NEAR BANKS' FORD, VA.,

May 4, 1863 - 9.45 a. m.

General HOOKER:

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

JOHN SEDGWICK,

Major-General.

PHILLIPS' HOUSE,

May 4, 1863 - 10 a. m.

General SEDGWICK:

The enemy have halted on distant ridge, near large brisk house to the rear of city (there is at least a full division), and are forming in line of battle. They are now moving toward the city in line.

JAS. S. HALL,

Captain, &c.

MAY 4, 1863 - 10.20 a. m.

Major-General HOOKER:

Telegraph just received. Will leave in thirty minutes. I have sent all possible information received with regard to Longstreet, and directed copy of your dispatch to be sent via Banks' Ford, having been advised by Benham of communication there with Sedgwick.

DANL. BUTTERFIELD.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 4, 1863 - 10.20 a. m.

General SEDGWICK,

Via Banks' Ford, Va.:

Brigade of Gibbon's still holds Fredericksburg. Your commissary, just come in from your position, via Stansbury house and River road across canal, through Fredericksburg, reports road clear then, say three-quarters of an hour since.

BUTTERFIELD.

MAY 4, 1863 - 10.20 a.m.

Major-General HOOKER:

Heavy force of enemy reported advancing on Fredericksburg.

BUTTERFIELD.

(Copy to General Sedgwick.)

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 4, 1863 - 10.30 a. m.

General SEDGWICK,

Commanding Sixth Corps:

The commanding general directs that, in the event you fall back, you reserve, if practicable, a position on the Fredericksburg side of the Rappahannock, which you can hold securely until to-morrow p. m. Please let the commanding general have your opinion in regard to this by telegraph from Banks' Ford as soon as possible.

S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.