This shows that even early in the morning of the 8th Lee had not yet become acquainted with my move, but still thought that the Army of the Potomac had gone to Fredericksburg.
Indeed, he informed the authorities at Richmond he had possession of Spottsylvania and was on my flank.

Anderson was in possession of Spottsylvania, through no foresight of Lee, however.

Early only found that he had been following us when he ran against Hancock at Todd's Tavern.

His coming detained Hancock from the battle-field of Spottsylvania for that day; but he, in like manner, kept Early back and forced him to move by another route.
Had I ordered the movement for the night of the 7th by my left flank, it would have put Hancock in the lead.

It would also have given us an hour or earlier start.