TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 11 (Part III) AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1884 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B Title Page Page 1 TIlE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL IRECOIIRDS - OFTHE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPAHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY BYT. LIEUT. COL. ROBERT N. SCOTT, THIRD U. S. ARTILLRRY, AND PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO ACT OF CONGRESS APPROVED JUNE 16, 1880. SERIES IVOLUME XIIN THREE PARTS. PART 111.CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1884 Page 2 A~/27~6 UNhIERSJTY LiE~RARv Page 3 PART 111.VOL. XI. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND. RETURNS RELATING TO THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VIRGINIA, FROM MARCH 17 TO SEPTEMBER 2, 1862. UNION C(YRRESPONDENOE, ETC. HEADQUARTERS DrvIsIoN OF THE PoTo~tAc, Wa8hington, Augu8t 8, 1861. Lieut. Gen. WINFIELD SCOTT, Cornma~ding U. S. Army: GENERAL: Information from various sources reaching me to-day, through spies, letters, and telegrams, confirm my impressions, derived from previous advices, that the enemy intend attacking our positions on the other side of the river, as well as to cross the Potomac north of us. I have also received a telegram from a reliable agent just from Knoxville, Teun., that large re-enforcements are still passing through there to Richmond. I am induced to believe that the enemy has at least 100,000 men in front of us. Were I in Beauregards place, with that force at my disposal, I would attack the positions on the other side of the Potomac, and at the same time cross the river above this city in force. I feel confident that our present army in this vicinity is entirely insufficient for the emergency, and it is deficient in all the arms of the serviceinfantry, artillery, and cavalry. I therefore respectfully and most earnestly urge that the gar- risons of all places in our rear be reduced at once to the minimum abso- lutely necessary to hold them, and that all the troops thus made avail- able be forthwith forwarded to this city; that every company of regular artillery within reach be immediately ordered here to be mounted; that every possible means be used to expedite the forwarding of new regi- ments of volunteers to this capital without one hours delay. I urge that nothing be left undone to bring up our force for the defense of this city to 100,000 men, before attending to any other point. I advise that at least eight or ten good Ohio and Indiana regiments may be telegraphed for from Western Virginia, their places to be filled at once by the new troops from the same States, who will be at least reliable to fight be- hind the intrenchments which have been constructed there. The vital importance of rendering Washington at once perfectly se- cure and its imminent danger impel me to urge these requests with the utmost earnestness, and that not an hour be lost in carrying them into execution. A sense of duty which I cannot resist compels me to state that in my opinion military necessity demands that the Departments of North- * The communications following, dated August 8, 1861March 3,1862, were received too late for publicationin Vol. V of this serie& 1 B BVOL XI~ PT III Page 4 4 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. XXIII. eastern Virginia, Washington, the Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, including Baltimore, and the one including Fort Monroe~ should be merged into one department, under the immediate control of the commander of the main army of operations, and which should be known and designated as such.* Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, August 9, 1861. To the Hon. the SECRETARY OF WAR: SIR: I received yesterday from Major-General McClellan a letter of that date, to which I design this as my only reply. Had Major-General McClellan presented. the same views in person, they would have been freely entertained and discussed. All my mili- tary views and opinions had been so presented to him, without eliciting much remark, in our few meetings, which I have in vain sought to multiply. He has stood on his guard, and now places himself on record. Let him make the most of his unenvied advantages. Major-General McClellan has propagated in high quarters the idea expressed in the letter before- me, that Washington was not only ~~insecure,~~ but in imminent danger. Relying on our numbers, our forts, and the Potomac River, I am confident in the opposite opinion; and considering the stream of new regiments that is ~)ouring in upon us (before this alarm could have reached their homes), I have not the slightest apprehensipn for the safety of the Government here. Having now been long unable to mount a horse, or to walk more thami a few paces at a time, and consequently being unable to review troops, much less to direct them in battlein short, being broken down by many particular hurts, besides the general infirmities of ageI feel that I have become an incumbrance to the Army as well as to myself; and that I ought, giving way to a younger commander, to seek the palliatives of physical pain and exhaustion. Accordingly, I must beg the President, at the earliest moment, to allow me to be placed on the officers retired list, and then quietly to lay myself upprobably foreversomewhere in or about New York. But, wherever I may spend my little remainder of life, my frequent and latest prayer will be, God saxe the Union. I have the honor to be, sir, with high respect, your obedient servant, WINFIELD SCOTT. WASHINGTON, August 10, 1861. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: SIR: The letter addressed by me under date of the 8th instant to Lieutenant General Scott, commanding the U. S. Army, was designed to be a plain and respectful expression of my views of the measures demanded for the safety of the Government in the imminent peril that besets it at the present hour. Every moments reflection and every fact transpiring convinced me of the urgent necessity of the measures See reference to this letter in Series I, Vol. V, p. 9 Page 5 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 5 there indicated, and I felt it my duty to him and to the country to com- municate them frankly. It is therefore with great pain that I have learned from you this morning that my views do not meet with the ap- probation of the Lieutenant-General, and that my letter is unfavorably regarded by him. The command with which I am in trusted was not sought by me, and has only been accepted from an earnest and humble desire to serve my country in the moment of the most extreme peril. With these views I am willing to do and suffer whatever may be required for that service. Nothing could be further from niy wishes than to seek any command or urge any measures not required for the exigency of the occasion,~and, above all, I would abstain from any conduct that could give offense to General Scott or embarrass the President or any department of the Government. Influenced by these considerations, I yield to your re- quest and withdraw the letter referred to. The Government and my superior officer being apprised of what I consider to be necessary and proper for the defense of the national capital, I shall strive faithfully and zealously to employ the means that may be placed in my power for that purpose, dismissing every personal feeling or consideration, and praying only the blessing of Divine Provi- dence on my efforts. I will only add that a-~ you requested my authority to withdraw the letter, that authority is hereby given, with the most profound assurance for General Scott and yourself.* Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. McCLELLAN. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, August 12, 1861. The Hon. the SECRETARY OF WAR: SIR: On the 10th instant I was kindly requested by the President to withdraw my letter to you of the 9th, in reply to one I had received from Major-General McClellan of the day before; the President, at the same time, showing inc a letter to him from General McClellan, in which, at thc instance of the President, he offered to withdraw the original letter on which I had animadverted. While the President was yet with me on that occasion a servant handed me a letter, which proved to be an unauthenticated copy, under a blank cover, of the same letter from General McC. to the President. This slight was not without its influence on my mind. The Presidents visit, however, was for the patriotic purpose of heal- ing differences, and so much did I honor his motive, that I deemed it due to him to hold his proposition under consideration for some little time. I deeply regret that, notwithstanding my respect for the opinions and wishes of the President, I cannot withdraw the letter in question, for these reasons: 1. The original offense given to me by Major-G-eneral McClellan (see his letter of the 8th instant) seems to have been the result of delibera- tion between him and some of the members of the Cabinet, by whom all the greater war questions are to be settled, without resort to or consultation with me, the nominal General-in-Chief of the Army. In See referenee to this letter in Series I, Vol. V, p. 9 Page 6 6 THE P~NINS1JLAR CAMPAIGN, VA. OnAr. XXIII. further proof of this neglectalthough it is unofficially known that in the last week (or six days) many regiments have arrived and others have changed their positions; some to a considerable distancenot one of these movements has been reported to me (or anything else) by Major-General McClellan; while it is believed, and I may add known, that he is in frequent communication with portions of the Cabinet and on matters appertaining to me. That freedom of access and consulta- tion have, very naturally, deluded the junior general into a feeling of indifference toward his senior. 2. With such supports on his part, it would be as idle for me as it would be against the dignity of my years, to be filing daily complaints against an ambitious junior, who, independent of the extrinsic advan- tages alluded to, has, unquestionably, very high qualifications for mili- tary command. I trust they may achieve crowning victories in behalf of the Union. 3. I have in my letter to you of the 9th instant already said enough on theto othersdisgusting subject of my many physical infirmities. I will here only add that, borne down as I am by them, I should una- voidably be in the way at headquarters, even if my abilities for war were now greater than when I was young. I have the honor to be, sir, with high respect, your most obedient servant, WII{FIELD SCOTT. WASHINGTON, December 10, 1861. YOUR EXCELLENCY: I inclose the paper you left with me, filled as you requested.* In arriving at the numbers given I have left the min- imum number in garrison and observation. Information received recently leads me to believe that the enemy could meet us in front with equal forces nearly, and I have now my mind actively turned toward another plan of campaign that I do not think at all anticipated by the enemy nor by many of our own people. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. McCLELLAI~, Major- General. (Inclosure.] If it were determined to make a forward movement of the Army of the Potomac without awaiting further increase of numbers or better drill and discipline, how long would it require to actually get in mo- tion I If bridge trains ready by December 15, probably 25. After leaving all that would be necessary, how many troops could join the movement from southwest of the river? Seventy-one thousand. How many from northeast of it? Thirty-three thousand. Suppose, then, that of those southwest of the river 50,000 move for- ward and menace the enemy at Centreville. The remainder of the movable force on that side move rapidly to the crQssing of the Occoquan * In the inclosure the Roman type indicates President Lincolns handwriting and the Italics General McClellans Page 7 CHAP. XXIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 7 by the road from Alexandria to Richmond, there to be joined by the whole movable force from northeast of the river, having landed from the Potomac, just below the mouth of the Occoquan, moved by land up the south side of that stream to the crossing point named, then the whole move together by the road thence to Brentsville and beyond to the railroad just south of its crossing of Broad Run, a strong detach- ment of cavalry having gone rapidly ahead to destroy the railroad bridges south and north of the point. If the crossing of the Occoquan by those from above be resisted, those landing from the Potomac below to take the resisting force of the en- emy in rear, or, if the landing from the Potomac be resisted, those cross- ing the Occoquan from above to take that resisting force in the rear. Both points will probably not be sncce~sftilly resisted at the same time. The force in front of Centreville, if pressed too hardly, should fight back slowly into the intrenchments behind them. Armed vessels and transportation should remain at the Potomac land- ing to cover a possible retreat. (Indor8oment.] Memoranda of the President on campaign of Potomac, without date, but about December 1, 1861; and letter of General McClellan dated December 10, 1861. WASHINGTON, March 3, 1862. Maj. Geti. H. W. HALLECK, ,S~aint Louis: M~ DEAR HALLECK: Yours of the 24th~ arrived while I was np the river. I went there to superintend the passage of the river and decide as to the ulterior movements of the troops. The passage was a very difficult one, but the Engineer troops under Duane did wonders. I found it iiipossible to supply a large body of troops without first estab- lishing depots on the Virginia side, which we are rapidly doing. So I contented myself for the present with occupying Charlestown, & c., in order to cover the reopening of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. I have also occupied Martinsburg, and will to-morrow throw out a strong force to Bunker Hill. We are thus in position to attack Winchester as soon as our supl)lies are collected. I hope to open the Potomac this week, provided the weather permits. It will require a movement of the whole army in order to keep Manassas off~ my back. I cannot count upon any effective co-operation on the part of the Navy. As soon as I have cleared the Potomac I shall bring here the water transportation now ready (at least it will be in four or five (lays), and then move by detachments of about 55,000 men for the region of sandy roads and short land transportation. When you have asked for 50,000 men from here, my dear fellow, yon have made one of two mistakeseither you have much overrated my force or you have thought that I intended to remain inactive here. I expect to fight a desperate battle somewhere near Richmond, the most desperate of the war, for I am well assured that the Army of Ma- nassas remains intact, and that it is composed of the best armed and best disciplined that the rebels have, with the prestige of Bull Run in their favor. 1 have or expect to have one great advantage over you, * Not found Page 8 8 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (ChAP. XXIII. as the result of my long and tedious laborstroops that will be demor- alized neither by success nor disaster. I feel that I can count upon this army of mine, and shall gladly venture my life in the scale. If you had been as long in command you would have had as good or perhaps a better army than this, of which I feel very proud, bat that has been your bad luck and my good fortune. You have done all that could have been dQne with the means at your disposal. The fate of war is yet to decide whether I shall prove as skillful as you have been. I am sure thht I have your good wishes and prayers. I hardly know what to say as to your proposition about new grades. Why change the European order in the military hierarchy, and make a general junior to a lieutenant-generaU I see no especial reason for it. I had determined to bide my time, content with my present rank for the present, and hoping that Congress would give another grade after marked success. I have ever felt that higher grades than that of major-general are necessary in so large an army as that we now have, but I have felt great delicacy in alluding to it. But very few weeks will elapse before the questio vexata will be decided. Suppose we let it wait until then and then say what we think. I am willing, however, to defer to your judgment in the matter, and will do all I can to carry out the plan. I dont think I can do anything now. I have but few friends in Congress. The Abolitionists are doing their best to displace me, and I shall be content if I can keep my head above water until I am ready to strike the final blow. You have no idea of the undying hate with which they pursue me, but I take no notice of them and try to keep Warren Hastings motto in mind, Aliens wqua in a~duis. 1 sometimes become quite angry, but generally contrive to keep my temper. Do write me fully your views as to future movements in the West. I think the first thing to be done is to separate Johnston from Memphis by seizing Decatur. Buell must then force Chattanooga, and you can then, with perfect safety, operate on Memphis, & c., and open your communications with the combined expedition, which ought to gain New Orleans within three weeks from this date. Butler will have about 16,000 men. The naval fleet is tremendous in power. Nothing new from Sherman; he and Du Pont are not on good terms; they neti- tralize each other. Burnside is doing well. Very sincerely, your friend, GEO. B. McCLELLAN. HEADQUARTERS ARmrV OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, March 16, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON AS1ecretary ol War: In order to carry out the proposed object of the Army, it has now be- come necessary that its commander should have the entire control of affairs around Fort Monroe. I would respectfully suggest that the simplest method of effecting this would be to merge the Department of Virginia with that of the Potomac, the name of which might properly be changed to that of the Department of the Chesapeake. In carrying this into effect I would respectfully suggest that the present com- mander of the Department of Virginia be assigned to some other com mand Page 9 CHAP. XXIII.] CORUESPONDENCE, ETC.INION. General Mansfield can take temporary charge of Fort Monroe and its dependencies until the army arrives there. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT March 17, 186212.35 p.m. Comm6dore HIRAM PAULDING, Gommandant Navy- Yard, New York: Send what gunboats you have at the yard to Hampton Roads at once. Answer by telegraph which they are and when they can sail. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 17 1862 Capt. WILLIAM L. HUDSON, 2.45 ix m. Commandant Navy- Yard, Boston: Send any gunboats you have at the yard to Hampton Roads at once. Answer by telegraph which they are and when they will sail. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, D. C., March 17, 1862. (Sent 2.45 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN, ~Jommanding Army of Potomac, Alexandria Seminary: In connection with General Barnard I have had a long conference with the Assistant Secretary, Fox, as to naval co-operation. He promises all the power of the Department shall be at our disposal. At my suggestion he has told Commodore Goldsborough to confer with Colonel Woodbury concerning the plans now in view. I have also asked Mr. Fox to detail an officer to have charge of our transports, so that the landing may be effected with as little confusion as possible. A person jnst from Hampton Roads reports nothing new. The Mer- rimac expected out, and waited for with a confident feeling of ability to suppress her. Mr. Fox agrees with me that [it] is most probable she will make her next sortie in all of this week and will be neutralized. Will Heintzelman~s advance division get off this afternoon I IRVIN McDOWELL, Major-General, Commanding First Corps. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, D. C., March 17, 18623 p. m. (Sent 3.15 p. in.) Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of Potomac, Seminary: In view of all the First Corps going together toward the last of the week and of its requiring all the means of water transport that wil Page 10 10 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ~CFTAF. XXIII. be coming here, and that the embarkation of the First Corps, with the troops accompanying it, will most effectually organize the water trans- ports and get from him all that was proposed, I beg to ask that Colonel Ingalls be assigned as the chief quartermaster to the First Corps. I want to have him and my chief of staff and the naval officer in con- ference, to arrange as to the transports and the disembarkation of the troops. Can an inspector-general and a commissary be also now assigned ~l It will further matters if they are. I learn from Mr. Fox that there is a battery where you supposed one would be found. Colonel Cram told Mr. Fox that he thought it l)roba- ble we would find Back Bay fortified. Nothing they have there will stand against our guns afloat. IRVIN McDOWELL, Major-General, Commanding First Corps. ALEXANDRIA, VA., March 17, 1862. (Received 4.40 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The embarking. of Hamiltons division is progressing, but will not be completed until after dark. There was a want of system through- out, probably indispensable from a first attempt. I will give my per- sonal attention to matters to-night, and think that hereafter everything will go on very well. Even to-day there was very little confusion. The troops are in splendid spirits and delighted with the move. GEG. B. McCLELLAN. HEADQUARTERS SEMINARY, VA., March 17, 1862. (Received 8.5 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: No further news from horse transports. I hope to perfect arrange- ments in the morning to facilitate embarkation of men and material. Personal supervision will be absolutely necessary until a more perfect system is introduced. The experience of to-day will enable us to push things hereafter. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, March 17, 1862. (Sent 9.25 a. in.) General E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Army Corps, Fairfax Court-House, Va.: Your dispatch* of 10.50 last evening received. The general commanding fully approves the dispositions you have made of Richardsons division, and he desires you to exercise your dis- cretion in regard to advancing Blenkers division more to the front. If this is done it should be as near the railroad as practicable, in order See Series I, Vol. V, p. 762 Page 11 CHAr. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 11 that it may be supplied easily. The general thinks that if the enemy make their appearance near our front, and are not in large force, they should be driven hack. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. ALEXANDRIA, March 17. (Received 5.30 p. in.) General R. B. MARCY: Learn from General Banks where his own division now is and when it will reach Centreville. See Barnard about the Rnssian Captain Wattler as engineer for Banks. Prime might also assist in defensive work for Manassas. How many guns and of what caliber can Fox bring to ow~ assistance? The chief qnarterinaster should be assigned to army corps with least possible delay. Consult with Kingsbury as to giving an ordnance officer, with mechanics tools and supply train, to each army corps, he himself merely to take the general (lirection of them all, with out being encumbered himself either by men or material. Inform me what he thinks of this. Does Banks understand that Shields is to hold with his whole force the valley of the Shenandoah, at least to Strasburg, until Manassas Gap Railway is completed and in operation? GEG. B.~ McCLELLAN. WASHINGTON, March 17, 18620.30 p. m. (Sent 8.10 p. in.) General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Alexandria, Va.: I gave General Banks his instructions this morning, and he has left to hurry off~ his division to Centreville. He was directed to leave one brigade of Shields division in the valley of the Shenandoah, but I will order him to retain the entire division until the Manassas Gap Railroad is completed. He (lid not know when his division would get off, but he will hurry it, and says they will be three days en route. He has to take a part of his wagons from Sedgwick, at Harpers Ferry, and I should not think he would get his division to Centreville in less time than six days. I will at once give him specific instructions to have Shields guard the valley of the Shenandoah till the Manassas Gap Railroad is finished. I have sent for General Barnard and Colonel King~bnry, and will attend to your other i:istrnctions as soon as I can see them. I have telegraphed General Banks to know at what time his division will reach Centreville. I have just learned that General Van Yliet and Colonel Kingsbury have both gone to Alexandria. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Seminary, March 17, 186211.45 p. in. The First, Second, Third, and Fourth Army Corps will at once be con- centrated on their divisions nearest Alexandria, and the commanders o Page 12 12 TH~ PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. IXilt these army corps will at once establish their headquarters with their troops. The Headquarters of the Army of the Potomac being in the field, no general officer will leave his command without l)ermission from these headquarters. The perfection of the new organization renders it necessary to conform to this order without delay. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTo1~iAc, Seminary, March 17, 186211.50 p. m. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER: Until further orders suspend execution of telegraphic corder sent herewith in regard to concentration of army corps near Alexandria. Your two divisions now with you will remain under previous orders for the present, but will promptly be relieved. Sedgwicks division will proceed to this vicinity under orders from these headquarters. Com- municate fully and frequently. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. (Copy to Secretary of War.) WASHINGTON, D. C., March 17, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Commanding Department, Fort Monroe, Va.: GENERAL: I am instructed by General McClellan, commanding the Department of the Potomac, to inform you that General Hamiltons division of the Army of the Potomac will sail for Fort Monroe, where it will await further orders from General McClellan. General Hamilton has been directed, in the event of your requiring the services of his division Thr repelling an attack, to obey all orders coming from you and to use his utmost efforts to carry out your views. General McClellan telegraphed to you yesterday informing ~ou that General Hamiltons division would sail to-day. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. MARCY Chief of ~taff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF YIXGINIA, Fort Monroe, Va., March 17, 1862. Major.General MCCLELLAN, Washington, D. C.: To the instructions of the Secretary of War of the 16th, by telegram, just received, 10 oclock a. in., I reply that I have already communicated to him and yourself all the information I have regarding the strength and disposition of the enemys forces between Yorktown and James River. I repeat, about ten days ago I received what was considered reliable information that Magruder had between Gloucester (opposite to Yorktown) and James River from 15,000 to 18,000 men, and at Nor- folk and the surrounding country about 18,000 Page 13 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 13 Within the last two days there have been movements the design of which I have not been able to penetrate. Day before yesterday it was rcporte(1 that they broke up a ten-gun battery on Poquosin and Cheese- mans Creeks. I have sent out reconnoitering parties to ascertain if possible what the enemy is doing or intends to do. JOHN E. WOOL, Major-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 83. Near Alexandria Seminary, Va., March 17, 1862. * * * * * * * III. Col. Dixon S. Miles, Second Infantry, commanding Railway Brigade, will report his command to Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, command- ing at Baltimore, but may receive his instructions with regard to that portion of the railway lying within the geographical limits of the Dis- trict of Columbia from Brig. Gen. James S. Wadsworth, military gov- ernor of that District. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: R. B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-dc- Camp, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 83. Near Alexandria Seminary, March 17, 1862. Supplementary. Brig. Gen. J. S. Wadsworth having been assigned to duty, by the direction of the President, as military governor of the District of Co- lumbia, will, besides the military command of the city of Washington, assume the charge of the defenses north and south of the Potomac in the vicinity of Washington. The limits of his command will embrace the District of Columbia, the city of Alexandria, the ground in front of and in the vicinity of the de- fensive works south of the Potomac from the Occoquan to Difficult Creek, and the post of. Fort Washington. He will have chai-ge of the provisional brigades, composed of new troops arriving in Washington, and will exercise supervision over the troops in the city. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 18, 18629A0 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Fort Monroe: Ordered that, in recognition of faithful service by a distinguished and gallant officer, the name of the fort on the ripraps be changed from Fort Calhoun to Fort Wool, by which name it shall hereafter be known and designated. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 14 14 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ICHAr. XXIII. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 18, 186210.20 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL, Commanding Fort Monroe: SIR: The prospective operations of the portion of the army under the immediate direction of General McClellan may possibly extend over some part of the district within your command under existing orders. If such should be the case, it is the Presidents desire that the effi- ciency of his action should not be put to hazard by a technical adher- ence to the strict letter defining your geographical command, and you are therefore requested, should the ease occur, to waive the exercise of your authority temporarily in his favor. The President does not doubt your recognition of the necessity for these instructions, and confidently trusts in your patriotism to give effect to them. Truly, yours, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS FORT MONROE, March 18, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I had the honor but a moment since to receive your dispatch of this date. In reply, I assure both you and the President that no technicalities nor geogral)hical lines will prevent me from assisting Major-General McClellan or any other general officer to the extent of my power and ability to execute to the fullest extent any plan or military operations authorized by either you or the President. To show that my character had not been misjll(lged, before receiving your dispatch I had given 01 ders to my staff to render every assistance to facilitate the movements and operations of General McClellan. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., March 18, 186212.45 p. ni. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: One division of Heintzelinans army is on board and vessels getting under way. In half an hour all will be offi Transports have arrived slowly. There were not enough last night to complete embarkation of this division. Other vessels now arriving, and McDowells army will be put in motion as soon as sufficient number of vessels are here to make commencement. General McClellan and his officers have vis- ited all the landings this morning, and are now preparing a general plan for speedy movements of troops. Has Mr. Tucker secured vessels enough to move this large force, with its artillery and cavalry l I will be at office about 2 oclock, and leave for Baltimore at 2.30. The men are in fine order, and not in the demoralized condition that was reported yesterday. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War Page 15 Ciir. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. J.5 WASHINGTON, March 18, 1862. (Sent 12.55 p. in.) General MCCLELLAN, Seminary, Va.: Captain Rodgers has been assigned to conduct the flotilla, and he is now consulting with General McDowell. I beg to suggest that I think Mcl)owells presence here to-day is important. Shall he remain till to-morrow? Caseys division is encamped around Washington; several of his regiments new. Will he be permitted to remain as he is till further orders? I have assigned Patrick to Kings division; there was but one before. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. ALEXANDRIA, March 18, 18621.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Hamiltons division is fairly under way. I would be glad to have two or three naval officers assigned to me for temporary duty. Any disposable should report to me here at once. The worst is over. Rely upon it that I will carry this thing through handsomely. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, March 18, 18621.40 p. in. General R. B. MARCY: Ask McDowell if he had not better nominally establish his headquar- ters on this side and have some of his staff here. Use your own dis- cretion as to his presence in Washington. As things now are I desire no relief or respite from the army corps organization. I still have to work with divisions. It is not exactly right that the whole labor should be thrown upon the shoulders of the General-in-Chief. At such a time as this I need all the assistance that the corps organization can give me, for I am now constantly obliged to tread on the heels of corps com- manders by acting directly with divisions. I wish to see Captain Rodgers at once. He can do more good here than in Washington, and should consult with me immediately. If Patricks order is not pub- lished, had you not better assign him to Richardsons old division? I leave that to you. Heintzelman would like to have him. Try to get Van Rensselaer also assigned to this army. Let Sacket remain at Head- quarters as Insl)ector-General of the Army. Cannot General Thomas give me two more inspectors, so that I can have one to each corps be- sides Sacket? Would be glad to have Buchanan. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major. General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., March 18, 18621.50 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Please have McCallum provide engines and cars sufficient to trans- port supplies only for an army of 130,000 men, including 20,000 horses, over the West Point and Richmond Railway. The road is about 2 Page 16 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. Xliii miles long. The only trouble at present is in regard to horse trans- ports. If [they] shall arrive promptly we shall have rapid and glorious results. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MARcH 18, 1862. (Sent 2.50 p. in.) General HOOKER: Have you the means of transportation, and can you cross at Hooks [Budds] Ferry, to turn the batteries at Aqnia Creek and force the enemy to burn the bridges acr6ss the iRappahannock? If you have, please cross at once, and drive them across. This is dependent on Commander Wyman giving you something to cover the landing. Let me know what vessels he has. S. P. IIEJNTZELMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Bunns FERRY, March 18, 1862. General HEINTZELMAN: I have canal-boats enough to cross my infantry force without trans- portation or supplies, but no tugs. Will see if I can find and com- municate with Captain Wyman, and see what he can do for me. Can do what you propose if I can be set across this infernal river. JOSEPH flOOKER, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 18, 1862-~-6 p.m. (Sent 6.36 p. in.) General J. HOOKER, Budds F Your dispatch to General lleintzelman has been received. If you find after communicating with Captain Wyman that you can cross two brigades of your division, with one light 1)attery and some cavalry, you are authorized to move on to Aquia Creek, and if you find you can with safety do so, you will proceed oii to the Rappahannock River, when the enemy will probably destroy the bridge. Proceed with caution and feel your way as you advance. R. B. MARCY Chief of ktaz~ MARCH 18, 18627 p.m. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY: I have not yet heard a syllable from Captain Wyman, nor is there a tug in sight. My cavalry, with the exception of one comp~~ny, are now stationed along the banks of th~ Potomac, Chesapeake, and Patuxent Rivers more than 100 miles. Cannot they be ordered in. If I move to- night with two brigades it will be without baggage, except blankets and haversacks. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division Page 17 CHAr. XXIIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 17 SEMINARY, March 18, 18628.45 p. m. Hon. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant & cretary of War: I desired to see YOU in order to be sure that the best possible arrange- ments were made for the rapid and orderly embarkation of the troops, and that everything has been done to insure the prompt arrival of the schooners. It you have seen Ingalls I presume you have arranged everything. I will telegraph you in the morning if it seems advisable or necessary for you to come down. Anxious as I am to expedite this~ very important matter, I should be glad to have frequently the benefit. of your advice. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General.. WASHINGTON, March 18, 1802. (Sent 9.50 p. in.) General J. HOOKER, Budds Ferry: Your dispatch of 7 p. m. to-day received. - You can order back to your assistance, in making the movement, spoken of in my last dispatch, two companies of cavalry. Shonld you make the reconnaissance and not be successful our trans-~ ports are sufficient to give you immediate aid. iR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff.. WASHINGTON, March 18, 180211.40 p. m.~ General J. HOOKER, Budds Ferry: As it appears that Aquia is deserted by the rebels and the batteries abandoned, I would advise that you postpone your movement until to- morrow, when you will have time to learn more of the movements of the enemy, and I, in the mean time, can consult further with the cofti- manding general. I will advise you as soon as I hear from him in the morning. Do not look upon this as an order however if expedient to cross the river at any time. you deem it B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, VA., via boat, March 19 1802. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: lacknowledge your two dispatches received last evening. The second, as unexpected as it is grateful to my feelings, will be acknowledged by mail. All is quiet, and from appearances the enemy are anticipating the expedition now preparing for this place to be intended for an attack on Norfolk, and consequently troops are concentrating at and near that place. Sewells Point is being re-enforced, and new batteries are being erected between that point and Lamberts Point, at the month of Elizabeth River. Stores of every description are arriving. JOHN E6 WOOL, Major- General. 2 R RYOL XI, PT II Page 18 18 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. LCTLAP. XXflL SE3IINARY, VA., March 19, 186211.55 a. m. General WOOL: The First Division of lleiutzelmans corps left here yesterday about 1 p. m. in steamers for Fort Monroe. It is important that they should be disembarked as rapidly as possible, that steamers may at once return for other troops. General Barnard goes clown to-day. Cannot a boat run to telegraph station every hour or SO0? GEG. B. McCLELLAn, Major-General. SEMINARY, March 19, 186211.20 p. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I think we have now well systematized the arrangements for embarka- tion. The troops in splendid spirits. Please have an immediate de- ci5iOn npon the letter which will reach you to-morrow morning in regard to co-operation of the Navy.* That matter is very important. There will be a review of two divisions of First Corps here to-morrow at 2 p. m. All goes well. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. MARCH 19, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Alexandria: In order to determine the precise co-operation you want with the Navy the President will go immediately to Alexandria, and desires you to meet him at the wharf. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. SEMINARY, March 19, 186212 m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The transfer of the large force under way and under orders for the Peniusulabetween James audYorkP~ivers at and above Fort Monroe will render available for active offensive operations the greater part of the troops now under command of Brevet Major-General Wool, who have hitherto been on the defensive. We cannot dispense with this force and to render it available I have to request that such orders may issue as shall place it at my disposal and shall enable me now to have it formed into a division, under the command of Brigadier-General Mans & ld. In this connection I beg to submit that, being the senior mejor-gen- cml coinmaiiding the Army, whenever the forces now nuder my imine- (hate command come in contact with those of other generals I shonid have command of the whole. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major~ Ge~ierai. This reference is to McClellans notes on proposed operations quoted in his report. See Series I, Vol. V, p. 57 Page 19 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 19 HEADQUA1JERS, seminary, March 19, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL: I have seen your dispatch * to the Secretary of War, and beg to thank you for the spirit in which it is couched. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, (Copy to the Secretary of War.) Alajor-General. HEADQUARTERS, Aliarch 19, 1862. Brigadier~General HOOKER: General McClellan desires to be informed at once what the last news is from Aquia Creek and Fredericksburg. A. V. COLBURN, Assis(ant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS HOOKERS DIVISION Camp Baker, Lower Potomac, Aid., March 19, 1862. Brig. 0-en. S. ~XILLIAMs: Please say to the major-general commanding that I have no advices from Aquia or Fredericksburg later than those forwarded last night. I shall have further information to-night, at least I should have. Tell the general that with two brigades and a battery I feel very confident that I can overcome any opposition the rebels may present on this side of the iRappahannock, if it should not disappear of itself which I think the most probable. An advance of a small force in that direction will be considered by the enemy as the head of a formidable column, for it is natural for them to look for an invasion from that direction. It is not their intention to make a stand on this side of the liappahannock. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division. MARCH 19, 1862. Brig. 0-en. 11. B. MARCY: The bridges are all standing at Aqnia Creek and guarde~d. Two Northern men have arrived at Liverpool Point from Fredericksburg yesterday. They represent large numbers of troops in the vicinity of Fredericksburg. They have been using the batteries at Aquia to-day. We can take possession of the bridges, if you desire, between this and morning, with the aid of the Stepping Stones. My negro spies are not in, but this information is reliable. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. BUDDS FERRY, March 19, 1862. Brig. Gen. iR. B. MAR~Y: I have now two steamers at my disposal. Shall I embark two bri * See Wool to Stanton, March 18, p. 14 Page 20 20 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. XXIII. gades, and what shall I do with them when the bridges are burned? I am totally in the dark as to my future, as the bridges will be destroyed the moment I threaten them, if not before. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier-General. MARCH 19, 18621 p. m. (Sent 2.25 p. in.) General HOOKER, Budds Ferry: The sole object of your movement would [be] to force the enemy to destroy his bridges at Fredericksburg. From accounts received last iiight from Wyman as to strength I think two brigades very weak for the purpose. When I hear from you in answer to message sent a few minutes ago as to position of rebels I can decide definitely; meantime await further orders. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, ill ajor- General. WASHINGTON, March 19, 1862. (Sent 10.24 a. in.) General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Seminary, Va.: In accordance with yonr understanding with General Heintzelman yesterday morning, I directed General Hooker to cross two brigades of his division, a squadron of cavalry, and a light battery, and drive the rebels, which he said were still at their batteries at Aquia, toward Fredericksburg; but upon the receipt of a dispatch from him last night, stating that Aquia depot and the batteries had, according to the re- port of three deserters, been abandoned and the troops withdrawn, I ad- vised him to postpone his movement until to-day, when he could prob. ably learn more about it. I told him, however, not to look upon this as an order, provided he at any time considered it expedient to go ahead. He asks, Shall I move camp permanently ~ which I suppose means will he cross and remain permanently on the other side. I will let him know your wishes as soon as I get your answer. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS, Seminary, March 19, 1862. Brigadier-General MARCY: Direct Hooker not to move until further orders. By order: A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS RICHARDSONS DIVISION, Ma~assas, March 19, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER: DEAR SIR: A reconnaissance this morning shows that the bayonets spoken of yesterday in my dispatch were from General Banks column Page 21 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 21 some 8 miles above us, and on the other side of Bull Run; that is, west of Centreville. I have some information as to the position of General Jackson. He is northwest of Manassas Gap 25 miles, and southwest of Winchester, at a place called New Market, in what is called the Valley of the Blue Ridge; has 35,000 men and three batteries. The infantry force at War- renton Junction is 5,000 men and one regiment of Stuarts cavalry in advance 3 miles. At the Rappahannock Bridge they have some 50,000 men. They are falling back since Friday last toward Fredericksburg. The bridge is not yet broken down but is mined, and they appear to be throwing up a small bridge-head in rear on the heights. We have all this information from different intelligent persons, both white and Hack. Yours, truly, I. B. RICHARDSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division. (Thdoreeznent.] HEABQUARTER$ SECOND ARMY Co~rs, Fairfax Court-House, March 19, 1862. SIR: I have just received this report, and respectfully forward it to the Headquarters of the Army of the Potomac. I think that the in- ft~rmers have overstated the numbers of the enemy. Very respectfully, E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding. FORT MoNROE, March 19, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received 7.40 i~. in.) Secretary of War: Matters all right here and will work well. The forces can be landed rapidly, but none have arrived up to 1 oclock p. m. If the general com- manding decides to send all to this point that fact should be commu- nicated in order to provide locations for them. Will you please ascer- tain and advise me I THOMAS A. SCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War. MARCH 19 [1862]9.45 p. m. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Assistant Secretary, Fort Monroe: Arrangements should be made for the accommodation of a large force at Fortress Monroe, so as to be ready if General McClellan should make that his point. I have requested him to give you instructions. EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War Page 22 22 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIII. THE SEMINARY, NEAR ALEXANDRIA, VA., March 19, 1862. Maj. Geii. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding the Army of the Potomac, near Alexandria, Va.: GENERAL: On the 16th instant I received from General Barnard an order to repair immediately to Fort Monroe. At the same time I received at your headquarters in Washington, from yourself, General McDowell, and General Barnard, verbal instructions for my guidance, providing, among other things, that I should make no reconnaissance in person of the landings on York River, lest the enemy thereby might receive intimations of intended movements. In obedience to your orders, I have now the honor to make a brief report, premising that I am indebted to Colonel Cram and General Mansfield for almost all the information I obtained. In the preseiice of Colonel Cram I examined some intelligent negroes, who corrobo- rated information which lie had previously received. A pretended deserter from our ranks, sent out by General Wool several months ago, has recently returned, a real deserter from the enemy, with precise in- formation of the rebel works between York and James Rivers. This information is laid down on the maps, three in nnmber, herewith in- closed, * and all fnrniThed by Colonel Cramtwo copied in his office, one in the office of Captain Stewart, of the Engineers. The first landing or landings on York River are on Back River. Pontoon-boats at high water can go well up the northwestern branch, l)erhal)s as far as Big Bethel, but if the enemy is disposed to make an obstinate stand behind this stream, such a movement of l)oiitOolis woul(l be perilous, if not impossible. This line of defense would be tuined with apparent ease by a movement from Newport News along the direct road which heads the stream in question. On this matter, how- ever, more information is de~jrable. The~ next landing, and the best as a mere landing, is at Ship Point, on Poquosin Rivera regular wood lauding, with 12 feet of water. Here the enemy have had a strong battery, some ten guns, but it is rel)orted have recently evacuated itfor what reason it is hard to con- jecture, unless they intend or did intend to evacuate Yorktown. The road from this landing leads through woods to the Hampton and York- town roads. The interior battery at the head of Goose Creek, between that creek and a branch of Back Creek, indicates an apprehension that we may land on the little peninsula., which is nearly closed at that battery, and negroes informed us that pontoon-boats could land on Cheesemans Creek, a mile or more above Ship Point Battery. The best landing for our purposes, in the opinion of Commodore Goldsborough and Colonel Cram and others, is the one considered iu your office on the 16th instant, namely, the right bank of York River between Wormleys Creek, about 2 miles from Yorktown, and a little inlet about 3~ miles from Yorktown. So far as we can leam~n there are no batteries on this l)art of the river. Gunboats a half mu e from the shore or less can protect the landing. The land, elevated some 20 or 30 feet above the river is cultivated, and without natural obstacles some half mile or more back from the river. The little peninsula between Back Creek, Back Bay, York River, and the little inlet just mentioned will apparently furnish an imnpregnal)le positipn for the landed forces should (hey be forced back by superior numbers. Pontoon-boats, ac- Not found Page 23 CHAP. XXIII.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 23 cording t~ information furnished by the negroes, will ground along the shore on hard sand. The bluff banks are not too steep for infantry. At the little inlet 3~ miles from Yorktown the landing will apparently be protected from any batteries between Yorktown and Wormleys Creek, and more particularly from two batteries of two Dahlgren guns, each said to be masked, 2 miles from Yorktown, and therefore near the niouth of that creek. Finally, the road from this landing turns all the enemys defenses on the Hampton and Yorktown roads up to a point 4 miles from Yorktown. The roads from Hampton and from Newport News to Yorktown pass through alternations of woods and open fields, with woods sometimes on one side and open fields on the other, and with occasional defensive lines of considerable natural strength. Should the enemy occupy these roads and positions in force, a rapid advance by the direct roads would be difficult, and attended~ with much loss of life; but by extending our flanks considerably we shall naturally find some places of easy approach, by which all the natural defenses will be turned. Consider- able road and bridge making would be essential to safe and sure oper- ations. The enemy uow~ holds Big Bethel, where the first serious resistance on the road from Hampton will be encountered. Northwest Branch, Deep Creek, and the narrow divide between the two furnish a strong, continuous defensive line against rapid approachesno serious obstacle, I think, against slow and careful approaches. The works of the enemy at Walls Creek seeni to be built mainly or altogether to prevent our lauding at that point. A similar remark may be made of the works between Deep Creek and Warwick River. Warwick River, near its mouth, has, it is reported, been obstructed by the rebels. I have nothing to add to the information furnished by the map as to the works of the enemy between Hampton or Newport News and Yorktown. It will be noticed that one or two small batteries are found wherever a road fromYork River side joins the main road from Hampton, while no notice is taken of the roads which conic in from tIme James River side. Still these roads seem to turn the positions of the enemy equally well. According to the map there are no pre- l)ared works beyond Deep Creek to prevent a march from Newport News by way of the Court-House and the head of Warw-ick River to a i)O5ition entirely above Yorktown. The last natural line of the enemy a branch of Warwick River, a branch of Wormleys Creek, and the (livi(le between the two, where the last batteries are seen on the Hamp- ton and Yorktown road, about 2& miles from the latter placeunfor- tunately is not turned by the landing below Wormnleys Creek ,and this fact suggests the want of other mucans of turning the works of the enemy entirely above Yorktown, and if l)Ossible above Williams- burg. At Williamsburg, 12 miles above Yorktown, the enemy have fortified to some extent another natural line. On the right of the road, 1 mile below Williamsburg, there is Fort Magruder, a square redoubt with two mounted guns; on the left of the road two square redoubts with- out mounted guns. Commodore Goldsborough expressed his desire to co-operate in every way and his decided belief that the enterprise would be successful. He had secured twelve pilots when I left, and can doubtless find as many more as may be necessary. lie thinks he can protect a landing, and said something about running a gunboat or two by Yorktowmm imm the muight, but did not seem entirely willing to undePtake that muanen- ver. There will be no difficulty in obtaining at Fort Monroe all th Page 24 24 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXI1T. guides necessary for an onward march from Hampton and Newport News. Miscellaneous information obtained in part through General Mans- field from the deserter or spy already mentioned: The steamboat Peck runs from Groves Wharf on James River, opposite Williamsburg, to Richmond, leaving the former place every day at 5 p. m. There is a battery of ten guns at Groves Wharf. On James River, 21 miles above Williamsburg, there is a battery of thirty-two large guns; At War- wick there is a battery of seven guns half a mile above the Court-House. This battery is not represented on the map, and I cannot make out its exact situation. The steamer Logan leaves Yorktown daily at 5 p. m. for West Point. There is a telegraph from Big Bethel to Richmond. Fourteen columbiads are mounted at Gloucester. Twenty-four guns in all, according to Mansfield, twenty-seven according to Cram, are mounted in the fortifications immediately around Yorktown. To these would probably be added the guns withdrawn from outside batteries. Respectfully, D. P. WOODBURY, l2ieutenaitt-Oolonel, Aide-dc-Camp. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 20, 18629.20 a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Your dispatch, dated Seminary, 12 oclock last nj~ht, asking authority to organize a division from the troops at Fort Monroe, for the opera-~ ti~ns under your immediate direction, to be commanded by Brigadier- General Mansfield, has been received, and your request is approved of which General Wool will be advised. General Wool has already, in a most becoming spirit, manifested a disposition to waive all technicali- ties in your favor, and you will encounter no obstacle from him. I am r~joiced to learn that everything goes on to your satisfaction, and no effort of the Department will be spared to insure your success. EDWIN M. STANTON, Sccretary of War. SEMINARY, VA., March 20, 180212.55 p. m. (Received March 20, 18621.40 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Have you received my letter* in regard to co-operation of Navy I If so, please see the President at once and telegraph the reply. On your re,ply much depends, for, as you will see from my letter, I have now to choose at once between the two methods of accomplishing our object. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 20, 18(32. II~jor-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of Potomac, Headquarters, Seminary: Nothing decisive at the Presidents. The plan seemed to find favor with all who spoke. The only question seemed to be as to the ability of the Navy to do their part. I am to go again in the morning, when See Series I, Vol. V, p. 57 Page 25 Ca& r. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 Barnard returns. Whether the Navy can, or not, do anything, I think it evident they cannot before you cau ship another division of Heintzel- mans to Old Point. I spoke to the President, and he thought this would be best, so as not to keep the means of transportation idle. I would therefore send Heintzehnans second division at once or as soon as you can. His first arrived safe last night and was landing. The Secretary says you should have no difficulty with Wool. IRVIN McDOWELL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., March 20, 1802. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. Wooi~, Commanding, Port Monroe: Your telegraphic dispatch of the 19th f 18th] instant, declaring your purpose to waive all technical questions in favor of General McClellan, has been received, and the Department anticipates no obstacle to his operations from any conflict of authority at Fort Monroe. The general states that he will wish to organize the force, or a part of it, under your command, into a division, to be commanded by General Mansfield, and his expressed desire has been approved by the Department. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, Seminary, March 20, 1862. Col. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War, Port Monroe: In answer to a dispatch received by me last evening from the Secre- tary of War I have to inform you that Hamiltons division, which left here Tuesday, will land at Fort Monroe. The arrangements required for its accommodation at that place will be made by the Quartermas- ters Department. It is as yet uncertain what other divisions, if any, will land at Fort Monroe. Should any other troops disembark there, they will be pro- vided for by the staff department of the army. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. NEW YORK CITY, March 20, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: (Received 2.40 p. in.) Please send me the necessary authority for action by this days mail. Be in time. The ship leaves to-morrow. Please answer. C. VANDERBILT. WAR DEPARTMENT, C. VANDERI3ILT, Washington, March 20, 1862. 5 Bowling Green, New York: Your telegram received. The President and this Department are highly gratified at your l)romptitude, and that you are so far forward Page 26 26 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. fl I should be glad to have a detailed statement of your preparations an4 proceedings by maiL The necessary authority for action will be for. warded by this days z~iail, and instructions will also be given to Ga- cal Wool and the officers at Tort Monroe. Yours, truly, EDWIN K. STAI%T01. WAx Dn.aTNT, Wa.Mssgtos Oitjj, MareS 20,1862. C. VMWnnILT, Esq., Yew York (JSty,L 7.: Sn: The President desir6s to turn to the utmost account your patri- otic and generous gift to the Government of the great steamship Van- derbilt, and to use and employ that ship for protection and defense against the rebel iron-clad ship Merrimac, and. also to secure at the present time the advantage of your great energy and nautical experi- ence. And to that end having accepted your gift of the Vanderbilt, lip authorizes and direcis me to receive her into the service of the War Department, and to use and employ the said steamship and her officers and crew, under your supervision, direction, and command, to aid the protectiox~ and defense of the transports now in the service of this Department on Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads, and adjacent waters, and wherever the said transports may be bound Confiding in your patriotic motives and purposes, as well as m your skill, judgment, and energy, full discretion and authority are conferred. upon you to arm, equip, navigate, use, manage, and employ the said steamship Vanderbilt, with such commander and crew and nuder such instructions as you may deem it for the purposes hereinbefore es- pressed. Instructions will be given to the Quartermaster-General to furnish you with supplies, and to treat and recognize the Vanderbilt, her officers and crew, as in the Government service and under the special orders of this Department. Whatever instructions or authority you may require for the proper conduct and efficiency of said steamship in the Government service will be given on application to this Depart- ment To the officers whom you may place in command of said ship you will give such instructions as you may deem proper, communicating a copy thereof to this Department for its information. By order of the President: K. STANTON Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, & mfisarg, March 20, 1862. Ks~. 3. P. G& nsonh, SeeWant A4jutast-Geseral, War Department: The grand aggregate of the Army of the Potomac, including General Dixb, General ~ and General Wadsworths commands, as nearly as can now be ascertained, is 240,234. Of this number 196,797 are infantry; 24,110 are cavalry, and 19,327 are arUller Page 27 CHAP. XXIIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 27 New organizations, imperfectly formed, in Pennsylvania, & c., from which we have no returns, are excluded. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adf tant- General. HEADQUARTERS, & rninary, ]Jfarch 20, 1862. Maj. J. P. GARESCHh~, Assistant Adjutant- General: The statement of the force in the Army of the Potomac, sent forward this morning, included the garrisons of Washington and Alexandria and the troops which have been designated to remain under the command of General Wadsworth. Under the heading of artillery is included the garrisons of the field works about Washington. I mention this to guard against misappre- hension. If you wish simply for a statement of the force that is avail- able ftw the campaign about to be nudertaken by General McClellan it can be furnished without much delay. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAsHINGTON, March 21, 1862. General JOHN SEDGWICK, Commanding, Harpers Ferry, Va.: The general commanding directs that you hold yourself in readiness to move by railroad to this place. Cars will be obtained from Mr. Garrett, president Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, atBaltiinore, to whom you will please makeknown the amount of transportation required. The general also wishes the bridge train now at Harpers Ferry sent here. The engineer corporal will receive instructions from Captain Duane. I will telegraph to Garrett to send up the necessary transportation for the bridge train, and also to receive instructions from you for the transportation you require for your command. Please furnish such assistance as may be necessary to take up the bridge train and load it npon the cars. Please acknowledge receipt of this. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, March 21, 1862. (Received March 22, 186210.20 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just received your telegram of yesterday, 20th instant. I do not comprehend so much of your dispatch a~ relates to General McClellan organizing the force, or a part of [it], under your command, into a division, to be commanded by General Mansfield; an(i his ex- pressed desire has been approved by the Department. It will affor Page 28 28 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cii& ~. XXIII. me great pleasure to aid and assist General McClellan in organizing any force which you or the President may think proper to place under his command and any force you may deem proper to place under the command of Brigadier-General Mansfield to constitute a part of General McClellans forces. Please to answer if this is the proper con- strnctiou of your dispatch. I repeat, nothing will be wanting on my part to organize in the most efficient manner the forces designed for the command of General McClellan. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 21, 18622 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Barnard not yet returned. I will not wait any longer. When he comes they will send for me. I leave at once for headquarters. IRVIN McDOWELL. STEAMER DANIEL WEBSTER, Alexandria, March 21, 1862. Gaptain DAHLGREN, U. S. Navy: General McClellan desires me to inform you that the expedition, consisting of about thirty vessels, will sail to-morrow morning at 10 oclock. F. J. PORTER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. (Copy furnished Secretary of War.) FORT MONROE, VA., March 21, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: General Hamiltons division disembarked 4 to 7 p. m. yesterday. Steamers returned to Alexandria last night; balance are unloading to- day. Weather stormy, which causes delay. Vessels should be started from Alexandria as fist as they are loaded. If delayed there until a division or corps is loaded, much delay will occur here in the debarka- tion. It is believed here that the Merrimac will not be in condition for service for eight or ten days, but this is uncertain. In the mean time mi~ich can be done in this region if the army is pushed forward. General McClellan will have the hearty aid of General Wool in co- operating his plans. I hope all will be well. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War. WASHINGTON, I). C., March 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: We have beeti waiting for Barnard to conclude arrangenients with Navy. He was expected yesterday morning. EDWIN M. STANTON Page 29 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 29 WASHINGTON, D. 0., March 22. 1862. General WooL, Fort Monroe: Your dispatch of the 21st is received. The expedition under General McClellan is considered of paramount importance for the time being, and the telegram to you of the 20th was designed to advise you of that fact and to desire you to waive the exer- cise of your authority iu his favor; or,if need be, to exercise your au- thority upon his suggestions in furtherance of his expedition. This I understand you consent to do, and ~ny telegram was to advise you of a specific arrangement which General McClellan proposes to make. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL, Commanding at Fort Monroe: GENERAL: The steamship Vanderbilt sailed from New York last night for Fort Monroe. She has been given to the War Department and accepted by the President, and is designed to serve and be em- ployed under the instructions of this Department for the convoy and protection of Government transports at Fort Monroe and especially for the destruction of the Merrimac. She is armed, manned, and equipped for the service. You will notify me immediately of her arrival at Fort Monroe, so that I may give any further orders that may be required, and you will receive and provide for her as a vessel belonging to this Department and engaged iu its special service. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. SEMiNARY, March 22, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: General Porter, with his entire division with the exception of one regiment, which is now ready to move, left Alexandria between 10 and 11 oclock this morning. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. BUDDS FERRY, MD., March 22, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS: Have seen General lleintzelrnan. One regiment, with the cavalry, is sufficient to occupy this post. The rebels have one gun at Aquia Creek and a small party to work it. Patrols and pickets constantly make their appearance. but it is not known from what point they come. The rebels have about 3,000 men on the north side of the Rappaharnock, and eiicamped a little to the west of the road leading from Dnmfries to Fredericksburg. If they have a larger force I do not know it. General Sickles reports to me that the depot of Aquia is not destroyed. Captain Wyman informed me several days since that it was. Contra Page 30 30 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXIII. bands have stated the same thing. I forwarded to the provost-marshal to-day a prisoner of the name of Grimes, who lives at the mouth of Po- tomac Creek; is a man of wealth and standing. He says that the rebels have destroyed a part of the railroad bridge at Fredericksburg. It is confirmed by no one else. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS, Seminary, ]Jfarch 22 1862. (Received 10.30 p. in.) General R. B. MARCY: General Dix was some time since ordered to form a brigade for active service under General Lockwood, and to order General Lockwood with nearly all his troops to Baltimore. General Lockwood will arrive with the Second Delaware Regiment, the infantry of Purnells Legion, Third Maryland Volunteers, and First Maryland Cavalry. General Dix seems to indicate this as General Lockwoods future command, and says if they be taken from him he needs two more regiments. The following is General Dixs command: Second Artillery, U. S. Army, garrison of Fort Mcllenry, aggregate 78; Third New York Vol7 unteers, garrison of Fort MeRcury, aggregate 826; Fifth New York Volunteers, Colonel Warren, garrison of Forts Federal Hill and Marshall, dggregate 981; First Maryland Cavalry, Baltimore, aggregate 644;; Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Baltimore, ag~regate 993; Eighty~ seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, guarding Northern Ccii tral Railroad, aggregate 1,008; Fourth New York Volunteers, guarding Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad, aggregate 803; One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, guarding Baltimore and Ohio Rail- road, Annapolis, aggregate 845; L Battery, New York Artillery, Balti- more, aggregate 136; Patapsco Guards, guarding Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, aggregate 103. Artillery, 214; cavalry, 644; infantry, 5,559. Brigadier-General Lockwood, Peninsula Brigade: Second Delaware Volunteers, Drummondtown, Va., aggregate 735; First Easteri~ Shore Maryland Home Guards, Salisbury, Md., aggregate 803; Second East- ern Shore Niaryland Home Guards, Drumnmnondtown, Va., aggregate 592; Purnell Legion, Eastville, Va., aggregate 1,115. Unorganized regiments in Baltimore, but mostly armed: Third Mary- land Volunteers, Baltimore, aggregate 673; Fourth Maryland Volun- teers, Baltimore, aggregate 357; Baltimore Light lufantry, Baltimore, aggregate 383. The effective force, besides the cavalry not employed either garrison- ing forts or in guarding railroads, is Battery L, New York Artillery, and the One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, which is divided up to protect the public property in the barracks of troops recently withdrawn from the division. Garrison of Fort Delaware, regu- lars, 46, & c. BALTIMORE, March 21. General WILLIAMS: Fort Delaware was accidentally omitted in the report sent to you, though no relia- ble report could have been made, in cousequence of recent changes not reported until this morning. I send you the following report, just received: Detachment of regu- lars, aggregate 47; independent battery artillery, Pennsylvania Volunteers, aggregate 95; independent battery, Captain Jones, Pennsylvania Volunteers, aggregate 7S; Bat Page 31 CHAP. XXIfl.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 31 tery A, First Battalion Marine and Fortification Artillery, aggregate 85; Battery B, First Battalion Marine and Fortification Artillery, aggregate 94; total for dnty 340; aggregate 399. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, March 23, 18629.10 p. in. Col. A. V. CoLBURN, A. A. U., Bid qrs. Army of Potomac, Episcopal Seminary, Alexandria: I have endeavored to get some plan arranged and means procured for the most important part of our enterprise, viz, a landing. The only means we have now are the bateaux. These I had intended to go with Captain Duanes command and with McDowells corps. I learned b-day that the Annapolis bateaux had been ordered to Fort Monroe. The trestles, or the India rubber, or the canvas boats will answer for crossing these creeks and all the bateaux should be with the landing corps (McDowells). To-day I had a consultation with McDowell, and it was decided to I)lace the whole matter of furnishing means of landing under General Woodbury, and to put temporarily Captain Duane under his command~ to have the necessary scows, canal-boats, & c., prepare(l immediately, and the bateaux are to form an essential part of the means. The orders have been issued by General McDowell for that purpose. Un- less the aramigements are definitely made now it is out of the question to think of landing any considerable force as a tactical or strategical operation. One company of Duanes command might go with the land forces to put down trestle bridgesperhaps two companiesbut he himself and all the bateaux should go with 1~IcDowell, and Colonel Woodbury will furnish tIme additional men necessary and see to the getting up of ar- rangements. Answer as soon as possible. ~. U. BARNARD, [Brigadier- General.] HEADQUARTERS, Seminary, March 23, 1862. Captain DAHLGREN, Nary-Yard: General Smiths division is embarking to-day, and will leave Alexan- dria by 5 oclock this afteriioon. Please inform Captain Wyman, that he may furnish the necessary convoy. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. SEMINARY, March 24, 1862. (Received 10.5 a. in.) Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: Transportation for infantry exhausted. Capacity of that kind seem Page 32 32 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII overrated. The rest of Averells cavalry are embarking, and several batteries of the reserve will embark this morning. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 24, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: What force is there at Manassas Junction and who is in command there I EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Mareh~24 18 Hon. E. M. STANTON, 6210.10 a. n~. Secretary of War: General Sumner commands the troops vicinity of Manassas. He has a brigade of infantry and a regiment of cavalry at Manassas itself, two brigades at Union Mills, a division at Fairfax. Until the railway l)ridge at Union Mills is finished it is next to impossible to supply aiiy large force beyond Bull Run. Banks division is on the march to Ccii- treville from Winchester. One brigade was, however, ordered back last night to support Shields. Union Mills Bridge will be completed to-morrow, and I shall then strengthen Manassas and occupy War- renton Junction. General Sumner has pushed his recounaissances to G~iinesville, which was found abandoned. It is his opinion that the scouts of the enemy are very weak. Until we can put forage across Bull Run by the railroad it will not be in our power to keep a large cavalry force in front of Manassas. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, March 94 18 General E. V. SUMNER, 6210.30 a. m. Commanding Second Corps, Fairfax Court-House: What is condition of fords over Bull Run? Enemy reappeared yes. terday near Winchester, and, although reported defeated, seem still to be there. Hard to tell in what force, but I do not think large. Can you manage supplies so as to push all your troops across Bull Run and drive the enemy out of Warrenton Junction? Can you maintain an additional cavalry force in that direction before Union Mills Bridge is completed? What is condition of roads 1 beyond Bull Run ~? GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Centreville, March 24, 1862. General MCCLELLAN: Your telegram of March 24 has been received. In compliance with the words, Can you manage supplies so as to push all your troop Page 33 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION 33 across Bull Run and drive the enemy from Warrenton Junction ~ be- lieving I could do so, I took it for granted you wished it done, and moved immediately. A guard will be left at this place and at Manassas Junction, and I will with the remainder of my command move, in com- pliance with your last order, on Warrenton Junction to-morrow morn- ing. I will force the rebuilding of the railroad bridge at Bull Run as far as possible. The fords of Bull Run are practicable. I will cross by Lewis Ford, near which is a bridge for the infantry. Instructions will be left for General Banks, as directed. As the railroad is now com- pleted to Union Mills, I think, with the number of teams I have, I can supply forage for an additional force of cavalry. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army. IIEADeUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, March 24, 15624.30 p. m. General E. V. SUMNER: My telegram of this mor{~g was intended simply to obtain from you the information necessary to enable me to judge when it would be best to move. It was not intended as an order to advance. If you are in motion when this is received keep on to Warrenton Junction. You will not advance the mass of your command beyond that point, but throw your cavalry well in advance, supported by artillery and infantry. Endeavor to force the enemy to burn the railroad bridge over the Rap. pahannock. Leave a sufficient guard at Manassas and Centreville. Leave instructions for Banks command to await further orders at Centreville and Manassas. You will be relieved by General Banks at Warrenton Junction, and will hold yourself in readiness to come back to Alexandria for embar- kation. Render all possible assistance in rebuilding the railroad and telegraph to Warrenton Junction. Beef cattle and additional cavalry will be sent to you. Please read my telegrams very carefully. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 102. Camp near Alex. Seminary, Va., March 24,1862. I. Commanders of army corps may grant leaves of absence for fifteen days and division commanders may approve furloughs to enlisted meu of their commands; but no leaves or furloughs will be granted during the period of active operations. II. The commander of an army corps or of a division may grant passes to the officers and men of their commands for the day, which must be signed by one of two staff officers who shall be designated for the pur- pose, and whose signatures are to be immediately reported to the pro- vost-marshal-general and the military governor of the District of Co- lumbia. III. The Army of the Potomac being in the field, the basis of the organization, administration, police, discipline, and instruction is by division; and the administrative control exercised by department com- manders, under the Army Regulations, now devolves on division corn- 3 R RVOL XI, PT II Page 34 34 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [cRAP. XXIIT. manders, in all that relates to courts-martial as well as to public prop- erty, money, and accounts. When by law, regulations, or order division commanders are not competent to act, the case will be submitted to the commander of the corps to which they belong, who will act thereon or transmit it to General Headquarters. IV. With respect to troops serving within the limits of his command but not assigned to an army corps, the military governor of the Dis- trict of Columbia will exercise the functiojis delegated to commanders of divisions and army corps. V. All troops serving in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, and on the Eastern Shore of. Virginia, not assigned to an army corps, will immediately report to Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, commanding at Baltimore, who will exercise, in regard to them al army corps and division commanders. . I the functions of VI. Until the divisions actually join the army corps to which they have been assigned division commanders will exercise the functions of commanders of corps. VII. The comn~anding officers of the artillery and cavalry reserves and of the regular infantry will have the same powers as commanders of divisions, except that all applications for leaves of absence to offi- cers must be transmitted for action at these headquarters. VIII. Commanders of army corps, unattached divisions, and detach- ments will make to these headquarters every Sunday a consolidated morning report of their commands. IX. The following provisions will be strictly observed, when not ren- dered impracticable by the distance to General Headquarters, through- out the active portion of this army: 1st. Commanders of army corps, unattached divisions, and detach- ments will send messengers to these headquarters at 10 a. m. and 5 p. m. daily for orders. 2d. Orderly hour at these headquarters will be 12 in., at which time daily a staff~ officer from the headquarters of each army corps and separate command will attend at the office of the assistant adjutant- general at these headquarters for orders. 3d. After every march the commander of each army corps or sep- arate command will either attend in person or send a staff officer to the office of the assistant adjutant-general at these headquarters for orders and to report the location of the headquarters of his corps and each of its divisions. 4th. After every march the chiefs of the staff departments at these headquarters will attend in person or send a staff officer to the office of the assistant adjutant-general for orders and to r of their respective offices. , eport the location 5th. Commanders of army corps and separate commands will nse every means to keep themselves constantly informed of the location of General Headquarters. X. Brigades in divisions and divisions in army corps will be num- bered from right to left; but in reports of operations they will be des- iguated by the names of their commanders. XI. Flags will be used to designate the various headquarters, as follows: General Headquarters: National flag. First Army Corps: National flag with a small square red flag beneath. Second Army Corps: National flag with a small square blue flag beneath. Third Army Corps: National flag with a small square blue and red flag, vertical, beneath Page 35 CHAP. XXHI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 35 Fouyth Army Corps: National flag with a small square blue and red flag, horizontal, beneath. First Division of an army corps: Red flag, 6 feet long and 5 feet wide. Second Division of an army corps: Blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 feet wide. Third Division of an army corps: Vertical red and blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 feet wide. Fourth Division of an army corps: Horizontal red and blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 feet wide. First Brigade of First Division: Red and white flag, 6 feet long and ~ wide, vertical. Second Brigade of First Division: White, red, and white flag. 6 feet long, 5 wide, vertical. Third Brigade of First Division: Red, white, and red flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, vertical. Thrst Brigade of Second Division: Blue and white flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide vertical. Second Brigade of Second Division: White blue an feet bug, 5 wide, vertical. , , d white flag, 6 Third Brigade of Second Division: Blue, white, and blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, vertical. First Brigade of Third Division: Red, white, and blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, vertical. Second Brigade of Third Division: Red, blue, and white flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, vertical. Third Brigade of Third Division: White red, and blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, vertical. First Brigade of Fourth Division: Red, white, and blue flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, horizontal. Second Brigade of Fourth Division: Red, blue, and white flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, horizontal. Thin Brigade of Fourth Division: White, red, and blun flag, 6 feet long and 5 wide, horizontal. The different regiments of the brigades will be designated by num- bers 1, 2, 3, 4 on the flag of the brigade to which they belong; white numbers on colored bars and colored numbers on white bars. The artillery will have the colors of the division to which it belongs and be distinguished by a right-angled triangular flag 6 feet long and 3 feet wide at the staff. The cavalry have the same as above except that the shape will be swallow-tailed. The Engineers will have a white disk of a diameter equal to one-third of its width on the flag of the division to which it belongs. The Regular Brigade will have a white star on a red flag, the regi- mental number being in the middle of the star. The hospitals will be distinguished by a yellow flag. The subsistence depots will be designated by a green flag. These flags will be attached to a portable staff 14 feet long, in two joints, and will be habitually displayed in front of the tent or from some prominent part of the house or vessel occupied as the headquarters which they designate, and on the march shall be carried near the person of the officer commanding the corps, division, brigade, or regiment it is intended to designate. The Quartermasters Department will take immediate measures to supply the flags upon requisitions approved by division commanders. XII. The brigade quartermaster will be the ammunition officer of th Page 36 36 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CuM~. XXIII. brigade; and will be assisted by a sergeant detached for that purpose from the brigade. The reserve ammunition of artillery is to be in charge of the senior artillery officer of the division, who will also have a sergeant detached, if possible from the artillery, but if not, from the division. Minor reparations to small-arms will be made by some competent sol- dier, who will be detailed on extra duty from each brigade for the pur- pose, to serve nnder the brigade quartermaster. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 90. Near Alexandria Seminary, Va., March 24, 1862. The cavalry serving with the army is assigned to duty as follows: To the First Army Corps, McDowells. Second New York Cavalry, Col. J. M. Davies; First New York Cavalry, Colonel Mdlleynolds, Brig. Gen. J. P. Hatch to have command of the cavalry serving with the First Army Corps. To the Second Army Corps, Sumners.Third New York Cavalry, Col. Van Alen; Eighth Illinois Cavalry, Colonel Farnsworth, heretofore serving with Hamiltons division, Third Corps; one squadron of the Sixth New York Cavalry, Colonel Devin. Brigadier-General _____ - will report to General Sumner for the command of the cavalry serving with his corps. To the Third Army 6orps, Heintzelinans.Third Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Averell; First New Jersey Cavalry, Colonel Wyndham. To the Fourth Corps, Keyes.First Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Bayard, now, serving with McCalls division, First Corps; Fifth penn- sylvania Cavalry (late Friedmans); Fourth New York Cavalry, Colonel Dickel, now serving with Blenkers division, Second Corps. To the Fifth Corps, Banks.Fifth New York Cavalry, Colonel De Forest; First Vermont Cavalry, Colonel Holliday; First Michigan Cavalry, Colonel Brodhead; First New England Cavalry, Colonel Lawton; First Maine Cavalry, Colonel Allen; the Maryland Cavalry, eighteen companies, the battalion of Pennsylvania Cavalry, and the squadron of Virginia Cavalry now with Shields division. The Cavalry Reserve will be commanded by Brig. Gen. P. St. George Cooke, U. S. Army, and will consist of two brigades, as follows: First Brigade, to be commanded by Brig. Gen. W. H. Emory: Fifth U. S. Cavalry, Sixth U. S. Cavalry, Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, ~Colonel Rush. Second Brigade, to be commanded by Col. George A. H. Blake, First Cavalry: First U. S. Cavalry, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel A3~regg, now serving with Porters division, Third Army Corps; Bar- kers squadron of Illinois Cavalry, Captain Manns company of Oneida ~Cavalry. The Third Indiana Cavalry, now with Hookers division, Third Army Corps, to report for duty to Brig. Gen. James S. Wadsworth, military governor of the District of Columbia. Such of the above-named regiments and detachments as are not now serving with the commands to which they are assigned will be imme- diately reported by letter to the commanders indicated, but will con- tinue on duty as at present until further orders Page 37 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 37 A full report of the strength and condition of each regiment and de- tachment of cavalry will be immediately forwarded to these headquar- ters through the chief of cavalry. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FORT MONROE, March 25, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Nothing of importance has occurred since yesterday. Brigadier- General Smiths division has arrived. The rebels increasing their force in and around Norfolk. It cannot be less than 20,000. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS PORTERS DIVISION, Gamp on Southwest Branch Back River, Va., March 25, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, (ommanding Third Army Gorps: GENERAL: I did not, as I designed on moving here, post any pickets on the roads upon opposite bank leading toward Big Bethel. I in- tended to scour the woods with skirmishers, but fearing it might indi- cate a contemplated movement in that direction I countermanded the order. The river is picketed from the upper to the lower bridge; I do not, however, consider it sufficient, and shall, if not otherwise directed, post a few men to give timely warning of the advance of an enemy. I am too far distant to be injured by infantry, and trust my artillery will be able to prevent the same arm acting on the other side. I understand it to be the wish of the major-general commanding that no reconnaissance except in strong force shall be made to the front. At present I cannot cross the creek with artillery or horse, owing to the want of covering for the bridge, which was asked for to-day. A report has just reached me that some drummer-boys of the Thirty- eighth New York on a pillaging expedition on the opposite bank were captured by the enemy to-day, and that a company was sent in pursuit. I know not of its foundation, but will trace it and inform you if such be the case. There has been much straggling from the troops in rear, and before I arrived here houses on the opposite side were ransacked. I have di- rected that if any one refuses to return on attempting to cross the sen- tinel shall sh9ot. Owing to deficiency of transportation I have not yet been able to get up my command. if you have a cipher I will be much obliged if you will permit me to copy it; mine I destroyed by mistake. I will call upon you in the morning about 10 oclock. F. J. PORTER, Brigadier- General. ALEXANDRIA, March 25, 186212.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Steamers do not return from Monroe as they should. Have only means to embark one brigade of Couchs division to-day. I have tw Page 38 38 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CuAP. XXIII. other brigades ready in case steamers arrive. Five heavy batteries of reserve nearly embarked. Averells regiment of cavalry has been off some hours. Regular cavalry begin to embark to-day. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Seminary, March 25, 186210.10 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON Secretary of War: I send copies of dispatch received from General Smith and my con- sequent telegram to General Wool. There may be some good reason for General Wools order, but I hope that no unnecessary delay will be permitted. One brigade only embarked to-day for want of transporta- tion. Several reserve batteries and one regiment regular cavalry em- barked to-day. To-morrow we shall do much better, as transports have been arriving this afternoon and evening. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosures.] FORT MONROE, March 25, 1862. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding: General Wool last night ordered the quartermaster not to allow my troops to land here, but to send them all to Hampton. I have landed most of the troops here. The next division will have trouble. It will be a very slow business to land at Hampton many troops for several reasons, based upon the depth and width of the channel and one wharf. WM. F. SMITH, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS, Seminary, March 25, 186210 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL, Fort Monroe: General Smith informs me that you have directed that no more troops be landed at Fort Monroe, but that they be sent to Hampton. I urgently request that no steps may be taken to retard the landing of troops, as it is a matter of the first importance to have the transports back here without an hours unnecessary delay. Our success depends much upon rapidity now. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN Major- General. WASHINGTON CITY, ~. C., March 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Fort Monroe: GENERAL: You have been informed from the Department that the expedition now in progress, under the direction of General McClellan, is regarded as of paramount importance, and you have been desired to waive the exercise of your authority in his favor pending the exped Page 39 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 39 tion. The President directs that these views be now communicated a,s orders, which will be observed in conformity with the closing paragraph of the sixty-second article of war, the President having specially di- rected the command to be exercised by General McClellan. By order of the President: EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 26, 186210.10 a. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: It is specially directed by the President, under the Sixty-second Ar- ticle of War, that Fort Monroe and all the forces there or that may be there shall be commanded by you until further orders. By order of the President: EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS FORT MONROE, VA., March 26, 1862. lIon. E. M. STANTON: It is reported by intelligent persons (deserters) from Norfolk that the Merriinac is ready to come oat, somewhat better prepared to en- counter the Monitor. They say that one of the guns had been replaced by one of larger caliber, with balls and fixed spikes. I have just re- ceived your dispatch of this date. Will answer by special messenger to-morrow. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. FORT MONROE, March 26, 1862. (Received 5.45 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN: The troops of the Army of the Potomac are encamped in and beyond Hampton. To facilitate the landing of troops and supplies I had the docks at Hampton repaired. - I ordered the troops to be transported by water to Hampton uIstea(l of 3 miles by land, the mud almost knee-deep ~t the time. The object of my orders were greater dispatch and to keep the men out of the hospitals. None of your officers are more anxious on this subject than myself. JOHN E. WOOL, (Copy to Secretary of War.) Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Alexandria, March 26, 186212.30 p m. General SUMNER, Second Corps: On Sunday the enemy, who had returned toward Winchester, were engaged within 3 miles of that place by General Shields and completel Page 40 40 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. routed, losing two guns, 350 killed, over 1,000 wounded, and some 300 prisoners. The rebels in full retreat. Banks in pursuit. Was last night 5 miles south of Strasburg. It is said that the rebels expect re- enfor~ements near Mount Jackson to the amount of 30,000 men. This is not probable, but it will be well for you to keep well on the lookout in front and on your right, and be cautions, while vigorous. Please keep me fully informed as to state of affairs, and let me know by return messenger the last news you have from the enemy in your front. I think cause of enemys return toward Winchester was false intelli- gence he had used to the effect that we had abandoned Winchester. Report to me fully the state of affairs from Warrenton Junction, that I may be able to judge whether your main body should advance beyond that point or not. It is important to know whether the rebels burn the Rappahannock Bridge. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, U. S. Army. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ llnQus. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 110. ~ Camp near Alex. Seminary, Va., March 26, 1862. I. The duties of the chiefs of artillery and cavalry are exclusively administrative, and these officers will be attached to the headquarters of the Army of the Potomac. They will be required to inspect the artillery and cavalry whenever it may be necessary, and will be responsible that they are properly equipped and supplied. They will not exercise command of the troops of their arms unless specially ordered by the commanding general, but they will, when prac- ticable, be selected to communicate the orders of the general to their respective corps. All requisitions for officers and men and for supplies for the artillery and cavalry, other than the regular supplies furnished by the staff de- partments on ordinary returns, will be sent to the chiefs of artillery and cavalry; to whom will also be rendered, in addition to those made to General Headquarters and division commanders, such reports of artil- lery and cavalry practice, marches, actions, and other operations per- taining to these arms as may be necessary to enable them to judge of the efficiency both of men and material. II. Officers of the staff at any headquarters may correspond direct with officers of their department or corps serving at subordinate head- quarters, and give them, in all matters of routine or administration, all orders and instructions, and call for such returns and reports as the good of the service may require; but they will in no case give any order or instructions which will cause interference with another staff department or corps, or will in any way interfere with the duty of the officer with the commander on whose staff he may be serving. When any such order is thought to be necessary application must be made by the staff officer to the assistant adjutant-general or other officer in charge of the department of orders and correspondence. III. The Provost-Marshal-General has authority to grant passes within the lines of this army. IV. Paragraph XI, of General Orders, No. 102, current series, so far as relates to the flags designative of the Third and Fourth Army Corps, is modified as follows: Third Army Corps: National flag with a small square red and blue [instead of blue and red] flag, vertical, beneath Page 41 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 41 Fourth Army Corps: National flag with a small square red and blue [instead of blue and red] flag, horizontal, beneath. By command of Major-Geucral McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. COMMODORE, Alexandria, March 27, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The whole of the regular infantry and Couchs division sailed early this morning. The Fifth Cavalry is embarked, and as many have sailed as motive power permits. The embarkation of reserve artillery is pro- gressing. Some four or five batteries have sailed. Some two brigades of Sedgwicks division will embark to-day. The Sixth Cavalry will also embark to-day. We are pushing it as rapidly as transports arrive and are coaled. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. SEMINARY, March 27, 18629.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have this moment heard from the telegraphic operator at Manassas, dated 9 p. m. He says last heard from General Sumner was at War- renton Junction 8.30 p. in., and all quiet. Orderly expected soon from Warrenton Junction with answer to your (my) dispatch. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. SEMINARY, March 27, 18625.40 p. m. Brigadier-General Su1~rNER, Near Manassas: Major-General McClellan directs me to request that you report im- mediately the situation of affairs at Warrenton Junction and with your command. A report is current here that you have had an affair with the enemy. This is supposed not to be correct or you would have reported the fact ere this to headquarters. The general wishes frequent reports from you, at least twice in twenty-four hours, by telegraph. He is unable to give orders to General Banks until he learns your situation. Very respectfully, N. B. SWEJTZER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS, FORT MONROE, March 27, 18623 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have just now (3 oclock in the afternoon) arrived at Fort Monroe. We were hindered during the night passing the numerous transport Page 42 42 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. in the river. A reconnaissance was made with 8,000 men, under Fitz John Porter, this morning, extending to Big Bethel, which was occupied by about 1,500 rebels, who fled on the appearance of our forces without any fight. Our troops now occupy the place. I shall communicate fully to-morrow morning by telegraph. P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, FORT MONROE, VA., March 27, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Brigadier-General Porter this day made a reconnaissance as far a~ Big Bethel, and, as I anticipated, found nothing but a picket to con- ten(l with, which retreated after a few shots in the direction of York- town. We have a variety of rumors of a large force at Norfolk and between James River and Yorktown. I think it more than probable that 30,000 may be at Norfolk a possibly a greater force. nd between James River and Yorktown JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HAMPTON, March 27, 18628 p.m. (Received March 28, 10.30 a. in.) General WILLIAMS: At 5.15 this afternoon General Smith was holding the left bank of Watts Creek. His men have crossed at the month of the creek, and find no batteries there. He is informed that there is a strong force of the, enemy at Youngs Mill 4 m morning. iles distant. He will return in the S. P. HEJNTZELMAN, Brigadier- General. HAMPTON, VA., March 27, 1862. General WILLIAMS, (Received March 28, 10.40 a. in.) Assistant Adjutant-General: The troops have been to Great Bethel, and only found a cavalry picket, and a short distance beyond about 200 cavalry, who retired. No news has been received of General Smiths division, which took a road farther to the left, but it is not probable they met any of the enemy. The troops are returning. The earthworks are not formidable. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Washington, D. C., March 27, 1862. Commanding at Fort Monroe: GENERAL: Allow me to introduce to you Cornelius Vanderbilt, esq., of New York, and commend him to your confidence and kind attention. On Saturday last you were informed by telegraph from this Depart Page 43 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 43 ment that the steamship Vanderbilt has been given to the Government and accepted by the President, and assigned to special duty to guard the transports in the service of this Department and to aid in the de- struction of the Merrimac. I am waiting for intelligence from you of the arrival of the Vanderbilt, as requested in my telegram, and feared something had delayed her, but Mr. Vanderbilt informs me she arrived on Sunday. I hope that you may find much advantage in the use of the \Tanderbilt. I have also detailed the Metamora, the fastest vessel that could be chartered, to run as a packet between the fortress and Cherrystone Point and guard the telegraphic cable. You will please give such orders as you may deem proper for that purpose. I have placed the Metamora at the disposal of Mr. Vanderbilt while he is at Fortress Monroe. Yonrs, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., March 27, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL: GENERAL: Mr. Scott, Assistant Secretary, has just arrived, and brings me your note of the 24th,* stating that you had turned the Vanderbilt over to Flag-Officer Goldsborough. This disposition of the Vanderbilt was not conteml)lated by my instructions to you nor designed as the Ino(le of employing that vessel. She belongs to the War Department, and is to act exclusively under its orders. You will therefore take measures to have her placed immediately under command of this Department and relieved from duty under Flag-Officer Goldsborough. Yours, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. SEMINARY, VA., March 28, 186211.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. P. IIEINTzELMAN, Fort Monroe: Your telegram of yesterday morning received only last night. I hope the movement on Big Bethel was well considered, in view of my wish not to prematurely develop our plans to the enemy. If the destruction of their battery and your subsequent return confirms the idea that we are after Norfolk all is well except the fact of falling back. If this reaches you in time it would be well to hold the position of Big Bethel if its reoccupation by the enemy can give us any trouble. You on the ground can best judge of this. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN. SEMINARY, March 2812.15 a. m. General E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Second Corps, Warrenton Junction: I am much surprised that I have not heard one word from you to. *Not found Page 44 44 THE PENINSULAL~ CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. day. Unless I have constant information from the commanders of all detachments and corps it is impossible for me to arrange general move- ments. My instructions to you were to report when you reached War- renton Junction. I learn from other sources that you reached there at 8.30 a. m. on the 27th, yet I have nothing from you. I must insist upon it that I have full information of everything that transpires. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS DARMIIE, Warrenton Junction, March 28, 1862. General S. WILLIAMS, A.A. G., Headquarters Army of Potomac, Seminary: Since General Howard marched he has reported to me that his ad- vance has come up with a squadron of the enemys cavalry and was skirmishing with it. Having heard nothing further from him, I pre- ~ume the enemy has been brushed out of his way. Should General Howard be driven back by a superior force, shall I advance instantly with my command beyond this I)oint I E. F. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Comdg. Second Army Corps. WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 28, 186210 p. m General WILLIAMS: Your two dispatches of this date have been received. General How- ard reports this evening that he is within 3 miles of iRappahaunock River, driving a regiment of cavalry before him. He has not seen any infantry in force. I presume all is right. I shall not move on Warren- ton until General Howard returns. E. F. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army. SEMINARY, March 28, 1862. (Sent 10.5 p. in.) General E. F. SUMNER: Your dispatch of this date has been received and laid before the com- manding general, who directs that in the event of General Howard meeting with a large force of the enemy you at once move to his sup- port, and if you find the enemys force greatly superior to your own you will cover General Howards retreat to Warrenton Junction or the strongest position in its vicinity, where you will make a stand and re- port for further instructions. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 45 ORAP XXHI.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 45 WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 28, 1862. (Received 11.30 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJT3TANT-GENERA~L, Headquarters, Seminary: Your telegram just received and all is quiet. I do not believe the enemy is in any force in this vicinity. My command is well in hand. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, Commanding Second Corps. BUDDs FERRY, Mxrch 28, 1862. General WILLIAMS: I am informed by contrabands just in from the Rappahannock that several regiments have left their camps about Fredericksburg for the South. It is stated that they left for North Carolina. Almost all the rails have been removed from the road between Aquia and Fredericks- burg. The common talk is that the rebels intend to burn the bridges at Fredericksburg on our advance. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS OF THE ARMY, Warrenton Junction, March 28, 1862. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: I received during the night and this morning your telegrams of March 27 and March 2812.30 a. m. I took possession of this junction yesterday afternoon, and immediately sent you the following dispatch by telegraph: HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, Warrenton Junction, March 27, 1862. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL B[eadquartere Army of the Potomac: I hold Warrenton Junction. The enemy abandoned the position on my approach. His force I have not . ascertained. A reconnaissance in force will march to-morrqw morning toward the Rappahannock Bridge. The reconnaissance will be command~d by Brigadier-General Howard, and will consist of two regiments ef cavalry, one bat- tery, and three regiments of infantry. There has been some slight skirmishing, bat we have suffered no loss. If I am to remain here for any length of time I would be glad if my other division could be sent to join me. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding Second Corps. General Howard will move immediately to make the reconnaissance toward the Rappahannock Bridge. I should have much preferred to advance with my whole command toward that point, but as your order of March 24 expressly directs me not to proceed beyond this place with the mass of my command I shall await here your farther orders. I can take Warrenton without difficulty. Shall I do so ~ E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding Second Corps Page 46 46 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CnAP. XXIII. FORT MONROE, VA., March 28, 1862. flon. E. M. STANTON: A large number of soldiers arrived to-dayit is said 12,OOOinclud- ing several regiments of regulars. I have 110 official returns of the number. The rebels fired from Sewells Point a bail that fell amoiig our shipping, within a quarter of a mile of the shore, opposite Camp Hampton. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. Hon. E. M. STANTON, CHERRYSTONE, VA., March 28, 1862. Secretary of War: Yesterday afternpon I visited the Vanderbilt, and found her prepara- tions are far advanced and that she is at any moment ready for action. Her steam is kept constantly up. There are seven steamers here, all ready to act as rams, with more or less efficiency, but by their combined operations abundantly able to destroy the Merriinac. In my judgment it is impossible for the Merrimac to come dowii to Fort Monroe with- out being sunk by the rams. She can run up James River; she can attack Newport News, and do what she pleases above Fort Monroe, as the channel above is too narrow ahd crooked to admit of the steam rams being worked against her with effect; but while remaining up there out of our reach she can do us no harm. Commodore Golds- borough is fully awake to the importance of destroying the Merrimac, and has a clear comprehension of the manner in which that can best be done with the means at his command. I think he will (10 his duty both skillfully and bravely, and I have no doubt ~vith success. Mr. Vanderbilt fully approves Commodore Goldsboroughs plan of battle, and desires the steamer Vanderbilt to remain under Goldsborough~ command. I have directed her so to remain until otherwise ordered by you. The large guns are not made as available as they ought to be. The 15-inch gun is not yet ready to be used with any efficiency, although it is mounted upon a carriage. It is important to have the great gun made available immnedi4ely for defense against the Merrimac. If you approve I will return this afternoon to aid in making it ready. The officers of two steamers of the French navy, now here, went to Nor- folk yesterday under a flag of truce sent by Commodore Goldsborough. On their return this morning they at once got up steam in both ships, although they have had their fires out for the last week. This lobks as if they anticipate a naval engagement to come off soon. This is all the information I can gather as to the force and disposition of the rebels. I think they will make no fight this side of Richmond. Our chief difficulty will be to land transportation. I will await your answer here. