MAY7, 1863.

Lieutenant Colonel J. CRITCHER,

Commanding Fifteenth Virginia Cavalry:

COLONEL: In reply to your note just received, I am directed by the general commanding to say that he wishes you to take position on the right of the infantry, beginning at Moss Neck Mill, and picketing as before down the Rappahannock. Keep a good lookout, and reply any movement of the enemy that may be discovered.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. H. TAYLOR,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[25.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, May 7, 1863.

Major General S. G. FRENCH,

Commanding Department of Southern Virginia, Petersburg, Va.:

I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your communication to Lieutenant-General Longstreet of the 4th instant, written from South Quay. In reference to the additional force that you ask for, I am directed to say that the subject was fully considered by the commanding general before the troops left the Blackwater, and that the largest force was left with you that orders form higher authority would permit. The batteries of Captain Bradford and Martin were ordered to their original commands soon after the troops recrossed the Blackwater.

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

G. M. SORRESL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[18.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, May 8, 1863.

Major General D. H. HILL,

Commanding Department of North Carolina:

I am directed to notify you that the lieutenant-general commanding will leave to-morrow morning for Fredericksburg, and that until further orders your reports and communications will be addresed directly to the War Department.

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

G. M. SORREL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

(Similar letter to Major General S. G. French, commanding Department of Southern Virginia.)

[18.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, May 8, 1863.

Major General G. E. PICKETT,

Commanding Division:

The lieutenant-general commanding directs that you continue the march of your division in this direction, and go into camp for a few days on the Williamsburg road, some two or three miles from the city.

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

G. M. SORREL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[18.]

45 R R-VOL LI, PT II