bridge across the canal is not yet ready; so troops must move up the tow-path and across at Williamsport, or, coming down, keep the towpath to Shepherdstown. This path is too narrow for wagons.

MAX WEBER,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

SPECIAL ORDERS,
WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE, Numbers 150.
Washington, April 17, 1864.

* * * * * *

2. Brigadier General August V. Kautz, U. S. Volunteers, will immediately repair to Fort Monroe, Va., and report for duty to Major-General Butler, U. S. Volunteers, commanding the Department of Virginia and North Carolina.

* * * * * *

By order of the Secretary of War:

E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,

Fort Monroe, April 17, 1864.

Actg. Rear-Admiral S. P. LEE,

Commanding N. A. B. Squadron, off Newport News, Va.:

ADMIRAL: I inclose to you copies of two communications* I have just received from General Peck, which I commend to your attention. I myself am not much impressed with the views of Generals Peck and Wessells, upon the information stated; but if it would not be inconsistent with your views of service for a few days, I wish you would send the Perry or some other light boat down there, as for reasons which you understand I do not propose to re-enforce with troops.

I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

B. F. BUTLER,

Major-General, Commanding.

NEW YORK, April 17, 1864.

General B. F. BUTLER:

General Ledlie's brigade of three regiments embarked on the steamer Erisccon on Friday. Should have been at Fort Monroe last night.

STEWART VAN VLIET.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,
Fort Monroe, April 17, 1864.

Major General JOHN J. PECK,

Commanding Dist. of North Carolina, New Berne, N. C.:

GENERAL: Your communication of the 14th instant, inclosing letter of General Wessells, received. It will be necessary for you to

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*See pp. 280 and 281.

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