the practicability of his advancing without waiting for your column. What is the delay in your column moving? Every minute is most precious, as the enemy undoubtedly are concentrating to meet you on the crest, and if you give them time enough you cannot expect to succeed. There is no object to be gained in occupying the enemy's line; it cannot be held under their artillery fire without much labor in turning it. The great point is to secure the crest at once, and at all hazards.

GEO. G. MEADE,

Major-General.

4.

FIFTH ARMY CORPS,

July 30, 1864-7 a.m.

Lieutenant-General GRANT:

Several regiments of Burnside's men are lying in front of the crater, apparently, of the mine. In their rear is to be seen a line of battle of a brigade or more, under cover, and, I think, between the enemy's line and ours. The volley firing half hour ago was from the enemy's works in Warren's front.

C. B. COMSTOCK,

Lieutenant-Colonel.

5.

HEADQUARTERS NINTH CORPS,
July 30, 1864. (Received about 7.20 a.m.).

General MEADE:

I am going all in my power to push the troops forward, and, if possible, we will carry the crest. It is hard work, but we hope to accomplish it. I am fully alive to the importance of it.

A. E. BURNSIDE,

Major-General.

6.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 30, 1864-7.30 a.m.

Major-General BURNSIDE:

What do you mean by hard work to take the crest? I understand not a man has advanced beyond the enemy's line which you occupied immediately after exploding the mine. Do you mean to say your officers and men will not obey your orders to advance? If not, what is the obstacle? I wish to know the truth and desire an immediate answer.

GEO. G. MEADE,

Major-General.

7.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 30, 1864-8 a.m.

Major-General BURNSIDE:

Since writing by Captain Jay, Captain Sanders has come in and reported condition of affairs. He says Griffin has advanced and been checked. This modifies my dispatch; still I should like to know the