[Inclosure.]

HEADQUARTERS FIRST RHODE ISLAND CAVALRY,
November 21, 1862.

MAP.

The lower road marked is a small road along the bank of the stream, on which the cavalry pickets a short distance below Ellis' Ford.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
November 21, 1862.

Mayor and Common Council of Fredericksburg:

GENTLEMEN: Under cover of the houses of your city, shots have been fired upon the troops of my command. Your mills and manufactories are furnishing provisions and the material for clothing for armed bodies in rebellion against the Government of the United States. Your railroads and other means of transportation are removing supplies to the depots of such troops. This condition of things must terminate, and, by direction of General Burnside, I accordingly demand the surrender of the city into my hands, as the representative of the Government of the United States, at or before 5 o'clock this afternoon.

Failing an affirmative reply to this demand by the hour indicated, sixteen hours will be permitted to elapse for the removal from the city of women and children, the sick and wounded and aged, &c., which period having expired, I shall proceed to shell the town. Upon obtaining possession of the city, every necessary means will be taken to preserve order and secure the protective operation of the laws and policy of the United States Government.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. V. SUMNER,

Bvt. Major General U. S. Army, commanding Right Grand Division.