I therefore determined to push on and put my whole force between him and Richmond; and orders were at once issued for a movement by his right flank.

On the night of the 7th, the march was commenced towards Spottsylvania Court House, the fifth corps moving on the most direct road.

But the enemy having become apprised of our movement, and having the shorter line, was enabled to reach there first.
On the 8th, General Warren met a force of the enemy, which had been sent out to oppose and delay his advance, to gain time to fortify the line taken up at Spottsylvania.

This force was steadily driven back on the main force, within the recently constructed works, after considerable fighting, resulting in severe loss to both sides.

On the morning of the 9th, General Sheridan started on a raid against the enemy's lines of communication with Richmond.