His conduct on the field was marked by conspicuous gallantry as well as the display of qualities of a higher order than that of mere personal daring.

This might well have been expected of one who could write at the time he is said to have done so: "Any officer fit for duty who at this crisis would abandon his post to electioneer for a seat in Congress, ought to be scalped." Having entered the army as a Major of Volunteers at the beginning of the war, General Hayes attained by meritorious service the rank of Brevet Major-General before its close.
On the north side of the James River the enemy attacked Kautz's cavalry on the 7th of October, and drove it back with heavy loss in killed, wounded and prisoners, and the loss of all the artillery.

This was followed up by an attack on our intrenched infantry line, but was repulsed with severe slaughter.

On the 13th a reconnoissance was sent out by General Butler, with a view to drive the enemy from some new works he was constructing, which resulted in heavy loss to us.
On the 24th I ordered General Meade to attempt to get possession of the South Side Railroad, and for that purpose to advance on the 27th.

The attempt proved a failure, however, the most advanced of our troops not getting nearer than within six miles of the point aimed for.