where a portion of the army remained for a time, while the advance guards pushed on to the Ohickahominy River, and established headquarters at Bottom's Bridge—its further progress being impeded by the destruction of the bridge by the rebels.
"The position of the troops were as follows Stoneman's advance-guard one mile from New Bridge; Franklin's corps three miles from New Bridge, with Porter's corps in advancing distance in its rear; Sumner's corps on the railroad, about three miles from the Chickahominy, connecting the right with the left; Keyes' on New Kent road, near Bottom's Bridge, with Heintzelman's corps at supporting distance in its rear„" The ford was in possession of the federal troops, and a reconstruction of the bridge was immediately commenced.
On the 24th of May the two following despatches were received by Gen. McClellan from the President: "I wish you to move cautiously and safely. You will have command of McDowell precisely as you indicated in your despatch to us."
"In consequence of Gen. Banks' critical position, I have been compelled to suspend Gen. McDowell's movement to join you. The enemy are making a desperate push upon Harper's Ferry^ and we are trying to throw Gen. Fremont's force, ;aid part of Gen. McDowell's, in their rear!"
On the 25th, the President also sent the follow
