From the Richmond Whig, 4/18/1865, p. 8, c. 1

LEE’S ORDER TO EWELL TO EVACUATE RICHMOND.

The following copy of Gen. Lee’s order to Gen. Ewell, in relation to the evacuation of Richmond, was found on the body of Col. Crutchfield, who was killed in the fight at Sailor’s Creek on Thursday, the 6th instant:

PETERSBURG, 2d April, 1865.

General Ewell:

Move your command to the south side of James river to-night, crossing on bridges at and below Richmond; take the road with your troops to Branch Church, via Genito bridge, to Amelia Court-House. All wagons from Richmond will take the Manchester pike and Buckingham road, via Meddersville, to Amelia Court-House. The movement will commence at 8 o’clock – the artillery moving out first quickly, infantry following, except pickets, who will be withdrawn at 3 o’clock. Gen. Stevens will indicate routes to you and furnish guides. The cavalry must follow, destroying bridges under the superintendence of the engineer officers. The artillery not needed by the troops will take the road prescribed for the wagons, or such other as may be most convenient.

W. H. TAYLOR.

Official – R. CLEARY, A. A. Gen.

INSTRUCTIONS TO COL. CRUTCHFIELD.

Colonel: The Major General commanding directs that you at once move out by the right flank along the nearest road to Wilton bridge. You will cross it, march a sufficient distance to allow for the whole division on the other side of the road. If practicable, I will send an engineer officer to guide you – As soon as you commence moving notify me.
I am, Colonel, very respectfully,

Your obedient servant,
R. CREARY, A. A. G.

Col. S. CRUTCHFIELD, Com’g Div.

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