army, and, as I had not intended to deliver battle, I directed our
cavalry to retire slowly before them and to check their too rapid
pursuit. Finding, later in the day, that their army was not following,
I ordered out the infantry and drove them back to the river. I suppose
they intended to push on to Richmond by this or some other route. I
trust, however, they will never reach there...."

On August 23d, from the camp near Orange Court House, General Lee
writes to Mrs. Lee:

"...My camp is near Mr. Erasmus Taylor's house, who has been very kind
in contributing to our comfort. His wife sends us every day,
buttermilk, loaf bread, ice, and such vegetables as she has. I cannot
get her to desist, thought I have made two special visits to that
effect. All the brides have come on a visit to the army: Mrs. Ewell,
Mrs. Walker, Mrs. Heth, etc. General Meade's army is north of the
Rappahannock along the Orange and Alexandria Railroad. He is very
quiet...."

"September 4, 1863.

"...You see I am still here. When I wrote last, the indications were
that the enemy would move against us any day; but this past week he
has been very quiet, and seems at present to continue so. I was
out looking at him yesterday, from Clarke's Mountain. He has spread
himself over a large surface and looks immense...."

And on September 18th, from the same camp:

"...The enemy state that they have heard of a great reduction in our