Andrew A. Humphreys to C. Ross Situ, October 27, 1863

– Bealeton, October 27, 1863—2 p. m. [Lieut. Col. C. Ross Situ, Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps :] COLONEL: The reconnaissance which General Buford sent out toward the river has just returned. The enemy have retreated to the river. A portion is on this side. Their left in the rear of Mr. Smith’s house and their right by the station. They have taken u every rail between Bealeton and the station and carried them off. General Buford has now advanced his line of pickets up to within sight of theirs, and will keep you advised of their movements. Bl HUTCHINS, Lieutenant, and Acting Aide-de-Camp. {Indorsement.] OCTOBER 27, 1863—4 p. m. Respectfully forwarded. Lieutenant Hutchins, my aide, has just returned from General Buford, and makes this report. A. PLEASONTON, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Potomac, October 27, 1863. General FRENCH: I am instructed to inform Ape that the enemy has withdrawn to his former position at beyond Rappahannock Station and to Kel’y’s Ford. No immediate necessity exists for sending trains to the rear, and the construction parties at work upon the railroad should have the use of the wagons heretofore furnished them.

A. A. HUMPHREYS,