HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, March 2, 1865-11.45 a. m.

Brevet Major-General MERRITT,
Commanding Cavalry, Middle Military Division:

GENERAL: I have arrived at Fishersville, and found here but one company of cavalry; they fell back toward Waynesborough. The roads are in a very bad condition; almost impassable for wagons or artillery. General Rosser is reported to have passed through here last night.

Very respectfully,

G. A. CUSTER,

Brevet Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, March 2, 1865-12 m.

General MERRITT,
Commanding Cavalry, Middle Military Division:

GENERAL: Do not send the headquarters wagons, for the roads are so bad that it would be impossible for them to reach here.

Very respectfully,

G. A. CUSTER,

Brevet Major-General, Commanding.

ONE MILE BEYOND WAYNESBOROUGH, TOWARD THE GAP, March 2, 1865.

[General MERRITT:]

GENERAL: Early, with four brigades of infantry and one battery of artillery, was posted behind entrenchments at Waynesborough. After an engagement of three hours I succeeded in placing three regiments in Early's rear, and completely routed him, capturing 3 pieces of artillery, 3 battle-flags, a large train of wagons and ambulances, and over 400 prisoners; also a portion of Early's staff. I am in hopes of catching Early; I am pushing him through the gap. My loss is slight.

Very respectfully,

G. A. CUSTER,

Brevet Major-General.

Another handsome battle-flag is just captured.

G. A. C.

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS, March 2, 1865.

Brevet Major-General CUSTER,
Commanding Third Cavalry Division:

GENERAL: You will move your command forward to-morrow (March 3) morning at 6 o'clock, and, if possible, capture Charlottesville. If you succeed in this destroy the bridge across the Rivanna River. Two brigades of the First Division are ordered to support you, but, owing to the state of the roads, it may be some time before they overtake you.

By command of Brevet Major-General Merritt:

J. SPREADBURY,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.