with Hovey, and can support him at any point. Close up all your forces as expeditiously as possible, but cautiously. The enemy must

not be allowed to get to our rear. If you can communicate with Blair and Ransom, do so; and direct them to come up to your support by the most expeditious route.

U. S. GRANT.

EDWARDS STATION, MISS, May 16, 1863. -12. 35 p. m.

Major General John A. McClernand, Comdg. Thirteenth Army Corps:

As soon as your command is all in hand, throw forward skirmishers and feel the enemy, and attack him in force if an opportunity occurs. I am with Hovey and McPherson,. and will see that they fully co-operate.

U. S. GRANT.

IN THE FIELD, Before Edwards Station, May 16, 1863.

Generals Smith and Osterhaus will attack the enemy vigorously, and press for victory. Generals Carr and Blair will support Generals Smith and Osterhaus. General Carr will place General Lawler's brigade as a reserve in front of his first position to-day.

By order of Major General John A. McClernand:

A. L. LEE.

HEADQUARTERS THIRTEENTH ARMY CORPS, May 16, 1863.

General OSTERHAUS:

We are informed that a force of infantry and artillery are pressing between you and Smith. We threw Blair's right and Carr's left between the road. Look out for the enemy there.

By order of Major General John A. McClernand:

A. L. LEE.

EDWARDS STATION, MISS., May 16, 1863.

Major General F. P. BLAIR, Jr.,:

GENERAL: You will hasten to come up with your DIVISION to this place, and, closely following General A. J. Smith, move on to the railroad bridge across Big Black.

Report the distance of your march to-day; also all captures made by you.

Very respectfully,
JOHN A. McClernand.

HEADQUARTERS THIRTEENTH ARMY CORPS.

In the Field, May 16, 1863.

General CARR:

Information is received that the enemy are pressing infantry and artillery between Smith and Osterhaus. You will throw a brigade on the left of your road, and advance it to oppose any such attempt. General Blair will also throw a brigade from his right for the same purpose.