But we could do nothing where we were unless Lee would assume the offensive.

I determined, therefore, to draw out of our present position and make one more effort to get between him and Richmond.

I had no expectation now, however, of succeeding in this; but I did expect to hold him far enough west to enable me to reach the James River high up.

Sheridan was now again with the Army of the Potomac.
On the 26th I informed the government at Washington of the position of the two armies; of the reinforcements the enemy had received; of the move I proposed to make (*32); and directed that our base of supplies should be shifted to White House, on the Pamunkey.

The wagon train and guards moved directly from Port Royal to White House.