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June 13th 1863

General Reynolds,

After receiving all information you can from Pleasonton, put your command in best position possible to accomplish prevention of enemy’s movements whatever they may be. It is probable that a movement is on foot to turn our right or go into Maryland. The information is not of such settled character as to warrant abandonment of this line but still it will need watching at your end. When it is settled then we must concentrate at once one way [or] the other. As it is, our line is necessarily extended and consequently weak. The General’s instructions required him to cover Washington & Harpers Ferry—to do this & hold the Fredericksburg line are impossibilities if the enemy move as last year. We cannot abandon this line on any uncertainty. With this understanding you can act more advisedly. Bealton was named as a central point for supplies and for an ______ until their movements are determined; change it if necessary and advise the General.

(Signed) Danl. Butterfield,

Maj. Genl., Chief of Staff

Official

S. Williams

A.A.G.

June 13, 1863

Genl. Butterfield