George Stoneman to J. H. Taylor, April 13, 1863

The order of march to-morrow, and the operation of the Cavalry Corps, will be as follows:

The squadrons of Davis’ brigade will cross the North Fork of the Rappahannock at Sulphur Springs about 12 o’clock to-night, and follow down the south bank of this fork, and clear out any enemy’s force met with between the point of crossing and Freeman’s Ford, at which point Colonel Davis will be with the head of his brigade. As soon as Colonel Davis opens up communication with these three squadrons, he will cross with the whole of his brigade and turn Beverly Ford, where General Averell will be with the head of his division.

General Averell will cross with his division at Beverly Ford, followed by General Gregg, with his division. General Buford, with his Reserve Brigade, will cross at the ford in the vicinity of the Rappahannock railroad bridge simultaneously with General Averell. As soon as General Averell and General Buford are across the river, and both have formed their commands a short distance beyond the river, Averell will push on to Culpeper Court-House, keeping to the right of the railroad, if possible to transport his artillery, or, if there is no road leading along the right and near the railroad, then by the nearest road. Gregg will cross the river as soon after Averell as possible, and follow him, well closed up on his rear.

If there should be a route practicable for artillery, and running parallel to the route pursued by Averell, Buford will follow it, provided it does not lead too far to the left. If there is no such route, the artillery of Buford will be sent to the rear of Gregg, and the Reserve Brigade will march through the country, irrespective of roads, keeping at such a distance from Averell as to give room for Averell to form his division front into line of battle. Averell will move on in the direction of the enemy, who is supposed to be a mile or so this side of Culpeper Court-House. In case Averell comes upon the enemy, Gregg will form his division at once, and hold it in readiness to move to the right of Averell’s division, and Buford will act, looking to the left, and Davis will endeavor to turn the enemy’s left flank. If the enemy is encountered, he will be attacked at once and with the utmost vigor, pouring in upon him every available man, excepting a limited reserve in each command.

Colonel Rush, commanding Lancers, will report in person at daylight, April 15, to these headquarters, for special service.

The major-general commanding expects to be kept informed of all that may be deemed by commanding officers as important, and commanding officers will keep themselves posted as to what is transpiring on their right and left.

Corps headquarters will be, after to-night, with headquarters Gregg’s division, until further orders.

By command of General Stoneman: