The 27th of June was fixed as the day for the attempt, and in order to oversee the whole, and to be in close communication with all parts of the army, I had a place cleared on the top of a hill to the rear of Thomas's centre, and had the telegraph-wires laid to it.

The points of attack were chosen, and the troops were all prepared with as little demonstration as possible.

About 9 A.M.

Of the day appointed, the troops moved to the assault, and all along our lines for ten miles a furious fire of artillery and musketry was kept up.

At all points the enemy met us with determined courage and in great force.