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. SPEcIAI~ ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 94. Near Alexandria Seminary, Va., March 28, 1862. * * * * * * * III. Brig. Gen. J. P. Hatch is relieved from duty with the First Army Corps (McDowells), and will, without delay, report to Maj. Gen. N. P. Banks for the command of the cavalry serving with the Fifth Corps Page 47 OHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 47 The Seventh New York Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Babbitt; the Sixth New York Cavalry, Colonel Devin; the Tenth New York Cavalry, Colonel Lemon; Pierces regiment of Pennsylvania cavalry, now in Phil- adeiptila, and Swains regiment of ~ew York cavalry, now in New York, will report to Major-General Dix for assignment by him to duty under Col. Dixon S. Miles, Second Infantry, in guarding the railways, & c. Upon the arrival of any three of these regiments General Dix will cause the Tenth Maine, the Sixtieth New York, and First District of Columbia Volunteers to be relieved from duty with his division and ordered to report for duty until further orders to Brig. Gen. James S. Wadsworth, military governor of the District of Columbia, who will concentrate them near Fort Corcoran under the command of the senior officer present. General Wadsworth will report the execution of this order. The Quartermasters Department will furnish necessary transporta- tion for the movement indicated. By command of Major General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS, Hampton, March 29, 18623 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: General Porters division returned to camp at 6 p. m. Brigade went about 1 mile beyond the Halfway House, nearly 4 miles beyond Big Bethel. His skirmishers, some of Berdans Sharpshooters, went near to Howards Branch, at Howells Mill, where was seen a breastwork. Three deserters who came in yesterday morning from Yorktown report that General Magruder was there with nearly all his force, about 8,000 men, having left a guard of but 500 at Yorktown and in the batteries at Shipping Point. Our cavalry drove in their pickets, but captured none, their horses being too fleet. General Smiths division followed the road near James River from Newport News, encamped for the night at Watts Creek, and returned to this camp yesterday morning. He re- ported a strong force at Youngs Mill. From the best information I can obtain General Magruder has between 15,000 and 20,000 men under his command. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Brigadier- General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 29, 18621 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Seminary: Express just received from General Howard. He drove the enemy across the Rappahannock Bridge, and is now in camp on this bank of and near the Rappahannock River. The enemy blew up the bridge in his retreat. There was skirmishing during the march and a few shots exchanged by the artillery, without any loss on our side. Their loss, if any, is not known. General Howard will return to this camp to-mor- row morning. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, Commanding Second Army Corps Page 48 48 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cair. XXIIL WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 29, 18622 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Seminary: I omitted to state in my last dispatch that General Howard reports that there were two brigades on the opposite bank of the river when lie reached it, commanded by Major-General EwelL The enemy re- treated upon his opening fire upon him with his artillery. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, Commanding Second Army Corps. WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 29, 18629.30 a. m. General S. WILLIAMS: General Howard will return this morning. Shall I take Warrenton to-morrow? There is much forage in our vicinity. I will send organ- ized parties this morning to collect; certificates will be furnished the owners, specifying that they will be paid fair prices for their property so taken on presentation of the certificates to the proper officer, on con- dition that they take at the time of presentation the oath of allegiance to the United States. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding Second Corps. MARCH 29, 186212.37 p. m. General E. V. SUMNER, Warrenton Junction: Your dispatch of this morning with respect to a movement on War- renton to-morrow has been laid before the commanding gener~d, who will in the course of the day instruct you upon the subject of your dis patch. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Commodore, March 29, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER, Warrenton Junction: Abercrombies brigade and Colonel Gearys regiment, Banks division, are supposed to be now near Manassas, and they will be ordered to re- port to you at Warrenton Junction. On their joining you the command- ing general directs that you send Blenkers division back to Manassas, where it will await further instructions from these headquarters. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SEMINARY, March 29, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER, Warrenton: The commanding general directs that you at once place a suitable guard over the portion of the line and bridges of the finished portio Page 49 CHAP. XXHI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 49 of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad beyond Fairfax Station. The commanding officer at Alexandria will be instructed to guard the l)art of the road between Fairfax Station and Alexandria. Please acknowl- edge. S. WILLIAMS, 4ssistant Adjutant-General. General WILLIAMS, WARRENTON, March 29, 1862. Assistant Adjutant- General, Seminary: Your telegram has been received and the necessary orders issued to) the commanding officer at Manassas to insure protection to the Orange and Alexandria Railroad. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding Second Corps. ALEXANDRIA, VA., March 29, 18629 p. m. General E. V. SU1~rr~ER, Warrenton Junction: You are authorized to make the movement on Warrenton proposed: to-morrow and occupy the town. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY CORPS, March 29, 1862.. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I inclose a copy of my Special Orders, No.5, of March 23,. 1862, and of a letter from Brigadier-General Woodbury of this date, in refi~rence to the means of landing my command on the Lower Chesa- peake. It will be seen from General Woodburys letter that the means on which he has been relying are beyond his reach and under an officer not subject to his or .my control. It will therefore be necessary to make such arrangements at the Headquarters of the Army of the Poto- mac as shall effect the object indicated in my special order, herewith, and that these means be so placed, or the person in charge of them so ordered, that there shall be no failure when the First Corps shall have occasion to land. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IRVIN MCDOWELL, Major-General, Commanding First Army Corps. [Indorsenient.] STEAMER COMMODORE, March 31, 1862. The fact that an order of the purport of General MQIDowells Special Order, No. 5, had been issued by him was communicated to the coin- 4 R R.YOL XI, PT II Page 50 50 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. manding general (by telegram March 23, I think) by me, and that it had been issued so as to systematize and commit to one competent person the making of all preparations for a landing. The reply of the commanding general indicated that he had dis- patched part of the means relied on to Fort Monroe, and caused me to presume that he meant to keep the whole sllbject subject to his decision after arriving at Fort Monroe. If it is decided that McDowells corps is to land, and where it is to land, it would certainly be desirable that he should have all his means with him, and it was on this supposition that General McDowell is sup- posed to have issued the order. As a large part of the means are, however, presumed to be ordered - to Fort Monroe, and there has been some unavoidable causes for so doing, General Woodburys suggestion seems a proper one. Whether after arriving at Fort Monroe my (luties will permit me to give much personal attention to collecting craft is doubtful, nor do I know whether Captain Duane will be free for this matter. Would it not be well with the two companies General Woodbnry proposes to send to send also the colonel of the New York Fifteenth, a sailor, and well qualified for the collection and management of the scows, & c., which will be collected there. J. G. BAIRNAI~D, Brigadier- General. [Inclosure 1.] SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY CORPS, No. 5. March 23, 1862. I. Captain Duane, Engineers, will report for duty with his battalion to Brigadier-General Woodbury, who is with his brigade, now attached to Franklins division. II. Brigadier-General Woodbury is charged with the duty of pro- viding the necessary means of landing a large body of infantry, artil- lery, and cavalry, with their stores and munitions, from a fleet of trans- ports to the shore, other than such as the Quartermasters Department may supply, in the way of light-draught steamboats, the number and draught of which he will ascertain and include in his calculations. It is contemplated embarking the three divisions of the First Corps together, and it is intended they should be disembarked as rapidly as possible and go immediately into action. The Navy is to protect the landing with its armed vessels. As General Woodbury is aware of the possible places where the landing is to be effected, he will take into account the depth of water and the draught of the transports and the distance they will have to lie from the shore. By command of Major-General McDowell: SAML. BI~ECK, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure 2.] HEADQUARTERS, & C., March 29, 1862. Major-General MCDOWELL, Commanding First Army Corps, Alexandria, Va.: GENERAL: Many of the flats and other craft and all the wooden pon- toons required to land men and guns rapidly are now at Fort Monroe Page 51 CITAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNTON. 51 Such of these vessels, large and small, as are to be used for the serv- ice in question, and are not to be sent back to this place, should be collected at Fort Monroe and put in order for that service. 1 propose to send down two companies of the Fiftieth Regiment New York Volunteers to Fort Monroe to assist in the necessary preparations. I suggest that General McClellan direct Brigadier-General Barnard to give his personal attention to these preparations, and that one or more of the engineer officers attached to the battalion of Captain Duane be detailed for this special service. Respectfully, B. P. WOOBBURY. [STEAMER] COMMODORE, March 29, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The transports containing Gorinans brigade have left. The remain- der of Hunts artillery reserve is afloat. All the regular cavalry ex- cept the Second Regiment has now embarked. Colonel Ingalls expects to have Caseys division off by to-morrow, except, perhaps, the artil- lery, and he says that by retaining the transports now here, and includ- ing those expected within the next two or three days, and those that take down Caseys division, which are expected to return within sixty hours, he can embark the First Army Corps by Wednesday next. Hookers division can be embarked on Monday and Tuesday if no other troops are sent after to-morrow. S. WILLIAMS, Axsistant Adjutant- Generals FORT MONROE, VA., March 30, 18629.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, AS~ecretary of War: A northeast storm raging. The great guns are ready for efficient action. The fleet of steam rams is ready to receive the Merrimac. She will probably come out when the storm abates, but may remain at Norfolk until McClellan places his army and supplies upon transports; but she can (10 no harm. The troops are arriving and debarking slowly. If the Merrimac does not come out to-morrow I will return, unless you desire me to remain. Telegraph instructions. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 30, 1862. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Headquarters: Colonel Farnsworth, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, with eleven companies of his regiment, is in advance, scouting toward the Rappahannock. A brigade is in hand to support him, if necessary. In addition to the three officers reported captured yesterday there are two others now absenta lieutenant and an assistant surgeonwho are supposed to have been taken prisoners by the enemys scouts. They left camp without any authority whatever. Stringent orders have been promul- gated to the corps with reference to straggling. General Orders, No. 10, March 30, prescribes that no officer or enlisted man shall pass the guards of the bivouac excepting by special permission from these headquarters or when on duty. To insure that all remain within thei Page 52 52 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. regimental and company lines roll calls are held every hour during the day until tattoo throughout the entire corps. Some few privates are reported as captured by the flying scouts of the enemy. These scouts are, it is supposed, in league with the people living in our vicinity, and it is impossible to decide whether a farmer is a liona fide farmer or a Confederate soldier in farmers clothes. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadkr- General, Commanding Second Gorps. WARRENTON JUNCTION, VA., Marcig 30, 18629.30 p. m. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. Colonel Farnsworth, with his regiment (Eighth Illinois Cavalry), has returned from a reconnaissance toward the Rappahannock River. He penetrated to the high gronud above the burned bridge, and saw no enemy. He reports that the country is clear between this point and the river. From information derived by questioning the people in the vicinity of his route he is of the opinion that the enemy has retired to the Rapidan. B. V. SUMNER, Brigadier- General, U. S. Army. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., March 31, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The President directs that Blenkers division be sent forward to Har. pers Ferry, there to wait further orders, instead of being sent to Fort Monroe. Please acknowledge this order.* EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, March 31, 18626.40 p. m. (Received 7 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Dispatch in reference to Blenkers division received. Am I at liberty to move Richardsons division here for embarkation, leaving Blenker to be relieved by Banks, or must Richardson wait ~ The last arrange- ment would delay my operations. Shall Blenker move to Harpers Ferry via Washington I GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, U. S. Army. WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 31, 1862p.m. General S. WILLIAMS: I would respectfully ask to be informed what I am to understand by the withdrawal of the two principal divisions from my army corps, and leaving me the Germau division only, which, in my opinion, is the least effective division in the whole army. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commdnding Second Corps. ~ See also tlie President to McClellan on this subject, Series I, Vol. V, pp. 58, 62 Page 53 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 53 MARcH 31, 1862~ 8.50 p. m. General E. V. SUMNER, Gommanding Second Gorps, Warrenton Junction: By order of the President Blenkers division is to join General Fr6- mont. I shall replace it by a division under General Mansfield. The purpose of withdrawing the two divisions of your corps is to con- centrate your corps in the field of active operations under your personal command. You will receive further instructions to-morrow. In the mean time please have Richardsons division ready to move back in tlie morning. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, March 31, l862p. in.. General S. WILLIAMS: Your telegram of 8.50 p. m. is received. Richardsons and Blenkers divisions are at this point, in bivouac. I had intended, under previous orders, to have sent on the arrival of General Abererombies to-morrow Blenkers division to Manassas Junction the day after. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, (~ornmanding Second corps. Ab8tract from the Return of the Army of the Potomac, commanded by Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, for March 31, 1862. Present for duty. .~ a 0 ~ a a Q~ Q a ~ ,~ ~,n a -~ a Command. a so t;L~ 0 a aH a a t;t; SC ~ 0 ~ General staff 73 73 73 First Army Corps (McDowells)* 1, 391 32, 119 35, 943 38, 454 68 Second Army Corps (Sumners)t 1, 247 25, 531 27, 907 31, 037 60 Third Army Corps (Hcintzelmans~ 1, 370 31, 677 35, 842 38, 849 04 Fourth Army Corps (Keyes)~ 1,439 31, 480 34, 798 37, 910 60 Fifth Army Corps (Banks)jj 944 21, 759 23, 607 32, 623 59 Military district of Washington (Wadsworths) . 821 18, 078 20, 795 22, 410 6 Military district of Alexandria (Tides) 50 1, 230 1, 404 1, 459 Provost-marshal guard (A. Porters) 32 542 033 711 Regular infantry (Sykes) . - 153 3, 752 4, 142 4, 765 Re~ular cavalry (P. St. George Cookes) 99 2,102 2, 771 3,141 Artillery Reserve (Hunts) 127 2, 604 2, 906 3, 116 100 U. S. Engineer troops (Duanes) 4 224 237 288 Headquarters cavalry escort; (McIntyres) 4 104 113 145 Total 7, 760 171,602 191, 171 214,983 11417 * Franklins, McCalls, and Kings divisions. Richardsons, Blenkers, and Sedgwicks divisions. Fitz John Porters, Hookers, and C. 5. Hamiltons divisions, and Averells Third Pennsylvania Cavalry. Couchs. XV. F. Smiths, and Caseys divisions. (A. S. Williams nnd Shielis divisions. 11 The ori~inal return shows in the horizontal line of total 242 pieces of heavy, 440 of field, and 6 of mountain artillery. iho vertical columns show 6 pieces of heavy, 411 of field, and none of mount. am. In this abstract only the number of pieces found in the vertical columns is given Page 54 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAP. XXIII. Abstract from Return of the Department of Virginia, Maj. Gen. John F. Wool, U. S. Army, commanding, for March, 1862. 4. Present for ~ ~ Pieces of duty. a ~ artillery. a 4 a 0 0,n Command. -44 ~ d 1 aD mu 44 a an ~ a & ~o a aD o ~ ~ Department staff 16 18 Fort Monroe 53 1, 203 1, 495 1, 643 - 223 28 Camp Hamilton 240 5, 492 6, 351 6, 845 6 Camp Butler 204 5, 109 5,892 6,217 10 Fort Wool 6 152 162 181 Total 519 11, 956 13, 900 14, 904 223 44 Organization in the D~partment of Virginia, March 31, 1862. FORT MONROE. Maj. JOSEPH ROBERTS. 10th New York. 99th New York (two companies). 6th Massachusetts Battery. 4th U. S. Artillery (detachment). Wisconsin Light Artillery. CAMP BUTLER. Brig. Gen. J. K. F. MANSFIELD. 20th Indiana. 5th Maryland. 29th Massachusetts. 1st New York. 2d New York. 7th New York. 11th New York. 4th U. S. Artillery, Battery L. CAMP HAMILTON. Cal. MAX WEBER, Twentieth New York. 1st Delaware. 16th Massachusetts. 1st Michigan. 20th New York. 99th New York (six companies). 58th Pennsylvania. 2d Massachusetts Light Artillery, Bat. tery B. 4th U. S. Artillery, Battery D. 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry. Mounted Rifles (four companies). FORT WOOL. Lient. Col. G. B. HELLEDAY. 99th New York (two companies). [APRIL 1, 1862.For the organization and composition of the troops of the Army of the Potomac sent to the Peninsula in March and early in April, see Series II, Vol. V, pp. 1921.] HEADQUARTERS AR1~nr OF THE POTOMAC, Steamer Gommodore, April 1, 1862. Brig. Gen. J. S. WADSWORTH, Military Governor: The commanding general directs that you order at once 4,000 troops from Washington to Manassas, and that you order to that point as fast as they report to you the Tenth Maine, First District of Columbia, Six- tieth New York, and Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Regiments, which have been latterly employed upon the duty of guarding the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad; also from regiments which the Governor of Pennsyl- vania has been requested to send to Washington. 5 Page 55 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 55 These troops will be instructed to report on their arrival at Manas- sas to Brigadier-General Sumner, or, in the event of his having left, to Brigadier-General Abererombie. They will be employed as long as their services may be required for the purpose of constructing the field works to be thrown up at 1~Ianassas, which will be laid out by Lient. Col. B. S. Alexander, aide-dc-camp, and constructed under the super- intendence of Captain Munther, aide-de-ca~p and engineer. The commanding general also directs that you send with the least possible delay a regiment of infantry to Budds Ferry, to relieve Hook- ers division, to arrive before the last of the division leaves, and it will embark on Thursday or Friday of the present week. The regiment of itifantry to be sent to Budd~s Ferry will report to Colonel Carter, Third Indiana Cavalry, and be guided by such instruc- tions as that officer may give. The order heretofore in force in General Hookers command respect- ing the intercourse with the Virginia shore will be fully carried out. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. STEAMER COMMODORE, April 1, 1862. (Received April 2, 1 a in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have instructed General Sumner to move two brigades of Blenker on Strasburg as soon as he learns that 4,000 m en will join him pro~ptly from Wadsworths command. Please expedite this. My letter explains fully. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 1, 1862. Brigadier-General WADSWORTH, 3111. Gov. of the Dist. of Columbia, Washington, D. C.: If the cavalry under General Hatch has not all left Washington, please direct him to send two regiments to report to General Aber- crombie at Warrenton Junction. If General Hatch has left with the four regiments, l)lease send directions for the two regiments in rear to proceed to Warrenton Junction by the shortest route. The intention is that two of the four regiments are to go to Winches- ter and two to Warrenton Junction. The regiments assigned to Gen- eral Hatch are the First Vermont, First New England, Fifth New York, and First Maine Cavalry Regiments. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Steamer Commodore, Midnight, April 1, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Warrenton: If you learn of 4,000 men being about to join you from General Wads- worth, you can detach two brigades of Blenkers division, under Ge Page 56 56 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cuxr. XXIIL eral Blenker, and send them by the shortest route to Strasburg. Upon the force joining you at Manassas from General Wadsworth, if matters be entirely quiet in front, you may at once proceed to Fort Monroe to assume command of the two divisions of your corps. Let General Blenker upon reaching Strasburg report to General Banks for instruc- tions. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Afajor.General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Steamer Commodore, April 1, 1862. Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKs, Commanding Fifth Corps, Strasburg: I have given General Sumner discretionary orders to move two bri- gades of Blenkers to Strasburg to-morrow to report to you. Written instructions by mail. Blenker is ordered to Fr6mont, but will remain a few days with you until affairs are settled in your front. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 99. Steamer 6ommodore, Potomac River, April 1,1862. * * - * * * * * 3. By direction of the President, Brig. Gen. Louis Blenker, and the division under his command, will, at the earliest practicable moment, be relieved from duty with the Army of the Potomac and transferred to the Mountain Department. In the mean while General Blenker will receive special instructions for his guidance from General Sumner, who will immediately send two brigades of the division, under General Blenker, to Strasburg, to report to General Banks for temporary serv- ice, and upon being relieved by him to proceed to Winchester and re~ port for instructions to the Adjutant-General of the Army. The re- maining brigade, as soon as the troops drawn from the Railway Brigade, Colonel Miles, reach Manassas, will proceed by the shortest practicable route to rejoin General Blenker. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. [APRIL 2, 1862.For McClellan to Burnside, in reference to co-opera- tion of his forces, see Series I, Vol. IX, p. 374.] WARRENTON JUNCTION, April 2, 1862. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Army of the Potomac, Fort Monroe: I forward herewith a copy of telegram just received from General Wadsworth for the information of the general commanding Page 57 CHAP. XXIII.] ZORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 57 WASHINGTON, April 2, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER: I find no regiments really fit to move or go into the field. I will try and get them off on the 4th. JAS. S. WADSWORTH. General Abererombie arrived to-night with five regiments, eight gnus, and one squadron of cavalry. A successful reconnaissance has been made to-day by Colonel Farnsworth, with his regiment (the Eighth Illinois Cavalry), as far as the bridge over the Rappahannock. A small party of scouts only was seen, but they were driven out of the way instantly by an equal number of men. Upon the arrival of the regi- ment near the bridge a piece of artillery opened fire upon it from the opposite bank of the river, but did no damage. Colonel Farnsworth reports from his own observance and from all the information he could obtain that there is only a small force of the enemy at that point. As there will probably be considerable delay in getting the 4,000 men from General Wadsworths command, would the general commanding ap- prove of my giving General Blenker the necessary instructions for his movement, with directions not to move until the 4,000 men alluded to arrive at Manassas, and proceeding ~nyself at once to join him at Fort Monroe? The greater part of Richardsons division reaches Alexandria to-night. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, Commanding, U. S. Army, Second Corps. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April 2, 1862. Adjutant-General THOMAS and Major-General HITCHCOCK: GENERALS: I beg leave to refer to you the following papers: 1st. The Presidents War Order, No. 3, dated March 8, 1862, marked A. 2d. The report of a council held at Headquarters Fairfax Court- House, March 13, marked B. 3d. The Presidents instructions to General ,McClellan, March 13, marked C. 4th. The report of Major-General McClellan, dated on board the steamer Commodore, April 1, addressed to the Adjutant-General [D]. 5th. The report of General Wadsworth as to the forces in his com- mand [E]. And upon examination I desire you to report to me whether the Presidents order and instructions have been complied with in respect to the forces to be left for the defense of Washington and its security and at Manassas, and, if not, wherein those instructions have been de- parted from. Yours, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. A. PRESIDENTS GENERAL EXECUTIVE MANSION, WAR ORDER, No. 3. Washington,, March 8,1862. Ordered, That no change of the base of ol)erations of the Army of the Potomac shall be made without leaving in and about Washingto Page 58 58 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. Xxiii. such a force as in the opinion of the General-in-Chief and the com- manders of all the army corps shall leave said city entirely secure. That no more than two army corps (about 50,000 troops) of said Army of the Potomac shall be moved en route for a new base of operations until the navigation of the Potomac from Washington to the Chesa- peake Bay shall be freed from enemys batteries and other obstructions. or until the President shall hereafter give express permission. That any movement as aforesaid en route for a new base of operations which may be ordered by the General-iu-Chief~ and which may be in- tended to move upon the Chesapeake Bay, shall begin to move upon the bay as early as the 18th day of March instant, and the General-in- Chief shall be responsible that it so move as early as that day. Ordered, That the Army and Navy co-operate in an immediate effort to capture the enemys batteries upon the Potomac between Washing- ton and the Chesapeake Bay. A. LINCOLN. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General. B. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Fairfax Gourt-House, March 13, 1862. A council of the generals commanding army corps at the Headquar- ters Army of the Potomac were of the opinion I. That, the enemy having retreated from Manassas to Gordonsville, behind the Rappahannock and Rapidan, it is the opinion of the gen- erals commanding army corps that the operations to be carried on will be best undertaken from Old Point Comfort, between the York and James River. upon Richmond, provided 1. That the enemys vessel the Merrimac can be neutralized. 2. That the means of transportation sufficient for an immediate transfer of the force to its new base can be ready at Washington and Alexandria to move down the Potomac- and 3. That a naval auxiliary force can be had to silence or aid in silenc- ing the enemys batteries in York River. 4. That the force to be left to cover Washington shall be such as to give an entire feeling of security for its safety from menace. Unanimous: II. If the foregoing cannot be, the army should then be moved against the enemy behind the Rappahannock at the earliest possible moment, and the means for reconstructing bridges, repairing railroads, and stocking them with material sufficient for the supplying the army should at once be collected for both the Orange and Alexandria and the Aquia and Richmond Railroads. Unanimous: NOTE.That, with the forts on the right bank of the Potomac fully garrisoned and those on the left bank occupied, a covering force in front of the Virginia line of 25,000 men would sufflce.KEYEs, HEINT- ZELMAN, MCDOWELL. A total of 40,000 men for the defense of the city would suffice SUMNER. C. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: The President having considered the plan of operations agreed upo Page 59 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 59 by yourself and the commanders of army corps makes no objection to the same, but gives the following directions as to its execution: 1st. Leave such force at Manassas Junction as shall make it entirely certain that the enemy shall not repossess himself of that position and line of communication. 2d. Leave Washington entirely secure. 3d. Move the remainder of the force down the Potomac, choosing a new base at Fort Monroe or anywhere between here and there; or at all events move such remainder of the army at once in pursuit of the enemy by some ronte.* Transmitted 7 oclock 45 minutes. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. D. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Steamer Commodore, Apr11 1, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: GENERAL: I have to request that you will lay the following com- munication before the honorable Secretary of War: The approximate numbers and positions of the troops left .near and in rear of the Potomac are about as follows: General Dix has, after guarding the railroads under his charge, suffi- cient troops to give him 5,000 for the defense of Baltimore and 1,988 available for the Eastern Shore, Annapolis, & c. Fort Delaware is very well garrisoned by about 400 men. The garrisons of the forts around Washington amount to 10,600 men; other disposable troops now with General Wadsworth being about 11,400 men. The troops employed in guarding the various railways in Maryland amount to some 3,359 men. These it is designed to relieve, being old regiments, by dismounted cavalry, and to send forward to Manassas. General Abercrombie occupies Warrenton with a force which, inclad- in g Colonel Geary at White Plains and the ~avalry to be at his dis- posal, will amount to some 7,780 men, with twelve pieces of artillery. I have the honor to request that all the troops organized for service in Pennsylvania and New York and in any of the Eastern States may be ordered to Washington. I learn from Governor Curtin that there are some 3,500 men now ready in Pennsylvania. This force I should be glad to have sent at once to Manassas. Four thousand men from General Wadsworth I desire to be ordered to Manassas. These troops, with the railroad guard above alluded to, will make up a force under the command of General Abercrombie to something like 18,639 men. It is my design to push General Blenkers division from Warrenton upon Strasburg. He should remain at Strasburg long enough to allow matters to assume a definite form in that region before proceeding to his nltimate destination. The troops in the valley of the Shenandoah will thusincluding Blenkers division, 10,028 strong, with twenty-four pieces of artillery; Banks Fifth Corps, which embraces the command of General Shields, 19,687 strong, with forty-one guns; some 3,652 disposable cavalry, and the railroad guards, about 2,100 menamount to about 35,467 men. * See also Stanton to McClellan, March 13, 5.20 p. in., and McClellan to Stanton, 6.15 p.m., same date, Series I, Yol. Y, pp. 750,751 Page 60 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. 60 [CHAP. XXTIL It is designed to relieve General Hooker by one regiment, say 850 men, leaving, with some 500 cavalry, 1,350 men on the Lower Potomac. To recapitulate: Men. At Warrenton there are to be 7 780 At Manassas, say i0 8~9 In the vafley of the Shenandoah 35,467 On the Lower Potomac 1,350 Inall 55,456 There would thus be left for the garrisons and the front of Washing- ton under General Wadsworth some 18 00 teries under instruction. , 0 men, exclusive of the bat- The troops organizing or ready for service in Xew York I learn will probably number more thau 4,000. These should be assembled at Washington, subject to disposition where their services may be most needed. I am, very respectfully, your obedieiit servant, GEO. B. McCLELLAX, liliajor- General, Commanding. E. HDQRS. MILITARY DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON Washington, D. 0., April ~, 1802. Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR: SIR: I have the honor to submit the following condensed statements of the forces left under my command for the defense of Wash~ington: Infantry 15,335 Artillery 4 294 Cavalry (six companies only mounted). - - ~48 20, 477 Deduct sick and in arrest and confinement 1,455 Total present for duty 19,022. I have no mounted light artillery under my command. Several com- panies of the reserve artillery of the Army of the Potomac are still here, but not under my command or fit for service. From this force I am ordered by General McClellan to detail two regiments (good ones) to Richardsons division (Sumners corps) as it passes through Alexandria, one regiment to replace the Thirty-seventh iNew York Volunteers in fleintzelmans old division, one regiment to relieve a regiment of Hookers division at Bndds Ferry; total, four regiments. I am also further ordered this morning by telegraph to send 4,000 m en to relieve General sumner at Manassas and Warrenton, that he may embark forthwith. In regard to the character and efficiency of the troops under my command, I have to state that nearly all the force is new and imper- fectly disciplined; that several of the regiments are in a very disor- ganized condition from various causes which it is not necessary to state here; several regiments having been relieved from brigades which have gone into the field in consequence of their unfitness for service; the best regiinent~ remaining having been selected to take their place. Two heavy artillery regiments and one infantry regiment, which ha Page 61 CHiP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.rJNION. 61 been drilled for some months in artillery service, have been withdrawn from the forts on the sonth side of the Potomac, and I have only Jz~een able to fill their places with very new infantry regiments entirely unac- quainted with the duties of that arm and of present position. little or no value in their I am not informed of the position which Major-General Banks is directed to take, bnt at this time he is, as I understand, on the other side of the Bull Run Mountains, leaving my command to cover the front from Manassas Gap (about 20 miles beyond Manassas) to Aquia Creek. I deem it my duty to state that, looking at the numerical strength and character of the force nnder my command, it is in my judgment entirely inadequate to and unfit for the important duty to which it is assigned. I regard it very improbable that the enemy will assail us at this point, but this belief is based upon the hope that they may be promptly engaged elsewhere and may not learn the number and character of the force left here. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, JAS. S. WADSWORTH, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Answer. WASHINGTON, D. C., A 2, 1862. In compliance with your instructions we have examined the papers submitted to us, and have the honor to make the following report: 1. The Presidents War Order, Ko. 3, dated March 8, requires that on taking up any new base of operations the city of Washington shall be left entirely secure. The other points of the order it is unnecessary to consider, as the enemy, since its date, have abandoned their position and batteries on the Potomac and retired behind the Rappahannock. 2. The council of general officers held at Fairfax Court-House, March 13, took place after the enemy had retired from Manassas and destroyed the railroads in their rear. The council decided unanimously to take up a new base of operations from Fort Monroe, and three of the gen- erals, a majority, decided that the force necessary to be left should be sufficient to fully garrison the forts on the right bank of the Poto- mac, and to occnpy those on the left bank with a covering force of 25,000. It is, we think, the judgment of officers that some 30,000 men would be necessary thus to man these forts, which, with the number of the covering force, wonld make a total of 55,000. 3. The Presidents directions of March 13 to General McClellan directs: 1st. To leave such a force at Manassas Junction as shall make it entirely certain that the enemy may not repossess it. 2d. That Washington shall be left entirely secure. 3d. That the remainder of the army move down the Potomac or move in pursuit of the enemy. In regard to occupying Manassas Junction, as the enemy have de- stroyed the railroads leading to it it may be fair to assum.e that they have no intention of returning for the reoccupation of their late posi- tion, and therefore no very large force would be necessary to hold that position. 4. Major-General McClellans report to the Adjutant-General of April 1, after giving the several positions of the troops propo~ed to be left for the defense of Washington, gives a representation as follows Page 62 62 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. Men. At Warrenton there are to be 7, 780 At Manassas, say. 10, ss~ In the valley of the Shenandoah. 35, 467 On the Lower Potomac - . 1, 350 In all 55,456 And there would be left for the garrisons and the front of Washington, under General Wadsworth, some 18,000. In the above enumeration General Banks army corps is included, but whether this force operating in the Shenandoah Valley should be regarded as part of the force available for the protection of the imme- diate front of Washington the undersigned express no opinion. 5. General Wadsworths report of April 2 gives his force as follows: Infantry 15,335 Artillery 4 294 Cavalry (six companies only mounted) 848 Deduct sick, in arrest, and confinement 20, 477 1,455 Total for duty 19, 022 From this force General Wadsworth is directed to detach two good regiments to iRichardsons division, Sumners corps, which should be deducted from his command; one regiment to replace f lie Thirty-sev- enth New York in lleintzelmans old division, and one regiment to re- lieve a regiment of Hookers division at Budds Ferry; total, four reg- iments. He is also ordered to send 4 000 Manassas and Warrenton. , men to relieve Sumner at General Wadsworth represents that he has no mounted light artil- lery under his command; states there are several companies of reserve artillery sfill here, but not under his command or fit for service. General Wadsworth further reports that nearly all the force is new and imperfectly disciplined; that several of the regiments are in a very disorganized condition, some of them having been relieved from bri- gades which have gone into the field in consequence of their nnfitness for service, the best regiments remaining having been selected to take their places. Two heavy artillery regiments and one infantry regiment which had been drilled for months in artillery service have been with- drawn from the forts on the south side of the Potomac and their places supplied with new infantry regiments entirely unacquainted with the duties of that arm and of little or no value in their present position. If there was need of a military force for the safety of the city of Washington within its own limits that referred to in the report of Gen- eral Wadsworth would seem to be entirely inadequate. In view of the opinion expressed by the council of the commanders of army corps of the force necessary for the defense of the capital, though not numerically stated, and of the force represented by General McClellan as left for that purpose, we are of opinion that the require- ment of the President that this city shall be left entirely secure, not only in the opinion of the General-in-Chief~ but that of the commanders of all the army corps also, has not been fully complied with. All of which is respectfully submitted. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General. E. A. HITCHCOCK, Major-General Volunteers, U. S. Army Page 63 CHAP. XXIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 63 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 2, 1862. ORDER OF MARCH. Porters and Hamilton~s divisions, of the Third Army Corps, and Sedg- ~ and Averells cavalry, of the Second Army Corps, under Briga- dier-General Heintzelman, will move on the 4th instant in the following order: Porters division, with Averells cavalry, at 6 a. in., over the New Market and New Bridges, on both roads, to Big Bethel and Howards Bridge. This division will send forward to the batteries where the road to Ship Point diverges from the main Yorktown road a force sufficient to occupy that point and cut off the garrison of Ship Point batteries. The remainder of the division will camp at Howards Creek. Hamiltons division will march at 7 a. m. by the road over the New Bridge to Big Bethel, and will camp as near as possible to Howards Creek. Sedgwicks division will march at 8 a. m. over the New Market Bridge, taking the direct road to Big Bethel. This division will camp as close as possible to Hamiltons. The first two divisions of the Fourth Corps, nnder Brigadier-General Keyes, will move on the 4th instant at 6 a. in. by the James River road. Smiths division to Youngs Mill, sending one brigade forward to the road from Big Bethel to Warwick. Couchs division will camp at Fishers Creek. The reserve artillery and infantry will move at 9 oclock on the 4th instant by the New Market Bridge and the direct road to Big Bethel, then taking the Warwick Court-House road, and camp in the vicinity of the junction of this road with the Youngs Mill road. By command of Major-General McClellan: Assistant Adjutant-General. HAMPTON ROADS, April 3, 186212.15 a. m. (Received 10 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Have seen Goldsborough, and feel sure that he will crush the Merri- mac if she appears. Hope to move to-morrow. My only trouble is the scarcity of wagons, but 1 will overcome the difficulty in some way or other. We shall not get through without a hard battle, and perhaps morethanone, butlamconfidentthat we will win. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HAMPTON ROADS, April 3, 186212.20 a. in. Hon. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War: We need many more tugs; please send ten more here at once. If you can procure promptly about six light-draught ferry-boats they would be of great use. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 64 64 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXHIq WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., April 3, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Hampton Roads: The additional ferry-boats and tugs required shall be sent promptly if it is possible to obtain them. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant & cretary of War. FORTRESS MONROE, April 3, 1862. (Received April 3, 18628.10 p. in.) General SUMNER: I expect to move from here to-morrow morning on Yorktown, where a force of some 15,000 of the rebels are in intrenched position, and I think it quite possible they will attempt to resist us. No appearance of the Merrimac as yet. Commodore Goldsborough is quite confident he can sink her when she comes out. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Warrenton Junction, 4pril 3, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I am under orders to proceed to Fort Monroe, where my command is being rapidly concentrated, as soon as General Abercrombie reaches this place with his brigade and when I hear the additional force ordered from General Wadsworths command is approaching Manassas. Gen- eral Abercrombi~ arrived last night with 5,200 men. Colonel Gearys lorce of 1.400 men is expected shortly, and the brigade of 3,OOO men from Blenkers division, ordered to be left at this point after General Blenker marches with two brigades to report at Strasbnrg to General Banks, will make in all 9,600 at this place. Shall I proceed at once to the head of my corps at Fort Monroe? I would ask the favor of an early reply. E. V. SUMNER. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 3, 1862. Brigadier-General SUMNER: Your telegram has been received. The Department does not require any change in the instructions given you by General McClellan. You will proceed according to his instructions, and embark your forces as soon as you are satisfied there is in position sufficient force to hold the country. General McDowell has been ordered to supply the force that was directed to be furnished by General Wadsworth for the relief of your force at Manassas and Warrenton. EDWIN M. STANTON, & eretary of War Page 65 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 65 WARRENTON JUNCTION, April 3, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: There are no troops now here belonging to my army corps except Farnsworths cavalry, and this regiment is ordered to remain here till the two regiments of horse arrive which have been ordered here. Rich- ardsons division, the last of my corps, went to Alexandria yesterday, by order of General McClellan. Under these circumstances, is it in- tended that I shall stay here till the troops from McDowells corps reach Manassas? E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Gommanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 3, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER, Warrenkrn Junction: You are expected to hold your position until relieved by such force as you think sufficient to maintain it This I understand to be [the] import of the order given you by General Marcy this evening. It is desirable that nothing should be abandoned that has been gained from the enemy if it can be held. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAIL DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., April 3, 186212.20 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL, Commanding Fort Monroe, Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding the Army of the Potomac: The orders recently issued from this Department, placing the troops within the command of Major-General Wool at the disposal of Major- General McClellan, will not be so construed as to authorize a reduction of the force under General Wool below what, in the opinion of General Wool, may be necessary for the safety of his position and its depend- encies. General Wool will continue in command of Fort Monroe and the troops heretofore assigned to the Department of Virginia, and Gen- eral McClellan will command the troops. constituting the Army of the Potomac. All prior orders conflicting with this order are revoked. By order of the President: L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General. EXECUTIVE MANSION, April 3, 1862. The Secretary of War will order that one or the other of the corps of Genl~ral McDowell and General Sumner remain in front of Washington until further orders from the Department, to operate at or in the diree- 5 R RYOL XI, PT II Page 66 66 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIIL tion of Manassas Junction, or otherwise, as occasion may require; that the other corps not so ordered to remain go forward to General McClel- lan as speedily as possible; that General McClellan commence his for- ward movements from his ne\v base at once, and that such incidental modifications as the foregoing may rendei proper be also made. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, April 4, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, U. S. A., Commanding Army of the Potomac, Port Monroe: GENERAL: The President, deeming the force to be left in front of Washington insufficientto insure its safety, has directed that McDowells army corps should be detached from the forces operating under your immediate direction. Major-General McDowell has accordingly been instructed to report for orders to the Secretary of War. Colonel Bayards regiment of cavalry has been reannexed to McDowells army corps by the Secretarys direc- tion. The Secretary has also directed that Colonel Itucker, Quarter- master Department, shall remain on duty in this city, and that no troops shall be sent to relieve those near Manassas, in view of the new arrange- ments of McDowells corps. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. FORT MONROE, VA., April 4, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: We are getting on very quietly and harmoiliously. Major-General McClellan will move to-day on Yorktown. I will with my force oc- cupy the stations abandoned by the rebels as the general advances~ This will protect his left flank, which will relieve him from the neces- sity of a strong force to protect his rear and left flank, which was sug- gested by myself, which the general readily assented to, and as a much better plan than giving up Newport News. Captain Nims battery is still here, and cannot get away for several days. I consulted General McClellan on the batteries remaining here. He says General Butler is very well supplied with artillery. This battery or some other will be indispensable to assist in maintaining the positions which no doubt will be abandoned on James River when the Army of the Potomac ad- vances toward Richmond. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. BIG BETHEL, VA., April 4, 18625.50 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Our advance is at Cockletown, within 5 miles, of Yorktown. Slight skirmishing to-day. Have turned Ship Point battery. Our cavalry probably in it now. I push supplies and troops on it at once, makin Page 67 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 67 it a new depot. It is said by deserters and inhabitants that re-enforce- inents are arriving at Yorktown from Richmond. I expect to fight to- morrow, as I shall endeavor to cut the commnnicatioii between York- town and Richmond. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. GREAT BETHEL, April 410.30 p. in., (Via Fort Monroe, April 510 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have occupied Ship Point battery, which is very strong. The enemy evince determination to hold Yorktown. In that case we shall have fighting to-morrow. I move all my available troops at an early hour in the morning. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIST. OF WASHINGTON, D. C., April 4, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. 0.: SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 28th ultimo I was or- dered by General McClellan to assign from my command two good regiments to Frenchs and Howards brigades, Richardsons division, Sumners corps, to join that command in its embarkation at Alexandria. 1 was likewise ordered at the same time to replace the Thirty-seventh New York Volunteers in Heintzel mans division, that it (the Thirty- seventh) might be assigned to Meaghers brigade. Referring you to my letter of the 2d instant for a statement of the character and amount of the force at this point and the reasons for urging that it should not be diminished, I have now further to state that, after a careful inspection of the forces under my command I do not find any regiments fit to take the field. I beg leave to ask your instructions under these circumstances. As Sumners corps will em- bark, as I understand, to-morrow, it is desirable that I should receive your command at once. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. S. WADSWORTH, Brigadier- General and Military Governor. WASHINGTON, D - C., April 4, 1862. (Sent 2.30 p. m.~ Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Fort Monroe: Two new departments have this day been created: one called the De- partment of the Shenandoah, under the command of Major-General Banks, comprising that portion of Virginia and Maryland lying between the Mountain Department and the Blue Ridge; the other to be calle Page 68 68 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXUL the Department of the Rappahannock under the command of Major- Q~eneral MeiDowell, comprising that portion of Virginia east of the Blue Ridge and west of the Potomac and the Fredericksburg and Rich- mond Railroad, including the District of Columbia aiid the country be- tween the Pot6mac and Patuxent. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Fort Monroe, April 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. I. MCDOWELL, Commanding First Corps: GENERAL: The information I have obtained here has induced me to move forward the troops for whom I have wagons, in order to invest Yorktown. I still think that it will be advisable for you to land at least one di- vision on the Severn, in order to insure the fall of Gloucester. I have therefore telegraphed to Franklin and Rucker to get your First Divis- ion embarked as soon as possible (supposing you will be here by this morning) to make this movement. I hope to turn the battery at Ship Point this afternoon or early to- morrow morning and to get in rear of Yorktown to-morrow. I can therefore tell to-morrow what is the best (hsposition to make of your corps. It will l)robably be best to land one division on the Severn and to hold the others ready to move up the York River immediately upon the fall of Yorktown. My headquarters will be at Big Bethel to-night. I had a full conversation with Flag-Officer Goldsborough and Captain Missroon last evening, and would be glad if you will see them also. You know that we are substantially weakened to the extent of two divisions; first, by the loss of Blenker; next, by the rescinding of the order placing this fort and its dependencies under my command. If you can get up to Big Bethel I can take care of you to-night and make you comfortable. Should I miss you, I will write fully, as events --develop themselves. Very truly, yours, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. FORT MONROE, April 5, 18621 p. m. :ilon. K. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have heard some firing in the direction of Yorktown. Two or three regiments have gone to Shipping Point, where a depot is to be established for the Army of the Potomac. From information received to-day it appears that the Merrimac is in the dry-dock, loaded with coal. She is to come out of the dock to-day with two more guns, one of large caliber. I have moved up troops to protect McClellans left flank. All goes on very smoothly. I do not believe the Army of the Potomac will find many troops to contend with. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General Page 69 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 69 HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Youngs Mill, April 5, 18626 a. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: SIR: The liead of Smiths column is now in motion toward War- wick Court-House. From the best information I can obtain there is a large force, with three guns in position and strong breastworks, about 6 miles from here, on the direct road to the Half-way House, at a place cafled Lees Mill. It is my opinion that we shall encounter very serious resistance. If so, we shall not be able to reach the Half-way House on the Yorktown and Williamsburg road to-day. As far as I can learn the best way to send me re-enforcements will be to take the road to the left from the road to Yorktown near Dr. Powers house. I respectfully suggest that a strong reserve force be within my reach. General Smith states that he has no reserve ammunition for his artillery. Our wagons did not arrive last night, and we shall be obliged to halt at Warwick Court-House for the infantry reserve ammunition to come up. It is a heavy march to the Half-way House even without opposition, and at Warwick Court-House our train would ~e liable to capture. I shall leave a regiment and a portion of a battery there; but I would respeetfully suggest that at least a brigade be ordered forward to that point from Newport News or some other force below. As we have no reserve artillery ammunition, I would respectfully suggest that two batteries of the reserve artillery be sent forward to me without delay. I shall send this by an officer, in order that you may send word back to me immediately, and also that he may bring me information as to the roads. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Corps. P. S.7.15 a. m. The roads are very bad ahead. Shall I push on to Half-way House if artillery cannot get along fast enough 0? I suppose not, of course. In haste, E. D. KEYES. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, One mile beyond Warwick 6~ourt-House, April 5, 186211 a. m. Brig. Gen. H. B. MARCY Chief of & aff, Army of the Potomac: SIR: The last of General Smiths division has just closed up at Warwick Court-House, the First Brigade being in line of battle at this point. Two contrabands report that the enemy is in very great strength just in front of us, with the means of overflowing the ground in front of his strongest battery, which is at a distance estimated by them between 1~ and 3 miles. I am trying to get information, but as yet have nothing except vague conjecture to send, nor can I ascertain much about the roads between this and your headquarters. I have, however, found a mulatto, who professes to know the road and will go over as a guide. I will send another dispatch in a very short time by another road, as I fear there may be great uncertainty about this reach- ing you Page 70 70 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII The roads are execrable at one point near this. The empty ambu- lances could not get through, and a road had to be cut through the woods. This dispatch has been delayed in the hope that I might get some positive information to send, bnt I have as yet not succeeded. It will be as much as the wagons can do to arrive here during the whole day, and considering the proximity to the river, I am more and more of opinion that a large force should be sent up from below to protect them. The engineers are now out making a reconnaissance. As soon as they return I will make another report. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH Amwv Coups, One mile beyond Warwick Court-House, April 5, 15623 p.m. Brig. Gen. It. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: SIR: I am in receipt of your note of this date of 9.50 a. m. I am stopped by the enemys works at Lees Mill, which offer a severe resistance. The road through the woods for nearly a mile having become absolutely impassable for artillery, I am cutting a new road through. One battery is replying to the enemy and another is nearly or quite through. The whole of Smiths division is in front of the woods and moving up, and I have just detached Grahams brigade (Couchs division) to my left and front to intercept the enemys riflemen, which General Smith reports have gone down Warwick River to their right. I have not been able yet to ascertain the strength of the enemy. His position is a strong one, and I learn from a mulatto, who appears to be quite intelligent, that Warwick River is nowhere fordable, having been dammed up iu several places all the way to the pond at the head of it, which is only a few miles from Yorktown. He states also that there are fortifications in a number of places along the river. Mulberry Island is therefore a very strong place. The river is without bridges, and a canal-boat near the mill was burned this morning. The mulatto also states that the enemy are very much afraid of the gunboats, which they expect to attack Yorktown, and says that they will retreat if the boats appear. I have still one brigade left at Warwick Courtllouse, and I deem it necessary to have them remain there until relieved. Youngs Mill is also a very strong place is defensible on both sides, and a force should also be stationed there. Inclosed I send you the result of the examination of three prisoners, belonging to the Tenth Georgia Regiment, and just now brought within our lines. 5.15 p. mii.Since writing the above Smith has continued to engage the enemy in front, and he can hold his position easily enough. At this moment he is sending out a party to his right, to see if he can turn their works. I have sent two regiments of Grahams brigade down to onr left, and he reports that he has discovered a battery 2 or 3 miles below the works we were previously engaging above. He was fired npon from two guns. About two hours ago the enemy were seen filing out of their works and going down the Warwick River, and I this moment learn fro Page 71 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.UNION. 71. 43~eneral Couch that he has just seen them some distance below Lee8 Mill, on the opposite side of that river, moving down. I have been busy ever since, and am now engaged in endeavoring to ascertain what this movement means, and have returned to Warwick Court-House for that purpose, where I shall probably remain to-night, unless iieeded elsewhere. For the present I consider this the most important point for me to be in, until I learn the meaning of the enemys movement dowii the river. My scouts now report the enemy down at the left. I remain, & c., E. P. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Army Corps. TOWN, April 5 1862 NEAR AYoRK , 7.30 p. m. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: The enemy are in large force along our front, and apparently intend making a determined resistance. A reconnaissance just made by Gen- eral Barnard shows that their line of works extends across the entire Peninsula from Yorktown to Warwick River. Many of them are very formidable. Deserters say they are being re-enforced daily from Rich- mond and from Norfolk. Under these circumstances I beg that you will reconsider the order detaching the First Corps from my command. In my deliberate judgment the success of our cause will be imperiled by so greatly i-educing my force when it is actually under the fire of the enemy and active operations have commenced. Two or three of my divisions have been under fire of artillery most of the day. I am now of the opinion that I shall have to fight all the available force of the rebels not far from here. Do not force me to do so with diminished numbers. But whatever yonr decision may be, I will leave nothing undone to obtain success. If you cannot leave me the whole of the First Corps, I urgently ask that I may not lose Franklin and his division. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Commanding Fort Monroe: Please say whether you have received Adjutant-Generals order plac- ing Fort Monroe and vicinity entirely under your command. Send a boat across to-night with full report of to-days proceedimigs. Direct ileiss and the party engaged in laying the cable to lose no time, if [the] - weather calm, in getting ready. They should leave Fort Monroe early in the morning and be at the break by daylight. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Big Bethel, April 5, 1862. Brig. Gen. STEWART VAN VLIET, Acting Quartermaster- General, Army of the Potomac, Fort Monroe: GENERAL: I am directed by the commanding general to say that he finds the enemy in force a short distance in front, and too strongly in Page 72 72 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. trenched to admit of his positions being carried by assault. It may, and probably will, therefore, unless the enemy should retire, of which there are at present no indications, be necessary for I he commanding general to resort to some of the operations of a siege, aud he wishes you to forward withont delay to Shipping Point the siege train and mortars; also Colonel Tylers regiment. He also desires you to establish a large depot for all kinds of supplies at Shipping Point, and thinks it would be well for you to send Colonel Ingalls at once to that place to make extensive arrangements for the forwarding of stores up the Poquosin River to the vicinity of Howards Bridge. Boats drawing about 5 feet will be necessary for this purpose. The troops that may henceforth arrive at Fort Monroe for the Army of the Potomac will until further orders be sent to Shipping Point. War- rens regiment may come up that route, unless he has transportation, in which event he can march. General Casey, as soon as you can sup- ply him with transportation, is to join General Keyes. The commanding general desires me to impress upon you the neces- sity of throwing forward supplies of all kinds as rapidly as possible. You are desired to inform Mr. Eckert that the general wishes him to establish a telegraph line at once between headquarters and Shipping Point. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. FORT MONROE, VA., April 6, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have received your dispatches of the 5th instant. I have not received your order referred to, but Major-General McClellan showed me the order. We are getting on very harmoniously, and I am doing all I can to aid the general in his movements. I will send you a report by mail showing the difficulties we have to contend with. Transporta- tion is much wanted. Having, however, established a depot at Ship Point, it will relieve us much. The greatest want is experienced in the staff of the army. I think I will be able to do much in that respect for Major-General McClellan. The great trouble is to get rid of the useless baggage in the possession of regiments. I will again telegraph at 4 oclock, when it is probable I will be able to give you important information. I received none of importance since the telegram sent you about 4 oclock p. m. JOHN E. WOOL ]Jfajor- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April 6, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL, Fort ]Jfonroe: Please let me know fully the state of operations toward Yorktown, and whether it is necessary to send more than Sumners corps, which is on the way down. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 73 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 73 FORT MONROE, April 6, 1862. (Received 7th, 11 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Nothing of importance has occurred to-day at Yorktown. ~Baron Vegesack, my aide-de-camp, has just reti~rned from the headquarters of General McClellan, but brings no news. It is thought that a strong demonstration will be made to-morrow against Yorktown The baron reports that a large number of troops have arrived in last two or three days from Richmond. Magruder has 3Q,OOO men. We are shipping forward troops and supplies to Ship Point; many are without rations~ JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 6, 1862. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Fort Monroe: Your instructions to lVIcDowell did not appear to contemplate the removal of his force until some time this week. The enemy were re- ported to be still in force at Gordonsville and Fredericksburg, and threatening Winchester and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The force under Banks and Wadsworth was deemed by experienced mili- tary men inadequate to protect Winchester and the railroad, and was much less than had been fixed by your corps commanders as necessary to secure Washington. It was thought best, therefore, to detach either McDowell or Sumner, and as part of Sumners corps was already with you, it was concluded to retain McDowell. Your advance on Yorktown gratified me very much, and I hope you will press forward and carry the enemys works and soou be at Richmond. The order organizing the new department will not in any degree affect your control over all the supplies, transportation, and material that has been left behind or that you may at any time require. The whole force and material of the Government wilt be as fully and speedily under your command as heretofore or as if the new department had not been created. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 6, 1862. (Received April 6, 3 p. in.) ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: The order forming new departments, if rigidly enforced, deprives me- of the power of ordering up wagons and troops absolutely necessary t~ enable me to advance to Richmond. I have by no means the transpor- tation I must have to move my army even a few miles. I respectfully request I may not be placed in this position, but that my orders for wagon trains, ammunition, and other material that I have prepared and necessarily left behind, as well as Woodbury~s brigade, may at once be complied with. The enemy is strong in my front, and I have a most serious task be- fore me, in the fulfillment of which I need all the aid the Governmen Page 74 74 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. can give me. I again repeat the urgent request that General Franklin and his division may be restored to my command. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Two miles and a half from Yorktown, April 6, 18621.35 p. m. ~eneral LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. ~. Army: GENERAL: Our reconnaissances thus far confirm the strength of the enemys position. I am now satisfied that I was correct in my state- ment of his general position last night. Things are quiet to-daybut little firing; we remaining quiet in order not to draw attention to our reconnoitering parties. I see the secession colors as I write. It is clear that the enemy intend to fight us, and I think equally clear that we will be obliged to use our heavy artillery. The balloon has been of great service to-day. I am more and more satisfied that the services of the First Corps are necessary. I cannot dispense with Woodburys Engineer Brigade. The order in regard to new departments is received. I fear the movement it indicates of an advance on Richmond in two isolated col- umns is a mistake: it will probably enable the rebels to concentrate on one while he holds the other in check. I will take Yorktown, but it may be a slow process. Very respectfully, yours, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 6, 18628 p. m. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General: 1 examined works on enemys left very carefully to-day. They are very strong; the approaches difficult; enemy in force, and the water batteries at York and Gloucester said to be much increased. Have not seen them myself. Have not yet received reports of engineer officers. I go to-morrow to examine our left. Sharp firing on our right for some time to-day while I was there. No harm done, although their shells burst handsomely. Am receiving supplies from Ship Point, repairing roads, getting up siege guns, & c. It seems now almost certain that we must use mortars and heavy guns freely before assaulting. The naval officers urge an attack on rear of Gloucester. I think they are right, but I am now too weak to attempt it unless new circnmstances come to my knowledge. The aiThir will be protracted in consequence of the diminution of my forces. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General. IIDQRS. FOURTH CORPS, WARWICK COURT-HOUSE, VA., April 6, 18625.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: I received your note of 5p. m. yesterday. The & nemy, I find, is very strongly posted; but I am not yet certain of the extent of his work Page 75 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 75 or the number of his troops. He appars to be in good spirits, and his works are certainly very extensive. My line of front is now very long, and still I cannot find the upper end of his works. If I had more troops I would send them up and try to turn them. Wherever the enemy has shown himself I have shown a force to confront him, and I think he must suppose I have an immense army. Everything has been quiet through the night. The roads are so bad that I have only been able to get forward but few guns. My forage is out, and I take care not to make any false moves to exhaust men or horses. I watch with small numbers, and only move masses for a sure purpose. I am not at all afraid of any attack of the enemy on me, but the badness of the roads and approaches may detain us here some time and the enemy may be strengthened. I cannot find out anything about the roads from this point to Ship Point of sufficient certainty to depend on that depot for my forage and rations. I have written to Casey to send 200 pioneers to repair the roads from Newport News up, and to the commissary and quarter- master at Old Point to send up supplies from those places. We must have forage or our animals will give out, and our rations will be out to-morrow. in great haste, 1 remain, your most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier-General, Commanding Fourth Corps. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY Coups, Warwick Court-House, April 6, 18629 a. m. Brigadier-General MARCY: SIR: I received your dispatch of 10.40 p. in. of April 5 one hour ago. I have issned all necessary orders to obtain supplies from Poquo- sin Creek or Ship Point; also the orders for reconnaissance, explora- tion of the roads, & c. The guide you speak of did not come over. A train is just about to start to the supply depot. Inclosed are copies of this days orders so far. This letter goes with a dispatch to Major- General McClellan. Please say to the general that the enemys works directly in front of General Smiths division cannot be carried by assault, and that I think some light 8-inch mortars can be used to advantage if we can get them up, with the ammunition. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Army Corps. UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH. (Received April 6, 1~62, from uear Yorktown.) Commander JOHN RODGERS, U. S. N., Washington: All my arrangements are completely changed by recent orders. I will telegraph you as soon as 1 know anytliing definite. GEG. B. MCQLELLAN, Major- General Page 76 76 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAP. Xliii. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, April 7, 1862. (Received 7.20 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON Secretary of War, Washington, D. 0.: In reply to your dispatch of the 6th, just received, I would remark that I am not sufficiently informed to answer it definitely. I directed tlie commanding officers, before the arrival of Major-General McClellan, to make a field return of their troops, but, belonging to the Army of the Potomac, they did not consider themselves bound to obey the order~ and no returns were made. Consequently I have no means of ascertain- ing accurately the strength of the Army of the Potomac. From a conversation with General McClellan I am induced to believe that with General Sumners corps he must have over 100,000 men, with a large train of artillery. He informs me that the enemy has in and about Yorktown 30,000 men. If the enemy is no stronger I should think he had a sufficient force to overcome it. He complains, however, of tak- ing from him 45,000 men under McDowell, which he says compels him to change his plan of operations. What these were he has not in- formed me. In the course of the day I may be able to inform you whether more troops are needed. - I would remark, how ever, that his rear and left flank are protected by my troops. This morning a regiment of infantry and a section of artillery occupies Youngs Mill. (See the map I send you.)* I have ordered a regiment of infantry, Nims battery (still here), and five companies of Colonel Harlans cavalry to be ready to move to guard the left flank as soon as Brigadier-General Caseys division moves on to join the troops at Yorktown. JOHN E. N~OOL. lIfajor- General. FORT MONROE VA Hon. E. M. STANTON, April 7, 1862. Secretary of War: I have not heard from General McClellan since yesterday. Baron Vegesack, by whom I sent dispatches to the general, returned last evening at 8 oclock. Informed me that a strong reconnaissance would be made to-day. Yesterday and the day before considerable firing took place between the contending parties, when some 12 or 15 were killed. How many were wounded was not stated. Some confusion has been caused for want of transportation. A great deal of property has been left at various places without a guard, and is being picked up by my troops. This is in consequence of the commanding officers of divisions and brigades neglecting to obtain the requisite transportation and staff officers neglecting to take care of their property. I find that the troops have an immense quantity of useless baggage. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. NEAR YORKTOWN, VA., A [7,?] 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Gommanding Department of Virginia: M~ DEAR GENERAL: Your dispatch of the 6th * was duly received through Major Von Herrmann, whom I invited to remain hereyesterday, *Not found Page 77 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 77 that he might have some little opportunity of seeing the state of affairs, and give you an intelligent account. Our reconnaissance of yesterday shows the strength of the enemys position. The Warwick River grows worse the more you look at it. We are working away as hard as we can, but have terrible storms and horrid roads. My impression now is that it will prove best to attack either York- town itself or the space between it and head of Warwick, although the works are heaviest there, but we would then get a better approach. It is now pretty much reduced to a choice between one approach that is blocked by a marsh impassable under fire, and another that is pass- able, but completely swept by artillery. I think we will have to choose the latter, and reduce their artillery to silence. I regret exceedingly that I have been deprived of the First Corps, and thus obliged to give up the movement we talked aboutfrom the Severn upon the rear of Gloucester. But I have lost about 50,000 men since I commenced this operation, and do not feel strong enough to de- tach from what I now have, for when all my people are up I shall not have more than, say, 68,000 for duty. General Joe Johnston has arrived in Yorktown, so prisoners say, with heavy re-enforcements. All the troops of Manassas are coming in, and they say that they intend fighting the first battle here. I wish the Merrimac would come out, so that we could get our gun- boats up the James River through all the local force of large vessels at Yorktown. I doubt whether the Merrimac will come out to fight. In haste, I am, my dear general, your anxious and obliged friend, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS, near Yorktown, April 7, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I propose to issue the following order if it meets your approval: GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 2. S Near Yorktown, ApriL 7, i862. This army having advanced into Southeastern Virginia for the purpose of compell- in g submission to the laws of the United States, and extensive military operations therein being found necessary for the suppression of the existing rebellion, the gen eral commanding deems it absolutely necessary, for the protection of the inhabitants and their property and the good order of the army, to establish that unwritten code of law which civilization has provided for the exigencies of a condition of war, how- ever produced. It is therefore ordered First. That martial law be, and the same is hereby, declared to exist in and about all places occupied by the forces of the army for any and every military purpose, and in and about all its moving columns and detachments, of whatever kind. Second. That all acts committed where martial law is thus declared to exist, either by officers, soldiers, or other persons connected with this army, or by inhabitants or other persons, which are commonlyrecognized as crimes against society, or which may be done in contravention of the established rules of war, shall be punishable by a course of military commission. Third. Among the acts that are made punishable are murder, rape, malicious per- sonal injuries, arson, robberies, theft, and wanton trespass, including also all attempts to perpetrate such acts; provided, however, that no cause already cognizable by court- martial shall be tried by military commission. Fourth. Military commissions under this order shall be appointed, governed, and conducted, their proceedings reviewed, and their sentences executed as nearly as practicable in accordance with courts-martial; provided that all punishments under military commission shall be of the description generally affixed throughout the United & ates to similar offenses. GEG. B. McCLELLAN Page 78 78 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CnAP. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Warwick Court-House, Va., April 8, 1862. Brigadier-General MARCY, Chief of Stafl~: SIR: Nothing has occurred during the night worthy of note. General Peek was very busy and brought me valuable information. One of his men swam across to an island, then crossed the island down near James River, and found himself within a hundred yards of Mulberry Island, where he saw the enemys pickets. He also saw a camp on the spit between Warwick and James Rivers. For the information of Major-General McClellan I send a copy of my note to General Smith to withdraw his masses from the enemys shot and shell. Under that order and the remarks of General McClel- lan General Smith has withdrawn his division some 3 miles away to the right, with the exception of Davidsons brigade, which I fortunately intercepted before it moved. General Smiths orders to Davidson re- quired the withdrawal of all his pickets from the front occupied by Smiths division yesterday. It appears, therefore, that General Smith has entirely mistaken his orders, unless he received orders from General McClellan which I did not hear, General McClellan having only, as I understood him, reiterated my orders that General Smith should with- draw his men not on duty as outguards, & c., to camps far enough to the rear and right to be out of the range of the enemys shot and shells. I consider all safe, but I have not yet learned the exact position of Smith with his two brigades. I am doing everything possible to get np supplies, and I have deemed it prudent to send a train to Newport News for small rations, having been informed by Captain Taylor that he has shipped them to that point. I have directed General Casey to send forward a brigade to Youngs Mill, to which point the roads are practicable, as soon as he gets trans- portation. I am afraid just now to bring more troops here, for fear they will starve until the roads are improved. Professor Lowe asks me for six wagons to bring up his balloon. I cannot furnish one until I get up forage and provisions. If the front occupied by Smith yesterday is assailed, Graham and Davidson have two brigades and a battery or two to oppose him. I do not fear that the enemy will cross in force anywhere, but he is more likely to assail my right if he would do much damage. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, fJonmmanding Fourth Army Corps. WAR DEPARTMENT Major-General MCCLELLAN, Washington, D. C., April 8, 1862. Heed quarters, near Yorktown: Your two telegrams of the 7th instant have just been received.1O oclock p. in., Tuesday, 8th April. Your proclamation is approved, and I will send by mail the proceed- ings of a military commission for similar offenses lately in Missouri, which are a good form of procedure. Your telegram respecting military operations was received at the same time and will be submitted early in the morning for the consid- eration of the President. We have official information, this momen Page 79 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 79 received from General ilalleck, confirming the capture of a great num- her of prisoners and immense quantity of military stores and artillery at Island No. 10, and also of a brilliant victory by General Grant and Buells advance corps over Beauregard at Pittsburg. We hope even greater results from your operations, and are longing to send the shout of victory from the Chesapeake to the Mississippi. EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 8, 1862. Flag-Officer L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH: Mv DEAR SIR: Your kind letter received. From the information received thus far I am inclined to think that the masked battery on the river bank below Yorktown is not in existence, but that the gun fired upon Missroon was from the advanced bastion of the place itself. Porter thinks that he has found a place from which we can enfilade their water batteries. I go there in a few minutes to look at it. Should it prove to be so, we can enable the gunboats to take an effective part in the contest. The weather is infamous; has be en raining hard for the last fourteen hours and still continues. The roads are horrid, and we have the devils own time about supplies. I have made strong representations as to the withdrawal of the First Corps, which has forced me to abandon the Severn movement, and hope that the President may be induced to change his order. Persons say that Joe Johnston has assumed command; that heavy re-enforcements are arriving, and that they intend to fight the great battle here. I am probably weaker than they now are or soon will be, but I will whip them in spite of the fact [that] 50,000 men have been withdrawn from my command since I commenced the operation. This reduction of force necessitates more caution on my part. The position of the enemy is considered strong, but we are learning more of it every hour. Our men behave splendidly; brave and patient as men can be. I will communicate with Missroon this morning and write you fully to-night. In great haste, sincerely, your friend, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. Porters camp is just shelling range; his pickets and sharpshooters are near enough to pick off their cannoneers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Yorktown, April 8, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. ~. Army: GENERAL: I send herewith copies of letters received by me from Flag-Officer Goldsborough and Captain Missroon in regard to defenses of Yorktown and Gloucester. The Severn movemeilt was abandoned in consequence of the sudden decrease of my force. I had arrange Page 80 80 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. the mattei~ with the flag-officer before I was informed of the decrease of my army. The proposed landing at the sand Box was obviated by the fact that my left turned the enemys line at Howards Bridge. With the request that the inclosed papers may be laid before the Secretary and the President, I am, respectfully, yours, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, - Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosure No. 1.1 U. S. STEAMER MINNESOTA, Hampton Roads, Sunday, April 6, 18623.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Va.: M~ DEAR GENERAL: Just this moment received your dispatch of last night. The Mystic is not here, nor do I expect her for some time to come. Until the guns on Gloucester Point be turned by the movement up the Severn it will be wholly impracticable, in my judgment, for the small naval force I can now detail to assist you to attack the forts at Yorktown and Gloucester with any prospect of success, unless, forsooth, it be practicable to run past those forts at night and so get on the inside of them and assail them in flank. Of this Missroon may judge. Tell him what I say. You know my position here. I dare not leave the Merri- mac and consorts unguarded. Were she out of the way everything I have here should be at work in your behalf; but as things stand you must not count upon my sending any more vessels to aid your opera. tions than those I mentioned to you. Some of them are now at and about York River, under Missroon, and the other three I hold here to move with your division up the Severn if you still intend to send over there, and, if you do not, I shall send them off to Missroon on being in- formed of the fact by you. I wish it had been in your power to carry out the plan of landing at the Sand Box, up the Severn, and moving from Fort Monroe and about Newport News simultaneously. Will you not still have serious diffi- culty in your way in marching a force from Shipping Point to York- town? The moment you tell me of your intention not to carry out the Severn - movement I shall dispatch the three vessels now here for York River service to Missroon, but until I do hear from you on the subject I shall keep them on hand ready for a spring at a moments notice. Write me or telegraph as often as you can. I feel an intense interest in you and your operations. In great haste, yours, most truly and faithfully, L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH. [Inclosure No. 2.] WACHUSETT, April 5, 186211.45 a. m. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I received your note of 4th last evening, pro- posing to me to shell at long range to-day noon. I was prepared to do so with three gunboats to-day. At daylight this morning we had the first clear view, which disclosed vast additions to the fortifications Page 81 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 81 of which I had the plansso vast that these boats would be destroyed in twenty minutes. I have to-day discovered the position of the masked battery of four 10-inch guns, to which have been added extensive works, and some more guns have been reported. I am now trying to draw its fire by advancing and firing at long ranges; so far without effect. I have this moment received your note of yesterday of 11 p. m. It came too late for me to get to you to-day. I wish I could; but, my dear sir,Jam without officers. I have no~ one with whom I dare to leave this vessel. None have any experience whatever. I saw your troops advancing along Wormleys Creek toward the masked battery of four 10-inch guns. Until these are taken I cannot advance with this range. When these are taken they can be turned on the water battery which lies nearest to us, and which has lately been made more extensive also, as I see by the new earth. When you take the Wormlcys Creek we can have uninterrupted communication at any and all times. The view is good from where I am. Your signal officer did not come on board, and would be very serviceable if here. I am, with the commanders of the two vessels with me, anxious to assist you; but you see the cost of its attempt in the existing state of things. Depend on it, all the fortifications have been largely increased. Our want of officers is a hard trial, and my presence is a necessity to my vessel; yet if you still wish it at any time that I should join you I will do so. Your views in writing will be carried out faithfully, if possible, or by signal. If you want me to take the boats under fire say so, and it shall be done at once, iio matter at what cost. I am writing this on deck while firing. Yours, very truly, J. S. MISSROON. [Inclosure No. 3.] SUNDAY, April 6, 18624 p. m. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Mv DEAR GENERAL: I have received your favor of this date by Colonel Key and hasten to say that I have already written you via Shipping Point in reply, giving my reasons for not having joined you. The time you proposed to proceed with me had elapsed, and particularly the difficulties of my leaving my vessel, owing to the want of officers of experience to take care of her. I have explained in my note of to-day, and have repeated to Colonel Key, the greatly increased strength of the fortifications, as seen from this position. The forts at Gloucester are very formidable indeed, and the water batteries of Yorktown have evidently been increased in dimensions within a few days, as indicated by the new earth. As I pointed out to you in our interview, the works to be most appre- hended (though they all are too formidable for our vessels or three or foqr times their numbers and class) are the guns in mask, about one- fourth to one-half of a mile this side of Yorktown, which position I pointed out to Colonel Key. The enemy are still on Gloucester Point; how strong I cannot say. So long as he holds that formidable work (or indeed upper and lower work) we surely cannot command the York River. All the gunboats of the Navy would fail to take it, but would be destroyed in the attempt; 6 R RYOL XI, PT II Page 82 82 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. yet I will not hesitate to try the experiment, if required to do so, with the force, however inadequate. I have explained to Colonel Key that if you turn the masked works which I fired on to-day and receive its fire in return, the guns would command the next water battery, which is about the fifth of a mile from it, toward Yorktown, as it appears from this ship. With those two batteries carried, this force might approach near enough to shell Yorktown at long range, but nothing more. These vessels of this class are not~ calculated for closer or heavier work. As I could not go in time to reach you to-day, as requested, I sent, after dispatching my letter to you, the second in rank, Lieutenant-Com- manding Clitz, to confer with you, and now with Colonel Key I proceed to Wormleys Creek to meet you or General IEleintzelman. Very truly, yours, J. S. MISSIROOK, Commanding. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 8, 186210.30 p. m. (Received April 10, 18622 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Weather terrible. Raining heavily last twenty-eight hours. Roads and camps in awful condition. Very little firing to day. Reconnaissance being continued under disadvantageous circumstances. General Suni- ner has arrived. Most of Richardsons division at Ship Point. I can- not move it from there in present state of roads until I get more wagons. I need more force to make the attack on Gloucester. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 113. Camp near Yorktown, Va., April 8, 1862. The following instructions are published for the guidance of this army, and will be strictly observed and enforced: I. The order of march and the dispositions for the same will be com- municated at the proper time to the commanders immediatdy concerned, who will be held responsible for their prompt execution. II. While on the route, generals commanding divisions and brigades will be careful that the proper distances are observed throughout their respective columns, moving occasionally along the line or sending a staff officer to correct irregularities. Field officers of regiments will use the same means to preserve order in their commands. All unneces- sary discharge of fire-arms is strictly prohibited and will be severely punished. The muskets of the troops, excepting those composing the advance and rear guards and flankers, will not be capped, unless special orders be given. III. Halts, not exceeding ten minutes each, will be made every hour of the march and at midday, one from thirty minutes to an hour in length. The signal will be sounded from the head of the column and repeated down the whole line. Regiments will halt on the ground where they are when the signal sounds. When it is desired that the whole column shall close up regularly, the command will be given to the leading regiment and the word passed to the rear. During all halts the advance and rear guards, as well as the flankers, will remai Page 83 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 83 in their respective positions (General Orders, 69, Headquarters Army of the Potomac, February 25, 1862), and exercise the utmost vigilance to guard against surprise. IV. All commanding officers are held responsible that no straggling takes place in their respective commands. No one will be allowed to leave the ranks, except during a halt, unless in case of sickness. Should a soldier be taken sick, he will be sent to the rear in charge of a non- commissioned officer and reported to the medical officer with the am- bulance train, who will act as the case requires. V. The ambulance and baggage train of each brigade will ordinarily follow immediately in rear of its brigade, under the direction of the brigade quartermaster, assisted by the quartermasters of the respective regiments; all of whom will remain constantly with the trains and~ preserve the strictest order and discipline. Supply trains will, as a general rule, follow the baggage trains of the troops for whom the sup- plies are intended. Should a team be delayed by accident on the march, it will be drawn to one side of the road, while those in its rear will close up the interval. Whenever trains or any number of wagons halt from any cause, they will, as far as possible, be drawn to one side of the road, so as to admit of the free passage of troops, artillery, and other trains that may be ordered to the front. VI. The passage of the defiles or obstacles will be made in close order, the route step being resumed by each regiment after its last company has passed. Regin~ents in rear will close in mass on head of column while those in front are passing the defile or obstacle. VII. The pioneers of each brigade, with their tools and implements. will march in front of their respective brigades, under direction of an engineer officer. The roads will be repaired, and, whenever practica- ble, all obstacles to the easy passage of troops and trains will be re- moved. VIII. To the color, sounded on the march, will be the signal to prepare for action. At this call the trains will draw, as far as possible, to one side of the road and halt; the ambulances will be prepared for service; the men will close their ranks without further orders, and pre- serve perfect silence. IX. All commands and signals must be passed from front to rear of the column with the utmost promptness and celerity. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ORDERS, Camp near Yorktown, Va., April 8, 1862. The unsoldierlike practice, which for a few days past has prevailed in some of the regiments of this army, of firing away cartridges while npon the march and in camp, without any object save the wanton de- struction of Government property which has at great expense and care been furnished for the purpose of combating the enemies of our country, has been brought to the notice of the general commanding, who learns with deep regret that one or more soldiers have been killed and several wounded by this culpable violation of orders. The order is now reiterated that hereafter all commanders of army corps, divisions, brigades, regiments, and companies give their especial and unremitting attention to the immediate suppression of this practic Page 84 84 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAP. XX1II. in future, and they will be required to bring to a summary punishment every officer or soldier who violates this order. To avoid the accidental discharge of fire-arms caps will not be allowed upon the cones until they are required for immediate use against the enemy, and as soon as the occasion no longer exists they will be removed and placed in their cap boxes. Company inspections will be made every evening, when the arms and cartridge boxes of every man will be examined by the company com- manders, and if any caps are found upon the cones or if the proper number of cartridges are not in the boxes the delinquents will be placed in confinement and punished. All commanders are expected to enforce the requirements of this order, and they will be held responsible that its provisions are faith- fully complied with. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 9, 18629 p.m. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General: Weather still execrable; country covered with water; roads terrible. It is with the utmost difficulty that I can supply the troops. We are doing an imjuense deal of work on the roads. Cannot land siege train until the wind moderates. Beconnaissances being pushed and points of attack pretty well determined. Rebels have thrown 10 and 12 inch shells yesterday and to-day without effect. I have now placed all the troops in bivouac just out of shell range, holding all our advanced posi- tions with strong detachments well sheltered. I shall not lose an hour in placing our heavy guns in batteries, and will assault at the earliest practicable moment. The feeling of the troops is excellent. GEG. B. MOCLELLAK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 9, 1862. General E. D. KEYES, Gommanding Fourth Army (Jorps: GENERAL: In answer to your communication of yesterday I am di- rec1~ed to say that there was a slight misunderstanding regarding the disposition he desired to be made of your corps. He wished General Smiths division to be withdrawn somewhat to the rear and right, so as to occupy a position along in rear of the Yorktown and Warwick Court- House road, extending as far to the right as the Cross-Roads or Four Corners, and he desires General Davidsons brigade also .brought back upon the same line, leaving sufficient picket guards to watch the enemy closely and to protect the main body from a surprise. General Smith now occupies the Yorktown road beyond the Four Corners, but the general wishes him. to remain there nntil he can (probably to-morrow) send a brigade from Sedgwicks division to fill the gap Page 85 CHAr. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 85 He also wishes you to draw back your other divisions upon the same line, so as to connect with General Smiths left and Warwick Court- House, placing pickets upon the different small roads running toward our front and upon such other localities as you may think necessary for the security of your position; also watching closely the country be- low you to the mouth of Warwick River. The general believes that under existing circumstances this will be the best disposition of your corps, as it will enable you to observe the enemy and cover your masses. It will be necessary for you until further orders to supply your corps with forage and provisions from Ship Point with your own teams. Please have the roads put in as good condition as practicable. I would suggest that whenever it can be done without loss of time you direct your teams to remain overnight at Ship Point, giving them a good feed of hay and grain there. This will economize transporta- tion and will invigorate the anhuals for returning. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HDQRS. FOURTH CORPS, WARWICK COURT-HOUSE, April 9, 18623 p. in. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: SIR: I have this moment, on my return from a reconnaissance, re- ceived your dispatch of this morning. The line pointed out for Smiths division corresponds entirely with my views, and is nearly the same as that to which I supposed he would withdraw, under my order of 8 a. m. of the 7th instant, although I had not had time to examine my whole front. I will direct General Smith to look out for proper camps for his brigades, so as to move as soon as one of Sedgwicks brigades appears in his vicinity. Davidsons brigade was withdrawn a mile to the rear and considerably to the right after General McClellan was here. He can remain there until Smith establishes his other two brigades, and he will not probably find it necessary to move much to carry out your orders. In regard to Couchs division, it may be found necessary to draw back Grahams brigade to near the Court-House and to extend Briggs and Pecks brigades considerably more to the left and rear than they were when General McClellan reconnoitered the left. My reconnais- sance this morning took me back to more than half way to Youngs Mill, and I did not reach the mouth of Warwick River by more than a mile. I went quite down to the shore, and found a good hard land- ing and the remains of an old wharf. This morning a rebel gunboat came up into the mouth of Warwick River, fired a shell, and turned back. I directed my pickets to connect with those thrown out from Youngs Mill. They did so connect last night. I more apprehend a fight with the enemy on my left than at any other point, and must make my dis- positions accordingly. I have directed a reconnaissance of the road to Ship Point, and shall put on a working party as soon as the best route can be ascertained. Owing to assiduous friendly exertions of that most excellent officer Brigadier-General Mansfield, I have been able to procure forage an Page 86 86 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL provisions from Newport News when they could not be had from Ship Point, which prevented serious suffering among my men and the probable loss of many animals. I had before the receipt of your note directed that animals should be fed well at the depots. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, E. 1). KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps, Army Potomac. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 10, 1862. (Received 6 p. in.) Hon. E. [VI. STANTON, Secretary of War: The reconnaissance to-day proves that it is necessary to invest and attack Gloucester Point. Give me Franklin and McCalls divisions, under command of Franklin and I will at once undertake it. It cii cumstances of which [am not aware make it impossible for you to send me two divisions to carry out this final plan of campaign I will run the risk and hold myself responsible for the results if you will give me Franklins division. If you still confide in my judgment I entreat that you will grant this request. The fate of our cause depends npou it. Although willing under the pressure of necessity to carry this through with Franklin alone, I wish it to be distinctly un(Ierstood that I think two divisions necessary. Franklin and his division are indispensable to me. General Barnard concurs in this view. I have determined upon the point of attack, and am at this moment engaged in fixing the positions of the batteries. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Yorktown, April 10, 18629.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: GENERAL: It has not rained to-day since quite early in the morning, and is now clear. The grouud is already beginning to dry up, and we shall have better roads to-morrow. Additional and more suitable landing points have been found for supplies, siege material, & c.; some of them on much better roads than any we have heretofore used. I obtained to-day an excellent view of the water defenses of York- town and Gloucester; they are very strong. I saw a number of schooners; some landing men. Captain Missroon (commanding gun- boats) informs me that re-enforcements are constantly arriving in that manner. I have not yet heard the result of to-days reconnaissances on the left. I directed the enemys pickets near Lees Mill to be driven across the stream, to enable the engineers to make a close examination. I have telegraphed Flag-Officer Goldsborough, asking him to let me have the Naugatuck, in order that she may annoy the enemys wharves and prevent their disembarking troops by daylight. The enemy is strengthening himself and will evidently make a desperate resistance. Gloucester is strongly fortified on the land side. Assistant Secretary Fox has promised to let me have the Mystic. Page 87 CHAP. XXHI.I 87 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. propose to have her pass the batteries at night and destroy the enemys vessels and communication on the York River. Shecan probably take their water batteries in reverse and greatly facilitate our operations. The troops are in the best spirits; not much firing to-day. I would be glad to have prepared reserve supplies of shells, & c., for the 44-inch rifle guns, 8 and 10 inch mortars, and for some 13-inch mor- tars that Secretary Fox has been kind enough to loan me. I am, sir, very respectfully, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 10, 1862. (Received April 11, 1862.-5.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Nothing of interest to-day. Weather and roads a little better. Shall make good progress in landing heavy guns and supplies to-morrow. Hookers division commenced arriving. Examined water defenses. Enemy strengthening works and receiving re-enforcements. Glouces- ter well fortified on land side. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, ]Jlajor- General. CAMP NEAR YORKTOWN, April 10, 18628.10 p. m. Flag-Officer L. M. GOLDSBOROU~H, Commanding Squadron, Hampton Roads: I have had a good view to-day of the river defenses of Yorktown and Gloucester. If you can spare her please send the Naugatuck and any other small vessel, with an 80 or 100-pounder rifle. With such guns we can probably prevent their landing men and supplies from York River in daylight and can annoy them much at night. If the Mystic cau mn the batteries she can break up all their communication by York River and disturb them terribly, even if she cannot drive them out of the water batteries by a reverse fire. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Yorktown, April 10, 186210 p. m. Flag-Officer GOLDSBOROUGH, Hampton Roads: Franklins division is ordered to join me. It will be some three or four days. Weather good; roads improving. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PO~OMAC, Camp near Yorktown, April 10, 186210 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. B. FRANKLIN, Manassas or Alexandria: Bring with your division your wagons, ambulances, animals, tents Page 88 88 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. tools, & c. Push your division, and join me at once in my camp to arrange movements. I congratulate myself upon your new orders. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. FORT MONROE, April 11, 186211 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The Merrimac came out and planted herself between Newport News and Sewells Point, with the Yorktown and Jamestown and several gunboats and tugs. The tugs came down as far as Bates Dock, and carried off three small vessels, empty. Driving cattle across Hampton Bridge this morning it was broken down and I could not cross; other- wise I would have sent my artillery to protect them. Brigadier-General Caseys division was quite near, within a mile. I believe it is the intention to strengthen the rebels opposite the War- wick Court-House. Brigadier- General Keyes corps is opposite the rebels. I have telegraphed McClellan that the Yorktown and James- town were crowded with troops opposite to General Keyes. I have a battery at Newport News, but Brigadier-General Mansfield says for the want of horses it is of no use. Everything we had has been put in requisition to aid the Army of the Potomac; consequently we are somewhat in a crippled condition. The roads are almost impassable. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. FORT MONROE, VA., April 11, 18624 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The Merrimac, Jamestown, Yorktown, and several gunboats and tugs appeared between Newport News and Sewells Point. The only damage done us is the capture of three small vessels, one empty, one loaded with hay, and the other loaded, it is said, with coal. These vessels were captured opposite Brigadier-General Caseys division with small guns of 3-inch caliber, and some 200 feet from shore, and although the shore was lined by soldiers no effort was made to prevent the capture.* Why it was so is more than I can conjecture. The general belongs to the Army of the Potomac, and does not consider himself under my orders, although, since the capture of the vessels, he has offered his and the services of his division if I should need them. His division is detained for want of transportation. He proposes to march on Sunday or Monday to join the Army of the Potomac. We have a fine day, and probably will have a fine moonlight night, when it is conjectured by some that the Merrimac and her companions, the Jamestown and Yorktown, with their gunboats, may attempt to pass out of the Roads. I will detain the Baltimore boat until to- morrow. JOHN E. WOOL, Brigadier- General. * But see Casey to Wool and Wool to Casey, same date; and Casey to Stanton and Wool to Stanton, April 13, pp. 89, 95,96 Page 89 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 89 FORT MONROE, VA., April 11, 18625 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have not failed to keep you advised of what is passing in Hampton Roads. Among other conjectures it is thought the Merrimac intends to make her way to Yorktown to relieve the rebels of our gunboats, and to drive us from Ship Point, where he had his depot of supplies. I ~rilI keep you advised of all movements, if it is possible. The flag-officer has at last furnished us with a gunboat to keep the enemys boats from entering Hampton Creek. