from and opposite to their left. On that side the rest of the country is much lower than our position or theirs. My examination of their flanks while occupying them in front has satisifed me that they are not so strong as we, except in cannon; that they were surprised by our approach; that their flanks are accessible, and that we can whip them, and for the purpose of forcing a retreat have probably done so already.

J. D. COX,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

[5.]

GENERAL ORDERS,
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, &C., Numbers 15.
Fort Monroe, Va., September 25, 1861.

I. Captain William D. Whipple, assistant adjutant-general, having reporting for duty at these headquarters, will relieve Captain Charles C. Churchill, acting assistant adjutant-general, and is announced to the command as chief of the staff.

* *

By command of Major-General Wool:

C. C. CHURCHILL,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

[4.]

SEPTEMBER 25, 1861.

General W. S. ROSECRANS:

The enemy have not left us entirely, though they undoubtedly moved back part of their force. They still hold the position, and there are some signs of a gun on the bald hill I have mentioned, apparently with a view to protect their left flank. I will keep reconnoitering, but as much as possible without fighting, till you arrive. I have thought their actions indicated a disposition to leave the Lewisburg turnpike and move toward Blue Sulphur Springs.

J. D. COX,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

[5.]

SPECIAL ORDERS,
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Numbers 159.
Washington, September 27, 1861.

I. Captain Henry W. Smith, assistant adjutant-general, volunteer service, is assigned to duty with Brigadier-General Casey, Department of the Potomac.

* *

By command of Lieutenant-General Scott:

E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

[5.]

SPECIAL ORDERS,
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Numbers 80.
Washington, September 27, 1861.

* *

7. The following-named regiments will constitute a brigade, to be a commanded, until further orders, by the senior colonel: Fiftieth New York