[from the dispatch book of General Alfred Pleasonton]
 Hd.Qrs. Cav. Brigade
Purcellville, Oct 31, 4 a.m.

To General Bayard
   Commanding Cavalry
        Philomont–

General-
       I have just recd
a dispatch from Gen.
McClellan’s Hd.Qrs, directing
that no attack be made
upon the enemy at
Snickers Gap until
further orders from those
Hd.Qrs,  I presume these
orders will be communicated
to you–This order renders
my consultation in reference
to a reconnaissance un-
necessary as I am
directer to perform
other duties in the

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the same order–
   I am, General, very respectfully
          Your obt Serv’t
                A. Pleasonton
                   Brig General
                   Comdg. Cav. Brigade

MSS 495