Warren was not aware of his presence, but probably supposed it was the cavalry which Merritt had engaged earlier in the day.

He assaulted at once, but was repulsed.

He soon organized his men, as they were not pursued by the enemy, and made a second attack, this time with his whole corps.

This time he succeeded in gaining a position immediately in the enemy's front, where he intrenched.

His right and left divisions--the former Crawford's, the latter Wadsworth's, now commanded by Cutler--drove the enemy back some distance.
At this time my headquarters had been advanced to Piney Branch Church.
I was anxious to crush Anderson before Lee could get a force to his support.