CENTERVILLE, MD., [September] 17, 1862

General HUMPHEYS:

5 p. M. - Get here before daybreak.

F. J. PORTER.

Major-General.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

September 17, 1862-12 midnight.

Major General D. N. COUCH.

Commanding:

GENERAL: Major-General McClellan desires you to march with your command to-morrow morning in time to report with it to Major-General Franklin as soon after daylight as you can possibly do so. Franklin is on the left of General Sumner.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

September 17, 1862-6.10 p. M.

Major-General BURNSIDE:

GENERAL: General McClellan directs me to say that whatever the result of your affair to-night may be, you must so guard the bridge with infantry and artillery as to make it impossible for the enemy to cross it.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

September 17, 1862-6.15 p. M.

Major-General BURNSIDE:

GENERAL: General McClellan directs me to inclose the accompanying dispatch* from signal officer, and to say that if there is any truth in it, he desires you to push the enemy vigorously. Let the general know if the enemy is retreating and he will push forward with the center.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

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*Not found.

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