Jul. Stahel to Daniel Butterfield, June 21, 1863

Major-General BUTTERFIELD, Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

I can use more artillery in the works at this place than Inow have. Ithink more is necessary for a strong defense. If some of the reserve could be sent here, it could be moved without delay across the river, or wherever needed. I think the holding of this position secures to us all the fords below us, including Edwards Merry: and that the place should be held at all hazards.

H. W. SLOCUM, Major-General.

Sanpy Hook, June 21, 1863—8 p. m. (Copy received, War Department 9.40 p. m.)

Major-Generals HookEeR and SCHENCK:

The following just received from signal officer :

SIGNAL STATION, June 21, 1863—7 p. m.

Sir: In front of the camp, this side of Sharpsburg, about three regiments, as near as I can judge, have stacked arms in line, and are standing by them in line. Teams are all hitched up as far as Ican see. More than usual smoke is rising in all their camps. Ican see the camp quite plain, and they appear larger than at noon. A great stir is visible among them.

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

MARYLAND HeEtIGuts, Mp., June 21, 1863—9.40 p. m.

Major-Generals Hooker and SCHENCK : Copy of signal officer’s report just made:

The enemy’s cavalry are driving off cattle across the river opposite or west of here. I can see an encampment at or near Kearneysville. Smoke is rising in that

250 N. 0., V. A., W. V. A., M. D., P. A., ETC. [Cuar, XXXIX,

vicinity. A line of smoke is rising across and near the river about 5 miles above here. Large fires are being made at the camps you saw to-day near Sharpsburg. A small camp can also be seen about 5 miles south and east of Point of Rocks, on this side of Catoctin Ridge. Two signal officers were captured at South Mountain

yesterday. DAN. TYLER, Brigadier-General.

June 21, 1863—10.30 p. m. Major-General BUTTERFIELD, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

I arrived here at dark. My advance is half way from here to New Baltimore. I have reports that Hampton’s brigade is at New Baltimore, of which I am certain ; also reported that infantry and artiller arethere. I have scouting parties out in all directions. I will attac the enemy to-morrow morning. Please inform me whether my scouting party has returned from Dumfries and Brentsville.

I would beg to be informed how the fight of to-day resulted.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,