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. FORT MONROE, VA., April 11, 18625. p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Merrimac came down toward the Monitor and Stevens. The latter fired four or five rounds and the Merrimac one round, when she, with her consorts, returned to Craney Island. Thus ends the day. What the night may bring forth I am unable to say. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS CASEYS DIVISION, Near Newport News, Va., April 11, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL: GENERAL: I have just been shown a telegram which you sent to General Mansfield to-day with regard to the taking of some transports by the Jamestown. In it you have cast a reflection on me by saying the troops of General Casey were near and many of them on the beach opposite at the time they were captured. From the statement of [an] eye- witness of the capture I learn that the vessels captured were at least from 5 to 6 miles from my encamp- ment. It is to be regretted that you had not informed yourself of the true position of my troops before making any statement about them. The false idea which your telegram conveys I trust you will correct at once. The first intimation of the appearance of the Merrimac I re- ceived from yourself. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, Va., April 11, 1862. Brig. Gen. SILAS CASEY: GENERAL: I am very happy to be set right in relation to your com- mand. I presume the troops said to be on the beach at the time th Page 90 90 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. three vessels were captured must be sbme artillery and Ninth [N. V.] Cavalry. Twenty-nine of these were sent here as deserters and sent to Fort Wool. I know nothing of your position, except report from several officers that your division was near Bates Dock. It will alThrd me pleasure to correct any impression unfavorable to yourself. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Scott, April 11, 186211.20 p. m. Commander JOHN RODGERS, U. S. N., Washington, D. C.: Will you be kind enough to attend to the embarkation of General Franklins division, and arrange matters so that it can all move to. gether. After making arrangements for the movement I will be glad to see you here, and in time for you to join the division before it dis- embarks. I am particularly anxious that you should superintend the disembarkation. It will disembark on the Severn River. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Yorktown, April 11, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I reached these headquarters at 7 oclock this evening, having had an accident to the steamer on the way from Fort Monroe to Ship Point, and I was five hours on horseback. The roads being almost impass- able, and so entirely occupied with army, I frequently had to leave the road and take to the woods. The severe storm at Fort Monroe pre- vented transports from leaving for several days. The facilities for landing at Ship Point are very poor, and for several days it must have been next to impossible to move artillery over such roads. I learn that 12,000 men are engaged in repairing and building new roads. The difficulties of transportation have been so great that some of the cav- alry horses had to be sent back, to keep them from starving. I will report my observations of army movements to-morrow, but I see an earnest determination to lose no time in attacking the enemy combined. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 11, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters near Yorktown: Franklins division is marching to Alexandria to embark. McCalls will be sent if the safety of this city will permit. Inform me where you want Franklin to land. He will embark to-morrow and as quickly as possible. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 91 CHAP. XXIH.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 91 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., April 11, 18628.45 p. m. Lieutenant FERGUSON, Quartermaster, Alexandria: Lose no time in having transportation ready to take Franklins di- vision to Old Point. Direct the boats to be coaled to-night, if it has not already been done. Report to me immediately the names of the transports that are ready and how many men they can take. I am waiting your answer at the Department. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. ALEXANDRIA, April 11, 1862. (Received 9.15 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: There are but two transports here that can be used for troops, and they are both in perfect readiness; their names are the Constitution and Ocean Queen; they can carry 7,000 men. Other transports will proba- bly arrive to-morrow. C. B. FERGUSON, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Yorktown, April 11, 186210 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Weather good; work on roads progressing. Nothing is left undone to enable us to attack with least possible delay. Reconnaissances pushed boldly and satisfactorily to-day. Several skirmishes to-day, in which we have had a few woundednone killed. In every case drove back the enemy with considerable loss on his side. Our men show the utmost spirit in all these affairs, and have been uniformly successful. I am delighted with Franklins orders, and beg to thank you. I shall make the movement I have alluded to as soon as possible after he arrives. There shall not be a moments unnecessary delay in any of the opera- tions here. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 12, 186211.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Please have McCallum engage a first-rate wharf-builder to come down at once with pile-drivers and workmen and material. I will send details in a few hours. My idea is to have a superintendent, who shall have the general Control of the work, and that he should have several competent master-workmen under him. GEO. B. McCLELLAN Page 92 92 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Yorktown, April 12, 186212 in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your dispatch received. I thank you most sincerely for the re-en- forcements sent to me. Franklin will attack on the other side. The moment I hear from him I will state point of rendezvous. I am confi- dent as to results now. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. APRIL 12, 1862. Flag-Officer GOLDS~3OROUGH, Hampton Roads: I shall be able to make our second movement. Where shall Frank- lins vessels rendezvous ~ What of the Naugatuck; can I have her ~ We are pretty quiet here, but working hard. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WACHUSETT, April 12, 186211 a. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I am happy to learn of General Franklins destination for the point of such great importance. I communicated in reply a few minutes since that 17 feet would cross all the outside shoals and that 15 feet could be carried 2 miles up from the mouth of the Severn. No soundings are given but to just within its mouth, where are 3~ fathoms. All I say of depth within the mouth is derived from pilots, who agree as to the above statement. The Octorora (gunboat) was detailed for that service. I trust she may still be at Hampton Roads; she had a 9-inch shell gun, an 80- pounder rifle, and four 24-pounder howitzers. It is most important that Lieutenant Phelps, of the Corwin, should control that movement of ves- sels, as he is best informed, and whose first lieutenant has been in the river, landed there, and walked thence to the Point. I apprehend that the enemy have fortified that entrance very strongly. I would suggest that you telegraph to the flag-officer immediately, so as to secure the services of the Octorora, which draws but 6 feet watery and those of Lieutenant-Commander Phelps, of the Corwin; both im- portant to success. Very truly, J. S. MISSIROON, Commander. APRIL 12, 1862.i p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Mv DEAR GENERAL: I know of no place so good for assembling the division as just off Poquosin Flats, in from 4 to 6 fathoms water. From that l)Oint they would have to run about 15 miles, which the steamers would do in two hours, so as to reach the mouth of the Severn River by or before daylight. The assembling off that point would not indicate positively to th Page 93 Onir. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 93 enemy (off Poquosin, I mean) anything more than what they know now, viz, that we have made a depot there. I fear they have now fortified the mouth of the river, and have manned them, evening before last, with the troops that crossed over from Yorktown in ourview,as I cant see what they have done with them. Might not a landing be made at night on Gloucester on this side if your information gives assurance of strong works on the Severn ~ Please look at York River chart 3~ miles below Gloucester Point and 5 miles also. Yours, very truly, J. S. MISSROON, Commander. The point I would first indicate is plainly seen from our ship. Will you not come on board and see it ithe first sand beach just beyond the meadow-land. Gunboats could cover landing 600 to 800 yards off. No battery in view. A spot where oyster boats used to make landings. A feint might be made at the Severn to keep troops there if forti- fied or to land if not fortified. Signal for a boat to land at Shields house as the best point for em- barking. GENERAL ORDERS, ( IIDQRs. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 115. Camp Winfi Scott, near Yorktn, Va., Apt 12,1862. I. The present camp of these headquarters, and of all the troops in front of Yorktown, will be known as Camp Winfield Scott. II. Special instances of good conduct and gallantry on the part of officers or troops will be reported without delay, through the intermedi- ate commanders, to these headquarters. Orders of commendation are to be issued at these headquarters only. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, } IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, 6. Camp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn, Va., Apl 12, 1862. I. There will be established in the vicinity of General Headquarters a general depot for prisoners, under the charge of the provost-marshal- general and his staff officers. II. In each division th& re will be a sub-depot, under control of the division provost-marshal, whose guard will consist of one company of infantry and one company of cavalry. III. The provost-marshals of divisions are hereby directed to patrol from time to time during the day and the early part of the night the encampments of the division to which they belong, and will arrest and confine any soldiers found within these encampments belonging to other divisions unless they have the requisite passes from their division com- manders. Any soldiers thus found with passes after taps, except such as are specially authorized by their division commanderswhich an- thority will be written on the passwill be dealt with in like manner. They will also pay particular attention to those unauthorized person Page 94 94 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXII1. who may come within their lines for the sale of contraband goods; and if any such be found, will send them under charge of a guard to the l)rovost-marshal-generals office, with a written report of the circum- stances of the arrest and of the crime with which they are charged. IV. The provost-marshals of divisions will submit daily to the pro- vost-marshal-general, unless otherwise directed by him, consolidated. morning reports of the forces under their command, together with a list of prisoners, showing the offenses for which they were committed, the letter of the company, the number of the regiment, the number of the brigade, and the name of the division to which they belong. It will also show the date of confinement and by whom confined, the list of prisoners of war and state being kept separately from that of offenders belonging to the army. They will specify on the morning reports the number and strength of the l)atrols from time to time sent out. When the army is in position these reports will be sent in by 12 m but when on the march they will be sent in at the earliest practicable moment after arriving in camp. A guard, in charge of an officer, accompanying the morning report~ will be sent in to the headquarters of the provost-marshal-general, t& escort such prisoners as do not belong to the division and take back with it such prisoners as may belong to the division from which it came. V. The foregoing will apply to the division of reserve cavalry, the brigade of regular infantry, and the reserve artillery, with this excep- tion, that the commanders thereof will designate the strength of the force assigned to the provost-marshal from their own command. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, P. 0., April 13, 1862. Major-General BANKS: Deserters from Yorktown to Fort Monroe and contrabands that have come into ~ camp agree in the statement that the enemys force has left the iRappahannock for Yorktown. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, April 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters near Yorktou,n: General Franklin lias started for Fort Monroe, via Baltimore, this afternoon. Nothing new. Beauregard is reported to be dead, but this. comes from General Banks as a report, and is not relied on. EDWIN M. STANTON. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Hon. E. M. STANTON, April 13, 18629 a. m. Secretary of War: Dispatch received. Arrangement proposed for Franklin would assist me much. Our work progressing well. We shall soon be at them, an Page 95 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 95 I am sure of the result. They are working hard on the Gloucester side~ and the Navy cannot reach them. GEG. B. 1~1cCLELLAN, ]Ifajor- General. U. S. STEAMER WACUUSETT, York River, April 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Mv DEAR GENERAL: Your proposal to throw shells into the enemys works at Gloucester last night was about to be attempted at 11 p. in. (although I conld not believe that it would injure the works he has been erecting), when the movement of the vessels was immediately signaled by their pickets, and I was unwilling to carry three vessels of this light description under snch a destructive fire as the enemy was prepared to concentrate from fifty cannon upon them. The wind was directly upon their works, which would have driven the vessels upon Yorktown had any accident occurred to their machinery. The works of the enemy are entirely too formidable, both in structure and cannon, to warrant an attack by three such light vessels as these; and I should be very unwilling to attack them, unless it be to a limited extent simultaneously with your assault. The enemys pickets are stationed all along the whole extent of Gloucester and are sleepless. Yours, very respectfully, J. S. MISSI~O& N, Gornmander~ HEADQUARTERS CASEYS DIVISION, Near Newport News, April 13, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just seen in the Herald a telegraphic dispatch from General J. E. Wool to yourself, at the latter paragraph of which I was much surprised. It is this: Threevessels were captured opposite Brigadier-General Caseys division with small guns of 3-inch caliber and some 200 feet from shore. This is a false statement. My camp is between 5 and 6 miles from. the place of capture and about 2 miles from the beach. I never knew that the Merrimac was out until I was informed by General Wool by telegraph. From a telegraph which I received from General Wool, through General Mansfield, I was led to suppose that General Wool labored under a mistake with regard to the place of my encampment. I ad- dressed him the inclosed communication, marked A*, and received in reply, marked B ~. I have also inclosed a communication from Colonel Bailey, my chief of artillery, marked C. There may have been particular reasons for those whose business it was to act in not preventing the capture; but it is not surprising that those who were responsible should wish to shift npon the shoulders of others somewhat of the odium that attaches to it. I trust that justice will be done me in this matter, and that the truth. will have as wide a circulation as the falsehood. See p. 89 Page 96 96 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAiGN, VA. [OHAP. XXIII. This will be handed you by Dr. Warren, medical director of my divis- ion, who is fully informed of the particulars of the case, and who will communicate to you the facts. His statements you can rely on as cor- rect. I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Brigadier- General, Comdg. Third Division, Fourth Army Corps. [Inclosure C.] HDQRS. DivISION OF ARTILLERY (CASEYS DIVISION), Capt. HENRY W. SMITH, April 13, 1802. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Caseys Division: CAPTAIN: I have been requested by the general commanding the division to make a written statement of the facts concerning the capture of three schooners by the rebel steamer Jamestown on the 11th instant. I havethehonor, therefore, to submit thefollowingofficialreport: On the morning of the 11th instant I was attracted to the beach by the discharge of heavy guns. I found the rebel steamer Merrimac, ac- companied by six gunboats, near the opposite shore, between Sewells Point and the month of the Elizabeth River. They were then directly opposite the encampment of General Caseys division, and at least 3 miles from our own shore. Soon after I arrived the Jamestown steamed down rapidly, hugging their own shore for a considerable distance, and then bore di~ctly upon the three schooners, which were apparently anchored off Hampton. The course of the Jamestown was such as to increase her distance from General Caseys encampment. If there was any point between this and Fort Monroe where field guns could have been brought to bear upon her it must have been near and above the village of Hampton, where I understand there were two or more batteries of field artillery subject to the orders of General Wool. My opinion at the time was (and still is) that nothing but heavy guns could have reached her, even from the place just mentioned; and I am positive that no rebel gunboat came within 3 miles of the shore occupied by General Casey. The extreme range of 3-inch guns is 4,000 yards. I may mention that soon after the appearance of the rebel steamers the artillery of this division was placed in position and so kept through- out the day, from which it could be instantly deployed near the beach in case the enemy came within range. But of course no ammunition was thrown away upon an enemy at twice the effective range of our guns. I am, captain, respectfully, & c., G. D. BAILEY, Colonel and Chief of Division Artillery. FORT MONROE, VA., lion. E. M. STANTON, April 13, 18624 p. m. Secretary of War: By an explanation of Brigadier-General Casey it would appear that his division was not near the three vessels that were captured by th Page 97 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 97 Jamestown. The troops on the shore belonged to some other corps. The aide-de-camp says lie was 2 or 3 miles distant. All quiet, and weather fine. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. Statement 8howing number of men composing the Army of the Potomac after its disembarka- tion on the Peninsula, April 13, 1862. a a 8 ~ a4s~ 4 a0 ~ a. .~ an ~ .~a ~ -~ Sw :~ H a H~ b12---. ~ ~D ~ ~n -~ H Major-General McClellan, general staff, and unassigned troops . - 14, 333 567 2,511 17,411 5econd Corps (General Sumner) 18,778 919 2,251 21, 948 Third Corps (General Heintzelman) 34, 628 1,207 3,798 39, 633 Fourth Corps (General Keyes) 33,231 1,572 3, 926 38,729 Grand aggregate 100, 970 4,265 12,486 117, 72i ADJUTANT-GENERALS oFFICE, Washington, D. C., December 31, 1862. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately coin- piled from the morning report of the 13th day of April, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assistant adjutant-general, Seth Will- iams, and now on file in this office. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 117. Camp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn,Va., Apl 13, 1862. The following is to be read at the head of each company of this army: All persons whatsover, other than officers or parties on military duty and properly authorized, are prohibited passing to the front of this army beyond the line of main guards. Pickets and guards will arrest persons infringing upon this regulation and turn them over to the provost-marshal of division. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 14, 186211.30 a. in. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: We are getting up the heavy guns, mortars, and ammunition quite rapidly. The bridges and roads leading to proposed position of the 7 n RVOL xi, PT II Page 98 98 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIII trenches are being rapidly made. Our reconnaissances are now giving us the information we need. I cannot exaggerate the difficulties of re- connaissances here, but we are surmounting them. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 14, 1862. General J. W. RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: Twelve 10-inch mortars, eight 8-inch mortars, one 8-inch siege how- itzer, five 100-pounder and five 30-pounder Parrotts, and ten 4k-inch rifled guns of the siege train requested to be sent here have arrived, and we hear nothing of the remainder. I am directed to ask.that the other guns ordered may be pushed forward immediately, and that navy carriages may be procured, if possible, for the eight other 100-pounder Parrott guns on hand in New York and at Fort Monroe. I am also directed to ask that all the war rockets and tripods for firing the same at Washington Arsenal may be sent here; also the Union re;)eating guns and ammunition on hand; 500 carcasses each for 12 and 24 and 32 pounders, and for 8 and 10 inch calibers any incendiary shells that may be procured, and all the 4k-inch guns available. If any tables of fire have been prepared for these guns they ought also to be furnished, and I would again urge upon the Department the necessity of having an efficient officer to attend to the forwarding of stores after their arrival in this vicinity. It is probable that much property will be lost without such an officer, and at this time it may be i~ivaluable. C. P. KINGSBURY, Colonel and Chief of Ordnance. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, Year Yorktown, April 14 [1862]9 p. m. ABRAHAM LINCOLN: I have seen General Franklin, and beg to thank you for your kind- ness and consideration. I now understand the matter, which I did not before. Our field guns annoyed the enemy considerably to-day. Roads and bridges now progressing rapidly. Siege guns and ammunition coming up very satisfactorily. Shall have nearly all up to-morrow. The tranquillity of Yorktown is nearly at an end. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Commanding. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, Near Yorktown, April 14, 186210.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Weather continues favorable. Making good progress in repairing the roads to the depots as well as on the new roads and bridges lead- ing to the trenches. Busily making gabions and fascines and othe Page 99 CHAP. XXIII.] 99 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. siege material while getting up guns and making roads. Have actually at the artillery depot just in rear of my camp ten rifled 4~-iuch guns, ten 24-pounder siege guns, one 8-inch siege howitzer, nine 10-inch mor- tars, seven 8-inch mortars, one 8-inch howitzer, 105 barrels powder, 775 round shot and shell. The work of landing got on during the night~ Our field artillery and sharpshooters have done considerable firing to- day, annoying the enemy considerably. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General WACHUSETT, April 14, 1862~ Major-General MCCLELLAN: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I am very sorry you are obliged to defer your visit to-day, as we may soon have thick weather. The enemy are collecting about the picket station I designated yes terday as the one where notes were being taken. The troops are in the rear, out of range, and came down in squads of a dozen to look at the ships. They seem to anticipate us. From the ship to-day it would seem that the works being thrown up at Gloucesters upper works are to defend their rear, which has been neglected up to this time to a certain extent. Our movement on it should be hastened, to save our troops as much as possible. Last night a contraband came on board from Gloucester in a canoe, at which they fired. He is not intelligent; says there are only five companies of troops in Gloucester, and that they have many pickets out; on~ company of 15 or 20 men near the creek (Sarahs); that they expect the Merrimac here, Colonel or General Magruder having writ- ten for her to come up, which is promised him; that the battery at Gloucester Point is commanded by Jeff. Page, late of U. S. Navy, a good officer; Richard Page, also formerly of Navy, in command of one of the upper works at Gloucester; that they are very sanguine of sink- ing vessels, and have practiced their firing, which is very accurate; says Page (Jeff.) can kill a dog at a mile. He knows roads and creeks. I will send his p. m. If you want him, telegraph. Would it not be well to communicate with flag-officer Magruders expectation of Merrimac coming here I It can do no harm, and if she escape in the night we might be telegraphed the fact, as we must have. room to oppose her more than we have here. One-half hour on hoard this vessel is all that would be necessary to give you a clear idea from this stand-point. I much fear if we delay or are obliged to delay our landing the troops will find a battery in the rear of picket station to oppose them with telling effect. Yours, J. S. MISSROON~ CAMP WINFIELD SCOT1~, April 115, 1842.. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Nothing of interest during the night. Our working parties very strong to-day. Hope to make good progress in the roads and bridges leading to the position of our heavy batteries. We are doing all tha Page 100 100 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIJL men can do to expedite matters. Raining a little this morning; not enough to do any harm yet. I am on point of going on beard gunboats with Franklin to reconnoiter. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 15, 18626 p. rn. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have found what seems a good landing place for Franklin ,who has returned to superintend embarkation of his division. Naval rifled shells have annoyed enemy considerably to-day. All our work being rapidly pushed, but there is an immense deal to do. Saw no signs to-day of re-enforcements to the enemy. Weather good again. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. CX& EP NEAR YORKTOWN, April 15, 18626 p. m. General J. W. RIPLEY, Washington: Can you send us some more 100-pounder rifle and 44-inch guns? Need them much. Please do all possible to hurry forward all the train 30-pouQder Par- rotts, 8-inch siege howitzers, & c., that are still behiiid. I am anxious to open as soon as possible with overwhelming batteries. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. FORT MONROE, April 15, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I arrived this morning. Have been on board of the Monitor, and thence to the Minnesota, where I saw Commodore Gold sborongh, whose plan for receiving the Merrimac is as perfect as circumstances will ad- mit. He awaits an attack, and will not be drawn from his position into shallow water. Merrimac not seen to-day. Commodore Goldsborough has sent four gunboats to General McClellans assistance, and has three more in reserve to aid the landing in the Severn. The necessity of occupying Gloucester seems admitted on all hands. Gloucester once taken, Commodore Goldsborough will pass above Yorktown and shell the enemy in flank. This is nnderstood between the two coin manders. The enemy has seemi the necessity of defending Gloucester and is pre- paring for it. The country, made almost impassable by the late rains, ~will soon be in good condition for wagons, except through the known swamps. I hear much better accounts of the condition of the public property than was reported a few days ago on good authority. I am persuaded that the army is in good spirits, and is full of reliance on their commander, who is confident of success; but he needs heavy guns, which are but just now reaching him. I see no opening for any addi- tional order from the War Department. E. A. HITCHCOCK, Major- General Volunteers Page 101 CHAP. XXIII. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 101 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfleid Scott, April 16, 18621.30 a. in. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Second Cavalry Corps: General Smith has been directed to drive the enemy from the works they are erecting in the vicinity of the one-gun battery. Please direct General Gorman to watch carefully Smiths right flank, and to prevent the enemy from crossing the stream to attack him in flank. It may be well for Gorman to create a diversion by shelling the fort at Uni~n Mill, taking care that his artillery is well supported by infantry. General Smith will move early in the morning; consequently General Gorman should be informed of the movement as early as possible. By order of General McClellan: A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. BURNT CHIMNEYS, April 16, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Second Corps: General McClellan directs that you open fire witli as many guns as you can possibly bring to bear on the forts in front of Gormans, to create a diversion from this point. You will probably hear a heavy firing at this point, but keep up your fire at the point indicated as long as there is anything in sight and until further orders, whether anything is seen or not. A. V. COLBUIRN, Assistant Adjutant- General. BURNT CHIMNEYS, April 16, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Second Corps: General McClellan directs that you send the other two brigades of General Sedgwicks division to the position now occupied by General Gorman and hold them in readiness to support General Smith at this l)oint if he requires them. Richardsons division has been ordered up to your headquarters. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Burnt Chimneys, April 16, 1862. General GORMAT~, Commanding Brigade, Sedgwicks Division: Expend no more ammunition than is necessary to keep down the enemy~s fire and prevent their working. A few carefully directed shots from time to time will accomplish the result. Waste no ammunition. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 102 102 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. SMITHS DIVISION, April 116, 1862. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: General McClellan directs that you order General Casey to move at once to Warwick Court-House aiid there await further orders. Send to General Smith, at the Burnt Chimneys, 1,000 sand bags. Order the remainder of Sedgwicks division to the immediate vicinity of General Gormans, to encamp in a sheltered position. Order Richardson up to the position now occupied by Sedgwick. Direct Barnard to order an officer of engineers to Gormans brigade, to lay out two batteries of six guns each near the positions occupied by the guns that were firing this in orning. The object of these bat- teries is to keep down the fire of the enemys works and to prevent them from constructing new ones. They may be half-sunken batteries with rough embrasures, and should be far enough advanced to render their fire perfectly certain. Some protection should also be constructed for the guard of these batteries. Lieutenant Merrill is charged with the constructioii of a battery at this point. All the work should be so far finished as to afford cover to-morrow moriiing. Jnstruct Sumner to put a strong working party from Sedgwicks divis- ion on the road from Gormans position to the Methodist Churchthe road known as Sullys road. These orders should be given at once. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 16, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. D. KEYES, 61omrnanding Fourth Corps: General McClellan directs that you order Davidsons brigade up to Hancocks present position; Hancock to the Burnt Chimneys to sup- port Brooks; Grahams brigade to relieve Davidson, extending Couchs division to its right, watching the ground well from Widow Curtis to the left of your line. Push your pickets well out to the front and hold .~werything well in hand. Cause a strong working party from Couchs division to finish the road from the Four Corners to Warwick Court- Hon~e. Caseys division has been ordered by telegraph to move at once to Warwick Court-House, there to await your further orders. The orders for the movement must be given at once. Davidson and Hancock have been ordered at once. After an examination of the grounds I have determined to hold this position and build batteries to. night. Smith has gained a very important advantage to-day. You had better obstruct the roads and fell timbers within the lines just occupied by Smiths division. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 16, 186210 a. m. Lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General Smith has just handsomely silenced the fire of the so-called one-gun battery and forced the enemy to suspend work. Motts battery behaved splendidly. GEO. B. MCCLITh Page 103 CHAP. XXIII.] CORL~ESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 103 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TEE POTOMAC, April 16, 18621.30 p. m. (Received April 17, 11.50 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Smith has gained a very important position, which will, I hope, en- able us to control a passage of the Warwick. He completely silenced the fire of the enemys batteries. I am re-enforcing the position, and will to-night erect batteries that will give us full control. The gal- lantry and skill shown by General Smith to-day will, I hope, secure his immediate confirmation by the Senate as brigadier-general of vohrn- teers. Our loss is small, thanks to the arrangement of General Smith. We are making good progress to-day. Have silenced the fire of two of the enemys works at important points and obliged them to suspend work at these points. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, April 16, 18626.45 p. m. (Received April 17, 11.50 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have this moment returned from the new position of ~ division. The batteries near the Burnt Chimneys are completely silenced. They still have infantry in the works. Some skirmishers of Third Vermont crossed the stream, wading to their arm-pits. They allowed their ammu- nition to get wet, and finally fell back upon the approach of a large force of infantry. We now have complete control of the batteries in question and the hills. Dam epaulements will be erected adjacent and our posi- tion held. Gorman to-night also silenced five of enemys batteries, and our men have behaved splendidly. Our loss small, but our shells have inflicted great damage upon the enemy. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 16, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Good for the first lick! Hurrah for Smith and the one-gun battery! Let us have Yorktown with Magruder and his gang before the first of May and the job will be over. I have seen General Ripley about the shells. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. U. S. STEAMER WACHUSETT, York River, April 16, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Gommanding Army of Potomac, near Yorktown, Va.: Mv DEAR GENERAL: I sent the Anacostia last night to throw some shell into Gloucester at 11 and at 1 oclock. Her commander reports to Page 104 104 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL day that lie threw eleven into Gloucester and one into Yorktown, sev- eral of which were seen to explode. He says that when he commenced on Gloucester lights were visible where they were apparently at work, but were extinguished immediately. He also informed me that lie had no more explosive shells, and asked to return. As J had no instructions in his case, Ii left him to act on his own discretion, in view of the orders he received from Captain Wyman. He has left, and requested inc to forward inclosed letter to you. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. S. MISSlIGON, Commander. [Inclosure.] U. S. STEAMER ANACOSTIA, York River, April 16, 1862. SIR: I have expended all the explosive projectiles for the 50-pounder rifled guns, and as Captain Missroon will not giVe his consent for us to bring the 9-inch guns into action even at night, fearing that we may be crippled, and that in assisting us he may get some of his own ves- sels crippled, which he wishes to keep in good order for what he con- siders more important duties expected hereafter. I am therefore of but little use here at present, and shall return to-day to the Potomac, wheu I hope to exchange my 9-inch guns for a couple of 80-pounder rifled guns, and with them to return here soon. We have landed in the enemys works between 20 and 40 shells since we have been here. Very respectfully, yours, 0. C. BADGER, Lieutenant, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POrOiwAc, No. 118. fCarnjp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn, Va., Apl 16, 1862. 1. Brig. Gen. Stewart Van Vliet, chief quartermaster, will immedi- ately establish a temporary post-office in the vicinity of these head- quarters, under the charge of Capt. George B. Dandy, assistant quar- termaster. The mail for Fort Monroe and the North will close at 10 a. in., and the mail from Fort Monroe will be ready for delivery at about 5 p. in., daily. Mail matter may be sent to and received from the post-office at these headquarters by messengers from the headquarters of army corps, di- visions, and independent commands. All letters for the mail mast be prepaid, or (if soldiers letters) cer- tified, as required by law. II. The following notice from the Post-Office Department is published for the information of the Army of the Potomac: POST-OFFICE DEPARTMENT, April 3, 1862. The Post-Office Department deems it advisable that all letters addresed to officers and soldiers of the Army of the Potomac, whether near Washington or moving South, should be mailed to Washington City. From that office they will be properly fer- warded in separate packages to the respective corps and divisions, and their delL-- cry facilitated. Commanders of divisions are requested, as movements occur, to caus Page 105 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 1o& notice to be given to the postmaster of Washington to what convenient point such packages, destined to regiments under their command should be sent. JOHN A. KASSO~, First Assistant Postmaster-Gerwral. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 17, 1862. (Received April 17, 6.12 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Telegrams from General Wool referring to an order from the War Department to muster out the ~inth New York Cavalry. The order has never been received at these headquarters, although the regiment forms part of the Army of the Potomac. The regiment is serviug with the reserve artillery, and from all that 1 can learn the officers and men here present would consider it a disgrace to be sent to the rear and mus- tered out now that they are under fire of the enemy. I would respectfully suggest the suspension of the order until the present operations are over; at all events in the case of this regiment, who do not desire tc~ leave the field of battle. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, ]iliajor- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington Gity, D. 0., April 17, 1862. Major.General MCCLELLAN: The order in respect to disbanding the Ninth New York Cavalry was given on the representation that the men had been fraudulently im- posed on by their officers to enlist. They were not known to be in actual service. You will, of course, use your discretion and retain or discharge them, as you please. The order to disband those under your command is suspended. EDWIN M. STANTON. NEAR YORKTOWN, April 17, 18627.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The position occupied yesterday by Smith was intrenched last night~ so that we have been able to prevent enemy from working to-day and kept his guns silent. Same result at batteries at Wynns Mill. York- town shelled gunboats and some of our barges to-day without effect. Good deal of firing from Yorktown land batteries; little or no damage. Lieutenant Merrill, U. S. Engineers, severely wounded yesterday even- ing in the shoulder by fragment of shell; bone not injured; wound not dangerous. Lieutenant Wagner, of Topographical Engineers, lost his~ left arm this afternoon by fragment; amputation performed and the lieutenant doing well. I respectfully recommend that these excellen Page 106 106 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. ~officers be brevetted for their services, untiring energy, and courage. Their devotion deserves reward from the country. I can ill spare them flow. I have not received the name of any other officer wounded late yes- terday after I left the ground. Two of Smiths regiments suffered se- verely from musket fire. I have not the details yet. Our work pro. gresses, with weather excellent and everything encouraging. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. U. S. STEAMER WACHU5ETT, York Riier, April 17, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Va.: Mv DEAR GENERAIJ: Thanks for your letter of yesterday. Am ~glad of the effect of your fire. I shall hereafter send some rifle shell at night into Yorktown and some 11-inch shell into Gloucester to prevent work at night. During the day rifle shell shall be thrown into Gloucester, and when working parties are observed at any time. I am, very truly, yours, J. S. MISSROOI~, Commander. 12.30.The rifle gun now being fired from water battery has range to Wormleys Creek. I suggested this morning the dismounting the two rifles of the enemy. If you commence too far off they may see the object and remove them out of range. J. S. MISSROON. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, April 17, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, A rmy of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Va.: Your communication to the Secretary of War regarding the failure of the 3-inch percussion shells has been referred to this department. The fuses used are Schenkl~s, the best of their kind. It is suggested that the failures may arise from an omission to reverse the screw cap, the operation of which General Barry or Major Webb understands. Mr. Schenkl, the inventor, will leave to-night for Yorktown to inves- tigate the matter. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier~ General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 17, 1862. General J. W. RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: Telegram received. Much obliged for your promptness. We shall Tequire a good deal of ammunition, and probably as many heavy gun Page 107 CHAP. XXIII.] 107 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. as you can let us have. Mortars will be very useful. I think the 4~- inch gun will be admissible, and am only sorry we have not more of them. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major-GeneraL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 18, 18622.30 a. m. (Received 8.20 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: At about one-half hour after midnight the enemy attacked Smiths division and attempted to carry his guns. Smith repulsed them hand- somely and took some prisoners. I have no details yet; will forward as soon as my aides return. The firing was very heavy. All is now quiet. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Gommanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. (I., April 18, 18624.32 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Near Yorktown: Your dispatches of this morning received and communicated to the President. He directed me to ask you whether the indications do not show that the enemy are inclined to take the offensive. Banks has moved on to Mount Jackson yesterday and to New Market to-day; has taken some locomotives and prisoners. EDWIN M. STANTON. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, April 18, 18628 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Nothing of interest to-day.. The enemy made a second attempt on Smiths position at 4 a. in., not in much force; was at once repulsed. Things pretty quiet to-day. We commenced to-day and this evening the construction of six batteries, besides the task of converting a tem- porary shelter into a permanent battery. Most of these are concealed from view, and I hope to complete them before the enemy finds us out. We have now five plates completed across Wormley~s Creek, and hope to finish the others to-morrow. The main artillery road to the trenches will be essentially finished to-morrow evening. I hope to have twelve heavy guns in battery by daybreak, five more to-morrow night, twenty- one more next night. I)uring the last-mentioned night we will com- mence the first parallel and the heavy batteries that will be in exposed positions, and by means of the batteries I have mentioned we will be able to cover completely the work in the exposed trenches, and am anxious that heavy guns and ammunition should be hurried forward as rapidly as possible. I am now in condition to push forward the works rapidly. We hav Page 108 108 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. done an immense amount of work, and its effects will soon be apparent. Everything goes well. It is important that this information should not leak out. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF ~2IIE POTOMAC, April 18, 186210 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: Dispatch received. I cannot hope such good fortune as that the enemy will take the offensive. I am perfectly prepared for any attack the enemy may make. He will do nothing more than sorties. I beg that the President will be satisfied that the enemy cannot gain any- thing by attacking me. The more he does attack the better I shall be contented. All going well. I am glad to hear of General Banks good fortune. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, April 18, 186211.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: Please direct General C. Grover to report to me for orders. We need many more officers of engineers and topographical engineers. All that can be spared for service during this siege ought to be ordered here on temporary duty. Cannot the work at Fort Monroe be temporarily committed to a foreman, so as to permit Captain Stewart and Lieuten- ant Farquhar to serve here for a few days l I feel the absolute neces- sity of the services of as many officers of engineers and topographical en- gineers as can be collected during the operations in front of Yorktown. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brig. Gen. J. W. RIPLEY, April 18, 1862. Chief of Ordnance: The supply of field ammunition, battery and reserve, is becoming rapidly exhausted, and the consumption of that for small-arms is very great. I have to request that 200 rounds per gun of the former and 200 pounds per man of the latter may be added to my former requisi- tion and sent forward with rapidity. Requisitions are coming, too, for all sorts of battery stores, which cannot be filled. The forges for the siege train have not yet arrived, and cannot be heard from. C. P. KINGSBURY Page 109 CHAP. XXilI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 109 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 18, 1862. (Received April 19, 1862, 9.40 a in.) General RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: Will be glad to have another 200-pouiider Parrott. Can provide for more if you have them. Will also be glad to have more 10-inch sea- coast mortars. Send the additional 13-inch mortars. Can use them well. Please hurry up animunition. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, April 18, 186212.35 P. 1~~. )Jaj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Va.: Telegram received. The first 200-pounder and carriage were shipped from Cold Spring on the 8th instant to Fort Monroe. Lieutenant Bay- lor has been instructed t6 hold it subject to your order. The second one is finished, and will be sent to Fort Monroe at once; it will be placed at your disposal if you desire it. Have no more siege mortars finished. Have ordered Colonel Ramsay to send you ten 10-inch sea- coast mortars. Can let you have ten more 13-inch sea-coast mortars if you want them. A large supply of 3-inch ammunition will be sent down to the arsenal at Fort Monroe at once. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General. UNITED STATES FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Hampton Roads, April 18, 1862. Capt. A. A. HARWOOD, Chief of Ordnance: The 100-pounder Parrott is at present the only gun that can avail us any thing at Yorktown. They are of immense service. The carriage of the Sebagos lOOpounder has already given out in firing upon that place. Send us another one to replace it in the earliest possible way. Send us, too, four more 100-pounder Parrotts, with carriages for ship- board and fitments complete. Send us also a full supply of projectiles for 100-pounder Parrotts. We shall have to use a great many of them, and there are none on hand in charge of our ordnance officer at Fort Monroe. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag- Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 18, 1862. Cmeral M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: General Van Yliet has applied to you to have some officers of his de- partment ordered here. Their services are very much needed, and they should be ordered here immediately. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Page 110 110 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRs. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 114. Camp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn, Th., Apl 18,1862. * * * * * * * 9th. During the progress of the present operations in front of York- town the Second and Fourth Army Corps, constituting the left of the line of this army, will be under the command of Brig. Gen. E. V. Sumner, through whom orders from these headquarters will be trans~ mitted. The Second Army Corps will still remain under the immediate com- mand of General Sumner. Reports from the commander of the Fourth Army Corps requiring immediate action will be transmitted direct to these headquarters and copies furnished to General Sumner. In all other cases reports will be sent through the headquarters of General Sumner. Special instructions will from time to time be given for General Sumners guidance. * * * * .* * * 13th. All the engineer troops, tools, and materials will be under the direct control of the senior engineer of this army, Brig. Gen. J. G. Barnard, who will receive his instructions direct from these head- quarters, and through whom all orders affecting the engineer depart- ment will be communicated. All requisitions for engineer officers, troops, or material will be made direct to the senior engineer, and not through any other staff department. An officer will be assigned to duty with the senior engineer as his assistant, who will act as adjutant of the engineers. All details of engineer officers or engineer troops for duty in the trenches will be made daily by the senior engineer. 14th. The general engineer depot will be placed under the direction of Brig. Gen. D. P. Woodbury, who will detail from his command a competent officer, with the necessary assistants, to take charge of it. By command of Major-General McClellan: Assistant Adjutant-General. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, April 19, 18629 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Everything unusually quiet to-day. Enemy makes little reply to our fire. Our work progressing quite well. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, April 19, 18629.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I recovered to-day the bodies of our men killed on the lOth29 in number. The enemy have 4 wounded in their hands, whom I will en Page 111 CUAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 111 deavor to recover to-morrow by offering 4 well men in exchange. The officer bearing the flag acknowledged a severe loss on their part, and spoke in high terms of the conduct of our men. It has been raining: this evening, bat lias now ceased. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, ]Jfajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Yorktown, April 19, 1862. General J. W. RIPLEY: Please send, in addition to previous requisition, 100 rounds for all th& siege and field guns of this army. We shall need them to destroy th& enemys parapet. He is playing the game of concealing his guns when under fire, and we must use our shelts as mines, and the parapet fuses- should be arranged accordingly. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., April 19, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: The Secretary will endeavor to have nominations for bri~ gade quartermasters now before the Senate confirmed, and as officers. can be reached your requisitions for quartermasters will be supplied. In the mean time you should detail such lieutenants as your chief quartermaster or brigade commanders select for temporary duty as act- ing assistant quartermasters. I have none available whom I have not already ordered to duty. Captain Myers, for whom General Van Yliet as]. s, is chief quarter- master of General McDowells corps darm~5e. Colonel Ingalls, his former chief quartermaster, is with you. This left Mc Dowells corps without any quartermaster of experience. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, April 19, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, Yorktown: GENERAL: I have telegraphed to you in relation to quartermasters. I wish I could supply General Van Vliets requisition for quartermas- ters of experience, but the few such are either out of my command (being attached to armies in the field, and subject, therefore, like those with you, to the orders of their immediate commanding officers, or em- ployed in those positions and duties in which experience is indispensa- ble to the equipment, support, and supply of the army in the field) or are on parole, or physically unable to take the field. I have endeavored to procure for you the authority which I think important to the good of the service, to confer acting appointments a Page 112 112 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXIII. captains and assistant quartermasters or brigade quartermasters upon officers now in your army, with the understanding and promise that they would be recommended to the Senate by the PresIdent on your recommendation. Deserving men, who as lieutenants in the volnuteer service have developed qualities and gained experience fitting them for the responsible duties of brigade quartermasters, could thus be ap- pointed. Snch an arrangement would give the commanders of the army in the field the power to select from among the many good men who must be in an army the best, and to re~vard the deserving. It would be a powerful aid to him in exciting emulation, and would give to the Quartermasters Department men of value and ability. If the Secretary and President would Promise to nominate to the Senate the men thus selected and recommended by the commanding generals there could be no doubt of their confirmation. But I have not yet succeeded in this attempt. The pressure from members of the two Houses of Congress in favor of their respective constituents is very difficult, I suppose, to resist; and though I hope in time to get some such rule made absolute, I have not succeeded in the first attempt. See my dispatch of to-day. I am, general, very truly and respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. U. S. STEAMER WACHUSETT, York River, Virginia, April 19, 1862. General MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Mv DEAR GENERAL: I write to say that we have again got our 100- ponuder rifle monnted, with its carriage sufficiently strengthened to endure service, with ordinary care. Last night we threw several 11-inch shell into Yorktown and Glou- cester all which were heard to explode after they reached their des- tination. I am glad to learn that General Franklin, with part of his troops, have arrived. My plans for co-operation are ready for approval or amen(l- ment by him. I hope you have not met losses dnring the last three days. Very respectfully, yours, J. S. MISSIROON, Commandmng. I shall throw some shell to-night unless desired not to do so by you. You have been, as well as the enemy, silent to-day. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, April 19, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Va.: Telegram received. Have ordered ten 10-inch, and ten 13-inch sea- coast mortars to be sent to you at once. Regret that the projectiles sent with the 4A-inch siege guns do not work well. Have directe Page 113 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 113 Hotchkiss to send you 10,000 of liis with the utmost dispatch as fast as made. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier-General. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, April 19, 1862. Col. C. P. KINGSBURY, Chief of Ordnance, Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, 17a.: Telegrams received. The gins and sling-carts have been ordered t~ be sent to you from Washington. Twenty spare 6-pounder carriages. and fonr 12-pounder heavy have been ordered to Fort Monroe. The reserve 3-inch ammunition will leave the Washington Arsenal to-day.. The sixty-seven hundred rounds for the field batteries are being pre- pared. The additional 200 rounds per man will be sent forward as soon as transportation can be L)rovided. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier-General. SPECIAL ORDERS WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE No. 86. Washington, April 19, 1862. 1. Brig. Gens. C. Grover and F. E. Patterson, U. S. Volunteers, are assigned to duty with the Army of the Potomac, and will repair to Camp Winfield Scott and rcport to Major-General McClellan. * * * * * * d * By order of the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. LEFT WING ARMY OF POTOMAC, No. 13. f Camp Winfield Scott, April 19, 1862. In compliance with orders from Headquarters Army of the Potomac,. dated Camp Winfield Scott, April 18, 1862, the undersigned hereby as- sumes command of the left wing of that army, consisting of the Seceni and Fourth Corps dArm~e. All concerned will govern themselves ac- cordingly. E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TILE POTOMAC, April 20, 1862il p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Nothing new of interest to-day. Work on oar batteries rapidly pro- gressing. Some thirteen 13-inch mortars have reached Cheesemans Creek. Enemy very silent to-day. GEG. B. MCCLELLANq Major- General. 8 IL ILVOL XI, PT II Page 114 [CHAP. XXIII. 114 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., Arrit 20, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown: Telegram received. Do I understand that you would like 100 rounds for each field and siege piece prepared with percnssion fuses? I have so ordered them. Seventy-six thousand rounds of additional field am- munition were ordered to be prepared for you yesterday. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General. NEAR YORKTQWN, April 20, 1862Midnight. General J. W. RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: - Please send me all the 20-pounder Parrotts you can as soon as pos- sible, and let me know how many you send and when I can look for tl~em. I am short of siege guns. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfleld Scott, April 20, 1862. Brig. Gen. LoRENzo THOMAS, Adjutant- General, U. S. Army: GENERAL: I inclose herewith a letter to General Burnside, which will explain itself. I think there should be no delay in sending him the cavalry and artillery asked for. I would beg to suggest the propriety, if possible, of recruiting for Burusides regiments, as the most effective manner of bringing up his force. Recruits scattered among his veteran regiments will be much more effective than the same number of men formed into new regiments. Our works are progressing well to- day. Very little firing. General Holmes, of the rebel army, was ordered to North Carolina in command one week after the fall of New Berne. General E. K. Smith went to East Tennessee about five weeks ago. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.) IIEADQUATERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Yorktown, Va., April 20, 1862. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Department of North Carolina: GENERAL: I have information, which I regard as entirely reliable, that on the 25th of March a movement of troops commenced from Rich- mond for North Carolina to operate against your command. These regi- ments came from Fredericksburg and Gordonsville, having formed part of the Army of Manassas. They were: Fourth, Tenth, and Fourteenth Page 115 CHAP. xxiii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115 Alabama regiments; two Virginia regiments; two North Carolina regi- ments; Sixth and Sixteenth Mississippi; Eighth Georgia; two other Georgia regiments; one or two Louisiana regiments; Thomas Artil- lery (four batteries); Ransoms regiment of North Carolina Cavalry; the heavy guns formerly at Leesburg, said to be from twenty to twenty- five in number and generally large rifled guns. I think the num- ber and caliber of these guns exaggerated; there are probably ten to twelve. The total being thirteen or fourteen regiments of infantry, one regiment of cavalry, and four light batteries. The railways in the South are represented to be in a miserable con- dition, both as regards track and rolling stock, so the progress of these troops was probably slow. It is represented that the energetic steps taken by the rebel Government in reference to the conscription have filled their regiments. I learn to-day that General R. E. Lee commands in front of me, hav- ing Johnstoii under him, Lee being now Commander-in-Chief of the rebels, and that their force in and around Yorktown numbers more thau 80,000 men. I would recommend to you to make no offensive movement beyond New Berne until you have reduced Fort Macon; also to be well on the alert against an attempt to turn your left flank. I hope the Department may be able to let you have some of the heavy guns used in the siege of Fort Pulaski. Very truly, yours, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 20, 1862. Hon. G. V. Fox, A8sistant Secretary qf the Navy: How soon can I count on the Galena with certainty? I am fast reaching a point where the success of my operations must to a certaiu extent depend upon the fact of her co-operation or the reverse. She will be of very great assistance to me, and if she can do what we were talking of will shorten my work here very much. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. [APRIL 20, 1862.] Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: M~ DEAR GENERAL: The 100-pounder gun-carriage was sent to Clieesemans Creek last evening. The carriage of the Sebagos gun gave way again yesterday and is not now in good condition, but it shall be used to-day. I have notice fiom the flag-officer that gun-carriage ma- kers are on their way from Washington for this place. It is important to us both to have them for repairing carriages. Also that he had asked for two frigates, with heavy Parrott cannon, to be sent here, but I fear they fill come too late. I think it important that the negro Free Aleck, at Cheeseman Page 116 116 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, YA. [CHAP. XXIII. Creek, be arrested as soon as possible as to Yorktown at night. lie is said to take information I have received your letter of 19th, aTl(l am astonished to find the number and weight of cannon you will have in position to-morrow, bat fear the rain will prevent much work. I think we have gained over the Indian, and think his information may be relied upon, as he knows the consequences of deceiving us and is anxious to remain with us. The thick weather made it impossible to get vessels into a position last night for throwing shell without getting aground in this narrow channel and at same time unable to see where to throw shells, but they shall act on every possible occasion hereafter. Yours, very traly, J. S. MISSROON. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfield Scott, April 20, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General, U. S. Army: GRNERAL: I have nothing of especial interest to report. The rain is again upon us and will interfere more or less with our work, but the results cannot be so serious as they were when we first took up our po- sitions. Battery No. 1 would have been armed last night with five 100-pounder Parrotts but for the rain. As it is one is mounted, the l)latforms laid, and the carriage in l)OsitiOn. We hope to finish it to- night. The construction of ~o. 2 has been delayed somewhat by the necessity of extreme caution in regard to furnishing, when it will no doubt be ready for its fifteen guns to-night. No. 3 will be ready for its armameut of six guns by daybreak to- morrow. No. 4 will be ready for its ten 13-inch mortars before they meet us. No. 5 will be ready for its five guns tomorrow. There is more delay than I like in the arrival of heavy guns and am- inanition. I have, however, sent to have a thorough examination made of all the vessels near here and Fort Monroe, in hope~ of finding some of our missing guns and ammunition. There was more or less mus- ketry firing last night; nothing important or serious. Some quite heavy musketry an hour ago on our left. I have not yet learned the cause, but as everything is now quiet I presume it amounted to very little. I inclose copies of communications between the rebel general near the Burnt Chimneys and General Smith. The enemy does not appear to have learned much by the correspondence as to the name of the commanding general opposite. As I telegraphed last night, the colonel who brought the flag acknowl- edged to a very severe loss on their part; said that our men acted - most gallantly, and that they (the rebels) could not show their heads without being picked off. I observe that the Norfolk Day Book, as usual, magnifies the affair into an assault. I do not know what desig- nation they will give to the real attack when it does occur. It is still raining, but our work is progressing. Very little artillery firing to-day thus far. Very respectfully. your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 117 CHAP. XXfliL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 117 [Inclosures.] SATURDAY, April 19, 186210 a. m. COMMANDING OFFICER OF BRIGADE OF FEDERAL TROOPS IN FRONT: SIR: I send a flag of truce by Col. William N. Levy to state to yoq that many of your dead are lying unburied in front of our works, and to propose a cessation of hostilities for two hours for the purpose of their interment by us. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P~UL J. SEMMES, Brigadier-General. SATURDAY, April 19, 18622.30 p. m. GENERAL COMMANDING FORCES OPPOSITE: I would d~sire that the bodies of our men on your side of the river be delivered to us at the middle of the dam; if this is impracticable, in the middle of the stream. By command of general commanding forces opposite: L. I). II. CIJ7RIRJE. APRIL 19, 18624 p. m. COMMANDING OFFICER OF BRIGADE OF FEDERAL TROOPS IN FRONT: SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your answer to my note of this date, and to state that your proposition to receive- the bodies at the middle of the (laIn is accepted, and that hostilities will be suspended for two hours from re~eipt of this note. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, PAUL J. SEMMES, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, April 21, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your dispatch of the 19th was received that day. Fredericksburg is evacuated and the bridges destroyed by the enemy, and a small part of McDowells command occupies this side of the Rappahannock, oppo- site the town. He purposes moving his whole force to that point. A. LINCOLN. I HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Warwick Court-House, Va., April 21, 1862. Maj. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Brigadier- General Sumners Stafr~: SIR: In reply to your telegram, just received, asking to know the best ground on which to concentrate my corps, I respectfully request that I may be allowed to defer my final reply until Brigadier-General Sumner and Major-General McClellan shall have examine(l the minutes of information derived from three coutrabands who camne~ over from the enemy this morning. Their reports correspond so nearly with so many rumors, reports, and appearances which had before come to m Page 118 118 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAf. Xxiii knowledge, that I am unable, without knowing the general plan of operations, to suggest a concentration of my corps. Independently of the general plan of operations, I would recommend a concentration of one division in rear and to the left of my headquarters, and two divis- ions on the front, now guarded by Brigadier-General Couch; in which case I could effect nothing without a larger supply of heavy artillery. If it be true that the enemy have successive lines of defense, begin- ning with a wet ditch or stream which cannot be filled up, I am unable, ~until I shall have found a weaker point than I have yet discovered, to recommend anything which supposes an assault in front. If Mulberry Island has been evacu~te~, as the negroes say (and other appearances indicate that the force there has been recently reduced), we can press sharply upon the enemy from Smiths position, and with some heavy artillery we can threaten and perhaps force a passage on the left while the battering at Yorktown is in progress, and at the same time safely leave my corps without material change in its present position. I make these suggestions for the sole reason that my want of accu- rate knowledge of the general plan of operations renders it necessary that I should return a qualified answer to your telegram. The three contrabands and the minutes of their examination will be sent over with this letter. I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier-General, Commanding Fourth Corp8. (Indorsement.] APRIL 22, 1862. General MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have sent two engineer officers to make a careful exam- ination to-day of the left of our line and I will report this evening. Respectfully, E. V. SUMNER Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRs. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 119. 5 Camp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn, Va., Apl 21, 1802. * * * * * * * Ill. The following will be substituted for paragraph 2, Special Or- ders, No. 118, April 20, 1862: The plan of a battery and its location having been determined, the general commanding will designate the division of the army which is to perform the labor of its construction. The general of the trenches will be responsible that the labor is dili- gently and industriously rendered and that the plans and instructions of the engineer or officer in charge are rigidly adhered to. The chief engineer will indicate the officer of engineers or artillery charged with the professional responsibiJity of the construction, giving his name to these headquarters and the general of the trenches. At each head- quarters of division an officer will be designated during the siege who will be charged with the special duty of regulating the details of work- ing parties. He will consult daily with the engineer or artillery officer in charge A~ a construction, and upon his requisition for the detail of laborers will, under the orders of the division commander, furnish the detail. He will be responsible for the intrenching tools of the division Page 119 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 119 which he will distribute to the detail going out to work in the propor- tion fixed by the engineer officer, taking the receipt of the command- ing officer of the detail therefor, and upon the return of the party will receive the tools again. He will see that the working parties are prop- erly constituted and leave the division at the hour fixed, in order to arrive in time at the place of labor. He will visit the battery at least twice in twenty-four hours, and will report to the division commander tbe result of his observation during the visit. The commanding 6fficer of the working party will, on his arriving at the battery or trench, report to the officer in charge of the work. He will be directly responsible for the constancy and industry of the labor performed and the strictness of adherence to the plans and instructions of the engineer or constructing officer. When a work shall be finished the engineer will make a written report of the fact to these headquar- ters, the chief engineer, and to the general of the trenches. When there are not tools enough at the headquarters of a division to meet the requirements of a working party the officer charged with regulating the details will at once make a requisition for them on Gen- eral D. P. Woodbury, in charge of the engineer depot. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT, April 22, 1862. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, U. AS~. Army, Jlidqrs. Army of the Potomac: The Galena sailed this forenoon for Hampton Roads direct. G. V. FOX, Assistant & cretary. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, April 22, 18625 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Tfa.: Your telegram is just received. Four 20-pounders have been ordered to be sent to Ship Point from Washington, five from New York, and all that there are finished at the West Point Foundery. Twenty car- riages for these guns will be sent from Washington. About 1,000 pro- jectiles will be sent from New York, and a large supply from West Point. The Quartermaster-General will be notified that these stores are urgently needed. All of these guns will reach you as soon as the Quartermasters De- partment can transport them to you. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 22, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The enemy have fired a good deal to-day, but have done no harm as far as I have heard. A sharp skirmish with Smiths pickets to-day; en Page 120 1120 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. emy repulsed with loss. Recent rains have injured the roads us, but we are making progress all the time. , delayed GEO. B. MCCLELLAN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 23, 1862. Brigadier-General THOMAS: Cases have occurred of the entire destitution of Union familiesa con- dition arising from the inevitable ravages of war. This it will be mi- possible to prevent. In such cases it is %ut just, when this class of persons have suffered as well from our own troops as from the enemy, that they should at least be preserved from starvation. I desire to be instructed if an issue of rations can be made under such circumstajices to destitute Union families. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS CAMP SCOTT, Hon. E. M. STANToN, April 23, 186210.40 a. m. & cretary of War: Night passed off quietly. Batteries Nos. 1, 6, 7. and 8 are complete. No. 2 will be ready complete to-morrow at daylight, if the guns in- tended for it can be landed in time. They were del yed at Old Point by rough weather. Nos. 3 and 5 should be ready by daylight. Well con)J)lete communication to these batteries and the left half of first parallel to-night, I hope. Very little firing to-day. Our men hard at work. Weather again good. Roads should be good by to-morrow. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN. ]Jfajor- General. FORT MONROE VA Hon. E. M. STANTON: , ., April 23, 1862. The Merrimac, it is reported, will be out in a day or two. She is very much strengthened, and has one or two guns of larger caliber than she had when she destroyed the Cumberlaud and Congress frigates the 8th of March. The weight of iron added to her has brought her down so that she draws 21~ feet of water. She has an iron beak of 12 feet in length, but below water, and cannot be seen. The object is to run under the upper deck of the Monitor. JOHN E. WGOL, Major- General. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Washington, April 23, 1862. Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown: Thirty 20-pounders will be sent to you from the West Point Foundery, making, with those from New York and Washington, thirty-nine in all. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General Page 121 CnAP. XXIII.] 121 CORRESPONDENCE, ~ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TUE POTOMAC, April 24, 18623 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: Colonel Gove made a very handsome reconnaissance this morning and obtained very important information, x~ithout losing a man. New works discovered on Smiths left this morning. Work on first parallel com- menced to-day under cover of timber. Exposed part on left of Worm- leys Creek will be commenced to-night. Will commence nnder cover of brush the part on right of Wormleys Creek to-morrow morning and complete exposed part to-morrow night. Will also at once commence new batteries. Enemy qniet to-day. All going on well. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, 4tajor- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., April 25, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: GENERAL: The inclosed extract from a letter just received at this Department I am advised by General Hitchcock to send to you, in view of the high character of the writer. I shonld deem it impertinent to obtrude my own opinions or of my own motion to send you such a paper, notwithstanding my intense solic- itude for yonr success and a desire to render any aid I can. Yours, very truly, P. II. WATSON. [Inclosure.] Excnse me for again troubling you, but the condition of things in your neighborhood causes me mnch anxiety. In my opinion there is to be no stand made by the Confederates at Yorktown. The array there and Jeffi Davis visit and inspection is a mere demonstration. If Davis is a general~ which I think he is, he will on some day, in less than ten days, concentrate all his forces suddenly and attack McDowell at Fredericksburg or between that point and Richmond. Preparatory to this he will draw off and is probably now drawing off, all his troops from Yorkto~vn, leaving all the time enough there to amuse McClellan and keep ont of the way his 70,000 men. For this 10,000 men will be ample, and he will hill on McDowell with his whole disposable force. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., April 25, 1862. The PRESIDENT: By the direction of the Secretary of War I transmit herewith for your information the accompanying letter and inclosures just received from The Secretary of the Navy, urging the capture of Norfolk, and suggesting the military measures which in his opiniomi should be taken for the accomplishment of that object. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,, P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War Page 122 122 THE PENIi~TSIILAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. Xxiii (Inclo8ure.] NAVY DEPARTMENT, Hon. E. M. STANTON, April 24, 1862. & cretary of War: SIR: I have the honor to tr~nsmit to you a copy of dispatch, No. 214, of Flag-Officer Goldsborough, received this day at this Department. The views expressed by hini in regard to the possession of Norfolk accord so fully with my own that I deem it a duty to communicate them to you. I know not that it is possible, in the existing state of things, to re-enforce General Burnside as proposed, but the capture- of Norfolk would, in my opinion, next after New Orleans, be the most decisive blow that could be struck for the suppressi~n of the rebellion. I also send you an extract from a dispatch of Commander Missroon, of the steamer Wacliusett, York River, in relation to the works at Yorktown. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. [Sub-inelo8ures.] U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Hampton Roads, April 22, 1862. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cret~try of the Navy: SIR: Three white men (one of them accompanied by his wife and two children) were picked up last night by the Baltimore. They were in a boat, and had, as they say, escaped from Norfolk. One of them has been working for a long time past in the Gosport navy-yard. He describes the Merrimac as being off the yard, with a large gang of men working upon her day and night, fitting shutters to all her side ports. She has always had them, lie says, to her end ports. He also informs me that four new wooden gunboats have been com- pleted at the Norfolk yard and a fifth over in Norfolk, and that all are now ready for service. Furthermore, that at the Norfolk yard they are building rapidly a vessel to be just like the Merrimac in every respect except in size, which is only to be about 1,000 tons; that she is already far advanced toward completion in her wood work, and has even the wood work of her covering or house finished. Neither her en- gines nor any of her iron plates have yet been put in place. It is ex- pected that she will be ready for use in about a month or so. This, he says, is the only vessel to be plated that the enemy is preparing at Norfolk. Besides the above five gunboats they are now building there four more. I am perfectly satisfied of the truth of all these statements. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, L. M. GOLDSBOIROUGII, Flag-Officer, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockade t~quadron. N. B.By a late Norfolk paper, which I forward to the Depai~tment to-day, it appears that a fight caine off last Friday, near Elizabeth City, between some of General ~ men and the enemy, and that the latter were driven half way to Norfolk. The object of the at- tack on our part was, I know, to destroy the lock of the Dismal Swamp Canal at South Mills, which I have no doubt has been accomplished effectually. With this lock destroyed, and the Currituck link of th Page 123 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 123 Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal kept choked, no iron-clad or other gunboats can go from Norfolk to the sounds of North Carolina. No vessel drawing over 3 or 3~ feet of water can pass through Currituck Sound from Norfolk, and so get into Croatan and Pamlico Sounds. I speak from positive information on this point, for I had the experiment tried, in effect, by Lieutenant Jeffers, when he was dispatched by me in charge of an army stern-wheel boat, drawing only 3 feet or so of water, to destroy some salt works at old Currituck Inlet. Could General Burnside be promptly re-enforced with a body of 40,000 men I am convinced that he could possess himself of Norfolk in a fortnight after their arrival at Roanoke Island. This idea I have entertained ever since that island surrendered to our arms, and the more I think of it the more I am confirmed in my be- liet With the force the general would then have, he would, undoubt- edly, u~e the roads leading from Powells Point, Winton, and Gatesville, all three of which are good and practicable, and hold Roanoke Island and Winton as bases of operation. These considerations may be of moment before a great while, if they are not so now. Most respectfully, L. M. G. U. S. STEAMER WACIIUSETT, Yorktown, Va., April 23, 1862. Flag-Officer L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Commanding North Atlantic Blockade Squadron: Siu: The works of the enemy are excessively strong and powe~ully armed. Their cannon are managed and served with surprising accu- racy, exceeding anything I have heretofore known, and there is every indication of a most determined resistance. More than fifty heavy cannon bear upon this bay, and the destruction of vessels of this class is inevitable, if taken under such a fire, without their having the power to inflict any damage or but trifling damage to the enemy, owing to the superior and well-chosen position of their batteries. I believe that any number of vessels of this or the gunboat class wiR not prevail against ~vorks so located as those now before me, and that an increase of numbers will only add to our casualties. General McClellan proposes to dismount some of the cannon before the vessels advance, and it is an evident necessity that he should do so to a very large extent. * * * Respectfully, sir, your obedient servant J. S. MISSEGON, Commander. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 26, 1862. (Received April 279 a. in.). Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I am glad to write that the first parallel now extends to York River, being now complete. The most exposed portion was commenced to- night by the regulars. They are now well under cover, and the parallel will be nearly finished by daylight. Everything quiet to-night. No firing on either side that amounts to anything. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 124 124 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAP. XXITL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Hon. E. lvi. STANTON, April 27, 1862. & cretary of War: The first parallel essentially finished without accident; are at work upon batteries for the 10-inch mortars. Will commence new gun bat- teries to-night. Am anxious for the arrival of the expected 20 and 30 pounder Parrotts. The 13-inch mortars and the 200-pounder Parrotts ten of the first and one of the latterare safely within the mouth of Wormlcys Creek, and will be in batteries to-day. No rain to-day. The roads were becoming horrid again. Enemy fired sharply with artillery for a while this morning, but did no harm. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, IliJia}or- General. HDQRS. HOOKERS DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp Winfield & ott, near Yorktown, Va., April 27, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: I have the honor to report that Lieutenant-Colonel Mott, with 1,000 men, held the advance of my front last night, extending from Porters pickets to the Yorktown road. He reports the exchange of a few shots between his advanced pickets and those of the enemy. One of his men received a slight flesh wound in the leg. One of the rebel pickets de- livered himself up soon after daylight this morning and has been sent to the provost-marshal-general. Valuable information caii be gotten from him. Colonel Brewster, commanding the Seventy-third Regiment New York Volunteers, was posted in the vicinity of Batteries Nos. 2 and 3. I received instructions yesterday for this regiment to throw out pickets to the left of the Yorktown road as far out as Battery No. 5, and ac- coi~1ingly so instructed the officer on duty. This morning he reports that, instead of that, the general of the trenches directed him to post his reserves farther to the right, and extended a portion of the Fourth Maine and Thirty-seventh New York Regiments to the right of the Yorktown road without his being informed that a change was to be made in the disposition of the troops. Colonel Brewster reports that he heard brisk firing, and that he is of opinion that it was between the two last-named regiments. My single object in referring to this subject is to impress upon the mind of the major-general commanding the necessity of having a per- fect understanding in the dispositions for night defense to avoid catas- trophe. Nothing is more easy than for troops to mistake friends for enemies in these movements. As it is required of the general of the trenches to report the opera- tions of the pickets and reserves, is it expected that division command- ers shall do the same thing ~ Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division Page 125 ChAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 125 SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 126. Camp Wi~f Scott, near Yorktn Va., Apl 27,1862. * * * * * * * III. Brig. Gem F. J. Porter is assigned to duty as director of the siege. He will report in person at least twice each day to the general commanding, from whom, or the chief of staff, he will receive his in- structions. Instead of reporting to the chief of staff as heretofore ordered, the generals of the trenches will report to the director of the siege, and obey such orders as he may give them. All persons on duty in the trenches, whether as guards, working l)arties, or serving guns, will obey the orders of the director of the siege. All arrangements in reference to the construction of new works, their armament, and opening fire, & c., will be promptly communicated by the proper officer to the director of the siege as soon as determined upon. it will be the duty of the director of the siege to determine the strength and location of the guards of the trenches, for which he will make requisitions, in ample season, upon the adjutant-general of this army. * * * * * * * VI. The officer charged in each division, by existing orders from these headquarters, with the duty of regulating the details of working parties during the siege will be selected hereafter from the grade of field officers, and will be assisted by three officers of the rank of subal- terus, to be taken from the division. The field officer thus designated, with his assistants, together with the guides heretofore directed to be selected from each division, whose business it will be to acquaint them- selves with the locality of each of the works erected and in progress, will all report to Brig. Gen. F. J. Porter, director of the siege. The assistants to the field officer referred to, if not mounted, will be fur- nished with horses and equipments by the quartermasters department on the requisition of the field officer, approved by the division com- in ander. By command of ~ajor-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 28, 1862.--1Q.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Nothing of interest during the night. No firing on our right, where the work proceeded undisturbed. On the left the enemy fired a good deal, but hurt no one, nor was the work interrupted. Have just sent a heavy field battery to silence a gun or two of the enemy that have been impertinent this morning, but have hurt no one. Weather has improved and we are making good progress. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Page 126 126 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXTTh HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 28, 186211 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Enemy have fired a good deal to-day, and have done no damage that I have heard of. Silenced one of their batteries near Wynns Mill tQ- day. Commenced a battery to-night from. right of first parallel to reach position for a heavy battery bearing upon water batteries and Glouces- ter. Regulars on the work. Enemy have been firing at them; do not know result. Mortar batteries progressing; will soon be ready to open. Would be glad to have the 30-pounder Parrotts in the works around Washington at once. Am very short of that excellent gun. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HDQRS. HOOKERS DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp Winfield Scott, near Yorktown, Va., April 28, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: I have the honor to report that the First Massachusetts Regiment and a part of the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Regiment, in all 1,000 men, nuder Colonel Cowdin, occupied my advanced line of pickets until 6 oclock this morning. The latter reports that the enemy displayed three or four regiments on his right a little before dark last night. About 11 oclock he reports considerable musket firing between the .advanced pickets on and near the Yorktown road. I have nothing of importance to report of the supports of Batteries Kos. 2 and 3, under Colonel Johnson, Eighth Regiment New Jersey Volunteers. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Divtswn. U. S. STEAMER WACHUSETT, York River, April 28, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Comdg. Army of the Potomac, Headquarters near Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: I have reason to believe that the enemy has withdrawn his long-range rifles from Yorktown and has placed them Jn the woods, to operate on this anchorage. The shells for the two 100-pounder ves- sels are nearly exhausted, and I am just now advised that a supply ves- sel may not be expected under three days, and to husband our shells in the mean time. Should the enemy place rifles behind ernbankments 900 yards beyond the margin of the river our 11-inch guns could not reach them, their range for accurate firing being only 1,320 yards and short of 3,000 yards at extreme elevation, while the 100-pounders, mounted on extremely vul- nerable vessels, with their machinery exposed and with crews as yet unpracticed, and short of shell though with abundance of shot, could do little toward displacing the enemy. As the first duty of importance for the vessels will be to cover the landing of General Franklins division, they must be kept intact an Page 127 Ci~. XXflL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETU.-UNION. 127 ready for it. I therefore think it proper to take a position somewhat farther outside my present anchorage, till I get a supply of ammuni- tion or till General Franklin be ready to move, but in the mean time shall keep a steamer jn position to protect the pontoons I see near Sand Box, and shall also throw a few 11-inch shells into Yorktown or Glou- cester, when practicable, at night. I should think that the pontoons at Sand Box indicate to the enemy the intention to land at Gloucester. Very respectfully, J. S. MJSSROON, Commander. (Inclosure.] U. S. STEAMER WACHUSETT, York River, April 15, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, near Yorktown, Th.: Mv DEAR GENERAL: On the receipt of your telegram in regard to ranges, e!evation, charges, & c., of the 100-pounder rifle on board the Sebago last evening, I required the commander of that vessel to fur- nish the information desired, but he informed me he had not the infor- mation, having just been appointed to that vessel. I therefore beg to inclose to you the information I happen to possess on the subject, not only of the 100-pounder, but also of the 20 to 30 pounders, as ascertained by late official experiments, and I consider them quite reliable. The shells you wished thrown into the working parties last evening drove them into the woods, and I have directed the Sebago to occupy a position from which she may operate whenever the enemy may reap- pear there. I am much disappointed at the low ranges obtained last evening of our 11-inch cannon. That class of guns, though destructive when within 1,700 yards, should be made to yield to the 100 and 150 pounder rifle. Respectfully, yours, J. S. MISSROOI{, Commander. I am arranging at this moment to use the Sebago for annoying the enemy with her 100-pounder rifle at Gloucester and Yorktown. OFFICE OF THE SENiOR QUARTERMASTER, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfield Scott, Va., April 28, 1862. General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: With regard to the operations of our department, as con- nected with this army, I have the honor to report that I believe that everything is working very satisfactorily. We have had great difficulties to encounter, but they have been over- come, and the wants of the army have been, and are, supplied promptly. The best evidence of this is that there have been no complaints. Our army is stretched across the Peninsula, the right resting near York- town and the left near James River. All our supplies are drawn from the depots at Cheesemans Creek and Ship Point, except for a smal Page 128 128 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [OHM?. XXIIL portion of the left wing, which are obtained from Fort Monroe. The only difficulties have arisen from the character of the country, which is nearly level and covered with a dense growth of pines. The surface of the country is sandy, resting on quicksand, and during rainy weather the roads are soon rendered impassable, empty wagons even sinking to their beds. Nearly every foot of the roads have been corduroyed; a great many of these roads have been badly made and are exceedingly rough, and the consequence is that the wear and tear of our transporta- tion have been very gm-at. Large working parties are now on them, and, if we should have any more good weather, they will soon be very much improved. I find that mules are the only animals fit for this rough service. Our horse teams suffer severely, and I would recommend that hereafter no more horse teams be provided for our armies, no matter in what part of the country they be serving, as mules are far more serviceable and economical. Our ma-in depots are at Fort Monroe, C heesemans Creek, and Ship Point. I have placed Captain Sawtelle in charge of the depot ht the fort, assisted by Captain Thomas, aud Colonel liigalls in charge of that at Cheesemans Creek, assisted by Captain Rankin, actiug assistant quartermaster, Captain Pinner, brigade quartermaster, and Captaiu Wagner, brigade quartermaster. The latter is in charge of the cloth- ing and camp and garrison equipage. The bulk of the clothing, & c., is kept at 01(1 Point, as I do not desire to accuiuulate any great amount of stores here, as it would embarrass our movements when we advance. Ship Point is at the mouth of Poquosin River, and is used exclusively as the depot for subsistence stores. Cheeseinans Creek depot is about 1 mile to the west of Ship Point, at the junction of Cheesemans and Goose Creeks, a-nd is used for forage, quartermaster stores, and camp and garrison equipage. This depot is about 4 miles from headquarters, and the supplies from it have to be transported a distance of 34 to 7 miles. There is a small depot on Back Creek, from which General F. J. Porters division is sul)plied, the distance of land transportation being al)out the same as from Cheesemnans Creek. There is another small creek (Wormleys) which empties into the York River about 24 miles below Yorktown. This creek ha-s 44 feet of water, and heavy ordnance is sent into it in barges. It is, however, under the fire of the enemys guns, and can only be used at night. Yes- terday one of our barges, loa(led with 400 13-inch shells, was delayed until daylight, when the enemy opened fire on it and burst a 100-pound shell in it and sunk it. The shells will be saved. I send you a map of the scene of our operations, with the roads plainly delineated.* 1 beg here to state that I have received the most cordial and efficient assistance from the officers of our department in charge of the depots at Fort Monroe and Cheesemans Creek, and that Colonel Crosman and Major Belger, as well as Colonel Rucker, have filled all my requi- sitions wit-h the greatest promptness. I feel under many obligations to them for it. I forward you herewith a copy of a circular which I have issued to the officers of our department on duty with this army. I am, very res~)ectfully, your obedient servant, STEWART VAX VLIET, Brigadier- General ~nd Quartermaster. * Not found Page 129 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 129 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 3010 p. m. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: Opened upon Yorktown wharf to-day with Battery No. 1; drove off all their schooners and put a stop to all operations in that quarter. Result quite satisfactory. Work on new batteries progressing rapidly. Condition of roads renders it extremely difficult to get up the heavy guns and ammunition. Raining again to-day. Our first parallel now secure and flanks well covered. Enemy has fired considerably to-day, but I have not learned that any one was injured G-EO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 119. Camp Winf. Scott,near Yorktn, Va.,Apl30, 1862. Paragraph XI of General Orders, No. 102, current series, prescribing flags to designate the various headquarters, is amended as follows: For the headquarters of the Cavalry Reserveyellow flag, with two blue stripes,. 6 inches in width, crossing diagonally. First Brigade, Cavalry Reserveyellow flag with a blue star in the center. Second Brigade, Cavalry Reserveyellow flag with two blue stars in the center. For the Artillery Reservered flag with a white star in the center. For the brigade of regular infantryblue flag with a white star in the center. All the above flags to be 6 feet long and 5 feet wide. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 129. f Camp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn, Va., Apl 30, 62. * * * * * * * II. Brig. Gen. Philip Kearny is assigned to the command of the Third Division of the Third Army Corps, in place of Brig. Gen. C. S. Hamilton, relieved. By order of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. u BVOL XI, PT Il Page 130 130 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXIII. The number of men composing the Army of the Potomac on the 30th day of April, 1862. a ~2 e ~ d~ 0 cS d~ 5.3 ~ ac.,.4 ~ a o-~ ~c ~ 0 General staff, Engineers and Engineer Brigade, cavalry dIvision, 13,787 798 2,072 16, 657 escort to headquarters, and provost guards. Second Corps (General Sumner) 19, 054 887 2, 0611 22,002 Third Corps (General Heintzelman) 34, 633 2,009 3, 068~ 39710 Fonrth Corps (General Keyes) 33, SF6 1; 886 4,089 I 39, 561 8ranklins division 11, 332 270 846 12,448 112,392 5,850 12,136 130,378 ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., December 31, 1862. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately com- piled from the morning report of the Army of the Potomac of the 30th day of April, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assist- ant adjutant-general, Seth Williams, and now on file in this office.* E. D. TOWNSEND, As8istant Adjutant- General. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, May 1, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your call for Parrott guns from Washington alarms me, chiefly be- cause it argues indefinite procrastination. Is anything to be done? A. LiNCOLN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC General E. V. SUMNER, May 1, 18629 p. m. Commanding Left Wing: There are indications on our right front of the enemy~5 attempting something to-night or early in the morning. Please have Richardson ready to move an hoar before day if wanted. I do not ask you to keep a good lookout, because I know you are always on the alert. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 1, 1862. G meral FITZ JOHN PORTER: Have you provided the field batteries Lansing asks for? I will have See Series I, Vol. V, p. 13 Page 131 Cn.& ~. Xxiii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tINION. 131 the regulars ready before daybreak and some of Hunts batteries har- nessed up. Shall I do more than this ~l GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS, May 1, 1862 Col. A. Y. COLBTJRN, Assistant Adjutant- General: Porters division has about 11,400 enlisted men for duty; Hookers about 9,450 for duty, excluding the regiment stationed at Ship Point, and Hamiltons about 8,900 for duty. In this estimate the artillery and cavalry of each division are excluded. General Porter has 100 men on daily duty under Major Myer. General Hamilton has 130 men on daily duty at these headquarters and at the two saw mills, and General Hooker has 1,500 at work daily on the Yorktown and Hampton road, and it will require several more days to finish it. CHAUNCEY McKEEYER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 1, 186211 p. m. (Received May 3, 186211.30 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Our work is going on very well. The batteries of the first parallel will be ready before the guns and mortars can be got to their places. Enemy fires a great deals hits very few, thanks to our trenches. He an no longer use his wharf on York River. Our rifle pits are rightly advancing. Inflications of a brush to-night. The time for opening fire is now rapidly approaching. Enemy still in force and working hard. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 186212 m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Enemy fired continually during the night, doing but little damage. Our rifle pits on our left advanced considerably during the night and ~omewltat on the right. Our batteries being rapidly completed, not- withstanding the enemys fire, which is quite warm. To-day our No. I is firing with good effect. Weather favorable to-day. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN~ Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 18629 p. m. (Received May 4, 18629.30 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The enemys fire very hot to-day and rained almost continuously. Have heard of but 2 killed. It seems quite probable, almost certain Page 132 132 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP, XXIII. that one of his 8-inch guns burst this afternoon. No. 1 has been firing to-day with good effect. The weather has been so favorable to-day that we have made unusual progress, not only in construction of trenches and batteries, but also in landing and bringing up guns and ammunition. I had a very satisfactory interview to-day with the new commodore of the flotilla. You have not much longer to wait. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 3, 186210 a. m. (Received May 3, 18624.15 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Enemy unusually quiet last night and this morning. Our rifle pits l)ushed forward considerably last night. Most satisfactory progress being made in arming the batteries. It now seems certain that one of his large guns burst yesterday. No. 1 seems to give good results. The bursting of its shells in town appears to cause a disagreeable excitement. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. CAMP WINFIELD SCOTT, May 3, 1862. (Received May 4, 18628 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: I regret to learn that Colonel Campbell, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, has been placed in arrest by Major-General McDowell for endeavorir~g to comply with my positive order to him to report with his regiment for duty at this place. This regiment was never assigned to General McDowells corps, but was detailed by me to General Keyes corps. I, of course, expected it to follow me as soon as transportation could be provided, and am not a little surprised to learn that my instruc- tions have been interfered with and my force diminished by the action of the commanding officer of the Department of the Rappahannock, in violation of General Orders, No. 29 War Department, AdjuJ2ant-Gen- erals Office, March 22, 1862. Under these circumstances I beg the immediate interposition of the War Department to relieve from arrest a meritorious officer, against whom there appears to be no complaint save that of obedience to the orders of his rightful commander. I also ask that the regiment, as well as the First New Jersey, Colonel Wyndham, may be permitted to join the army under my command without further delay. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, General S. WILLIAMS, Camp Winfield Scott, May 3, 1862. Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: I believe it will be advisable to bring Richardsons divi Page 133 STIAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133 ion farther to the front in order to strengthen my long line. Will you speak to the commanding general about this and let me hear from you? Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. V. SUMNER, Bri~qadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. THIRD Div., THIRD CORPS k 7 No. 1. Camp Winfleld Scott, near Yorktown, ilJiay 3,1862. Pursuant to im~structions from headquarters of the army and of the oorps I hereby assume command of the division composed of Generals Jamesons, Birneys, and Berrys brigades, and of Thompsons, Beam~s, and Randolphs batteries. P. KEARNY, Brigadier- General, Gommanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 133. Camp Winf. Scott, near Yorktn, Va., May 3, 62. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. F. E. Patterson, volunteer service, having reported to the commanding general, in obedience to the instructions of the War Department, is assigned to duty in Hookers division Third and will report accordingly. , Army Corps, * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 18621.30 p. m. General FRANKLIN, Cheesemans Creek: What progress are you making in embarking your command? The sommanding general desires you to move up to Yorktown as soon as you are embarked. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4. (Received 12 in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Yorktown is in our possession. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding Page 134 134 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS Aw~*x OF TIJ~E POTOMAC, May 4, 1862.9 a. m. (Received 4.15 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: We have the ramparts; have guns, ammunition, camp equipage, & e. Hold the entire line of his works, which the engineers report as being very strong. I have thrown all my cavalry and horse artillery in pur- suit, supported by infantry. I move Franklin and as much more as I can transport by water up to West Point to-day. No time shall be lost. Gunboats have gone up York River. I omitted to state that Gloucester is also in our possession. I shall push the enemy to t~e wall. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 186211.20 a. in. (Received 4.15 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: An inspection just made shows that the rebels abandoned in their works at Yorktown two 3-inch rifle cannon, two 4k-inch rifle cannon, sixteen 32-pounders, six 42-pounders, nineteen 8-inch columbiads, four 1I~-inch Dahigrens, one 10-inch coluinbiad, one 10-inch mortar, one 8-inch siege howitzer, with carriages and implements complete, each piece sup- plied with 76 rounds of ammunition. On the ramparts there are also four magazines, which have not yet been examined. This does not in- clude the guns left at Gloucester Point and other works to 6hr left. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington Gity, I). (J., May 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Yorktown: Accept my cordial congratulations upon the success at Yorktown, and I am rejoiced to hear that your forces are in active pursuit. Pleas. furnish me with the details as far as they are acquired, and I hope soon to hail your arrival at Richmond. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 18627 p. in. (Received May 5, 8.40 a. in.) lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Our cavalry and horse artillery came up with the enemys rear guard in their intrenchments about 2 miles this side of Williamsburg. A brisk fight ensued. Just as my aide left, Smiths division of infantry arrived on the ground and I presume carried his works, thongh I have not yet heard. The enemy~s rear is strong, but I have force enough up there to answer all purposes. We have thus far seventy-one heavy guns, large; large amounts of tents, ammunition, & c. All along th Page 135 CHAr. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 135 lines their works prove to have been most formidable, and I am now fully satisfied of the correctness of the course I have pursued. The success is brilliant, and you may rest assured that its effects will be of the greatest importance. There shall be no delay in following up the rebels. The rebels have been guilty of the most murderous and bar- barous conduct in placing torpedoes within the abandoned works near wells and springs; near flag-staffs, magazines, telegraph offices, in carpet-bags, barrels of flour, & c. Fortunately we have not lost many men in this mannersome 4 or 5 killed and perhaps a dozen wounded. I shall make the prisoners remove them at their own peril. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HBAD~UARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER: Please have Richardsons and Sedgwicks divisions under arms at once and await further orders. Have the baggage wagons left with guards to follow. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER: The enemy has abandoned Yorktown, leaving all their heavy guns, ammunition, tents, & c. General Stoneman is just starting out on the Yorktown road toward Williamsburg, with all our cavalry, four batteries of light artillery, and will shortly be followed by a division of infantry. He is to push on to Williamsburg, and your command, which goes on toward Williams- burg, will probably meet this command near the Halfway House. You will please hold the remainder of your command in readiness to march at short notice. It is not supposed that there are more than a few regiments this side of Williamsburg. R. B. MARCY, Chief o Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. General FITz JOHN PORTER, Commanding Division: Stoneman found five or six regiments of inflintry, two of cavalry, and a battery in intrenchments near Williamsburg. Several cavalry charges, in all of which we gained the advantage; could do nothing against intrenchments. Four divisions of infantry now there, and the works no doubt carried an hour or so ago. Will inform you when I hear further. You will probably move by water. