WM. S. Hillyer to and. Aide-de-Oamp, September 18, 1862

In the Field, September 18, 1862.

Major-General ORD, Commanding Left Wing:

Following dispatch just received, which you will read early in the morning to the troops under your command :

CarRo, September 18, 1862. General GRANT:

The reports from Washington this evening contain intelligence of general sn ta ment on 16th near Sharpsburg, between rebel army under General Lee and Union forces. Hotly contested all day and renewed on morning of 17th, rebels having been re-enforced during the night by Jackson’s army and Union army by 30,000 men from Washington, and entire force on both sides engaged until 4 p. m., at which time Hooker gained position, flanked rebels, and threw them into disorder.

Longstreet and his entire division prisoners. General Hill killed. Entire rebel army of Virginia destroyed, Burnside having reoccupied Harper’s Ferry and cut off Tetreat.

General Hooker slightly wounded. Action very sanguinary. Requisitions for surgeons and hospital supplies larger than ever before.

Latest advices say entire rebel army must be captured or killed, as Potomac is rising and our forces pressing the enemy continually.

By command of Major-General Grant:

Colonel and. Aide-de-Oamp.