The intelligence on this subject being contradictory, and the face of the country well calculated to conceal the truth, he deemed it adviseable to ascertain the fact himself.
Sir Henry Clinton, soon after the rear division was in full march, received intelligence that an American column had appeared on his left flank.

This being a corps of militia was soon dispersed, and the march was continued.

When his rear guard had descended from the heights, he saw it followed by a strong corps, soon after which a cannonade was commenced upon it; and, at the same time, a respectable force showed itself on each of his flanks.

Suspecting a design on his baggage, he determined to attack the troops in his rear so vigorously, as to compel a recall of those on his flanks; and, for this purpose, marched back his whole rear division.

This movement was in progress as Lee advanced for the purpose of reconnoitring.