John Buford to Benjamin F. Kelley, September 27, 1863

Brig. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Commanding Department:

Thirty-five rebels camped on Middle Ridge, about 3 miles west of here, last night. They are on their way to the pike. I am trying to catch them. Jenkins was on the move yesterday, 11 a. m., from Crab Bottom toward the pike. A rebel scout told his sister at Huttonsville, night before last, that this post would be attacked within four days. I have good scouts on the road. Have captured two of enemy’s scouts, one other wounded and captured. If line remains open, you had better send anything er a in cipher.

M. W. AVERELL, Brigadier-General.

Hopgrs. First Cav. Div., ARMY OF THE Potomac, September 28, 1863. Col. C. Ross SmiruH, Chief of Staff:

I have the honor to report all quiet to-day along the whole length of my picket line, extending from Morton’s Ford to the Lacy House. At Morton’s the rebels have a large infantry picket, and they are digging like beavers at Germanna. They have thrown up nine earth-works and have them connected, and are still intrenching. A few miles below Fredericksburg they cross at will in small boats.

Car, XLI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—UNION.

Last night a small party crossed to this side at Germanna and went back.

The Prince William company of cavalry is fully mounted, and when last heard from were at Stafford Court-House.

I send two Richmond papers.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,