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[335] and the enemy abandoned the entire position during the night, leaving all his sick and wounded in our hands. The enemy's loss yesterday was very severe.

We have three hundred uninjured prisoners and more than a thousand (rebel) prisoners wounded. Their loss in killed is heavy. The victory is complete. I have sent cavalry in pursuit, but the roads are in very bad condition. The conduct of our men has been excellent, with scarcely an exception. The enemy's works are very extensive and exceedingly strong, both in respect to their position and the works themselves.

Our loss is heavy in Hooker's division, but very little on other parts of the field. Hancock's success was gained with a loss of not more than twenty killed and wounded.

Am I authorized to follow the example of other generals, and direct the names of battles to be placed on colors of regiments? We have other battles to fight before reaching Richmond.

The weather is good to-day, but there is great difficulty in getting up food on account of the roads. Very few wagons have yet come up.

G. B. Mcclellan, Major-General Commanding.

headquarters army of the Potomac, Williamsburgh, May 6, 1862.
Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War:
Every hour proves our victory more complete. The enemy's loss is great, especially in officers. I have just heard of five more of their guns captured. Prisoners are constantly arriving.

G. B. McClellan, Major-General Commanding.


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