Burnside at this time was not under Meade's command, and was his senior in rank.

Getting information of the proximity of the enemy, I informed Meade, and without waiting to see Burnside, at once moved forward my headquarters to where Meade was.
It was my plan then, as it was on all other occasions, to take the initiative whenever the enemy could be drawn from his intrenchments if we were not intrenched ourselves.

Warren had not yet reached the point where he was to halt, when he discovered the enemy near by.

Neither party had any advantage of position.

Warren was, therefore, ordered to attack as soon as he could prepare for it.