HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
December 10, 1864-12.15 p.m.

Major-General HUMPHREYS:

At 2 o'clock you will commence withdrawing the troops sent on reconnaissance yesterday. They will return to their former positions. Colonel Kerwin will report his return to these headquarters.

GEO. G. MEADE.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,
December 10, 1864-12.30 p.m.

Major-General MEADE,

Commanding Army of the Potomac:

I have this moment heard some rapid artillery firing about south from here, and very distant. It is still going on. Upon inquiring I learn that a medical officer from General Miles' command just in reports having heard artillery firing before he left the division. I have sent for him and will let you know what he says.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General of Volunteers.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,
December 10, 1864-1.10 p.m. (Received 1.20 p.m.)

Major-General MEADE,

Commanding:

The officer from Miles' command (an ambulance officer) states the artillery firing was first heard at about 11 or 11.30 o'clock, and was rapid. It was still heard a few minutes ago.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
December 10, 1864-1.45 p.m.

Major-General HUMPHREYS:

Withdraw the cavalry at once and direct Colonel Kerwin to prepare his command for immediate movement and report to these headquarters in person at once.

GEO. G. MEADE,

Major-General, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

Received 1.50 p.m. and the order issued immediately to General Miles.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,

December 10, 1864-2 p.m

Major-General HUMPHREYS:

Where are the headquarters reserves and what disposition have you made of the stragglers from the Second and Fifth Corps? I am about