It was evident enough that he was either doing that or making a circuit to attack Howard.

To provide for the latter contingency the following order was issued: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC CHANCELLORSVILLE, Va., May 2, 1863, 9.30 A.M.
MAJOR-GENERAL SLOCUM AND MAJOR-GENERAL HOWARD: I am directed by the Major-General Commanding to say that the disposition you have made of your corps has been with a view to a front attack by the enemy.

If he should throw himself upon your flank, he wishes you to examine the ground and determine upon the positions you will take in that event, in order that you may be prepared for him in whatever direction he advances.

He suggests that you have heavy reserves well in hand to meet this contingency.
The right of your line does not appear to be strong enough.

No artificial defences worth naming have been thrown up, and there appears to be a scarcity of troops at that point, and not, in the General's opinion, as favorably posted as might be.
We have good reason to suppose that the enemy is moving to our right.