ished, I crossed in small boat, leaving my horses behind. Found General Sedgwick about 2 miles from the ford, on the Fredericksburg Plank road, engaging the enemy, their line of battle running nearly parallel with the river. General Sedgwick was well satisfied to have me with him, as all his signal officers had been detained on the Fredericksburg Heights that day. Here I had occasion to capture 3 of the enemy. Attempted to open communication with Lieutenant Miner's station, north side of river, from three different points, but was each time driven off by the enemy.

May 4, 6 a. m., field of battle. - Opened communication with Lieutenant Miner, still stationed at Scott's house.

The following is a list of some of the messages sent and received by me:

MAY 4, 1863.

General BENHAM:

I wish the second bridge laid close by the first one; and do not open on those woods for the present.

J. SEDGWICK,

Major-General.

10 A. M.

General HOOKER:

The enemy are pressing on me. I am taking position to cross the river whenever necessary.

J. SEDGWICK,

Major-General.

12 M.

Generals HOOKER and BUTTERFIELD:

General Howe has had a sharp fight, and has taken a flag and 200 prisoners.

J. SEDGWICK,

Major-General.

SCOTT'S HOUSE - 2 P. M.

General SEDGWICK:

The enemy are in some force in my front. Can I be of service by opening on them.

TYLER,

General.

2.05 P. M.

General TYLER:

Use your own judgment in the matter.

J. SEDGWICK,

Major-General.

2.40 P. M.

General TYLER:

Please come over and see me.

J. SEDGWICK.

SCOTT'S HOUSE, - 2.45 p. m.

General SEDGWICK:

I am coming.

TYLER,

General.

SCOTT'S HOUSE, - 3 p. m.

General SEDGWICK:

I will have the bridge done by 3.30 o'clock.

BENHAM,

General.

AT LACY HOUSE, NEAR FREDERICKSBURG.

Colonel TOLLES,

Assistant Quartermaster:

Did our and General Newton's wagons get over safely? If so, send up the light wagons of Generals Newton and Sedgwick to Banks' Ford, to wait there.

H. C. PRATT,

Captain and Aide-de-Camp.