JULY 31, 1863-12 M.

Brigadier-General HAYS,

Commanding Second Corps:

The major-general commanding directs that a division from your corps be posted at Elkton, with one its brigades thrown out to Bristerburg, whose pickets and patrols will connect with those of the detachment of the Eleventh Corps which will be sent to Cedar Run, some 4 or 5 miles from the railroad.

Your patrols and pickets will also connect with those of the Twelfth Corps.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General, Chief of Staff.

JULY 31, 1863-12. 30 P. M.

Major-General SLOCUM,

Commanding Twelfth Corps:

I am instructed by the major-general commanding to say that it is not necessary to make rifle-pits or other works at any of the fords excepting where the brigade at Kelly's Ford is built.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

July 31, 1863-12. 30 p. m.

Colonel HUEY,

Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade:

COLONEL: You will proceed with your brigade to Georgetown, and from that point will scout and patrol the country to Thoroughfare Gap, White Plains, Salem, and in the direction of Orleans and Barbee's Cross-Roads. You will send daily reports to these headquarters of these scouts, and all information concerning the enemy. Use every exertion to suppress bushwhackers and guerrillas. Citizens found in arms with guerrillas will be shot on the spot. Draw your supplies from Warrenton.

Very respectfully,

A. PLEASONTON,

Major-General, Commanding.

WATER MOUNT SIGNAL STATION,

July 31, 1863-1. 20 p. m.

Colonel C. ROSS SMITH,

Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps:

Reconnaissance sent to Hazel River. Found a strong cavalry force at the crossing near Rexeyville.

A contraband, who crossed last night, reports Lee's cavalry at Rexeyville.

D. McM. GREGG.

Brigadier-General.