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HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD,
May 25, 1864--7.30 a.m. (Received 5 p.m.)
Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, lately promoted, made, with cavalry, infantry, and
artillery, an attack upon my post at Wilson's Wharf, north side of James River,
below Fort Powhatan, garrisoned by two regiments, all negro troops,
Brigadier-General Wild commanding, and was handsomely repulsed. Before the
attack Lee sent a flag, stating he had force enough to take the place, demanded
its surrender, and in that case the garrison should be turned over to the
authorities at Richmond as prisoners of war, but if this proposition was
rejected he would not be answerable for consequences when he took the place.
General Wild replied, "We will try that." Re-enforcements were at once sent, but
fight was over before their arrival. Loss not yet reported. Dispatch relating to
Lee being over South Anna received. Will be ready to move on the instant.
BENJ. F. BUTLER,
Major-general, Commanding.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
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