Unknown to A. J. Cohen, August 20, 1863

Capt. A. J. COHEN, Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps:

CaPpTaINn : I have the honor to report the following, received from my picket line up to2p. m.:

Opposite Falmouth the enemy’s picket line has been much weakened during the night, but few encampments can be seen in that vicinity, and everything indicates a movement of the enemy in some direction—I think to my right. General Custer reports a long column of dust, some 4 miles in length, moving inthe rear of Fredericksburg, and a complete silence is kept by their men on picket. Near United States Ford the enemy have a few pieces of artillery in position, and a large body of cavalry were reported near this ford this morning. From the latest I can gather, this cavalry force is moving to my right. It is believed by the pugny that our army is retiring upon Centreville and Alexandria. All the fords along my river front are well guarded.

Very respectfully,