ing, to mass your troops in readiness to move in any direction. The other corps commander, are directed to push forward their pickets, and if the enemy is retreating, to mass their commands. General Pleasonton is also directed in such an event to throw out small cavalry parties on the various roads leading from our position in the direction of the enemy's retreat, to ascertain the nature and the degree of the obstructions therein.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. B. MARCY,

Chief of STaff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

Sharspburg, September 19, 1862-12.15 p. M.

Major-General SUMNER:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs you to send Banks' corps, via Rohrersville and Brownsville, toward Harper's Ferry, with instructions to occupy Maryland Heights.

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

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

Sharpsburg, September 19, 1862-5 p. M.

Major General E. V. SUMNER,
Commanding Corps:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you select a camp-ground near your present position, with good water, &c., and camp your command. General headquarters will be to-night at the same place as last night, the east end of Keedysville. Please send an aide to report your position.

Very respectfully, yours.

R. B. MARCY.

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

Keedysville, September 19, 1862-4.30 a. M.

Major-General FRANKLIN:

Brigadier-General MEADE:

GENERALS; General Sumner reports that the enemy is moving his artillery to the west, and felling trees behind him as elsewhere. The commanding general directs you to push forward your pickets, and if the enemy appears to be retiring, to mass your troops in readienss to mov ein any direction. The other corps commanders are instructed to do the same, and General Pleasonton is directed to throw out small parties of cavalry on the various roads leading from our position in the direction of the enemy's retreat, to ascertain the nature and the degree of the obstructions therein.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. B. MARCY.

Chief of Staff.

[19.]