The road from the position of my division to Ross' Mills is entirely different from that direct from Brandy Station. From here it is in passable condition. From Ross' to Turner's, three-fourths of a mile: Good.

Thence to a main road, 1 1/2 miles: Two deep holes, easily repaired.

Along that main road to Madden's, 2 1/2 miles: Good.

At Madden's take right hand for 2 miles to forks: Half dozen bad places.

At forks take right hand to plank road, 2 miles: Good.

Follow plank road 400 yards and take right-hand road, which is not good, but which leads to Jacobs' Ford in 1 1/4 miles. *

The officer sent by me reconnoitered as far as where the track to Jacobs' Ford leaves the plank road.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENRY PRINCE,

Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding.

P. S. -The officer rode to Jacobs' Mills and talked with the miller, who says that this evening, by a mark which he knows, the water at the ford is half way up a horse's side, and too deep for men to ford. The cavalry pickets of the enemy were on the other side.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS THIRD ARMY CORPS,
November 25, 1863-10. 10 p. m.

This report is in accordance with instructions received by me from headquarters Army of the Potomac of this date, and is respectfully furnished.

WM. H. FRENCH,

Major-General of Volunteers.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
November 25, 1863-9. 30 p. m.

Major-General FRENCH,

Commanding Third Corps:

The report of General Price upon the road received. That is not the route prescribed, and if taken will interfere with the Second Corps.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
November 25, 1863-8. 45 p. m.

Commanding Officer Third Corps:

The major-general commanding directs that the wagons containing the intrenching tools accompany each corps, and cross the river with them.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General, and Chief of Staff.

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*For sketch, see p. 932.

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