BALLOON IN THE AIR,

April [29], 1863.

Major-General BUTTERFIELD,

Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: The enemy's line of battle is formed in the edge of the woods, at the foot of the heights, from opposite Fredericksburg to some distance to the left of our lower crossing. Their line appears quite thin, compared with our force. Their tents all remain as heretofore, as far as I can see.

Very respectfully, &c.,

T. S. C. LOWE,

Chief of Aeronauts.

BALLOON EAGLE, OPPOSITE FREDERICKSBURG,

April 29, 1863.

Professor LOWE:

SIR: In accordance with your order, Lieutenant Libby took the balloon in tow along the river bank. When I was opposite south end of the city, I could plainly see heavy earthworks, and well supported by a large force. These earth works were nearly southwest, in thin wood. Some movements of army wagons; nothing more.

Yours, respectfully,

E. S. ALLEN.

F SIGNAL STATION,

April 29, 1863-12 m.

Captain CUSHING,

Signal Officer, General Headquarters:

We see enemy's infantry in intrenchments at Hazel Run Crossing. Train of twenty-three wagons parked near the Dahlman house for the last two hours; in now moving toward our right.

P. A. TAYLOR,

First Lieutenant, Signal Officer.

ONE MILE FROM GERMANNA BRIDGE,

April 29, 1863-12.50 p. m.

Major General O. O. HOWARD,

Commanding Eleventh Corps:

The general commanding directs me to inform you that he has sent positive orders to General Williams to close up the Twelfth Corps, and he is very anxious you should advance your command as rapidly as possible. If the trains of the Twelfth Corps are in your way, turn them out.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. C. RODGERS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Indorsement.]

Colonel Asmussen will see this order strictly executed. Make no halt of more than fifteen minutes in either division.

By command of Major-General Howard:

C. H. HOWARD,

Aide-de-Camp.

19 R R-VOL XXV, PT II