From our camp, at Centreville, we heard the cannonading, and then a sharp musketry-fire.

I received orders from General Tyler to send forward Ayres's battery, and very soon after another order came for me to advance with my whole brigade.

We marched the three miles at the double-quick, arrived in time to relieve Richardson's brigade, which was just drawing back from the ford, worsted, and stood for half an hour or so under a fire of artillery, which killed four or five of my men.

General Tyler was there in person, giving directions, and soon after he ordered us all back to our camp in Centreville.

This reconnoissance had developed a strong force, and had been made without the orders of General McDowell; however, it satisfied us that the enemy was in force on the other side of Bull Run, and had no intention to leave without a serious battle.