March 18, 1864 (Tuesday): Meade Prepares For The Spring

General Winfield Scott Hancock

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
March 18, 1864-11 a. m. (Received 11. 30 a. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Chief of Staff:
    There appears to be doubt, from the reports of scouts, that a detachment, strength unknown, has recently been from Lee's army to Richmond. It would also appear that Longstreet has been present at Orange Court-House within a few days past, though there is no indication of any of his forces having reached there. It is further reported that Early's command has either returned or is now returning to the main army. Furloughs are still being given in Lee's army, and no other changes than those above reported noted. I am very anxious this army should be put in condition to move. Preliminary to this I consider of the utmost importance the reorganization, and this cannot well be executed till the return of Major-General Hancock, who has not yet reported. I called the attention of the honorable Secretary of War to this point on the 14th instant, and beg his attention may again be called to it.


     GEO. G. MEADE,
     Major-General, Commanding.

Official Record, Series I., Vol. 33, Part 1, Page 688.

Hancock had been wounded at Gettysburg and spent the winter on a recruiting tour.  Meade was afraid Longstreet would return to Lee's Army and wanted to be in position to either move or meet whatever threat the Army of Northern Virginia posed.