division to the Ashby's Gap and Aldie road, near Upperville, following with the rest of his command as far as it can march. General Burnside will occupy Bloomfield, Union, and Philomont, with General Reynolds on his left, and one division of the latter's corps advanced to Mddleburg. General Pleasonton has been ordered to move forward to-morrow morning to the Manassas Gap Railroad, near Springfield. A report just received from him states that he has been skirmishing in front of Philomont to-day with Stuart, who outnumbers him and has also infantry troops with his command. The commanding general therefore directs you to march at an early hour to-morrow morning, to re-enforce General Pleasonton at or near Philomont. Upon coming up with him, you will accordingly report to him with your command for duty.

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

R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Numbers 53.
November 1, 1862.

* * * *

2. Lieutenant Colonel Chauncey McKeever, assistant adjutant-general, is assigned to duty at these headquarters, to take effect this day.

* * * *

By command of Major-General Heintzelman:

RICHD. B. IRWIN,
Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
November 2, 1862-11 a. m.

Brigadier-General REYNOLDS,

Commanding First Corps:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs you to move your corps as soon as you can get the road, and to establish it to-night on thge left of General Burnside's corps, and between the Aldie and Snickersville and Aldie and Ashby's Gap roads, with one division thrown forward to Middleburg. Please move by such roads, if any, to the left, as will not intefere with General Burnside's corps. General Burnside has already indicated to you the positions of the troops on your right. Please send an aide to headquarters at Wheatland to-night.

I am, &c.,

R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

SNICKERSVILLE, VA., November 2, 1862-1.30 p. m.

General MARCY,

Chief of Staff:

I arrived in person at 12.30 p. m., and found General Couch in position in the gap with Hancock's division, he deeming it necessary that the most of it should be there, in consequence of the enemy moving two columns of troops up the mountain in three brigades. Since that he has asked of General Couch more guns, and in case of firing more infantry. I have informed him that I am ready to relieve him and await his