Please refer to map of Harrisburg
Your forces are deployed south of the Bridgewater settlement, on the opposite side of the riverbank from Bridgewater its-self. You have been probing enemy positions in this area and are meeting stiff resistance, when pressed re-enforcements are being called up and your scouts and pickets are being forced back.
The enemy is determined that you do not get to collect detailed intelligence from this area – Capt Wellington J.Finch reports back.
“Gen’l, Sir, it’s hotter than heck there Sir. Ain’t seen those blue bellies fired up so much in months. They’s definitely expecting us and they don’t want to let us get a foothold across the river without a real fight”.
Further along the line, on your extreme right flank reports are that again pickets are out in force and that preparations are being made to make a stand.
Maj. Caleb Early reports back.
“Sir, heavy infantry pickets encountered all along the northern edge of the forest on our right flank. Road to Cross Keys is unprotected as far as we can make out”.
Both sets of scouts also report back that they are still trying to figure out exact enemy numbers, however, they have not seen anything yet to indicate that Hunter has been re-enforced since he left Staunton.
See notes about supply below.
Please refer to map of Harrisburg
Your Corps is deployed on the southern edge of the map and is ready for battle. Deployement is as suggested by Gen’l Early, your artillery reached you over-night and their location is left for you to determine as is the alignment of your brigades / regiments.
Gen’l EarlyPlease refer to map of Harrisburg
As ordered Ramseur’s division has remained in Staunton to guard against attack from Jennings Gap, Rodes’ division will arrive in place to support Beckinridge’s right flank mid morning. General Early himself has ridden ahead and is sharing Gen’l Beckinridge’s facilities until such time as his lead division is deployed.
General Rodes will be required to determine an order of march for his division.
Note: It is now clear why there were no supplies left in Staunton by the retiring Yanks, the place has been ravaged, there is nothing to sustain a regiment in the area let alone a Corps. All your troops have had to consume a unit of supply to maintain their body & souls and be able to fight this coming day.
