FORT MAGRUDER, February 6, 1864 10 a. m.
My infantry and artillery are now passing through Williamsburg, 2 miles from here, with small detachment some distance ahead to scatter enemy's infantry pickets, with the impression that they constitute the incursive force as usual. Cavalry and myself will start in one hour, passing infantry near Burnt Ordinary. Saw every detachment commander personally, and explained fully and distributed maps, spikes, matches, and files. All is well. General Graham here in command. If possible, will get news through to you by Monday night.
I. J. WISTAR,
Brigadier-General.
Major-General BUTLER.
CAMP AT NEW KENT, February 7, 1864 10 p.m.
My cavalry reached Bottoms Bridge at 2.50 a.m. to-day and found the enemy in strong force. Owing to the peculiar darkness of the night it was impossible to attack till daylight. Enemy had four batteries artillery and certainly three regiments infantry, besides cavalry, and were all night and this morning receiving accessions by railroad. Bridge taken up, and all the fords effectually obstructed. A charge on the best-looking ford was gallantly but unsuccessfully executed by Major Wheelan with detachment of Onderdonks mounted rifles. Loss, 9 killed and wounded; 10 horses killed. At 12 m. to-day, my infantry having arrived by forced marches within 7 miles, I withdrew; could have carried the position with infantry, but not worth while, the main object being defeated. Enemy pursued us to near this place; attacked us at Baltimore Store. Were handsomely repulsed with loss by Third New York Cavalry, Colonel Lewis, and one piece of Belger's battery. Expect an attack to-morrow.
I.J. WISTARBrigadier- General, Commanding.
Major-General BUTLER.
- The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies.; Series 1 Volume 33
This is a cross posting from Thread the Rude Eye.
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