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CAMP OPPOSITE FREDERICKSBURG, VA.,
December 17, 1862.

LIEUTENANT: In compliance with circular from brigade headquarters, I have the honor to submit the following:

On the morning of the 12th, the regiment was under arms at 7 o'clock, and, taking place in brigade line, marched to the river, which it crossed late in the afternoon, and bivouacked for the night in the city.

On the morning of the 13th proceeded to the bank of the river, where we remained till dusk, when the brigade advanced beyond the city to the support of the First Brigade, then engaged with the enemy. Lying on our arms during the night, the next morning (the 14th returned to the city. At 4.30 o'clock I received orders to relieve the One hundred <ar31_352> and third New York, supporting batteries; also to picket the railroad as far as the creek, which, as soon as sufficiently dark, I proceeded to do, occupying the blockhouse on the south side of the creek.

The next morning, observing that we were exposed to the fire of skirmishers or sharpshooters, advancing on our left, I reported the fact, and the Eighth Connecticut Volunteers was immediately sent to extend and strengthen the line. At 8 p.m. I was relieved by the Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, and soon after recrossed the river with the brigade, arriving in camp about 11 p.m.(*)

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

CHAS. L. UPHAM,

Captain, Commanding Sixteenth Connecticut Volunteers.

Lieut. H. P. GATES,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Brigade.