June 12th 1863

(Confidential)

Maj. Genl. Reynolds

Genl.,

In view of the position of affairs on the right, the absence of any specific information as to the objects, movements, & purposes of the enemy, the necessity for the presence of the comdg. Genl. here, he directs me to say to you that you will assume command of the right wing of the army until such time as he may arrive there.

You will move with your corps up to the vicinity of Bealton tomorrow. Genl. Howard with the 11th Corps is or should be at Catletts tomorrow afternoon. He left here at 12 today. The position of Meade & Birney you are advised by previous letters. Genl. Pleasonton with all the cavalry is on the right & will of course be subject to your orders.

The enemy must not be permitted to cross the river to make his intended raid. Circumstances may make it proper for you to attack him—of this you must pledge. Use all possible endeavors to get information. Our latest intelligence partly thro’ Pleasonton’s fight & partly thro’ other sources developed the intention of the enemy to commence a raid with his cavalry on the morning of the 10th; whether his infantry were to accompany him or not we have not ascertained. Genl. Lee’s Head Quarters are said to be in the vicinity of Culpepper. Longstreet & Ewell’s Corps (Infantry) & Stuart’s (Cavalry) Corps are reported in that vicinity. Please call for information as reported from all sources that you may be informed & transmit the same to the Genl. The Genl. expects to be able to leave here tomorrow.

He desires that you will cause particular attention to be paid to Raph. & Beverly Fords.

A communication in the shape of a circular is enclosed which you will issue or not at your discretion.

I am very resp.

Your obt. servt.

Daniel Butterfield,

Maj. Genl., Chief of Staff

June 12, 1863

(Confidential)

Genl. Butterfield