Gen. W. S. Hancock proceeded to attack the
Confederates in front of
Deep Bottom on the
James River, Aug. 12, 1864.
His whole force was placed on transports at
City Point, and its destination reported to be
Washington.
This was to deceive the
Confederates.
That night it went up the
James River; but so tardy was the debarkation that the intended surprise of the
Confederates was not effected.
Hancock pushed some of his troops by
Malvern Hill to flank the
Confederates' defence behind
Baylis's Creek, while 10,000 men were sent, under
Gen. F. C. Barlow, to assail their flank and rear.
There were other dispositions for attack; but the delay had allowed
Lee to send reinforcements, for the movement seemed to threaten
Richmond.
On the morning of the 16th,
General Birney, with
General Terry's division, attacked and carried the
Confederate lines, and captured 300 men. The Confederates soon rallied and drove him back.
Another part of the attacking force was driven back, and the attempt failed.