Attempt to cross the Rapidan — the enemy driven back.
Yesterday morning a report was received by the Central cars that Meade's army had crossed the Rapidan river at Morton's, Somerville, and Raccoon Fords in large force.--This report subsequently proved untrue. By the train yesterday evening we get the following facts of the affair, which gave rise, doubtless, to the report mentioned:On Sunday morning about daylight the enemy appeared in large force at Morton's Ford and commenced crossing. They crossed a considerable body of men and then stopped. As they apparently intended to send over no more just then, our forces attacked those already across, and after a short fight drove them back to the other side.--The affair was a short and almost bloodless one, our loss being reported at one killed and three wounded. It was of such short duration that the troops engaged in it were back in their old camp by 4 o'clock P. M., preparing supper.
At the same time that the demonstration was made at Morton's Ford the enemy appeared at Raccoon Ford and planted a battery. A brisk fire was opened, which was replied to by the Confederates, and in a short time the fire from the other side of the river ceased.
Five or six prisoners, captured in the skirmish at Morton's Ford, were brought down on the Central train last night. They speak of Meade's army having been much strengthened, and say that he has a "big lot" of men with him.
Up to 11 o'clock yesterday there had been no renewal of the attempt to cross by the Yankees and no further fighting.
