Horatio G. Wright to Ulysses S. Grant, July 11, 1864

The head of my column has nearly reached the front, and at the suggestion of Major-General McCook I have directed them to bivouac at Crystal Spring, about half a mile in rear. The enemy has been close to Fort Stevens, and, although driven back, is still not far distant. I believe it to be only a very light skirmish line, and with your permission will send a brigade out against it and try to clean it out. General McCook’s men are not as good as mine for this purpose. It seems from what I learn from General McCook that the line from the Potomac to the Eastern Branch is under the command of Colonels Warner and Haskin, while he commands the whole. I therefore hold myself in reserve, subject to General McCook’s orders.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,