morning. Five companies of the same brigade (Eleventh New Hampshire) are guarding the baggage and ammunition train. The Seventh Rhode Island, of the First Brigade, is guarding the supply train.

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

R. B. POTTER.

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS,
Rappahannock Station, May 5, 1864-2 a.m.

General A. E. BURNSIDE,

Commanding Ninth Army Corps:

MY DEAR GENERAL: I have received your order to march direct to Germanna Ford. You are aware that I am perfectly ignorant of the route. I suppose you do not intend for me to go by Brandy Station. I will start a messenger immediately down the river road to make inquiries.

Very respectfully, yours,

O. B. WILLCOX,

Brigadier-General.

HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS,
May 5, 1864-10.30 p.m.

Colonel HARTRANFT,

Commanding First Brigade:

SIR: General Burnside is very anxious to ascertain if the enemy are in your front. The brigadier-general commanding desires you to let him know anything you have heard or seen that is likely to indicate the presence or absence of any force. Please let the general know by return of bearer.

Truly, your obedient servant,

L. C. BRACKETT,

Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp.

HDQRS. FOURTH DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS.

Camp near Catlett's Station, May 5, 1864-5 a.m.

Lieutenant-Colonel RICHMOND:

Assistant Adjutant-General:

SIR: I have to report that my command left Manassas at 6 p.m. last evening. Owing to bad roads and the dark night have but just managed to get my train and command at this place. Cannot leave here before 9 o'clock. Will move as far as possible to-day. Will send word to the other commands as directed.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDW. FERRERO.

Brigadier-General, Commanding.