done while the line is being established, unless it is securely intrenched, as we go, with a heavy flank force and immediate supports to cover the line while it is entrenching.

Respectfully,

G. K. WARREN,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, August 21, 1864-8.30 a.m.

General HUMPHREYS,
Chief of Staff:

It seems to me that a good point to concentrate the troops of the Second Corps before establishing any regular line is little northeast of the Aiken house. A road very direct a little cutting out where I made the slashing around the redoubt. The old line constructed as far as the bend southwest of the Jones house would do. It would then take across to some old works (it may be badly located) and then toward Dunlop's; it would make a line about three miles long from the large redoubt to the railroad.

Respectfully,

G. K. WARREN,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 21, 1864-8.30 a.m.

Major-General WARREN,
Commanding Fifth Corps:

We hear heavy firing in your direction. What is the condition of affairs with you?

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, August 21, 1864-9 a.m.

Major-General HUMPHREYS,

Chief of Staff:

The enemy have driven in my pickets on the north and west and opened with artillery, but his firing is from points where he cannot see.

G. K. WARREN,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 21, 1864-9.30 a.m.

Major-General WARREN:

(Or any officer at his headquarters.)

Heavy firing is heard in your direction. What is going go?

GEO. G. MEADE,
Major-General.