June 25 (8.10 AM), 1863

Major General J. F. Reynolds,

Commdg. &c. &c.

Orders were telegraphed you this morning to assume command of the 3. and 11. Corps in addition to your own. At the same time directions were given for a brigade of cavalry to report to you with two sections of artillery. All of these troops are under orders to cross the Potomac today, at or near Edward’s Ferry. All but the third corps being convenient to that crossing at this moment.

The cavalry & sections of artillery are ordered to report to you that you may take possession of Compton’s Gap & what is called South Mountain Gap as speedily as possible, if practicable tonight, and that each cavalry column may be closely followed by a brigade of infantry and battery and all instructed to hold those passes until further orders. Late last night the enemy had no force at either pass. As their possession may be of great importance in determining the future operations of this army, the General desires that you will take & hold them.

You will direct your column in the direction of Middletown, on two lines, should you find it practicable, & there encamp, should you receive no orders to the contrary.

Please keep the General informed of all your movements & those of the enemy as soon as you learn them & especially advise him the moment we are in possession of the Gaps.

Two of his staff officers will be sent you also maps.

Very Respectfully,

Your obt. Servant,

S. Williams,

Asst. Adjt. General

Recd. at Edwards Ferry

1.45 P.M.

J.F.R.

Directing Genl. Reynolds

to take command of 3d.

& 11th Corps in addition to

1st Corps. June 25th 1863

S. Williams