Daniel Butterfield to H. W. Perkins, December 15, 1862

In compliance with inclosed circular from major-general commanding the forces, this corps will be assigned as follows: General Sykes’ division the left of the line, from Hanover street to the westward toward the river, his left connecting with General Couch’s right at Hanover street, and his right extending to the right of the cemetery, Amelia street ; Genera] Humphreys, trom the right of the cemetery, Amelia street, ta Fauquier street; General Griffin’s, from Fauquier street to the junction of the canal and Fall Hill road, and General Whipple’s, from General Griffin’s right to the river.

The different division commanders will examine the roads and localities named, and arrange for perfect and strong connection with their right and left. General Whipple will watch particularly the Fall Hill road and defend it.

The picket lines that are now established will be maintained in a manner to comply with the instructions contained in the circular of the majorgeneral commanding. The reserves and supports will be confined to the respective districts assigned to each command for defenses.

All commanders will comply with the instructions in regard to absentees and patrols, and having every officer at his post.

The districts assigned to division commanders will be bounded by the picket line in front, the river in the rear, and the streets on which their right or left rests. The streets within their districts will be kept open for the passage of artillery trains, ambulances, or mounted men. as may be required. . Any

Division commanders wil] be responsible for the order and condition of the town, and prevention of straggling in their respective districts. All houses will be searched for stragglers, and they will be turned over to the provost guard marshal of the corps, or to their division provost, as may be most convenient.

The corps provost will be stationed at the left of the bridge heads, near Houke street. He will prevent all passage across the bridge, or obstruction across them, except under proper authority. Captain Weed will direct the position of the artillery of the corps. The changes of positions and reliefs will commence immediately after dark, unless sooner ordered.

Division commanders will make known their location and headquarters to corps headquarters.

Roll-call will be made in the entire-command three times each day, absentees punished, and a return sent in ” present for duty” (officers, non-commissioned, and soldiers) in each division at 12 m. each day.

By command of Brig. Gen. D. Butterfield :