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By Telegraph from Chancellorville[sic]

Dated May 1st 1863

To Major Genl. Butterfield,

After having ordered an attack at two o’clock, and most of the troops in position, I suspended the attack on receipt of news from the other side of the river. Hope the enemy will be emboldened to attack me. I did feel certain of success if his communications are cut, he must attack me. I have a strong position.

Major General Hooker

P.S.

All the enemy’s cavalry are on my flanks, which leads me to suppose that our dragoons will meet with no obstacle in cutting their communications.

Genl. Hooker