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Page 136 136 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ICHAP. XXIIL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. Brigadier-General IIEINTZELMAN: Please have Kearny~s division ready to move at once. A. V. COLBUliN, Assistant Adjutant- General. MAY 4, 1862. Brig. Gen. FITZ JOHN PORTER: The general desires that some troops be thrown over to Gloucester as soon as means for crossing the river are sent up. A. V. COLBU1~K, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. Brig. Gen. FITZ JOHN PORTER: Please prepare to leave the smallest possible garrison in Yorktown and Gloucester and hold the rest of your division ready to move and to fight. By order: A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. Brigadier-General SEDGWICK: General McClellan directs that you move to the vicinity of Yorktown to-morrow morning, with all your transportation, to be there at 9 oclock if possible. Camp near the first parallel in front of it and there await fnrther orders. Give particular directions to your men not to leave camp; it is dan- gerous going about Yorktown until the torpedoes are removed. A. V. COLBURK, A ssistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Left Wing: General McClellan desires that you move at least two, and if necessary three, divisions to the front on the road toward Williamsburg, until you get to where the firing now is, or abreast of it, if it is on another road,. and try to turn the enemy if possible. Communicate frequently. A. V. COLBUIRN, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 137 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 137 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. General E. D. KEYES, Lees Mill: The commanding general directs that you move with the part of your corps remaining to Williamsburg to-morrow by the most direct road. Please give directions to have all the wagons and baggage and supplies go forward with the troops, as well as the wagons of the divisions that went forward to-day. Please answer. B. B. MARCY, Chi~f of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 4, 1862. General SUMNER or General SMITH: Push on after the enemy in front of Smith. General Hooker is en route for Half-way House and will be in position to cut off their retreat. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. SMITHS HEADQUARTERS, May 4, 1862. General MCCLELLAN: The enemy is reported to be in strong force in front of me. I am going to engage him unless I get other orders. I would suggest that the forces at Lees Mill and on our right be ordered to advance to add support. WM. F. SMITH, Brigadier- General. MAY 4, 1862. General WILLIAM F. SMITH: How far in front of you and about how strong is the enemyl Do not engage him until ordered by me, as I am making other arrange- ments to cut him oIL GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MAY 4, 1862. Coin. SMITH, Commanding Fleet: I learn that a large part of the rebel force marched to Biglers Mill~ on the York River, last night, to take sail from there to West Point. It is of the first importance to my operations that some of your gun- boats hurry up to West Point to destroy the transportation and report to me the state of affairs. Franklins division will be ready to go up under convoy of the other gunboats as soon as I can hear from the river. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, t3~ommanding Page 138 138 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CUAP. Xxiii. MAY 4, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Biglers Wharf is burning. There are no batteries for 12 miles up the river. I have sent a steamer to burn the railroad bridge over Pa- anunkey River. SMITh. MAY 4, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Steamer Chocura has returned from West Point. No obstructions or batteries on the river. No guns or troops at West Point. White flag at that place and at other points on the river. The frames of two large vessels building at West Point. W. SMITH. WAR DEPARTMENT, May 4, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Fort ]Jfonroe: The President desires to know whether your force is in condition for a sudden movement, if one should be ordered und Please have it in readiness. , er your command. EDWIN M. STANTON. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 135. Camp Win]. Scott, near Yorktn, Va., May4, 62. * * * * * * * VI. Brig. Gen. James II. Van Alen is appointed military governor and commandant of Yorktown and Gloucester. The Forty-fourth New York Volunteers, Colonel Stryker, will form the garrison of Yorktown, and Colonel Comforts regiment (known as the Enfans Perdus) the gar- rison of Gloucester. These regiments will report accordingly. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS. Assistant Adjutant- General. FORT MONROE, VA., May 5, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: My infantry are ready to march at any moment, with provisions, am- munition, & c. I have one field battery ready for the field. If I had horses, I could fit out three fine batteries. I have also several squad- rons of dragoons ready to move. If I knew whether it was for land or sea service I could answer more definitely. If for sea service, there would be no delay. If for land service, in consequence of having given to General McClellan much of our transportation, we are (leficient in that l)articular, and it might delay me a day or two. JOhN E. WOOL, Major- General Page 139 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 139 FORT MONROE, VA., May 5, 186210 p. is. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: 1 have made inquiries since my dispatch of this a. m. The quar- termaster at this post has no horses or trains to spare from the Potomac Army. Major-General McClellan has called on me to place two regi- ments at Stony Creek Court-H~ouse, or Lees Mill, to protect his rear for the time being. I have deemed proper to give you this informalion, in order that you may perfectly understand the position of General Mc- Clellan. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD I)IYISION, THIRD CORPS, Camp Jameson, May 5, 1,8624 a. in. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the P(tomac: GENERAL: Under a misconstruction of the orders of General Heint- zeiman I have advanced to a point on the Williamsburg road 3 miles beyond Yorktown, where I am encamped an(l awaiting orders from Gen- eral lleintzelniau, which he will send me (or orders from your head- quarters.) Very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. KEALINY, Brigadier- General, Commanding Third Division. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 5, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Raining hard now and most of the night; roads consequently in- famous. Enemy still at Williamsburg. Heavy firing now going on. The weather has delayed Franklin to-day. Hope to overcome all ob- stacles yet and throw a sufficient force up the York to cut the enemys line of retreat. Several of our batteries are actually stuck fast in the mud. The men have done all that could be done. No signs of cessa tion of rain. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 5, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER: The general commanding directs that you occupy Lees Mill at once, and push forward a reconnaissance with cavalry, two brigades of in- fantry, and three batteries on the road toward Groves Wharf and the Half-way House, having the roads and bridges put in order as rapidly as possible. Send the cavalry on in the direction of Groves Wharf until they ascertain where the enemy is, and the infantry and artiller Page 140 140 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. as far as the Half-way House, directing the commander to send back frequent reports during the day. R. B. MARCY Chief of AS~taJf MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 5. WILLIAM B. FRANKLIN: GENERAL: I am directed by the commanding general to say that lie desires you to move up the river so as to be at your landing at day- break, according to the instructions he gave you to-day. Sedgwicks division will follow you as soon as transports can be supplied. Rich- ar(lson will follow, and all be landed at the point where you disem- bark, and all will of course be under your command. The pontoon train will be sent up to Yorktown to-night. R. B. MARCY, Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ASunday, May 5, 18622.43 p. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: We are at Lebanon, stopped by General Sumners orders. The direct road in front cf us is impassable for artillery, but I have sent Lieutenant Bowen, who reports a good road through the fields leading into it a mile forward. The bridge at Skiff Creek is partially burned, but was extinguished by Lieutenant Custer, who burned his hands in doing it. The enemy retreated on that road, and it is reported they have two pieces of artillery three-quarters of a mile beyond the bridge. I can turn the head of the creek and the artillery and come into that road to Williamsburg 3 miles from here. I dont think the report about the infantry this morning was correct. I think we have only met the cavalry rear guard. The report, however, came from Captain Chambliss. Lieutenant Custer exchanged shots with the cav- alry at the bridge. Regiments camped here last night, and the rebels have been making such changes in the brigades as to show that the Southern troops are getting anxious to get back to their homes. I await orders 1~ miles beyond here. WM. F. SMITH Brigadier~6Ze,~erat. P. S.Our road through the fort was lined with torpedoes, but hap- pily none went off. There is a heavy black smoke to our left. We have taken 4 deserters and 1 prisoner, besides provisions, arms, and stores of various kinds of no account. As I dont know which road you may wish me to take from here, I had better probably await orders here in place of going on to avoid the bad place iii front of us. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ~-eneral FITZ JOHN PORTER: May 5, 1862. General Van Alen has been notified that you are in charge of affairs at Yorktown and its vicinity Page 141 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 141 I have just received information from General McClellan. Every- thing was quiet when the messenger left. He says if the regulars have not broken up their camp, and the other troops which have been placed under your command to-night, that all but one brigade might remain in the camps, but if they had broken up their camps and takeii position in front of Yorktown they had better remain. IR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfield Scott, lIfay 5, 1862. Col. R. INGALLS, Yorktown: Send immediately to General Sedgwick and General Richardson the following: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfield Scott, May 5, 1562. General I. B. RICHARDSON, General Join~ SEDGWICK: Move immediately with your divisions toward Williamsburg, and continue march- ing until you reach the front, or receive further orders. Take two days rations ix the haversacks of the troops. Move rapidly, the wagons to follow. - By command of Major-General McClellaa: S. WILLIAMS, Assi8tant Adjutani-General. Acknowledge receipt of this message, and telegraph report of receipt of their messages by Generals Sedgwick and Richardson. R. B. MARCY. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 5, 1862. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Colonel Colburns two dispatches just received and all the orders issued, viz: Sedgwicks and Richardsons divisions to move at once toward Williamsburg until ordered to stop. General Porter (F. J.) to hold his division, Hunts Artillery Reserve, the regulars, and Rushs and Greggs cavalry iu front of Yorktown. Very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staft. P. S.i have ordered General Franklin not to move up the river till further orders. Is this right ~ FORT MONROE, VA., May 5, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I sent by mail a copy of Colonel Ingalls dispatch to me about trans- ports. The only additional information I have been able to obtain is the following extract from a message from General Marcy: In the absence of General McClellan at the front I have to inform you that the ge Page 142 142 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. oral has ordered all the available transports to carry troops to West Point, and a part of them have started from Cheesemans Creek. Your dispatch will be laid before the general this evening. I havenot yet received anything further from headquarters. To-morrow I can have, subject to your order, the following vessels, which can be unloaded here, viz: Steamers Robert Morris, New Haven, New York, and City of Richmond, which, with the Ocean Queen, would transport 3,500 troops. Six schooners will also be unloaded, which could be towed by these steamers. If I receive any further information from General McClellan during the night I xviii communicate it. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Williamsburg, May 5, 18621.45 p. m. (Received May 66 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Mr. Tuckers telegram relative to the vessels was received after Frank. uns division had embarked and on the way to West Point. Another division goes in the morning, and the last is absolutely necessary to support the first. This movement i~ of the greatest importance. I will release the vessels just as soon as the troops are landed. Nothing new except what I told you in my last dispatch. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. P. S.Some of the main works of the enemy are in our possession and I am pushing troops forward, but the roads are horrible. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brig. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, ][ftui 5, 1862. Commanding Third Corps: GENERAL: General McClellan directs me to say that in addition to the instructions sent you by General Sweitzer that some troops will be kept in reserve at the Half-way House, to be sent tQ you if necessary, but ke does not think you will require them, and he will probably have use for them at other points. He does not wish to have you attack at daylight unless you receive orders to do so. He desires you to open communication as early as possible between here and your headqnarters. It is probable that Hancocks success this afternoon will at least check the enemy. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 5, 1862.. General SMITH: Ayres and Mott have been ordered to join you at once Page 143 CHAP. XXIIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 14~ Brooks is ordered to be with you by daylight, and a staff officer dur- ing the night, to post the general fully about the condition of things. A. Y. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. BIVOUAC IN FIELD, NEAR WILLIAMSBURG, May 5, 18629.40 p. m. General W. B. FRANKLIN: GENERAL: I found great confusion here, but all is now right. Hancock made a magnificent charge, taking 150 prisonerskilling a& many more. I now feel safe. Have ordered Sedgwick to fall back at daylight to Yorktown, there to embark under your orders. Please push your movement as rapidly as possible, securing the land- ing beyond all doubt, and being cautious though bold in your advance. Keep me fully informed. I think the enemy will evacuate during the night; if not, I can probably beat him. I will, as soon as matters are developed here, push up Porters, the regulars, and other divisions, join- ing you myself as soon as I feel safe here. We have now a tangent hit. I arrived in time. Ever, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. P. 5.Since the above was written it is ascertained that Joe John- ston is in command in front beyond a doubt. A. V. COLBURN. HEADQUARTERS FORT MONROE, May 6, 1862. (Received 12.20 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: The desponding tone of Major-General McClellans dispatch of last evening more than surprises me. He says his entire force is undoubt- edly considerably inferior to that of the rebels. If such is the fact I am still more surprised that they should have abandoned Yorktown. JOHN E~ WOOL, Major- General. FORT MONROE, Yx., May 6, 1862. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN,. Williamsburg: No order has been given to deprive you of any transportation~ Neither has it been contemplated to deprive you of any, but only te employ any surplus not required for your use. EDWIN M. STANTON. WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, May 6, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, U. S. A., Commanding Army of the Potomac, Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to forward herewith copies of letter Page 144 44 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. xxm. from the Surgeon-General in relation to the care and transportation of the sick at Yorktown. The Secretary of War directs that the arrange- ments therein proposed may be carried into effect. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure.] SURO-EON-GENELiAL5 OFFICE, Washington City, April 25, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army: GENERAL: I inclose herewith the copy of a letter addressed to the Secretary of War in relation to the care and transportation of the wounded at Yorktown, & c. The arrangements there proposed have been approved by the Secre- tary, and I have therefore to request that the necessary orders may be given to the generals commanding the Army of the Potomac and the Department of Virginia to detach 11,000 of the wonnded to be trans- ported to New York. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, R. C. WOOD, Acting Surgeon- General. [5ubinc1osur~.] SURGEON.GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, April 18, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge yonr communication of yes- terday, and have to state that it will give me pleasure to co-operate cordially with the Sanitary Commission in devising and executing an efficient plan of operations for the care and relief of the sick and wounded of the army before Yorktown. There is a concurrence of views between Dr. Van Buren and myself. It is proposed to place at the disposal of the Sanitary Commission a steamboat of requisite accommodations, to be furnished with all the necessary conveniences, and to I)lace on her such comforts, bedding, & c., as the commission may have available; all deficiencies to be sup- plied by the Medical Bureau. The steamboat to proceed to Fort Mon- roe and await events. Other steamboats should also be held at Old Point Comfort for the recel)tion and transportation of 2,500 wounded men. Accommodations for the immediate reception of 3,000 wounded men have been made, and the hospitals reported ready. The medical director, Army of the Potomac, has been directed by telegraph to send the wounded to the following points, to avoid a retransfer: Washington 1,500 H Georgetown 400 Alexandria 400 Baltimore 700 Total 3 000 in addition to this, accommodations are prepared for 600 at Phila- delphia, 400 at Annapolis Page 145 CHAP. XXHI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 145 I would recommend that instructions be given to send 1,000 of the sick and wounded, to be selected with reference to their condition, to the city of New York. This gives accommodations for 5,000 men, to be modified by the event of battle and other circumstances. In connection with the above I have to state that the medical director at Fort Monroe has been directed to vacate his hospitals in the event of battle and receive all the badly wounded who would be injured by transportation. Respectfully submitted. R. C. WOOD, Acting Surgeon- General. FORT MONROE, Tuesday Evening, May 6, 186210 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: The President, with Secretary of the Treasury, reached here a few minutes ago, having left Washington last evening, and we are rejoiced to learn the success of your recent operations. I find here a copy of your dispatch of this days date, and in answer to inquiry state that you are authorized to inscribe the names of battles upon regimental banners at your discretion. We shall remain here a day or two, and will be glad to confer with you to-morrow and render you any assistance. EDWiN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE .POTOMAC, ]Iliay 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. D. KEYES, Commanding Fourth Corps: General McClellan directs that you order a brigade to march at 11 oclock a. m. to-morrow, and proceed to the point marked A on the inclosed map.* Four companies of cavalry will be ordered to go over the road marked B C, there to examine Barretts Ferry and the crossing D over the Chickahominy, returning before night to the point A. The brigade will probably remain at the point A for two or three days. Please arrange for supplying them with rations accordingly. [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Allay 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Second Corps: General McClellan directs that you return with your headquarters to the vicinity of Yorktown. You will order General Richardson to return *Not found. 10 R HVOL XI, PT II Page 146 146 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIII. to camp near that place and prepare to embark. Further orders will be given you before the embarkation of your headquarters and Rich- ardsons division takes place. Sedgwick has been put on special service, soon to join you. [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant-General. From MCCLELLANS. (Received May 6, 1862.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Washington: SIR: McDowell and Banks should advance promptly on Richmond to make diversion in favor of the advance of this army, now energetic. ally pursuing the enemy. The Galena and a few gunboats should pass up the James River to prevent tne enemy from embarking from their position near Williams- bnrg. They now have ten steamboats transporting their retiring forces. The enemy fight well. WM. SPRAGUE. WILLIAMSBURG, May 7, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: Your dispatch of yesterday received. I have sent out a strong ad- vance guard this morning to endeavor to make its way over the bad roads and ascertain the movements of the enemy. Until the roads im- prove both in front and rear no large body of troops can be moved. I dare not leave my command in the present state of affairs, so that it is really impossible for me to go to the rear to meet the President and yourself. I sent cavalry to Jamestown yesterday, who found the bat- tery abandoned, magazine burned up, gun-carriages burned, guns still there. I am satisfied that we have one or more desperate battles to fight before we gain possession of Richmond and that we shall need to employ all our skill, caution, and means to gain our ends. We will probably have to meet their concentrated forces. I have seen as yet no demonstration of Union feeling worth mentioning. If it is a possible thing for the Galena and other gunboats to move up James River we would be materially assisted. I learn that one of the enemys principal gunboats is at Norfolk; the other in Richmond. I allude to the Jamestown and Yorktown. It is stated that the country is destitute of persons and the necessities of life. I would invite the attention of the Secretary of Treasury to the subject of opening trade. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, VA., May 7, 1862. Flag-Officer GOLDSBOROUGH: SIR: Major-General McClellan telegraphs that he has ascertained by a reconnaissance that the battery at Jamestown has been abandoned, and he again requests that gunboats may be sent up the James River Page 147 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 147 If you have tolerable confidence that you can successfully contend with the 1~1Ierrimac without the help of the Galena and two accompany- ing gunboats, send the Galena and two gunboats up the James River at once. Please report your action on this to me at once. I shall be found either at General Wools headquarters or on board the Miami. Your obedient servant, A. LINCOLN. FORT MONROE, VA., May 7, 1862midnights Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Your dispatch received, and I am rejoiced at the success of your oper- ations. An expedition under command of Captain Rodgers will, under express orders, be sent up the James River to-night, consisting of the Galena and two gunboats, for the purpose of co-operating with you. They start a~ soon as pilots can be found. Is there anything else you want? EDWIN M. STANTON. FORT MONROE, May 7, 1862. P. II. WATSON, Assistant & cretary of War: We have had no news of any operations of the army beyond Williams- burg to-day, and no details of the killed and wounded in the late engage- ment. You may telegraph McDowell to get his force well in hand for movement, and push on his bridges to as rapid completion as possible. It is not yet perfectly clear what the movement of the force lately in Yorktown will be. EDWIN M. STANTON. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 7, 1862. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN: We have reason to believe that parties of the enerny~s cavalry are in the woods to the right of the main road to Biglers Mill; they yester- day took 2 or 3 of our men prisoners. Please watch your right flank carefully. General Keim will be ordered to send some infantry and cavalry from the point A toward the right to break up that position and endeavor to catch them. Troopers will be sent out from this vicinity for the same purpose. [A. V. COLBURN,] Assistant Adjutant- General. P. 5.It is too late now for General Keim to make that movement to-day. Cavalry will be sent out from here on the road to Biglers Mill Page 148 148 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXILL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Winfield Scott, May 7, 1862. Col. GEO. A. II. BLAKE, Commanding Brigade of Cavalry: COLONEL: The commanding general directs that you send immedi- ately a squadron of cavalry, under an efficient and prudent officer, to Mulberry Point, on the James River side, and such other points on Mulberry Island as were occupied by the enemy, to ascertain the nature of the works and operations of the enemy in that quarter. It will be ascertained if guns or other property were abandoned by the enemy. It is desired that you procure a guide in Yorktown to accompany the troops, if possible. A map is sent you containing all the information in possession of the topographical bureau at these headquarters with regard to the region in question. The duty involved will require circumspection on the part of the officer to guard against any surprise, and is to be executed with expe- dition and dispatch. On his return the officer will make a detailed report of his expedition. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. MAY 7 [a?], 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters near Williamsburg: Commander Rodgers, with three gunboats, started this morning up the James River. If you can aid them any way with supplies, in case they run short, it may be well to be in condition to do so. A rebel tug- boat from Norfolk came over and surrendered to us this morning. They report that for three days Norfolk is being evacuated, the navy-yard being dismantled, the troops going some to Richmond and others, north to join Jackson. The Yorktown, Jamestown, and two other rebel gun- boats are up the James River, aiid the Merrimac will probably try to get up to-day. An attack on Sewells Point batteries will be made to-day by Corn- inodore Goldsborough and General Wool. Report anything you need. The deserters say there is great con- sternation in Richmond and Norfolk. The machinery of the navy-yard, and all the cotton, tobacco, and oil are being shipped to Weldon and Raleigh. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE POTOMAC, Hon. E. M. STANTON, Williamsburg, May 7, 1862. Secretary of War: Franklins and Sedgwicks divisions are near West Point, landed, and as I am informed were engaged with the enemy during most of the day, with good apparent results. I am pushing up re-enforcemeuts to him as rapidly as possible. I sent out Stoneman this morning with cavalry, artillery, and infantry to reconnoiter the country along th Page 149 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. -149 Lower Chiekahominy; they have not yet returned. I have had a large force repairing roads so that 1 can pass artillery over them. My Own movements to-morrow will depend 111)011 Stonemans report to-night. I regret that my presence with the army at this particular time is of such vast importance that I cannot leave to confer with the President and yourself but I dare not leave for one hour. The enemy were badly whipped, but will probably fight again. Our men behaved nobly anti are in excellent heart and spirits. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, lJfay 7, 1862. General MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: It is absolutely necessary to keep our supplies afloat, and land them only as they are wanted, until our base of operations is fixed at West Point or above. Our depot was at first at Old Point, then at Cheese- mans Creek, and now at Yorktown. Franklins and Sedgwicks divis- ions have just landed near West Point, and are now fighting under the guns of the gunboats. Porters division is rapidly embarking to re-en- force them, and will be off to-night. These frequent embarkations of large masses of troops, which I anticipated, has compelled me to retain the water transportation. I can dispense with a large portion of it as soon as our final base of operations is fixed. I have about 4,000 sick and wounded to send off. The vessels taken away and sent up the iRappahannock have embarrassed me. The Ocean Queen will be dis- patched as you direct. STEWART VAN YLIET, Quartermaster. EN ROUTE, May 7, 186212.30 oclock. Captain SUYDAM, Assistant Adjutant-General: SIR: Started at 11 a. m. There is a space of 1j wideabout 14 on the right side there is grain and good pasturage; on the left hand a plowed field. One heavy gun found. At the commencement of it it is bad, improves, and then alternates between good and bad. One half mile of wood on both sides. Two heavy guns found. Road bad; two wagons left in road. From this point a contraband said they marched rapidly. The Second Rhode Island and Ninety-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers ahead about one hour. Another large gun, 42-pounder, found 3~ miles. Firing heard distinctly ahead a little to the left. Yours, very truly, WM. H. KEIM, Brigadier- General. Memorandum. The above is just received from Brigadier-General Keim. The or- derly waits. Has General McClellan any orders concerning matters in front to send to General Keim ~? Respectfully, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps Page 150 150 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE POTOMAC, McClellans, May 8, 1862. M. S. LATHAM and H. M. RICE, Fort Monroe: On Monday, at 5 p. in., General McClellan arrived on the ground. When he came our left had been turned; Hooker driven back badly cut up, and a concentration of heavy force was made to cut oA Han- cock, who had turned the enemys left at 1 p. in., and who, although he had begged for re-enforcements the entire day, got none. The first order given by General McClellan was to send sufficient force to Han- cock, which saved us from sad disaster. General McClellan had ordered a reconnaissance, and never dreamed that Sumner, Heintzel- man, and Keyes would bring on a fight. For Gods sake make no major- generals without knowing the truth. There was more stupidity ex- pended on that day and more sacrifice of life than many would want to hear of. Our men behaved well. Yours, NAGLEE CAMP, NINETEEN MILEe FROM WILLIAMSBURG, May 8, 18623 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have possession of New Kent Court-House, Cumberland, and White House. My troops are closing well up to-day and drawing sap- plies from Eltham. Reconnaissances are being pushed. One of our parties of cavalry was within 6 miles of Bottoms Bridge yesterday. I am very glad to hear that we have Norfolk. Nothing from Galena, ex- cept that she is again afloat and has gone up the river. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS, Williamsburg, May 8, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your two telegrams received. I have sent cavalry to Jamestown to endeavor to communicate with Rodgers. General Stoneman is some 14 or 15 miles in advance, and may be able to communicate with Franklin to-night. I shall start Smiths division this afternoon, and I hope three others to-morrow morning. The difficulties arising from the roads are very great, but I will manage to surmount them. If I can effect the junction with Franklin I shall consider our next step gained. It is a delicate matter, but it can be done. I think that the time has arrived to bring all the troops in Eastern Virginia into perfect co-operation. I expect to fight another and very severe battle before reaching Rich- mond and with all the troops the Confederates can bring together, and therefore should have all the re-enforcements that can be given me. It is of course possible that the enemy may abandon Richmond with- out a battle, but we have no right to take that for granted. All the troops on the Rappahannock, and if possible those on the Shenandoah, & hould take part in the approaching battle. We ought immediately t Page 151 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 151 concentrate everything and not run the risk of engaging a desperate enemy with inferior force. All minor considerations should be thrown to one side and all our energies and means directed toward the defeat of Johnstons army in front of Richmond. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WILLIAMSBTJRG. (Received May 8, 1862.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have absolutely no information in detail of the country in our front and are obliged to grope our way. I would respectfully and ear- nestly urge that the Chief of Topographical Engineers be directed to lend me eight or ten officers junior to General Humphreys to move with this army until we have reached Richmond. Such a detail would save us many days in time and many lives. I cannot urge it too strongly. All goes well. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WILLIAMSBURG. (Received May 8, 1862.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just received intelligence that our advance guard is in corn- munication with General Franklins command. The inhabitants report the force in front of General Franklin as being from 80,000 to 120,000 strong. They are in full retreat on the line of the Chickahominy, where it is said that they intend to make a stand. Franklins division con- ducted itself most gallantly. I move with my command to-morrow. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WILLIAMSBURG. (Received May 8, 186211.15 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I sent a party of cavalry to Jamestown to-day at 12 oclock. They remained until three-quarters of an hour after sunset. The officer re- ports that three side-wheel steamers passed up the river. He was in- formed by persons there that they were the Yorktown, Patrick Henry, and some other they did not know. Another party on proceeding some distance down the river saw the three steamers as they passed close in- shore, and each bore the Confederate flag. I have heard nothing of Captain Rodgers. Can you give me any information as to his move- ments ~ When did he leave Fort Monroe 0? GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Page 152 152 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ICHAP. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Williamsburg, May 8, 1862. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, ChiefofCaralry: General Franklin was yesterday attacked by the enemy. He repulsed them handsomely, holding his original position at all and advanced positions at some points. He was unable to follow up his success for want of transportation. Sedgwicks infantry has landed, and transportation and forage are going up rapidly. In attempting to communicate with General Franklin you must be exceedingly cautious. The four newspaper reporters taken yesterday will be turned over to the provost-marshal-general, who will keep them in close custody until lurther orders. What was the strength of the ~enemys rear guard you saw yesterday and what became of it ~ I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- Gemieral. WILLIAMSBURG, Thursday, May 8, 18626 p. m. Brigadier-General HUMPUREYS, Chief Top. Engr, Army of the Potomac, Williamsburg, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I have to-day executed your instructions, directing me to state whether it was practicable to communicate fror~t General Sumners headquarters to the main left-hand road, where General Heintzelman and General Hooker passed a portion of last Monday night. I crossed from Whitakers house, then General Sumners headquarters, to the left-hand road; about one-third of the distance is open country, and tolerably level; the remaining two-thirds is rather densely wooded, surface more undulating; infantry and cavalry can now cross it without difficulty. The whole distance is l~ miles. Course from Whitakers by compass is southwest. This brought me about 300 yards from the edge of the woods. Capt. McKeever, assistant adjutant-general on General Heintzelmans staff, informs me that General Heintzelman bivouacked that night 20 to 30 yards from edge of woods. It is proper to add that on Monday night the communication across was undoubtedly more difficult than it is now, as we have since then had three clear days, but that it could have been effected at that time is the opinion of your very obedient servant, ~. H. PALMER, Major Topographical Engineers, Bvt. Lieut. Col., U. ~. Army. HDQRS. CAMP OF THE ADVANCE GUARD, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 8, 1862. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that my advance guard, con- sisting of the Sixth U. S. Cavalry, Maj. L. Williams commanding, wa Page 153 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON 15~ pushed on to-day as far as Kent Court-House, 29 miles from Richmond. We have taken a large number of prisoners, all of whom have been given passes to go back to Williamsburg, not wishing to be encumbered by taking them along. The advance will be made to Kent Court-House to-morrow morning~ from which point reconnoitering parties will be pushed in advance and. on our left. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier- General, Chief o! Gavairy, Corndg. Advance Guard. FORT MONROE, May 8, 186211 a. m. P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: An attack on Sewells Point will be made to-day. Commander Rodgers with three gunboats moved this morning up the James River toward Richmond. We shall advance directly on Norfolk. Cannon- ading up the James River can be distinctly heard at this moment, sup- posed to be our gunboats attacking the Yorktown and Jamestown, that went up two nights ago. Report says that all the tobacco, oil, and cot- ton are being removed from Norfolk. Things are moving now. EDWIN N. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, May 8, 18622 p. m. P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: The President is at this moment (2 oclock p. n~i.) at Fort Wool, wit- nessing our gunboatsthree of them, besides the Monitor and Stevens. shelling the rebel batteries on Sewells Point. At the same time heavy firing up the James River indicates that Rodgers and Morris are fighting the Jamestown and Yorktown up the James River. The boom of heavy cannonading strikes the ear every minute. The Sawyer gun in Fort Wool has silenced one battery on Sewells Point. The James rifle mounted on Fort Wool also does good work. It was a beautiful sight to witness the boats moving on to Sewells Point, and one after- another opening fire and blazing away every minute. The troops will be ready in an hour to move. The ships engaged are the Dacotah, the Savannah, the San Jacinto, the Monitor, and the Stevens. The Merri-- mac has not made her appearance, but is expected in the field every minute. A rebel tug came over this morning, and the deserters said. the Merrimac was at Norfolk when they left. EDWIN M. STANTON. WILLIAMSBURG, (Received May 9, 1862, 12.19 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I respectfully ask permission to reorganize the army corps. I aim not willing to be held responsible for the present arrangement, exper Page 154 154 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. ence having proved it to be very bad, and it having very nearly re- sulted in a most disastrous defeat. I wish either to return to the organization by division or else be authorized to relieve incompetent commanders of army corps. Had I been one-half hour later on the field on the 5th we would have been routed and would have lost everything. Notwithstanding my positive orders I was informed of nothing that had occurred, and I went to the field of battle myself upon unofficial information that my presence was needed to avoid defeat. I found there the utmost confusion and incompetency, the utmost discourage- ment on the part of the men. At least a thousand lives were really sacrificed by the organizatiou into corps. I have too much regard for the lives of my comrades and too deep an interest in the success of our cause to hesitate for a moment. I learn that you are equally in earnest, and I therefore again request full and complete authority to relieve from duty with this army commanders of corps or divisions who prove themselves incompetent. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, VA., May 9, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The President is unwilling to have the army corps organization broken up, but also unwilling that the commanding general shall be trammeled and embarrassed in actual skirmishing, collision with the ~enemy, and on the eve of an expected great battle. You, therefore, may temporarily suspend that organization in the army now under your immediate command, and adopt any you see fit until further order. He also writes you privately. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, VA., May 9, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: M~ DEAR SIR: I have just assisted the Secretary of War in framing the part of a dispatch to you relating to army corps, which dispatch of course will have reached you long before this will. I wish to say a few words to you privately on this subject. I ordered the army corps organization not only on the unanimous opinion of the twelve generals whom you had selected and assigned as generals of divisions, but also on the unanimous opinion of every military man I could get an opinion from, and every modern military book, yourself only excepted. Of course I did not on my own judgment pretend to understand the subject. I now think it indispensable for you to know how your struggle against it is received in quarters which we cannot entirely disregard. It is looked upon as merely an effort to pamper one or two pets and to persecute and degrade their supposed rivals. I have had no word from Sumner, Heintzelman, or Keyes. The com- manders of these corps are of course the three highest officers with you, but I am constantly told that you have no consultation or communic Page 155 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 155 tion with them; that you consult and communicate with nobody but %1~eneral Fitz John Porter and perhaps General Franklin. I do not say these complaints are true or just, but at all events it is proper you should know of their existence. Do the commanders of corps disobey your orders in anything? When you relieved General Hamilton of his command the other day you thereby lost the confidence of at least one of your best friends in the Senate. And here let me say, not as applicable to you person- ally, that Senators and Representatives speak of me in their places as they please without question, and that officers of the Army must cease addressing insulting letters to them for taking no greater liberty with them But to return: Are you strong enoughare you strong enough, even with my helpto set your foot upon the necks of Sumner, lleintzel- man, and Keyes all at once? This is a practical and very serious question for you. The success of your army and the cause of the country are the same, and of course I only desire the good of the cause. Yours, truly, A. LINCOLN. U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Hampton Roads, Va., iJilay 9, 1862. His Excellency the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: SIR: Agreeably to a communication* just received from the Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, 1 have the honor to report that the instructions I gave yesterday to the officers commanding the several vessels detailed to open fire upon Sewells Point were that the object of the move was to ascertain the practicability of landiPg a body of troops thereabouts, and to reduce the works if it could be done; that the wooden vessels should attack the principal work in enfilade, and that the Monitor, to be accompanied by the Stevens, should go up as far as the wrecks, and there operate in front.- On the Merrimacs appearance outside of the wrecks, the Monitor had orders to fall back into fair channel way, and only to engage her seriously in such a position that this ship, to- gether with the merchant vessels intended for the purpose, could run her (lown. If an opportanity presented itself the other ressels were not to hesitate to run her down, and the Baltimore, an unarmed steamer of light draught, high speed, and with a curvedbow, was keptinthedirec- tion of the Monitor expressly to throw herself across the Merrimac, either forward or aft of her plated house. But the Merrimac did not engage the Monitor, nor did she place herself where she could have been assailed by our ram vessels to any advantage, or where there was any prospect whatever of getting at her. My instructions were necessarily verbal, and in giving them I sup- posed that I was carrying out your wishes in substance, if not to the letter. The demonstration resulted in establishing the fact that the number of guns at the principal work on Sewdlls Point has been essentially reduced, and is not greater now than about seventeen, and that the number of men now stationed there is comparatively quite limited. * Not found Page 156 156 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXJIL The quarters connected with the work were set on fire by our shells, and no doubt seriously injured. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer, Comdg. North Atlantic Blockading Squadron. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, Va., May 9, 1862. General I~ORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington: General McClellan desires that the Chief of the Topographical Bureau should send him eight or ten officers junior to General Humphreys, to move with his army until it reaches Richmond. You will please order it to be done, if it can be. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, Va., May 9, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The Topographical Engineers will be sent, if they are to be had. Orders have been given to that effect. Your report as to the rebel steamers up the James River agrees with information direct from Nor- folk. We have official reports from Butler and Farragut of the capture of the Forts Jackson and Saint Philip and the occupation of New Or- leans by our forces. EDWIN M. STANTON. U. S. STEAMER GALENA, Off Hog Island, James River, May 9, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Gommanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: The Galena, Aroostook, and Port Royal engaged two batteries yesterday, each of about ten guns. We silenced the first at Rock Wharf, and finding the second one, at Mother Lines Bluff, took too many shell, the Galena laid abeam of the battery as close as the pilot could take her, so as to disconcert the aim of the rebels while the wooden gunboats ran by, which they did successfully, when the Galena also went up. The Yorktown and Jamestown, lying between these bat- teries, moved up the river as we approached them. I hear that the Galena was well handled. She is now aground. I hope to get off this evening, but it depends upon the tide, which is irreg- ular in amount. Very truly, yours, JOHN RODGERS. WILLIAMSBURG, May 9, 186212 m. WAR DEPARTMENT: Heard a few minutes ago that Galena was aground off Hog Island. I judge not badly, for reason that Rodgers does not throw off coal. Hav Page 157 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 157 sent him all the assistance he asks. My troops are in motion and in magnificent spirits. They have all the air and feelings of veterans. It will do your heart good to see them. Have effected junction with Frank- lin. Instructions have been given so that the Navy will receive prompt support whenever and wherever required. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, VA., May 9, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The last reports from Commander Rodgers were last evening, that he had passed Days Point and Hardens Bluff, after heavy cannonad- ing at both places. He started at 6 yesterday. The Merrimac and Monitor are at this moment approaching each other (iii oclock a. in.), and will probably engage, unless the Merrimac falls back to Sewells Point. No troops were landed there yesterday on account of her pres- l3nce. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WILLIAMSBURG, May 9, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Dispatch received. Nothing from gunboats since my last dispatch. Is there anything new from Sewells Point, Norfolk, or the Merrimac? GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, May 9, 1862. P. H. WATSON, As8istant Secretary of War: Merrimac came out about 3 oclock. Our squadronMinnesota, Van- derbilt, and Aragoworked slowly down. Merrimac advanced toward Monitor, then turned around and went behind Sewells Point, where our ships cannot reach her. She remains there to prevent landing of troops. Nothing else new. EDWIN M. STANTON. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Burnt Ordinary, Va., May 9, 1862. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Advance Guard: GENERAL: It is apparent from the orders which have been received from you to-day that you were not aware that the Eighth Illinois Cav- alry has been assigned to my corps. It appearing evident to me, how- ever, that you are in great need of the services of that regiment I sen Page 158 158 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. it to you, retaining only one company to act as messengers for the corps. As Major-General McClellan has ordered certain dispositions of the cav- aIry, I trust that you will, if possible, order the regiment to rejoin me without delay. I have no other cavalry with me. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. ORDERS FOR THE HDQRS. FOURTH ARMY CORPS, DAY. Burnt Ordinary, Va., May 9, 1862. Brigadier-General Smith will picket the front and right and left flanks as far to the rear as Mrs. Slaters house. Brigadier-General Couch will picket the right and left flanks from Mrs. Slaters house half way from his own headquarters to those of Brigadier-General Casey, being particular to throw pickets well out on the road leading toward the Chickahominy River. His pickets will connect with those from General Smiths command. Brigadier-General Casey will picket the right and left flanks from the pickets of General Couch and the rear as far back as the headquarters of General Keim last night. No countersign having been furnished from Headquarters Army of the Potomac, no person will be allowed to cross the lines on the front or flanks, but messengers coming up or going down to the rear will be admitted on being properly identified. By order of Brig. Gen. Keyes: C. C. SUYDAM, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Burnt Ordinary, Va., May 9, 186211.30 p. m. Col. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac: SIR: In reply to your communication in regard to the march of my command to-day, I have the honor to state, for the information of the major-general commanding the Army of the Potomac, that the order for the march was issued in accordance with instructions received. A copy of that order is inclosed. During the day, under verbal instruc- tions from the same source, transmitted to me by the Due de Chartres~ Generals Couch and Casey were directed to push forward their troops. A memorandum to that effect was sent to Major-General McClellan by my aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Jackson, who reported that he had shown it to the commanding general in person, who expressed his approval~ as I am informed by Lieutenant Jackson. I gave no order for General Conchs wagons to pass General Smiths wagons, and I am at a loss to know how the mistake occurred which has brought me under the im- putation of having disobeyed the orders of my commanding general. I will endeavor to ascertain if by any mistake General Couch received such an order, as I am entirely ignorant that any such order was given. As I deem that my official character is very gravely assailed, I beg that the commanding general will do me the favor to put me in posses Page 159 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 15~ sion of the information which induced him to believe that I was guilty of the crime of disobedience of orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. The following is the copy of the memorandum referred to, and con- stituted, with the first order for the march, the only directions in regaPl to the movements of the troops or wagons which were issued by me: Memorandum. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CoRPS, In the Field, May 9, 186211.20 a. m. Generals Couca and CASEY: You will press on the troops without regard to the wagon trains. Move your mer~ with rapidity, and let the wagon trains come up as fast as the state of the roads will permit. By order of Brigadier-General Keyes: C. C. SUYDAM, Captain and A8si8tant Adjutant- General [Inclosure.] GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FOURTH ARMY CORPS, No. 41. Williamsburg, Va., May 8, 1862. In accordance with orders received from the Headquarters Army of the Potomac, this corps will move to-morrow morning in the following order: 1. Smiths division at 5 a. m. 2. Couchs division at 6.30 a. m. 3. Caseys division at 7.30 a. m. Each division will carry at least three days rations, or more if possi- ble, and will drive all their beef cattle. The wagons of each division will follow the command to which they belong. Brigadier-General Smith, commanding Second Division, will send a staff officer to General Headquarters before 8 oclock to-day, to receive instructions concerning the road to be taken. The other divisions will follow Smith, unless otherwise directed after arriving at Williamsburg. The cavalry will follow immediately after the train of Smiths division. By order of Brigadier-General Keyes C. C. SUYDAM, Captain and Assistant Adjutant.General. FORT MONROE, VA., May 10, 1862. Flag.Officer GOLDSBOROUGII: MY DEAR SIR: I send you this copy of your report of yesterday for the purpose of saying to you in writing that you are quite right in supposing the movement made by you and therein reported was mad& in accordance with my wishes verbally expressed to you in advance.. I avail myself of the occasion to thank you for your courtesy and all your conduct, so far as known to me, during my brief visit here. Yours, very truly, A. LINCOLN Page 160 160 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. ~XIIL FORT MONROE, VA., May 10, 1862. P. H. WATSON, Esq., Assistant & cretary, Washington: The troops were landed last night, and are on the advance to Norfolk. Nothing for the last twenty-four hours from Rodgers expedition. Nothing of any interest from the army. Your telegram received. We shall wait the result on Norfolk. EDWIN M. STANTON. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT, Nineteen miles from Williamsburg, iJiliay 10, 186210 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: Telegram received. I left instructions to forward to you any news from Rodgers. Glad to hear Norfolk movement. We are getting Oil well. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, May 10, 186212 noon. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The forces under General Wool are advancing on Norfolk. Great volumes of smoke in the direction of Norfolk indicate that the rebels are burning the city or the navy-yard. Fr6mont thinks that Johnston [Johnson] with a large force is in front of him. The Merrimac is still at Sewells Point. Nothing later from Corinth. EDWIN M. STANTON. CAMP, NINETEEN MILES FROM WILLIAMSBURG, May 10, 1862. (Received 5 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: I have fully established my connection with the troops near West Point, and the dangerous movement has passed. The West Point Rail- way is not very much injured. Materials for repairs, such as rails, & c., cars, and engines, may now be sent to me. Should Norfolk be taken and the Merrimac destroyed, I can change my line to the James River and dispense with the railroad. I shall probably occupy New Kent in force to-morrow, and then make my first preparations for battle. As it is, my troops are in advance of their supplies. I must so arrange my depot that we can follow up suc- cess. When at New Kent I will be in position to make a thorough examination of the country so as to act understandingly. General Johnston cannot well be in front of Fr6mont, for two rea- sons: First, he has no business there; second, I know that I fought him on Monday, and that he is now on the Chickahominy. I have used his vacated headquarters from day to day. He is certainly in coin- mand here with all the troops he can gather Page 161 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 161 Two or three more of the cavalry regiments I left on the Potomac would be very acceptable. I am overworking what I have. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp at Ropers Meeting-House, May 10, 1862. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Ca~alry: GENERAL: The general commanding desires to be informed without delay what force, if any, the enemy have in the vicinity of New Kent, as far as your knowledge goes, and if there be a force how it is com- posedhow much artillery, cavalry, and infantry. He would be glad to know if you have learned anything of the enemys location. He desires, further, to be acquainted with the condition and character of the roads; what repairs, if any, may be necessary, and the correct distances, as well as their directions. Any topographical information that you may have acquired with respect to the section within the limits of your reconnaissance it would be desirable to have forwarded. The commanding general further directs that you dispatch messen- gers three times within each twenty-four hours to communicate to these headquarters the events that may occur and the information obtained from time to time. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp at Ropers Meeting-House, May 10, 1862. Generals SMITH, COUCH, CASEY, KEYES, HEINTZELMAN, HooKER, and KEARNY: The commanding general directs that you give the most stringent instructions to prevent depredations upon the persons and property of the inhabitants. No property is to be taken except in extreme cases, and then only by the order of the commander of the troops for the time being and by the officers appointed by him for that purpose. The weather being now warm, fence rails must not be used for fire- wood, but the necessary fuel must be provided from the woods. The good conduct of the troops thus far has had the happiest effect, and the general commanding indulges the hope that no effort will be spared on your part to maintain the good name which we have thus gained. The general deems it of the highest importance that these instruc- tions should be literally obeyed. The general also directs me to say that he has observed that the trains do not keep properly closed up, but occupy entirely too much space on the road, and he directs that the evil be promptly remedied. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant-General. 11 R RVOL XI, PT II Page 162 162 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Oa& r. XXJJL ELTHAM, May 10, 18624 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. McCLELLAN: GENERAL: I have started the reconnaissance in the direction of Gum- berland. The river is obstructed by sunken vessels between here and there, and I have sent a tug to try to get them out. It is not, how- ever, certain that she will succeed enough to get the gunboats through, although perhaps transports may get over it. Mounted pickets of the enemy are seen on the river banks above us. They do not trouble us. My wagons and cavalry are landing not as fast as 1 wish, but still doing perhaps as well as I have a right to expect. Two regiments of Colonel Taylors brigade and one four-gun battery I sent yesterday t& the assistance of General Stonemans train. He has kept them since, and I will be glad to have them back as soon as they can be spared. The landing here is good, but of course the higher up we can get the better. Let me know by the bearer whether I shall go out to meet you and whereI mean myself; not the command. Truly, yours, W. B. FRANKLIN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Dirnszon. FORT MONROE, May 10, 1862. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: The forces under General Wool are advancing upon Norfolk. The landing was without any accident. Great volumes of smoke in the direction of Norfolk indicate that the rebels are burning the city or the navy-yard. The Merrimac is still off Sewells Point. Rodgers has not been heard from. Nothing heard to-day from McClellan. The Presi- dent and I have just come from the place where the forces were landed, near Willoughby Point. Schenck and Fr6mont appear to be stampeded slightly. EDWIN M. STANTON. FORT MONROE, Sunday Morning, May 10, 1862. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: Twelve oclock at night. Norfolk is ours, and also Portsmouth and the navy-yard. General Wool, having completed the landing of his forces at Willoughby Point about 9 oclock this morning, commenced his march on Norfolk with 5,000 men. Secretary Chase accompanied the general. About 5 miles from the landing place a rebel battery was found on the op- posite side of the bridge over Tanners Creek, and after a few discharges upon two companies of infantry that were in the advance the rebels burned the bridge. This compelled our forces to march around 5 miles- farther. At 5 oclock in the afternoon our forces were within a short distance of Norfolk and were met by a delegation of citizens. The city was formally surrendered; our troops were marched in, and now have possession. General Viele is in command as military governor. Th Page 163 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 163 city and navy-yard were not burned. The fires which have been seen for some hours prove to be woods on fire. General Wool, with Secre- tary Chase, returned about 11 oclock to-night. General Huger with- drew his force without a battle. The Merrimac is still off Sewells Point. Commander Rodgers expedition was heard from this afternoon ascend- ing the James River. Reports from General McClellan are favorable. We shall return to Washington to-morrow. EDWIN M. STANTON. YORKTOWN, May 10, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just returned from above West Point. General McClellan encamped opposite there, upon main road to Richmond, this evening. Our advanced column was expected to reach New Kent to-night. Rebel pickets were about 5 miles above West Point. Three gunboats went up the Pamunkey to-day to remove rebel vessels sunk in the channel. Two rebel gunboats in process of construction were burned at West Point on the approach of our troops. We are pushing troops and sup- plies up the river from here as rapidly as possible. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQES. ARMY OF THE PoTo1~iAi, No. 144. Camp, Ropers Meeting-House, Va., May 10,1862. The general commanding learns with regret that notwithstanding the orders already issued on the subject the men of the command have com- mitted many depredations since leaving Yorktown. The general has reliable information that some of the officers connected with the com- mand not only do not try to prevent these outrages but are guilty of them themselves. The attention of division commanders is called to this subject, and the strictest measures will be taken to prevent all kinds of depredations. Any officer or man hereafter found guilty of stealing will be immediately placed in irons, tried by a military commission, and punished to the ex- tent of the law. Division commanders will be held responsible that this order is strictly 6beyed. The orders with reference to stragglers and rear guards have not been obeyed. Division and brigade commanders will be held responsible that these orders are carried out in future. When the head of a division approaches a house the provost-marshal will send a guard to remain at it until the head of the next division ar- rives. If the provost guard is not large enough more will be furnished, and of the best men in the ~ommand. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. FORT MONROE, May 11, 1862. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: The Merrimac was blown up by the rebels at two minutes before Page 164 164 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIU. oclock this morning. She was set fire to about 3 oclock, and the ex- plosion took place at the time stated. It is said to have been a grand sight by those who saw it. The Monitor, Stevens, and the gunboats have gone up toward Norfolk. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary o.t War. [Similar dispatch to McClellan.] CAMP, NINETEEN MILES FROM WILLIAMSBURG, May 119 a. m. lou. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I congratulate you from the bottom of my heart upon the destrnction of the Merrimac. I would now most earnestly urge that our gunboats and the iron-clad boats be sent as far as possible up the James River without delay. This will enable me to make our movements much more decisive. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, U. S. Army. NAVY DEPARTMENT, May Ii, 1862. Flag-Officer L. NI. GOLDSBOROUGH, Hampton Roads: I suggest preparations for an immediate attack upon Fort Caswell with all the force you can spare, including the two iron-dads, so soon as they can be spared, which should be in a couple of days. Answer by telegraph, and report daily by the Cherrystone boat. Push all the boats you can spare np James River, even to Richmond, unless the President directs to the contrary. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. SUNDAY, May 11, 18622 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: We are on board the steamer homeward bound, having just returned from Norfolk. The order to send the Monitor, Stevens, and one or two other boats up the James River has been given and will be executed immediately, as I am assured by Flag-Officer Goldsborough. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CAMP, NINETEEN MILES FROM WILLIAMSBURG, May 11, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Without waiting further for official reports which have not yet reached me, I wish to bear testimony to the splendid conduct of Hookers an Page 165 CEAl. XXIII.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 165 Kearny~5 divisions, under command of General lleintzelman,in the bat- tle of Williamsburg. Their bearing was worthy of veterans. Hookers division for hours gallantly withstood the attack of greatly superior num- bers, with very heavy loss. Kearnys arrived in time to restore the for- tunes of the day, and came most gallantly into action. I shall probably have occasion to call attention to other commands, and do not wish to do injustice to them by mentioning them now. if I had had the full information I now have in regard to the troops above named when 1 first telegraphed they would have been specially mentioned ~nd commended. I spoke only of what I knew at the time, and shall rejoice to do full justice to all engaged. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, May 11, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac, Va.: 1 congratulate you on your success. It is General Edward Johnson, not Joe Johnston, who is in front of Fr6mont. General McDowell still at Fredericksburg. Secretary of War expected back to-night. P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 121. Camp at Ropers Meeting-House, Va., May11, 1862. It having been reported to the commanding general that the Ninth Regiment New York Cavalry is in a state of disaffection, he deems it unjust to the brave soldiers who constitute this army that men thus displaying a spirit of cowardice in face of the enemy should remain longer with them. The commanding officer of the regiment will pre- pare lists of the men thus showing themselves unworthy to belong to this army and forward the same to these headquarters, to the end that these persons may be discharged, and that the army and the country may be made acquainted with the names of those who have basely held back their services in the time of their countrys need. These lists will be given to the army and the public. It is to be hoped that there are many in the regiment who are ani- mated with the desire to l)articipate in the battle expected soon to take place. Men thus honorably disposed will be sent by their colonel to join the Artillery Reserve, where their service can be more usefully employed at this moment than in any other way. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 122. Camp atRopers Meeting-House, Va., May11, 1862. I. The officers and soldiers of the Army of the PotoPn~c, when within any of the States in rebellion, will not be allowed to take or destroy th Page 166 166 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. property of the inhabitants therein, on the plea ot the owners being dis- loyal, 1r npon any other pretense. II. Soldiers will not be permitted to straggle from their proper com- mands, nor will they enter the premises of the inhabitants without per- mission from the proper authority. III. The provost-marshals of divisions will have the means of know- ing who are the disloyal inhabitants, and will give the necessary orders for taking possession of any property belonging to such, if it should be deemed necessary. In the absence of such orders all provost guards will give protection to the private property of the inhabitants, and treat them with courtesy and kindness. IV. Persons connected with this army detected in committing or hav- ing committed depredations by injuring property of persons, or in car- rying oft any article or articles from houses or estates (~vhether aban- doned or not) without proper authority, will be held in custody and brought to trial. V. All property belonging to such inhabitants found in the posses- sion of persons connected with this army will be turned over to the pro- vost-marshals of divisions to be restored to the owners. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 145. Camp at Ropers Church, Va., May 11, 1862. * * * * * * * IT. Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie, having reported to these headquar- ters, in compliance with instructions from the War Department, is as- signed to duty with Hookers division, Third Army Corps, and will report accordingly. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CAMP NEAR ROPERS CHURCH, May 12, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Weather good. Roads improving. White House and Cumberland in our possession. Nothing new from enemy. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Ropers Meeting-House, May 12, 18627 p. m. (Received May 13, 11.30 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, S,ecretary of War: I respectfully apply to be furnished with two or at least one addi- tional regiment to furnish the garrisons for Yorktown, Gloucester, an Page 167 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 167 Williamsburg. It is extremely embarrassing at the present time to break in on tlie existing brigade organizations, as I am compelled to do to supply these garrisons. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC Camp at Ropers Church, May 12, l8~52. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received May 13, 11.30 p. in.) Secretary of War: Commander Rodgers writes me to-day that he went with the gun- boats yesterday past Little Brandon. Everything quiet and no signs of troops crossing the river. He found two batteries of ten or twelve guns each on the south side of James Riverone opposite the mouth of the Warwick, the other about southwest from Mulberry Point. The upper battery on Hardens or Mother Lines Bluff has heavy rifled pieces. Between the batteries lay the Jamestown and Yorktown. Commander Rodgers offered battle, but the gunboats moved off. He silenced one battery, and finding it required too much ammunition to silence the other ran past it. Rodgers says the Galena cannot use her engines when aground, the valve-pipes and condenser becoming clogged with sand, & c. He says that the channel marks are all changed; that the Galena will almost eertainly run aground in passing up to City Point, and that while aground she is to a great degree paralyzed. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, May 12, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, Williamsburg: SIR: The Merrimac is blown up. Our vessels of war have gone up James River; among others the Monitor. Your flank will be protected on the James River. A small detach- ment will answer for Yorktown. I want all my troops. I intend going to Suffolk, leaving a few troops at Newport News and a sufficient force at Fort Monroe. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 123. Cramp at Ropers Mceting-ffouse, Va., May 12,1862. I. Hereafter no newspaper correspondent or other citizen not in the military service will be allowed to go to the front beyond General Head- quarters, or to accompany the advance guard or any of The advanced divisions on the march. II. All passes to newspaper correspondents to accompany the army will be signed by Brig. Gen. R. B. Marcy, chief of staff. No others will be recognized Page 168 168 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CI1A.1~. Xxiii. III. The number of stragglers from the various regiments of the army on the march to this point has been so great as seriously to diminish the effective strength of the army for the day. As it is of the first im- portance, in view of being prepared at any moment to meet the enemy, that every man capable of bearing arms should be with his company, all officers must use every endeavor to prevent straggling. Each bri- gade commander xviii place a guard in rear of his brigade, with strin- gent orders to bring up all stragglers. Division commanders will be held responsible that these orders are strictly carried into effect. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRs. ARiwv OF THE POTOMAC, No. 146. Camp at Ropers Church, May 12, 1862. * * * * * * * VII. Order of march for to-morrow: Franklins division will move at 4 a in., to encamp at Cumberland. Smiths division to move at 5 a. m. to Cumberland via New Kent Court-House, and to take up the brigade which has been detached to that place. On his arrival at Cumberland General Smith will report to General Franklin. F. J. Porters to start at 5 a. in., to follow the road taken by Frank- lin, and to encamp at Cumberland, if possible. The Artillery Reserve to march at 4 a. in., and follow Smith to Cum- berland. Sykes brigade to start at 5 a. in., and take the road followed by Hunt. On his arrival at Cumberland General Sykes will report to General F. J. Porter. Duanes battalion of Regular Engineers to follow Sykes. General headquarters to march at 6 a. m. by Atkinsons and Elliots. The Cavalry Reserve to march at 10 a. in., by the Barhamsville road and Jennings and Elliots, and to encamp at Cumberland. The road passes through Franklins present camp. Couchs division to march at 7 a. in. Caseys division to follow Couch. The wagons of the two divisiona are to follow Casey, and both divisions to encamp at New Kent Court- House. A brigade, to be taken from either division, will be detached by General Keyes as a rear guard. Kearnys division: Two brigades to march to the vicinity of the road which leads to Diascund Bridge, and which leaves the New Kent Court- House road about 8 miles in front of Barhamsville (Baskinwalkers store). The remaining brigade to encamp in the vicinity of Ropers Church (present camp of General Headquarters), watching the IDiascund road, and to await further orders. Hooker to await further orders at his present camp. Sumner to await further orders at Eltha,n. The Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Col. D. McM. Gregg, to remain at ~ew Kent Court-House for further orders. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, A& ~istant A djutant- Genera? Page 169 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 169 U. S. SHIP MINNESOTA, Port Monroe, May 13, 1862. Hon GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: From wliat I gather, Rodgers, when last heard from, on the 11th in- stant, was at a point about 25 miles this side of City Point. Thc~ Monitor and Stevens have probably joined him ere this. Some delay may be experienced at the obstructions placed by the enemy 10 miles this side of Richmond, but nothing more I apprehend, nor do I think the delay will be beyond half a day or so at most, although, of course, it is impossible for me to judge with any great precision upon th& subject. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH. U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Hampton Roads, Va., May 13, 1862. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy, Washington Gity: SIR: The reports in the papers about the navy-yard at Norfolk ar~ utterly and entirely false. To have destroyed it more effectually than has been done would indeed have been a difficult task. Essentially, it is in utter ruins. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer. FORT MONROE, May 13, 1862. (Received May 14, 12.47 p. in.) Hon E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have Suffolk, taken last evening by Major Dodge. All quiet~ Major-General McClellans troops are at Cumberland. JOHN E. WOOL, Major-General. CAMP NEAR ROPERS CHURCH, May 13, 18624.30 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Am about starting. Nothing new received daring the night. Enemy concentrating on my front, near Chickahominy. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Oumberland, May 13, 18628.30 p. in. (Recd May 14, 12.40.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We reached Cuinberland to-day. In consequence of the small num- her of roads and their narrowness our movements have been attende Page 170 170 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL with great difficulty. The same causes will render our farther prog- ress necessarily slow. We have had one or two skirmishes to-day, but without any especial results. The enemy is iu force in my front find my views respecting his intention to bring to bear against me all his available force remain unchanged. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., iJilay 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Five locomotives and eighty cars will start for West Point to-night, if you do not countermand the order. Nothing from Halleck. P.11. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. CU~BERLAND, May 14, 1862. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: The battle will be fought, probably, this side of Richmond. We think that you should order whole or major part of General McDowells, with Shields, up the York River as soon as possible, and order Wymans flotilla up the James River. We find General McClellan confident of success. He moves to White House to-morrow morning, and wishes to cut off enemys rear before reaching that point. We go to-morrow morning to Fort Monroe, and expect to inquire there about the opera- tions to guard James River. WM. H. SEWARD. CUNBERLAND, May 14, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received May 15, 1.33 p. in.) Secretary of War: I have to request that the rolling stock and material for repairs of West Point and Richmond Railway may be shipped to West Point at -once. We know of one bridge to rebuild between West Point and the Pamunkey River besides that at White House, which is some 700 feet 4ong. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. CUMBERLAND, May 14, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received May 15, 1.30 p. in.) Secretary of War: Am detained by the necessity of making new roads and repairing old ones. Move to-morrow morning to White House in force. Every Page 171 O~1AP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 171 thing well closed up, and will try to keep it so. News from front indi- cates enemy in large force. Raining to-day. No time will be lost in bringing about a decisive battle. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, l4th7 p.m. (Received Washington, D. C., May 16, 18621.40 p. in.) SECRETARY OF WAR: Please order a supply of Schenkl ammunition for the 20.pounder Parrott gun, say 10,000 rounds, to be sent to the White House for the use of this army. That furnished has not given satisfactory results. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOT.TETH CORPS, New Kent Court-House, May 14, 186210.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: SIR: The last of my corps arrived at their bivouac, near this point, at about 3 oclock this morning. The trains are nearly all in, and General Caseys ammunition has arrived. The delay of the march was unavoidable on account of the blocking of the roads by trains. On my arrival at the telegraph station last night I wrote a note in pencil to Colonel Colburn to say I would establish my headquarters near General Couch, but on arriving near his camp I learned that my column had been delayed, and so I returned, and dispatched a staff officer to alter my note so as to say that I would encamp here. My front is extensive, and I may change again to-day. If so, will notify you at once. I will endeavor to finish my report of the battle of Williamsburg to-day. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. P. S.Since writing the above Colonel Gregg, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, has reported to me that he has pickets 6 miles out on the Richmond road; that they are annoyed by the enemys shell; that the nearest infantry is 2 miles this side, thrown out from Couchs division, and that he needs a company to advance up to his pickets to support them. I have ordered General Couch to 1~urnish a company, in compli. auce therewith. E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. P. 5.I have directed General Casey to guard well out toward the Chickahominy River, and to place his outguards far out on the roads and to make an examination and to be certain that no road is left un- guarded. E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corp8 Page 172 172 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXUL U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Hampton Roads, May 14, 1862. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: Sn~: I have dates from Commander Rodgers of the 12th instant. The Monitor and Stevens had joined him where lie was lying off James Island, and he was to move up the river that evening until joined by the Monitor and Stevens. He was, as he says, unable to resist the five gunboats of the enemy above him, because the Galena would inevi- tably be grounded in passing the bar, and thus leave only the Aroos- took and Port Royal to assist them. Notwithstanding my orders to Lieutenant-Commander Jeffers to reduce all of the enemy~s works on the James River as he went along, spike their guns, and blow up their magazines, and thus leave the river entirely open, so that supplies of any sort might be forwarded without difficulty, he has not carried them out and I now am informed that two of their works on the river bank of James River and at Rock Wharf Landing, and the other at Hardens or Mother Lines Bluff, both between here and our vessel up the James River, must in effect be taken befQre the river can be navi- gated by our supply vessels. My present intention is to send the Susquehanna and Dacotah up the river for the purpose of taking those works, which, as Rodgers informs me, although strong in guns, are probably weak in men. I have put 200-pounder Parrotts on board the Susquehanna, and the iDacotah came here provided with one. The Seminole I shall retain at Norfolk, and perhaps the San Jacinto be- sides; but if I do have to send the San Jaciuto with the Susquehanna and Dacotah, then I shall have to move this ship up to Norfolk, and then leave nothing in these Roads for the time being. Before sending off this expedition I hope to hear frotu Rodgers again, to whom I have written by mail of to-day. If he succeeds in getting to Richmond there may be no necessity for it. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTo1~rAc, No. 147. Camp near Gumberland, May 14, 1862. * * * * * * * IV. Order of march for to-morrow: General Headquarters will move at a. in., and be established at the White House. Franklins division will move at 4 a in., followed by Porters division and the Infantry Reserve. The latter will be followed by the Artillery Reserve. All the above troops will encamp at the White House. Woodburys Engineer Brigade: The men and wagons will march to the White House, to which place the materials of the engineer train will be sent by water. Duanes battalion of Regular Engineers, and the pontoon train undov his charge, will proceed to the White House this afternoon. The Cavalry Reserve will move at 10 a. m. to the White House. Brigadier-General Huinphreys will designate an officer to a4 as a guide to this column. The Second Corps, Sumners (except the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, on detached service), will be concentrated at Cumberland Page 173 CHAP. XXIII.] 173 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. The two divisions will move at 5 a. m. The Third Corps, Porters division excepted, will be concentrated at Cumberlaud. Kearnys division will move at 5 a. m. Hookers division will move at 6 a. in., but the head of his column will not enter the New Kent and Cumberland road until the rear of Sumners Corps shall have cleared it. Grovers brigade will also march to Cumberland, if practicable, without too much fatiguing the men and animals. Until further orders one division of the Fourth Army Corps will be posted in the opening about 1 mile to the front and right of New Kent Court-House and one division will remain at New Kent Court-House. The Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Gregg, wiJl remain, tem- porarily, at New Kent Court-House, under the orders of General Keyes. Generals Sumner and Heintzelman will send staff officers ahead to ac- quaint themselves with the roads their troops are to follow, and will leave intelligent non-commissioned officers where other roads cross or meet, to prevent any portion of their troops or trains from taking the wrong direction. By command of Major General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant A djutant- General. WASHINGTON CITY, May 15, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Gumberland, Va.: Your long dispatch of yesterday * is just received. I will answer more frilly soon. Will ~ay now that all your dispatches to the Secre- tary of War have been promptly shown to me Have done and shall do all I could and can to sustain you. Hoped that the opening of James River and putting Wool and Burnside in communication, with an open road to Richmond, or to you, had effected something in that direction. I am still unwilling to take all our force off the dfrect line between Richmond and here. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., May 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Gumberland, Va.: On Tuesday last I directed MeCallum and General Meigs to send forward to West Point the rolling stock and material for repairing the West Point and Richmond Railway, in anticipation that it would soon be called for. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. * See McClellans report, Part I, p. 26 Page 174 174 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII CUMEERLAND, May 15, 1862. (Received May 17, 3 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Rain commenced again yesterday and continued last night and to- day. With utmost difficulty I have moved two divisions in advance this day and moved forward those in rear. We have to do much road- making as we go, but are continually advancing. Nothing new from the front to-day. I have heard nothing from James River gunboats. Very cool, wet, and dreary to-day. Secretaries Seward, Bates, and Welles left last night. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. CUMBERLAND, May 15, 1862. (Received May 17, 3 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Rain has continued all day, making the roads horrible. With great difficulty 1 have moved two divisions to White House and closed up the rear pretty well. On this plan headquarters move to White House to- morrow. Nothing of interest to-day. We are advancing as rapidly as is pos- sible, but it is slow work. I, however, have everything well in hand. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General: FORT MONROE, VA., May 16, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I am here in command of the two most important positions in the possession of the Federal Government. If any disaster should befall General McClellan I am wholly unable with the force I have to defend these two positions. The calls made upon me by General McClellan to take care of his sick, wounded, and prisoners of every description take from me a considerable number of men. I have sent to Norfolk about 8,000 men, and will send over another thousand, making in all about 9,000 rank and file. With this force I have ten pieces of light artillery. This force would be wholly inadequate to defend Norfolk in case Gen- eral McClellan should be defeated. At the same time Newport News and Fort Monroe would be exposed to capture by a victorious army, they having but 3,000 men effective to defend both places. I want ten regiments and 300 horses to put myself in a condition to resist the force that might be brought against me in case of General McClellans defeat. It is said he intends to intrench his army some 10 miles from the posi- tion occupied by the rebels 10 miles in front of Richmond. The horses I want are requisite for three light or field batteries. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General Page 175 CHAr. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175~ WAR DEPARTMENT, May 16, 18621.12 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Fort Monroe: If any person not in the military service should presume to give you any instructions or directions in respect to military operations you will give them no attention, unless they are specially authorized, in writing, by the President or by this Department. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WHITE HOUSE, May 16, 1862. (Received May 17, 2.45 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Our advanced columns occupied Baltimore Cross-Roads and Tun- stalls Station to-day. The rebel pickets withdrew before our troops. They burned the railroad bridge across the Pamankey at this place and other bridges in advance as far as we have examined. The rains during the past two days have rendered the roads so bad that the train of one division has been thirty-six hours in making 6 miles. I have been informed this evening that the official reports of certain commanders engaged in the battle at Williamsburg have by some meana unknown to me got into the hands of newspaper reporters, who will probably forward them for publication before I have submitted them to you. 1 shall take steps to ascertain how this has been done and pre- vent any such unmilitary and unjustifiable proceedings in future. In the mean time I beg to suggest that it might be well to prohibit their publication in this instance by a telegraphic order from the Department. My report will be transmitted as soon as I receive all the reports from the different commanders. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. INGALLS, May 16, 1862. (Received May 17, 4.20 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: A contraband just in reports that he heard an officer of Confederate Army say our gunboats had reached within 8 miles of Richmond. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, White Rouse, May 16, 186211 a. m. (Received May 17, 4.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have just arrived. Roads as bad as can be. The trains of twe divisions which left Cumberland yesterday a. m. are not yet half way updistance ~ miles. Rain has ceased, ~o that roads will, I hope, im- prove. Impossible to make other movements of troops to-day Page 176 176 TIlE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXIII. I have taken every precaution to secure from injury this house, where Washington passed the first portion of his married life. I neither occupy it myself nor permit others to occupy it, or the grounds in immediate vicinity. Nothing new from the front to-day. Enemy in some force at Saint Peters Church. We cannot get at each other now. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, No. 46. f Fort Monroe, Va., Allay 16, 1862. The organization of the forces now at Norfolk and vicinity will be brigaded until further orders as follows: Brig. Gen. E. L. Vieles brigade to consist of Second Regiment New York Volunteers, Tenth Regiment New York Volunteers, Sixteenth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. Brig. Gen. Max Webers brigade to consist of First Regiment Dela- ware Volunteers, Twentieth Regiment New York Volunteers, Fifty- eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. Brig. Gen. J. C. Robinsons brigade to consist of First Regiment Michigan Volunteers, Twentieth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, Ninety. ninth Regiment New York Volunteers. The artillery and cavalry will be assigned hereafter. The Sixteenth Regiment, with a section of Captain Folletts battery, under Lieutenant Whitney, Fourth Artillery, and one squadron of the Eleventh Regiment Pennsylvaiiia Cavalry, under a major, will take post at Suffqlk. They will march to-morrow. By command of Maj. Gen. John E. Wool: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON CITY, May 17, 1862. TVlaj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Opthalmia, contracted while absent from home, has disabled me from writing until to-day. We have had nothing of interest from any quarter for several days, but are expecting news from Corinth very soon. An order respecting your application to the President for re-enforce- ments will be transmitted to-morrow. The instruction you desired re- specting the publication of unauthorized official reports has been given. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WASHINGTON, D. C., May 17, 1862. Memorandum, in handwriting of President Lincoln, of his proposed addi- tions to instructions of above date to General McDowell and General Meigs indorsement thereon. (See also Part I, p. 28.) You will retain the separate command of the forces taken with you; but while co-operating with General McClellan you will obey his orders Page 177 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 177 sxcept that you afe to judge, and are not to allow your force to be dis- posed otherwise than so as to give the greatest protection to this capital which may be possible from that distance. [Indorsement.] To the SECRETARY OF WAR: The President having shown this to me, I suggested that it is dan- gerous to direct a subordinate not to obey the orders of his superior in any case, and that to give instructions to General McClellan to this same end and furnish General McDowell with a copy thereof would effect the object desired by the President. He desired me to say that the sketch of instructions to General McClellan herewith he thought made this addition unnecessary. Respectfully, M. C. M. WILLIAMSBURG, May 17, 1862. (Received May 17. 9.40 p. in.) 1~Ion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The gunboats Galena, Monitor, Aroostook, Kaugatuck, and Port Royal were repulsed from Fort Darling, 7 miles below Richmond, yesterday. A portion of them have returned to Jamestown Island, near this place, in James River. Lieutenant Morris, commanding the Port Royal, sent overland to me this morning for intelligence regarding the condition of the forts below the island, and also to assist in burying the dead which he brought down with him. Seventeen have been interred on the banks of the river and there are a number of wounded on board, including Morris. The 100-pounder gun of the Naugatuck exploded at the first fire. DAVID CAMPBELL, Colonel Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. By authority of General McClellan. WHITE HOUSE, May 17, 186210.45 p. m. (Received May 18, 7.35 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: After a careful consideration of the meager accounts I have just re- ceived of the gunboats operations on the James River I am inclined - to think that we ought not to be discouraged. They were caught in very adverse circumstances, and I think their repulse will prove to be due to the fact that they were subject to a close musketry fire they could not reply to. I would urge the necessity of perfect co-operation between all the Army and Kavy forces in Western [Eastern] Virginia. I have not one word of official information as to the objects to be at- tamed by any of them. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. 12 R RVOL XI, PT II Page 178 178 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, White House, May 17, 1862..10.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received May 18, 8 a. in.) Secretary of War: A combined naval and army expedition, under Captain Murray, U. S. Navy, with troops and artillery under Major Willard and Captain Ayres, of the Army, went some 25 miles up the Pamunkey to-day, and forced the rebels to destroy two steamers and some twenty schooners. The expedition was admirably managed, and all concerned deserve great credit. We have advanced considerably to-day. The roads are now improv- ing, and you may soon expect to hear of the whole army being on the Chickahominy. All goes well. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major.Generai. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., May 17, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: There have been forwarded from Baltimore to West Point five loco- motives, eighty cars, 3 miles in length of railroad iron, 30,000 feet, board measure, of timber, one dozen frogs, one dozen switch irons, 1,200 chairs, with full supply of rail spikes, the last of which, it is e will reach West Point on Monday. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. OFF HARDINS BLUFF, JAMES RIVER, May 17, 1862. 0-. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: The Secretary of the Navy directs me to inform you that the Port Royal has come down from vicinity of Richmond. When within 8 miles, just as the last turn in the river was made, found passage obstructed by two rows of sunken vessels, chains, and spiles, among them also James. town and Yorktown. Thursday morning a large battery on Wards Bluff 200 feet high, with two rows of guns, opened on vessels. Rifle pits along river filled with sharpshooters. Fight lasted four hours. Galena hit twenty-eight times and perforated eighteen times. Monitor struck three times; uninjured. Thirteen men killed and 11 wounded on board Galena. Lieutenant Morris, of Port Royal, injured in leg by rifle-ball. Two men on Naugatuck wounded. Galena and Monitor came down to City Point. Naugatuck came down with Port Royal. Her gun burst, injuring 1 man. WM. FAXON, Chief Clerk. NEWPORT NEWS, May 18, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON Secretary 0/War: We went yesterday to Jamestown. James River is cleared of lan Page 179 Cni~. XXIII.] 179 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. and naval forces of enemy to within 8 miles of Richmond. We met vessels coming down from brisk naval engagement of Thursday. It lasted four hours. Monitor could not reach batteries 200 feet high. River obstructed with vessels sunk across channel, including the James- town and Yorktown. The Galena was struck twenty eight times, pierced eighteen times. Thirteen killed, 11 wounded. Lieutei~ant Nor- ris, of the gunboat Port Royal, wounded, but not seriously. No other casualties. Lieutenant Jeffers and Commodore Smith report that a co- operating land force will be needed to carry these batteries. The Nau- gatucks big gun burst. Everybody says and everything indicates the retirement of the enemy from all country between Richmond and the ocean. Can you send a force to co-operate with Commodore Smith on this river? It would give us Richmond without delay. Commodore Goldsborough orders renewal of the naval fight, and will re-enforce as fast as possible. We return to-morrow. WILLIAM II. SEWARD. NEWPORT NEWS, May 18, 1862. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: The Secretary of the Navy directs me to inform you that we came up to Days Point yesterday morning to shell fortifications. Found carefully constructed earthworks, mounting twelve heavy guns, hastily abandoned on Wednesday. Guns splendid, and works partially de- stroyed. Secession flag left flying. Marines landed, tore it down; raised Stars and Stripes. A few miles above met Port Royal and Nau- gatuck. Reports severe engagement Thursday morning 8 miles from Richmond. Fleet turned last bend-; found river obstructed by two rows of sunken vessels, among which were Jamestown and Yorktown; also by spiles and chains, and directly facing river on bluff, 200 feet high, a battery, with two rows of heavy guns. River shore lined with rifle pits, concealed in woods. Fight lasted four hours. Galena struck twenty- eight times and perforated eighteen times by plunging shot; one hole about 2 feet long. One shot passed through one side and nearly through iron on the other. Had 13 men killed and 11 wounded. Fought at 600 to 1,000 yards. Monitor went ahead, but could not elevate guns enough, and fell back to the Galena. Was struck three times and uninjured. Lieutenant Morris, of Port Royal, wounded by Minie ball in leg. Two men wounded on Naugatuck. Her large gun burst. Vessels returned to City Point on account of batteries on high bluff protecting obstruc- tions. Vessels can go no farther up and cannot take battery. River clear to point of fight. Went up to Jamestown last night to look after mat- ters. Reach Washington to-morrow. WM. FAXON, Clerk, N. D. MCCLELLANS, May 18, 1862. (Received 8.30 p in.) Hon. E. N. STANTON: I regret to learn that you are ill. Weather now yery warm. My pickets within a mile of Bottoms Bridge, and as close to the railway bridge of the Chickahominy. Scouts have been within a quarter of Page 180 180 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. XXIII. mile of Bottoms Bridge. Enemy there in force. I am moving on sev- eral roads, and will soon be in condition to ascertain the strength of their line. The information we get still tends to the conclnsiou that they intend fighting in front of Richmond. I would be glad to learn something about McDowells position and the forces in front of him. It interests me as affecting my right flank. What are Banks and Fr6. mont and Wool doing? GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, May 18, 1862. (Received 8.40 p. in.) lion. WM. H. SEWARD: Dispatch received. My pickets ~re within a mile of Bottoms Bridge and scouts have been within a quarter of a mile. Am advancing on the other roads. Indications that enemy intend fighting at Richmond. Policy seems to be to concentrate everything there. They hold central position, and will seek to meet ns while divided. I think we are com- mitting a great military error in having so many independent columns. The great battle should first be fought by oar tro~ops in mass; then di- vide if necessary. I do not think gunboats can do mnch withont assist- ance of land forces. I am getting on well. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, May 18, 1862. (Received 12.35.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: As you may have already been informed, the Navy was repulsed within 8 miles of Richmond on Thursday, after four hours fighting. The Galena was hit twenty-eight times, perforated eighteen times; 13 men killed and 11 wounded. The gun of the Stevens bursted, killing 1 man. Lieutenant Morris injured in the leg. Monitor hit three times; uninjured. She and the Galena are at City Point. Port Royal and Stevens are at Hardens Bluff. All quiet here and at Norfolk. I am preparing for coming events. I hope you will send ten regiments over; if they should not be required to defend Norfolk they would be ready for the onward march. I thank you again and again for your kind and friendly messages. I will take care that you have no cause to regret your confidence or appreciation of myself. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON CITY, May 18, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL: It will be impossible at this time to send you more troops. Five gen- erals in the field are asking for troops, and there are none to give them. You will have to hold fast with the force you have. I had the pleasure of signing your new commission to-day. EDWIN M. STANTON, & cretary of War Page 181 CHAP. XXIII.] C0RRESPONDENCE~ ETC.UNION. 181 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE POTOMAC, May 18, 1862. General S. P. HEINTZELMAN, White House: The commanding general directs that you move one division of your corps to Saint Peters Church to-morrow, the other division to take post in the vicinity of New Kent Court-House, picketing toward Jones Bridge. A sufficient command will, however, be left by you at Cum- berland to assist in breaking up the depot in that place and to guard the public property there for the time being. When the stores are all removed the detachment will rejoin its proper command. Please acknowledge this dispatch. By order of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 125. Camp near White Rouse, Va., May 18, 1862. I. The attention of the general commanding has been called to the publication of letters from officers and others connected with this army containing information which must have been of much value to the enemy should it have reached him. To communicate precise intelligence of the strength, position, or move- ments of the army in private letters, not designed for publication, is itself highly improper, and liable to prove of serious disadvantage to our operations; but when such intelligence is allowed to pass into the public prints the proceeding deserves grave censure, if indeed the offense does not become one demanding the exaction of the enalty de- nounced by the law for giving information to the enemy. Henceforth the communication, for publication, of any intelligence likely to prove of advantage to the enemy is prohibited; and the utmost circumspection is enjoined upon correspondents in their private letters. II. The publication of official reports of military events, or the circu- lation of copies of the same, for private purposes, in advance of their having reached the War Department and of the authorization of their publication by the Secretary of War, is improper and unmilitary, and is strictly prohibited. Official reports are the property of the Government; they cannot be published or put in circulation without the consent of the proper au- thority. III. The forces commanded by Brig. Gens. F. J. Porter and W. B. Franklin are designated the Fifth and Sixth Provisional Army Corps. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. FORT MONROE, VA., May 19, 1862. (Received May 20, 10.20 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The desponding tone of General McClellan in calling for more troops induced me to ask for more troops. The calling for troops on his par Page 182 182 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. Xliii. creates a suspicion of weakness, and consequently may lead to defeat. It is therefore I called for more troops, to be ready to meet coming events foreshadowed by calls made on the Government. The Sixteenth [Ma~ssachusetts] Regiment, with a section of artillery and a squadron of dragoons, occupies Suffolk. I intend sending a greater force as soon as I can forward supplies. I will have cars running on the railroad in two or three days, and the telegraph line established iii the course of two days to Suffolk, and I am informed it will be established between Fort Monroe and Cherrystone Creek to-morrow. The principal part of my forces is at Norfolk and in advance of the naval station, and near the intrenchments facing toward Suffolk. The rebels tore up the rails for some distance from Suffolk leading to here and burned the bridge that crosses Blackwater River. It is reported that they destroyed all the bridges on the Roanoke Railroad. The peo. ple of Norfolk have shown as yet no disposition to acknowledge the Government of the United States; at the same time assert with confi- dence that General McClellan will be beaten, the rebels having more than 100,000 men in and around Richmond. I do not believe the latter statement, yet it may be true. JOHN E. WOOL, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Camp at Saint Peter8 Church, May 19, 1862. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Richardsons division is in camp at this place. Sedg- wicks division at the junction of the road leading past Dr. Mayos house and the direct road from New Kent Court-House to Bottoms Bridge, about 3 miles from this. I cautioned him particularly about watching the roads leading in upon our left. Very respectfully, E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding. TUNSTALLS STATION, May 19, 18623 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received May 20, 10.30 a. in.) Secretary of War: Has been raining again to-day, but the whole army has nevertheless advanced. Have been to Bottoms Bridge to-day. Enemy are there. Expect our reconnoitering parties to be at New Bridge to-day. The troops well together and in hand. Railway in good order between Pa. munkey and Chickahominy, except two small bridges, which were burned. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN. NEAR TUNSTALLS STATION, Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, May 20, 1862. Adjutant-General: The instructions of the Secretary of War to muster out the Ninth New York Cavalry were duly received. Deeming that it would prov Page 183 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 183 highly injurious to the public service to discharge here a regiment for the most part in a state of disaffection I have ordered the regiment to Albany, N. Y., there to await the arrival of an officer to be designated by you to muster it out, and I respectfully request that you will please detail an officer for the purpose. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-Generat GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 126. Camp near Tun8talls Station, Va., May 20, 1862. When forage is found in the vicinity of the line of march of this Army, brigade quartermasters, after leaving three months supply for the sub. sistence of the owners and their families, including slaves, at the rate of a bushel and a half per month for each person, are authorized to take the remainder for the use of the Government animals. An accurate account will be kept of all the forage thus taken and re- ceipts given to the owners or their agents for the same, which accounts will be paid on presentation to the chief quartermaster of this army, provided the owner takes the oath of allegiance to the United States; if the oath is not taken, the accounts will be left for future settlement by the Government authorities. No other persons except those herein mentioned will be permitted to take property of any description from the people of the country without special authority from these head- quarters. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, As8istant Adjutant.General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 153. Camp near Tunstalls Station, Pa., May 20, 1862. * * * * * * * - XIV. The Artillery Reserve is assigned to duty with the Fifth Pro- visional Army Corps. Colonel Hunt will report in person or by a staff officer to General Porter at 6 oclock to-morrow morning. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, A8sistant Adjutant-General Page 184 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XIIfl. Ab8tract from return of the Army of the Potomac, Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. 8. Army, commanding, for May 20, 1862. Command. General staff U. S. Engineers ~Duane) Engineer Brigade (Woodhury) Regular Cavalry Reserve (Cooke) -. Escort to headquarters (McIntyre) Sturges Rifles (Steel) Provost guard (A. Porter) Regular Artillery Reserve (Hunt) Siege train (Tyler) Second Army Corps (Sumners)5... Third Army Corps (Heintzelmsns)t Fourth Army Corps (Keyes) - - . . . . Fifth Provisional Army Corps (Fitz John Por. tLrsl Sixth Provisional Army Corps (Franklins)3. Yorktown and Gloucester (Van Alen) Advance guard (Stoneman) Williamsburg (Campbell) Total. * Richardsons and Sedgwicks divisions. Coachs and Caseys divisions. Slocums and W. F. Smiths divisions. Present for .~. ~ ~ duty. a ,~ 0 On bI~ ~c 5~ o ~ ~ e itO o ~ 0 46.. 46 57 4 ~ 7 241 281 60 1,243 1,298 1,336 1,697 78 1,783 1,837 1, 927 2,214 4 104 105 111 144 3 76 79 79 90 37 . 