General Getty, in command of one column of about seven thousand men, moved on the 13th as far as Hanover Junction to destroy the bridge over the North and South Anna, and as much of the railroad as possible, in order to make a break in Lee's communications.

At the same time General Keyes, with another column of about five thousand men, moved from the White House to secure Bottom's Bridge on the Chickahominy, and thus leave a clear road for Getty's column to advance on the city.
The Davis Government, however, called out the militia and concentrated enough men for defence by weakening the garrisons in South Carolina and elsewhere; but there is no doubt the fright at one time was so serious that it was in contemplation to recall Lee's forces; especially on the 15th of June, when it was learned that General Keyes' column was at New Kent Court House within fifteen miles of the city.
On the 16th Stuart's cavalry left the Rappahannock--with the exception of the 15th Virginia, which remained with Hill--and bivouacked at Salem with Fitz Lee's brigade at Piedmont.

Their orders were to keep along the eastern base of the Blue Ridge, and guard the front of Longstreet's corps in the Gaps.
Our own cavalry were concentrated at Warrenton and Catlett's.
On the 17th Fitz Lee's brigade was sent forward from Piedmont to Aldie, via Middleburg, to anticipate our troops in holding the Gap there; it being considered important to occupy the Bull Run range of mountains as a screen for Lee's further operations.

Fitz Lee's brigade was supported by that of Robertson which was moved to Rectortown, where it was also available as a reserve to W.H.F.
Lee's brigade which had gone forward to occupy Thoroughfare Gap.
No opposition was anticipated in the latter place, Pleasonton having moved to Centreville, with his main body.

Stuart made his headquarters at Middleburg on the 17th.
Fitz Lee halted near Dover to close up his command, and sent his pickets on to Aldie Gap.