He was a Pennsylvanian, and, inflamed at seeing the devastation of his native State, was most desirous of getting at the enemy as soon as possible.

I speak from my own knowledge, for I was his second in command, and he told me at Poolesville soon after crossing the river, that it was necessary to attack the enemy at once, to prevent his plundering the whole State.

As he had great confidence in his men, it was not difficult to divine what his decision would be.

He determined to advance and hold Gettysburg.

He directed the Eleventh Corps to come up as a support to the First, and he recommended, but did not order, the Third Corps to do the same.
Buford, with two of his cavalry brigades, reached the place that night, but not without considerable difficulty.