556 583 640 734 86 1,802 1,888 1,992 3, 187 100 57 1, 228 1, 285 1, 330 1, 377 792 16, 945 17, 664 18, -278 20, 892 48 767 17,438 18 199 19, 731 23, 331 34 864 18,059 18,869 19, 596 25,512 38 698 14, 960 15, 455 16, 120 19, 845 24 872 19, 212 20, 074 20, 894 24, 143 44 55 1,084 1,139 1,171 1,296 152 2, 949 3, 101 3, 166 3, 588 12 24 399 423 430 476 4, 599 98,071 102, 236 107, 088 128, 864 300 tilookers andKearnys divisions. ~ Moreils and Sykes divisions. WASHINGTON CITY, May 21, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your long dispatch of yesterday [to-day] just received.* You will have just such control of General MeD owell and his forces as YOU therein indicate. McDowell can reach you by land sooner than he could get aboard of boats, if the boats were ready at Fredericksburg, unless his march shall be resisted, in which case the force resisting him will certainly not be confronting you at Richmond. By land lie can reach you in five days after starting; whereas by water he would not reach you in two weeks, judging by past experience. Franklins single divis- ion did not reach you in ten days after I ordered it. A. LINCOLN, President United States. MCCLELLANS, May 21, 186212.10 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Notwithstanding rain of last night, everything has advanced except headquarters camp. Franklin is at Cold Harbor, 3 miles from New Bridge; Porter a few miles behind him. Our light troops have crossed at Bottoms Bridge; and reconnaissance now being pushed beyond to ascertain position of enemy. All goes well. Weather is again cloudy. I am starting for Bottoms Bridge and Cold Harbor, returning to this camp to night. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. 5See Part I, p. 28. 18 Page 185 CHAP. XXXIII 185 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. WASHINGTON, May 21, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: I have just been waited on by a large committee, who present a peti- tion signed by twenty-three Senators and. eighty-four Representatives, asking me to restore General Hamilton to his division. I wish to dG this, and yet I do not wish to be understood as rebuking you. Please answer at once. A. LINCOLN. MCCLELLANS; May 21, 1862. (Received 9 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have just returned from Bottoms Bridge; was a mile on other side. Reconnaissance on heels of enemy, who probably did not like the skirmish of yesterday. Bridge will be repaired by to-morrow morning and others constructed. All the corps have advanced to-day. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, May 21, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: All quiet, and nothing of importance to communicate, except at City Point. The chief engineer of the steamer Massachusetts, doctor, and signal officer went on shore, leaving the masters niate with 6 of the crew in the boat. About fifteen minutes after landing the boat was fired into by a party of rebels, killing the masters mate and 1 man and severely wounding 3 others, one of whom has since died, leaving but 1 man in the boat unharmed, who escaped with the boat. The chief engineer, doctor, signal officer, and 2 men were taken prisoners and sent to Pe- tersburg. The Navy is unfortunate. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. The operator at Fort Monroe thinks the general means Wachusett instead of Massachusetts. W. D., Op. COLD HARBOR, May 22, 186212.30 p. m. His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: Your dispatch just received. The discipline of the Army will not per- mit the restoration of General Hamilton to his division. Since the mat- ter is pressed as it is 1 feel obliged to state what I did not care to before, viz, that General H~imilton is not fit to command a division. The task before me is too serious to permit me to hesitate when called upon to express an opinion. The cause of his removal from this army was am- ple to justify me in the course pursued. You cannot do anything bet Page 186 186 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA [CHAP. XXIII. ter calculated to injure my army and diminish the probabilities of success in the approaching battle now imminent than to restore General ilarnil- ton to his division. I earnestly protest against any such action, and I trust that after this statement you will not think of sending General Hamilton back to this army. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE RAPPAHANNQCR, Opposite Fredericksburg, May 22, 1862. Major-General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: I have received the orders of the President to move with the army under my command and co-operate with yours in the reduction of Richmond, and also a copy of his instructions to you in relation to that co-operation. Major-General Shields will join me to-day. As soon as the necessary preparations for the march can be completed, which I think will be by the 24th instant, we shall set forth as the general directions ordered. There is in front of us to impede our advance the secession Army of the Rappahannock, so called, under the command of Joseph R. Ander- son, of the Tredegar Iron Works. His force is from 12,000 to 15,000 men, mostly South Carolina and Georgia troops. We shall engage this force on our first days march, as they are now within from 6 to 8 miles of us, posted on and to the right and left of the Fredericksburg and Richmond Railroad, and in a position of consider- able strength. It is my purpose to try and turn this position by throw- ing a force on their left flank and cut oft their opportunity of receiving any re-enforcements from the direction of Gordonsville, and at the same time endeavor to save the railroad bridges. If this can be done, another channel of supply can be had for the forces going against Richmond that cannot fail to give great relief to the quartermasters and commissary departments of your army, and thus facilitate your operations. We cannot rely on this at first, because they now occupy the line, and Jam told are prepared to destroy the bridges if they are forced to fall back. I beg to ask to what extent can I rely on co-operation from you in my present movements in the way of your cutting off the retreat of the enemy upon Richmond, where they would add 12,000 to the forces against you, and in saving the railroad bridge across the Pamunkey, and to what points on the Pamunkey can you extend your right to join me, and to what point can you cause supplies to be placed for my com- mand, and by what date can I count on finding them ready for me I I shall require subsistence for 38,000 men and forage for 11,000 animals. IRVIN McDOWELL, Major- General, Commanding. HEA]X~UARTER5 FOURTH Coups, Near Bottoms Bridge, Va., May 22, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMs, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: SIR: Brigadier-General Casey reports the death of Brigadier-Gen- eral Keim, late in command of the Second Brigade of his division Page 187 Ca& r. XXIII.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC~UNION. 187 This melancholy event leaves a vacancy which I trust will be filled im- mediately by the assignment of an energetic brigadier to that brigade. The division of Brigadier-General Casey shows a falling off in effect- ive strength since March 30 of 3 577. This computation gives credit for the regiment detached a few days ago and is sufficiently alarming. I remain, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier-General, Commanding Fourth Coryi8. FORT MONROE, VA., May 22, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & creta~y of War: Herewith I transmit the copy of a letter forwarded by me this day to Flag-Officer L. M. Goldsborough, as fo1lo~s: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of this date, in which you state that the Secretary of the Navy has ordered you to take all the navy ordnance stores from Fort Monroe and put them at Fort Norfolk. In reply I would remark that Fort Norfolk was surrendered to the troops under my command on the 19th instant by the rebels at Norfolk. I cannot, therefore, permit the Navy to take possession of it without an order from the President of the United States or the Sec- retary of War. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. FORT MON1~oE, VA., Ma~/ 23, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: 1 have the honor to forward the copy of my letter of this date to Flag-Officer L. M. Goldsborough, as follows: From the information I have received I cannot permit the Navy to take possession of any of the works, including the navy-yard or depot in the vicinity of Norfolk, all having been surrendered to me and taken possession by the troops under my com- mand, without authoiity of the President of the United States or the Secretary of War. JOHN E. WOOL, Major-General. P. S.Please answer. JOHN E. WOOL. FORT MONROE, May 23, 1862. (Received 8.15 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The telegraph wires being down between this and the Headquarters of the Army of the Potomac, it may not be improper to send you the following dispatch from General McClellan: [From Headquarters Army Potomac, Cold Harbor, 23d.] To Maj. Gen. JonN E. WOOL, Commanding Department of Virginia, Fort Monroe: Dispatch received. Much obliged for the information, which corroborates much tha Page 188 188 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. have heard from other sources. I would be glad to have you communicate the same to Washington. I have crossed the Chickahominy at Bottoms Bridge. Am making four bridges there, and constructing a rough t~te-de-pont. Shall do the same at the other bridges before advancing in force to the attack. My headquarters are now about 3 miles from New Bridge. I expect a desperate battle against superior force, but am so placed that I have no choice but to give it, and trust to my own resources to overcome the difficulties. Will your position permit you to assist me by garrison- ing Yorktown, Williamsburg, and White House? It would be a great obligation. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. JOHN E. WOOL, Major-GeneraL HEADQUARTERS THREE MILES FROM NEW BRIDGE, Cold Harbor, May 23, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We are hard at work at Bottoms Bridge, building four bridges and covering the d6bouch6. Are now reconnoitering New and Meadow Bridges. Have my communications well covered and everything well in hand. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 23, 186211.45 p. m. General E. D. KEYES: The general commanding directs me to say to you that it is probable the part of the army here will cross the Chickahominy to-molTow or the day following, and he regards it as a matter of importance that you should push forward your advance to-morrow to the Seven Pines, spoken of in my dispatch of this evening. The general is much surprised that a deserter from the rebel army, who gives his name as James A. Beale, and states that he gave himself up to your pickets on the 17th instant, has not been sent to these head. quarters until to-clay. This man communicates important information, which should have been made known before. You will please take steps to have all per- sons that come within your lines from the enemy in future sent at once to these headquarters, after obtaining from them such information as relates to the movements of the enemy immediately in your front, which should not consume more than thirty minutes timc after he reaches your headquarters. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 127. t9amp near Cold Harbor, Va., May 23, 1862. Each brigade commander will detail daily two companies, under a field officer, to march in rear of the brigade train as a guard. The field officer will be responsible that the train keeps closed. If trains meet on the roads, those advancing toward the enemy will pass first, and those going to the rear will halt, if there is not room t Page 189 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 189 pass while in motion. Trains which do not leave their camps at the hours designated in orders from headquarters will give way for others that come in contact with them upon the line of march. A surgeon or assistant surgeon will march with the rear guard of each brigade, whose duty it will be to examine every man who leaves the rauks and remains behind. If he is unable to march he will be placed in an ambulance; otherwise the rear guard will take him pris- oner and force him to go forward. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, A88istant Adjutant-General. MCCLELLANS, VA., May 24, 1862. General LouENzo THOMAS, Adjutant-General: I respectfully request that if possible an infantry regiment be sent to the White House, on the Pamunkey, our principal depot, to remain as a guard at that place. I cannot well spare a regiment from the active army now before Richmond for this duty, and have thought that one might perhaps be furnished from the reserve regiments of New York or Pennsylvania. Please inform me whether request ~an be complied with. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MAY 24, 1862. Major-General WooL, Fort Monroe: It is very desirable that you would send a regiment to garrison White House, on the Pamunkey, for General McClellan, if it can be done. The President is anxious you should do it, if possible, as we can send him nothing from here. Please answer. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, May 24, 1862. (Received 10.25 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: If Major-General McClellan cannot sustain himself with the forces he has with him and his large train of artillery he will not be able to do it with a regiment from my command. Norfolk ought to be main- tained. If McClellan should be driven back, he has West Point and Yorktown to fall back upon, and at least a part of the Navy to sustaiu him. I do not apprehend such a result. Rumors are rife that ~the rebel army is leaving Richmond, and his advance is within 5 miles of Richmond. I am preparing to ship forward my troop8 to Suffolk and beyond, depending on circumstances. Most of my troops ~re in advance of Norfolk. If General McClellau should be driven back, I shall stan Page 190 190 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Ca& p. X.XIIL in greater need of troops to keep Norfolk than he will to sustain him- self at West Point an(l Yorktown, with gunboats to support him. If I had as many troops as the general, I would not ask for more. I would march and take Richmond, which I have no doubt General McClellan will do. The forces of the rebels are by no means equal to his. De- serters and contrabands from Richmond say the rebel army is leaving Richmond. They are, at least most of them, pressed into the army against their will, and not to be relied on in time of need. I cannot spare General McClellan a regiment. He does not want it. JOHN E. WOOL, Major General. Kivy DEPARTMENT, Hon. E. M. STANTON, May 24, 1862. Secretary of War: SIR: The rebels having left the navy-yard at Gosport, this Depart- ment, with a view of securing and preserving the public property per- taining to the Navy, which is exposed and deteriorating, ordered Com- mander John W. Livingston to repair thither and take charge of the same. I have also directed a carpenter, machinist, and others to report to him for duty. Laborers have also been ordered to service under his supervision. As usual, a marine force was detailed for the ordinary police and military duty at the yard, but I am informed by a dispatch from Flag- Officer Goldsborough that General Wool refuses to allow the Navy to take possession of the navy-yard without orders from the President or. Secretary of War. I would therefore respectfully request that you give the necessary order to General Wool to deliver to Flag-Officer Goldsborough posses- sion of the yard and naval property. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES [Secretary of the Navy~ MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 24, 1862. The PRESIDENT: Telegram of 4 p. m. received.# I will make my calculations accord- ingly. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 156. Camp near Cold Harbor, May 24, 1862. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. D. E. Sickles having reported to the commanding gen- eral, in pursuance of instructions from the War Department, will report to Brig. Gen. Joseph Hooker for the command of the Second Brigade of his division, Third Corps. V. Brig. Gen. J. J. Abercrombie is relieved from the command of the See Part I, p. 30 Page 191 Cnip. XXflI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 191 Second Brigade of Hookers division, Third Corps, and will report to Brig. Gen. D. N. Couch, commanding division, Fourth Corps, for the temporary command of Grahams brigade. VI. Brig. Gen. H. W. Wessells, when relieved by Brigadier-General Abercrombie, will report to Brig. Gen. Silas Casey for the command of the brigade of his division lately commanded by Brig. Gen. William H. Keim. * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assi8tant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Gold Harbor, May 25, 186210.30 p. m. General P. ST. G. COOKE, Commanding Cavalry: GENERAL: It has been reported to the commanding general this evening that a Dr. Pollock, living at or near Hanover Court-House, was heard to say that a force of 17,000 men would be at Hanover Court. House to-morrowrebel troops. The general desires you to send out one of your regiments along the road leading from your present posi. tion crossing the Totopotomoy and Crumps Creeks, in the direction of Hanover Court-House, and direct the officers in command to examine carefully all the roads leading into the road he travels; to examine all white and colored persons he can find, and endeavor to gain information regarding the movements of the enemy. Please directi him to push forward his reconnaissance, feeling his way carefully, and keeping out scouts and flankers when he gets into a locality where he can be surprised, ~and go as far toward Hanover Court- House as he can with safety. Colonels Warren and Tyler, with Rushs Lancers, are now at the Old Church, and have to-day thrown forward reconnoitering parties toward the Court House. They are on the right of the road that your command will march, and your officers should be informed that they will be likely to meet with some of these troops. Rushs Lancers can readily be distinguished. Should your party meet with any persons who can give important information they will be sent back at once to these headquarters. Your men should go light, well provided with cartridges, starting early in the morning, and they will probably be able to return the same night. The facts regarding the report alluded to should be thoroughly inves- tigated before the party returns. Please direct the officer in command to gain all the information in his power about the movements of rebel troops along the Virginia Cen- tral Railroad during the past week. Very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. GENERAL HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ORDERS, Camp near Cold Harbor, Va., May 25, 1862. I. Upon advancing beyond the Chickahominy the troops will go pre- - pared for battle at a moments notice, and will be entirely unencumbered Page 192 192 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. XXIII. With the exception of ambulances, all vehicles will be left on the eastern side of the Chickahominy and carefully parked. The men will leave their knapsacks packed with the wagons, and will carry three days rations in their haversacks. The arms will be put in perfect order be. fore the troops march, and careful inspection made of them, as well as of the cartridge boxes, which in all cases will contain at least 40 rounds. Twenty additional rounds will be carried by the men in their pockets. Commanders of batteries will see that their limber and caisson boxes are filled to their utmost capacity. Commanders of army corps will devote theii~ personal attention to the fulfillment of these orders, and will personally see that the proper ar- rangements are made for parking and properly guarding the trains and surplus baggage, taking all the steps necessary to insure their being brought promptly to the front when needed. They will also take steps to prevent the ambulances from interfering with the movement of any troops. These vehicles must follow in rear of all the troops moving by the same road. Sufficient guards and staff officers will be detailed to carry out these orders. The ammunition wagons will be held in readiness to march to their respective brigades and batteries at a moments warning, but will not cross the Chickahominy until they are sent for. All quartermasters and ordnance officers are to remain with their trains. II. In the approaching battle, the general commanding trusts that the troops will preserve the discipline which he has been so anxious to enforce and which they have so generally observed. He calls upon all officers and soldiers to obey promptly and intelligently all orders they may receive. Let them bear in mind that the Army of the Potomac has never yet been checked; let them preserv7e in battle perfect coolness and confi- dence, the sure forerunners of success. They must keep well together; throw away no shots, but aim carefully and low, and above all things rely upon the bayonet. Commanders of regiments are reminded of the great responsibility that rests upon them; upon their coolness, judgment, and discretion the destinies of their regi- ments and the success of the day will depend. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 20, 1862. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: I have lost 3,000 men in the last ten days by sickness and casualties, in addition to the guards I am obliged to leave behind me. In view of the fact that I have no childs play before me, and that General Wool has no further active operations in contemplation, I would request that he may be instructed to furnish at once one regiment of infantry to garrison Yorktown and Gloucester; five companies of infantry and four of cavalry for Williamsburg; one regiment and five companies of in- fantry to garrison White House and the railroad. All of these points up to White House lie in Wools department. If, in addition to this, more infantry could be spared from the Department of Virginia to cover my right, it will prevent my breaking up brigades and divisions, and give me so many more reliable men in the battle. I would ask a speed Page 193 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 193 reply to this that I may arrange accordingly. It will be dangerous to leave troops idle in such an emergency as this. All goes quiet. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. 0., May 27, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: General Wool has been requested to afford you the force which you desired for garrison purposes on Saturday and in your telegram to the the President of yesterday. He feels himself unable to do so with safety to the important positions requiring to be held in his department. In order therefore to supply your wants two regiments of infantry and one of artillery, now on their way from New York, will be forwarded to Yorktown from Baltimore to be followed by other forces if you should need them. Have you arms and equipments for any unequipped troops? EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 27, 1862. (Received 12 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: I am glad to learn that additional re-enforcements are on their way to Yorktown. They will assist me greatly in my operations. We have some 6,000 unserviceable ~irms at the White House and a supply of ammunition, but no spare equipments. I advise that, if possible, the troops ordered here come armed and equipped. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Kear New Bridge, Tffay 27, 18622.30 p. m. (Received 4.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Very severe storm last night and this morning has converted every- thing into mud again and raised Chickahominy. Richmond papers urge Johnston to attack, now he has us away from gunboats. I think he is too able for that. I communicated with gunboats yesterday by a small party. Am not yet ready to co-operate with them. Every day is making our result more sure and I am wasting no time. Rather heavy firing in direction of Porter, from whom I expect good news in a few hours. What about General Banks ~ Am obliged for the prom. ised re-enforcements. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. 13 R RYOL XI, PT II Page 194 194 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XX~. MCCLELLANS, May 27, 186211.20 p. m. (Received May 2812.20 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Stoneman has captured an engine and six cars on Central Railroad. Sent them to communicate with Porter. The railway communications of Richinond are not as safe as they used to be. Nothing new from Porter. All is progressing very well. Please prevent the newspapers from publishing as much as they do now. They give the enemy too much information. Notwithstanding the trouble, I would be glad to have them required to submit all letters as well as telegraphs to these headquarters. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MAY 27, 18626.30 p. m. Major.General MCCLELLALN: General Banks made good his retreat across the river at Williams. port, saving nearly all his trains and with small loss to his command. Reports indicate that Jackson has fallen back rapidly. Shields and Fr6mont are after him. It is hoped that he may yet he caught. The Manassas road from Front Royal to Thoroughfare Gap was destroyed. A strong force, under General Saxton, holds Harpers Ferry. McDowells force has advanced toward Hanover Junction, 18 miles below Fredericks. burg, but found no force in front of them. The position of Anderson is not known, nor that of Jackson. We shall, I hope, be able to send you strong re-enforcements in two or three days, if you need them, as fast as they come in from the States and transportation can be had. The Vanderbilt has been ordered around to Annapolis to receive them. The attack upon Banks was a bold and sadden push by Jackson, that surprised the troops at Front Royal. The affair has served to quicken the spirit in the States, and will bring in fresh troops with rapidity. It may save some time if you find that you have arms and equip- ments to forward them, to be armed on reaching Yorktown. I have assumed that to be the proper place to send them. But if you would rather have them at some other place, please mention it. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS, May 27, 18628.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I find some of the newspapers freqnently publish letters from their correspondents with this army, giving important information concern- ing our movements, positions of trool)s, & c., in positive violation of your orders. As it is impossible for me to ascertain with certainty who these anonymous writers are, I beg to suggest that another order be l)nblished holding the editors responsible for its infraction. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Commanding Page 195 CHAP. Xxiii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 27, 186210.30 p. m. (Received May 284.30 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: Dispatches of 6.30 received. Glad to liear that affairs in the Shenan- doah are not so bad as they first seemed. If I can be informed of the number of each regiment destined for me and when it sails I will send instructions to Yorktown as to its final destination. I shall be glad to have whatever you can give me, par- ticularly of disciplined troops. I have no spare arms. No further dis- patches from Porter. I will telegraph the moment I hear again. Enemy have evidently heard the news and are stampededare beating the long roll in front of us. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Go mmanding. WASHINGTON, May 28, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: What of F. J. Porters expedition ~ Please answer. A. LINCOLN. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 28, 1862. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: Your dispatch to General 1~IcClellan this moment received and dis- patched by special messenger to him. In his absence, directing opera- tions in front, I have the honor to state for your information that the troops under General F. J. Porter marched more than 20 miles yester- day through mud and rain, fought six hours, and were at the close of the action encumbered with some 600 killed and wounded, including those of the enemy, to be buried and cared for, with 500 or 600 prisoners to be guarded, which prevented General Porter from pressing forward last night to cut the Fredericksburg and Richmond. Railroad. This will be done to-morrow. The prisoners that were taken yesterday, and are here now, say that they were ordered to re-enforce Jackson via Hanover Junction, and were ordered back to Richmond. It is there- fore presumed that this is the same force referral to by General King. Very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Stafl~. P. S.The prisoners already taken number at least 700, I am credibly informed. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 28, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: A detachment from General F. J. Porters command, nnder Major Williams, Sixth Cavalry, destroyed the South Anna railroad bridg Page 196 196 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. about 9 a. m. to-day. A large quantity of Confederate public property was also destroyed ~it Ashland this morning. iR. B. MARCY, Chief if Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, New Bridge, May 28, 1862. IHon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General McClellan is now at Hanover Court-House, where he may remain overnight. The results of the battle of yesterday, as far as ascertained, are as follows, viz: Our loss 300 killed and woundednone missing; enemys loss at least 500 killed and wounded. Our troops buried 100 of their dead. To-day about 50.0 prisoners already in and continuing to come. There were two battlesthe first near the Court- Honse in which the rebels were driven from their positions, and re- treated some distance, when they were re-enforced and came back, and after a sharp contest they were again badly whipped and partially routed. Our cavalry and light artillery pursued and captured the pris- oners. The victory was decisive, and the prisoners say will have a very demoralizing effect upon their army. These troops came from Gordons- ville, and are from North Carolina and Georgia. Many of those from the former State say that they are tired of the war. Very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Stair. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 28, 1862. (Received 28th6.30 p. in.) General LORENZO THOMAS: I urgently request that, if possible, 250 recruits be sent to this army for the light batteries, some of which are to a considerable extent crippled for the want of men to serve them. To meet the present exigency I have been obliged to transfer volunteers to the batteries temporarily, bnt this arrangemer~ t is not a satisfactory one, and I trust that the recruits asked for can be supplied. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, hay 28, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I learn that there are 5,000 serviceable muskets at Fort Monroe, which will be sent at once to Yorktown. The Colonel of Ordnance has been requested by telegraph to furnish accouterments for these. There are also at least 5,000 muskets at White House, which have been turned in in exchange for better arms, and about 3,000 at Yorktown. These arms are at present more or less unserviceable, but instructions have been given for their immediate repair, and they will doubtless be ready for issue again in a few days. There are, however, no accouterments for the 8,000 muskets at Yorktown and White House, and I advise tha Page 197 CHAP. XXIII.] 197 CORRESPONDENCE, LTC.UNION. the Colonel of Ordnance be directed to furnish them with as little delay as practicable. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Ma~?/ 28, 18627.30 a. m. General PORTER: After I received your message last evening, in reply to my inquiries per Lieutenant Farqnhar, I pushed on 3 miles, over a very marshy road and through thick woods to the railroad, 12 miles from Richmond. I found the railroad which I had torn up the day before repaired, and while we were destroying it a train of four cars came down, which we caught. I sent the engine and tender np to try and communicate with you, but the party got among the rebels and returned. Night coming on, I encamped on the road and sent a piece and squadron on 3 miles and until they came upon a large camp on the turnpike leading from Hanover Court-House to Richmond. I have this morning learned that the force consists of Branchs division of North Carolina troops, which has since been added to by two regiments of Georgia and one of Yir- ginia troops from the army you defeated yesterday. The train we captured had upon it baggage and equipments from the Second North Carolina Regiment. Under these circumstances I thought and still think best to await further instructions from headquarters. The road from the railroad to where the rebels are encamped in front of ns, 3 miles, is through dense woods and over marshy ground, and altogether impracticable for the operation of such a force as I have with meartillery and cavalry, sup. ported by about 1,100 infantry. Please inform me of what you have done, and your future move- ments, and oblige, very respectfully, yours, & c., GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Advance Guard. MAY 28, 18621.15 a. m. General SUMNER: Direct Sedgwick to move with his division at daylight and encamp near Cold Harbor, and await further orders. This is merely a measure of precaution, and his division will probably return to your camp. In the mean time you will hold the important position which you. now occupy, keeping a sharp lookout upon all the movements of the enemy. By command of General McClellan: EDW. MCK. HUDSON, Aide-de-Gan~p. HEADQUARTERS CASEYS DIVISION, At Seven Pines, May 28, 1862. CAPTAIN: ln accordance with the direction of the general command- ing the Fourth Corps dArmJe, I shall proceed to give a few reasons for what, in my opinion, is the cause of the great 1& ss of men in my division since its organization in Washington Page 198 198 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. I had been engaged since September last in receiving the regiments on their arrival in Washington, and initiating them in their duties. Something like 120,000 had thus received my attention. The division which had been organized as my own was constantly being drawn upon and the best troops generally taken out. When directed to fill up my division for the purpose of taking the field I was obliged to take eight new regiments, which had arrived in Washington only a few days pre- vious, and several of them had not been armed. I thus had no oppor- tunity of getting rid of the incompetent officers who are always fonud in new regiments. I had but one general of brigade, and he inexperienced, and not one full brigade staff. I had made repeated application to have a complete organization, so necessary to the proper performance of duty. I will here mention that I was the only officer of the llegnlar Army who was on duty in the division, with the exception of Colonel Bailey, who was assigned to me as chief of artillery only two days previous to march- ing. I was not able, although I had applied several times, to procure the assignment of one experienced officer to assist me as staff officer. The division was ordered to move a few days after the assignment of the regiments, but the movement was so badly timed that it did not arrive in Alexandria until late at night, and soon after it commenced moving. Not being permitted to take any transportation from Alexandria down the river, on encamping about 2 miles from Newport News I found my- self without any means to transport supplies for the men; that duty for several days was performed by the men. After waiting abont two weeks I managed by great efforts to obtain an insufficient supply of transportation, the animals having been evidently culled over several times. In advancing to Williamsburg the roads were in such a bad condi- tion that I found it exceedingly difficult to keep the troops from starva- tion. From the orders which I received most of my division was sep- arated froni their knapsacks or shelter tents for several days. The exposure to the miasma of the Peninsula was a great source of sickness. The Ninety-third New York Volunteers, about 700 or 800 strong, was detached from my command about ten days since. This, of course, should be deducted from the difference between the force at present in the division and that in March. In short, l~ attribute one-half of the loss to the following causes: 1st. The imperfect brigade organization. 2d. The fact that eight of the regiments were almost entirely new at the time of taking the field. 3d. The incompetence and inefficiency of some of the medical, field, and company officers, and insufficiency of medical supplies. 4th. Mismanagement in logistics. I have made every endeavor to remedy the above mentioned defects. The other half of the loss I attribute to sickness from unavoidable causes. I remaimm, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Brigadier- General Volunteers, Commanding Division. GENERAL ORDERS, linQus. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 131. Gamp near New Bridge, Ya., May 28, 1862. Second Lient. George A. Custer, Fifth Regiment of Cavalry, is a Page 199 CHAr. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 199 pointed acting aide-de-camp to the commanding general, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, No. 52. Fort Monrjje, TTa., May 28, 1862. As the Navy are entitled to all guns and property recently taken in the several batteries in the city and vicinity of Norfolk, no officer of the Army will interfere with any disposition of the same that may be directed by Flag-Officer L. M. Golds borough, or any authorized agent of the Navy Department, except the intrenchments and guns south of the navy-yard and Gosport. At posts where there are troops stationed the officers of the Army will render such aid as may be in their power in removing the guns and property. By command of Major-General Wool: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General. WASIIIN~TON, May 29, 186210 a. m. General B. B. MARCY, McClellans Headquarters: Yours just received. I think it cannot be certainly known whether the force which fought General Porter is the same which recently con- fronted McDowell. Another item of evidence bearing on it is that General Branch commanded against Porter, while it was General Anderson who was in front of McDowell. He and McDowell were in correspondence about prisoners. A. LINCOLN. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 29, 1862. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: In answer to your dispatch of this morning I have the honor to state that several rebel officers, taken prisoners on the 27th, say they confi- dently expected to have been re-enforced on that day by Andersons command. General Porter reports that South Anna railroad bridge was fired this morning, and a large amount of Confederate property destroyed at Ashland. General -Porters command is now on its march back to this place, having executed his instructions. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., May 29, 186210.30 a. m. Major-Gener~l MCCLELLAN: I think we shall be able within three days to tell you certainly whether any considerable force of the enemy, Jackson or any one else Page 200 200 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIH. is moving on to Harpers Ferry or vicinit opment into your calculations. y. Take this expected devel- A. LINCOLN. WASHINGTON CITY, May 29, 18626.30 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: One of the New York regiments just arrived at Baltimore, being poorly armed and never drilled, I have directed General Dix to retain it and send forward to you one of his own well-drilled regiments. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, JJlay 29, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The railroad bridge burned this morning across the South Anna River was on the Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad. The bridge across the same stream, on the Virginia Central Railroad, was burned yesterday. The bridges over the South Anna River upon both rail. roads from Saxtons Station are now destroyed. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. MCCLELLANS, May 29, 186211.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The bridge destroyed by General Porters troops, and mentioned in General Marcys dispatch, was on the Richmond and Aqula Creek Railroad over the South Anna, and 500 feet in length. Later to-day another bridge on same railroad near Ashland, 200 feet long, has been totally destroyed by our cavalry. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. SPECIAL } WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.s OFFICE, ORDERS, Washington, May 29, 1862. * * * * * * * 4. Brig. Gen. John C. CaIdwell, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to duty in the Army of the Potomac, and will report to Major-General Mc- Clellan. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant.General Page 201 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRaSPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 201 WASHINGTON, May 30, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The enemy attacked Saxton at Harpers Ferry this morning at 2 oclock, and he is now crossing the river. EDWIN M. STANTON. WASHINGTON CITY, D. C., May 30, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: From all the evidence and conflicting reports and statements that have been made dnring the last three days I am satisfied that Ander- sons force has not joined Jackson. The force under Jackson was in front of Harpers Ferry at sundown. During the night there appeared to have been a stampede, but we are still in possession there. General Saxton commands, but his troops are new volunteers, very mwch affected with the alarm created by the re- treat of Banks. We are greatly rejoiced at your success in breaking the railroads and destroying the bridges. It seems to me the enemy will feel that blow more heavily than anything since the evacuation of Yorktown. I had an inquiry last night from General Mitchel, at Huntsville, whether it was true that you had taken Richmond. It see~ns the re- port is down there, and I hope and believe that 1 shall soon have the pleasure of announcing that great event. EDWIN M. STANTON. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, May 30, 18629.30 p. m. (Received May 31,. 1.15 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STA~TON, Secretary of War: A contraband reports that Beauregard arrived in Richmond day be- fore yesterday with troops and amid great excitement. I cannot vouch for the truth of this, but give it for what it may be worth in connection with evacuation of Corinth. Terrible storm this afternoon and to-night;. roads again frightful. Need more ambulances. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 30, 1862. General S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Gommanding Department: I explained to Captain Moses to-day General McClellans views about the condition of things on your line, which he has no doubt given you. Th addition to this it is proper to say that he expects you to conduct and control all the operations of the two corps now on the Richmond side of the Chickahominy River, and to give General Keyes any orders you may deem needful to insure the safety of that portion of the army. Please keep us informed of all that occurs of interest within the limita of your command. R. B, MARCY, Chief of Staff Page 202 202 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. xxm. HEADQUARTERS OLD CHURCH, FRED. T. LOCKE, May 30, 1862. Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I have the honor to report that my whole command reached here last night about 1 a. m The absence of the trains for rations from one or two of the regiments embarrassed us in moving from here. We shall probably set out in the cool of the evening. We made prisoners near Ashland yesterday of 9 men of the Fourth Virginia Cavalry and 3 men of the Twenty-eighth North Carolina. We have reason to believe that there was a small cavalry force of 50 or ~0 men watching. There is at this place yet about 70 barrels of flour and about 25 bags of corn meal, besides a few naval storesConfederate property. Trains of wagons also pass this way yet for provisions. I think it would not be safe to leave a small guard here over the stores for any length of time, and even the wagon trains should have a small escort after we are withdrawn, if it is intended to use this as a route. The news of our leaving will travel very rapidly around to Richmond from Mrs. Lee and others. I found this morning that Mrs. Major iDashiell, of the Confederate Army, is also our prisoner here at the ho- tel, her presence having been kept a secret. She became alarmed and asked for protection and advice. She says the advance of our pickets was wholly unexpected. There may be others similarly cooped up. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. K. WARREN, Colonel, Commanding. P. S.I return this by the orderly who brought up instructions. WASHINGTON, May 31, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: A circle whose circumference shall pass through Harpers Ferry, Front Royal, and Strasburo and whose center shall be a little north- east ofWinchester, almost certainly has within it this morning the forces of Jackson, Ewell, and Edward Johnson. Quite certainly they were within it two days ago. Some part of their forces attacked Har- pers Ferry at dark last evening and are still in sight this morning. Shields, with McDowells advance, retook Front Royal at 11 a. m. yes- terday, with a dozen of our own prisoners taken there a week ago, 150 of the enemy, two locomotives, and eleven cars, some other property and stores, and saved the bridge. General Fr~mont, from the direction of Moorefield, promises to be at or near Strasburg at 5 p. m. to-day. General Banks at Williamsport with his old force and his new force at Harpers Ferry, is directed to co-operate. Shields at Front Royal reports a rumor of still an addi- tional force of the enemy, supposed to be Andersons, having entered the valley of Virginia. This last may or may not be true. Corinth is certainly in the hands of General Halleck. A. LINCOLN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OP THE POTOMAC Camp near New Bridge, May 31, 1862. Brig. Gen. P. ST. GEORGE COOKE, Commanding Regular Cavalr~j: The commanding general directs that you detach two squadrons o Page 203 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 203 cavalry to proceed at once to Old Church, to take post there and to re- main until relieved. From this force guards will be detailed to be placed over the Confederate property there, and also over the houses of Mrs. General Lee and Mrs. Dashiell, with instructions to prevent any communication from the residents with the rebel lines. An officer will be sent either to Colonel Warren (Sykes brigade of regulars near these headquarters) or to Colonel Rush near Cold Har- bor to ascertain the location of the property and premises in question. Great vigilance will be necessary on the part of the force sent to Old Church. Scouts will be thrown well to the front and flanks to watch well the movements of the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Miay 31, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER: You will cross the Chickahominy River with your command and march at once to the support of General Heintzelman. Send out strong reconnaissance to the right toward New Bridge road and Old Town. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, New Bridge, May 31, 18625 ~: m. General HEINTZELMAN, Comm~anding Left Wing: You have done what I expected of you in retrieving the disaster of Casey. With the remaining five divisions you should hold your own. I will post everything during the night, so as to be able to cross at New Bridge to-morrow. Tell Kearny, Hooker, and Ord [~] that I ex- pect them to hold firm and repulse every and any attack. Recapture, if possible, any guns taken. Keep me fully informed of all that passes. Let me send to Washingtou as soon as possible the news that all is might. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Seven Pines, May 31, 1862. Brig. Gen. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: SIR: I send by my aide Lieut. B. C. Chetwood, who is the aide of Maj. Gen. J. E. Johnston. This young gentleman was handsomely captured by our pickets on our right, and near the place examined two (lays ago by Generals Baruard and Humphreys, where the enemy was drawn up in line of battle. In connection with the appearance of this young officer on our right and near our lines, I will state that the gen- eral officer of the day, Colonel Hunt, of Caseys division, heard the cars running through the night continually. Yesterday there was umuch stir among the enemy, and everything o Page 204 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. his part indicates an attack on my position, which is only tolerably strong and my forces are too weak to defend it properly. Brigadier- General Sumner told me yesterday he should probably cross the Chick- ahominy last night. If he did so, and takes post nigh the Old Tavern and this side, I should feel much more secure thau I do now. 1 am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Army Corps. Number of men compoeing the Army of the Potomac on the 31st day of May, 1562. I4~ ~a a .,~. ,~ ~a a o a p,n ~ O a 0 Q bL~ iLa a~ bfj ~ a I ~ ~L ~~a ~ ~ -~ a. General staff, Engineers, Engineer Brigade, cavalry division, escort 4,767 248 1,313 6,348 to headquarters, and provost guard. Second Corps (General Sumners) 17,412 703 2, 571 20, 686 Third Corps (General Heintzelmans) 16, 999 1, 502 3, 910 2~i, 411 Fourth Corps (General Keyes) 17, 132 1, 074 7, 111 25, 317 Fifth Provisional Corps (General Porters) 17, 546 976 4,394 22, 916 Sixth Provisional Corps (General Franklins) 19, 580 737 3, 928 24, 245 General van Alen, Yorktown and vicinity 1, 139 12 125 1, 296 Advance guard 2, 221 69 302 2, 592 Third and Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry 1,212 33 110 1,355 Grand aggregate 98,008 5,374 23,784 127,160 ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. C., December 31, 1862. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately com- piled from the morning report of the 31st day of May, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assistant adjutant-general, Seth Williams, and now on file in this office. U D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. Statement of troops under the command of Bvt. Maj. Gen. John E. Wool, commanding at Fort Monroe, June 1,1862. F~ ~ a a I a ~a -~ I a~ 4.,, ~ a- ~ ~ ~ bL~-~a iJ~ 0~ ~ ~ ~ H Department of virginia * 11 514 1,483 1, 010 14, 007 Grand aggregate 11 514 1, 483 1, 010 14, 007 * These troops were placed under the command of Major-General McClellan by General Orde~ a, No. 57, from the Adjutant-Generals Office, dated June 1, 1862. 20 Page 205 CHAP. XXIII.I 205 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., December 31, 1862. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately com- piled from the monthly return of the llst day of May, 1862, signed by Bvt. Maj. Gen. John E. Wool and his assistant adjutant-general, W. D. Whipple, and now on file in this office. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- Generat. WASHINGTON CITY, D. C., June 1, 18629.30. Major-General MCCLELLAN: You are probably engaged with the enemy. I suppose he made the attack. Stand well on your guard, hold all your ground, or yield any only inch by inch and in good order. This morning we merge Gen- eral Wools department into yours, giving you command of the whole, and sending General Dix to Fort Monroe and General Wool to Fort Mdllenry. We also send General Sigel to report to you for duty. A. LINCOLN. WASHINGTON CITY, D. C., June 1, 18621.15 p. m. Major. General MCCLELLAN: You are already notified that General Sigel is to report to you for duty. I suggest (do not order) that he have command of such of the forces about Fort Monroe, Norfolk, Newport News, & c., as you may see fit to put into active service, or such other command as may be suitable to his rank. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. 0., June 1, 18625 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Thanks for what you could and did say in your dispatch of noon to-day to the Secretary of War.* If the enemy shall not have renewed the attack this afternoon, I think the hardest of your work is done. Shields advance came in collision with part of the enemy yesterday evening 6 miles from Front Royal, in a direction between Winchester and Strasburg, driving them back, capturing a few prisoners and one rifled cannon. Firing in that direction to-day, heard both from Har- pers Ferry and Front Royal, indicate a probability that Fr6mont has met the enemy. We have concluded to .send General Sigel to Harpers Ferry, so that what I telegra~)hed you about him this morning is revoked. Dix goes to Fort Monroe to-night. A. LINCOLN. * See Part I. p. 749 Page 206 206 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXII1. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Captain GOLDSBOROUGH, June 1, 1862. Flag- Officer, Fort Monroe: A battle commenced yesterday between this and the rebel army, which is still undecided. Can you not order the gunboats on James River to move up as near Richmond as possible. It would undoubtedly prove a good co-operation for me. iNow is the time if you expect to give me any assistance, and not a moment is to be lost. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 1, 1862. General S. P. HEINTZELMAN: You will move up all your available force to the support of General Keyes, leaving force sufficient to guard your left and rear. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC June 1, 18625 j. m. General E. V. SUMNER: The general commanding directs that you drive the enemy back op- posite your front, along the line of the railroad, in order to afford effect- ive support to General Heintzelman. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC June 118 Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, 626.40 p. in. Commanding Second Corps: From further information the general commanding is convinced that the dispatch sent you by Major von Hammerstein exaggerates matters. The general does not think it probable that you will be attacked in the morning, and if you are, he thinks it will not be in so large force but that you can hold the ground you now occupy. He will communi- cate with you frequently, and he would prefer that you do not fall back to-morrow, even if you are not attacked, until you receive orders. I will telegraph to you frequently, giving you all the information we re- ceive. The best place for you to send dispatches is to General Heint- ~ headquarters. A. V. COLBURK, Assistant Adjutant- General. Hon. E- M. STANTON, BALTIMORE, June 1, 18626 p. m. Secretary of War: I did not look at my orders until I was on my way to Baltimore. Page 207 CHAF. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 find to my surprise that I am taken from an independent position to be placed in a subordinate one. The change cannot be regarded by the public in any other light than that of a censure and a degradation. I beg you to let me take General Wools command as it was, with instruc- fions to send to General McClellan all the troops I can spare. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GE~.s OFFICE, No. 57. Washington, June 1, 1862. The Department of Virginia is extended to include that part of Vir- ginia south of the iRappahannock and east of the railroad from Freder- icksburg to Richmond, Petersburg, and Weldon. Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, will assume command thereof, and of all the United States forces within its limits. Maj.Gen.JohnE.Wool, U. S. Army, is assigned to the command of the Middle Department, and will proceed to Baltimore and assume the command thereof. Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Volunteers, will proceed immediately to Fort Monroe and assume command at that point, reporting to Major- General McClellan for orders. By order of the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant~ General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 2, 18623 a. m. General HEINTZELMAN: As Genera] Sumner thinks he may be attacked at daylight, you will please hold your command ready to support him if necessary. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 2, 18623 a. m. General E. V. SUMNER: The general commanding says in reply to your dispatch that you must do the best you can to hold your own if attacked. General Heint- zelman will support you, and as the river is falling, he hopes we shall be able to cross the force here so as to support from the right. If you can repair the bridges in your rear, please have it done. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 2, 18623.30 p. m. General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General: I respectfully request that I may be informed whether the change just made in my command brings subject to my order any troops no Page 208 208 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL posted between Richmond and the Rappahannock; also please direct the commanders of such troops to report to me at once by telegraph the location and strength of their commands. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. ADJUTANT GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, June 2, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: There are no troops between Richmond and the Rappahannook in ad- vance of Fredericksburg subject to your command. The troops on the left bank of the river opposite Fredericksburg control that place. De. tacliments of course are kept in that place. You will be duly advised of the ordering of all troops sent to your command. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, June 2, 18627.10 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: A dispatch from General Halleck just received states as follows: HALLECKS HEADQUARTERS, June 2S a. m. Hon. THOMAS A. Scorr, Assistant Secretary of War: It is the unanimous report that no troops left Corinth till the 29th. We have abun- dant evidence that the evacuation was a hurried one. Beauregard was there on the 29th, and had not been to Virginia. Copies of orders issued by him during the evacu- ation have been found. His troops were to move on Okolona, Ripley, and Holly Springs. The destruction of the railroad at Booneville may have part iafly changed the programme. The main body of the enemy is retreating slowly south throngh~ swampy country, destroying the road and bridges behind them. The cars were almost entirely occupied in removing stores and the sick. No one has given any intimation that any troops have gone east. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General. Mr. Sanford, who is acquainted with the routes mentioned by General Halleck, says that there is no probability that any troops could reach Richmond by these routes without long delay. EDWIN M. STANTON. WASHINGTON, June 2, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army Potomac: The following dispatch has been received from Genral ilalleck: CORINTH, May 31, 1862. M. C. MEIGS, Quarte-master-General: If Beauregard has been at Richmond others have forged his signature, as I have received letters from him about exchange of prisoners, and nearly every day for th Page 209 CHAr. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIOI~. 269 last fortnight. The evacuation of Corinth commenced on Wednesday and was com- pleted on Thursday night, but in great haste, as an immense amount of property was destroyed and abandoned. No troops have gone from here to Richmond, unless within the last two days. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., June 2, 18628.50. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Dispatches from General ilalleck represent the rebel army from Cor- inth retreating in great disorder to Okolona. General Pope is pursning and harassing them with 50,000 men. We are anxious to know more particulars of your gallant action of yesterday. Nothing has been heard from McDowell since yesterday morning, nor of Fr6mont. The change at Fort Monroe will give you command of more troops, and as soon as possible we shall send yon more from here. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS, June 2, 18629 p. m. (Received June 3, 10.20 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Telegrams received. I am satisfied Beauregard is not here. Every- thing quiet to-day except some artillery firing heard at works on bridges. Enemy reported still in force in front of our right. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, ]Jfajor- General. HDQRS. llooIcI~RS DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Near Caseys (iamp, Va., June 2, 1862. Capt. CHAUNCEY MCKEEYER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Army Corps: I have the honor to report that I returned from my reconnaissance about 5 oclock this p. m. I found skirting the swamp in front of Caseys camp, on the Richmond road, two roads; one leading to the railroad, the other branching toward the James River and to the south of Richmond. These were traversed for some distancethe former to the railroadwithout important discoveries. In advance of these roads the enemy appeared to have a regiment of cavalry and three of infantry, but as the latter were most concealed in the forest, it was not l)rudent to determine their number; it may have been much greater. Our picket exchanged a few shots. On my return my command encamped in rear of Caseys camp, it not being possible to occupy that ground from the stench arising from the 14 R RVOL XI~ PT II Page 210 210 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ~CHAP. XXIII. bodies of dead animals, and unless early steps are taken I shall be com~ pelled to quit the camp now occupied by my command. I intend to make my headquarters there to-morrow morning. Kearny informs me that he has moved on to the railroad. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 2, 1862. 8oldiers of the Army of the Potomac: I have fulfilled alk least a part of my promise to you. You are now face to face with the rebels, who are at bay in front of their capital. The final and decisive battle is at hand. Unless you belie your past history the result cannot be for a moment doubtful. If the troops who labored so patiently and fought so gallantly at Yorktown, and who so bravely won the hard fights at Williamsburg, West Point, Hanover Court-House, and Fair Oaks now prove worthy of their antecedents, the victory is surely ours. The events of every day prove your superi- ority; wherever you have met the enemy you have beaten him; where- ever you have nsed the bayonet he has given way in panic and disor. der. I ask of yon now one last crowning effort. The enemy has staked his all on the issue of the coming battle. Let us meet and crnsh him here in the very center of the rebellion. Soldiers, I will be with you in this battle, and share its dangers with you. Our confidence in each other is now founded upon the past. Let us strike the blow which is to restore peace and union to this dis- tracted land. Upon your valor, discipline, and mutual confidence that result depends. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 168. Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 2, 1862. * * * * * * IV. In order [to] secure uniformity of action among the corps on the right bank of the Chickahominy, General Sumner, commanding the Second Corps, will, in the absence of the general commanding the army, assume command of the Second, Third, and Fourth Corps. The general positions occupied by the corps will be those held at the close of yesterdays battle, holding the Seven Pines and Fair Oaks Station, at least by strong advanced guards, which may be intrenched. Especial care will be taken to establish perfect communication between the three corps if necessary, opening new roads practicable for artillery. To accomplish this purpose the right should occupy Goldings; the left, the road running from Bottoms Bridge toward Charles City Court- House, now held by a portion of Hookers division. The engineers will select points to be occupied by the artillery and such as are to be strengthened by abatis, & c. The general purpose is to hold the positions now occupied by the Sec- ond, Third, and Fourth Corps until communication cau be made pra Page 211 CHAP. XXIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETO.IINLON. 211 ticable for crossing over the Fifth and Sixth on their right. No labor will be spared in at once rendering practicable and perfectly secure the coinmnnication now existing across the Chickahominy in rear of the three left corpsSecond, Third, and Fourth. Steps will at once be taken to supply deficiencies in ammunition, pro- visions, & c., as well as to organize promptly those commands which ~uff~ered most in the late battle, more particularly Caseys. A close in- spection will be made by the latter without delay, and its condition re- ported to these headquarters. V. Commanders of army corps will, with the least practicable delay, organize from the field batteries attached to the division composing their respective corps an artillery reserve, to consist of about one-half the whole field artillery force attached to the corps, and to be placed under the command of a suitable light artillery officer. This reserve will be subject only to the orders of the corps commander. * * * * * * * XVIII. Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Volunteers, having reported at these headqnarters in pursuance to orders from the War Depart- ment, Adjutant-Generals Office, of the 1st instant, will assume com- niand of the troops at Fort Monroe, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and in the vicinity of tliose places, exercising within his command the func- tions of the commander of a division or separate brigade. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. ~-ENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, No. 53. Fort Monroe, Va., June 2, 1862. The Department of Virginia having been assigned to Maj. Gen George B. McClellan, and Fort Monroe to Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, and the latter having arrived to assume command, Maj. Gen. John E. Wool this day takes leave of the department which he has commanded more than nine months with pleasure and entire satisfaction. The discipline and good order of the troops render it due to them to ~ay that he has ever, when required, found them prompt, zealous, active, and energetic. In parting with such a command he would do injustice to his feelings were he not to say he does it with extreme regret. He, however, derives consolation from the fact that they are hereafter to be commanded by generals who can appreciate their discipline, good order, and efficiency. By comlnand of Major-General Wool: SEPT. CARNCROSS, First Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp, Actg. Asst. Adjt. (len. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS, No. 1. Fort Monroe, Va., June 2, 1862. Pursuant to orders from the War Department the undersigned as- ~umes command at this point. All orders now in force will be obeyed until otherwise directed. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General Page 212 212 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 3, 18626 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: Some firing to-daynothing serious. Hard at work upon the bridges, removing wounded, & c. I expect at White House to-night six regi- ments, ordered up from Fort Monroe. These will at once be distributed among the old brigades. The next leap will be the last one. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Camp in the Pield, June 3, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac: SIR: In view of the very severe losses in my corps, I respectfully re- quest that some of the troops about to arrive as re-enforcements to this army may be assigned to the Fourth Corps. Caseys division, which has suffered so much from sickness and bat- tle, from the lack of experienced officers, and the majority of which was not at all instructed at the opening of this campaign, has now three good brigadiers. By the addition of a few new regiments of drilled troops its morale and efficiency would be vastly increased. I respectfully request that two good batteries may be assigned to Caseys division, to constitute a part of the Reserve Artillery under my command, and one to Couchs division to be a part of the reserve from his division, according to recent orders, to be placed under the com- mand of the corps commander. Brigadier-General Sumner has ordered all my cavalry to his head- quarters, and I have sent Colonel Gregg and the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, leaving me only a few of the Eighth Illinois for orderlies and messengers. My corps now has an extensive territory to guard, and cavalry is absolutely necessary. I would be glad therefore to have Colonel Gregg and his regiment permanently assigned to my command. In conclusion, I beg further to request that the regiments of Couchs division, the Second Rhode Island and Ninety-eighth Pennsylvania, on duty with Brigadier-General Stoneman, and the Ninety-third New York, of Caseys division, on duty with Colonel Ingalls, be relieved and returned to their respective commands. I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier-General, Commanding Fourth Corps. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS FORT MONROE, VA., No. 2. f June 3, 1862. The following order having been received from Headquarters Army of the Potomac, is hereby promulgated: Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Volunteers, having reported at these headquarters in pursuance to orders from the War Department, Adjutant-Cenerals Office, of the isli instant, will assume command of the troops at Fort Monroe, Norfolk, Portsmouth Page 213 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 213 ~uffo]k, and in the vicinity of those places, exercising within his command the fnnc- tions of the commander of a division or a separate corps.. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, A88iatant Adjutant-General. By command of Major-General Dix: D. T. YA1~ BUREK, Assistant Adjutant- General. JuNE 4, 18622.30 a. m. Colonel WARD Commanding Birneys Brigade: Lu compliance with within notice be ready to attack the enemy cau- tiously in flank toward Fair Oaks Station. Keep your own flank secure by a regiment thrown back at right angle to your advance. Yours, KEALIKY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General JAMESON: In compliance with within be ready to move up the railroad, to cross and attack the enemy in flank if he does not attack you in front. Com- bine with Hobart Ward. Only commit two regiments. Yours, KEALINY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, June 3, 186211.50 p. rn. General KEARNY, Commanding Division: GENERAL: From information I have received I have reason to ex- pect a formidable attack to-morrow morning. Please advance with your division at 2 a. m. in order to attack the flank of the enemy if he assails me in large force. Everything may depend upon this movement of yours. Come directly up the railroad, so as to arrive at Fair Oaks Station by daylight. By order of Brig. Gen. E. V. Sumner: J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of & aff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ENGINEER BRIGADE, Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 4, 1862. General MARCY, Chief of & aff, Army of the Potomac: Your last note of this date I received to-night, on the Chickahominy, 2 miles below New Bridge. The commanding general, through Colonel Colburn, had directed me to make a foot bridge over the Chickahominy to-night. I concluded that I would try to mak~ two foot bridges, one about one-fourth mil Page 214 214 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. below the lower trestle bridge, and one about three-fourths of a mile below that. This great amount of work in one night made it necessary that I should call for details out of my own brigade. I have parties at work at both places, but they will not finish their work to-night at either place. At the upper place, however, I hope they will make a passable foot bridge ready for use early in the morning. The troops of the Engineer Brigade work very willingly, and if they have not done enough it is my fault. My reports to General Barnard will show the extent of their services. Last night two companies of the Fifteenth worked all night iii the rain in throwing up ~n infantry parapet on the south side of the lower trestle bridge. It rained this forenoon, and I did not call for much work. Two compaflies were sent last night to Bottoms Bridge to rebuild the bridge erroneously reported to be washed away. One company is kept at the White House, to take care of property, & c.; a detachment is left with each bridge, to ~ atch and take care of it. A detachment, parts of several companies, was at work this morning on the corduroy south of the upper trestle bridge, until, as the com- manding officer reported, Colonel Alexander wisely, as I think, told them to stop. At the present stage of the river 400 yards of corduroy will be required over the south approach to lower bridge and about 100 yards of bridge. Only a little of this work can be done before the enemy is driven away. I hope to receive pontoons enough to-morrow or next day to make the 300 feet of bridges. Respectfully, D. P. WOODBURY, Brigadier- General Volunteers. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 170. Gamp near New Bridge, Va., June 4, 1862. I. Instead of reporting to Major-General Dix, as directed by Special Orders, No 168, of the 2d instant, from these headquarters, Brig. Gen. J. C. Caldwell will at once report in person to Brigadier-General Sum- ner, commanding Second Corps, for temporary assignment to the brigade lately commanded by Brigadier-General Howard, now absent from duty by reason of wounds received in action. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. MCCLELLANS, June 5, 186210 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: My order of the 25th May, directing the order of march from the Chickahominy and the disposition to be made of trains and baggage, is published in full in the Baltimore American of the 2d instant. It any statement could afford mote important information to the enemy I am unable to perceive it. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN Page 215 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. Ciw~. XXIII.] 215 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 5, 1862A p. in. ABRAHAM LINCOLN: May I again invite Your Excellencys attention to the great impor- tance of occupying Chattanooga and Dalton by our Western forcest The evacuation of Corinth would appear to render this very easy. The importance of the move in force cannot be exaggerated. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near New Bridge, June 5, 18628 p. in.. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM F. SMITH, Commanding Division: GENERAL: Major-General McClellan has received your note of this p.m. He directs me to say to you that you will cause a reconnaissance to be made to-morrow morning in the direction of the Old Tavern, with a force not to exceed a squadron of cavalry and 200 or 300 infantry, to ascertain if the enemy is in force in that quarter. Under no circum- stances does the general desire you to bring on a general engagement. The general wishes me to add that until the crossings of the river are sufficiently completed he is not prepared to invite a general engage- ment. Any movement calculated to produce this result might involve disastrous consequences. The commanding general will probably visit your headquarters to- morrow morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant-Generai. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 171. f Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 5, 1862. * * * * * * * V. Brig. Gen. G. W. Taylor, U. S. Volunteers, having reported for duty at these headquarters, is assigned to the command of the brigade of New Jersey regiments in Slocums division of the Sixth Provisional Army Corps. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General 43-ENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, THiRD CORPS, No. 15. f Camp near Richmond, June 5, 1862. I. Brave regiments of the division! you have won for us a high reputa- tion. The country is satisfied; your friends at home are proud of you. After two battles and victories, purchased with much blood, you may be counted as veterans Page 216 216 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. XXITI. J appeal, then, to your experience, to your personal observation, tc~ your high intelligence to put in practice on the battle-field the disci- pline you have acquired in camp. It will enable you to conquer with more certainty and less loss. II. Shoulder straps and chevrons ~ you are marked men; you must be ever in the front. Colonels and field officers! when it comes to the bayonet, lead the charge. At other times circulate among your men, and supervise and keep officers and men to their constituted commands; stimulate the laggard, brand the coward, direct the brave, l)revent companies hud- dling up or mixing. III. Marksmen! never in the fight cheapen your rifles. When you fire, make sure and hit. In wood and abatis one man in three is to fire; the others reserve their loads to repel an onset or to head a rush. It is with short rushes and this extra fire from time to time that such ground is gained; each man up in first line, none delaying; share danger alike, then the peril and loss will be small. lY. Men! you brave individuals in the ranks, whose worth and daring, unknown perhaps to your superiors, but recognized by your comrades, influence more than others. I know that you exist; I have watched you in the fire; your merit is sure to have its recompense; your coin- rades at the bivouac will repeat your deeds, and it will gladden your families, and in the end will be brought before the country. V. Color-bearers of regiments! bear them proudly in the fight, erect and defiantly, in the first line. It will cast terror into the opponents to see it sustained and carried forward. Let it be the beacon-light of each regiment. The noblest inscription on your banners are the traces of the balls. VI. Again, noble division, I wish you success and new victories, until the cause of our sacred Union, being triumphant, you return honored to your homes. By order of Brigadier.General Kearny: W. E. STURGES, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington Gity, D. 0., June 6, 1862. Major-General MCDOWELL: The President directs that McCalls division be sent by water t~ Major-General McClellan immediately, and that you place such force at Fredericksburg by the time McCall leaves there as may, in your judgment, be necessary to hold that place. In respect to the operations of the residue of your force the Presi- dent reserves direction to be given as soon as he de~rmines. Tramis- portation has been ordered up the Rappahannock from here and from. Fort Monroe. Adjutant-General will issue the order. EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. Maj. Gen. I. MCDOWELL, WASHINGTON, June 6, 1862. Front Royal, Va.: The Secretary of War directs that you immediately put General McCalls division in readiness to be moved to the command of Major Page 217 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNiON. 21T General McClellan, before Richmond, and that as fast as transporta- tion can be supplied they be forwarded by the Rappahannock from Fredericksburg. You will place at Fredericksburg such additional force as you may judge necessary for the security of that place. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington Gity, D. 0., June 6, 1862.. JoHN TUCKER. Assistant 8ecretary of War, Fort Monroe, Va.: Transports for 6,000 men have been ordered from Washington t~ Fredericksburg. Send from Fort Monroe enough for the remainder of McCalls division, whose total strength is 10,000 men and five batteries~ of light artillery. They will embark at Falmouth and descend they Rappahannock. By order of the Secretary of War: M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General.. FORT MONROE, VA., June 6, 186~. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have steamers now here to transport 8,000 men. The transporta which took troops from here on Tuesday should be back to-night. If so, I can readily send enough. If not, I can order by telegraph steamers from White House, if you direct the movement to be made. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., June 6, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Officers of your army, some of high rank, are sending details to their wiyes and friends, by telegraph, of the late disasters, in respect to the number killed and wounded. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS, June 6, 1862noon. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Has been raining, but now stopped. River still rising. All quiet to-day. Several deserters and contrabands state that J. E. Johnston was dangerously wouuded in battle of Fair Oaks and that G. W. Smith is in command. Their loss is stated at 10,000. I only know that it is. very great, far more than ours. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. Page 218 218 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXITh U. S. STEAM-SLOOP WACHUSETT, Turkey Island, James River, Va., June 6, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, U. S. A.: SIR: Since taking command of naval force in this river I have made three divisions of it; one at Sturgeontown, above Four-mile Creek; another at Turkey Island, opposite Mr. Taylors farm; and a third at ~City Point. Have also stationed a vessel near Old Fort (or Powbatan) and will send one to Jamestown, so that you may have the means of communicating your wishes. I hear that some 3 miles back of Mr. Aikens residence, 2 miles above Sturgeontown, there is a rebel force of from 3,000 to 5,000 infantry and artillery, under command of General Wise, left bank of river descend- ing. To-day, in passing, we were fired at from high bluff, timbered, on right bank of river. The farms on either side of bluff owned by the Messrs. Watkins; the younger in rebel army at Richmond. Contra- bands say there are 300 soldiers and some artillery in the neighbor- hood. I had hoped to have communicated with you through contraband from present anchorage. The Spanish consul, lady, and others came from Charleston, via Petersburg, to City Point to-day. Nothing new could be got from them, except that two Union officers on parole said they were on an important mission, possibly their own exchange. The party expected to find the transport steamer Massachusetts. She, after waiting three days to hear from General Huger on subject of exchange of pirates and others, had left. I sent the party to Old Point Comfort to be delivered to General Dix. The barriers or dams near Fort Darling, it is said, will require three months of unmolested labor to remove. The fort at Drewry~s or Wards Bluff is strengthened with railroad iron facings, and two other forts have been built near by. We are ready to render any service in the good cause in our power. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. P. GILLIS, Commodore, Commanding Naval Forces James River. HDQRS. HOOKERS DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp near Fair Oaks Station, Va., June 6, 1862. ~Japt. CHAUNCEY MOKEEVER Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Army Corps: As the enemys pickets manifested a little disposition to encroach on our lines to-day, a small cavalry force and two companies of infantry were sent out to recover the ground occupied by us heretofore. A lit- tle firing ensued, which ~esu1ted in a slight wound to one of our men and the killing of one horse. The object was gained. The enemy appear to be busy in constructing field works in the open field across the swamp from us. From their numerous and strong pick- ets it will be impossible to obtain a knowledge of them without attack- ing in some force sufficient to drive in their pickets. I forward herewith a letter received this evening, to which I replied that I would make my an& wer to-morrow. I respectfully suggest that it will be detrimental to our interests fo Page 219 CHAP. XXIII.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 219 the enemy to visit our camp as proposed. They would see our strength, our works, the condition of the roads, & c. In my opinion it is expe- dient their visit be postponed. Be pleased to have this telegraphed, that I may receive further in- ~tructions. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HDQRS. HOOKERS DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp near Fair Oaks Station, Va., June 7, 1862. Capt. CHXUNCEY MCKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant-General, Third Army Corps: I have the honor to submit the following report of the number of officers and men in my command fit for duty, exclusive of the Second New York Volunteers, recently assigned to me: First Brigade: Officers Enlisted men 2,419 2.516 Second Brigade: Officers - - 102 Enlisted men 2, 163 2,265 Third Brigade: Officers 77 Enlisted men 1,954 2,031 Total 6,812 Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division. WASHINGTON, June 7, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: We shall endeavor to send you McCalls or Kings divisionwhich- ever can be sent first. EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, P. C., June 7, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Four regiments were embarked yesterday from Baltimore and one from here. One more goes to-day from Baltimore and one from here, making seven in all. McCall is ready to move as soon as transporta. tion arrives at Fredericksburg. Please state whether you will feel sufficiently strong for your final movement when McCall reaches you. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 220 220 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. SPE~-1IAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, o~ 173. Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 7, 1862. * * * * * * * V. B!4gadier-Genera~l Casey will immediately consolidate the three bmguues of his division, Fourth Army Corps, into two brigades, to be commanded by Brig. Gens. Henry M. Naglee and H. W. Wessells. V I. Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer will report to Brig. Gen. ID. N. Couch for the temporary command of Devens brigade, of his division, during the absence of its commander on account of wounds received, in battle. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLJAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Maj. Gen. ~. MCDOWELL, Washington, D. C., Jui~e 8, 1862. Fredericksburg, Va.: GEINERAL: * * * The Secretary of War directs that, having first provided adequately for the defense of the city of Washington and for holding the position at Fredericksburg, you operate with the residue of your force, as speedily as possible, in the direction of Richmond, to co-operate with Major-General McClellan, in accordance with the instructions heretofore given you. McCalls division, which has been by previous order directed toward Richmond by water, will still form a part of the Army of the Rappa- hannock, and will come under your orders when you are in a position to co-operate with General McUlellan.* * * * * * * * I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON CITY, ID. C., June 8, 1862. Flag-Officer GOLDSEOROUGH, Norfolk, Va.: Have the fortifications at Sewells Point and Craney Island been destroyed or blown up; and, if so, by whose order? Davis has cap- tured Memphis and destroyed the whole rebel fleet. G. V. FOX. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major-General MCCLELLAN, Washington, D. C., June 84 1862. (Jommanding Department of Virginia, before Richmond: For the third time I am ordered to join you, and this time I hope to get through. In view1 of the remarks made with reference to my leaving you and * This communication entire will at$pear in Series I, Vol. XII. The above extract covers so much of it as relates to co-operation with McClellan. Another copy of this dispatch is dated June 10 Page 221 CUAI. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 221 my not joining you before by your friends, and of something I have heard as coming from you on that subject, I wish to say that I go with the greatest satisfaction, and hope to arrive with my main body in time to be of service. McCall goes in advance by water. I will be with you in ten days with the remainder by land from Fredericksburg. Major- General, Oomdg. IRVIN McDOWELL, Departnzent of the Rappahannock. FORT MONROE, June 9, 18625 a. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have sent McClellan nine of the best regiments in General Wools late command. I sent him yesterday Fardellas One hundred and first New York Volunteers, just arrived from Washington; in all ten regi- ments. I shall have left only five reliable regiments for this post, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk. I have four regiments New York militia, entirely raw, and imperfectly armed and equipped; a very poor regiment from Maryland, and about 1,000 artillery and cavalry. I have not yet received the reports from the militia regiments, which are very small. I do not think my whole force can exceed 9,500 men. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, June 9, 18621 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Your telegram received. I have already telegraphed in reference to the co-operation of General ~Dix and myself. I also referred to Gov- ernor Stanlys policy. It is evidently misunderstood by the Northern people. Mr. Collyer has misrepresented the matter, if newspapers are correct. Governor Stanly is as sound on the Union question as you or 1. In answer to a dispatch from me to General McClellan, stating that I was here, he says, Can you not come up to see me in a special boati ShallIgo? A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. FORT MONROE, June 9, 18625 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Three regiments on Roanoke Island; one at Washington; one at New- port on railroad, and one and a half at Beaufort and Fort Macon; four- teen at New Berne; one regiment artillery and one regiment cavalry and three batteries divided along the different commands. A large portion of the force at New Berne is on picket duty. Regiments average ~00 effective men. I leave for McClellans at once. Will telegraph you before I return to New Berne. A. E. BURNSIDE Page 222 222 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE PDTOMAC, No. 133. f Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 9, 1862. I. In order to prevent marauding and the ill-treatment of the inhab- itants of the country by soldiers and followers of the army, straggling or going to the rear singly or in small parties not under proper control, it is directed that until further orders, all soldiers belonging to this army, whose terms of enlistment may expire from and after this date, or who are to be discharged the service from whatever cause; all team- sters or other civil employ~s of the United States Govern inent, and all servants in the employ of officers, remain within the division to wl~ich they belong, or with which they may be employed, until they can be col- lected into parties of sufficient size to justify their being sent to the rear under charge of a division provost guard. II. In discharging soldiers from hospitals the surgeons in charge will be particularly careful to give them the proper passes when sent tojoiu their regiments. The passe~s will give their names, companies, regi- ments, divisions, and corps, and, if possible, their stations. III. At all general hospitals the convalescents of each division will be detained until a party of sufficient number can be formed, to be sent under charge of a commissioned officer, if possible; if not, then under an energetic non-commissioned officer, to the command to which they belong. IV. The attention of corps and division commanders is called to para- graph IX, General Orders, No. 60, of February 21, 1862, from these headquarters, the requirements of which in the late battles were not observed in a single instance. The paragraph is republished, with direc- tions for strict compliance with its provisions hereafter: All prisoners captnred from the enemy will be tnrned over to the provost-marshal of division, who wilt send them, at the earliest practicable moment, wih complete descriptive lists and information as to where, when, and how they were cap~nred, t~ the provost.-rnarsbal-general. By command of Major-General McClelh~n: S. WThJLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 175. Camp near Aew Bridge, Va., June 9, 1862. * * * * * * * V. Brig. Gen. John C. Robinson is assigned temporarily to the com- mand of Birneys brigade, Kearnys division, Third Army Corps, and will report accordingly, without delay. * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. UNITED STATES FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Norftdk, June 10, 1862. lion. G. V. Fox, Assistant & eretary of the Navy: Sn~: Your telegram of the 8th did not reach me until last night. The President when here said to me that whatever General Wool and myself thought best with regard to destroying the works left by th Page 223 CHAP. xxm.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 22~ enemy could be done, and General Wool, on being consulted, most decidedly agreed with me in opinion that in view of a possible reverse at Richmond they should be destroyed. Accordingly the casemates, magazines, and bomb-proofs at Pig Point, Sewells Point, Craney Isl- and, and Penners Point, together with the log huts at each of these places, have been blown up and burned, but the parapets and embra- sures as a general thing still remain, and it is not my purpose to dis- turb them further unless ordered to do so. In a day or two I shall ship to Washington fourteen Dahlgrens, 9-inch guns, one 10-inch, one 11-inch, and three heavy 9-pounders, with their carriages, all belonging to our Na~~y. The 8-inch guns and the 39-pounders worth saving I propose to send to the navy-yard, unless the Department wishes me to do otherwise The 32-pounder rifled by the enemy I have had destroyed, and also some old 32-pounders and carronades. Removing the guns in many cases is a very laborious and tedious job. The weather here of late, having been much against us, rendered the roads very difficult of use. I congratu- late the Department upon the glorious success of Captain Davis. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGII, Flag- Officer. MCCLELLANS, June 10, 1862. (Received 3.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: All quiet this morning. Considerable artillery firing yesterday. No one injured on our side. During the night it commenced to rain heavily, and has not yet ceased. The ground in such condition that artillery cannot be moved over the fields. I hope soon to see the first of McCalls division. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN Major- General. WASHINGTON, June 10, 1862: Major-General MCCLELLAN: You probably have observed by the papers that Du Pont is operating against Charleston through Stono Creek. Hunters force is small,, and may not be sufficient to take Fort Johnson, on James Island. But Mr. Fox says that Fort Johnson is the key of the position, and, if taken~ / Charleston must follow. Stono is in our possession. McCall has left Fredericksburg, and is on the way to join you with his force. Have you instructed him where he shall land 0? EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS, June 11, 18628 a. m. Hoii. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: McCalls troops have commenced arriving at White House. I have sent instructions. Weather good to-day. Glad to hear of Commodore Dii Ponts and Hunters progress. Give me a little good weather and I shall have progress to report here. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General Page 224 224 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. FORT MONROE, June 11, 186210.30 a. m. [Ion. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: I have just returned from ~ headquarters, where II passed about six hours. It stormed very hard all day. The roads are in the most wretched condition. I. was four and a half hours traveling .9 miles. It is impossible to move artillery whilst they are so bad. But for the railroad the army could not be subsisted and foraged. The general health was improving. The officers and men are in good spir- its. I will write you fully of our consultation about co-operating. I would very much like a personal interview, but feel that I cannot re- main away from my department any longer unless you desire it. I would A be glad to get any instructions you may have by telegraph. BURNSIDE. P. S.Since writing the foregoing I have just heard from my de- partment by a boat which left iRoanoke at 7 oclock last evening. Everything quiet. IIDQRS. ARMY OF POTOMAC, June 11, 186211 p. m. (Received Washington, D. 0., June 12, 186212.10 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: The following is taken from the Richmond Whig of the 10th instant: STAUNTON, June 9. Oovernor LETCHER: General Jackson has given Shields an awful whipping, capturing one regiment and his artillery, and driven him for miles down the Shenandoah, Fr6mont appeared on the opposite bank of the North and Shenandoah Rivers. Our victory to-day over Shields is complete. If General J& ~ckson had re- enforcements he would save all. Oar loss is very heavy, but the enemys was tremendous. The cavalry is still in pursuit. Fr6mont has crossed the North River with a small force at Rockland Mills. Second dispatch: STAUNTON, June 9. ~leneral Asliby was killed last Friday. Our loss yesterday was about 200; to. day much heavier. Will give you any news additional that comes to band. Great victory over Shields to-day. Third dispatch: STAUNTON, June 9. Frdmont is falling back and blockading the road. Jackson pressing Shields. Urge forward the re-enforcements, so that he may follow np his successes. A. W. H.* There is reason to believe that two regiments of infantry and a bat- tery of artillery were sent from Richmond on Sunday, the 8th instant, to re-enforce Jackson. 0-EG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp at Dr. Trents, June 12, 18626 p. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have moved headquarters across Chickahominy. The maps I send * Maj. A. W. Harman, C. S. Army Page 225 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 225 by to-days mail will show positions. Made reconnaissance as far as Meadow Bridge this morning. Found the enemy quiet, but in force. Some firing and skirmishing near here to-day; amounts to nothing~ Weather now good. Roads and ground rapidly drying. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding.. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 12, 1862. (Received June 131 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: In your telegrams respecting re-enforcements you inform me that; General McDowell, with the residue of his command, will proceed over- land to join me before Richmond. I beg leave to suggest that the destruction of the railroad bridges by flood and fire cannot probably be remedied under four weeks; that an attempt to employ wagon trans- portation must involve great delay and may be found very difficult of accomplishment. An extension of my right wing to meet him may in- volve serious hazard to my flank and my line of communications, and may not suffice to rescue from any peril in which a strong movement of the enemy may involve him. I would advise that his forces be sent by water. Even a portion thus sent would, by reason of greater expe- dition and security and less complications of my movements, probably be more serviceable in the operations before Richmond. The road throughout the region between the Rappahannock and the James can- not be relied upon and may become execrable even should they be in their best condition. The junction of his force with the extension of my right flank cannot be made without derangement of my plans, and. if my recent experience in moving troops be indicative of the diffi-- culties incident to McDowells march, the exigencies of my present posi- tion will not admit of the delay. I have ordered back all the transports used in bringing McCalPs division, that they may be ready for service if you deem it best to em- ploy water transportation. I have to-day moved my headquarters across the Chickahominy to a central position, so that I can readily reach any point of attack or advance. The enemy are massing their troops near our front, throwing up earthworks on all the approaches to Richmond, and giving every indication of fight. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, THIRD CORPS, June 12, 1862. Captain MOKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant-General, Third Corps: SIR: In answer to all queries as to my position, I have this moment returned from a thorough examination of the same. I can assure the general that it is complete, easily defended with my two brigades, and fulfills all his desires. 15 R RYOL XI~ PT II Page 226 226 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXIII. I have two brigades in the position, forming a first line and half as reserves, two Michigan regiments supporting the pickets to the left and front, and four companies of Wards brigade directly in front, ready to attack in flank any enemy approaching Hookers left. My battery sweeps every approach, and would materially aid an at- tack on Hookers left. The natural defenses are of litkle avail in our front, but are said (I have often examined the swamp) to be a reliable protection from our left to the rear. however, from the height of our left I regard it as of small avail excepting as preventing the crossing of artillery. From the abatis, 300 yards from and nearly on a height with Hookers redouht, the swampy grounds extend in a semi-circle around to our left, and was the first crossed by him yesterday. I regard it as barely an impediment to the enemy. In front it is watched by four picked com- panies, which, with the strong Indiana marksmen, have orders to sup- port Hooker actively. As to myself, it is under the sweep of a battery of eight pieces, inde- pendent of a steady line of infantry in position, with equal numbers in support. The picket line commences half a mile in our front; I should say much farther relatively in front than is Hookers. The main line extends around to my left on the swamp, rather increasing in distance from my site on the road over which the enemy is most likely to approach, cer- tain wood roads arriving from the upper points of the Charles City road, and circling around from the Williamsburg road, a mile or so in front of Hookers. We are upon the enemys l)ickets; we are perhaps 200 paces apart. They vary their line. We have thorough marksmen at these points, vigilant pickets, and very strong reservestwo companies on the two dangerous roads which come into a lateral road some 30() paces apart, and one company on the shortest line to the Charles City road. In addition, on this short line to the new Charles City road, the one on which General Heintzelman rode out, we have a chain of small pickets, guarding also certain branches of it to said road. We hold the new Charles City road for about one-third of a mile. This road is a short 2 miles from our left. The general rode out yesterday about 1 mile on it. It is perfectly secured. On this new Charles City road the side of it toward us is forest; then comes a strip of clearing (and many good farm- houses) 300 to 400 yards wide, and then comes a belt of heavy timber bordering the arm of the White Oak Swamp. There is said to be a crossing there. The distance between the two roads is about three- quarters of a mile. The new Charles City road comes into the main one 14 miles from our pickets. The enemys pickets seem in some force close to us, as toward Richmond, and as on the swamp between the two Charles City roads. The only requisite to be desired is a supply of axes to make vistas for the artillery, especially toward Hooker. They cannot be obtained either from Hooker or Sumner. It is to be regretted. In conclusion, I state it for what it is worth that between my first crossing and return over the nearest arm of the White Oak Swamp the water had diminished almost completelymore than three-quarters. I have given orders to our scouts to watch the swamp. It may be the cessation of the rain; it may be that the waters are being diverted. Respectfully, your obedient servant, General, P. KEARNY!. Brigadier- Commanding Division Page 227 CJIAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE2 ETC.UNION. 227 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 134. Camp Lincoln, Va., June 12, 1862. I. All fast riding or driving of public horses and mules is positively prohibited, unless in cases of necessity. Trains will not move faster than a walk, except nuder written orders to the officer or wagon-master in charge. Officers sending mounted messengers with dispatches, which are to be carried at a faster pace than a walk, will indicate upon the envelope the gait the messenger is to take, whether a trot or a gal- lop. The same directions may be indicated by the seals on the envel- opeone seal for the walk, two for the trot, and three for the gallop. Officers will be held responsible for the instructions they give to monnted orderlies or trains with regard to their gait. All provost-marshals and provost guards are specially charged with the enforcement of this order. II. The present camp of these headquarters will be known as Camp Lincoln. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE: General McClellan desires me to say that there -is a prospect of an engagement here shortly. He will telegraph you more fully in the course of two or three hours, and at any rate wishes you to remain at Fort Monroe until you hear from him. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Lincoln, June 14, 1862. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report for the information of the gen- eral commanding that I have caused to be established observatory sta- tions on the other (the left) bank of the Chickahominy, near Hogans house, and at Austins house, near the mill this side of Mechanicsville. From these points the open ground now in possession of the enemy and in front of our lines can be observed. The view extends also over the heights opposite Mechanicsville, and partially covers some of the main roads leading from Richmond and north of the railroad, such as those passing Mrs. Christians, Old Tavern, and Garnetts house, on this side the Chickahominy. These stations communicate directly with a signal station near General Smiths headquarters. From General Smiths headquarters to this camp I have directed a field telegraph to be extended. The officers upon the observatory stations are ordered to report any movements or forces of the enemy within their view at 4 a. in., at 12 in., at 6 p. m, and at 12 p. m. In case of firing, to report what guns of the enemy are firing and in what direction. They are further ordered to keep a constant wateh with telescopes and report. Mes- sages can be sent hence to these stations or received here whenever it may be desirable Page 228 228 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. I have the honor to further report that the country on the other side of the Chickahominy and in the vicinity of many of the bridges is fa- vorable for the establishment of signal stations, and to request to be informed what points it is desirable should be placed nuder especial observation. It has seemed to me that the fire of batteries posted upon the other side of the Chickahominy could be made to cover an advance on this by signal communication, or could equally be directed by signals here upon an enemy advancing upon our lines and invisible to us, but not to the officers at the batteries. In reference to observations to be made from the balloons prior to or during an engagement, I would state that if an officer of experience as an engineer could be detailed to make the observations, his brief reports as to the movements of an enemy invisible to him can be sent from the car of the balloon at Hogans to the general commanding at General Smiths headquarters, or wherever on the field in front of our present position he may be in sight of the balloon, by a signal officer to be detailed for that purpose. I am of the opinion that reports might be received in the same manner from the balloon at Mech~inicsville. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALBERT J. MYER, ~3ignal Officer, Major. U. k. ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, MEDICAL DIRECTORS OFFICE, Gamp Lincoln, June 15, 1862. General IR. B. MARCY, Chief of Sta/f, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Surg. J. F. Hammond, medical director, Sumners corps, having telegraphed to me this morning that there were some signs of scurvy in that corps, I sent Dr. A. K. Smith over at once to investi- gate the matter. Dr. Smith reports to me that he found six cases in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Massachusetts Regiments, in Danas brigade, and several more acquiring the predisposition to scurvy. General Dana informed Dr. Smith that he had been unable to obtain vegetables (such as potatoes) for his men for a long time. Paragraph 12(~2, General Regulations, confines the issue of antiscorbutics to the sick and then they are to be paid for out of the hospital fund. I think, however, that potatoes have been made part of the ration by an act of Congress. It is certain that vegetables are absolutely necessary to prevent scurvy, and if, as in our present circumstances, they cannot be purchased by the men, the subsistence department must supply them, or the men will become scorbutic. I have ordered a supply of lemons and cream of tartar from White House to Sumners corps. I have also telegraphed to Colonel Clarke to issue, if possible, potatoes, dried apples, pickles, and desiccated vegetables to the men, and have promised to furnish him with any authority he needs that I can procure. I think the issue of the three first articles absolutely necessary, and have no doubt it will speedily arrest the disease. The desiccated veg- etables are less reliable, as the men dislike to use them. They should, however, be compelled to do so. Potatoes come in this shape, and I believe the commissary has them on hand. I have the honor to recoin Page 229 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 229 mend that fresh potatoes, fresh onions, dried apples, and desiccated vegetables be immediately ordered to be issued as parts of the daily rations, and that the commanding officers be charged with the duty of seeing them daily and properly used. As I am closing this letter I receive the following dispatch from Colonel Clarke in reply to my telegram: Potatoes, dried apples, and desiccated vegetables have been sent to the depot near Fair Oaks Station, from which General Sumners corps draws its supplies. More will be sent. I do not know a single command in which Special Orders, No. 155, Head- quarters Army of the Potomac, have been complied with. Could not the medical directors insist on having it carried out in their respective corps? The means, then, of preventing scurvy have always been ready for issue in the subsistence department. The responsibility for its occur- rence rests with those who have neglected to use those means. I think stringent orders necessary to compel regimental officers to see that their men are provided with and habitually use these necessary articles. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHS. S. TRIPLEB, Surgeon and Medical Director, Army of the Potomac. (Copy for General Williams.) HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, June 15, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: SIR: I am just in from General Caseys heaffquarters. The cessation of the rains a few days past has dried up the White Oak Swamp to a certain degree, and it is fordable in many places. If the enemy has force to spare for a diversion, Casey is too weak in that quarter. A reconnoitering party of cavalry from Caseys camp proceeded to- day to within 2~ miles of the James River and examined the roads toward Richmond. They discovered but a few mounted pickets, and captured a horse and equip inents and a carbine or two. I remain, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. MCCLELLANS, June 15, 18627.40 p. m. (Received June 16, 12.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Another rain set in about 3p. m. to-day and has continued up to the present time. This will retard our movements somewhat, as a little rain causes the ground in this section to become soft and boggy, ren- dering it impossible to move artillery except directly in the traveled roads. In this arm especially consists our great superiority over the eneniy, and as we will have to cut out several roads through new ground for the army to advance, then it is absolutely necessary that we should have some f6w days of dry weather to make the ground firm enough t Page 230 230 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CuAP. XXIII. sustain forces and guns. The brigades are progressing rapidly, and we shall very soon be ready to strike the final blow. Colonel Key has had an interesting interview with Howell Cobb to- day, the particulars of which I will explain to you by letter.