| Ashland, July 5, 1864 |
| |
| Major-General Elzey |
| Commanding Department, Richmond, Va. |
| |
| General, |
| I am directed by Colonel
Browne, commanding reconnaissance force, to report to you directly.
One hundred and twelve of the enemy's cavalry arrived here at 2
o'clock this morning, burnt the depot, woodhouse, water-tank, and
stationary engine, and slightly, but not materially, injured the
railroad track {of the Richmond,
Fredericksburg & Potomac RR}, and left in the direction of Hanover Court-House at
4 o'clock. The telegraph line is also cut here and the first culvert
below destroyed. I also learn that at South Anna bridge the enemy's
cavalry and infantry, at 8 o'clock yesterday evening, attacked our
forces, but were prevented from getting his artillery in position by
the admirable fire of our artillery, and were repulsed after four
hours, pursued by our cavalry. Enemy's force not known. It has since
been ascertained the whole force has returned across Neeman's
Bridge, in King
William
County. This information has been derived from Mr. Williams, an employé
on the railroad, who has visited the scene of the last fight. I have
been sent out by Colonel Browne as a scout to ascertain the position
of the enemy, and shall continue my efforts in the direction he has
gone. |
| I am, general, very respectfully, your
obedient servant, |
| W. F. Robbins |
| Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General |
|