George G. Meade to Joseph B. Carr, February 4, 1863

February 4, 1863—Midnight. General JOSEPH B. CARR, Commanding Division :

GENERAL: Colonel McIntosh, who commands the cavalry reconnoitering party, says if you will give him three companies of the regiment -assigned to you, he will take charge of the watching and guarding of Kelly’s Ford, the one immediately below the railroad crossing. I desire this arrangement made, which will relieve your advance brigade from watching above Ellis’ Ford.

Colonel McIntosh also says there is a strong cavalry reserve at Hartwood Church, which you are authorized to call on in case of necessity.

At Colonel McIntosh’s suggestion, the brigade you are instructed to post at Hartwood Church will be more efficient if sent down to the vicinity of the United States Ford, where it can meet and repel any attempt to cross on the partof the enemy. You will, therefore, please SO post it.

Colonel McIntosh will see you at Hartwood to-morrow, and I desire you to co-operate with him in all matters.

Respectfully, yours,