His instructions were embraced in the following dispatches to Major-General H.W.Halleck, chief of staff of the army: "NEAR SPOTTSYLVANIA COURT HOUSE, VA.

"May 20, 1864.
* * * * * * * "The enemy are evidently relying for supplies greatly on such as are brought over the branch road running through Staunton.

On the whole, therefore, I think it would be better for General Hunter to move in that direction; reach Staunton and Gordonsville or Charlottesville, if he does not meet too much opposition.

If he can hold at bay a force equal to his own, he will be doing good service.

* * * "U.