watch him well. In any combined operation on the left by both the Fifth and Sixth Corps, the major-general commanding directs that you will, in his absence, assume command of both, besides continuing to command your own corps.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

SPECIAL ORDERS.
HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 21. Court-House, Va., May 9, 1864.

Major General Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby temporarily assigned to the command of the Sixth Army Corps, and will assume command at once.

By command of Lieutenant-General Grant:

T. S. BOWERS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 9, 1864-10 a.m.

Brigadier-General WRIGHT, U. S. Volunteers:

The major-general commanding directs that you assume command of the Sixth Corps.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, May 9, 1864.

In compliance with the above order, Brigadier-General Wright assumes command of the Sixth Corps.

By command of Brigadier-General Wright:

ARTHUR McCLELLAN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, May 9, 1864-2.05 p.m.

Major-General HUMPHREYS:

The pickets on my left have been pushed forward nearly a mile without developing anything. I do not propose advancing them farther unless it is desired. Nothing discovered on our left flank within same distance.

H. G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

I have questioned a man living at the house I mentioned yesterday, now on our picket-line, but as yet can find no road leading from here to Gate. Will inquire still further, and have examination made. Will examine personally.

A. A. H.

37 R R-VOL XXXVI, PT II