 452 452 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N ~. [CHAP. MV. and Battery No. 4, and the picket-line on the river, can be relieved in the daytime. The remainder of the line will be relieved to-night. A few troops should be placed in the curtains where their tents can be seen. By order of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CAIRNOIROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. The commanding general desires that the names of officers who may have distiugnished themselves during the recent operations by nunsual gallajitry or good conduct be forwarded to these headquarters, with a view to the recognition of their services by brevets. It is only designed to embrace a few marked cases, and commanders are requested to limit the number of recommendations. By order of Major-General Hancock: SEPT. CARNCROSS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRJ~ADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 31, 1864. Maj. SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS, Assistant Adjutant- General, & cond Corps: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that l