“Geddis was now ordered to move at once and hold this part of the line with his division of Warner's Corps against all force that might come against him. This was the breathless time during the day. Geddis took the position. Hiller moved against him, but Geddis held the point. Hanscom came up, but his corps was far away to his rear. It was nearly two o'clock before his troops came in sight, certainly none too soon. He at once formed on Geddis's left. There was but one spot, on account of the density of the forest, where artillery could be put in battery or used to any advantage. Here Hanscom put all his artillery. At 2:30 he received orders to attack Hiller at once in conjunction with Geddis, which he did. This compelled Hanscom to move two of his divisions in support of Geddis, Burns and Motley. The two lines had both approached until they were exceedingly close together. “The battle now commenced in great earnest on both sides, and was of a most destructive and deadly character. The musketry firing was continuous along the whole line. The remainder of Hanscom's Corps was ordered up and went into action, having no time for protecting themselves. Several desperate assaults were made by Hanscom and Geddis, but the enemy, having the cover of the chaparral, were able to inflict great damage on our forces. “Silent, learning that our forces could not dislodge the enemy, sent a force from Warner's left to relieve the troops who were so hotly engaged. Accordingly one division under Gen. Walworth and one brigade under Roberts were sent through the woods to the sound of battle. But they could not see fifty yards before them on account of the underbrush. The roar of the battle was like a continuous peal of thunder. Gen. Walworth tried to penetrate the thick woods to relieve his comrades, but did not arrive until nightfall. “Sedgewear had now taken position on the right of Warner, and both of their corps had been engaged during the afternoon. Sherlin had struck the rebel cavalry near Ford's House and driven them back. He now held the country to the left of Hanscom on the road to Spottsyl-vania. The night had closed in and the two armies rested facing each other. The killed, wounded and dying were strewn between the lines like leaves.