Wesley Merritt to BurorpD, November 6, 1863

November 6, 1863. General BurorpD:

My pickets yesterday reported the enemy across the river above Kelly’s Ford. A staff officer I sent out by Payne’s house from here found the enemy’s pickets there, but not in force, only a few vedettes.

This morning the enemy crossed above Kelly’s Ford (near Wheatley’s, I believe) and drove my pickets at Kelly’s in. The report I get from my pickets is very indefinite. The number of the enemy is not reported, nor is it stated how far my pickets were driven. Captain Feilner, at Morrisville, with the reserve of the regiment (the First Cavalry) re-enforced Sumner, but whether he regained his former position or not is not stated. The enemy are on this side the river. My pickets on Hartwood Church road report that Kilpatrick returned toward Warrenton Junction yesterday morning. I have nothing further in regard to the enemy’s movement down the river. The enemy hold this side of the river all the way from Rappahannock Bridge to below Kelly’s Ford now.

I sent all my wagons for supplies this morning to Warrenton Junction. I have sent to front for more definite reports, and will send them in as soon as received.

Very respectfully,