house, a little to our left of Guest's house. I have watched half an hour the Plank road in front of Guest's, to observe if they passed up, but have been unable to trace them farther than ravine. Think they halted.

P. A. TAYLOR,

Lieutenant and Signal Officer.

(Send to Generals Butterfield and Sedgwick.)

MAY 5, 1863.

Major-General HOWARD,

Commanding Eleventh Corps:

I have received orders from headquarters Army of the Potomac to cross the river with all the artillery, except six pieces now in position on the right with General Reynolds. General Hunt will give us position along the river bank.

Yours, most respectfully,

L. SCHRIMER,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Chief of Artillery.

MAY 5, 1863 - 12.30 a. m.

Major-General BUTTERFIELD,

Chief of Staff:

Communication with General Sedgwick is at present full and open by two bridges and by messengers or telegraph. His main body is, however, below the crest of the hill, opposite the ford, under full fire of artillery. I consider his command in great danger.

R. O. TYLER,

Brigadier-General.

BANKS' FORD, VA.,

May 5, 1863. (Received 1 a. m.)

General HOOKER:

I shall hold my position, as ordered, on south of Rappahannock.

SEDGWICK.

HEADQUARTERS,
May 5, 1863- 1 a. m. (Received 2 a. m.)

General SEDGWICK:

Dispatch this moment received. Withdraw. Cover the river, and prevent any force crossing. Acknowledge this.

By command of Major-General Hooker:

DANL. BUTTERFIELD.

BANKS' FORD, VA.,

May 5, 1863 - 2 a. m.

Major-General BUTTERFIELD:

General Hooker's order received. Will withdraw my forces immediately.

JOHN SEDGWICK,

Major-General.