Joseph Hooker to Jos. Dickinson, December 15, 1862

Major-General Couch is assigned to the charge of the defense of Fredericksburg from Hanover street east, and Brigadier-General Butterfield from Hanover street to tue Rappahannock, on the west. For this service Brigadier-General Whipple’s command is temporarily assigned to that of Brigadier-General Butterfield, and General Whipple will report accordingly. =

Generals Couch and Butterfield will make their dispositions for this service as soon as the change in the position of the troops can be made without unnecessary exposure of their respective commands.

In posting the pickets, supports, and reserves, these officers are enjoined to consider both the defense of the city and the security of those who are within it. They will hold their commands well in hand, and, if there are absentees, will send out patrols to search the streets and houses for them. It is necessary that every officer and soldier should be at his post. Generals Couch and Butterfield are also requested to have all of the streets of the city kept open for rapid comimunication, and also the bridges connecting the city with the opposite shore.

By command of Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker :