CAMP NEAR FALMOUTH, VA., May 3, 1863-9.05 a.m.

General JOHN SEDGWICK:

My dispatch last night in regard to not using signals was intended for night signaling only, as a signal last night might have informed the enemy of your movements, which it was desirable to avoid. General Hooker seems, from the sound, to be pushing this way.

Very respectfully, &c.,

DANL. BUTTERFIELD,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 3, 1863-2.25 a.m.

General HOOKER:

General Sedgwick just reports three regiments threaten his left flank now and have engaged his pickets; three is still a force in Fredericksburg; that he is marching as rapidly as possible, but cannot reach you by daylight.

DANL. BUTTERFIELD,
Major-General, Chief of Staff.

MAY 3, 1863-2.35 a.m.

Major-General SEDGWICK:

An aide just arrived from General Hooker. Everything in the world depends upon the rapidity and promptness of your movement. Push everything. I send the aide to you.

DANL. BUTTERFIELD,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

FALMOUTH, May 3, 1863-3.15 a.m.

Major-General SEDGWICK:

Gibbon telegraphed at 2.40 o'clock that he is putting his pontoons in the water just above the Lacy house without opposition. The two guns were Gibbon's answer, with canister, to a volley of musketry from the opposite shore. No firing since.

S. F. BARSTOW,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

CAMP NEAR FALMOUTH, VA., May 3, 1863-4.55 a.m.

Major-General SEDGWICK:

The following has just been received from the commanding general, and is respectfully communicated to you for your information and guidance:

CHANCELLORSVILLE, May 3, 1863-4.10 a.m.

The general commanding directs me to say that any force in front of General Sedgwick must be small one and must not check his advance.

J. H. VAN ALEN,

Brigadier-General and Aide-de-Camp.

Very respectfully, &c.,

S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

25 R R-VOL XXV, PT II