* It proves among other things most conclusively that they will defend Richmond to the last extremity. The interview was arranged for the purpose of bringing about an exchange of prisoners, but in the course of the con- versation other matters were introduced and discussed. Six prisoners just captured from the First North Carolina State troops say their regi- inent arrived in Richmond a few days ago from Goldsborongh with the Third North Carolina, Thirtieth Yirg~nia, Forty-fourth and Forty-ninth Georgia troops. I think it imnortant in view of this to hurry on trans- portation to Buruside. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. Skztement of the re-enforoements 8ent to General McClellan after his disembarkation upon the Peninsula, prior to the 15th day of June, 1862. a . 0 Q 4~ ~. 0 0 0 0~ 0 o~ ~- ad 0 +~ ,O 0~ 8 O,~ 0 a,A ~ ~ o0 0~4 00. 0 bLo ~ 0 ~4 ~ 0 -~ ~ -~ 0 84 General Franklins division 11, 332 270 846 12, 448 Troops sent by General Dixfrom Baltimore () (1 - -- - () -. t721 Troops in the Department of virginia. the headquarters of which 11,514 1,483 1,010 14, 007 were at Fort Monroe, taken from the report of General Wool, for May 31, 1862. General MeCaUs division... 9,514 262 2,487 12,263 32, 360 2, 015 4, 343 39, 441 * Notreported tTaken from the last return, before the 31st of May, 1802. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., December 31, 18(32. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately com- piled from the reports of Major-General McClellan, General Wool, and General IDix, which are now on file in this office. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. LORENZO THOMAS, MCCLELLILNS, June 16, 1862. Adjutant-General: I need imperatively the following new troops, and I beg that they be sent without delay: Two regiments more are required for General Dix; one regiment is required for Yorktown; from two to four are required for Williamsburg, the White House, and railroad guards. Events are See Part I, p. 1052 Page 231 CHAP. XXIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 231 showing the necessity of the troops here asked for. Please let me know by telegraph whether my request can be complied with. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- Generd. MCCLELLANS, June 16, 186211.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The following just received: HEADQUARTERS, Suffolk, Sunday Evening. Major-General MCCLELLAN: A deserter came into this post from Richmond. He left after the battle of Fair Oaks. He says they have sent the public records and a large amount of ammunition to Danville. Mrs. Jefferson Davis has moved intG North Carolina. He says Rich- inoud is strongly fortified, and they mean to fight to the last, and have about 130,000 men, but are on half rations, and the rank and file, many of them, anxious to get away. An Englishman who came in from there recently thinks they have 150,000 men. MANSFIELD, Brigadier-General. This corresponds with the accounts I have received from various sources. Please let me know when and which direction McDowells command will come. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 16, 18627 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have to reqnest that some improvement may be made by the Ord- nance Department in the fuses for the 20-pounder Parrott guns. Those now in use burn very irregularlyas likely to burst for 2,000 yards when cut for 800 as for 800 when cut for 2,000. The firing discourages us, as it encourages our enemies. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, [Major- General.] FoRT MONROE, June 16, 18629 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The telegraph wires have been extended to Norfolk, and I now have communication with that city and Suffolk. General Viele telegraphs congratulations on the completion of the line and on the improved feeling in Norfolk. General McClellan has extended my command to Yorktown, Gloucester, and Williamsburg. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General Page 232 232 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 182. 5 Camp Lincoln, Va., June 16, 1862. * * * * * * III. The Cavalry Reserve and the troops under Brigadier-General Stoneman are placed for the present under the orders of Brig. Gen. F. J. Porter, commanding Fifth Provisional Army Corps, and will at once be reported accordingly by a staff officer. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, - As8istant Adjutant- General. MCCLELLANS June 17, 1862A j. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON Secretary o~ War: We will not need the wagon bodies you allude to. Our cavalry yes- terday repaid the enemy for his raid of Friday night by surprising him at Ashland. Among other things retaken, a Bull Run wagon. Weather splendid. Heard this morning heavy and long-continued firing of heavy guns in direction of Fort Darling. Expect to know more about it soon. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, June 18, 1862-.10.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Several deserters state that troops have left Richmond to re-enforce Jackson; that the movement began on the 8th, when two battalions went; that a regiment of cavalry preceded them, going westward, but not known whether to Jackson or elsewhere. During the past week a considerable portion of Longstreets division is said to have followed, and two more batteries on 14th, the whole probably commanded by General Whiting. The batteries went by rail via Lynchburg. It is not known how the infantry went. I cannot vouch for the truth of this statement, but it seems certain that the belief in Richmond and among rebel troops is that the case is as stated. If re-enforcements have gone to Jackson, they are probably in considerable force, not less than 10,000. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Wa8hington, D. C., June 18, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Yours of to-day making it probable that Jackson has been re-enforced by about 10,000 from Richmond is corroborated by a dispatch from General King at Fredericksburg, saying a Frenchman just arrived from Richmond by way of Gordonsville met 10 000 to 15 000 th~ latter place to join Jackson. passing throu~ Page 233 ClAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 233 If this is true it is as good as a re-enforcement to you of an equal force. I could better dispose of things if I could know about what day you can attack Richmond, and would be glad to be informed, if you think you can inform me with safety. A. LINCOLN. MCCLELLANS, June 18, 1862. The PRESIDENT: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your dispatch of to-day. Our army is well over the Chickahominy, except the very considerable forces necessary to protect our flanks and communications. Our whole line of pickets in front runs within 6 miles of Richmdnd. The rebel line runs within musket-range of ours. Each has heavy support at hand. A geueral engagement may take place any hour. An ad- vance by us involves a battle more or less decisive. The enemy ex- hibit at every point a readiness to meet us. They certainly have great miumbers and extensive works. If 10,000 or 15,000 men have left Rich- inond to re-enforce Jackson it illustrates their strength and confidence. After to-morrow we shall fight the rebel army as soon as Providence will permit. We shall await only a favorable condition of the earth and sky and the completion of some necessary preliminaries. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. MCCLELLANS, June 18, 186211.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Colonel Averell has just returned from a scout to the Mattapony. A band of guerrillas he was in search of had left the day before. He de- stroyed the bridge, took a number of wagons and carts loaded with supplies for Richmond, destroyed a large amount of rebel grain, and took some important prisoners. As usual, he conducted the expedition most handsomely. Colonel Gregg made a handsome reconnaissance to Charles City Court-House and recovered some of the mules driven off by Stuart. I think we are about even with Stuart now. Am at a loss to understand the reported re-enforcements to Jackson, unless the enemy are in very great strength here. We will probably know more of the truth to- morrow. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HDQRS. HOOKERS DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp near Pair Oaks Station, Va., June 18, 1862. Capt. CHAUNCEY MCKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Army Gorps: The duty of obtaining the information desired by the major-general commanding in his communication of yesterday was assigned the Six- tocuth Massachusetts Regiment by General Grover. It was executed in fine style. A heavy picket was run against and they attempted to make a stand, but were driven from the forest. Colonel Wyman r Page 234 234 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL ports with a handsome number of killed and wounded. His loss, I should judge, has been 15 or 20. Three prisoners were taken. The district passed over is only swampy in places. Full reports will be furnished as soon as practicable. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Divtstan. [JUNE 18, 18~2.For Secretary of War to Speaker of the House of iRepresentatives in reference to the White House prbperty, on the Pamunkey, and subsequent reports and correspondence on this sub- ject, see Series III, Vol. II.] HEADQUARTERS CASEYS DIVISION, Captain SuYDAi~I, Poplar Hill, June 15, 1862. Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: It has been ascertained by Captain Keenan, commanding the cavalry on duty with my .division, that General Stuart, of the rebel service, with a body of 2,000 cavalry, is encamped between the New Market road and James River, about 6 miles from my position. I respectfully suggest that a force of 3,000 cavalry, with two pieces of flying artillery, be at once dispatched to report to me. I am of opinion, from the reports of my scouts and reconnoitering parties, that Stuarts position is one that may be attacked with a pros- pect of success. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. WASHINGTON, June 19, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Yours of last night just received and for which I thank you. If large re-enforcements are going from Richmond to Jackson it proves one of two things, either that they are very strong at Richmond or do not mean to defend the place desperately. On reflection, I do not see how re-enforcemeuts from Richmond to Jackson could be in Gordonsville, as reported by the Frenchman and your deserters. Have not all been seut to deceive? A. LINCOLN. MCCLELLANS, June 19, 186211.30 p. m. (Received June 20, 1.35 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: At this time I am obliged to leave part of McCalls division to guard my communications from the White House. I beg leave to ask if I a Page 235 ChAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 235 to expect any new regiments soon? Such troops could protect my rear and give me McCalls division entire. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HDQRS. HooIo~Rs DIVIsIoN, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp near Fair Oaks AS~tation~ Va., June 19, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac: I have the honor to report that from one of the forest trees a tolerably good view of the enemys field works in my front was obtained yester- day. They have a redoubt located near the railroad; one to command the Williamsburg old stage road, and another to command a succession of clearings which extend from Casey~s camp to their position, these reaching off from the camp in nearly a southwesterly direction. These redoubts appear to be connected with a continuous line of rifle pits, running almost perpendicular to the railroad. All of these field works are located on the western border of a wheat field, and directly in advance of a dense pine forest, in which is one of the rebel camps. From a slight elevation it can be observed that they extend a mile or more. Beyond that the view is obstructed. From the density of the forest this camp would not be observed except from a side view from the east. It has not been satisfactorily ascertained whether the redoubts are garnished with guns or not. For several days past I have been satisfied of the presence of a large number of troops in my immediate neighborhood, but it was only yes- terday that I had reliable information as to their probable number or the character and extent of the enemys defenses. This information was furnished me by Lieutenant-Colonel Potter, of the Seventy-first New York Volunteers, whose intelligence, activity, and zeal has been of great service since my division has had the honor to hold the advance of the army. The wheat field referred to is the first cleared field we come to after passing the forest in front of Caseys camp, and~ is about 600 yards wide. These field works were not visible from the wheat field on the 2d instant. Troops emerging from the woods will be exposed to terrible fire, to avoid which Wyman was directed not to permit his men to step outside the timber. I request that Private Libscom, a prisoner of yesterday, may be ex- amined critically, for much valuable information can be gathered from him. He was sent to headquarters this morning. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ flDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 136. Camp Lincoln, Va., June 19, 1862. I. The extra issue of whisky heretofore ordered will be immediately discontinued. II. All commanding officers are enjoined strictly to enforce the exist Page 236 236 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXflI. ing orders directing that hot coffee be served to the troops immediately after reveille. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. WASHINGTON CITY, June 20, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: We have this morning sent you a dispatch of General Sigel corrobo- rative of the proposition that Jackson is being re-enforced from Rich- mond. This may be reality and yet may only be contrivance for de- ception, and to determine which is perplexing. If we knew it was not true we could send you some more force, but as the case stands we do not think we safely can. Still, we will watch the signs and do so if possible. In regard to a contemplated execution of Captains Sprigg and Trip- lett the Government has no information whatever, but will inquire and advise you.* A. LINCOLN. MCCLELLANS June 20, 186210 j. m. Major WOODRUFF, Topographical Bureau: Send Prof. [G. C.] Schaefti~r to these headquarters immediately, with all the notes and memoranda he collected for Colonel Macoinb concerning the Mattapony, Pamunkey, James, Appomattox, and Elizabeth Rivers; also his notes about the Fredericksburg, West Point, Danville, Peters- burg, and Norfolk Railroads. If necessary, send him by a special boat. Tell him to be careful to~ bring everything; also any books and reports containing the information. By order of Major-General McClellan: A. A. HUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 20, 186210 p. m. Mr. FELTON Presiden Philadelphia and Baltimore Railroad, Philadelphia: Will you please send me by telegraph in cipher, and also by mail at once, all the information you have in ~regard to the bridges on the Charlottesville and Lynchburg, Richmond and Danville, Lynchburg aiid Burkesville, Richmond and Petersburg, and Seaboard and Roanoke Railroads, giving the heights, length, and nature of the structures. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. * Further correspondence in reference to Captains Sprigg and Triplett will appear in Series II Page 237 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 237 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, McClellans, June 20, 18621 p m. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Commanding, New Berne: How many troops could you bring to White House and leave every- thing secure in your present position, and what time would it require to get the disposable troops to Fort Monroe I What is the earliest moment you can move with your present transportation on Golds- borough I Answer at once. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. Answer. We can put 7,000 infantry in Norfolk in five days, but no artillery, cavalry, or wagons. We can land at a point on the Chowan to attack Petersburg with 7,000 infantry, twelve pieces of artillery, 250 cavalry, and enough wagons for ammunition and four days provisions in five days. We can move on Goldsborongh at sixty hours notice with 10,000 in- fantry, twenty pieces of artillery, five companies cavalry. From my present information I think we can take G-oldsborough and hold it for the present, although 13 miles of the railroad between here and Kins- ton have been destroyed. At all events we can go to Kinston and re- pair the railroad and bridges between here and there. We have already built the bridges over the Trent and l3atchelders Creek, and will proba- bly have to build one more bridge of 80 feet at Core Creek and one of 400 feet at Kinston, although the latter is not yet destroyed and we may save it. [A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General.] MCCLELLANS, June 20, 1862. (Received June 20, 7.10 p. in.) General J. W. RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: The Parrott ammunition heretofore furnished the 20-pounder Parrott guns sent to this army has proved unsatisfactory. The enemy thus far fire better than we can. The Schenkl ammunition we have had has however done well and I consider it of the highest importance that a large quantity of that kind be sent here immediately. I shall (lOubtless have occasion to use the 30-pounder Parrott guns I have, and I strongly advise that, if it can be procured, a good supply of Schenkl ammunition be sent forward for that caliber. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General Page 238 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAt. XXIIL Ab8tract from Return of the Army of the Potomac, Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding, for June 20, 1862. Present for duty. ~ , p. Command. ~ .d 51a .9 sin ~ 5. 0 ~ General staff U. S. Engineers (Duane) .. - Engineer Brigade (Woodbury) Division of cavalry (Cooke) Escort to headquarters (McIntyre) Provost guard (A. Porter) Total Second Army Corps (Sumners): General staff First Division (Richardsons) Second Division (Sedgwicks) Artillery (Bisrtlets) Total. Third Army Corps (Heintrelmans): General staff Cavalry (Averell) Reserve Artillery (De Hussy) Second Division (Hookers) Tksrrl Division (Kearnys) Total Fourth Army Corps (Keyes): General staff. Cavalry (Gregg) First Division (Conchs) Second Division (Caseys) Reserve Artillery (West) Total Fifth Provisional Army Corps (Fitz John Porters). General staff Division (Morells) Division (Sykes) Artillery Reserve (Hunt) Cavalry (Farnsworth) Total. Sixth Provisional Army Corps (Franklins): General stnff Division (Slocums) Division (W. F. Smiths) Cavalry (McReynolds) Total Advance guard (Sloneman) Quartermasters guard (Ingalls) Fort Morn oe, Va. (Dix) Division (McCalls) Total Grand total* 46 4 53 90 4 53 190 1, 259 2, 048 101 927 1,317 2, 087 102 972 46 251 1,462 2, 336 111 1, 095 57 288 1, 1559 2, 765 144 1, 3.10 255 4,525 4,672 5,303 6,243 -_ 11 386 380 14 . 11 11 7,685 8,145 8,742 10,743 8,764 8,681 9,7.6 11,521 341 355 380 4.0 12 18 46 791 16, 790 17, 181 18, 869 22, 735 11 . 11 12 28 723 751 799 871 14 364 378 422 449 18 156 8,986 8,976 11,097 13,091 10 364 7, 964 8, 323 9, 337 1:1, 051 12 773 18, O:i7 18, 428 21, 666 27, 474 40 7 24 375 248 15 669 619 7,919 5,042 341 15,941 7 643 8,314 5, 248 356 14, 568 8 701 9, 359 6,1580 483 17 151 10 798 11,906 11, 114 431 24, 329 7 9 20 36 3 3 3 493 10, 940 12, 011 12, 626 14, 798 24 268 5,477 5,745 6,441 7,950 85 2,023 2,108 2, 320 2, 76:3 lOS 42 629 671 720 819 891 19,069 20,535 22,110 26,333 112 10 . 10 10 10 . 393 8,853 9,246 9,841 11,077 18 401 8,807 9,308 10,330 12,843 22 44 797 841 871 981 . 848 18,557 19,405 21,052 24,911 40 5 59 62 86 94 . 51 1,050 1,0)3 1,213 1,461 453 8, 824 9, 246 10,11)1 11,025 382 9,132 9,501 9,776 12,263 22 891 19,065 19,902 21,176 24,843 22 5, 118 109,984 114, 691 127,327 156, 638 316 * See also Series I, Vol. V, p. 13. 23 Page 239 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 239 Statement of the comparative strength of the Army of the Potomac on the 18t day of April, 1862, and the 20th day of June, 1862. 4a ~ a ~.. en a ~ ~,a -~ ~t2 ~ a~ ,O bS i 0e -~ o,~ ~. a en eQ ~i3~ ~ bep~ bC~ b~ an 0 ~ ti;~. p. ~ b~ -~ E~ On the 1st day of April, 1862 1 136,444 8, 848 13,127 158, 419 On the 20th day of June, 1862 115, 102 12,225 29,511 156, 838 (Loss 21,342 1,581 Difference Gain... I..-. ~ 16, ~ ADTUTANT-GFINERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., December 31, 1862. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately com- piled from the morning report of the Army of the Potomac of tile 1st day of April and the 20th day of June, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assistant adjutant-general, Seth Williams, and no~v on file in this office.* E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, June 21, 186211.10 a. m. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Army of the Potomac, near Richmond, Va.: My attention has been called by the Secretary of War to the defective nature of the time fuses used with your 20-pounders. As all the paper time fuses used with the Army of the Potomac are made and carefully tested at the Washington Arsenal, I am at a loss to understand the nature of the defects referred to. Be pleased to state all the circum- stances of the failure, so that I may act understandingly, and I will use every means in my power to correct it. Mr. Schenkl is pushing work on the 20-pounder projectiles. The preparation of machinery will necessarily delay their delivery some days. I have this day ordered him to send you 5,000 30-pounder pro- jectiles with all possible dispatch. JAS. ~. RIPLEY, Brigadier-General. MCCLELLANS, June 21, 18622 p. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I would respectfully request thtjt no persons be permitted to visit White House or the corps of this army except upon strictly military duty. All the means of railway transportation are required to supply See also Series I, Vol. Y, p. 13 Page 240 240 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL the troops, and it is with the utmost difficulty that the object can be1 accomplished. The arrival of visitors also distracts the attention ot officers from their duties at a moment when their whole efforts are re- quired in attending to their duty. In the event of a battle or a mere skirmish the presence of visitors is a very serious inconvenience. I am not willing to be responsible for their safety. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Gommanding Army. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., June 21, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your telegrams received. All passes that have been granted by this Department are made subject to your regulation, so that your order to the master of transportation will prevent the passage of any one who has heretofore obtained a pass, and I have directed that none shall in future be given except to persons on military service. I am informed that the Sanitary Commission are freely giving passes, but without any sanction from the Department. You are authorized k make any regulation, however stringent, that will exclude persons not in the service from your lines. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS, VA., June 21, 18629.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The Richmond Dispatch of to-day has the following: MONTGOMERY, ALA., June17. General Beauregard and staff are here on their way to Richmond. We hear that a large portion of the Army of the Mississippi will soon follow the general. A sufficient force will be left with the invincible Bragg to check any advance which the vandals under General Halleck may attempt to make toward the interior. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, June 21, 186212 m. General RIPLEY: The supply of battery stores is rapidly becoming exhansted, and un- less orders for issue to Lieutenant Harris have been given, of which I have no knowledge, I have to request a renewal of the artillery sup- plies asked for heretofore in April and May. C. P. KINGSBURY. MCCLELLANS, June 22, 18624.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I am informed that General James has now cogipleted two batteries of bronze rifled guns and one battery of steel rifled guns, all 3.80-inch caliber Page 241 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241 These guns have been tried by officers in whom i[ have confidence, and I should be glad to have you order them for this army as early as practicable. I applied for, these guns during Mr. Camerons administration, but could not get them. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 22, 18621.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Some sharp attempts of the enemy last evening and night to drive in Hookers pickets. They certainly failed and were driven back, with what loss we cannot tell. Our loss 1 killed and 4 wounded. Nothing else of interest. Intercepted letters state that Beauregard was ex- pected in Richmond a few days since. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 22, 18624.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: James is not known as a manufacturer of guns, and it is not known that he makes any pretension to having invented one. Ames, of Chicopee, manufactures guns, and is the manufacturer of James pro- jectile, about the merits of which there are conflicting reports, and the purchase of which you declined to recommend last spring. You will recollect that these are the guns and projectiles bought last summer by the State of Illinois at an extravagant price, the job creating great scandal. Where are the guns to which your telegram refers I There is no proposal for their sale on the files of this Department. Who has offered them to you? EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MCCLELLANS, June 22, 18625.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: In my dispatch of to-day I omitted to ask you to have the proper amount of ammunition ordered with the James guns. If the guns are sent the ammunition must be procured from General James, as it is peculiar. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. 16 R RYOL XI, PT II Page 242 242 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXiiI. MCCLELLANS, June 22, 18627.25 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your dispatch of 4.30 p. rn. to-day received. The guns referred to are rifled cannon, which General Charles F. James claims to have in- vented as perfectly adapted to his patent projectile. They are manu- factured by Ames, of Chicopee, Mass. A member of my staff, who is a good artillery officer, experimented with these guns and James patent projectiles in December last, and pronounced them the best he had seen. They are highly recommended by other officers, and are said to have been the most efficient of all those used in, the siege of Fort Pulaski. We have experienced uXuch trouble with many of our new pattern projectiles, and my only object is to secure the best for the service. I have no recollection of having ever declined to recommend the purchase of these guns or projectiles, but I have, as I mentioned in my dispatch of to-day, a distinct remem- brance of having recommended the purchase of them in January last, and that Mr. Cameron declined to make the purchase. General James informed me that he has the guns now ready, with projectiles. With these remarks I leave the matter in your hands. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. Brigadier-General RIPLEY, MCCLELLANS, June 22, 1862. Chief of Ordnance: I am directed by Major-General McClellan to reply to your dispatch of yesterday. The fuses most complained of are the paper-case time- fuse, though in many instances the Bormaun fuse does not give the satisfaction we ought to expect. The paper-case fuses of short time say up to seven or eight secondsburn with proper regularity, but those of longer time are very uncertain~ twelve seconds often burning no longer than five or six seconds, and fifteen or sixteen seconds fre- quently proving of shorter time than either. This happens so often that it has occurred to me that careless mistakes have been made in marking the time on the outside of the cases. The 20-pounder Parrott projectiles are again working very badly. In very many cases they fail to take grooves, and pe form quite as uncertainly as they did at Wash- ington last SeptemberCaptain Benton will remember. Can it be pos- sible that the projectiles condemned at that time and turned into the arsenal are now accidentally reissued ~ Please let us have as much of Schenkl projectiles for our rifled guns of every description, siege as well as field, as possible. I will write by mail more at length to-day. WILLIAM F. BARRY, Brigadier- General, Chief of Artillery. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PROVISIONAL AuMv CORPS, Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 22, 1862. Brig. Gen. P. ST. GEORGE COOKE, Commanding Cavalry Reserve: GENERAL: I am directed by the commanding general to inform you that it is reported by a deserter that another raid is in process of prep Page 243 CHAP. XXIH.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 243 aration by the enemy, where or when to be made he could not say. General Reynolds reports that some camps opposite Meadow Bridge seem temporarily deserted, though left standing. The commanding general desires that you will take every means to obtain the earliest possible information of any movements the enemy may attempt. He wishes further that you should push your patrols to watch the roads crossing the Painunkey, and also to keep your command well in hand for prompt action in any quarter. He further directs that any informa- tion you may obtain should at once be communicated to these head- quarters. If any intimation of a movement beyond the I~amnnkey should be obtained, the general would like to have the patrols push their investigations across that river. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKK, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Lincoln, June 22, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMs, Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: In reply to the circular of June 19 I have the honor t@ state that the following acting signal officers have been exposed under fire while in the discharge of their duties during the present campaign: At the siege of Yorktown: First Lient. William S. Stryker, Twelfth Virginia Volunteers- First Lieut. William B. Roe, Sixteenth Michi- gan Volunteers; First Licut. N. Daniels, Third Wisconsin Volunteers First Lient. James S. Hall, Fifty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers; First Lient. Charles S. Kendall, First Massachusetts Volunteers; Second Lient. Frederick W. Owen, Thirty-eighth New York Volunteers; Sec- ond Lient. Daniel S. Tompkins, Fifth Michigan Volunteers; Second Lieut. Charles W. Keen, Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers; See- ond Lient. W. (I. McCreary, One hundred and second Pennsylvania~ Volunteers; Second Lient. George J. Clark, Sixty-second New York Volunteers; Second Lient. Charles H. Carey, Third Michigan Volun- teers; Second Lient. Alexander M. Wright, Third Pennsylvania Cay- airy; Second Lieut. F. W. Butler, Fifth New Hampshire Volunteers; Second Lieut. Israel Thickstun, Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers; Second Lient. A. B. Jerome, First New Jersey Volunteers; Secon Licut. E. A. Denicke, Cameron Rifle Regiment New York Volunteers; Second Licut. Henry L. Johnson, Fifth Connecticut Volunteers. At engagement at Lees Mill: First Lieut. Charles S. Kendall, First Massachusetts Volunteers; First Lient. George H. MeNary, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; Second Lieu 1. Isaac Beckett, . Fifty- sixth New York Volunteers; Second Lient. W. H. R. Neel, Pifty-fourtk [Ninety-Fifth] Pennsylvania Volunteers; Second Lient. Frederick Hor- ner, Sixth New Jersey Volunteers; Second Lient. N. Henry Camp, Fourth New Jersey Volunteers; Second Lient. Charles T. Dwight, First Excelsior Regiment New York Volunteers. At battle of Williamsburg: First Lieut. B. F. Fisher, Third Penn- sylvania Reserve Corps; First Licat. Charles Herzog, [Forty-first] Regi mm~ent De KaIb New York Volunteers; First Lient. Joseph Gloskosky, Twenty-ninth New York Volunteers; Second Lient. F. W. Marston, Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers; Second Lient. William H. R. Neel, Fifty-fourth [Ninety-fifth] Pennsylvania Volunteers Page 244 244 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. At battle of West Point: First Lient. Paul Babcock, jr., Seventh New Jersey Volunteers; First Lieut. D. E. Castle, Nineteciith Indiana Volunteers; First Lieut. Ernst Kuribaum, Fifty-eighth New York Volunteers; Second Lieut. John W. Dc Ford, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; Second Lient. Frederick W Owen T York Volunteers. . , hirty-eighth New At skirmish at Mechanicsville: First Lient. George H. MeNary, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; First Lient. D. E. Castle, Nine- teenth Indiana Volunteers; First Lient. Charles S. Kendall, First Massachusetts Volunteers; Second Lieut. Isaac Beckett, Fifty-sixth New York Volunteers. At battle of Hanover Court-House: First Lient. L. B. Norton, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; First Lient. George H. McNary, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; First Lieut. Joseph Gloskosky, Twenty ninth New York Volunteers; Second Lient. Frederick Homer, Sixth New Jersey Volunteers; Second Lieut. F. W. Marston, Fortieth Penn. sylvania Volunteers. At signal station near New Bridge: Second Lieut. J. C. Wiggins, Third New Jersey Volunteers; Second Lieut. N. Henry Camp, Fourth New Jersey Volunteers. At signal station with General Burns pickets near Goldings house: Second Lieut. E. A. Denicke, Cameron Rifle Regiment New York Vol- unteers. In each case the offieers above mentioned have performed their parts with commendable coolness and alacrity. The services rendered entitle the following officers to especial men- tion. For important duty faithfully performed in keeping up communica- tion day and night between the General Headquarters Army of the Potomac and the naval squadron in York River during the siege of Yorktown, for a period of twenty-eight days, the following-named officers: First Lieut. William B. Roe, Sixteenth Michigan Volunteers, in charge of signal station at headquarters, under fire April 30 at Bat- tery No. 1; Second Lieut. John W. De Ford, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, in charge of squadron detail and on flag-ship Wachu- sett, since captured on James River and now a prisoner of war at Salis- bury, N. C.; Second Lient. John F. Robbins, Ninety-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, at signal station at headquarters; First Lieut. Henry R. Glum, Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, on flag-ship Wachusett. For service in engagement at Lees Mill, maintaining communication across a field swept by the enemys fire: First Lieut. George H. Mc- Nary, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, station near battery; Second Lieut. Isaac Beckett, Fifty-sixth New York Volunteers, stationed with the advance; Second Lieut. Frederick Homer, Sixth New Jersey Vol- unteers, with the commanding general; Second Lient. N. Henry Camp, Fonrth New Jersey Volunteers, with the commanding general; & cond Lient. Charles T. Dwight, First Excelsior Regiment New York Volun- teers. No record of messages was kept, and I have no data by which to judge as to the importance of above service. Messages were trans- mitted for General McClellan and General Smith. For important service skillfully rendered at the battle of Williams- burg in opening, by the order of Major-General McClellan, communica- tion, at night and in the rain, between the gunboats lying in York River aiid the army bivouacked upon the field of battle, and also maintaining this communication so long as was necessary: First Lient. B. F. Fisher Page 245 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 245 Third Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; First Lieut. Henry B. 0mm, Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers; First Lient. Paul Babcock, Jr., Seventh New Jersey Volunteers; Second Lieut. William H. B. Neel, Fifty-fourth Ninety-Fifth] Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Second Lient. Charles T. Dwight, First Excelsior Regiment New York Volunteers. For important service at the battle of West Point, in establishing, during the engagement, signal communication between the headquar- ters of the general commanding the forces upon the field of battle and the gunboat flotilla, and so maintaining it as to direct, by order of Gen- eral Franklin, the movements of the gunboats and their range of fire upon the enemy: First Lieut. Paul Babcock, Jr., Seventh New Jersey Volunteers, on gnuboat Maratanza; First Lient. Ernst Kurlbaum, Fifty-eighth New York Volunteers, with General Slocum; First Lieut. ID. E. Castle, Nineteenth Indiana Volunteers, with General Franklin; Second Lieut. John W. Do Ford, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, on flag-ship Wachusett; Second Lieut. Frederick W. Owen, Thirty- eighth New York Volunteers, on gunboat Sebago. At the skirmish at Mechanicsville commuiiication was established under fire and information given to General Stoneman as to the move- ments and success of General Davidsons brigade; not of importance. For meritorious service and gallant conduct at the battle of Hanover Court-House, in opening and maintaining communication on the field of battle under artillery and musketry fire, directing the fire of our bat- teries upon the enemy, conveying information to General F. J. Porter as to the movements of our forces and of the enemy, and preventing (as officially reported) the fire of a United States battery from being turned by mistake upon one of our own regiments: Second Lient. F. W. Mars- ston, Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, with the advance; Second Lient. Frederick Homer, Sixth New Jersey Volunteers, at battery; First Lient. George H. McNary, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, near com- manding general; First Lient. Joseph Gloskosky, Twenty-ninth New York Volunteers, in advance; First Lieut. L. B. Norton, Tenth Penn- sylvania Reserve Corps, with commanding general; Second Lieut. Israel Thickstun, Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, on left flank. Second Lieut. Israel Thickstun, Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volun- teers, was stricken senseless by a fragment of a shell while reconnoiter- ing and reporting upon the enemys movements at signal station near Moores house Yorktown. First Lient. L. B. Norton, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, act- ing quartermaster and acting ordnance officer, has throughout the cani- paign discharged the onerous duties of his position with a care and faith- fulness which entitle him to commendation. First Lient. B. F. Fisher, Third Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, and Sec- ond Lieut. Henry L. Johnson, Fifth Connecticut Volunteers, in charge of parties from the date of the departure of this army from Washing- ton, have labored zealously to render them available for their duties. I am~ general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,* ALBERT J. MYER, Signal Officer, Major, U. S. Army. POPLAR HILL, June 23, 1862. Capt am SUYDAM, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: Immediately npon receipt of the telegram from the major- * See also Part I, p. 221 Page 246 246 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. general commanding ordering a cavalry reconnaissance down the Chick- ahominy a company properly instructed were sent out by me in the direction of Long Bridge and are now absent. Small parties were dispatched this morning at an early hour upon the roads to my left. One of them, under charge of Captain Keenan, accompanied by Lieutenant West, of my staff, has ju~t returned. They proceeded a distance of about 2 miles on the Charles City road in a westerly direction, then, turning to the left, followed the Quaker road, ~o called, a distance of about 6 miles, to within sight of James River. Nothing unusual was detected. Captain Smyth, in charge of another party, fell in with the enemys mounted pickets about 8 oclock this morning on a road running paral- lel with James River, and was fired upon. This point is a regular picket post of the enemy, who seems to have men there to observe and report the movements of the gunboats. I will take the liberty to remark that in my opinion it is a derelic- tion of duty on the part of the gunboats to permit the enemys pickets to skirt the shores of the river and his forces to lie quietly encamped within range of their guns. I am about sending a detachment under Captain Kee~an,in whose prudence and energy I ilace confidence, directly across the country to the river. He will soon be able to ascertain whether a force has passed or is passing. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SiLAS CASEY, Brigadier- General Volunteers, Commanding Division. HDQRS. HooKERs DIvIsIoN, THIRD ARMY Coups, Camp near Fair Oaks Station, Va., June 23, 1862. Capt. CHAUNCEY MCKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant. General, Third A my 61orps: By my roster it will be the duty of Sickles brigade to go on picket service at 4 oclock p. in. to-day. For the three last tours of duty of this character this brigade has been able to turn out but about 1,700 men. L deem this number as insufficient, and as my other brigades are ex- hausted in the performance of their own share of this duty, I respect- fully request that 600 men from some other camps may be ordered to re-enforce Brigadier-General Sickles fhr twenty-four hours, commencing at 4 oclock; and if this cannot be done from the Third Corps, I request that this application may be sent to general headquarters. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, 6ommanding Division. JuNE 23, 18628.45 p. m. Capt. CHAUNCEY MOKEEVER: Have this moment returned from the front. At one time our whole line of pickets was thrown well forward, and when night caine the right remained so, but the left, from causes which I do not know so well, but which Grover says he can explain to my satisfaction, was withdrawn. to I)1evellt being cut off by rebel regiments Page 247 Cui~. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 247 As soon as the fact was communicated, I gave directions for the line of pickets to be re-established and to advance. This was not done in season to bring up our left with the right, and fearing that the latter would be too much exposed from its advanced position I gave direc- tions to establish itself on our old line. Will forward Grovers report as soon as I receive it. Very little resistance was offered to the advance, though the pickets seemed to be numerous, bu~ avoided collision. I am of the impression that the enemy in front is weak to-day. From both of my lookouts we have not been able to see to exceed five regi- ments. The rebel camps are all standifig. We could see no troops in them or occupying their earthworks. Not a piece of artillery was fired on us nor was a piece seen by any one. Please forward this to General Marcy at once. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 23, 18624 p. m. Captain GOLDSBOROUGU, Flag- Officer, Fort Monroe: Have the gunboats which I asked you for some days since, and which you expected soon, yet arrived and been sent to White House? It is a matter of great importance that this additional protection should be given to our depots at the earliest practicable moment. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 23, 186210.50 p. m. General FITz JOHN PORTER, Commanding Fifth Corps: Your dispatch of 10.45 received. Yonr dispositions of your troops are approved by the commanding general. You will please hold a portion of your force in reserve to watch your right flank toward Walnut Grove, Bethesda Church, & c. Send patrols at once along the line of the Chickahominy to ascertain whether the enemy are building bridges, and if they are doing so semi a sufficient force of reliable infantry to attack them unexpectedly aimd drive them off. Send during the night any information you may gain, and at~ter day- break at least every half hour. If you are attacked be careful to state as promptly as possible the number, composition, and position of the enemy. The troops on this side will be held ready either to support you directly or to attack the enemy in their front. If the force attacking you is large the general would prefer the lat- ter course, counting upon your skill and the admirable troops under your command to hold their own againsh superior numbers long enough for him to make the decisive movement which will determine the fate of Richmond. Do miot lose sight of the absolute necessity of keeping me constantly and fully informed of everything which occurs in your front. R. B. MARCY, Chief of ASta~T Page 248 248 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIU. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 189. Camp Lincoln, Va., June 23, 1862. * * * * * * * VIII. Brig. Gen. Silas Casey will proceed without delay to the White House and take charge of that important depot, including the protec- lion of the railway aud telegraphic commuuications between that point and the Army of the Potomac. All the troops at the White House and upon the railway will be so disposed of by General Casey as liest to in- sure the safety of our supplies and their prompt and secure transmission to the army. He will furnish the guards required for the protection of the public property at the depots of the staff departments at the White House, but will not exercise any control over the management of these depots or over the officers connected with them. General Casey will assume the general charge of the hospitals at the White House. He will cause the convalescents who are unable to rejoin their regiments to be armed for defense in case of attack. He will exercise the utmost vigilance to discover malingerers and stragglers from the troops at the front who may be in his vicinity or who may endeavor to pass to the North, and will seize all such and send them to their regiments under guard. IX. Brig. Gen. John J. Peck, volunteer service, is assigned to the command of the division lately commanded by Brigadier-General Casey. X. Brig. Gen. A. P. Howe, volunteer service, having reported for duty at these headquarters, pursuant to instructions from the War Department, will report to Brigadier-General Keyes, commanding Fourth Corps, for assignment to the brigade heretofore commanded by Brig. Gen. J. J. Peck. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 24, 186212.30 a. m. General FITZ JOHN PORTER: The contrabands that came in to-day say that the froops are intend- ing to cross the Chickahominy the first stormy night about 20 rods below Meadow Bridge, under cover of the woods. Please have that section of the river well examined to-night. R. B. MARCY Chief of Ata.tT. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 24, 18621 a. m. Generals SUMNER, HEINTZELMAN, KEYES, SMITH: There are some indications of the enemys intending to cross the Chickahominy near Meadow Bridge to-night. You will please have your command under arms at daybreak this morning, and be ready to move if called upon. R. B. MARCY Chief of ~taff Page 249 CHAP. XXIII] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 249 JUNE 24, 1862. Capt. CHAUNCEY MOKEEVER: All the information from our lookouts to-day confirm my opinion of yesterday, that the rebel force in my front is considerably reduced. A portion of their camp has been removed to-day. The pickets have been unusually quiet all day. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 24, 18621 a. m. General SUMNER: The general commanding desires you to advance your pickets, if you have not already done so, in front of Richardson, on the right of the railroad, as far as the opening of it can be done, with the support of one brigade, without bringing on a general engagement. He wishes this done this morning, if practicable, under the conditions specified. If you advance your pickets inform General Hooker beforehand. R. B. MA~RCY, Chief of Stat!. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, June 24, 1862. General MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I was mistaken this morning; the skirmish was between Richardsons pickets and the enemy. It ended by throwing a few case- shot upon the enemy. I regret extremely to report that some of our pick- ets are behaving very badly, and it seems to me they are getting worse and worse. Please get an answer to my note in the night about advancing my pickets. I think it will bring on an engagement, for I do not see ho~ I can withdraw a brigade after it is engaged. I would respectfully suggest whether we cannot learn the position of the enemy better with intelligent scouts than by driving in their pick- ets before we are ready to make a general advance. Please answer by bearer. Very respectfully, E. V. SUMNER, Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, ~Jommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 24, 186212 m. General E. V. SUMNER: All that the commanding general wishes you to do is to connect th& left of your pickets with the right of Hookers as those of the latter advance. It will not be necessary for the center and right of your pickets to go forward at all, and the commanding general thinks a regi- ment opposite that part of your left line of pickets which advances will be sufficient to support them in case of resistance. He also think Page 250 250 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAH~N, VA. [CHA?. XXIII. that your center and right are more likely to be attacked than the left. You will not, therefore, take any of your troops to support Hooker without orders from these headquarters. R. B. MARCY Chief of & aff. GUNBOAT GALENA, Off Jamestown, June 24, 1862. iMaj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: The railroad bridge over Swift Creek is 250 feet long. I will attempt to destroy it when you wish. It should be done a short time before you make your attack. I shall try by night with row-boats. Can you in- ~dicate when to do it? JOHN RODGERS, Commander, U. AS. Navy. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, Camp Lincoln, June 24, 18626 p. in. ~4Dom. JOHN RODGERS: Dispatch received. If you can effectually destroy the bridge in ques- tion the sooner it is done the better. They cannot replace a bridge of that length in many weeks, and I am about to commence decisive measures. Circumstances force me to begin my attack at some dis- tance from the oxide.* In a few days I hope to gain such a position as to enable me to place a force above Balls and Drewrys Blnffs, so that we can remove the obstructions and place ourselves in communica- tion with you so that you can co-operate in the final attack. In the mean time please keep some gunboats as near Drewrys Bluff as pru- dence will permit. Within the next two or three days I hope to be within range of oyster.* By that time 1 hope to see you in person to arrange our movements. I will inform you fully how I progress. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. CAMP LINCOLN, June 24, 18626.30 p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Commanding Third Corps: Dispatch of 6 p. in. received.t If it is a possible thing, take advan- tage of the weakness of the enemy and push your pickets at least to the edge of the next clearing. Please give your personal attention to this, and arrange with General Sumner 5Q that he may maintain con- stant connection. I have been all over the right to-day and will open with heavy guns to-morrow. To-morrow night I hope to gain possession of the Garnett field, and by another day of the Old Tavern and some ground in ad- vance. It will be chiefly an artillery and engineer affair. Keep your command as fresh as possible, ready for another battle. * Words not deciphered; probably stand for River and Richmond. t Not found Page 251 CHAP. XXIII.] 251 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. I cannot afford to be without Heintzelman, Kearny, and Hooker in the last effort. I have satisfactory communications from the gunboat fleet in James River. They have done an immense amount of work on our right, but seem to be deceived as to our intentions. All looks well. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 24, 186211 p. m. General Wu~LIAM F. SMITH: The general commanding wishes you, when Porter commences firing to.morrow, to watch the effect, with your men ready, and if you should see an opportunity by which you think you can with safety advance, to communicate with Porter by signals, telling him where to direct his guns, and also inform him from time to time what effect they produce, y on perceive any. Myer will be (lirected, if he has not already done so, to establish sig- nal communication with Porter and you. Please inform General Frank- lin of this, that his division may be ready. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Sta~ff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 25, 186210.30 a. m. General FITz JOHN PORTER: Have your command under arms ready to move as circumstances may require. Fighting still in front of Hooker. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 25 [1], 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Everything very quiet to-day. I hope to open on enemys batteries to-morrow morning and to gain important advantages within forty- eight hoursnot however bringing us to Richmond, but somewhat nearer, and improving our position. It is again raining, but this will not probably defer movements. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Redoubt No. 3, June 25, 18625 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The affair is over, and we have gained our point fully and with but little loss, notwithstanding strong opposition. Our men have done al Page 252 252 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. that could be desired. The affair was probably decided by two guns that Captain De Ru~sy brought gallantly into action under very difficult circumstances. The enemy driven from his camps in front of this and all now quiet. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 25, 18625.20 p. m. General FITz JOHN PORTER: General McClellan says tell Porter that the work is done. Secesh driven from his camps. Success complete. I think we have occupied a new and advantageous line for our pickets. Stop firing unless you have some particular object. R. B. MARCY, Chief of StafJ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 25, 18625.25 p. m. General S. P. HEINTZELMAN: The general commanding desires you to regard your new line in front as merely a picket hue, and your intrenchments as your true field of battle. If your pickets should be hard pressed they should fall back to the intrencliments slowly. He also wishes you to cut out as much of the timber in the front of your works as possible to-night, so as to increase the range for the artillery. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Juwe 25, p. m. General SUMNER: The general commanding desires you to regard your new line in *ont as merely a picket line, and your intrenchments as your true field of battle. If your pickets should be hard pressed they will fall back slowly to the intreuchments, firing as they retire. He also wishes you to cut away as much of the timber as possible in front of your works, so as to give you a more open space on your front. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. GENERAL MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 25, 18627 p. m. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, New Berne, N~ C.: Reports from contrahands and deserters to-day make it probable that Jacksons forces are coming to Richmond and that a part of Beaure- gards force have arrived at Richmond. You will please advance on Goldsborough with all your available forces at the earliest practicabl Page 253 CHAP. Xxiii.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 253 moment. I wish you to understand that every minute in this crisis is of great importance. You will therefore reach Goldsborough as soon as possible, destroying all the railroad communications in the direction of Richmond in your power. If possible, destroy some of the bridges on the Raleigh and Gaston Railroad and threaten Raleigh. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. MCCLELLANS, June 25, 18628 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.: The following has just this moment received: A contraband who came into our lines under the fire of our guns to-day says he saw Beauregard and his troops arrive in Richmond. F. J. PORTER, Brigadier-General. This only serves to corroborate previous information received from several sources to-day. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, (Jommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 25, 18628.30 p. m 43-eneral SILAS CASEY, White House: Information has been received here that the enemy design attacking our communications. Please send out cavalry reconnoitering parties from Tunstalls Station to-morrow morning, both above and below the railroad, and direct them to give you timely notice of any approach of rebel forces toward your position, and report to these headquarters all important information you may get regarding the enemys movements. It is said that Jackson is coming from Gordonsville with the intention of attacking our right flank soon; therefore be vigilant. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. PORTERS HEADQUARTERS, June 25, 186210.30 p m. (Received June 262.22 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: I need some new regiments at once to re-enforce garrison of Yorktown and White House. Another division of old troops would be invaluable. Also a couple of new regiments of cavalry. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 254 264 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIlT. PORTERS HEADQUARTERS, June 25, 186210.40 p. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received June 263 a. in.) & cretary of War: The information I received on this side tends to confirm impression that Jackson will soon attack our right and rear. Every possible pre- caution is being taken. If I had another good division I could laugh at Jackson. The task is difficult, but this army will do its best, and will never disgrace the country. Nothing but overwhelming forces can defeat us. Indications are of attack on our front to-morrow. Have made all possible arrangements. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General.. JUNE 25, 1862. General MCCLELLAN, At Porters Headquarters: The following received. What shall I say to Generals Sumner an4 Heintzelman? R. B. MARCY Chief of I~taff. HEINTZELMANS, June 26, 18629 p. m. General M~uicv: General Robinson, after he had been re-enforced by a portion of General Birney~ brigade, recovered the little ground he had lost and drove the enemy back. We occupy our line of the forenoon, but the rebels are not quite so far back, and seem to be in considerable force in front of General Robinson. The enemy have four pieces of artillery on the Williamsburg road in position. Have advanced it half way across the clearing, and have a large infantry force to support it. There is a strong pros- pect of their attacking us in the morning. I think General Sumner should have at least a brigade to the left of the railroad to support his picket line, and should push his picket line forward to connect with mine. It is now near half a mile to the rear. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Brigadier-General. JUNE 25, 186211. Brigadier.General HEINTZELMAN: General McClellan desires that you hold the positiou you now have~ if it can be done without undue danger. His order for you to fall back was based on the dispatch from you, that you were too hard pressed. Re-enforcements are being sent .np, and General McClellan will start at once. A. V. COLBUIRN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THiRD CORPS, June 25, 1862. General PHILIP KEARNY: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that the instructions from Headquarters Army of the Potomac (inclosed) be fully carried out, and if the troops have to fall back that they avoid masking the batteries, so as to give them full play. Yours, respectfully, ~. MOSES, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 255 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 255 [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTOMAC, June 25, 1862. General HEINTZELMAN: If an attack is made in force on your line you must receive it in your~ intrencliments, your pickets only to give you warning, and only sup- ported sufficiently to prevent them from being driven in by a small force. If they are attacked by a large force they must at once fall back to the intrencliments, leaving full play for the artillery and mus- ketry in the intrenchments. One-half of your force should be l)laced in reserve, to strengthen points most vigorously attacked. The general commanding thinks that the mass of Palmers and Birneys brigades and De Hussys two guns should at once be moved behind your intrench- ments, provided you are confident that the enemy will attack in force in the morning, leaving merely the picket lines with rather more than usual support to hold the ground against any new attack by skirmish- ers, to observe the enemy. The general wishes to fight behind the intrenchments if attacked in force. Be sure and have the 8-inch howitzers all in position and well supplied with ammunition before morning; also the four Napoleon guns intended for the redoubts. Acknowledge at once. By order of General McClellan: H. B. MAHCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS POPLAR HILL, VA., June 25. 1862. General S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant-General Army of the Potomac: SIR: Much of the time since my arrival at this place has been de- voted to an examination of the White Oak Swamp, commencing on th& left of Coachs pickets. After crossing and recrossing at different sec- tions I am of the opinion that it affords but a slight defense against an enterprising enemy. Infantry can pass through at most points at this time, when the present rain has added much to the volume of water. Judging from the character of swamps in general, this one should offer greater obstacles and impediments toward its mouth, but the reverse is the case, the approaches being firmer and the bottom of harder material. Perhaps a number of dams would cause a sufficient overflow in the swamp to deter the enemy from attempts at crossing. Two hundred choppers are at work on an abatis and others in th& swamp for closing all fords and passes by obstructions. The slashing of the timber on the right and left, opening of some rifle pits, will strengthen the position. Works III connection with the others in the direction of the intrenched camp would of cours& strengthen this flank, but I have no force adequate for so long a line. The country across the swamp is open and quite favorable for cavalry.. Early information by mounted pickets is of the utmost importance. A large force of this arm should be at my disposalat least one regiment. Have been over the lines held by General Naglee. A small work or rifle pit across the railway should be made near the screen of timber. Have directed this and the slashing of timber in the vicinity of the lines Page 256 256 THE PENiNSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. The redoubt on the road from Bottoms Bridge is in a half-finished state. This should be strengthened and the timber cleared between it and the rifle pits at the Chimneys. The whole country across the Chickahominy and to the right of the railway should be patrolled frequently. I am, very respectfully, JOHN J. PECK, Brigadier- General, ~2ommanding Dirnswn. [Indorsement.] JUNE 25, 1862. Respectfully referred to the Headquarters Army of the Potomac. All the means in our power will be employed to guard and strengthen the position. E. B. KEYES, Brigadier- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PROVISIONAL ARMY Coups, Camp near New Bridge, Va., June 25, 1862. Brigadier-General COOKE, Commanding Cavalry Reserve: GENERAL: The commanding general directs me to say that, notwith- standing the heavy force that has been sent out, he desires you to keep your patrols out and push them as far as it is safe for them to go. With all parties that go out it will be well to send a few axes to fell trees on all the roads except the main road to prevent the passage of cavalry and artillery from Harris Station, but not to prevent your men from making good their own retreat in case of necessity. He desires that you will cause all bridges to be destroyed except the one across the Totopotomoy, leading to Hawes Shop, and others that may be neces- sary in case of retreat, and to close up all roads and destroy those bridges in case they have to retire. Have the road leading to Pole Green Church closed up. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant- General. GALENA, June 25, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Dispatch received; night. Gunboats and false attack on City Point and on battery above barriers part of plan. Otherwise row-boats would be destroyed. Nothing else can get there. Four thousand troops in vicinity of Petersburg, and pickets everywhere. Execution must be prompt or a division would come from Richmond. Positive official in- formation showing bridge 250 feet long; private, from 50 to 80 (about 50) high. The banks above command our decks. Men screened by trees fire and disappear before we can reply. An intolerable annoy- ance. Horse artillery put nine shot through the Jacob Bell and got off before assistance could arrive. We can fight when needed, but we cannot be in the narrow part of the river idle Page 257 CHAP. XXIII. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 257 Panther,* on right or west bank of river, has heavy guns. Both Lides must be taken before we can work at removing obstructions. JOHN RODGERS. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 26, 18629 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: A contraband servant in the Twentieth Georgia came in this morn- ing, and confirms in a remarkable manner the story of Jackson being on our flank and his intention of attacking our communications. He also says eight regiments went to re-enforce Jackson last night near Hanover Junction. Other information shows there is a large force at the Junction. There is no doubt in my mind now that Jackson is com- ing upon us, and with such great odds against us we shall have our hands full. No time should be lost if I am to have any more re-enforcements. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, June 26, 186210.20 a. m. General JOHN A. Dix: There are good reasons to believe that Jackson has come down to the vicinity of Hanover Court-House, and has been joined by forces from Richmond for the purpose. of attacking our communications. It would be well to have Van Alen and Colonel Campbell on their guard. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, VA., June 26, 186212 m. Hon. B. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.: The affair of yesterday was perfectly successful. We hold the new picket line undisturbed. All things very quiet on this bank of the Chickahominy. I would prefer more noise. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, June 26, 18622.45 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: I have the honor to forward the following telegraph correspondence between Flag-Officer Goldsborough and one of my staff officers: *Cipher; probably for battery. 17 R RVOL XI, PT II Page 258 258 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Ca& r. XXIII HEADQUARTERS Ansir OF TUE POTOMAC, June 23. Flag-Officer GOLDSEOROUGH, Commanding Naval Station, Fort Monroe: Quite a number of vessels loaded with provisions and foragewill leave the Pamunkey River within a day or two for James River. The general commanding desires that; these vessels be convoyed up the James, and be placed in charge of the gunboats now in that river near City Point or at some secure place near there. STEWART VAN VLIET, Brigadier-General. NORFOLK, June 259.30 a. m. Brigadier-General VAR VLIET: Yonr telegram dated 23d was received last night. Its wording is so inundatory that I desire to ask you if it is intended as an order from your general commanding to me. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp Lincoln, June 25, 1862. Flag-Officer GOLDSBOROUGH, Norfolk: Your telegram just received. I am sorry you should consider my telegram as man- datory, as it was certainly not so intended. The commanding general merely desired your co-operation in carrying out an important duty. The general is now in front, where a sharp fight is going on, or I should submit your telegram to him to be answered. STEWART VAN VLIET, Brigadier-General. I would state that it was not my intention to give an order to Flag- Officer Goldsborough, but merely to request his. co-operation in carry- ing out a measure upon the success of which the safety of this army might depend. As the flag-officer appears so ready to take exceptions to my requests I beg that he may receive positive orders not only to convoy those supply vessels up James River, but also to cO~Operate with this army 80 far as is in his power. GEO. B. McCLELLAN Major-General, Commanding. WASHINGTON CITY, June 26, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: I am informed by General King, at Falmouth, that some of McCalls cavalry are still there, and expect to leave there to join you to-morrow. A dispatch from King, containing the statement of a contraband just received, has been forwarded. Please inform me where you directed McCalls force to be landed and to what point you desire any other force to be sent. EDWIN M. STANTON, A9e6retary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 26, 18627.10 p. m. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: The re-enforcements will be sent to the place you request. We shall have every confidence in your ability to drive Jackson back, and wil Page 259 CHAP. huh.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25ff lose no time in aiding you. My last telegram apprised you of what is being done here. With every wish for your success and good fortune (and I have never had any other feeling), I remain, yours, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON & eretary of War. WASHINGTON, June 26, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your three dispatches of yesterday in relation to the affair, ending with the statement that you completely succeeded in making your point, are very gratifying. The later one of 6.15 p. in., suggesting the probability of your being overwhelmed by 200,000, and talking of where the responsibility will belong, pains me very much. I give you all I can, an(l act on the pre- suinI)tion that you will do the best you can with what you have, while you continue, ungenerously I think, to assume that I could give you more if I would. I have omitted and shall omit no opportunity to send you re-enforcements whenever I possibly can. A. LINCOLN. P. S.General Pope thinks if you fall back it would be much better toward York River than toward the James. As Pope now has charge of the capital, please confer with him through the telegraph. PORTERS HEADQUARTERS, June 26, 18627.40 p. m. ion. E. M. STANTON, (Received 10.30 ~. in.) & cretary of War: A very heavy engagement in progress just in front of me. McCall and two brigades of Morells are fighting gallantly against superior numbers, so far with marked success. There is no longer any doubt as to the strength of attack on this the left bank of the Chickahominy. My men are behaving superbly, but you must not expect them to con- test too long against great odds. The engagement is very serious, and is just below Mechanicsville. You may rely upon this army doing all that men can do. I still keep communication with White House but it m moment, and I cannot prevent it. , ay be cut any GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 26, 18627.50 p. m. Generals SUMNER, HEINTZELMAN, KEYES, HOOKER, SMITH: General McClellan just this moment informs me that McCall and two brigades of Morell are hotly engaged near Mechanicsville, so far with marked success. Secesh in large force, but badly beaten. Inform the troops on your side of the river. Please communicate this to your troops. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff Page 260 260 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXHI. PORTERS HEADQUARTERS, June 26, 18628 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON Secretary of War: Engagement still continues with great vigor. The enemy have not gained a foot, and McCall is doing splendidly. He is showing that his division is equal to ~he veterans of the Army of the Potomac. Rebel force very large, but our position good, and our men as brave as can be. The stragglers are all to the rear of Morells men. Jnst at McCalls. Dispatch as to re-enforcements this moment read. I thank you for them. I am rejoiced that the troops in front of Washington are to be l)laced under one command. Keep at that and all will be well. I will answer for it that this army will do all that the country ex- pects of it. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Commanding. PORTERS HEADQUARTERS, - June 26, 18629 p.m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The firing has nearly ceased. impediments on the other side ready for anything to-morrow. Please see that Commodore Goldsborough complies promptly with my request. Victory of to-day complete and against great odds. I almost begin to think we are invincible. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. I have nearly everything on the way of the Chickahominyand hope to be WASHINGTON CITY, June 26, 1862. Major-General DIX, Fort Monroe: Please give a statement of the forces you have forwarded to General McClellan, specifying, first, those sent by you from Baltimore; second, those sent since you entered upon your present command. State also what nnmber and description of force you still have in your command and how employed. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: FORT MONROE, June 26, 18027.30 p. m. (Received 11 p. in.) The regiments sent by me to General McClellan from Baltimore were the Fifth New York and time Second Delaware. Since I took command here I have sent him the First, Second, Seventh, Tenth, Twentieth, aiid One hundred and first ~ew York, the Sixteenth and Twenty-ninth Massachusetts, and the First Michigan Volunteers, all well-drilled regi- ments. I have also sent him from here five companies of cavalry an Page 261 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDINOE, ETC.UNION. 261 a battery of regular artillery. I have at Fort Monroe 300 artillery, armed only with sabers, 222 infantry, and 18 field and staff; in all, 540; at Camp Hamilton and Hampton, 1,819 infantry and 90 cavalry; in all, 1,909; at Fort Wool and Sewells Point, 254 infantry; at Norfolk and Portsmouth, 2,254 infantry, 309 mounted riflemen, and 80 artillery; in all, 2,643; at Suffolk, 2,769 infantry, 134 artillery, 412 cavalry, and staff, 10; in all, 3,325; at Yorktown and Gloucester, 1,319 infantry, 335 cav- alry, and staff 4; in all, .1,658; at Williamsburg, 466 cavalry; and at Newport News, 84 cavalry and 144 artillery; in all, 228. My whole force is 11,023, nearly one-third raw troops. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 26, 1862. Brigadier-General VAN VLIET, Chief Quartermaster, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: It is proposed to send troops from Alexandria to the Pamnukey. You will please dispatch, with all possible speed, steam vessels, or vessels towed by steam, to move a division of 5,000 menartillery, infantry, cavalry, and baggage trainsfrom Alexandria. As dispatch is of the utmost importance, much should be sacrificed to collect ample means for this movement. The transportation available here is about enough for 3,000 men, without horses or baggage or artillery, and will be at Alexandria to-morrow. It is supposed that within forty-eight hours you can have a portion of the vessels now within the Department of Virginia for service at Alexandria. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 26, 186211.15 p. m. M. C. MEIGS: It is all-important to send infantry here at once. We have an abun- dance of artillery. Please send every infantry soldier you can raise. I will have an abundance of transportation at Alexandria in the short- est possible time. We have had a very severe battle to-day, and the result is satisfactory. I presume that it will be renewed in the morning. VAN VLIET. U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Norfolk, Va., June 26, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: SIR: I beg to assure you that everything in my power shall be done to further your reasonable requests, and this too with great pleasure on my part. I took it for granted that you had not even seen General Van Vliets telegram to me. To afford you any unexpected assistance I must be consulted before- hand, so as to make arrangements accordingly, as I keep all the vessel Page 262 262 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cuir. XXIIL under my command constantly employed, except those undergoing re- pairs. IL M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag- Officer. U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Norfolk, Va., June 26, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Commander Rodgers is under orders from me to execute an exceed- ingly important and delicate duty, requiring his whole attention. He must therefore undervalue his services, or the object to be accomplished, if he thinks that he can, before that duty is discharged, leave his station for a day or two without detriment. Before consenting to his proposi- tion to visit you I must hear further from him. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer. NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 26, 18629.27 p. m. Flag-Officer GOLDSEOROUGH, Commanding North Atlantic Squadron: General McClellan has forwarded the telegraphic correspondence be- tween yourself and General Van Vliet, requesting that a convoy should be given certain transports. While the Department does not approve the tone and address of General Van Vliets dispatch, it desires that you will not permit it to interfere with the public service, but that you will order a convoy for the transports to City Point, and that you will cordially co-operate with the army in its onward movement. Very respectfully, GIDEON WELLES. WRITE HOUSE, June 26, 18629 p. m. (Received June 2710.20 a. in.) Brig. Gen. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: in obedience to orders just received from Van Vliet, quartermaster, Army of the Potomac, I send you the following list of vessels that were sent to Fredericksburg, by orders of Mr. Tucker, for transporting McCalls division: Steamer Donaldson, carries 700 men, 8 horses; Thomas Jefferson, 700 men; Massachusetts, 650 men, 10 horses; Columbia, 750 men; John Brooks, 1,200 men, 30 horses; Canonicus, 800 men; Arrowsmith, 750 men; Agnes (since burnt), 500 men, 4 horses; Hero, 900 men, 20 horses; Catskill, 00 men; North America, 100 men and 25 horses. In addition to the above-named steamers eight schooners were sent,, carrying 450 horses. There is now lying at this point subject to orders enough steamers to carry 3,000 men and schooners to carry 800 horses. There has been recently sent a great many craft, both sail and steam, to Fort Monroe. The following-named steamers are here in service of the Sanitar Page 263 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 263 Commission: State of Maine, Daniel Webster, Kennebec, John Brooks, Louisiana, and Vanderbilt. They will carry about 700 men. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-Camp. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, NORFOLK, VA., June 27, 186211 a. rn. & eretary of the Navy: I beg the Department to be assured that I will not permit the igno- rance or impertinence of any Army officer to interfere for a moment with my duty to the Government. I am well aware of the crisis at Rich- niond and of the absolute necessity of prompt co-operation on my part with General McClellan. Immediately on the receipt of General Van Vliets telegram, notwith- standing its exceptionable tone and address, I took measures to carry out everything it required and at the earliest possible moment gave orders accordingly. I had supposed, in addressing General Van Vliet upon the subject of his telegram, that General McClellan knew nothing of its wording, but as it now appears to have met his approval, I beg to express the hope that the War Department will enjoin upon him the propriety of inculcating better official manners of addressing me, as his eqnal in rank, and, last of all, not permitting an officer under his command to address me as a subordinate and refuse to confer upon me the denomination given me by law. General McClellan, as I under- stand from one of his telegrams to me, wishes the Navy Department to give me such orders as will secure a prompt compliance with any reason- able request he may make; he of course to be the exclusive judge of reasonableness. This, in effect, is asking to put the vessels of this squadron subject to his disposition. There is, I regret to say, an evident dhposition on the part of various Army officers to override and disparage the Navy, and it is high time a stop should be put to a feeling at once so ridiculous and puerile. I scarcely need add that all the wishes of the Department about convoy, & c., have been fully anticipated, and that I will most cordially and cheerfully co-operate with the Army on all occasions to crush the enemy. I only demand to be treated With the respect due to my rank, position, and responsibilities. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag- Qffioer. Jui~ 27, 18624.20 a. m. General WILLIAMS: I am instructed by General Keyes to report that I have five regi- ments, numbering about 2,000, between Bottoms Bridge and the rail- road bridge; that I have three pieces of artillery on the railroad, com- manding the bridge, and five pieces at Bottoms Bridge, behind an embankment and rifle pit, within 100 feet of the creek. Having destroyed the upper bridge and prepared to remove the planking of the lower, would it not be well to send me another bat- tery? And if not otherwise engaged send Barnard to go over the ground with me. Very respectfully, HENRY M. NAGLEE, Brigadier- General Page 264 264 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. JUNE 27, 186~6 a. m. Capt. CITAUNCEY MOKEEVER: Am just in from the front. Have placed Abercrombies brigade on the line of advanced pickets and that of Sickles in charge of the lines of defense. On my left and Kearnys front I found the line estab- lished far inside of our old line. As this was done by troops not of my command, and not knowing by whose instructions they were acting, I had no remedy. Please say to the general that I have 100 rounds of ammunition to the man, except in Grovers brigade, where they have but 90. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, commanding DivI8zon. MCCLELLANS June 27 Hon. E. M. STANTON, , ,1862.10 a. m. Secretary of War: The night passed quietly. During it we brought all wagons, heavy guns, & c.. to this side, and at daybreak drew in McCalls division about 3 miles. This change of position was beautifully executed under a sharp fire, with but little loss. The troops on the other side are now well in hand, an(l the whole army so concentrated that it can take ad- vantage of the first mistake made by the enemy. White House yet undisturbed. Success of yesterday complete. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. Hon. E. M. STANTON, MCCLELLANS, June 2712 in. Secretary of War: My change of position on other side just in time. Heavy attack now being made by Jackson and two other divisions. Expect attack also on this side. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. MCCLELLANS, June 27, 18621 p. in. Hon. B. M. STANTON, (Received 3 ~. in.~ Secretary of War: Your dispatch of noon received. I thank you for it. We are con- tending at several points against superior numbers. The enemy evince much desperation, but as we have no choice but to win, you may be sure that we will do all that can be expected. Thus far we have been successful, but I think the most severe struggle is to come. The enemy neglect White House thus far and bestow his whole attention on us. if I am forced to concentrate between the Chickahominy and James, I will at once endeavor to open communication with you. All re-en- forcements should for the present go to Fort Monroe, to which point I will send orders. It is absolutely certain that Jackson, Ewell, and Whiting are here. This may be the last dispatch I send you for some time Page 265 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC UNION. 26~ I will beg that you put some one general in command of the Sihcnau- doah and of all troops in front of Washington for the sake of the country. Secure unity of action and bring the best men forward. Good- by, and present my respects to the President. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS, June 27, 18623 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have been fighting nearly all day against greatly superior num- bers. We shall endeavor to hold our own, and if compelled to fall back~ shall do it in good order, upon James River, if possible. Our men fight like veterans, and will do all that men can do. if we have to fall back on James River, supplies should be passed up to us under protection of the gunboats as rapidly as possible. McClellan has telegraphed. you several times to-day. You may rely upon it the rebels are concentrating their greatest eWorts at this juncture. MARCY, Chief of Sta. CAMP LINCOLN, June 27, 18624.30 p. m. General FITz JOHN PORTER, L1ommanding iF~fth Corps: Your dispatch of 4.10 received. Send word to all your troops that their general thanks them for their heroism, and says to them that he is now sure that nothing can resist them. Their conduct and your own has been magnificent, and another name is -added to their banners Give my regulars a good chance. I look upon to-day as decisive of the war. Try to drive the rascals and take some prisoners and guns. What more assistance do you require? Ever yours, MCCLELLAN. CAMP LINCOLN, June 27, 18625.5 p. m. General FITz JOHN PORTER: I am ordering up more troops. Do your best to hold your own and let me know constantly the state of affairs and what you require. D~ you need more batteries ~ You must hold your own until dark. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Jlliajor-Gemeral. JuNE 27, 18625.56 p. m. Capt. CHAUNCEY MCKEEVER: Have just returne(l from the front, where we have nothing but a stampede since I saw you there, owing to the behavior of the troops occupying tlie picket line. ~The first shot from a rebel was sufficient to start regiments. In order to preserve quiet to-night, if practicable, I ordered the Fifty Page 266 266 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIU. fifth New York Regiment from the forest, and for it not to return there. I cannot rely on troops I have seen from General Couchs division for any assistance should an advance be made on my front. Of this the spectacle of to-day has fully convinced me. The unusual activity of the rebels, the balloon ascension this morning, the shelling of the woods this evening all along my front, and the display of an unusual force this afternoon indicate that they have it in mind to advance. If so, I should have not less than three brigades to spring to the defenses; now I can be whipped before the reserve will get up. De Russys battery is also gone when there can be no place at which it is so much needed, as there are so many approaches to my position. I wish these suggestions to be well considered. The problem sub. mitted for my opinion is very unlike the one which exists; in fact, I find Casey was whipped in detail. I desire to avoid such a disaster, Another musketry fire has broken out in front, but I really do not know whether it all comes from my troops, the pickets, or not. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier.General, Commanding Division. JUNE 27, 18626 p. m. General S. WILLIAMS: The enemy have watched us very closely since 1 p. in., and opened upon us with one gun, rather as a feeler. He is very industrious, and is studying well our position. Move on my left at the railroad. Think the enemy in some force, but I have no evidence of it. My picket line is very long, and our position we will do all in our power to hold, but 2 miles is heavy and very fatiguing duty. I shall report all changes. HE1~RY M. NAGLEE, Brigadier. General. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 27, 18628 p. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Have had a terrible contest. Attacked by greatly superior numbers in all directions on this side~ we still hold our own, though a very heavy fire is still kept up on die left bank of Chickahominy. The odds have been immense. We hold our own very nearly. I may be forced to give up my position during the night, but will not if it is possible to avoid it. Had I 20,000 fresh and good troops we would be sure of a splendid victory to-morrow. My men have fought magnificently. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. JuNE 27, 18628.55 p. m. Capt. CHAUNCEY MCKEBVER: The last attack was all along the line of pickets,in my front, and of course they were driven in. Enough is already known of our move- inents by the enemy to enable them to penetrate our object. Thi Page 267 Cuir. XXIII] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 267 being the case, to thwart it there can be but one point of attack; that is on or near our left. JOSEPH HOOKER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Dirision. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE POTOMAC, June 27, 1862. Flag-Officer GOLDSBOROUGH: I desire you will send some light-draught gunboats at once up the Chickahominy as far as possible, and also that you will forthwith in- struct the gunboats in the James River to cover the left flank of this army. I should be glad to have the gunboats proceed as far up the river as may be practicable, and hope they may get up as far as the vicinity of New Market. We have met a severe repulse to-day, having been attacked by greatly superior numbers, and I am obliged to fall back between the Chickahominy and the James River. I look to you to give me all the support you can in covering my flank, as well as in giving protection to my supplies afloat in James River. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Gommanding. U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, Norfolk, Va., June 27, 18623.40 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Headquarters Army of the Potomae: SIR: In reply to your telegram of this date, just received, I beg to assure you that I will with great pleasure give every aid in my power in forwarding and protecting the vessels to which you allude. By the mail of to-day I wrote you a letter. I beg also to congratu- late you and my friend General Hooker on gaining the point you had in view so completely two days ago. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer. NORFOLK, June 27, 18629.30 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: SIR: I will dispatch a tug instantly up James River, with orders for the two light-draught gunboats to go up the Chickahominy without a moments delay. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer. MCCLELLANS, June 27, 18621.20 p. m. Commodore GOLDSBOROUGH: I have ordered vessels with supplies to be sent up James River. As it may be very important for us, I will thank you to give any aid in your power to forward and protect these vessels to the vicinity of your gunboats, ~where they will be protected from the enemys guns. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Page 268 268 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. ~XLH. CAMP NEAR RICHMOND, VA., June 27, 1862. Capt. W. E. STURGES, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: SIR: I have the honor to report that while in command of my regi- ment on picket, at 3 p. m. yesterday, I was detailed as division officer of the day. As soon as l)racticable I reported at division headquarters for instructions; after which I visited th~ different pickets on this front. While engaged in that duty I received a communication from General Kearny, directing me to report immediately to General Hooker, with a note requesting that officer to relieve the two regiments of this divis- ion doing picket duty on General Hookers front; to which General Hooker assented, and informed inc that he had given General Aber- crombie orders to relieve all of the regiments of Kearnys division occupying his (Hookers) front. This conversation occnrred between 7 and 8 oclock p. m. I then returned to the outpost. After waiting for an hour or more, and no relief for our pickets, I, in company with Colonel Egan, visited our lines on the right. After passing the For- tieth New York, and at some distance to the rear, I discovered the Long Island Volunteers. On making inquiry of the commanding officer in regard to his position at that point he informed me he was doing picket duty; that he was sent to relieve Birneys brigade. I in- formed him that no part of Birneys brigade had been relieved, and advised him to reieve the Fortieth New York, in accordance with in- structions given him. He declined, on the ground that he had been placed there to hold that position, and could not change it except by orders from General Abercromnbie. The position occupied by the Long island Volunteers was in the open field in front of Hookers division and about 400 yards to the left of Hookers redoubt and near the woods. This conversation occurred between 11 and 1~ oclock p. m. I then sought General Abercrombie, who informed me that he could not relieve any of the regiments without instructions from General Hooker. I then sent you a communication containing a statement of the difficulties I encountered in getting the proper regiments relieved. About 1 oclock a. m. I received a communication from General Kearny, directing me to state to General Hooker that unless the regiments were relieved in an hour, he (Kearny) would relieve them and order them to camp. In accordance with these instructions I relieved the Fifty-sev- enth Pennsylvania and Fortieth New York from duty on Hookers. front about 3 p. m. The Fortieth New York was sent to camp; the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania then relieved the Thirty-eighth New York, who also returned to camp. General Hooker soon after the relief of the above regiment discov- ered their absence and immediately detailed others to fill their places. The whole line daring my tour was quiet. I was relieved this morning by Colonel Hays, Sixty-third Pennsylvania. I am, sir, your obedient servant, J. H. HOBART WARD, Golonel Thirty-eighth Regiment, Dicision Officer of the Day. The report of the position of the l)ickets iii front of the division was rendered this morning. NORFOLK, June 28, 18621 a. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Just received your second telegram upon the subject of the light Page 269 269 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. draught gunboats going up the Chickahominy and covering the left flank of your army. Without a moments delay instructions shall be communicated to Commander Rodgers to comply immediately, with all you desire. L. lvi. GOLDSBOROUGH, Flag-Officer. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, June 28, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Save your army at all events. Will send re-enforcements as fast as we can. Ot. course they cannot reach you to-day, to-morrow, or next day. I have not said you were ungenerous for saying you needed re-enforce- inents. I thought you were ungenerous in assuming that 1 did not send them as fast as I could. I feel any misfortune to you and your army quite as keenly as you feel it yourself. If you have had a drawn bat-, tie or a repulse it is the price we pay for the enemy not being in Wash- ington. We protected Washington and the enemy concentrated on you. Had we stripped Washington, he would have been upon us be~ fore the troops could have gotten to you. Less than a week ago you notified us that re enforcements were leaving Richmond to come in front of us. It is the nature of the case, and neither you nor the Government are to blame. Please tell at once the present condition and aspect of things. A. LINCOLN. P. 5.General Pope thinks if you fall back it would be much better toward York River than toward the James. As Pope now has charge of the capital, please confer with him through the telegraph. HEADQUARTERS ARMY Coups, Fort Monroe, Va., June 28, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Department Virginia: GENERAL: Our fast steamers are all employed, and I send to the Chickahominy the armed steam-tug C. P. Smith, which has completed the opening of the navigation of the Nanseinond River. Captain Heine, who has performed this duty very creditably, will bear this dispatch to you if it is possible by any efl~rt to reach you. Please send him back with instructions as to the manner in which I shall communicate with you. Commodore Goldsborough has been with me two hours, and no effort will be spared to support you at all points. I will open a regular com- munication with you by steam the moment I hear from you. I have a dispatch from the President expressing an earnest desire that I should reach you with a message, that I may know your wants. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DLX, Major- General Page 270 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. 270 (c~r. xxiii. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, June 28, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, 8eerctary of War: Your dispatch and that of President received. Jackson is driving in my pickets, & c., on other side of the Chickahominy. It is impossible to tell where re-enforcements ought to go, as I am yet unable to predict result of approaching battle. It will probably be better that they should go to Fort Monroe and thence according to state of affairs when they arrive. It is not probable that I can maintain telegraphic communications more than an hour or two longer. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. Gral. WAR DEPARTmENT, General D~: Washington, D. 0., June 28, 1862. Communication with McClellan by White House is cut off. Strain every nerve to open communication with him by James River, or any other way you can. Report to me. A. LINCOLN. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 28, 1862. Flag.Officer GoLDsBOROUo.H, Fort Monroe: Enemy has cut McClellans communication with White House and is driving Stoneman back on that point. Do what you can for him with gunboats at or near that place. McClellans main force is between the Chickahominy and the James. Also do what you can to commu- nicate with him and support him there. A. LINCOLN. FORT MONROE, Ju,w 28, 1862-..--3.30 p. m. Hon. ABRAHAm LINCOLN: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your telegram to-day. I knew of General McClellans position last night, and sent up orders for gun. boats to go up Chickahotniny to protect the generals left flank and guard vessels with supplies. General Dix and myself will do every- thing in our power to communicate with General McClellan and to keep a communication with him open up the James River. L. M. GOLDSBOROUGII, Commodore. WASHINGTON CITY, June 28, 1862. General BURNSIDE: I think you had better go with any re-enforcements you can spare to General McClellan. A. LINCOLN Page 271 271 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. WASHINGTON CITY, June 28, 1862. Major-General BUENSIDE, New Berne, via Fort Monroe: We have intelligence that General McClellan has been attacked in large force and compelled to fall back toward the James River. We are not advised of his exact condition; but the President directs that you shall send him all the re-enforcements from your command to the J ames River that you can safely do without abandoning your own position. Let it be infantry entirely, as he said yesterday that he had cavalry enough. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WASHINGTON CITY, June 28, 18626 p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, New Berrte: Since the dispatches of the President and myself to you of to-day we have seen a copy of one sent to you by General McClellan on the 25th, of which we were not aware. Our directions were not designed to interfere with any instrnctions given you by General McClellan, but only to authorize you to render him any aid in your power. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 28, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, Corinth: The enemy have concentrated in such force at Richmoiid as to render it absolutely nec~ssary, in the opinion of the President, for you im- mediately to detach 25,000 of your force, and forward it by the nearest and quickest route, by way of Baltimore and Washington, to Richmond. It is believed that the quickest route would be by way of Columbus, Ky., and up the Ohio River. But in detaching your force the Presi- dent directs that it be done in such way as to enable you to hold your ground and not interfere with the movement against Chattanooga and East Tennessee. This conditiou being observed, the forces to be de- tached and the route they are to be sent is left to your own judgment. The direction to send these forces immediately is rendered impera- live by a serious reverse suffered by General McClellan before Rich- mond yesterday, the full extent of which is not yet known. You will acknowledge the receipt of this dispatch, stating the day and hour it is received, and inform me what your action will be, so that we may take measures to aid in river and railroad transportation. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CIRCULAR.I HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoToMAc, June 28, 1862. In view of the great losses in the different grades ~of cznnmissioued officers which many of the regiments of the army have sustained in the. recent conflicts, one regiment being left entirely without officers, the commanding general directs that measures be taken by corps corn Page 272 272 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cwu. XXIII. manders to have the names of the most distinguished non-commissioned officers and soldiers, who have proved their claim to promotion by their gallantry in the actions of the Peninsula, sent forward at once, with recommendations for acting appointments for the places to which it is desired they shall be commissioned. The persons will at once enter on duty, and the commanding general will use every exertion to secure fr& m the Governors of States the corresponding commissions. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WJLLIAMS,] Assistant Adjm4~tant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 28, 1862. The commanding general directs that you immediately cause your command to be provided with three days rations in haversacks; ammu- nition sufficient to fill the boxes of the infantry and artillery; that the wagons that can be spared for the purpose be at once sent to the depots at Orchard Station and Savage Station for supplies of hard bread, sugar and coffee, and forage. These wagons, after being so loaded, will at once be sent through the White Oak Swamp via Savage Station, where they will wait further orders. The usual reserve ammunition must be taken. Please acknowledge. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 28, 1862. Care will be taken by commanders to send forward with their wagons all the intrenching tools in the possession of their commands. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 28, 1862. It is a matter of vital importance that all the transportation of the army should in the movement now taking place be employed exclu- sively for the carrying of ammunition and subsistence. All tents and all articles not indispensable to the safety or maintenance of the troops must be abandoned and destroyed. A reasonable supply of hospital stores will be taken, and all the intrenching tools in the possession of the troops. All unnecessary officers ~~dge will be left behizid; the sick and wounded that are not able to walk must necessarily be left. Every provision for their comfort must be made. Subsistence must be left and medical stores for their use in liberal quantities. Medical officers will be left in charge of the sick and wounded, and a sufficient number of attendants to supply the requisite care. They should b Page 273 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 273 furnished with papers stating their character. It is enjoined upon commanders to lose no time in loading their wagons as required. The commanding general relies upon the cheerfulness and patience with which the sacrifice demanded of officers and men for the short season only, it is hoped, will be borne. By command of Major.General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. FORT MONROE, June 29, 18622.30 p. m. Hon. E.. NI. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have a dispatch from General Stoneman. He is at Williamsburg. He has 900 men of the reserve; a battery of horse artillery, six guns; and one of foot artillery, four guns. His infantry force was turned over to General Casey and embarked on steamboats for Yorktown. I will telegraph you as soon as advised of their arrival. Colonel Ingalls, quartermaster, is at Yorktown, with four hundred transports, ~bound to James River. Everything was brought off from White House in perfect order. The gunboats were left at and near the White House, which is burnedby whom not known. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, June 29, 18622.45 p. m. NI. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: The White House depot was abandoned by me last night at sunset, in compliance with instructions previously given by General McClel- lan, and directly in consequence of the movements of the enemy the two preceding days. At 12 yesterday he was in possession of our rail- road. At Dispatch, 12 miles from White House, it was known he was marching down this side of the Chickahominy in great forceat least 30,000 strongand that a column of 6,000 as moving rapidly on this depot. At 5 (afternoon) General Stoneman fell back from Tunstalls to White House, pressed by the enemy. About 7 (afternoon) General Casey, who had recently relieved me in command of the troops, had embarked his infantry on boats and dropped down the river. Stone- man, with the cavalry and artillery, retired toward Williamsburg, in which direction I had already sent all the wagons, animals, & c., not provided for on transports. It was presumed that our army was across the Chickahominy. F. J. Porters corps crossed night before last, thus leaving the enemys large force quite isolated on this side. In any event the depot was useless the moment our railroad was seized; therefore I perfected arrangements to abandon it at once, and succeeded in so doing without loss, confusion, or accident, moving out from the narrow and tortuous Pamunkey some four hundred vessels laden with supplies, quite all of which I now have with me, en route to James River by Fort Monroe, if our arms are successful to-day and to-morrow at Richmond. The gunboats were still at White House and other important points on the river. Everything not required to be taken away was burned before I left. The White House itself was burned, probably by some unknown 18 .R RYOL XI, PT II Page 274 274 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. LOHAP. XXIII. hand. The officers of the staff department were one and all wonderfully zealous and energetic. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieut. Cot., Aide-do- Camp, and Assistant Quartermaster. FORT MONROE, June 29, 18624.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: I arrived here this morning, the enemy having driven our army from the left to the right bank of the Chickahominy, and having in force cut the railroad at Dispatch Station. The evacnating of White House Station became last evening a military necessity, and agreeably to orders from the Headquarters of the Army of the Potomac I evacuated. Every man was saved, and all pnblic property that could not be saved was destroyed. SILAS CASEY, Brigadier-General Volunteers. FORT MONROE, June 29, 18625.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General Casey has arrived here safely with his small force. We get no details of the operation yesterday, except at West Point and vicinity. General Casey left there at 7 last evening. The property remaining, which was small, had been fired, so that the enemy took nothing. This is the last intelligence from that point. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. Wiu DEPARTMENT, June 29, 18626 p. m. Hon. WM. H. SEWARD, Astor House, New York: Not much more than when you left. Fulton, of Baltimore American, is now with us. He left White House at 11 a. m. yesterday. He con- versed fully with a paymaster, who was with Porters force during the fight of Friday and fell back to nearer McClellans quarters just a little sooner than Porter did, seeing the whole of it. Staid on the Rich- mond side of the Chickahominy overnight and left for White House at 5 a. m. Saturday. He says Porter retired in perfect order under pro- tection of guns arranged for the purpose, under orders and not from necessity, and with all other of our forces, except what was left on pur- pose to go to White House, was safely in pontoons over the Chickahom- my before morning, and that there was heavy firing on the Richmond side, begun at 5 and ceased at 7 a. m. Saturday. On the whole I think we have had the better of it up to that point of time. What has hap- pened since we still know not, as we have no communication with Gen- eral McClellan. A dispatch from Colonel Ingalls shows that he thinks McClellan is fighting with the enemy at Richmond to-day and will be to-morrow. We have no means of knowing upon what Colonel Ingall Page 275 CHAP. XXIThJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 275 founds his opinion. All confirmed about saving all property. Not a single unwounded straggler came back to the White House from the field, and the number of wounded reaching there np to 11 a. m. Satur- day was not large. A. LINCOLN. To what the President has above stated I will only add one or two points that may be satisfactory for you to know: 1st. All the sick and wounded were safely removed from the White House; not a man left behind. 2d. A dispatch from Burnside shows that he is in condition to afford. efficient support and is probably doing so. 3d. The dispatch of Colonel Ingalls impresses me with the convictiom that the movement was made by General McClellan to concentrate on Richmond, and was successful to the latest point of which we have any information. 4th. Mr. Fulton says that on Friday night between 12 and 1 oclock General McClellan telegraphed Commodore Goldsborough that the resnlt of the movement was satisfactory to him. 5th. From these and the facts stated by the President my inference is that General McClellan will probably be in Richmond within two days. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, June 29, 1862. Major-General Dix: If you will be so good as to report any information you may receive I will not trouble you unless you have something to communicate. Thanking you for your attention, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, June 29, 18627.45 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Colonel Ingalls is here, with most of. the transports. He will go up the James River to-night and try to communicate with General McClellan. We expect to hear from him before morning. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, June 29, 1862-.-8 p. m. M. C. MEIGs, Quartermaster- General: I have seen General Dix, and arranged for boats to go np James River to-morrow with supplies and for wounded. General Casey is here on board of transports. Stoneman is at Williamsburg, en route to Yorktown. My trains arrived in safety. I leave immediately to-night for City Point, to ascertain the position and condition of the army. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant- Colonel Page 276 276 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XX1fl. FORT MONROE, June 29, 18628.30 p. m. D. C. MCCALLUM: The rebels have possession of our railroad. White House is aban- doned. Wentz and myself~ with all our men, are here, waiting your orders. One locomotive, with forty cars, are at headquarters. The other locomotives are under the guns of the gunboats, with connect- ing-rods taken off and preserved. All the men are safe. We ran the railroad up to the last moment The two locomotives last sent are still afloat and safe. C. S. MOALPIK, AS~uperintendent. