the troops here to cross at once it can be done by closing the gap and holding the troop steamers and quartermasters' boats below and let them pass in a body afterward, if you so order it.

H. W. BENHAM,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 14, 1864-11.30 p.m. [Received 12.45 a.m. 15th.]

Brigadier-General BENHAM:

Complete the bridge. General Burnside, with the Ninth Corps, will be ordered to cross at once. Request, in my name, the officer in command of the Atlanta to stop all boats below the bridge, and to-morrow a time will be fixed and a selection made of such as it is important to pass through. Take charge of the bridge. General Burnside will be directed to refer to you in passing over his command. Acknowledge receipt.

GEO. G. MEADE,
Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 14, 1864-11.50 p.m.

Brigadier-General BENHAM:

I have changed the orders, and now have directed Burnside, Wright, and Warren to send over their trains and surplus artillery with guards. I don't like to cross any troops till the big train gets nearer to us.

GEO. G. MEADE,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 14, 1864-8.30 a.m.

Major General W. S. HANCOCK,
Commanding Second Corps:

SIR: The commanding general directs that you at once move your corps to the south side of the James River upon transports to be furnished by the quartermaster's department, and encamp upon suitable ground after crossing the river. You will cross at Wilcox's Wharf.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, June 14, 1864.

Brigadier General S. WILLIAMS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: As soon as the telegraph is open to the wharf I shall move my headquarters there.

Your obedient servant,

WINF'D S. HANCOCK,

Major-General, Commanding.