It seemed possible therefore to entrap Floyd, and this was what Rosecrans determined to attempt.

Benham was ordered to take his brigade down the Kanawha and cross to the other side at the mouth of Loup Creek, five miles below.

Schenck was ordered to prepare wagon bodies as temporary boats, to make such flatboats as he could, and get ready to cross the New River at Townsend's Ferry, about fifteen miles above Gauley Bridge.

McCook was ordered to watch Miller's Ferry near his camp, and be prepared to make a dash on the short road to Fayette C.H.I was ordered to hold the post at Gauley Bridge, forward supplies by night, keep down the enemy's fire as far as possible, and watch for an opportunity to co-operate with Benham by way of Montgomery's Ferry.

[Footnote: Official Records, vol.v.