HDQRS. FIRST Brigadier, SECOND DIV., FIFTH ARMY CORPS,
May 9, 1863.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make a brief report of the part taken by this brigade during the recent operations of this army, extending over a space of ten days.

The command broke camp at 10 a.m. on the 27th ultimo, and encamped for the night near Hartwood Church.

The next day marched to within 3 miles of Kelly's Ford.

Crossed the Rappahannock on the 29th, forded Mountain Creek and the Rapidan, and bivouacked at about 9 p.m. on the right bank, near Fly's Ford.

On the 30th, made a reconnaissance to the United States Ford, and encamped near the Chancellor house.

On May 1, took the Fredericksburg pike, and shortly afterward came upon the enemy, who fell back before us about 1 1/2 miles. On this occasion the command advanced in gallant style, and the line of battle was formed at the double-quick. The object of the forward movement being accomplished, the command was withdrawn, retiring in line of battle and taking up a position parallel to the pike. The enemy appearing on the Plank road, leading across our front, the brigade deployed in line of battle with great promptitude, remaining in that position during the night.

Next day took up a position on a road leading to Scott's Mills, cutting an abatis and remaining in that position until dark; then moved on the pike, and took a position across the road and facing the ford.

Toward morning of the 3rd, moved down the pike, taking a position parallel to it, having the First Corps on our right. Here a strong abatis was cut and a breastwork of earth and logs constructed. In this position the command remained until the morning of the 6th, when it was withdrawn, crossing the Rappahannock at the United States Ford, and reaching the old camp ground about 5 p.m.

The conduct of both officers and men, whether on the march, advancing on the enemy, retiring, or lying in line of battle, has been such as to inspire the greatest confidence. The regimental commanders, Major R. S. Smith, Twelfth Infantry; Captain John D. Wilkins, Third Infantry; Captain Hiram Dryer, Fourth Infantry, and Captain J. B. Hager, Fourteenth Infantry, gave me their hearty support. A wish had only to be expressed and the thing was done. For the details of the operations of each regiment, and the casualties, I refer you to the reports of the regimental commanders, herewith inclosed.

I return my thanks, for assistance rendered, to Captain J. M. Locke, acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieuts. John M. Brown and J. A. Sayles, of my personal staff; also to First Lieutenant R. C. Parker, Twelfth Infantry, acting assistant inspector-general.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. B. AYRES,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Captain RYAN,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.