I make no criticism on this point.

He opposed the expedition.
By the 27th of April spring had so far advanced as to justify me in fixing a day for the great move.

On that day Burnside left Annapolis to occupy Meade's position between Bull Run and the Rappahannock.

Meade was notified and directed to bring his troops forward to his advance.
On the following day Butler was notified of my intended advance on the 4th of May, and he was directed to move the night of the same day and get as far up the James River as possible by daylight, and push on from there to accomplish the task given him.

He was also notified that reinforcements were being collected in Washington City, which would be forwarded to him should the enemy fall back into the trenches at Richmond.