Dam. Since I got into their rear there has been great excitement among the inhabitants and with the army. The citizens report that Lee is beaten. Their cavalry has attempted to annoy my rear and flank, but have been run off. I expect to fight their cavalry south of South Anna River. I have no forage. Started with half rations for one day, and have found none yet. Have recaptured 500 of our men, 2 colonels.

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

P. H. SHERIDAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 10, 1864-9.30 a. m.

Officer Commanding Dismounted Cavalry

Detailed to escort train with wounded:

SIR: Should this communication meet you on your way back to the army, the commanding general directs that you escort to Fredericksburg with your command the train with wounded, under charge of Surg. R. W. Pease; and should you be still at Fredericksburg, that you escort to the army the first return train. I am further directed to inquire why you did not escort back the train of empty ambulances that returned last evening.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

May 10, 1864-8 p. m.

Brigadier-General SLOUGH:

Be prepared at 10 o'clock this evening to go in a special boat that will leave here at that hour to go to Fredericksburg to take command of the forces in that city, guard the hospitals, and perform the duties of military governor there.

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
May 10, 1864.

Major-General AUGUR:

The Secretary's order detaching General Slough to go to Belle Plain and Fredericksburg is suspended, and General Abercrombie will go early in the morning. The troops not required to defend stores and wounded will be sent to General Meade as soon as possible. General A. will be in telegraphic communication with Washington for instructions.

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.