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 30, 1862. Hon. WM. H. SEWARD, New York: We are yet without communication with General McClellan, and this absence of news is our point of anxiety. Up to the latest point to which we are posted he effected everything in such exact accordance with his plan, contingently announced to us before the battle began, that we feel justified to hope that he has not failed since. He had a severe engagement in getting the part of his army on this side of the Chickahominy over to the other side2 in which the enemy lost certainly as much as we did. We are not dissatisfied with this, only that the loss of enemies does not compensate for the loss of friends. The enemy cannot come below White House; certainly is not there now, and prob- ably has abandoned the whole line. Dixs pickets are at New Kent Court-House. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 30, 1862. Hon. WM. H. SEWARD, A8tor Blouse, New York: General McClellans line is established at Turkey Island, on the James River. Our gunboats are there. Nothing disastrous has hap- pened to him since communication was broken off. The whole move- ment appears to be successful so far as we can judge, but it seems as if he meant to begin intrenching. EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, June 30, 18627 p. m. lion. WM. H. SEWARD, Astor House, New York: We have received nothing of consequence since my last message stating that General McClellans communication with the gunboats was established. His depot on the James River is at Turkey Island Point. Stonemans and Caseys forces are on the way to join him from Fort Monroe. Without losing a man, they were the last to leave White House. The enemy have not advanced beyond White House. Halleck promises to send the force asked froni him, and I have sent Tucker to Corinth to arrange the transportation. We have news from Vick Page 277 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 277 burg. Farragut and Ellets ram fleet are there, acting together. The Mississippi is clear from Memphis to Vicksbnrg, and we shall soon have that. Goldsborough gives a report that Stonewall Jackson was killed Friday. Pope is hard at work organizing his force. Sigel takes Fr6monts corps instead of King, who preferred to keep command of his own division. You shall have all the reliable news as fast as it comes. Dix is at work to establish a new telegraph line between him and McClellan. Everything is moving briskly and favorably. If the Governors will give us promptly 100,000 men the war will be over. Mark the hour your telegrams are sent. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, June 30, 1862. Major-General WooL: McClellan has moved his whole force across the Chickahominy and rests on James River, being supported by our gunboats. The position is favorable, and looks more like taking Richmond than any time before. I will send you some service money.~ EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of W~ar. FORT MONROE, June 30, 186211.30 a. in. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: I send you copy of a letter just received from Commander Rodgers: U. S. GUNBOAT GALENA, Off Turkey Island, June 29, 1862. Commodore GOLDSBOROUGH: SIR: In obedience to your letter containing telegram from General McClellan, I im- mediately proceeded with this vessel, the Aroostook, and the Mahaska, up James River to Sturgeontown, above New Market, indicated in the telegram. I got under way at daylight and ran down to this place. I here met the Port Royal, with an officer from General Keyes, sent to open communication with me. He designated this as the point. I ventured up the river to bring the gunboats here. On coming down, I re- gret the Mahaska had a man killed by musket firing from the banks. I have since met Colonel Alexander, of the Engineers, sent by General McClellan to communicate with me, and to select base for operations. I shall take the colonel around on thia vessel to make the selection. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, JOHN RODGERS, Commaruler. P. S.I amia a very great hurry, and apologize for a postscript. Colonel Alexander has no means of communication, and begs that you will make known to General Dix the pressing necessity here for steamers for the accommodation of the sick ami wounded at the very earliest moment. Let them stop below Harrisons Bar and awaik General McClellan. Very respectfully, JOHN RODGERS, Commander. GOLDSBOIROUGH. * Some matter not connected with Peninsular Campaign omitted Page 278 278 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, June 30, 1862. Major-General Dix, Port Monroe: Is it not probable the enemy have abandoned the line between White House and McClellans rear? He could have but little object to main- tain it and nothing to subsist upon. Would not Stoneman better move up and see about it? I think a telegraphic communication can at once be opened to White House from Williamsburg. The wires must be up still. A. LINCOLN. FORT MONROE, June 30, 1862. (Received 11 a. in.) The President, ABRAHAM LINCOLN: Everything has been done that is possible to open communication with General McClellan. I have sent an armed tug up the Chicka- hoipiny. Commodore Goldsborough sent up the James River, and Colonel Ingalls went up last night. We expect to hear to-day. At 10 oclock yesterday the enemy had not occupied the point at White House. Our gunboats were still lying in the river, and the enemys re-enforce- ments were only seen on the high ground a mile or two back. I can- not learn as yet whether they came this side of the White House. I shall soon have a report from Williamsburg. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, June 30, 186211 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Will you please say to President Lincoln that the report from Will- iamsburg is just in? The enemy had not been at White House at 8 oclock last evening. Our pickets extend to New Kent Court-House, 6 miles this side. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, June 30, 18622 p. m. Hon. ABRAHAM LINCOLN: We have no doubt that McClellan intended to abandon the White House. Our only line of communication with him by telegraph from that point would be along the railroad, which the enemy will hardly give up. The communication of Commodore Goldsborough. telegraphed to Gideon Welles, will have advised you that the general relies on the James River br all his communications hereafter. The commodore was with me an hour ago. I suggested that we should extend our wires from Williamsburg to the mouth of the Chickahominy and there com- municate by the James River by steamers or carry them on the left bank of the river to Turkey Island Point, where the new depot is to be. The general has all the materials of the working party with him Page 279 Ciiir. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 279 and will no doubt at once open a new line of telegraphic communica- tion from his camp to the river, and thence to meet the old line at Williamsburg or Sole Point, higher up. We have no material here. 1 will make a reconnaissance in the vicinity of the White House, to ascertain whether the enemy are there. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY CORPS, Fort Monroe, Va., June 30, 1862. Brig. Gen. SRAS CASEY, U. S. Volunteers: GENERAL: You will proceed with your command to Harrisons Bar, oil the James River, about 6 miles this side of City Point, and there await the orders of Major-General McClellan, to whom you will report imme- diately by letter. You will find at Harrisons Bar a squadron of gun- boats for your protection. Respectfully, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. WASHINGTON CITY, June 30, 1862. Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe: So long as communication continues interrupted between General NIcClellan and the forces at Yorktown and Williamsburg you are au- thorized to assume command of them and all on that side of the Chicka- bominy, and give such orders as~you deem proper, not conflicting with the wishes of General McClellan. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 30, 1862. IMajor-General HALLECK, Corinth, Miss.: Would be very glad of 25,000 infantry; no artillery or cavalry; but please do not send a man if it endangers any place you deem important to hold or if it places you to give up or weaken or delay the expecta- tions a~ainst Chattanooga. To take and hold the railroad at or east of Cleveland, in East Tennessee, I think fully as important as the tak- ing and holding of Richmond. A. LINCOLN. CORINTH, June 30, 1862. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your telegram of the 28th is just received, but it is so imperfect that parts of it cannot be deciphered till repeated. The object, however, is understood, and measures will be immediately taken to carry it out. The condition of the river and railroads in Tennessee and the want o Page 280 280 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. rolling stock will render the movement very slow. Cavalry cannot be sent, and it will be exceedingly difficult to transport artillery with horses and guns. If artillerymen are sent, can they be supplied with horses and guns there, or shall I send infantry only I I think, under the circumstances, the Chattanooga expedition better be abandoned or at least be diminished. If not, I doubt our ability to hold West Tennessee after detaching so large a force as that called for. I will telegraph more in detail as soon as your telegram is repeated, as I cannot understand parts of it. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General. WASHINGTON CITY, June 30, 1862-.--3 p. m. Major.General HAIJLECK, Corinth: Your telegram of this date just received. The Chattanooga expedi. tion must not on any account be given up. The President regards that and the movement against East Tennessee as one of the most important movements of the war, and its occupation nearly as important as the capture of Richmond. He is not pleased with the tardiness of the move- ment toward Chattanooga, and directs that no force be sent here if you cannot do it without breaking up the operation against that point and East Tennessee. Infantry only are needed- ou tillery are strong enough. , r cavalry and ar- The first reports from Richmond were more discouraging than the truth warranted. If the advantage is not on our side it is balanced. General McClellan has moved his whole force onto the line of the James River and is supported by our gunboats. But he must be largely strengthened before advancing, and hence the call on you, which I am glad you have answered so promptly. Let me know to what point ou the river you will send your forces, so as to provide immediately for transportation. EDWIN M. STANTON, & cretary of War. TURKEY BRIDGE, June 30, 18627 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: (Received July 1, 11.30 a. in.) Another day of desperate fighting. We are hard pressed by superior numbers. I fear I shall be forced to abandon my material to save my men under cover of the gunboats. You must send us very large re-en- forcemeuts by way of Fort Monroe, and they must come very promptly. My army has behaved superbly, and have done all that men could do. if none of us escape, we shall at least have done honor to the country. I shall do my best to save the army. Send more gunboats. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. CITY POINT, JAMEs RIVER, June 30, 1862, 8 p. m. M. C. MEIGS, (Received Washington, July 1, 12 in.) Quartermaster- General: The general is 6 miles above here, on the river. His army will prob- ably fall back to Harrisons Bar, near here, to-morrow. It is nearly e Page 281 CHAP. XXIII.] 281 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. hausted with constant and desperate fighting against fearful odds. If his army be not speedily re-enforced the results may prove disastrous. Our department has the means of providing stores in abundance~ McClellan wants men now more than anything else. RUFUS INGALLS. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Turkey island, July 1, 18622.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. 8. Army: GENERAL: Another desperate combat to-day. Our troops repulsed the enemy. I was sending orders to renew the combat to-morrow, fearing the consequences of farther retreat in the exhausted condi- tion of the troops and being as willing to stake the last chance of battla in that position as any other nuder the circumstances, when I learned that the right had fallen back after dark and that the center was fol- lowing. I have taken steps to adopt a new line, the left resting on Turkey Island, and thence along a ridge parallel to James River as far as I have the force to hold it. Rodgers will do all that can be done to cover my flanks. I will probably be obliged to change this line in a few days, when I have rested the men, for one lower down, and extending from the Chickahominy to the James. If it is the intention of the Government to re-enforce me largely it should be done promptly and in mass. I need 50,000 more merf~ and with them I will retrieve our fortunes. More would be well, but that number sent at once will, I think, enable me to assume the offensive~ I cannot too strongly urge the necessity of prompt action in this matter. Even a few thousand fresh men within the next twenty-four or forty- eight hours will do much toward relieving and encouraging this wearied army, which has been engaged in constant combat for the last five or six days. I must apologize for the probable incoherency of, this letter. I am exhausted by want of sleep and constant anxiety for many days. Very respectfully, yours, GEG. B. McCLELL AJN, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, P. 0., July 1, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your telegram of last night has been received and will be answered by the President. We have sent you 5,000 from McDowells corps since Saturday that have reached Fort Monroe already, and I hope will be of use to you. ilalleck has been ordered to send a corps of his army, 25,000 infantry, [and answered] that he will do so. Tucker is on the road to Corinth to arrange the transportation. I hope to have them with you within two weeks. Hold your ground and you will be in Richmond before the month is over. EDWIIi M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 282 282 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ORAl. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brig. Gen. LoRENzo THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army: GENERAL: My whole army is here, with all its guns and material. The battle of yesterday was very severe, but the enemy was repulsed and severely punished. After dark the troops retired to this position. My men are completely exhausted, and I dread the result if we are attacked to-day by fresh troops. If possible I shall retire to-night to Harrisons Bar, where the gunboats can render more aid in covering our position. Permit me to nrge that not an hour should be lost in sending me fresh troops. More gunboats are much neede~t. I hope that the enemy was so severely handled yesterday as to render him careful in his movements to-day. I now pray for time. My men have proved themselves the equals of any troops in the world, but they are worn-out. Our losses have been very great. I doubt whether more severe battles have ever been fought. We have failed to win only becanse overpowered by superior numbers. Very truly, yours, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. NORFOLK, July 1, 1862p. m. Hon~ GiDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: Under date of yesterday I have a letter from Commander Rodgers, in which he says the army is, much of it, on the James River banks, Just above City Point. It is safe. General King and Colonel Alex- ander breakfasted with me. Communication is fully established. General McClellans headquarters are at Turkey Bend. He himself was on board the Galena yesterday. I have sent the Dacotah and Wachusett to Hardens Bluff to destroy the guns there effectually, and also at Days Point, if possible. The former vessel returned yesterday afternoon from convoying a number of transports up the James River, and it was my intention to send her back with another, but owing to a report that the enemy was probably trying to get two guns in batteries at Hardens Bluff I determined to send her off this morning, as stated. There are no guns at Fort Powhatan up to my last accounts. It is even doubtful whether any were ever there, judging from the appear- ance of the place, which is overgrown with high grass GOLDSBOROUGH. FORT MONROE, July 1,186210.25 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Colonel Campbell was directed to make a reconnaissance yesterday toward the White House. He encountered the enemys pickets near New Kent Court-House and drove them in. He was attacked in re- turn by a considerable cavalry force and was obliged to fall back. The enemys purpose will be ascertained if possible during the day. Please say to the President communication with General McClellan by way o Page 283 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 283 White House is impracticable, as the bridges over the Chickahominy are all destroyed. I have just received the following dispatch from General Marcy in pencil, dated June 30, 9 oclock last evening: Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe: The general commanding desires you to send all the re-enforcetnents to this place, to be landed at such places as the commander of the gunboats may deem appropriate when they arrive. We have had hard work to get here, and want the re-enforcements as soon as practicable. Please see that the men you send have three days rations in their haversacks. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. General Ferry has arrived here with 5,000 men from Alexandria. I shall push them on without delay. There was hard fighting yesterday on the James River. I have no details. The enemy was held in check. Nearly the whole power of the insurgent States is concentrated at Richmond. JOHN A. DIX, Major.General. FORT MONROE, July 1, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: I have just received the following dispatch from General Keyes: HEADQUARTERS FOURTH Cours, HaxaWn Biouse, Basic of Jarne8 River, June 30. Naj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Commanding at Fort Monroe: GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that with my corps, constituting the advance of the flank movement of the army before Richmond, I safely arrived at this point at sunrise, with all my troops, wagons, cannon, and public property, except Naglees brigade and a few outguards, which will report as soon as relieved. Fitz John Porters corps, which was ordered to support my advance, is now arriving, that officer himself being here, together with a portion of his trains. The movement may now be considered to have been nearly completed, and successfully. The enemy attacked my lines yesterday with cavalry, but they were promptly repelled, with heavy loss to the rebels. They were pretty well cut up. They also attacked the rear guard, but not with sufficient vigor to do much damage. Please communicate the above to the reporters, to relieve the minds of the anxious public. E. D. KEYES. Brigadier General, Commanding Fourth Corp8, Army Potomac. JOHN A. DLX, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 1, 1862. Brig. Gen. E. D. KEYES, Commanding Fourth Corps: The Army of the Potomac moves to-night to Harrisons Bar. Your command will form 1 he rear guard, Franklins corps just preceding yours. The gunboats are instructed to cover your flank and rear. Bring along all the wagons you can, but they are to be sacrificed, o Page 284 284 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. xxm. course, rather than imperil your safety. Celerity of movement is the sole security of this operation. At Harrisons Bar additional gunboats, a comfortable position, and considerable re-enforcements under General Shields. Stimulate your men to fortitude and renewed courage by a knowledge of the fact. Couchs division has already been ordered to move under the direction of General Porter. By command of Major-General McClellan: JAS. A. HAIRDIE, Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Near Haxall8 Landing, Va., July 1, 1862. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: SIR: This morning I learned with great surprise that an order had been sent to General Keyes last evening for General Wessells brigade to proceed in support of our forces in action. This information came from Capt. C. C. Snydam, assistant adjutant-general, who state(l he received it from you. No order of this nature ever reached me or any m ember of my staff. My remaining brigade was under arms, ready for any service, at the head of Turkey Creek, until about 3.30 p. in., when General Keyes ordered me to prepare to move, and to send an officer of my staff to him for orders. Aide-de-Camp Titus reported, and returned with Lieu- tenant Smith, of Keyes staff, who guided my command to a new posi- tion in line of battle on the extreme right, where I found General Keyes, and with whom I remained during the day and night. This day Major Hammerstein, aide-dc-camp of General McClellan, called upon me and gave me the following note, viz: JULY 1, 1862. An order for General Peck to move on the evening of June 30 one brigade up for action was in my possession, but was not delivered because his position was not known to me. I could not look longer forhim, because I had to move other troops, and knew that his other brigade was already in position. HAMMERSTEIN, Major, Aide-de-Camp. General Keyes, commanding Fourth Corps, added to the above: On the evening of the 30th of June I received a verbal order from General McClellan to send two of Couchs brigades to the front, to be guided by Major Webb, who brought the order. I received no order to send forward or to move specifically any part of General Pecks command in any other manner than to form my line of battle on\the 30th of June. E. D. KEYES, Brigadier-General, (iomnianding Fourth Go~ps. I feel very sanguine that you have labored under some misapprehen- sion, and I desire that this shall be presented to Baron Hammerstein, aide-de-camp, and General Keyes, and with their indorsements be suli- mitted to the commanding general of the Army of the Potomac, to the end that no injustice shall be done me in these l)rernlses. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK, Brigadier- General, Gommanding Divrswn Page 285 CHAP. XXIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 285 CORINTH, MIs8., July 1, 1862. (Received 9.16 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your corrected telegram of 28th was received last night. I had al- ready acted on the imperfect copy received yesterday morning. Gen- eral McClernand was ordered to send as many of his division as possible to Columbus by every train. General Quinby has been ordered to de- tach as many as he can spare from his command near Columbus. Light- draught boats have been ordered from Saint Louis to take one division from this place via Pittsburgh. A part of Wallaces division will be sent from Memphis as soon as I can relieve them. I fear that you have overestimated the strength of the army in West Tennessee. Since the departure of General Buells army and the detach- ments to General Curtis I have less than 65,000 effective men. After sending the detachment ordered to Washington I shall have less than 40,000. We have repaired and have now to guard between Columbus, Memphis, and Decatur 367 miles of railroad, besides the posts estab- lished on Mississippi River and many rivers. All scouts, spies, desert- ers, and prisoners, without a single exception, report that no troops have been sent from here East. The rebel force in this State is not less than 75,000 or 80,000 men, and Bragg is raising conscripts daily. These are facts of which I have the most reliable evidence. The enemy acts in a friendly country, requiring no guards for his de- pots, and has an immense rolling stock, so that he can in a t~ew days concentrate on any one point. We cannot so concentrate. I am there- fore satisfied that a detachment of 25,000 from this army at the present time will result in the loss of Arkansas or West Tennessee, and perhaps both. Those who have not the proper data have been disposed to un- derrate the force of the enemy and to overrate that of this army. The facts are precisely as here given. Those who represent otherwise de- ceive you. Either the Chattanooga expedition must be postponed or a less force sent to Washington, or we have left the alternative of losing much that we have gained here in the West. To surrender any territory we have acquired is certain death to all Union men in that territory. Any loss on our part will be followed by insurrection in Tennessee and Kentucky, and we shall find still greater difficulty in the pacification of those States than we have encountered in Missouri. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General. CORINTH, July 1, 1862. (Received 9.40 p. in.) The PRESIDENT: Your telegram just received saves Western Tennessee; the former order was imperative and I had no alternative but obedience. The enemy is undoubtedly preparing to attack some point of our lines, sup- posing our forces diminished. I immediately ordered them all back to their posts. If these troops had been sent East, we should have been defeated or forced to retreat. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General, Commanding Page 286 286 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cuip. XXIII. CORINTH, July 1, 18628.45 a. m. (Received 9.40 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: Telegraph suspending orders for troops is received. If order had been carried out we should have been either defeated or forced to re- treat. No forces can be spared at present. The enemy is apparently preparing to make an attack, and his guerrillas have already done us considerable damage. H. W. HALLEOR, Major. General, Commandinq. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major.General HALLECK, July 2, 1862. Corinth, Miss.: Your several dispatches of yesterday to Secretary of War and myself received. I did say, and now repeat, I would be exceedingly glad for some re-enforcemeuts from you; still, do not send a man if in your judgment it will endanger any point you deem important to hold,or will force you to give up, or weaken, or delay the Chattanooga expedi. lion. Please tell me, could you make me a flying visit for consultation without endangering the service in your department? A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., July .2, 186?.. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your dispatch of Tuesday morning induces me to hope your army j~ having some rest. In this hope allow me to reason with you a moment.. When you ask fkr 50,000 men to be promptly sent you, you surely labor- under some gross mistake of fact. Recently you sent papers show- ing your disposal of forces made last spring for the defense of Wash- ington and advising a return to that plan. I find it included in and. about Washington 75,000 men. Now, please be assured I have not men enough to fill that very plan by 15,000. All of Fr~monts in the valley, all of Banks, all of McDowells not with you, and all in Washington,. taken together, do not exceed, if they reach, 60,000. With Wool and Dix added to those mentioned I have not, outside of your army, 75,000 men east of the mountains. Thus the idea of sending you 50,000, or any other considerableforce, promptly is simply absurd. If; in yourfrequent mention of responsibility, you have the impression that I blame you for not doing more than you can, please be relieved of such impression. I only beg that in like manner you will not ask impossibilities of me. If you think you are not strong enough to take Richmond just now I do not ask you to try just now. Save the army, material and per- sonal, and I will strengthen it for the offensive again as fast as I can. The Governors of eighteen States offer me a new levy of 300,000, which. I accept. A. LJNCOLN. Page 287 ChAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 287 FORT MONROE, JuLy 2, 18622 p. m. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, & cretary of the Navy: I have just received, under date of yesterday, the following dispatch from General McClellan, addressed to me: I would most earnestly request that every gunboat or other armed vessels suitable for action in the James River be sent at once to this vicinity, headquarters, and placed under the orders of Commodore Rodgers, for the purpose of covering the camps and cOIILfl)unicatiOfl of this army. May I urge that not an hour be lost, and that you telegraph the Navy Department respecting the request I make. If this is immediate, I must offer as an excuse the extreme exhaustion under which I am laboring. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. Also the following is the substance of dispatch from Commander Rodgers, bearing same date and sent by same opportunity: The army is in a had way. To save it, as far as we can, demands immediately all our disposable force. Fort Powhatan is a very important point. It should be imme- diately guarded. City Point commands the upper part, and that demands a strong force of gunboats to N (Here telegraph line failed.) Fort Powbatan is a most important point. It should be strongly guarded. City Point coin mands the channel past it. That demands a strong force of gunboats. To insure the passage of supplies each end of the encampment on the river banks demands a force of gunboats. We shelled the enemy with good effect, I hear, yesterday. Please send ammunition iinmediatelyS-inch and 9-inch shells, 100-pounder rifle projectiles, with cartridges for them and the 9-inch shells. Position of gunboats Delaware and Satellite in Chici. abominy. Port Royal sent yesterday, with Colonel Alexander, of Engineers, to select a base for operations. Not returned. Aroostook and Mahaska near Turkey Creek, protecting flank. Maratanza protecting passage of supplies con- voying them. Monitor off City Point guarding it. Southuleld aground below City Point. Galena a position near Turkey Creek, at headquarters. Pert Royal is to come here. JOHN RODGERS. I scarcely need add that I am doing everything in my power to afford the assistance required, and am here for the purpose of expediting mat- ters. The Jacob Bell, Morse, Barney, and Yankee have already gone up the same river. The Currituck leaves immediately, and so, too, with the Sebago. The Baltimore goes up in an hour or two with ordnance stores. I wish the Department to rest assured that nothing shall be wanting on my part. GOLDSBOROUGH. BERKELEY, HARRISONS BAR, July 2, 18625.30 p. m. (Via Fort Monroe, June 3, 10.40 a. in.) Hon. AERAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: I have succeeded in getting this army to this place on the banks of the James River. I have lost but one gun, which had to be abandoned last night because it broke down. An hour and a half ago the rear of the wagon train was within a mile of camp, and only one wagon aban- doned. As usual, we had a severe battle yesterday and beat the enemy badly, the men fighting even better than before. We fell back to this position during the night and morning. Officers and men thoroughly worn-out by fighting every day and working every night for a week. They are in good spirits, and after a little rest will fight better tha Page 288 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. xxm. ever. If not attacked during this day I will have the men ready to re- pulse the enemy to-morrow. General Ferry is here. Our losses have been very heavy, for we have fought every day since last Tues~lay. I have not yielded an inch of ground unnecessarily, but have retired to prevent the superior force of the enemy from cutting me off and to take a different base of operations. I thank you for the re-enforcements. Every 1,000 men you send at once will help me much. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. FORT MONRoE, July 2, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have intelligence from General McClellans headquarters to 6 p. m. yesterday. There was very little fighting up to that hour. An attack on our left was repulsed. The report from Williamsburg is in. The enemy has not come this side of New Kent Court-House. Our pickets there are in sight of each other. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, July 29.50 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We drove back the enemys pickets this morning some 4 miles. They are near New Kent Court-House, and said to be iu force between that point and White House. They gave some indications of withdrawing, but I distrust them. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 2, 1862. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant-General: GENERAL: Please order Colonel Farnsworth and Colonel Averell at once to take all the cavalry that can be collected, with the exception of two squadrons, and go back to assist in covering the rear of our column and in bringing up artillery and troops. Instruct them to go as far back toward Porters old camp as possible, and to remain in rear long enough to get up all the wagons possible. If they find any impossibilities in get- ting them along, let them destroy them and drive forward the animals. Tell them expressly that the commanding general relies on them to ful- fill all that can be done by cavalry. Send other regiments or compa- nies under their command if they can be found, and if Colonel Gregg is here let him be sent to assist. Respectfully, R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff Page 289 CHAP. XXXIII.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 289 [Indorsement.J HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 2, 1862. General Keyes will please cause the within instructions to be promptly executed. It is understood that Colonels Farnswotths and. Greggs regiments are with him. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS.. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 2, 1862.. Brig. Gen. E. D. KEx~Es: GENERAL: I have ordered back to your assistance all the cavalry that can be raised here. It is of the utmost importance that we shonl4 save all our artillery and as many of our wagons as possible, and the commanding general feels the utmost confidence that you will do alL that can be done to accomplish this. Permit me to say that if you~ bring in everything you will accomplish a most signal and meritorious exploit, which the commanding general will not fail to represent in its. proper light to the Department. Very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. - WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, July 3, 1862. Major.General DIX, Fort Monroe: What is the latest information you have from General McClellans; army and the James River? Report at least every three hours untiL further order. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War~ FORT MONROE, July 3, 18621 p. in. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The last news from General McClellan is contained in his dispatch to the President sent two hours ago. There was no fighting yesterday, and I hope for the best from that circumstance. His position is said to be very strong. I have sent a party to put up wires from Williams. burg to Jamestown Island. If [they] are not disturbed by the enemy, I think we could hear from McClellan after to-morrow three times a day. Now we can only hear once. JOHN A. DIX, Major. General. 19 R RYOL XI~ PT H Page 290 290 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXHL FORT MONROE, July 3, 18623 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just received the following dispatch from Colonel Hawkins. I do not quite understand why General Burnside should not have sent it in his ~own name, if it comes from or is authorized by him. The offi- cer who brought it says Colonel Hawkins sent it, with the assurance that General Burnside would approve it: HEADQUARTERS ROANOKE ISLAND, Jtly 2, 18626 p. m. General Dix: I wish you would telegraph immediately to President Lincoln if he has any orders other than the last sent some three days ago for General Burnside. We are almost ready to move in obedience to that order. If Richmond be taken the President ma.y wish to change his instructions. Please give me General McClellans position when last heard from. Please return the dispatch boat immediately, as the news which it brings will, I think, govern the operations in this department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, RUSH C. HAWKINS Colonel, Commanding Jfir8t Brigade andPo8t. P. S.We shall be ready to move in twenty-four hours. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. WASHINGTON CITY, July 3, 1862. Colonel HAWKINS, Commanding at J?oanoke island: Your telegram of July 2 to General Dix has just been received. Richmond is not taken. General McClellan has been compelled to fall back to Harrisons Bar, on the James River. it i~ the opinion of the President, and he so directs, that General Buruside in person, with all the infantry force he cai spare, move by way of Hampton Roads and the James River to General McClellans headquarters to re-enforce him dmmediately. EDWIN N. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, July 3, 18628.10 p. m. The PRESIDENT: Soon after sending you Colonel Hawkins dispatch I received from General McClellan an order to General Buruside to bring on all the troops he could spare. I sent it oft~ immediately, with a letter from my- self describing to General Buruside the position of General McClellans army. The steamer having gone, I cannot send your dispatch to Colonel Hawkins until morning. I will do so then, if you desire it. JOHN A. DIX, Major. General. WASHINGTON CITY, Jtziy 3, 1862. Major-General HUNTER: Commanding De~tpartment of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.: GENERAl: The condition of the army under General McClellan re- quires that the whole available infantry forces of the Governmen Page 291 291 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. should be immediately sent to his command on the James River. The President therefore directs that you immediately forward all the infantry force that can be spared to Fort Monroe, thence to proceed according to orders to be received on their arrival at that place. It is believed that you can forward 10,000 infantry, and if more can be sent with safety to your command, it is hoped you will do so with your accustomed energy and promptness. No artillery or cavalry are wanted. Very respectfully, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. Capt. W. W. McKim, assistant quartermaster, Boston, Mass., will forward above as soon as possible. By order of Secretary of War: M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., July 3, 1862. Maj. len. GEORGE B. McCLELLAN: Yours of 5.30 yesterday is just received. I am satisfied that yourself, officers, and men have done the best you could. All accounts say better fighting was never done. Ten thousand thanks for it. On the 28th we sent General Burnside an order to send all the force he could spare to you. We then learned that you had requested him to go to Goldsborough; upon which we said to him our order was in- tended for your benefit and we did not wish to be in conflict with your views. We hope you will have help from him soon. To-day we have ordered General Hunter to send you all he can spare. At last advices General Halleck thinks he cannot send re-enforcements without endangering all he has gained. A. LINCOLN, Preside~it. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ffarri~ons Bar, July 3, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: In order to insure a perfect understanding of the exact condi- tion of this army, I have directed my chief of staff, General B. B. Marcy, to repair to Washington and give you full explanations of the events of the last few weeks. A simple summary is, that this army has fought every day fora week against superior numbers, holding its own at least, often repulsing the enemy by day, then retiring at night. Our light and heavy guns are saved, with the exception of one. All the wagons are now within the line of pickets, and 1 hope will all be saved. The army is thoroughly worn-out, and requires rest and very heavy re-enforcements. Our losses have been very great, for the fighting has been desperate, and officers and men have behaved heroically. I am in hopes that the enemy is as completely worn-out as we are. He was certainly very severely punished in the last battle. The roads ar Page 292 292 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (CHAP. XXITI. now very bad. For these reasons I hope that we shall have enough breathing space to reorganize and rest the men and get them into posi- tion before the enemy can attack again. I have ordered Burnside to bring up all his available force, and leave to your judgment the ques- tion of evacuating New Berne and its dependencies, so as to bring any available men to re-enforce this army. It is of course impossible to estimate as yet our losses, but I doubt whether there are to-day more than 50,000 men with their colors. To accomplish the great task of capturing Richmond and putting an end to this rebellion re-enforcements should be sent to me rather much over than much less than 100,000 men. I beg that you will be fully impressed by the magnitude of the crisis in which we are placed. We require action on a gigantic scale-..-one commensurate with the views I expressed in a memorandum to the President submitted early last August, when first ordered to command the Army of the Potomac. The safety of the country and the preserva- tion of its honor demand the utmost energy and intelligence. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS July 3, 1862-..-12.30 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding: Captain Reno has just returned from a reconnaissance on the Charles City road. He went almost 14 miles from the mill near General Keyes headquarters, when he found the enemy. They had two guns in position on the right of the road and were firing across the creek in the direc- tion of Kearnys camp. Their battery was supported by a force of cav- alry and infantry. He could not see many men, and thinks the force was a small one. Some of the shells went over the woods and fell in this field several hundred yards beyond the road. Captain Renos party was near their cavalry; he thinks they had but one squadron. Very respectfully, & c., S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Brigadier-General. HDQRS. REAR GUARD ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 3, 1862.6 p. m. General MCCLELLAN: SIR: At midnight on the 1st I was advised of your movement, and that I was to command the rear guard, consisting of my own small division. Although exhausted by unremitting labors and loss of rest, I made up my mind to give you all my energies and aim to save your whole train. At 2 a. m. I was in the saddle, with my line of battle formed on the crest this side of your headquarters. I did not dismount until every command, all the batteries, wagons, and stragglers had passed my line. Although my orders were of a nature to warrant my following close to the troops and batteries, I resolved to protect the whole train to the extent of my ability. After the delays consequent upon the heavy rain I decided that I would halt at the creek or run, and place Page 293 ChAP. XXIII.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 293 brigade and battery on one side, and a brigade o~i the other side of the heavy timber in supporting distance. Some shells were thrown into the train yesterday and also to-day, but failed to stampede. After passing the whole day here I am proud to say that everything of your fine army is over the creek save my guard, and that the loss of property is very trifling. I shall soon pass my guard to the crest of the opposite side, where I have arranged a battcry so as to sweep the approaches. I am, in haste, very truly, JOHN ~. PECK, Brigadier-General. HDQRS. REAR GUARD ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near the Harrison House, Va., July 3, 18626 p. m. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: SIR: It affords me great pleasure to inform you that the entire Army of the Potomac, with its immense trains (save my guard), has safely passed the creek or run which has caused us so much trouble and delay. This has been accomplished without any sacrifice of property, and in the face of the greatest difficulties and discourageineuts. All the at- tempts of the enemy to stampede the trains by shells, from different points proved utterly abortive. So soon as the wagons clear from the woods I shall proceed to bring over my command by detachments, covering the movement by a sec- tion of artillery from a commanding position. My new line of battle will be formed on the right and left of the main road until otherwise ordered. I shall have the territory across the creek thoroughly picketed. In haste, very respectfully, JOHN J. PECK, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division and Rear Guard. WASHINGTON CITY, July 4, 1862. JOHN TUCKER, Esq., Assistant Secretary of War, Corinth: Dispatches from General Halleck since you left here render it doubt- ful whether General ilaileck can spare any forces consistently with contemplated operations and the nec& ssities of his own command. If, on consultation with him, this should prove to be the case, you will ascer- tain from him whatever wants can be supplied by this Department and report to me for further orders. Advices from General McClellan as late as 9 this morning state that his forces are at Harrisons Landing, on the James River, and had thus far repulsed the attacks made by the enemy. His loss has been very heavy, and his necessity for re-enforcement is pressing. The President, by telegram this morning, communicated with General ilalleck his views, and it is needless for me to add more. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 294 294 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAP. XXIII.. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major-General HALLECK, Corinth, Miss.: July 4, 1862. You do not know how much you would oblige us if, without aban- doning any of your positions or plans, you could promptly send us even 10,000 infantry. Can you not? Some part of the Corinth army is cer- tainly fightingMcClellan in front of Richmond. Prisoners are in our hands from the late Corinth army. A. LIKCOLX. HARRISoNS BAR, JAMES RIVER, July 4, 18621 p. m. (Received July 5, 12.50 a. in.) The PRESIDENT: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your dispatch of yes- terday afternoon. I thank you for your expression of satisfactiou with the conduct of this army and myself. On yesterday I ordered General Bnrnside to send me such re-enforce- ments as he could afford. I thank you for the order to General Hun- ter to send me all the troops he can spare. I regret that General Hal- leck considers all his force necessary to maintain his~ position. I do not wish to endanger in any way the secure occupation of what has been gained in the Southwest. I will do the best I can with such force as I have and such aid as you can give me. I think that the Army of Vir- ginia should keep out cavalry reconnaissances in the direction of Rich- mond, lest the enemy should prefer an advance to Washington to at- tacking this army. I wish to be advised fully of all matters in front of that army. If the capital be threatened, 1 will move this army, at whatever hazard, in such direction as will best divert the enemy. Our whole army is now drawn up for review in its positions, bands playing, salutes being fired, and all things looking bright. GEO. B. McCLELLAK, Major-General. WAu DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., July 4, 1862. General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: I have seen the President and Secretary of War. Ten thousand men from Hunter, 10,000 from Burnside, and 11,000 from here have been ordered to re-enforce you as soon as possible. Halleck has been urged by the President to send you at once 10,000 men from Corinth. The President and Secretary speak very kindl~r of you and find no fault. I will remain here until I hear from you. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. NORFOLK, July 4, 186212.30 p. m. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: No news of any kind from up James River up to this hour. I argue favorably from this, as Coin. Rodgers is directed to keel) me informed o Page 295 CHAP. XXIII.] 295 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. all events of importance. Am told that both the President and your- self are naturally very anxious to know at the earliest moment possible all that transpires of serious occurrence. All the guns at both forts on Days Point and Hardens Bluff I have had burst or brokenrendered entirely useless. Seventeen gunboats in all are at the scene of action, and another, the Cecur-de-Lion, will go up the river to-night. She came down to be repaired. The Tioga has not arrived. Orders await her at Fort Mon- roe to go up the James River without a moments delay. GOLDSBOROUGH. WASHINGTON CITY, July 4, 1862. Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe: Send forward the dispatch to Colonel Hawkins and this also. Our order and General McClellans to General Burnside being the same, of course we wish it executed as promptly as possible. A. LiNCOLN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VmGI~IA, Washington, D. 0., July 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, on James River: GENERAL: As you have doubtless been informed, I was a few days since assigned by the President to the command of the forces and de- partments lately under the command of Generals Fr6mont, Banks, and McDowell. I avail myself of the first moment, after ascertaining the strength, positions, and condition of the force thus assigned me, to communicate with you. I beg you to understand that it is my earnest wish to co- operate in the heartiest and most energetic manner with you, and that there is no service, whatever the hazard or the labor, which I am not ready to perform with this army to carry out that object. That you may understand precisely what means are at my disposal for such a purpose and what is expected of me I will proceed to give you in detail the information which will enable you to understand pre. cisely my situation and the power I have to aid your operations. Do not hesitate to suggest frankly and freely to me any views and wishes you may entertain in regard to the assistance I can give you. Be assured that your suggestions will be received with all kindness and as far as possible adopted. I am guided, and shall be, by an earnest wish to contribute by every possible means within my control to the success of your operations. You know the history of the late peculiar operations in the Shenan- doah Valley, and that General Fr6mont has retired from his command for reasons unnecessary to set forth. The forces lately under his com- mand and those of General Banks are collected in the neighborhood of Strasburg and Middletown. They are much demoralized and broken down, and unfit for active service for the present. Of some use they can be, but not much just now. They are scattered at small posts, but are now being concentrated. They number about 23,000 men of all arms Page 296 296 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ECHAP. XXIIL The army corps of General McDowell, about 19,000 strong, is by far the best, and in fact the only reliable portion of my command. One divis- ion is at Manassas, the other at Fredericksburg. General Sturgis is in command of the forces within and outside of the intrenchments near Washington. They number altogether about 17,000 men, mostly raw recruits and fragments of broken regiments, in no condition for service. My first object is to concentrate all these forces (except those under Sturgis), as far as practicable, in advance of this place, both to put them in condition for active operations and t~ have them in hand. In this arrangement the security of the valley of the Shenandoah and of the city of Washington must be held in view. I have therefore broken up the depots on the Ohio River and on the Baltimore and Ohio Rail- road, and established my depots and base of operations at Alexandria. I am concentrating the two corps of Fr~mont (now Sigels) and Banks near Luray Gap (Sperryville); Banks about 5 or 6 miles east of that place. The division of McDowell, now at Manassas, has moved forward to Warrenton and taken post. His cavalry brigade has advanced to Warrenton Junction, with strong cavalry pickets south of the Rappa- hannock. The division at Fredericksburg pickets the country 20 miles in advance of that place. A good stone turnpike connects Luray vith Warrenton. It was my purpose, before the news of your critical situa- tion reached here, to concentrate the two divisions of McDowell at Orange Court-House and the corps of Banks and Sigel at Stanards- ville; thence to occupy Gordonsville long enough to destroy entirely the Virginia Central road between that place and Hanover Court-House, and to move on Charlottesville, or a point east of that place, with my whole force united; to destroy the railroad between Lynchburg and Charlottesville, and also, by pushing cavalry in various directions to- ward it, to destroy the railroad from Lynchburg to Richmond; to move down to ~James River at Columbia, and to pursue the north (left) bank of the river toward Richmond at least as far as Tuckahoe Creek; to take up a strong position behind that creek, and throw bridges over the James River or secure those now existing within the proposed lines, so as to be able to throw my whole force across to the south side whenever it became necessary. Having secured these objects, to aid you in any way in the immediate operations against Richmond. The occurrences of the last few days have deranged this plan, aNd I am holding my forces at the points I have designated, so as to be able, by marching rapidly on Gordonsville and Charlottesville, to cut off any force which may penetrate into the valley of the Shenandoah from the direction of Richmond, and at the same time be abl? to concentrate my whole force with little delay in front of Washington in case of necessity. These positions I shall hold until some well-defined plan of operations and co-operation can be determined on. It seems to me that it will not be difficult for the enemy at Richmond to detach 50,000 men to march rapidly on Washington if it be uncov- ered by the movement of the forces now under my command in any direction. Much of my cavalry I am keeping in the valley of the Shen- andoah, and as soon as my forces are established as I have designated, they (the cavalry) will be pushed as far south as Swift Run Gap and Harrisonburg. I have intrenched a brigade of infantry with one bat- tery at Winchester; a somewhat smaller force will be posted in a like manner at Romney. The small posts at Clarksburg, Beverly, Buck- hannon, & c., are placed under charge of General Kelley, who has som Page 297 297 CirAP. xxm.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. force also on the railroad. The care and protection of the road has been assigned to General Wool, so that I am foot-loose in that region. I have directed General Cox, who has about 12,000 men in the Kana- wha Valley, near Lewisburg, to maneuver so as to get Heth and Hum- phrey Marshall between himself and Lexington or Lynchburg, and then follow them through to Lexington by the turnpike, and open communi- cation with Staunton or Charlottesville, abandoning entirely his line to Point Pleasant, on the Ohio, and calling in his small posts. Of course this movement will depend upon whether my operations toward Char- lottesville and Richmond are carried out. Your position on James River places the whole of the enemys force around Richmond between yourself and Washington. Were I to move with my command direct on Richmond I must fight the whole force of the enemy before I could join you, and at so great a distance from you as to be beyond any assistance from your army. If my command be em- barked and sent to you by James River the enemy would be in Wash- ington before it had half accomplished the journey. Under these circumstances my position here is difficult and embarrass- ing. Whilst I am very anxious to render you all the assistance in my power, the imperative necessity of insuring the safety of the capital must control my operations. You now know my position and resources. A movable force of 43,000 men (19,000 in good order), posted as I have detailed to you, are alllhave, andlammaderesponsibleforthesecurityof this city. I trust you will communicate your wishes to me, and give me the ben- efit of any views and suggestions which will enable me to aid you. I need not repeat that I stand prepared to do all in my power for that purpose. I am, general, respectfQlly, your ob9dient servant, JNO. POPE, - Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PROVISIONAL CORPS, Jlarrisou8 Bar, July 4, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to present to the consideration of the commanding general this my recommendation that Brig. Gen. P. St. George Cooke be relieved from the command of the cavalry now serv- ing with this army. At the battle of the Chickahominy, on the 27th ultimo, I directed, in person, General Cooke to keep the cavalry below the hill in the valley, notifying him there was no use of cavalry on the hill, and I desired him to look to my left flank in the valley and not to come on the hill. Just at dusk, and as all my artillerywas getting into action and driving the enemy from our front and checking pursuit of some disorganized forces, I was horrified to find cavalry charging through the batteries on my left and the men fleeing in terror. No efforts could stop them nor the artillery. The cavalry there caused the loss of this action and the abandonment of eight pieces of artillery. I have since learned that General Cooke after lea ding a portion (First and Fifth Cavalry and Lancers) of the cavalry under his com- mand to attack immediately on the left of the batteries, left them i Page 298 298 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cw& r. XXIII, charge of Captain Whiting, with discretionary power to act as he did best think. The regiments entered to the left of the batteries so close as to frighten the horses and make them unmanageable. They turned, running through the batteries, carrying men and batteries with them. I was also informed that as soon as this disaster was created he directed his command at once to return and cross the river which he did without an effort to check the tide of frightened men, and setting a bad exam- ple to the troops. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. J. PORTER Brigadier-General, Gommanding. CAMP NEAR HARRISONS BA]~, July 4,1862. Brigadier-General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. ~ Army: General Casey has reported here to me from the White House. I have no command which can be given him with a beneficial resnlt to the public service. I have great respect for the military information and character of General Casey, but his health and years do not fit him for the active command of troops serviI~g under the cii-cumstances under which this army has now to make its way. I have therefore been com- pelled, reluctantly, to order him to repair to Washington. S. WILLIAMS, * A8si8tant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Wa8hington, D. U., ~July 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: I have nominated for promotion General Sumner as brevet major- general of the regular service and major-general of volunteers; Gen- erals Heintzelman, Keyes, and Porter as brevet brigadiers in the regular service and major-generals of volunteers. The gallantry of every officer and man in your noble army shall be suitably acknowledged. General Marcy is here. He will take you cheering news. Be assured that you shall have the support of this Department and the Govern- ment as cordially and faithfully as was ever rendered by man to man, and if we should ever live to see each other face to face you will be satisfied that you have never had from me anything but the most con- fiding integrity. EDWIN NI. STANTON, & cretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley, July 5, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. ~. Army: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I now have this army placed in a satisfactory position for defensive purposes; one, too, which So signed in the original Page 299 Cn~r. XX~.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 299 covers the debouch6s in both directions, and enables me at any time to resume the offensive, which I hope soon to be in condition to under- take. My men are in excellent spirits. A short time will fully rest them, and the arrival of re-enforcements enable me to take care of my communications. You may rest assured, general, that Richmond shall yet be taken if I am properly supported. If I am not attacked in the morning I shall feel the enemy with some strength, and at once take steps to ascertain his position and prevent him from assuming a new liqe of operations. I have every reason to believe that oar victory at Malvern Hill was a crushing oneone from which he will not readily recover. It is not my present intention to fall back another mile. I will run the risk of the Interruption of our communications by the James River. I inclose with this copies of a proclamation I have just issued to the troops. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., July 4, 1862. iS~oldiers of the Army of the Potomac: \ Your achievements of the last ten days have illustrated the valor and endurance of the American soldier. Attacked by vastly supe- rior forces, and without hope of re-enforcements, you have succeeded in changing your base of operations by a flank movement, always re- garded as the most hazardous of military expedients. You have saved all your material, all your trains, and all your guns, except a few lost in battle, taking in return guns and colors from the enemy. Upon your march you have been assailed day after day with desper- ate fury by men of the same race and nation skillfully massed and led; and under every disadvantage of numbers, and necessarily of position also, you have in every conflict beaten back your foes with enormous slaughter. Your conduct ranks you among the celebrated armies of history. No one will now question that each of you may always say with pride, I belonged to the Army of the Potomac! You have reached this new base complete in organization and unim- paired in spirit. The enemy may at any moment attack you. We are prepared to receive them. I have personally established your lines. Let them come, and we will convert their repulse into a final defeat. Your Government is strengthening you with the resources of a great people. On this our nations birthday we declare to our foes, who are rebels against the best interests of mankind, that this army shall enter the capital of their so-called Confederacy; that our National Constitution shall prevail, and that the Union, which can alone insure internal peace and external security to each State, must and shall be preserved, cost what it may in time, treasure, and blood. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, commanding Page 300 300 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAi.. XXIII. FORT MONROE, July 5, 18621 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I have just received dispatches from General McClellan the same as those to President. They are dated noon yesterday.. His last words are, The national salute is firing; bands are playing; the trOop8 are in fine spirits. My messenger left hour later. All right then. JOHN A. DIX. WASHINGTON CITY, July 5,1862. Major-General I3URNSIDE, Via Fort Monroe: The Department has no further orders to give, but hopes you will with all speed reach General McClellan with as large a force as possible. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC Camp near Harrisons Landing, July 5, 18622.15 a. in. Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Second Corps: Information, supposed to be reliable, has reached these headquarters that the Confederate forces under Lee, with Johnston, Longstreet, Jack. son, & c., are very near us, in front of our whole line, and that an attack may be expected at any moment. Immediately upon hearing any heavy firing the general wishes you to have your men under arms, with your batteries harnessed. Do not, however, disturb your troops until the action has commenced. Wherever the heavy firing begins report by a staff officer at once to the general headquarters, which will be at the barn near Sykes headquarters, where you met the general day before yesterday. The spot will be indicated by a small national color. lf the headquarters are changed, aides will be left to designate their new position. I am directed by the general to say that in no event are you to move your troops without the generals~ orders, unless a portion of the line should give way, and as a matter of life and death your immediate movement is indispensable to retrieve the fortunes of the day. In that event you will report the circumstance to General Headquarters, stating the force you have sent. The general wishes to hold your corps in hand to follow up a repulse of the enemy, which he regards as certain should he attack. The general has directed ammunition to be loaded up. Send staff officers to the depot to see where the ammunition is and to secure its coming to the front with certainty and rapidity at the moment needed. The general wishes you to detail plenty of staff assistance from your command, and to be in constant communication with him once at least every half hour should an engagement take place. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 301 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 301 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, July 5, 1862Midnight. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM B. FRANKLIN, Commanding Si.Tth Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding has information from a prisoner that Lee, Johnston, Lon gstreet, & c., are within 4 miles of us. If this is true we may probably expect an attack to-morrow. The prisoner is now being re-examined by Colonel Key. If Alexanders redonbt is at all defensible by morning the general thinks it would be well to have the guns in battery at that time all ready for action. Have your troops under arms a little before daylight, batteries harnessed, and cavalry saddled. If within an hour after daylight your pickets report no new movement of the enemy, set your working parties to work as vigorously as possible; continue the work on the redoubt as rapidly as possible until the last moment, and, if possible, abatis it. The general suggests the construction of rifle pits for your infantry and epaulements for your light batteries. Look well to your left, and be ready to support it in the event of an action. Headquarters will in the first place be near the barn near Sykes headquarters. Hold your own as long as possible, without calling your own reserves into action or sending for the generals reserves, as it is the desire of the general commanding to follow up with the reserves the repulse of the enemy, which he believes will be the certain consequence of an attack upon us in our present position. Do you need more light batteries; if so, how many, and of what caliber? Your position must be held at any cost, and you will be supported to any necessary extent. Reserve ammunition will be loaded in wagons, ready to send forward as soon as your ordnance officers-call for it at the ammunition landing. You had better push it up as rapidly as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. P. S.The general commanding expects you to keep him constantly advised of the progress of affairs in your front, and in case of an en- gagement he wishes to hear from you at least once every half h6ur; always in writing, if possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. WAu DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., July 6, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, Corinth, Miss.: M~ DEAR Sn~: This introduces Governor William Sprague, of Rhode Island. He is now Governor for the third time and Senator elect of the United States., I know the object of his visit to you. He has my cheerful consent to go, but not my direction. He wishes to get you and part of your force, one or both, to come here. You already know I should be exceedingly glad of this, if in your judgment it could be Page 302 302 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXUT. without endangering positions and operations in the Southwest; and I now repeat what I have more than once said by telegraph: Do not come or send a man if in your judgment it will endanger any point you deem important to hold or endanger or delay the Chattanooga expedition. Still please give my friend Governor Sprague a fall and fair hear- ing. Yours, very truly, A. LINCOLX. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 6, 18621%30 a. m. Brig. Gem S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Commanding Third Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to say that he has information, which is supposed to be reliable, that the Confederate Army with Lee, Jackson, Johnston, Longstreet, & c., are very near us, and that we may look for an attack at any moment. Please have your troops ready for action at daybreak under arms and your batteries in position. Endeavor to hold your own against the first attack with the fewest possible number of troops consistent with safety, so as to bring fresh troops repeatedly into action as the attack of the enemy continues. General Sumners corps is in reserve behind you. Slocums division can support Kearny, provided there is no attack within an hour after daybreak. Prosecute as speedily as possible with your working parties the work which has been assigned you. The general commanding expects you to keep him constantly ad. vised of the progress of affairs in your front, and in case of an engage- ment he wishes to hear from you at least once every half hour, if pos- sible. Reserve ammunition will be loaded in wagons, ready to send forward ~as soon as your ordnance officers call for it, at the ammunition landing. You had better push it up as rapidly as possible. Very respeetfufly, your obedient servant, [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 6, 18621 a m. Brig. Gen. FITZ JOHN PORTER Commanding Fifth Provisic~nal Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general directs me to say that he has information from a prisoner, which is supposed to be reliable, that the Confederate forces under Generals Jackson, Longstreet, Johnston, & c, are near us, and that an attack may be expected at any moment. Hunt should have his batteries harnessed at daybreak. In case of an attack, your troops should be under arms at once. It will not be nec- essary for you to get your infantry under arms unless you hear heavy firing. In the event of an attack, the General Headquarters will be near the barn near your headquarters, where you will report for orders Page 303 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 303 Dont advance your troops unless absolutely necessary, as the gen- eral commanding desires to keep your command fresh to follow up a repulse, which he thinks will be a necessary result if the enemy attacks. If there is any unfinished work on your bridges, please push them as rapidly as possible. A. V. COLBURK, Assistant Adjutant-General. Reserve ammunition will be loaded in wagons, ready to send forward as soon as your ordn ance officers call for it, at the ammunition land- ing. You had better~ push it up as rapidly as possible. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, July 6, 1862. Brigadier-General KEYES, Commanding Fourth Corps: GENERAL: Information, supposed to be reliable, has reached these headquarters that the Confederate forces under Lee, with Longstreet, Jackson, Johnston, & c., are very near us in front of our whole line, and that an attack may be expected at any moment. The general commanding directs that you have your command under arms a little before daybreak, your batteries in position, your men on the alert, and your pickets as well thrown out as possible. Endeavor to get Couchs division in position as soon as possible after daylight, concerting the movement with Generals Heintzelman and Hooker. Use the fewest possible number of troops consistent with security to repel the first attacks of the enemy in order to bring up fresh troops to oppose his renewed attacks. The corps of General Sumner is in reserve to support your corps and that of H~intzelman. The entire corps of Porter is also in reserve on the right, ready to be thrown to any point it may be needed. Inform the general at once what ammunition you need and what cali- ber you require. The gunboats will cover your flank effectually and fully, and if the trees have not been cut down which intercept the view of the gunboats, put a heavy additional force at once to accomplish that important object. If within an hour after daylight you are not attacked, you are to put your working parties to work in completing your defenses. Be sure to establish by means of flags the range for the gunboats and to have a signal officer on duty with you. The reserve ammunition loaded up. Send your ordnance officers to the depot to see to the matter, that ammunition may be brought up with certainty and celerity as it may be required. The General Headquarters will be established, in case of an engage- ment, at the barn near Sykes headquarters. The spot will be indicated by a small national color. In the event oC the headquarters leaving the place, aides will remain to designate the place they have gone to. Communicate frequently to headquarters as to the progress of affairs, at least once every half hour in case of an engagement, and always in writing, if possible. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. V. COLBUItX, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 304 304 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL FORT MONROE, July 6, 18629 a. m. Hon. E. IVL STANTON: Generals Porter and Naglee arrived here at 6 this morning from General McClellan on the way to Washington. The army occnpies a strong position, and I think you may dismiss all apprehension in regard to its safety. The forbearance of the enemy for five days is the best evidence that they have suffered severely and are in no condition to attack. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, July 6, 186210 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The enemy have retired from New Kent Court-House to White House. Our scouts approached within 14 miles of the latter point, captured one of Stuarts cavalry, and were fired on. Stuarts cavalry is there in con- siderable force. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FIFTH PROY. ARMY CORPS, No. 4. James River, Va., July 6, 1862. The commanding general congratulates the officers and men of the Fifth Corps of the Army of the Potomac on the perils .throngh which they have so honorably passed, and the success they have added by their valor to the glory of our arms in the following actions, namely: Battle of Yorktown, April 5. Siege of Yorktown, April 5 to May 4. Battle of New Bridge, May 24. Battle of Hanover Court-House, May 27. Battle of Mechanicaville, June 26 and 27. Battle of Chickahominy, June 27. Battle of New Market, Jnne 30. Battle of Turkey Bridge, June 30. Battle of Malvern, July 1. The regiments and batteries engaged are entitled to inscribe on their banners these battles. The commanding general has to inform the corps, and to offer his congratulations with the information, that he has received assurances from the Government at Washington that the efforts and successes above mentioned have received its attention and earned both approval and reward; and, further, that this reward will be duly apportioned and bestowed as soon as time will allow the detailed reports of the operations to be completed, specifying the individuals of all ranks par- ticularly worthy of the gratitude of their conntry. In making this acknowledgment to his own corps, the commanding general cannot omit to include in all his congratulations those brave fellow-soldiers whose assistance has arrived so timely in each of our honrs of need. The brigades of Newton, Taylor, and Bartlett, in Frank- lins corps, at the battle of (Jhickahominy, those of Meagher and Sickles, from Sumner and Heintzelman, as well as the division of General Couch Page 305 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 305 which fought by our side in the glorious fight of Malvern, form part of all our memories of those days. By command of Brig. Gen. F. J. Porter: FRED. T. LOCKE, Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 154. ~? Washington, July 6, 1862. * * * * * * * 2. Brig. Gen. H. Prince, U. S. Volunteers, is relieved from duty with the Army of Virginia, and will report to Major-General McClellan, com- manding Army of the Potomac. 3. The artillery officers of the graduating class from West Point, ex- cept those retained for the summer on duty at the Military Academy, will repair without delay to the Headquarters Army of the Potomac, and report to Major-General McClellan. By order of the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. WAiL DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., July 7, 1862. Major-General Dix: No cavalry or other force should move from Fort Monroe until the President arrives. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, July 7, 18624.40 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Arrived here safely with the advance of my command. I bring near 8,000 good men. Please give me any instructions you may have. I shall leave as soon as the bulk of the command arrives. It takes some time for all the vessels to pass the swash. If necessary, I will go right up. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, July 7, 1862. President LINCOLN: SIR: I beg to inclose a copy of a letter of this date from me to Major- General Pope, which shows the existing condition of matters in respect to my position and prospects and the morale of the troops as well as a more formal statement could do. The enemy are disturbing my communications by firing with field batteries upon transports, creating some annoyance. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General; Commanding. 20 R RVOL XI, PT II Page 306 306 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTolVLAxi, Camp near Harrisons Landing, July 7, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN POPE, Commanding Army of Virginia: GENERAL: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 4th instant, and to thank you for your offers of co-operation and assistance. I cordially approve your project of concentrating your troops. The departure from this wise principle has been the cause of all our trouble in front of Washington. I cannot too strongly represent to you the pressing necessity there is for the rapid concentration of your forces, for it is not yet determined which policy the enemy intends to pursue, whether to attack Washington or to bestow his entire attention upon the army. I am in a very strong natural I)osition, rendered stronger every day by the labor of the troops, and which in a few days will be impregnable. I hope in the course of to-morrow to seize a position on the right bank of the James, which will enable me to use either bank of that river at will. I am pushing up supplies as rapidly as possible, in ordertobe perfectly independent of the navigation of the river until strong re-en- forcements can reach me. The army is in admirable spirits and dis- cipline. It would fight better to-morrow than it ever did before. I shall carefully watch for any fault committed by the enemy and take advantage of it. As soon as Burnside arrives I will feel the force of the enemy and ascertain his exact position. If I learn that he has moved upon you I will move upon Richmond, do my best to take it, and endeavor to cut off his retreat. if you are not molested, I would urge that you lose not a day in the concentration of your troops, and at least push your cavalry so far for- ward as to partially divert the attention of the enemy from this army. The Army of the Potomac has lost heavily in killed and wounded during the series of desperate battles which it has given during the past two weeks, but I repeat it is in no way disheartened. Its morale, discipline, and desire to fight are not only unimpaired but increased. Although to insure success it is absolutely necessary that we promptly receive heavy re-enforcements, the spirit of this army is such that I feel unable to restrain it from speedily resuming the offensive, unless re- connaissances should develop so overwhelming a force of the enemy in front as to render it out of the question. Even in that event we will endeavor to find some weak point in the enemys lines which we will attack in order to break it. I would be glad to be in daily communication with you, both by tele- graph and by letter. I may say in conclusion that so far as my position is concerned I feel abundantly able to repulse any attack. T fear only for the other side of the river and for my communications. To preserve the morale of my men I must maintain my present posi- tion as long as it is possible. Therefore I shall not fall back unless absolutely forced to do so. Again thanking you for your cordial offer of support, I am, very sin- cerely, yours, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 307 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 307 GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, 1~o. 137. Camp near JJiarrisons Landing, Va., July 7, 62. The following regulations are published for the information and gov- ernment of all concerned: All regimental surgeons will report at once to their regiments, to take care of the regimental sick and wounded, sending no one to the transports who can be treated in regimental hospitals. Regimental surgeons will make all their reports, requisitions, & c., direct to the medical directors of army corps. The latter will examine and counter- sign all requisitions for medical supplies and hospital stores in their corps, except special requisitions, upon which the medical purveyor will issue; an abundance of supplies are on hand,and no excuse will be taken for deficiencies in these materials. The grade of brigade surgeons having been abolished, all brigade surgeons are relieved from duty with their brigades; those surgeons who have heretofore acted in this capacity will report immediately to the medical directors of their respective corps, who will organize them into a reserve corps. They will be under the orders of the medical directors of the corps, and will, under their directions, be assigned to the duty of establishing field hospitals in time of action, taking care of the sick and wounded who shall be sent to the rear from the field; for this purpose selecting such buildings as may be most convenient and suitable for the purpose, the senior surgeon being in charge, and held to a strict accountability that supplies of medical instruments, food, & c., details for nurses (the latter taken as far as possible from the bands), beatalltimesonhand; the field hospitals will be formed on the basis of one for each division. The Reserve Corps will also be liable to detail by the medical directors of corps for such duties as the exigencies of the service may require. The necessary transportation for this corps will be furnished by the division quartermasters. Regimental surgeons will on no pretext whatever be allowed to leave their regiments on the field for the purpose of taking care of the wounded and sick sent to the rear, but will remain with their com- mands, giving such aid and succor to the wounded as they may require on the spot. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., July 8, 1862. His Excellency the President of the United States will visit the troops of this army this afternoon, beginning at 5 oclock with Sum- ners corps, followed by Keyes, Heintzelmans, Franklins, and Por- ters corps, in the order named. He will be received with appropriate honors. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, )~ HDQRS. CAY. Div., ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 1. July 8, 1862. 1. The following organization of the cavalry forces in this army i Page 308 308 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. hilL published for the information and immediate action of the commanding officers of the various regiments and detachments: The Third Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Averell; First New York Cavalry, Colonel MciReynolds; Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Childs, are assigned to the First Brigade, Col. William W. Averell commanding. The Eighth flhinois Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Gamble; the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Colonel Gregg, and the Sixth New York (two squadrons), Lieutenant-Colonel McYicar, to the Second Brigade, Col. D. McM. Gregg commanding. Barkers squadron is assigned to the First [Second] Corps dArmee, General Sumner. De Laneys [?] squadron, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, to the Second [Third] Corps, General Heintzelman. One squadron of the Eighth Illinois to the Third [Fourth] Corps, General Keyes. One squadron of the First New York to the Fourth [Fifth] Corps, General Porter. One squadron of the First New York to the Fifth [Sixth] Corps, General Franklin. 2. The brigade commanders will make the details specified in the foregoing paragraphs at once. 3. Colonel Averell, commanding First Brigade, will keep the country in front of the right wing of the army and on its right thoroughly scouted over and patrolled by strong parties, and will make a daily report to these headquarters of the results of the operations of his bri- gade for the information of the general commanding the Army of the Potomac. 4. Colonel Gregg, commanding Second Brigade, will do the same in regard to the left wing of the army, making the same reports daily as ca~lled for from Colonel Averell. 5. Colonel Rush will see that his regiment both officers and men, become thoroughly acquainted with all the country in the vicinity of this army, and detail an officer and 20 men to report daily at the head- quarters of each army corps, to act as guides in that corps. 6. Each company will be allowed but one wagon, and in addition one wagon will be allowed to the officers of a squadron and one for the field and staff. All transportation over this in the regiment will be turned over to the quartermaster-in-chief of this army. 7. Brigade commanders will see that the regiments in this brigade are so located that they can have open country to form in, and, if pos- sible, on main avenues of communication. 8. The whole regular cavalry will be consolidated into as many com- plete squadrons as the numbers present will allow, and the officers will be assigned to each as the interests of the service may demand. By order of Brigadier-General Stoneman, commanding division: A. J. ALEXANDER, First I4eut., Fifth Cavalry, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 9, 18623 p. m. (Received 10.45 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: General Davidson found enemys rear guard 4 miles off on Long Bridge road this morning. Several prisoners confirm previous state Page 309 CHAr. XXTU.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 309 ment, and I am now confident that enemy is in full retreat, probably destined for immediate vicinity of Richmond. Our cavalry has not yet returned nor sent in news. No reasons as yet to believe that any portion of enemy have moved on Washington. Jackson was in front of us yesterday. Shall watch closely and keep you constantly informed of what transpires. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, July 9, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Fort Monroe: In reply to my inquiry you stated some time ago the number of regi- ments you had sent from Baltimore and Fort Monroe to General Mc- Clellan, but in some instances the strength of the regiments was not stated. Will you please to furnish me as quickly as possible with a statement showing the date and place from which each regiment was sent and the exact number of men in each, or as near an estimate as you can make. Specify the number of pieces of artillery and the num- ber of rank and file. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORT MONROE, July 9, 18625.45 p. m. (Received 6.20 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: In reply to your dispatch of to-day I have the honor to state that the Fifth New York had about 943 men, and the Second Delaware about 732. These regiments were sent from Baltimore, the former on the 31st March and the latter on the 31st May. Not having the records of the Middle Department, I may not give their strength to a man, but the returns in the Adjutant-Generals Office of those dates will show. Of the regiments furnished from here early in June, the First New York had 954 men, the Second New York 895, the Seventh New York 891, the Tenth New York 953, the Twentieth New York 1,024, the Sixteenth Massachusetts 1,009, the Twenty-ninth Massachusetts 842, the First Michigan 875, and the Twentieth Indiana 999. The One hundred and first New York arrived here and was sent directly to General McClellan from the transports, ~o that I cannot give the strength of the regiment. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General, Commanding. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, July 10, 18628 a. m. The PRESIDENT: All quiet. Enemy certainly beyond Malvern Hill. Hourly expect more definite news. Hope to have men refitted in all except artillery in two days. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General Page 310 310 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, YA. IIEiDQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley Landing, July 10, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. 0.: GENERAL: I would beg leave to call your attention most urgently to the necessity of taking immediate measures for filling up to the regu- lation standard all the regiments and batterii~s of the regulars and vol- unteers composing this army. This system is by far preferable in every respect to that of raising new regiments and batteries. If it can be done in no other way, I would suggest consolidating the old regiments into a small number of companies for each, and receiving the number of entire companies necessary to raise the regiments to the maximum standard. If it be. possible to fill up the existing skeleton companies it would be preferable, bat it is probable that much valuable time would be gained by following the course first suggested. I do not believe that any general system of recruiting for volunteers will succeed. It must be attempted for particular regiments and com- panies in the localities where they originated. Recruits scattered among the veteran regiments would soon become efficient, while a long time would be required to render raw recruits re4iable. The regular batteries (I may say the same of the volunteers) are very deficient in men. Commending this subject to the immediate attention of the Depart- ment, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., July 10, 1862. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: Arrived here last night. Saw the Secretary this morning. He is disposed to do all in his power to assist you. The proposed changes will be attended to at once, commencing with those most desired, and will be continued gradually till all are made. The pontoons are at New York, but will be ordered to Fort Monroe. The ferry-boats will be attended to.* R. B. MARCY. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., July 10, 1862. Brig. Gen. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General: GENERAL: I am informed this morning that Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan desires as many large ferry-boats as possible to be sent to him at once. You will please take immediate measures to have them sent to him. Yours, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. Some personal matter omitted Page 311 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 311 HEADQUARTERS ARMY CORPS, Fort Monroe, Va., July 10, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Department of Virginia: GENERAL: I have sent a flag of truce to City Point with Lieutenant Thorbora, with two of our own paroled officers whose time expires to- night, and who reported to me at the last moment, and some political prisoners whom I have discharged under a stringent parole, as author- ized by you. I would have ordered Lieutenant Darling, of the Second Artillery, who goes with them, to report to you, but I supposed he could not avail himself of the protection of the flag up and down the river if he did not confine himself strictly to the purpose for which it is sent. The 13-inch mortars have all been brought here from Yorktown; the 100 and 200 pound Parrott guns left there yesterday for this post. All the guns ordered removed by you have been sent here. The guns at Gloucester have been destroyed, as it was found exceedingly difficult to remove them. The guns remaining at Yorktown are fifty-four in number, chiefly of Richmond manufacture. Captain Gibson, of the Third Artillery, has been engaged very efficiently in aiding General Van Alen to make arrangements for the defense or evacuation of the place, as the exigencies of the service may require. I am sorry to report that Lieutenant Bayley and nine men of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, imprudently sent off in the direction of Rich- mond from Matthews County, were captured and the former wounded. I shall ascertain who is responsible for this imprudence. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY CORPS, Port Monroe, Va., July 10, 1862. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: I have just received your letter of this morning in regard to a portion of General Stonemans cavalry still here. When the President left Washington I received a dispatch by tele- graph from the Secretary of War to send no more troops to the Army of the Potomac until the Presidents arrival. After his return last evening I ordered transportation for the troops named in your note. They were embarking when the Secretarys dis- patch was received to follow General Emory. The transportation for them will be ready to-morrow morning, and they ought to reach Har- risons Landing to-morrow evening. 1 ought to have reported the re- ceipt of the Secretarys dispatch, but in the multiplicity of my engage. ments it was forgotten. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. CORINTH, MISS., July 10, 1862. (Received Washington, D C., July 10, 1862, 5 p. in.) The PRESIDENT: Governor Sprague is here. If I were to go to Washington I could advise but one thingto place all the forces in North Carolina, Virginia Page 312 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cuip. XXIII and Washington under one head, and hold that head responsible for the result. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General. Abstract from Tn-monthly Return of the Army of the Potomac, Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding, for July 10, 1862. Present for duty. Command. \ vS C 0 0, 04a 004 ~ oe ~4.04 ~e ~ no s~ ~ 58 p~ -.4 General staff U. S. Engineers (Duane) Engineer Brigade (Woodhury) Escort to headquarters (McIntyre) Provost guard (A. Porter) Total Second Army Corps (Sumners): Staff Sedgwicks divisiou Richardsons division Artillery Reserve (Bartlett) Total Third Army Corps (Heinizelmans): Staff Artffier~ Reserve (Be Russy) Hookersd ivision - . - Kearnys division Total. - - - Fourth Army Corps (Keyes): Staff. ..... Artillery (Wests) . First Division (Couchs) Second Division (Pecks) . - -. Total Fifth Provisional Army Corps (Fitz John Por- ters): Staff Artillery Reserve (Hunts) Morells division Sykes division Seymours division Total Sixth Provisional Army Corps (Franklins): Staff 1st New York Cavalry Slocums division W. F. Smiths division Total. Stonemans cavalry division. - - - Fort Monroe Va., and vicinity (Dix) Quartermasters guard (Ingalls) Total Grand total 46 4 52 4 48 1, 180 99 841 173 1,230 100 884 46 240 1, 457 lOd 1, 035 57 288 1, 635 143 1,244 154 2, 289 2, 387 2, 887 3, 367 6 6 9 328 7, 777 7, 804 9, 167 11, 535 12 283 5, 768 6, 052 7, 383 10, 069 14 13 275 288 390 427 18 630 13,820 14,144 16,946 22,040 44 11.... 11 13 11 408 441 18 304 7, 621 7, 372 10, 096 12, 796 14 303 6,731 7,034 9,208 13,063 10 629 14, 699 1.4, 764 19, 723 26, 313 42 8. 8 8 10. 29 654 683 763 961 36 275 6,398 6,673 7,871 11,423 324 6, 178 6, 502 7, 967 13, 584 636 13, 230 13, 866 16, 609 25, 978 36 4 61 1, 703 1, 764 2, 077 2, 909 104 322 7, 979 8, 297 9, 756 13, 901 193 4,517 4,706 5,605 7,146 237 6, 004 6, 078 7, 467 9, 972 7 817 20. 203 20, 845 24, 909 33, 932 111 9 9 9 9 6 98 104 154 171 286 6,652 6,939 7,548 9,872 17 454 9,933 10,387 11,986 15,747 21 755 16, 683 17, 439 19, 697 25,799 38 194 4,526 4,716 5,386 6,97~ 493 9, 734 10, 186 ii, 248 12, 154 26 19 265 284 309 477 706 14, 525 15, 186 16, 943 19, 609 26 4, 327 95, 449 98, 631 117, 714 157, 038 335 GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTO1~EAC, No. 138. ~ Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., July 10, 62. I. At his own request, Brig. Gen. Stewart Van Vijet is relieved from 312 Page 313 CHAP. XXIII.] 313 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. duty as chief quartermaster of this army, and will proceed to Washing- ton, and report for duty to the Quartermaster-General. In issuing this order, the general commanding cheerfully acknowledges the valuable services rendered by General Yan Vijet in the organization and admin- istration of his department in connection with this army. II. Lient. Col. Rufus Ingalls, aide-d~-camp, is announced as chief quartermaster of the Army of the Potomac, and will be obeyed and re- spected accordingly. III. Surg. Jonathan Letterman is announced as medical director of this army, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assi8tant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS, Harrison8 Bar, July 10, 1862. His Excellency THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: SIR: After some inquiry, I find that my opinions agree essentially with the opinions of several officers whom I regard as the most able in this army, at the head of which is General Barnard, of the Engineers. I therefore venture to address a letter to Your Excellency. The simple failure of this army to reach Richmond has given a se- rious aspect to our affairs, and after much reflection I have considered the subject of first importance to be the position which this army ought to occupy during the next two months. Can this army remain here encamped at Harrisons Bar? Clearly not, since the confinement to a small space, the heat, and sickliness of this camp would nearly destroy the army in two months, though no armed force should assail it. Moreover, the enemy being in possession of both banks of the James River above and below us, he will shortly find the meaiis to cut us off from our supplies, or shut us up by means of fortifications and his abundant artillery, in such a man- ner as will give him time, ample time, to capture Washington before we could possibly go to its rescue. Can this army leave its present camp to go and attack Richmond? No; it cannot. To make this army to march on Richmond with any hope of success it must be re-enforced by at least 100,000 good troops. No officer here, whose qpinion is worth one penny, will recommend a less number. To bring troops freshly raised at the North to this coun- try in the months of July, August, and September would be to cast our resources into the sea. The raw troops would melt away and be ruined forever. Some of our officers think that to remove this army to the neighbor- hood of Washington would be a virtual abandonment of our cause. I cannot regard the matter in that light at all. This army has not been defeated in battle, nor has it been repulsed in this campaign as often as it has repulsed the enemy. It is now in a strong position, with all its baggage. Sickness, and the approach of a more sickly season, together with the superiority in numbers and sanitary advantages on the part of the enemy, render it proper and advisable that we should return to our capital and a healthy country. IDid not the Confederates return to their capital from Manassas, and afterward from Williamsburg did they not retreat in confusion? In the West the two armies have often been successful and unsuccessful, and have each frequently retreated i Page 314 314 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. Missouri and elsewhere. Those fluctuations have in the end inured to our advantage. To shut up this army on the James River is to make certain its de- struction or its neutralization within the next two months, and then the North will be at the mercy of the South and the sport of the caprice of Europe. Bring this army back to the neighborhood of Washington, to spa- cious, healthy camps, pass some laws which I could suggest, and at the end of three months it will be worth much more against an enemy than it was last March. The laws I refer to would force our able- bodied men to join the army and to remain with it; would estop rogues and pettifoggers from using the courts of law to rob such as are absent fighting, and would constrain to the public service all supplies and means of transportation at a reasonable price. When a large army reaches, or is placed in, a position where it can- not hold the enemy in check nor operate effectively against him, it is a military axiom to move that army without delay. With a large, well-appointed army in any camp from which it can be employed we may bid defiance to our enemies. This army cannot be employed here, and the enemy may close its egress, for which reasons and many others I respectfully recommend that immediate instructions may be issued for its withdrawal. All the available gunboats and men-of-war ought to assist in the movement, which ought to be made within the next forty-eight hours. I have the honor to be, respectfully, Your Excellencys most obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Brigadier- Ueneral, Fourth Army Corp8. WAR DEPARTMENT, July 11, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, Corinth: The President has this day made the following order, which I hasten to communicate to yQu: ExncuTmvE M~sIoN, Washington, July 11, 1862. Ordered, That Maj. Gen. Henry W. Halleck be assigned to command the whole land forces of th~ United States as General-in-Chief, an4 that he repair to this capi- tal so soon as he can with safety to the positions and operations within the department under his charge. A. LINCOLN. You will please acknowledge the receipt of this order, and state when you may be expected here. Your early presence is required by many circumstances. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. CORINTH, MISS., July 11, 18623 p. m. (Received Washington, D. 0., 5.50 p. in.) ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: Your orders of this date are this moment received. General Grant Page 315 0BhP. XXIII.] COBRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 315 next in command, is at Memphis. I have telegraphed to him to imme- diately repair to this place. I will start for Washington the moment I can have a personal inter- view with General Grant. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 11, 18628 a. m. (Received 5.11) p. in.) The PRESIDENT: The enemy have certainly retreated, but it has been in good order and with a fafr amount of wagons. Our cavalry follow their rear guard closely and have taken a few prisoners, but have made no decided im- pression. None of the enemy appear to have crossed the Long Bridge, but all to have gone in direction of Richmond, some crossing White Oak Swamp; none toward mouth of Chickahominy now. Considerable force of enemy at Haxalls yesterday, probably cavalry, almost entirely. Stonewall Jackson not dead. Prisoners all state that I had 200,000 enemy to fight. A good deal more than two to one, and they knowing the ground. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. BERKELEY, VA., July 11, 18623 p. m. The PRESIDENT To-day received letter from General R. E. Lee, offering to return to me on parole our wounded. I have accepted the offer, and will send transports as soon as he designates the place. Enemy in some force at Haxalls. None in direction of Long Bridge or Lower Chickahominy. None nearer than 7 miles from here on this side James River. We are very strong here now, so far as defensive is concerned. Hope you will soon make us strong enough to advance and try it again. All in fine spirits. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley, July 11, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: GENERAL: My cavalry yesterday pressed upon the enemys rear guard. All the last accounts I learned yesterday evening were to the effect that his rear guard was not more than 7 miles from the White Oak Swamp, on the Long Bridge road, and that the main body had crossed the swamp, none of them having crossed the Long Bridge, but all apparently moving upon Richmond. The country south of us, ~. Charles City Court-House and north of the Chickahominy, seems to be entirely clear of them, and our cavalry is covering that entire region. A considerable force was yesterday at Haxalls and Malvern Hill. The rebels are said to have had plenty of transportation, and their re- treat has been concluded in an orderly manner. Our cavalry have taken a few prisoners and killed a few. The healt Page 316 316 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. of our men continues fair. I have more complaints of ill-health on the part of general officers than from any others. Every possible sanitary precaution will be taken to insure the health of the command. Pro- visions and medical stores abound. The men are now having a good rest, and will be completely refitted in a day or two. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAIN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 11, 1862. lln~L CARTER, Esq., Shirley: Mv DEAR SIR: Your letter of yesterday is received. Allow me to express my thanks to you for the humane and Christian conduct you and your family have displayed toward my helpless sick and wounded. My attention had already been called to this subject. Without pans ing to inquire or desiring to learn whether you.are friend or foe to the cause I have the honor to serve, it was my intention to do all in my power to alleviate in your case the sufferings caused by the inevitable exigencies of this unhappy war. Permit me here to state that it ever has been, and ever shall be, my constant effort to confine the effects of this contest to the armed masses and political organization directly concerned in carrying it on. I have done my best to secure protection to private property, but I confess that circumstances beyond my control have often defeated my purposes. I have not come here to wage war upon the defenseless, upon non- combatants, upon private property, nor upon the domestic institutions of the land. I and the army I command are fighting to secure the Union and maintain its Constitution and laws, and for no other purpose. I regret to learn you have suffered, and the inconvenience you have endured. I send this by a confidential officer of my staff, who is instructed to ascertain from you what kind of a safegnard will best secure your per- son and property, how I can best indemnify you for your losses, and in what manner the other requests you make can best be carried out. Again expressing my thanks for the noble spirit of humanity you have shown toward men whom you probably regard as bitter foes, I am, sir, with the highest respect, your obedient servant GEG. B. MCCLEILAN. Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 139. Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., July11, 62. I. No one will be sent to the hospital camp or floating hospitals ex- cept on the approval of the medical director and the commander of the corps to which he belongs, which approval will be given in no case where the men can be treated in their regiments. Men not serving in corps, divisions, or brigades must have the approval of the medical director of the army. II. No person will be allowed to leave on the sick transports excep Page 317 4 CHAP~XX~UI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 on the certificate of the senior reserve surgeon of the division (approved by the proper military authority), stating that he has personally ex- amined the case, and that leaving the army is necessary to save life or prevent permanent disability. A similar certificate will be required of the senior surgeon of the hospital camp, approved by the commanding officer and the medical director of this army, before any one from that camp will be allowed to leave on any vessel used as a transport for the sick. III. The medical director of each corps will detail daily an officer from the reserve corps of surgeons of each division, whose duty it will be minutely to inspect the police and sanitary condition of the division. At the expiration of his tour of duty this officer will report in writing to the medical director of the corps the state of the police of each regi- ment, and whether the orders in regard thereto have been carried into effect. He will also report upon the sanitary condition of the division; the manner in which the regimental hospitals are conducted; the man- ner in which the officers perform their duties in regard to the care and attention of the sick and wounded, and in regard to supplies. He will make such suggestions as in his opinion the interest of the service may require for promoting the health and efficiency of the troops. IF. Medical directors of corps will at once report to their command- ers any violation of the orders in reference to police in any portion of their commands, and will make to the medical director of the army a weekly report, condensed from the weekly reports received by them, of the police and sanitary condition of the corps, with such observations as the case may seem to demand. Commanders of corps will afford every facility to medical officers in the performance of these duties. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WIJiLIAMS, As8istant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley July 12, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U ~. Army: GENERAL: The last information received from the cavalry scouts shows that the divisions Lof] Longstreet and Hill did cross the Chicka- hominy at Long Bridge in their retreat. I have not yet ascertained the direction they afterward took, but hope to learn in a few hours. The country along the Lower Chickahominy is entirely free from the presence of the enemy. There is nothing new of any interest to add, except that every hour convinces me of the great result which could be gained now by the army were it promptly re-enforced even to a moderate extent. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, July 12, 1862. Col. R. INGALLS, Chief Quarterma8ter Army of the Potomac, Harrisons Bar: COLONEL: Your dispatches of the 8th, 9th, 10th,, and llth# are re *Requj~ition8 for supplies Page 318 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. 318 [CHAP. XXIII. ceived by me to-day. They have been so far as possible attended to in my absence. I returned last night. The sudden ijood of volunteers has overworked all our depots and exhausted some of our articles of supply. I fear disappointment in your supply of cauteens, which were ordered, when first required, in July. All schooners fit for your pnrpo~e in Baltimore and Philadelphia have been ordered to Fort Monroe, and Colonel Tompkins was ordered to send to that place from New York two hundred sails, if he can get them, all in bailast. I have written to General McClellan on this sub- ject.* The sacrifice of deck loads of hay would give you much room on the very large fleet of supply vessels at Fort Moni~oe and in the James River. The thirty steamers which you had at Harrisons Bar, with many since sent to Fort Monroe and the James River, ought to move over 30,000 men on their own decks. In addition to this, all of General Burusides transportation has been sent back to you. He moved at one trip some 12,000 men. Wagons, horses, artillery can be shipped after the greater part of the men are moved. Orders have been sent to Philadelphia and New York to hasten back immediately all sick trans- ports, which have sometimes been delayed by those in charge of them. You now have all the steamboats of the coast which can be procured withont breaking up the great ferries and routes by which our new levies are to be brought to the seat of war, excepting the few employed in supplying the Southern posts. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, July 12, 1862. SIR: The general commanding directs that you cause your command to be prepared to resume active operations at the earliest possible mo- ment. You will please ascertain, by personal inspection, in what respects the equipment of your troops is deficient, and take immediate measures to complete it, reporting from day to day the progress made. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, [S.. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. BERKELEY, July 13, 18628 a. m. ABRAhAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: I have nothing of special interest to report to-day. Enemy still at Haxalls; too strong for cavalry scouts to drive back, but not in any large force. A few rifle-shots fired from Fort Powhatan yesterday. Enemy has a rear guard in some little force on Long Bridge road, 8 miles from here. Our cavalry is active and constantly pressing him. We have ample supplies of provisions. