can see no artillery. A train, consisting of an engine and ten cars, came in this afternoon. a train of wagons was loaded from them, and went off across the hills to the right.

S. F. BARSTOW,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

MAY 4, 1863 - 8.40 a. m.

Major-General HOOKER,

Army of the Potomac;

The third brigade of the enemy's forces seen advancing on ridge rear Roe's house, toward Fredericksburg. This indicated the presence of a division, at least, coming up. Gibbon has but two brigades here. Nothing from Sedgwick; no communication with him.

DANL. BUTTERFIELD,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

(Copy to General Sedgwick.)

MAY 4, 1863 - 8.55 a. m.

General HOOKER:

Have opened flag signal communication with Sedgwick. Sent him Warren's dispatch. Enemy reported retreating from direction whence they came toward Fredericksburg.

BUTTERFIELD.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS,
May 4, 1863 - 8.55 a. m.

Major-General HOOKER:

I am occupying same position as last night. I have secured my communication with Banks' Ford. The enemy are in possession of the heights of Fredericksburg in force. They appear strongly in our front, and are making efforts to drive us back. My strength yesterday morning was 22,000 men. I do not know my losses, but they were large, probably 5,000 men. I cannot use the cavalry. It depends upon the condition and position of your force whether I can sustain myself here. Howe reports the enemy advancing upon Fredericksburg.

JOHN SEDGWICK,

Major-General.

BANKS' FORD, VA.,

May 4, 1863 - 9 a. m.

General BUTTERFIELD,

Old Headquarters Camp:

Colonel McMahon has just left here, and has reported favorably as to General Sedgwick. I have just received orders to lay a second bridge down, however. I now forward your communications to him, and will keep you advised. It is just reported to me that Newton is falling back on my bridge. Your two copies for General Sedgwick now go together.

H. W. BENHAM.