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On the morning of the third of July, at day-light, the batteries of the First corps were all in position, extending from Hood, in front of the "Round Top," to and beyond the peach orchard. At this point General Longstreet sent for me, accompanied by Adjutant Owen. I rode to the rear of the line, where we found Gen. Longstreet in consultation with the general officers. He gave me then my final instructions, and informed me of the plan of battle. At a given signal, to be arranged by myself, all the guns on the line were to open simultaneously on the enemy's batteries. The signal fixed was two guns in quick succession by the Washington Artillery. Upon returning to the front I dispatched Adjutant Owen along the entire line, to notify each of the artillery commanders, and to give them their orders, which he did and returned to me.

It was understood that Colonel Alexander had been charged with the duty of observing the effect of the fire of the batteries upon the enemy's lines, and to give the signal for General Pickett to advance to the assault.

Everything was in readiness—no firing on either side—when, at a few minutes after one o'clock, P. M., while in rear of the Washington Artillery, near the peach orchard, I received by a courier, the following in General Longstreet's hand-writing.