General Meade had called his corps commanders to his head-quarters for consultation. Sickles did not attend, deeming it of vital importance to prepare for the advance of the enemy, and his soldiers were levelling fences and removing obstructions.
A peremptory order reached Sickles requiring his presence. He rode to the head-quarters of the army, but the conference was over, and he went back to his command followed by General Meade.
"Are you not too much extended? Can you hold your front?" asked the Commander-in-Chief.
"Yes, only I shall want more troops."
"I will send you the Fifth Corps, and you may call on Hancock for support."
"I shall need more artillery."
"Send for all you want. Call on General Hunt of the Artillery Reserve. I will direct him to send you all you want."
The pickets were keeping up a lively fire.
"I think that the Rebels will soon make their appearance," said Sickles.
A moment later and the scattering fire became a volley. General Meade took another look at the troops in position, and galloped back to his head-quarters.