HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

September 18, 1862-8 a. M.

Major-General FRANKLIN:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you send the First and Sixth Regiments of Cavalry and section of horse artillery that has been serving with them to report to Brigadier-General Pleasonton.

I am, general, very respectfully your obedient servant,
R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

Keedysville, September 18, 1862-5.45 p. M.

Major-General FRANKLIN:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs you to throw forward two companies or more of skirmishers, supported by a brigade, and with them to take possession of the corn-field and height on the right of the woods supposed to be occupied by the enemy in force. You will hold your whole corps in readiness to support the brigade, should this be required. After having obtained possession of the corn-field and height, you will make such dispositions with your infantry and artillery as may be required to hold the position and to drive the enemy out of the adjacent wood. Lieutenant Comstock will indicate to you the enemy out of the adjacent wood. Lieutenant Comstock will indicate to you the position mentioned at an early hour to-morrow morning. It is desired that this movement be executed immediately thereafter unless contrary orders be sent during the night. General Sumner will be instructed to replace your troops in line by others from his corps.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. B. MARCY,

Chief of Staff.

P. S. - Push your pickets forward at an early hour in the morning to ascertain whether the enemy is in force in your front.

R. B. M.,

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
September 18, 1862-10.45 a. M.

Major-General BURNSIDE:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs you to send a small party of cavalry out to scout toward, and as far down as, Harper's Ferry. He also directs you to post a party of cavalry to watch the road crossing the Antietam at its mouth, and to send another small party of cavalry down along the bank of the Antietam as far as its a mouth, to see that no one is crossing it. If cavalry cannot get down along the bank, infantry will be sent in its stead to accomplish the object specified.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. B. MARCY.

Chief of Staff.

[19.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

September 18, 1862-6 a. M.

Brigadier-General PLEASONTON:

GENERAL: The commanding general desires you to push small cavalry reconnaissances to the right, left, and front of the position now