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, [Major-General,] Commanding. * Letter not found Page 319 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 319 EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, July 13, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: M~ DEAR SIR: I am told that over 160,000 men have gone into your army on the Peninsula. When I was with you the other day we made out 86,500 remaining, leaving 73,500 to be accounted for. I be- lieve 23,500 will cover all the killed, wounded, and missing in all your battles and skirmishes, leaving 50,000 who have left otherwise. Not more than 5,000 of these have died, leaving 45,000 of your army still alive and not with it. I believe half or two-thirds of them are fit for duty to-day. Have you any more perfect knowledge of this than I have? If I am right, and you had these men with you, you could go into Richmond in the next three days. How can they be got to you, and how can they be prevented from getting away in such numbers for the future? A. LINCOLN~ HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE, Westover, July 13, 1862. Capt. A. J. ALEXANDER Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: SIR: I have the honor to report that yesterday morning Lieutenant- Colonel Owen went with three squadrons of cavalry toward Long Bridge for the purpose of ascertaining if the enemy had crossed the Chickahominy at that point. He met the enemy in considerable force at Saint Marys Church, S miles beyond our pickets, on the Long Bridge road. He attacked and drove these pickets back to their infantry support, but coald push them no farther. Captain White, Third Pennsylvania Cavalry, was sent to cross the Chickahominy at Jones Bridge and communicate with the pickets of Colonel Campbell, in New Kent County. A squadron of the Fourth Pennsylvania was sent last night to Charles City Court-House to occupy and hold the road leading from that point to Long Bridge, in order to cover the movements of Captain White. In the operations of yesterday there was some skirmishing at SaintMary~ Church, in which some of the enemy were believed to have been killed and wounded. Three prisoners were taken; two of them were sent to the provost-marshal-general, but the other was taken from the men who were bringing him to me by Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith. An ignorant contraband on his way to Richmond from New Kent was also taken ~and sent up. Later.I have just received a dispatch from Captain White at Jones Ford: No trace of the enemy there now; no troops at Providence (Bartons) Ford since Thursday. I shall hear from him again to-night. As soon as I have the maps. corrected for the country in the direction of Long Bridge I will send up a sketch. Four companies Fifth U. S. Cavalry are out with Brigadier-General Barnard, engineer, on the Charles City road. There are all together fourteen companies out from this brigade at the present time, as follows, viz: Eight on Long Bridge road, two over Page 320 320 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA [CHAP. XXIII. the Chickahominy, four with engineer, and one company with cattle herd. Respectfully, WM. W. AVERELL, Colonel, Commanding. U. S. GUNBOAT GALENA James River, July 13, 1862. Major MYER, /~ignal Officer, U. & Army: SIR: I beg leave to express my opinion of the value of the mode of signaling invented by yourself and used in the Army. It can be seen when the Navy signals cannot, by reason of calm weather, be distin- guished; in misty weather it can be read farther, as the motions of the flag are more visible than mere differences of color. On the 30th of June and 1st of July, when we were required to cover the flanks of the army by firing upon an unseen enemy, yonr signals served to direct the fire, and the signals being given with the utmost precision, I hope our fire was thereby made useful. Your method is no new thing with me, since I saw it used in Georgia, between Freeborn Cut and Wrig.ht River, across the Savannah River, at a distance which astonished me, and where Navy signals could not have been seen. For the Navy I think your code invaluable. I take the liberty of adding that your signal officers on board, Lieu- tenants Clum and Ellis, have been attentive, skillful, willing, and very pleasant shipmates. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN RODGERS, Commander. BERKELEY, July 14, 18627.30 a. m. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, Preszdent: Nothing new of interest. Position of enemys rear guard unchanged; varies from 6 to 8 miles from us. Health of troops improving some- what. Food, forage, and medical supplies abundant. Will get quite a large number of our sick and well from the enemy to-day. Have in- formed General Lee that we are ready to negotiate a general exchange, and asked him to appoint some one to meet General Dix. Everything going on very well. I am very anxious to have my old regiments filled up rather than have new ones formed. What of Burn- side? GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, [Major- General, Commanding.] WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, July 14, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: General Burnsides force is at Newport News r 8hort notice, one way or the other, when ordered.~ eady to move; on A. LINCOLN Page 321 Cuii. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 321 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons LandiRg, July 14, 1862. His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: Our cavalry pickets communicated yesterday with the pickets of Colonel Campbell near New Kent Court-House, crossing the Chicka- hominy. We thus had a communication between Williamsburg and here. No considerable force of the enemy was found, and it does not seem that he is making any demonstration on Yorktown or Williamsburg. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, [Major- General, Gommanding.] WAR DEPARTMENT, July 14, 18*i2. Major-General HiLLECK, Corinth, Miss.: I am very anxiousalmost impatientto have you here. Have due regard to what you leave behind. When can you reach here ~l A. LINCOLN. CORINTH, Miss., July 15, 186210.40 a. m. The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: General Grant has just arrived from Memphis. I am in communi- cation with General Buell and Governor Johnson in Tennessee. Hope to finally arrange disposition of troops, and to re-enforce Curtis by to- morrow, and to leave Thursday morning, the 17th. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 15, 1862. (Received 8 p. in.) His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: Your telegram of yesterday [July 13] has been received. The differ- ence between the effective force of troops and that expressed in returns is considerable in every army. All commanders find the actual strength less than the strength represented on paper. I have not my own re- turns for the tn-monthly period since arriving at Fort Monroe at hand at this moment, but eveii on paper I will not, I am confident, be found to have received 160,000 officers and men present, although present and absent my returns will be accountable for that number. You can arrive at the number of absentees, however, better by my return of July 10, which will be ready to send shortly. I find from official reports that I have present for duty: Officers, 3,215; enlisted men, 85,450; in all present for duty, 88,665; absent by authority, 34,472; without au- thority, 3,778; present and absent, 144,407. The number of officers and men present sick is 16,619. The medical director will fully explain the causes of this amount of sickness, which I hope will begin to decrease shortly. Thus the number of men really absent is 38,250. Unquestionably of the number present some are ah. sentsay 40,000 will cover the absentees. I quite agree with you that 21 R RY@L XI, PT II Page 322 322 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. more thaii one-half these men are probably fit for duty to-day. I have frequently called the attention lately of the War Department to the evil of absenteeism. I think that the exciting of the public press to persistent attack upon officers and soldiers absent from the army, the employment of deputy marshals to arrest and send back deserters, sum- mary dismissal of officers whose names are reported for being absent without leave, and the publication of their names, will exhaust the remedies applicable by the War Department. It is to be remembered that many of those absent by authority are those who have got off either sick or wounded or under pretense of sickness or wounds, and having orginally pretext of authority are still reported absent by authority. If I could receive back the absentees and could get my sick men up I would need but small re-enforcements to enable me to take Richmond. After the battle of Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, & c., most of these men got off. Well men got on board hospital boats taking care of sick, & c. There is always confusion and haste in shipping and taking care of wounded after a battle. There is no time for nice examination of permits to pass here or there. I can now control people getting away better, for the natural oppor- tunities are better. Leakages by desertion occur in every army and will occur here of course, but I do not at all however anticipate any- thing like a recurrence of what has taken place. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. FORT MONROE, July 15, 18623.45 p. m. C. P. WOLCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War: General Stevens has arrived. Four of his regiments are here. His division, of six regiments, has about 4,000 men. General Wright is coming with four regiments. General Stevens says General Hunter intends line send 8,000 or 9,000 men. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, July 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix: Let General Hunters troops be disembarked and placed under com- mand of General Buruside until further order. What number are com- ing~ EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, July 15, 1862. Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe: The transports that bring General Hunters troops to Fort Monroe should remain there until further order, unless some necessity requires them to go elsewhere. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 323 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 323 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley, July 15, 1862~. His Excellency Gov. E. D. MORGAN: GOVERNOR: I am sure that in the present emergency you will pardoa me for venturing upon a few suggestions as to the most useful manner of increasing the strength of this army. The greatest benefit that can be conferred upon it would be to fill tw the maximum the old regiments, which have so nobly sustained the honor of the Union and their State. I would prefer 50,000 recruits for my old regiments to 100 000 mcii organized in new regiments, and I cannot too earnestly urg~ the un- perative necessity of following this system. By far the best arrangement would be to fill up all the old companies.. If that cannot be done the next best thing is to consolidate the ek~ companies and add new ones to each regiment. We have here the ma-- terial for making excellent officers in the regiments. The men tried andy proven in many hard-fought battles are infinitely to be preferred t~ any new appointments. More than that, they have won their promotion.. Policy and gratitude alike demand that their claims should be recog- nized. With the old regiments thus filled up the whole army would in a very few weeks be ready for any service. New regiments would re- quire sevem~l months to fit them for service, and they would be brought; into action with untried and in many cases unfit officers. Again, I would earnestly impress upon you the great mistake of bringing men into the field for a less period than three years or the war. The contact of such troops with those enlisted for three years~ would soon breed dissatisfaction among the latter, while the term of service of the former would expire about the time they became valuable to the service. I would also urge the proprietynecessity ratherof sending recruits to the regiments as rapidly as enlisted. They will become soldiers here in one-tenth of the time they could in the home depots, and would have all the advantages of contact with the veteran& who now compose this Army. I have also to ask your attention to the many officers and men who. are now in the North on sick leave, & c. Many thousands of these are fit for duty, and should at once be made to join their regiments. May~ I ask the earnest efforts of Your Excellency to secure this very im-- portant end? I would also request that no officer who has resigned froim this army be commissioned in another regiment unless furnished with a special recommendation to that effect from the commander of his (liviS ion or army corps. I regret to say that many officers have resigned to. avoid the consequence of cowardly conduct,inefficiency, & c. It is a melancholy fact that, while many noble exceptions are to be found, the officers of volunteers are, as a massperhaps I should say were (for the worst are sifted out)greatly inferior to the men they command. Trusting that you will pardon me for the liberty I have taken inn making these suggestions, and that you will be good enough to give them your careful consideration, I have the honor to be, sir, most re speotfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Gommanding. Page 324 324 THE PENLN~ULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIII. BERKELEY, VA., July 16, 18627 a. m. (Received 1.20 p. in.) ABRAhAM LINCOLN, President: None of the enemy retired by the Long Bridge; all have gone in di- rection of Richmond. Their pickets are strong, ranging about 7 miles from this place. What news has General Pope from his front? I would be glad to be kept informed by him. Generals Dix and Hill are to meet on Thursday at Haxalls to arrange general exchange of prisoners. II hope to see Bnrnside to.day and ar- range with him. Will telegraph yon fully when I have conferred with him. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 16, 1862. ()ol. D. B. SACKET, Inspector- General: COLONEL: It is the desire of the major-general commanding that the operations of the inspector-generals department in connection with this army should be materially extended, to the end that the army may profit by the fullest capability of the department for usefulness and result. The sphere of that department is, in the view of the commanding general, a very wide and important one. Throngh it the general sees - the interior of the army; he learns its efficiency, its discipline, its capa- bility for its task, its feeling, its tone; throngh it he becomes acquainted with his troopshe knows the personnel of his army. Nor is the field for investigation limited here. Everything that concerns an army, whether as respects its interior organization, discipline, and efficiency, or its relation to the special or general military pnrposes in view, every branch of service, every character of duty, in fine, is within the range of subjects of the department. It is obvious that casual inspections of troops upon special orders to that effect will in nowise render an inspector-general intimately ac- quainted with an army. Frequent visits among the troops, daily in- ~pections, the constant observation of military persons and objects, and, from various points of view, the cultivation of a habit of inquiry, in fine, with regard to all subjects of military concern pertaining to the army, will alone enable an officer of the department to be np to the level of the reqnirements of his place. Al am directed by the commanding general to communicate to you the foregoing, confident that yon will share his views with regard to the greater usefulnes~ indicated herein for your department. He is not insensible to the value of your services and those of Major Davis to this army, and he trusts that you will not see in these instruc- tions any indication of discontent with the manner in which yon have discharged your duties. The preparation of the army to resume the offensive at an early day, however, demands renewed exertions on the part of all the staff departments, and requires the utmost result that cach departineni is capable of producing. It is this necessity which has drawn forth these instructions. It is desired that hereafter on every day inspections be made of some branc Page 325 (IHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 325 of the service or body of troops connected with this army. Aides-de- camp of the general~s staff will, as you may require their services, re- port to you for inspection duty. The discipline, instruction, equipment, health, and comfort of the troops, the character of the supplies furnished the troops, their quan- tity and quality, the police and healthfulness of camps are subjects which are naturally indicated as those to receive primary attention. Other subjects in their order. The simple detection of deficiencies, whether in descriptiou or equipment in the inspection of troops, I aim to add, is not enough to accomplish any desirable purpose. The opportunity afforded for communicating instructions or for directing a remedy should be improved. Clothed with the authority of the commanding general you can remedy much on the spot. It is anticipated that this authority will of course be used prudently and wisely, but ex officio you can direct the execution of existing regu- lations or orders, the supply of deficient equipments, or require the enforcement of police and sanitary measures, & c. Full written reports are not expected except in special cases or where objects require special mention to insure necessary action. Ver- bal reports to the chief of staff will in the general case answer every purpose. If am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-*9eneral. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, INo. 205. Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., July 16, 186~. * * * * * * XV. Brig. Gen. Daniel E. Sickles will proceed to New York for the purpose of pushing forward recruiting for the regiments of his brigade. He will send on the recruits in squads as they are collected, calling upon the Quartermasters Department for the necessary transportation. The general commanding relies upon General Sickles to use his utmost exertions to hasten the filling up of his regiments and to rejoin his command at the earliest possible moment. XVI. Brig. Gen. Thomas F. Meaglier will proceed on the recruiting service for the regiments of his brigade under the special instructions of General Sumner. He will send on the recruits in squads as they are collected, calling upon the Quartermasters Department for the necessary transportation. The general commanding relies upon Gen- eral Meagher to use his utmost exertions to hasten the filling up of his regiments, and to rejoin his command at the earliest possible moment. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. WASHINGTON, July 17, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley: There is no enemy in my front. My cavalry pickets extend 25 miles south of Fredericksburg, and Hatch, with 2,500 men, passes through Gordonsville to-day en route for Charlottesville. He will destroy th Page 326 2326 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. CITAI-. XXIII. Virginia Central road and the road from Charlottesville to Lynchburg. If it be possible he will push cavalry in several directions to James River and destroy the canal. Culpeper is occupied by a considerable force, with Banks, Sigel, and one division of McDowell in supporting distance. JNO POPE, Major-General. FORT MONROE, July 18, 1862i p. m. Eon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just returned from General McClellans headquarters, and have much to say to you. Wish you to hear it before any very important .changes are made. Can I telegraph you freely or can I go to Wash- ington for a day? I think it important that we should consult. I think no man knows McClellans present position better than myself. A. E. BURNSLDE, Major- General. FORT MONROE, July 18, 18625 p. m. Eon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I did not doubt the security in telegraphing by cipher, but simply questioned the expediency of telegraphing freely in reference to pgrsons and events. If I can get off I will avail myself of your confidence and go gp to see you to-morrow. If not, I will telegraph fully. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. HARRISONS LANDING, VA., July 18, 1862. General M. C. MEIGS, Qt& artermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I was much gratified to receive your letter of the 13th, ~ind trust you will always give me the benefit of what suggestions you may think fit to offer. I had already stopped all the transportation (horses,mules, andwag- eons) afloat at the Iortress, where it now remains subject to my orders. I~Lany of the horse teams were broken up to fill up the batteries; mean- time some good artillery horses were sent from Philadelphia. So far ~is I can learn the batteries have received horses, as many as were re- quired, on demand. I still have for issue some 200 fit for artillery and 4cavalry service. We have too much cavalry for any real advantage ito us. Many were of opinion that we had too much land transportation, but it was generally supposed we had a far greater number of wagons than ~n actual inspection shows we have. We have here now about 2,600 wagons for service with troops, engineer and supply trains; each regi- mnent is allowed six. There are some 106,000 men in this army present Page 327 Ow. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 327 and Burnside is expected to re-enforce it with thirty regiments. The operations may require the use of considerable land carriage. I do not think we have too much. As the matter stands no~v, the amount can easily and quickly be augmented or reduced, as circumstances may render necessary. There will be no trouble if they are kept in the proper condition and place in encampments and on marches. They gave infinite cause for anxiety and embarrassment in the last week .of June. It is a miracle so few were lost. The spectacle at times of en- tangled wagons with batteries and troops was frightful, though we reached here in good order and spirits. The army is a magnificent one to-day. All we require now is more men and generals full of health and desire to go into Richmond. We must and soon can go forward. This army must not go back one foot. The commanding general is in excellent health and full of confidence, and is the pride and boast of his men. The Peninsula is sickly here, as it was at White House. White laborers cannot stand the climate; we have but few; we depend on contrabands chiefly. I have invariably made use of all fair means to increase the number. I brought away every man, woman, and child from the Pamunkey; that is, they took passage on our boats. I am sending along this river to Norfolk, even to North Carolina~ for colored laborers. Where the army actually is the negroes come in to a man almost. I hope next week to have the numbers much increased. I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant- Colonel, Aide-de- Camp, Chief Quarterma8ter. BERKELEY, July t9, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Some time since I found it necessary to institute the Fifth and Sixth Provisional Army Corps. I now apply that these provisional corps be made full corps by the President. Their commanders are among the ablest generals in the service. I also recommend that General Dixs command in this depart- ment be constituted an army corps. I desire to invest that able and excellent officer with all the power I can within my department, and it will be for the good of the service. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, July 19, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley: I have not yet heard from Hatch, and presume he has not yet met with any considerable resistance. There are reports in Fredericksburg and from Culpeper that Jackson is moving on Gordonsville with a large force. It is not confirmed as yet by any authority. I will keep you advised. JNO. POPE, Major- General Page 328 328 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cnix~. XXIIL BERKELEY, VA., July 19, 18628p. m. Major-General POPE, Commanding Army of Virginia: Dispatch of 17th received. The enemy not within 10 miles of me in large force. Has fallen back to vicinity of Richmond and Petersburg. I cannot yet tell whether lie has any designs upon you or not. Mansfield sends word from Suffolk that rebels are sending negroes to Lynchburg to work on fortifications. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. Hon. E. M. STANTON, BERKELEY, VA., July 20, 18628 a. m. & cretary of War: Intimations come from various sourcesfrom our returned wounded and prisonersthat a portion of the enerny~s force has moved in the direction of Gordonsville. Although Lynchburg and Chattanooga is the probable direction, it will be well for General Pope to keep a sharp lookout toward Staunton and Gordonsville. In conversation the rebels boast of going to Baltimore, & c. Our information begins to be more full. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., July 20, 1862i p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Your two telegrams of yesterday and one of this morning have been received. The organization of your Fifth and Sixth Army Corps and the organ- ization of the forces of General Dix into a corps will be confirmed by an order of the Department. General Dix arrived here last evening and returned to-day, having come for instructions in relation to ex- change of prisoners. I would be glad to have immediately a list of the wounded received from Richmond. We have no military intelligence of interest from any quarter. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeleij, Va., July 20, 18621.30 p. m. (Recd 9.30 p. in.) ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States I have again heard from return prisoners that ~ troops com- menced leaving Richmond about one week ago by rail, either toward Gordonsville or Fredericksburg, and that the movement continue(l for some three days, by night and day. This comes through so many sources that I feel obliged to call your close attention to it. I also learn that large numbers of conscripts are constantly arriving in Rich- inond from the South Page 329 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 32~ My cavalry, scouts are to-day amusing themselves with the enemy at Malvern Hill. Jacksons movements may be against Buell. The fact of his taking the Gordonsville route would in that case be accounted for by the necessity of their keeping the Petersburg and iDanville roads free for the transit of wounded, recruits, and supplies. In any event I try to urge concentration of the masses of troops in front of Washing- ton and the sending of cavalry far to the front. If I am to have Burn- sides troops, I would be glad to avail myself of at least a portion of them to occupy a point on south bank of James River. Health of the command improving a little. I should be glad to hear daily from Popes outpost. It is important that I should do so. GEG. 13. McCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, Washington, July ~0, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley: Ewell is at Gordonsville with about 6,000 men. Jackson reported to be at Louisa Court-House with 25,000. My advance posts are at Culpeper and Madison Court-House. It is certain that a considerable force of the enemy is along Virginia Central Railroad west of Hanover Junction. JNO. POPE, Major-General. Ktamber of men oompoaing the Arm~j of the Poiomao on the 20th day of July, 1862. Q ~ E~~ ~ e ~ : ~ ~ .~ ~4 S ~ b~ ~LPuS be ~ H General McClellan and staff; U.S. Engineers. Engineer Brigade, 5,735 1,448 2,157 12,349 cavalry division, escort to headquarters, provost guard, First Connecticut Artillery, chief quartermaster. Second Corps (General Sumners) 16,952 2,866 5,665 25, 483 Third Corps (General Heintzelmans) 16,276 3, 180 7,080 26, 536 Fourth Corps (General Keyes) 14,490 2,627 8,756 25,873 Fifth Provisional Corps (General Porters) 21,072 3,900 8,962 33.939 Sixth Provisional Corps (General Franklins) 14, 014 2,749 5,407 22, 170 Seventh Corps (Generalflhx 9, 997 1,042 739 11, 778 U. S. Signal Corps 150 16 29 195 Grand aggregate 101,691 17, 828 38,795 158, 314 ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., December 31, 1862. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately com- piled from the morning report of the Army of the Potomac of the 20th day of July, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assistant adjutant-general, Seth Williams, and now on file in this office. E. iD. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. Page 330 830 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. Xliii WAR DEPARTMENT, Wa8hington City, D. C., Jut~y 21. 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: This is Monday. I hope to be able to tell you on Thursday what is to be done with Burnside. A. LINCOLN. BERKELEY, VA., July 21, 1862.9 a. m. Major-General POPE Commanding A~rmy of Virginia: Your dispatch of 19th [2Oth?1 received. The information in regard to Jacksons movement on Gordonsville reaches me through so many sources that I think it worthy of your closest attention. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, Washington, D. C., July 21, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The subjoined report I have just made to the Secretary of War. JNO. POPE, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA Hon. E. M. STANTON, Washington, July 21, 1862. Secretary of War: Sm: The cavalry expedition I directed General King to send out on the 19th has re- turned. They left Fredericksburg at 7 p. m. on the 19th, and, after a forced march luring the night, made a descent at daylight in the mi~rning upon the Virginia Central Railroad at Beaver Dam Creek, 25 miles west of Hanover Junction and 35 miles from Richmond. They destroyed the railroad and telegraph line for several miles, burned up the depot, which contained 40,000 rounds of musket ammunition, 100 barrels of flour, and much other valuable property, and brought in a captain in charge prisoner. The whole country around was thrown in a great state of alarm. One private was wounded on our side. The cavalry marched 80 miles in thirty hours. The affair was most successful, and reflects high credit upon the commanding officer and his troops. As soon as full particulars are received I will transmit to you the name of the com- manding officer and the troops engaged. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. POPE Major-General, (Jommanding. BALTIMORE, July 21, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Mv DEAR FRIEND: I hope you will allow me to consider you as such. Coming events cast their shadows before them. The rebels are not without well-founded hopes that England and France will interfere in their behalf. The late disaster to our arms at Richmond and the position of Major-General McClellans army will aid them much in their anticipations. The rebels will do all in their power to keep McClellan where he is with his army, in the hope that death and desertion wil Page 331 CHAP. XXIII.] 331 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. so thin his ranks that by fall his army will be reduced one-half. Al- together our position is far from being an agreeable one. We ought to be up and doing. We want troops, and must have them. Measures ought to be adopted to apprehend and send back to their regiments the thousands of deserters scattered throughout the country. These with the men on furlough would make a respectable army. It is said that the rebels would willingly exchange Richmond for Washington. Our generals have not shown much tact in acquiring information in regard to the movements of the rebel armies. The latter disappear from before them with all the material of war without know- ing it for days, as was the case at Manassas, Yorktown, and Corinth. They have been too often assailed by large forces without the slightest knowledge of their approach, and of course disaster follows, as in the case of Generals Grant, Shields, and Banks. Our generals do not ap- pear to understand the stratagems of war, and they leave their rear and depots of supplies unprotected and unguarded, as in the case of McClellans rear being attacked, when he lost much property, as also in the case when Jackson returned to Richmond. We find them too often surprised, as in the case of Fair Oaks and Grant near Corinth, and but for the timely arrival of gunboats the army of the latter would have been captured. I do not mention these things because I desire the command of an army. Far from it. I assure you I am content to perform any duty you may think proper to assign to me. My only wish and desire is to put down this infamous rebellion, and to have the instigators punished as they deserve to be. Whoever may accomplish this, and whether it be McClellan, Halleck, Pope, or any one else, I will be at least one of the first to rejoice and to do honor to th~e conqueror. In conclusion, allow me to call your attention to the bounty about to be l)aid to those who may enlist in the service. I believe it will amount to something like $90 to each man, including $50 by the States. New York gives $50 in addition to what the United States gives. In draw- ing up your instructions for myself, I hope you will allow the $50 to be given by New York. Always and faithfully, yours, ~iYHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, iIarri8OY& 8 Bar, July 21, 1862. Brig. Gen. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General U. S. Army: M~ DEAR GENERAL: In times of crises I always think of correspond ing with you. I do not know the amount of your influence at this time, but whether you possess much or little, you ought now to exert all you possess to guard the state from the dangers that threaten it. You and I agreed in March and April, 1861, that it was proper to make war vigorously. We a~greed after the battle of Bull Run that the capital and the North were in danger, and I doubt not you will agree with me that both are in far greater danger now than at that time. The South has been made a unit by the mere continuance of the war, and their antipathies have been increased by our legislation, while the North has been made weak by divided counsels and an ignorance on the part of most persons of the cause of the war. This army has lost golden opportunities. If II could see you I woul Page 332 332 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII tell you how we lost them; but, being lost, repining will do no good, and we must endeavor to avoid the ruin which now threatens us. I will tell you some things which you may regard as facts: My corps has taken prisoners or contrabands from the enemy as many as half the number of days in the last three months. I have not failed with eye and voice to make searching examinations of all, and I am convinced that the officers and men of the Southern army are at this moment much more vigorous in health and more able for that reason to march and to fight than our army is. The South is not deficient in plain food in abundance. It is my opinion that their grain on hand and growing is enough for two years supply. To think of starving them out is simply absurd unless we can destroy their rail and water lines of communication, when their armies would starve simply on account of the badness of the Virginia roads in wet weather. This army is able to hold its pr~isent position, but cannot assume the offensive without a re-enforcement of at least 100,000 men. That is the least number any man will estimate whose opinion is worth more than a dream. The newspapers will tell you that the health of this army is improv- ing. It is only apparently improving. Comparative rest has produced a seeming improvement during the last three weeks. I speak from no hearsay nor from any mans theory; I go every day and inspect several regiments. If any other officers do this I do not know their names. I find that a majority of the generals are beginning to droop. I find the men are becoming weaker by the daytheir minds and bodies are growing weak togetherand, though I despise most theories, I will say that to pen up more than 100,000 men and animals in a space so small that you can find no point of that space which is one mile distant from its outside boundary on the James River in the months of July, August, and September is to secure disease, weakness, and nostalgia as a certain crop. Our enemies are not fools, and they will soon find means to shut up the James River below us or make its navigation enormously expen. sive to us. They will find the means also to annoy us in other ways, and unless we receive vast re-enforcements they will succeed in ruin- ing this whole army, and this army lost, the North i~ necessarily from that moment at the mercy of the South. Some persons affirm that it will have a bad moral effect or a bad political effect to withdraw this army, but will the effect be worse than to remain here and do nothing? We can neither operate against the enemy nor build up our own army on this spot. Then why do we stay here? The South has already put forth all its strength and will continue to do so. We have not, and we must bide our time and employ our means to the best advantage. Do you fear intervention? It will not be less to be feared if we have an army where it can be employed thau to have one where it cannot be employed. Do you fear cost? It will cost just as much (and more if you esti- mate for s~ikness) to maintain the army and build it up here as it would to carry it away to a healthy district and build it up to return the whole to the James River next October. If the movement begins to-morrow or the next day, or even one week hence, I think this army could be removed in safety; after that its re- moval would be of doubtful possibility. If, therefore, you value th Page 333 CHAP. XXIII.] 333 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. safety of this country do one of two things without delay, remove this army or send to it a re-enforcement of 100,000 men. If this army should be taken to some place between the enemy and our own possessions, we might allege health as a motive for the move- ment, bid defiance to the South, and by and by to England and France also, but by remaining here in our present condition we submit to chance the very ark of our safety- Please let me hear from you. Your friend, E. D. KEYES. P. S.I have kept the foregoing two days to determine whether or not I should change my opinion and retain it. I have concluded, how- ever, to send it; the sickliness of this country in August and September being one of the strongest reasons for withdrawing. [Tudorsement.] iRespectfu.lly referred to Major-General Halleck. JULY 28, 1862. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 84. Washington, July 22, 1862. The designation in General Orders, No. 125, from the Headquarters Army of the Potomac, of the forces commanded by Brigadier-Generals Porter and Franklin as the Fifth and Sixth Army Corps is hereby con- firmed. The forces under Major-General Dix will constitute the Seventh; those under Major-General Wool the Eighth; and those under Major-General Burnside, belonging to the Department of North Carolina, the Ninth Army Corps, respectively. By order of the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 23, 18627.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN POPE: I congratulate you heartily on success of the cavalry expedition. Nothing new of interest here. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley, July 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK Commanding U. Army: GENERAL: I have seen to-day nearly a thousand of our sick and wounded just returned from Richmond. Some refugees have also ar- rived and a number of surgeons and chaplains taken prisoners at Bul Page 334 334. THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. Run. All of these who have enjoyed any opportunities of observation unite in stating that re-enforcements are pouring into Richmond from the South. iDr. L. II. Stone, U. S. Army, saw at Charlotte from 7,000 to 8,000 troops en route to Richmond. He and others unite in stating that it is quite positive that the troops on James Island (Charlotte) have arrived in Richmond and that the Southern States are being drained of their garrisons to re-enforce the army in my front. It is said that the troops of Beauregards old army are also en route hither. This last is not positive, and I hope to learn the truth in regard to it to-morrow. Three regimentsone South Carolina, one Xorth Carolina, and one Georgiareached Richmond yesterday. Supplies are being rapidly pushed in by all routes. It would appear that Longstreet is in front of Richmond on this side of the James; D. H. Hill at Fort Darling and vicinity. Our cavalry pickets on Charles City road were driven in to-day by a heavy force of cavalry and some artillery. Averell started after them with a sufficient force. I have not yet heard the result. Allow me to urge most strongly that all the troops of Burnside and Hunter, together with all that can possibly be spared from other points, be sent to me at once. I am sure that you will agree with me that the true defense of Washington consists in a rapid and heavy blow given by this army upon Richmond. Can you not possibly draw 15,00() or 20,000 men from the West to re- enforce me temporarily? They can return the moment we gain Rich- mond. Please give weight to this suggestion; I am sure it merits it. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MOCLELLAiN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAO, IN CAMP AT HARRISONS LANDING, JA1~n~s RIVER, Hon. W. H. SEWARD. Saturday, July 26, 1862. Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.: DEAR SIR: Confirmatory information has just been received here that about ten days or two weeks ago Jackson started toward the valley, via the Fredericksburg Railroad (from Richmond), with 60,000 to 80,OOG troops, including his own and Ewells division, Lawtons brigade, and from 3,000 to 4,000 cavalry. Pope has no doubt pretty well ascer- tained his position and numbers by this time. McClellan ought to be instructed to keep a very heavy pressure on the lines between here and Richmond, so as to detect any depletion of the forces there to re-enforce Jackson for an annihilation of Pope and a raid upon Washington. That has been one great fault of our generals. They have not kept a heavy enough pressure upon the lines to detect the depletion and evacu- ations of the enemy in time to take proper advantage of them. That was the case at iVlanassas and Yorktown. We were kept at bay by a mere feint of force until the main forces were out of reach of a harassing pursuit. So it was when Jackson turned our right wing the other day. If a heavy pressure had been kept upon him from the Potomac h& would either have had to remain where he was or been followed up by a. sufficient force t~ keep him from doing any harm Page 335 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 335~ However, McClellan has played the same game on the enemy in our late retreat. By keeping up a show of force in our fortifications he enabled our main forces to get under good headway for the new base of operations before being seriously molested. General Huger has since been relieved of his command in the field, it is reported, for allowing McClellan to get twelve hours the start of him. I hope that McClellau will be instructed to keep a very heavy and threatening pressure upon Richmond, so as to prevent any considerable re-euforcement of Jackson from that quarter. He can do this without any risk. He has his gunboats and fortifications to fall back upon in case of meeting with too heavy a pressure himself, and in such a case would have the choice of his ground to punish the enemy as he did before. Besides, an advance of McClellan to within striking distance of Richmond again would have au immense moral effect at the North in the way of recruiting, & c., and throughout the world, showing that he was not much hurt after all. The advantages of such an advance immediately would be incalculable and would be well worth a consid- erable effort, while it could be made about as well as not, as far, at any rate, as would be necessary for the desired moral effect. Once restored to within striking distance of Richmond, our prestige would again be restored almost to its former standard. Another very valuable piece of information has just been received here from a reliable source. It is to the effect that a second Merrimac, more formidable than the first, has just been completed at Richmond and is daily expected by the citizens there to come out and clear Jamea River. This vessel, it seems, was commenced at Norfolk before the. evacuation of that place, and on the evacuation it was taken with other craft to Richmond. She is said to be of smaller dimensions and much lighter draught than the old Merrimac, but similar to her in construc- tion and much more formidable, combining as she does all the improve- ments suggested by experience. Her armament is said to consist of eight guns of the most formidable construction that can be made in the Confederacy, while it is reported that a secret channel is open foi her through the blockade, which can be closed at pleasure after she is out and under the protection of the gulls of Fort Darling. She is described as having eight gunsone in the bow, one in the stern, and three on each side. A peculiar kkid of shot have been cast expressly for her at the Tredegar Iron Works at Richmond, and, as I have said, it is daily expected by the most knowing citizens there to come out and clear James River. This information is brought by a very intelligent Irishman, thirty- four years of age, a printer by trade, who has been at work on the Examiner and Enquirer at Richmond since the last of March last, and has had all the facilities and privileges of his craft for acquiring infor- mation. He has just come within our lines with his family, consisting of a wife and three children, under a flag of truce, as a British subject. He has been aboard of the Merrimac No. 2 since the completion of her wood work, before she was taken across to the Manchester side of the river to be iron clad, and describes her as a very formidable craft, with a most monstrous prow. I have no doubt, from what he says, but that we are destined to soon be annoyed by Merrimac No. 2 on James River the same as we were in the spring on Hampton Roads by Merri- mac No. 1. We may rest assured that the rebels will spare no means in their power to annoy and damage us and annihilate this James River campaign. They have had the means and the power to build one Mer- rimac and to experience her value, and I see no reason to doubt tha Page 336 336 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Ca& ~. XXIII. with all the benefits of their experience they have essayed another. They are aware that she can rest secure under the guns of Fort Dar- ling and sally out to commit her depredations at pleasure. It is not unlikely, either, that she can be worked through a channel in the blockade, under the protection of the guard of Fort Darling, that it would not be practicable for our gunboats to find out under their fire. I think that the evidence of an intention on the part of the rebels to bring out a second Merrimac is sufficient at least to prompt us to be prepared for any emergency of the kind. The I)Ossibility, probability, plausibility, and direct evidence are all in favor of such a case. This is no doubt one of the storms presaged by the present calm on James River au(I hinted at by the Richmond press; a storm that is destined to burst as suddenly on James River as did that of the first Merrimac on the waters of Hampton Roads. May it not be as disas- trous even a~ that in its consequences? Let one of our best gunboats be detailed to watch the coming of this craft through the blockade, and as soon as she makes her appearance let preparations be complete for running her ashore and capturing her, which is the easiest and most profitable way of disposing of her. General McClellan has the above information, and will no doubt take proper action in the matter. If this craft, as formidable as she is rep. resented, should come suddenly down upon us, simultaneously with the rebel land forces, it would no doubt create rather an unpleasant little sensation here. This should be very studiously guarded against. She could do a great deal of damage by addressing herself exclusively to our shipping and land forces before she could be overcome, unless prep- arations were already perfected for running her ashore and capturing her before she should reach our vulnerable point on the river. Later. SATURDAY EVENING, July 26. I have just learned from an intelligent Jew boy, fourteen years of age, who is right from Richmond, under flag of truce (to join his par- ents, formerly of City Point, but now residing on Eppes Island, oppo- site that place), that he saw the new rebel gunboat Richmond, as they call her, lying at the Rocketts, below Richmond, day before yesterday, receiving her iron plating; that they were plating her with transverse layers of iron plates, about 2 inches thick and 6 or 8 inches wide~ that he saw about fifteen hands at work on her, but the plating did not seem to be very far advanced yet; that he was not on board, and did not see her interior; saw no guns aboard, but saw that there were three port- holes on each side auct one on each end. He did not know anything about when they expected to have the craft completed or what they in- tended to do with her; that he heard it said she was built pretty much like the Merrimac, except that she was not so long and large. From this statement it would appear that there will be probably plenty of time for the making cf proper preparations for the reception of this monster, and that she will probably not interfere with our James River operations for two or three weeks yet, if it is the intention to bring her at all below the blockade. Within that time I hope to see wonders accomplished by our land forces. I will keep close watch of this secesh monster through every avail- able channel of information, and promptly report her progress as near as possible. Ever truly, your friend and obedient servant; T. S. S. [T. S. SEYBOLT. Page 337 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TINION. 337 (Indomement.] WAR DEPARTMENT, July 29, 1862. The Secretary of War directs me to refer the within to General Hal- leck, and to beg his attention to the same. C. P. WOLCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War. Memorandum for the Secretary of War. WASHINGTON, D. C., July 27, 1862. In accordance with the directions of the President, I left here on the afternoon of the 24th and reached the camp of General McClellan on the afternoon of the 25th. I stated to the general that the object of my visit was to ascertain from him his Views and wishes in regard to future operations. He said that he proposed to cross the James River at that point, attack Peters- burg, and cut off the enemys communications by that route south, mak- ing no further demonstration for the present against Rich~nond I stated to him very frankly my views in regard to the danger and im- practicability of the plan, to most of which he finally agreed. I then told him that it seemed to me a military necessity to concen- trate his forces with those of General Pope on some point where they could at the same time cover Washington and operate against Rich- mond, unless he felt strong enough to attack the latter place with a strong probability of success with the re-enforcements which could be given to him. He expressed the opinion that with 30,000 re-enforce- ments he could attack Richmond with a good chance of success. I replied that I was authorized by the President to promise only 20,000, and that if he could not take Richmond with that number we must de- vise some plan for withdrawing his troops from their present position to some point where they could unite with those of General Pope with- out exposing Washington. He thought there would he no serious diffi- culty in withdrawing his forces for that purpose, but the movement he said would have a demoralizing influence on his own troops, and sug- gested the propriety of their holding their present position till sufficient re-enforcements could be collected. I told him that I had no authority to consider that proposition, and that he must decide between advising the withdrawal of his forces to some point to be agreed upon to meet General Pope or to advance on Richmond with the re-enforcements which the President had offered; that I was not sufficiently advised in regard to the position of our forces and those of the enemy to say how many additional troops could be given to him with safety, but that the President had decided that question by fixing his re~enforcements at 20,000, and I could promise no addition to that number. I inferred from his remarks that under these circumstances he would prefer to withdraw and unite with General Pope; but I advised him to consult his officers and give me a final answer in the morning. He dlii so, and the next morning informed me that he would attack Richmond with the re-enforcements promised. He would not say that he thought the probabilities of success were in his favor, but that there was a chance, and he was willing to try it. 22 H UVOL XI, PT II Page 338 ~38 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIIL Th regard to the force of the enemy, he expressed the opinion that it was not less than 200,000, and I found that in this estimate most of his officers agreed. His own effective force was, officers and men, about 90,000, which, with 20,000 re-enforcements, would make 110,000. I had no time or opportunity to investigate the facts upon which these estimates were based, and therefore can give no opinion as to their correctness. His officers, as I understood, were about equally divided in opinion in regard to the policy of withdrawing or of risking an attack on Rich- mond. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 27, 1862. (Received 2 p. in.) General THOMAS, Adjutant- General: I respectfully apply for permission to send an officer from each regi- ment to the place where it was raised, with authority to bring on every oflicer and man he can find fit for duty, whether on leave of absence or not, no matter from what source the leave may be granted. I have official assurance that the number of people absent on leave is having an injurious effect on the recruiting service. Absentees tell such exaggerated stories of the hardships and sufferings of campaign life and of the carnage of the battle-field that they deter recruits from enlisting. The leaves might be revoked by an order from the Adjutant- GeneraPs Office, except where the case is that of bona fide sick and wounded, unable to join. The officers I propose to send from each regiment should report at your office and receive orders. Such is my application: to visit all hos- pitals and places where soldiers may be detained, whether on extra duty or otherwise, no matter by what order or whose authority, and bring them here to their regiments. The recruiting serviceservice on im- portant dutyof course will be excepted~ I am satisfied that the most fertile source of increase to the diminished ranks of the regiments is to get back the absentees from the army. There are two well men absent to one really sick man. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Harrisons Bar, July 27, 1862. General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I was sorry not to see more of you the other day. I should have been glad to canvass opinions with you. It struck me that Halleck underrates the number of enemies opposed to us about Richmond. That number is 200,000, and is more than double our numbers; rely on this as certain and act accordingly. Another matter is worthy of some notice. It is reported that the rebels have two armored vessels at Richmond, and that one is ready for action. This I learn from Navy officers. I know not the extent o Page 339 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 339 the means of resistance to those boats, but if they get among our trans- ports and come opposite I his camp you can understand the damage they can do as well as myself. As I have beeh as earnest in the cause as any other man, and as my recorded testimony will prove and demonstrate that I have not in any case overrated the resistance to be expected at any period ~f this war, 1 will now tell you my conclusions in regard to the present situation of our affairs: First. This army cannot take the offensive with a certainty of success with re-enforcements less than 100,000. For this army to retake the offensive without any re-enforcements would result in certain defeat. Second. This army, in its present position, may be starved out, and if we have not the means to destroy the enemys gunboats it may be destroyed or neutralized for a time long enough to enable the enemy to send 100,000 men into Maryland. You are aware that a year and a half ago 1 was for striking quickly. I am now in favor of striking as quickly as we can, but not to strike until we get together an army large enough to give us a strong proba- bility of success. For us to strike as our means are now, in regard to strength and situation, our chances for success would not be one in three. Please think of what I have said in this letter, for if theArmyofthe Potomac is destroyed the South will overrun the North. In haste, your friend, E. D. KEYES. GENERAL ORDERS, llnqRs. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 143. Camp near Harrison8 Landing, Va., July 27, 62. I. The attention of the general commanding has been drawn to the serious and growing evil of applications in person. All papers of a personal nature are acted upon at these headquarters in the order of their presentation and with, the greatest possible dispatch, and any solicitations or inquiries with a view to hasten action on them, besides being in violation of repeated general orders, produce merely delay and embarrassment to the public business. The general commanding directs that no notice be taken at these headquarters of any application presented in person without the ex- press permission of the corps commander or the highest commander of a body of troops not serving in a corps; such permission to be granted only in cases where it is evident that highly important private interests or the public service will suffer or life be endangered by the brief delay. incident to the usual course of business, and to be signified in the in- dorsement of the corps or other independent commander. Except in such cases and with such permission no officer will be allowed to visit these headquarters for the purpose of facilitating an application or to ascertain its result. Commanding officers are desired to send in all applications and other papers of a personal nature only by the messengers required by existing orders to report at these headquarters at 10 a. m. and 5 p. m. daily. II. The duties of the inspector-general and assistant inspector-gen- eral at these headquarters are coextensive with the wants and inter- ests of the service in its various departments and branches. They are clothed with the authority of the general commanding to give such di- rections for the good of the public service as may appear necessary Page 340 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. 340 [Cxw~. XXIIL correcting evils found to exist, as far as practicable, and the time and place of inspection, investigation, & c. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS Or~IcE, Major-General HALLEOX, Washington City, July 28, 1862. Commanding U. k. Army: GENERAL: From the Richmond and Wilmington published notices of the battles of 26th and 27th June north of the Chickahominy I have with some care made out the following organizations of the attacking forces * The division of A. P. Hill is spoken of as 14,000 strong. I find no- tices of regiments: Second Florida went into action 250 strong; Twelfth Mississippi, 397; Eighteenth Virginia, 625; Eighth Virginia 185; Forty-seventh Virginia, 275. From this it is evident that the old regi- ments are weak. The new conscript regiments may be strong, but the strongest regiment here named is less than 400 muskets. I find four divisions, twelve brigades, and nine batteries named as in the battles north of the Chickahominy, as follows: STONEWALL JACKSONS DIVISION. Brigadier-General Hood: Fifth and three other Virginia regiments. Brigadier-General Whiting: Eleventh, Sixteenth, Second Mississippi, and two other regiments. Brigadier-General Pender: (Five regi- ments.) ID. H. HILLS DIVISION. Brigadiers not named. A. P. HILLS DIVISION. Brigadier-General Ripley: Forty-fourth and Forty-eighth Georgia, Second and Third North Carolina. Brigadier-General Gregg: Five regiments. Brigadier-General Branch: Twenty-seventh, Twenty- eighth, Thirty-third regiment. Thirty-seventh North Carolina, and one other LONGSTREETS DiVISIoN. - Brigadier-General Featherston: Eleventh and Nineteenth Missis- sippi and Second Mississippi Battalion. Brigadier-General Pryor: Fourteenth Louisiana, St. Pauls Louisiana Battalion, Third Virginia, Fourteenth Alabama a Alabama regiments. nd Second Florida. Brigadier-General Wilcoxs [ARTILLERY.] Batteries named: Second Richmond Howitzers, Third Richmond Artillery, Johnsons ID Andrews, First onaldsonville, Thomas (Purcells), Crenshaws, Maryland, IDavidspns, Letcher Artillery, Milledge Ar- tillery, and Morris Artillery. For a correct statement, see Vol. XI, Part II, pp. 483489 Page 341 CHAP. XXflI.] 341 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. These notes may be of use in dealing with this army, giving the die- tribution of some sixty regiments, which must be nearly one-half of the whole Richmond army. An intelligent writer of Branchs division, writing in the North Car- olina Wilmington Journal of 8th July, claiming credit for North Car- olina, says that Carolina and Georgia contributed full one-half the regiments engaged in the Richmond battlesfrom 36 to 40 each. This would make the whole army, in his opinion, 152 regiments, which, at 700 men average, would give a total force of 105,000 men. Permit me to suggest that a careful comparison of the notices which appear in the newspapers, lists of prisoners of war, and deserters, if made by an intelligent, educated man, would soon give us a tolerably correct idea of the forces opposing us. If this has ever been done in this part of th& country there is, I fear, reason to believe that it has been done by incompetent or unfaithful hands. Of 480 prisoners sent from Harrisons Bar to New York, the lists published in the New York Herald give the names of 74 regiments and 1 battalion of infantry, 5 batteries of artillery, and 1 regiment of cav- alry. I find notices of 90 regiments infantry, 1 regiment cavalry, and 12 batteries of artillery all by name as in these battles. I am, respectfully, M. ~. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 29, 1862. Surgeon-General HAi~nhoND: There are 1~,000 sick reported here now; 2,000 of them could, I think, take the field. JONATHAN LETTERMAN, Surgeon, Medical Director. Imdorsement.J WAR DEPARTMENT, July 31, 1862. Respectfully referred to Major-General Halleck, General-in-Chief. By order of the Secretary of War: C. P. WOLCOTT, Assistant Secretary of War. QUARTERMAsTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, July 29, 1862. Col. JAMES BELGER, Quartermaster, U. S. Army, Baltimore, Md.: The Secretary of War directs that you engage at once all the steamers in port that can be used for the transportation of sick and wounded men, and send them immediately to Harrisons Landing, on the James River, to report to the senior officer of the quartermaster~s department in charge there. Report by telegraph your action under this order. By order of the Secretary of War: M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General Page 342 342 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 29, 18627.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Nothing new of much interest. Received another batch of wounded yesterday. Apprehensions begin to be felt by some of arrival and effect of Merrimac No. 2. I doubt whether she is yet ready for service. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. Major-General HALLECK, BERKELEY, VA., July 30, 18627 a. m. Commander-in- Chief: Deserters state that another regiment of rebel cavalry was to go to Hanover Court-House to-day, and that Longstreet, Hill (A. P.), and Hill (D. H.), are still with their troops in the immediate vicinity of Rich- mond, and have not gone to Gordonsville. Total of forces with Jack- son stated at 30,000 to 35,000. I hope that it may soon be decided what is to be done by this army, and that the decision may be to re-enforce it at once. We are losing much valuable time, and that at a time when energy and decision are sadly needed. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Berkeley, July 30, 1862. Commanding U. S. Army: GENERAL: There is nothing new of any interest to give you. The cavalry scouts are daily extending their beats, and meet with less re- sistance during the past few days. The enemy still at Malvern [andj its vicinity, rather in small forceprobably a brigade, with a battery. Nothing seems to be doing on the other side of the James. If I had even a part of Bnrnsides command I would beat them up on that bank of the James, as well as stir them up at Malvern. I am very weak in cavalrynot more than 3,800 for duty. Could not Williams regiment from Port ~IRoyal and Mixs from Monroe both be ordered up here ~ A large part of my cavalry was taken from me when I left Washington for Fort Monroe. I feel the waiit of it very much. It is not true (my information goes) that either of the Hills or Longstreet are with Jack- son near Gordonsville, which renders it more probable that Jacksons is more than 30,000 to 35,000, although it is possible that I may be deceived about the latter point. Heavy re-enforcements have arrived in Richmond and are still com- ing. I still feel that our true policy is to re-enforce the army by every available means and throw it again upon Richmond. Should it be de- termined to withdraw it, I shalt look upon our cause as lost and the demoralization of the army certain. I sincerely hope that some decision may be promptly arrived at, and that it may be in accordance with the views I have so frequently ex- pressed. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, M~jor- General, Commanding Page 343 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 343 FORT MONROE, July 30, 1862. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: I do not consider it very important to have some of the mortar yes.. sels in the Gulf sent here at this time. They could not possibly reach here in season to assist General McClellan. If they were already hero they might perhaps be used to advantage. No news have reached me from McClellan or Commodore Rodgers since I telegraphed you yesterday from Fort Monroe. GOLDSBOROUGH. WASHINGTON, July 30, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Com~manding, & c., Army of the Potomac: M~ DEAR GENERAL: You are probably aware that I hold my pres- ent position contrary to my own wishes, and that I did everything in my power to avoid coming to Washington; but after declining several invitations from the President I received the order Qf the 11th instant, which left me no option. I have always had strong personal objections to mingling in the politico-military affairs of Washington. I never liked the place, and like it still less at the present time. But aside from personal feeling, I really believed I could be much more useful in the West than here. I had acquired some reputation there, but here I could hope for none, and I greatly feared that whatever I might do I should receive more abuse than thanks. There seemed to be a disposition in the public press to cry down any one who attempted to serve the country instead of party. This was particularly the case with you, as I understood, and I could not doubt that it would be in a few weeks the case with mc. Under these circumstances I could not see how I could be of much use here. Neverthel9ss, being ordered, I was obliged to come. In whatever has occurred heretofore you have had my full approba- tion and cordial support. There was no one in the Army, under whom I could serve with greater pleasure, and I now ask from you that same support and co-operation and that same free interchange of opinions as in former days. If we disagree in opinion, I know that we will do so honestly and without unkind feelings. The country demands of us that we act together and with cordiality. I believe we can and will do ~o. Indeed we must do so if we expect to put down the rebellion. If we permit personal jealousies to interfere for a single moment with our operations we shall not only injure the cause but ruin ourselves. But I am satisfied that neither of us will do this, and that we will work to.. gether with all our might and bring the war to an early termination. I have written to you frankly, assuring you of my friendship and con- fidence, believing that my letter would be received with the same kind feelings in which it is written. Yours, truly, H. W. HALLECK Page 344 344 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [Cnkr. XXIIL WASHINGTON, D. C., July 31, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley, Va.: General Pope again telegraphs that the enemy is reported to be evacuating Richmond and falling back on Danville and Lynchburg. II. W. HALLECK, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 31, 1862. Cot E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: Your three dispatches relative to allowing officers in the regular regi- ments to receive appointments in the volunteer service have been re- ceived. As very many of the best officers in the regular regiments have already been transferred to volunteer commands, thereby leaving a majority of the officers young and inexperienced and requiring the instruction and example of the few remaining older officers, I do not think the officers you allude to could be spared without manifest detriment to the serv- iceat all events in the present uncertain state of affairs. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS Harrisons Landing, Va., July 31, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I extract the following from a report of one of the medi- cal officers lately from Richmond: Three small schooners, one little black steamboat, and two hulks fitting up for some purpose comprised the entire navy on the river within view. Very respectfully, F. J. PORTER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Indorse~nent.] AUGUST 1, 1862. Copy furnished Commodore Wilkes, commanding James River flotilla., HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH ARMY CORPS Fort Monroe, Va., July 31, ~L862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: It becomes my duty to remind you that the term of service of three of my regiments expires before the close of next month, one on the 25th of August and the others a few days later. These regiments are the Eighth, Thirteenth, and Twenty-fifth New York State Militia. Page 345 Ca& r. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 34~ Two of them are at Suffolk, and the other is divided between Yorktown, Fort Wool, and Point Lookout. It is indispensable that these regiments should be replaced by others before they are mustered out of the service. My force is very small. In this fort, second in importance to none in the Union, I have but 50~ men. It should be garrisoned by a regiment of artillery. I under. stand that Colonel Gibson, late in command at Fort Delaware, has a regiment of artillery in the District of Columbia. He has peculiar qualifications for the command of a garrison, and I should like very much to have him here. There is a great deal to be done here to put the fort in proper condition, and there are not men enough for the ordinary guard and police duty. The condition of the ground surrounding the fort is very bad. I have instituted a sanitary commission for the purpose of removing nu~ances, but the great amount of work done on the point for the Army of the Potomac renders it indispensable that we should have a full garrison, commanded by an experienced and vigilant officer. I need a regiment of cavalry at Suffolk to replace one of the militia infantry regiments whose time is about to expire. I have less than 500 mounted men at that point, and they are almost worn-out by the hard service which they are performing as pickets and scouts between the Kansemond and Blackwater. The enemy have already come down several times on the east side of the Blackwater, carrying off both white men and negroes to the army at Richmond. I am told that there is a fine regiment of cavalry at Port Royal, which is not needed there. If I cau have this regiment for Suffolk and Colonel Gibsons artillery for this post I will be very glad to take them in place of the three militia regiments whose term of service is about to expire. I am, very respectfully, your obedient serv~int, JOHN A. DIX, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Berkeley, Augu8t 1, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Commanding U. S. Army: M~ DEAR GENERAL: Your kind and very welcome letter of the 30th reached me this evening. My own experience enables me to appreciate most fully the difficul- ties and unpleasant features of your position. I have passed through it all and most cordially sympathize with you, for I regard your place, under present circumstances, as one of the most unpleasant nuder the Government. Of one thing, however, you may be sure, and that is of my full and cordial support in all things. Had I been consulted as to who was to take my place I would have advised your appointment. So far as you are concerned I feel toward you and shall act precisely as if I had urged you for the place you hold. There is not one particle of feeling or jealousy in my heart toward you. Set your miud perfectly at rest on that score. No one of your old and tried friends will work with you more cordially and more honestly than I shall. If we are permitted to do so, I believe that together we can save this unhappy country and bring this war to a comparatively early termin Page 346 346 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAP. XXIII. tion. The doubt in my mind is whether the selfish politicians will allow us to do so. I fear the results of the civil policy inaugurated by recent acts of Congress and practically enunciated by General Pope in his series of orders to the Army of Virginia. It is my opinion that this contest should be conducted by us as a war, and as a war between civilized nations; that our efforts should be di- rected toward crushing the armed masses of the rebels, not against the people; but that the latter should, so far as military necessities permit, be protected in their constitutional, civil, and personal rights. I think that the question of slavery should enter into this war solely as a military one; that while we do our best to prevent the rebels from making military uses of their slaves, we should avoid any proclamations of general emancipation, and should protect inoffensive citizens in the possession of that as well as of other kinds of property. If we do not actively protect them in this respect, we should at least avoid taking an active part on the other side, and let the negro take care of himself. The people of the South should understand that we are not making war upon the institution of slavery, but that if they submit to the Con- stitution and laws of the Union they will be protected in their consti~ tutional rights of every nature. I think that pillaging and outrages to persons ought not to be tolerated; that private property and persons should enjoy all the protection we can afford them compatible with the necessities of our position. I would have the conduct of the Union troops present a strong contrast with that of the rebel armies, and prove by our action that the Government is, as we profess it to be, be- nign and beneficent; that wherever its power extends protection and security exist for all who do not take an active part against us. Pe- culiar circumstances may force us to depart from these principles in exceptional cases; but I would have these departures the exceptions, not the rule. I and the army under my command are fighting to restore the Union aiid the supremacy of its laws, not for revenge. I therefore deprecate and view with infinite dread any policy which tends to render impossible the reconstruction of the Union, and to make this contest simply a useless effusion of blood. We need more men. The old regiments of this army should be promptly filled by immediate drafting, if necessary. We should pre- sent such an overwhelming force as to make success certain, be able to follow it up, and to convince the people of the South that resistance is useless. I know that our ideas as to the concentration of forces agree perfectly. I believe that the principles I have expressed in this letter accord with your own views. I sincerely hope that we do not differ widely. You see I have met you in your own spirit of frankness, and I would be glad to have your views on these points, that I may know what I am doing. We must have a full understanding on all points, and I regard the civil or political questions as inseparable from the military in this contest. It is unnecessary for me to repeat my objections to the idea of with- drawing this army from its present position. Every days reflection but serves to strengthen my conviction that the. true policy is to re-enforce this army at the earliest possible moment by every available man and to allow it to resume the offensive with the least possible delay. I am, general, your sincere friend, GEO. B. McCLELLA Page 347 CHAP. XXIII.] 347 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. FORT MONROE, August 1, 18625 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I have just received the following dispatch from General Mansfield at Suffolk. I have written to you by to-days mail in regard to my force here and at Suffolk : * Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe: The enemy has been re-enforced in cavalry, and numbers 800 in my front. Our scouts will soon be shut in here, and they will do as they please with the railroads beyond nsall for the want of cavalry here. MANSFIELD. JOHN A. DIX, Major- Generat. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., August 1, 1862. Flis Excellency CHARLES S. OLDEN, Governor of New Jersey, Trenton: SIR: I haxe the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22d ultimo.t I am much gratified by the consideration you have given to my sug- gestions, and am encouraged in the belief that the wise course you are pursuing will still maintain for New Jersey the honorable position she won early in the struggle, by promptly filling up the regiments which have done her so much honor and the country such good service. I beg leave to ask Your Excellencys attention to the inquiry, Whether the difficulty you apprehend in recruiting for the old regiments might not be met by consolidating the present thin companies, so as to fill them to the standard, and raising new companies to fill up the regi- ments~ The leaven of veteran companies would soon make soldiers of the whole regiment; and I presume the knowledge that the men would be better cared for and would share the prestige of the old colors, the prospect of immediate service and the more liberal bounties, would more than counterbalance the supposed advantage to be gained from the appointment of new field officers. At all events I think the soldiers we should add immediately to the old regiments by this would be worth much more to us than double their number in new ones, which could not be exl)ec(Qd to take the field for months. Just now time counts for many men. Sincerely thanking you for the kind expressions, contained in your letter, I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, August 2, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: M~ DEAR GENERAL: We have not received the order we expected Reference is probably to letter of July 31, next preceding. iNot found Page 348 348 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. from you assuming the command of the Army. I nevertheless take the liberty of writing to you in regard to this post. I have only 500 men in the fort, half of them armed only with swords. There should be a regiment of artillery. I have asked for Colonel Gibson (captain in the Regular Army) and his regiment near Washington. He is just the man for this post. Everything about it is dirty in the extreme. Major Roberts, the commanding officer, has an excuse in the small number of men, which is riot sufficient for guard and police duty. I trust the im- portance of this command (though I could have no personal objection) may not be increased by the withdrawal of the Armyof the Potomac; a measure, as I learn, still under consideration. I cannot err, I am sure, when I say it would be nearly fatal. It would break the spirit of the country, now exceedingly depressed in some quarters, and go very far to insure intervention from abroad. If we can ever reach Richmond, it seems to me the object can be best effected from the position we now occupy. At all events I feel a painful conviction that we cannot bear a retrograde movement at this moment. I have conversed freely with General Buruside on this subject before you were here and since his return, and he concurs with me entirely. Excuse these suggestions, and believe me, respectfully and truly, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major. General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 146. JGamp near ]larrison8 Landing, Va., Aug.2, 1862. Commanders of army corps, divisions, brigades, and regiments are held responsible for the faithful execution of the following directions: 1. Brigade and regimental quartermasters and commissaries, as well as sutlers, must be located within the lines of their respective com- mands or in the immediate vicinity. 2. Officers and enlisted men will not be detached from their respective companies and regiments except when absolutely necessary for the in- terests of the military service. Pioneers shall not be detached from their companies. Guards for the different headquarters and for their respective com- mands shall be turned off daily, and the men will not be used for me- nial service. 3. Officers responsible for public property must account. for the same as required by Army Regulations. 4. Special reports of the officers and enlisted men absent from each regiment and independent command will be made to these headquarters, through the regular channels, every Sunday morning. The reports will state where and by whose authority the officers or men are absent, and, if absent on duty, the nature of such duty. They will be signed by the several commanders through whose headquarters they pass. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. [AUGUST 2, 1862.For General Orders, No. 147, organizing the Am- bulance Corps, see Vol. XI, Part 1, pp. 217219. Page 349 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 349 GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 150. Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., Aug. 2, 62. The suggestions and recommendations contained in the following let- ter from the medical director of this army and the directions for cook- ing appended thereto are published for the information and guidance of all concerned, and it is enjoined upon corps and other commanders to see that they are fully carried out. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WiLLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Extracts.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, MEDICAL DIRECTORS OFFICE, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., July 18, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following extract from a report of the sick and wonnded in this army, taken from the latest re- torts made to this office by the medical directors of corps and to pre- sent to you certain suggestions for removing the causes oi disease and improving the general condition oC the men: * * * * * * * The diseases prevailing in our own army are generally of a mild type and are not increasing; their chief causes are, in my opinion, the want of proper food (and that improperly prepared), exposure to the malaria of swamps and the inclemencies of the weather, excessive fatigue and want of natural rest, combined with great excitement of several days duration and the exhaustion consequent thereon. I would recommend, to remedy these evils, that food, with an abundance of fresh vegetables, shelter, rest, with a moderate amount of exercise, be given all the troops, and general and personal police be enforced. To accomplish this, I would snggest that an abundant supply of fresh oniOns and potatoes be used by the troops daily for a fortnight and thereafter at least twice a week, cost what they may; that the desiccated vegetables, dried apples or peaches, and pickles be used thrice a week; that a supply of fresh bread, by floating ovens or other methods, be distributed at least three times a week; that the food be prepared by companies and not by squads, and that there be two men detailed from each company as permanent cooks, to be governed in making the soups and cooking by the inclosed directions; that wells be dug as deep as the water wili permit. That the troops be provided with tents, or other shelter, to protect them from the sun and rain, which shall be raised daily and struck once a week and placed upon new ground; the tentes dabri also to be placed over new ground once a week; that the men be required to cut pine tops, spread them thickly in their tents, and not sleep on the ground; that camps be formed not in the woods, but a short dis- tance from them, where a free circulation of pure air can be procured, and where the ground has been exposed to the sun and air to such an extent as to vitiate the noxious exhalations from damp ground, satn-. rated with the emanations from the human body and from the decaying vegetation. Sleep during the day will not compensate for the loss of it at night; that not more than two drills per day be had, one in the morning from 6.15 to 7, and one in the evening from 6.30 to 7.15 ; that the men be allowed to sleep until sunrise, and that they have their breakfast as soon as they rise; this, with the labor required for policing Page 350 350 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. will be sufficient during the present season. That when troops are to march they should have breakfast, if only a cup of coffee, before start- ing, and after their arrival in camp each man be given a gill of whisky in a canteen three-fourths filled with water. I would also recommend that the strictest attention be paid to policing, general and special; that all the troops be compelled to bathe once a weeka regiment at a time, if possible, being marched to the river from a brigade one hour after sun- rise or an hour and a half before sunsetto remain in the water fifteen minutes; that sinks be dug and used, 6 inches of earth being thrown into them daily, and when filled to within 2 feet of the surface new sinks be dug and the old ones filled up; that holes be dug at each company kitchen for the refuse matter and filled in like manner; that the entire grounds of each regiment be thoroughly policed every day, and the re- fuse matter, including that from stables and wagon yards, buried 2 feet below the surface or burned; that dead animals and the blood and offal from slaughtered animals be not merely covered with a layer of earth bnt buried at least 4 feet in the ground; that the spaces between regi- meiits be kept policed, and no nuisance whatever be allowed anywhere within the limits of this army, and that regimental commanders be held strictly accountable that this most important matter is attended to. I think if these suggestions be carried into effect that we may with reason expect the health of this army to be in as good a state as that of any army in the field. * * *. * * * * Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JONATHAN LETTERMAN Surgeon and Medical Director, Army of the Potomac. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, U. S. A., Assistant Adjutant- General. Directions for cooking in camp. The importance of soup as a diet for troops is not sufficiently appre- hended except by veteran soldiers, those of experience in the field. It cannot be too highly esteemed, and should be used to a much greater extent than it is. Bean soup, when properly made, is one of the best that can be used; when improperly made, one of the worst. The beans must be washed, steeped in water overnight, put on the fire at reveille, and boiled slowly for six hours; a piece of pork, say one ration for three men, put in three hours before dinner; this, eaten with a little pepper and vinegar, makes a wholesome and palatable dish. The cooking is everything; if not well done, it is positively injurious; if well done, it is wholesome. The great principle in making soup is that it must be boiled slowly and for a long time; it cannot be boiled too much. In making beef soup all the bones should be used, together with half ra- tions of beef rice, and desiccated and fresh vegetables, with salt and pepper; the desiccated vegetables should be steeped in water for two hours, and boiled with the soup for three hours; the rice should be added, after having been washed half an hour before the soup is served; the beef must first be put in cold water, and the soup kept at a low boil for five hours. Beef should not in any case be used for cooking until cold. Hard bread will be more palatable and more easy of digestion if placed in the ashes until thoroughly heated; it can also be improved by breaking it in pieces an inch or two square and soaking it thoroughly i Page 351 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 351 CHAP. XXIII.] warm water, then placing it in a frying-pan with a few shces of pork, and cooked for five minutes, stirring it, that all may be cooked alike. Such portions of beef as are not used in making soup should be cut in pieces about the size of a hens egg, with half a ration of potatoes and a small -sized onion cut in slices to one man, and half a ration of desic- cated vegetables previously soaked in cold water for an hour, with a few small pieces of pork, adding salt and pepper, with water sufficient to cover well the ingredients, and stewed slowly for three hours, will make an excellent dish. Beef that is not used thus should be cooked on coals or held before them on a stick or fork, and no salt or pepper put on until cooked; the salt put on before cooking only assists in ab- stracting the juices of the meat and in making it dry and hard when cooked. The secret in using the desiccated vegetables is in having them thoroughly cooked. The want of this has given rise to a prqja- dice against them which is unfounded; it is the fault of the cooking, and not of the vegetables. Pork should be boiled three hours, having been previously soaked in water, to abstract the salt, for three hours, the water being changed twice in that time; when cold and cut in slices, with a piece of bread and a slice of onion, it makes an excellent lunch; cut in slices and toasted over coals it is sweet and good. Coffee should be roasted over a slow fire, constantly stirring it until it becoinea of a chestnut-brown color, and not burnt, as is so commonly done. It should be boiled for twenty minutes, set one side, sweetened, well stirred, and a little cold water added to cause the grounds to settle. Cabbage is more wholesome when cut in shreds and eaten with a little vinegar, pepper, and salt, than when cooked. All fried meats are unwholesome; they should be boiled or broiled. JONATHAN LETTERMAN, Surgeon and Miedical Director, Army of the Potomac. BERKELEY, August 3, 186211.30 p. m. H. W. HALLECK, Commander-in- Chief U. S. Army: I need several more large ferry-boats immediately to maintain proper communication with south side of James River. There should be n~ delay in sending them. I have asked for them several times. Our information tends to the belief that there is a large force be- tween Petersburg and Richmond, as well as on north side of the James River. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 3, 1862. Brigadier-General MEIGS, Quartermaster-General, Washington: It is indispensable that I have more ferry-boats. Please send them forward as soon as possible. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 352 352 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. fCw~. xxm HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Westover Landing, Va., August 3, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to request that Brig. Gen. John H. Mar- tindale, commanding First Brigade, Morells division, be relieved from duty with this army corps. On the morning of the 2d July, immediately after the defeat of the rebel army and while our army was being withdrawn from Malvern Hill, Brigadier-General Martindale did propose to one or more officers of this command or in their hearing, and to one officer of influence and rank of his own brigade in a manner to influence his judgment, to lay down their arms; surrender to the enemy while they could obtain terms. Immediately after making this proposition General Martindale did leave his command and proceed to the rear, preceding by several hours his brigade to camp. These facts, which I am prepared to substantiate, have destroyed whatever of confidence, as a general and disciplinarian, I have had in him for the past two months, and I have reason to believe that of hi~ brigade. If this application be granted, I desire General Martindale may be informed of the ground on which he is relieved. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. J. PORTER, Major. General, Commanding. [Addenda.] SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 280. j7 Washington, October 6, 1862. I. A court of inquiry is hereby app~nted to meet in this city on the 8th instant, or as soon thereafter as practicable, to investigate the charges against Brigadier-General Martindale. Detail for the court.Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, U. S. Army; Brig. Gen. Silas Casey, U. S. Volunteers; Brig. Gen. David B. Birney, U. S. Volunteers. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 178. } Washington, October 31, 1862. I. The court of inquiry appointed to meet in the city of Washington D C on the 8th instant, pursuant to Special Orders, No. 280, dated Head~uarters of the Army, Adjutant-Generals Office, Washington, October 6, 1862, and of which Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, U. S. Army, is president, has investigated the charge preferred by Maj. Gen. Fitz John Porter against Brigadier-General Martindale, U. S. Volunteers. lt being the opinion of the court that the charge against Brigadier- General Martindale is disproved, and that the interests of the service do not require the further investigation of the subject-matter of the inquiry, Brigadier-General Martindale is restored to duty Page 353 Ciiip. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 353 II. The court of inquiry of which Brigadier-General flarney, U. S. Army, is president, is dissolved. By command of Major-General Halleck: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, August 4, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, Commanding the Army: On the 10th July, in answer to General McClellans call for ferry-boats the only two ferry-boats at this place, the Tallacca and the Chancellor Livingston, were sent to him. Two tug- boats, the Maryland and the New Haven, which could be used as ferry-boats, were sent at the same time. Two ferry-boats, the Star and the Eagle, now under repairs inBaltimore, are ordered to be got ready and sent to hini as speedily as possible. All other ferry-boats, if any, under control of the Quarter- masters Department were within his command or serving iii other de- partments out of reach. There were on the 21st July about thirty ste~xmboats anchored off Harrisons Landing, with a large fleet of sailing vessels and barges and canal-boats, all at the disposal of the commander of the Army of the Potomac. I doubt whether any army ever had at command larger means of water transportation on any inland river. The Assistant Secretary of War, Mr. John Tucker, leaves this city for New York this afternoon to endeavor to procure two or three more large ferry-boats for James River. I doubt whether they can reach Harrisons Landing in time to be of any use. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. P. S.I write this note because I see General McClellan informs you that he has asked several times for ferry-boats. I remember only the request about the 10th of July, and I then sent all we had here, and ordered those repairing at Baltimore to be completed and forwarded. There has been no neglect on the part of the Quartermasters Depart- ment. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, August 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORG-E B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Your dispatch of yesterdiay, calling for ferry-boats, was received this morning. I have also seen a dispatch from you to General Halleck, stating that you had asked for ferry-boats several times. On the 10th of July, when I was first informed of your need of such boats, I ordered all the ferry-boats or boats which could be used as ferry-boats which were then in the control of this department to be ~ent to you. The steam ferry-boats Tallacca and Chancellor Livingston were sent at once, with orders to report to Colonel Ingalls, chief quartermaster, 23 R RVOL XI, PT II Page 354 354 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIIL at Harrisons Bar. The tug-boats Maryland and New Haven, which, though not regular ferry-boats, can be used as such, were sent the same day. The oniy other ferry-boats at the disposal of the Quartermasters Department were the Star and the Eagle, both of which were being re- paired in Baltimore, and orders were given to the quartermaster at that I)05t to hasten their repairs and dispatch them as soon as possible. One of them is, I understand, just ready for service, and will be for- warded. The Assistant Secretary of War, Mr. John Tucker, goes this afternoon to Philadelphia and New York to see whether he can obtain three or four more ferry-boats. If he can, they will be dispatched. As these boats are not fit f~r sea voyages except in the most moderate weather, it is doubtful, even if he can obtain them, whether they can reach you in time to be of any use. Such boats can only be obtained by taking them off the ferries in which they find constant employment, au(l, as their removal is very inconvenient to the public, it is difficult to get them. Had your dispatch named the exact number of boats you needed or the number of troops it was necessary to carry at once I should have had some guide; but a general requisition for ferry-boats leaves me in the dark. I thought in sending you at once four boats and ordering two more to be dispatched as soon as their repairs could be completed that I was fully meeting your request. There is a large number of steamers on the river at Harrisons Bar ; some thirty were there on the 25th ultimo, with a large fleet of vessels and barges, which, towed by the steamers, could move a very large number of troops. I estimate the total capacity of the steamers alone at Harrisons Land- ing at nearly 24,000 men per trip. At Fort Monroe arc many more. I am, very respectfully, your obedien t servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. OFFICE COMMISSARY OF SUBSISTENCE, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, 17a., August 4, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Hdqrs. Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Iij reply to the circular of this date from headquarters, relative to the number of days rations on hand at this place, I have the honor to state that the entire command has in its possession, ex- clusive of to-day, not less than four days rations, except Hookers division, which has three days rations on hand. As nearly as we can estimate there are now nine days rations of most of the principal articles of the ration on shore at the western depot, except of hard bread and flour, of which there are two days supply on shore. In addition to the above, there are over fifty days rations for this army on board of transports in this harbor. Steamers with beef cattle are arriving every day or two; there are seven or eight days [rations] of that article now on hand. I am, general, very respectfully, your obediemit servant, H. F. CLARKE, Colonel, Aide-dc-Camp, and Chief of Staff Page 355 dilAr. X2XflI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 355 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 4, 1862. General It. E. LEE, Commanding Department of Northern Virginia: Sin: I have the honor to bring to your notice the following occur- rence: On the day before yesterday, as is reported l\y the commander of one of our gunboats lying near Jamestown Island, a white flag was observed to wave upon the shore. Upon sending a boat to ascertain the cause she was fired into by a party of troops secreted in the bushes. Daring hostilities between civilized belligerents the white flag is invested with a sacred character. Parties invited to converse under it enjoy immu- ni ty from attack. It has been my purpose to conduct the military operations for which I am responsible with due regard to the obligations imposed upon militants by the laws aiid customs of civilized warfare. I trust not to be driven to the alternative of resorting to retaliatory measures to in- duce the troops of your army to acknowledge those obligations as far as my command is concerned. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. BERKELEY, August 5, 18627 a. m. (Received 1.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: Your telegram of yesterday* received and is being carried out as ~)romptIy as possible with the means at my command. No human I)owel could have moved the sick in the time you say you expected them to be moved. Judging from tIme cannonading now going on, Hookers command is sharply engaged this morning. I go to the front in a few minutes. The enemy threatened us last night on the other side of James River. All passed quietly, however. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. C., August 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, James River: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your in- (lorsement of the 29th ultimo, forwarding lists of worthy officers and enlisted mcmi of the volunteer forces, with the view of their being pro- muoted by their Excellencies the respective Governors. The said lists have been separated, as requested -by you, and forwarded, indorsed as follows, viz: The inclosed lists, with those for other States, were received at thi~o General McClellan, with his indorsement herewith. ffice from Major- * See McClellans report, Series I, Vol. XI, Part I, p. 52 Page 356 356 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ECHAP. XXIII. In accordance with his recommendation these lists are respectfully forwarded to His Excellency the Governor of . with full concurrence in the request mate by General McClellan. It is respectfully requested that copies be made for the State records and the orig- inals then returned to the Adjutant-General of the Army. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjiztant General. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CAMP ON JAMES RIVER, August 5, 1862. General JOHN COCHRANE, Washington, D. C.: We have retaken Malvern Hill tO4lay, and from the way I am told the enemy behaved I am convinced that if we had a re-enforcement of 20,000 men we could walk straight into Richmond. Do represent this in the right quarter. E. V. SUMNER, Brevet Major- General, U. S. Army. Approved. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of Star. FORT MONROE, VA., August 5, 18621 a. m. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: I have had submitted to me the orders sent to General McClellan, and I must say I never was more astonished than at their conteiits. The withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac would be the most suici(lai act that any administration could commit and be attended with every disaster that could befall our armycausing its utter demoralization and total destruction and the waste of all its vast eqaipageand I must say, if anything can, would entirely ruin the Union cause by its entire destruction. I can now speak advisedly upon its position and that of the naval force which I command. My standpoint of view is diffllrent from that of any other person in the country, and although I have not ventured, as others, to express the opinions I entertain, I deem it im- perative on me now to state what they are. The naval force has now under its control the supply of the army, and I indulge iu no fears of keeping it entirely free from any serious imnpedi- mnent. The force I have is not entirely sufficient to begin active opera- tions but the moment I receive the, additional vessels the Department is t~ supply me I am ready for active offensive ol)erations, and with the aid of the army on the north bank of the James River I have no doubt that Richmond can be taken. It may require hard knocks, but success, I think, is finally certain. When Fort Darling is taken the way will be open, and a combined attack from the north shore by th Page 357 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 357 army and naval forces will be difficult, nay impossible, to resist. My information relative to the difficulties to be encountered is consistent, and, I think, trustworthy, and my officers and men are all in spirits, and full of energy to undertake their part of the service. An abandon- ment of the army position would have a great effect to destroy the ani- inns of the whole fleet. The aid I could give General McClellan in a retrograde movement would be comparatively trifling, and I have no transportation to offer. The situation of the army is secure under any event. Its position now is strong; the several corps are again re-estab- lished, and all are in excellent spirits for the coming campaign and the investment and taking of Richmond. My information is that the enemy are concentrating their forces near and around Petersburg, and there has been a great withdrawal of troops from Richmond. I think the general impression among the rebels is that it is McClellans inten- tion to throw his force across the river, and while they are nuder this delusion the true movement may be made on Richmond along the north bank of the James River as soon as the communication by rail- road is destroyed, which it is my intention to effect; an& had I been furnished with the scout canoes, to enable me to reach them by the creeks, the bridges and railroads would have been ere this broken up and destroyed. I expressed to you my woful disappointment when I saw the character of the boats sent inc. I shall say nothing further on this at present, but it will readily be seen on an inspecti6iu of the map how completely this would Qperate to prevent the enemys forces from returning to support those in Richmond. A combined movement by General Pope wit h concentrated force and General McClellan at the same time would effect this much-desired object, I have 110 doubt, sul)- pOrte(l as the latter would be by the naval force under my command acting in h arinonious co-operation. Thus much for the onward progress. Now let mcconsider the retreat and abandonment of the position. In the first place an entire demor- alization of the troops and their officers would take place. There is imo transportation adequate to the move, and all the splendid equipage gathered at a vast expense would necessarily have to be destroyed to prevent falling into the hands of the enemy, and as soon as the rebels discovered this intention the whole rear guard of this army would be sacrificed, if not captured, and an entire disgrace fall upon the Union cause, and well it might be said this great cause had been deserted. As to the time it would take is another consi(leration, and this could not be less than five or six weeks at the least if it were done by water, and the rebels, apprised of the moment, would rush to the banks of the James River and cause such annoyances that would make even that route very precarious, and a series of attacks on ouV part necessary to destroy their batteries, which would be fully equal to what is to be encountered toward Richmond. Another course is the oimly one l)ossible in my view, and that is a retreat by land. The Chickahomniny and all its sad details of battle again fought over, and by the time the army reached its transports at Fort Monroe, or higher up, its morale, spirit, and energy would be entirely gone, and instead of being able to re-enforce other army in the field by the Rappahaunock, it would have wasted itself away. Indeed, it would be a sad beacon for tIme country and its armies to mourn over, and to raise the hopes amid strength of the rebels be the greatest blow that the Union cause has ever felt. I trust in God this (lireful act will not be carried oatour noble cause will be ruined if it isand that we may be left here to wend our way to Richmond. General McClellan is confident as I aiim in the resultthe capture of th Page 358 358 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXiIi. rebel capital, and of maintaining the honor, safety, and glory of the Union and its Army. I pray you lay these views before the President, with a hopeful wish on my part that they will be impressed on his mind as forcibly as they are on mine. Truthful and conscientious I know them to be, and a firm conviction on my part, as well as General McClellans, of the disaster which must follow in the one case and a glorious termination in the other. Respectfully, CHARLES WILKES, Commodore. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Harrisons Lauding, TTa., August 5, 1862. Brig. Gen. IR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staft; Headquarters Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Please say to the major-general commanding that if not called off to him to-morrow or likely to be next day, if it meets with his approval I would like to arrange next day to destroy all bridges over Powells Creek and to push to the Suffolk Railroad, destroying all bridges over branches of the Bla~ckwater, which would tend to delay the enemy moving dowim on the right bank of James River. If it meets with his approval 1 would like the aid of some of Colonel Averells cavalry. Will you l)lease give me a reply at as early an hour as possible to- morrow ~ I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. J. PORTER, Major- General. P. S.I expect by this to secure for co-operation a poFtion of the gunboats now employed to protect boats against artillery oii the river; at all events for a short time. Other reasons will be manifest. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Near Richmond, August 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have had the honor to receive your letter of yesterdays date, reporting that a boat sent from one of the United States gun- boats near Jamestown Island to ascertain the cause of the display of a white flag on the shore had been fired into by a party of troops secreted in the bushes. I regret the circumstance, which, if tine, is unauthorized. From the locality mentioned I am led to believe that time party alluded to were not soldiers of the army. It may be probable that boats have landed men who by their acts have exasperated persons on time river, wlmo took this method to revenge their grievances. I am, moss respectfully, your obedient servant, Ii. E. LEE, General, Commanding Page 359 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ~l59 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, August 5, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN Berkeley: I have no re-enforcements to send you. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Fort Monroe, Va., August 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. ER. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I received your letter of the 4th yesterday, instructing me to send a command to level embankments on the James River. Commodore Wilkes has taken upon himself to ascertain and advise me where these embankmettts are. 1 (10 not understand whether you allude to the north as well as the south bank of the river. The difficulty will be to get a command to do the work. I have no force whatever which I can use unless I withdraw a regiment or two froni Suffolk, and from recent indications I think this would be very hazardous. The enemys force on the Blackwater has been strengthened, and General Mansfield has been asking for re-enforcements. I can spare nothing from Williamsburg or Yorktown, and here I have for the fort only 500 men, and at Camp Hamilton only 600 men fit for duty, to do all the guard service for the hospitals, now greatly extended. Commodore Wilkes will see you to-morrow morning, and I ask the further directions of the commanding general. I am, very respectfully, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, Anqust 7, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley: M~ DEAR GENERAL: Your private letter of the 1st instant was re- ceived a day or two ago, but I have been too busy to answer it sooner. If you still wish it I will order Barnard here, but I cannot give you another engineer officer unless you take Benham, for you already have a larger proportion than any one else. I had, most of the time, out West only two, and you, with no larger force, have a dozen engineer officers. I fully agree with you in regard to the manner in which the war should be conducted, and 1 believe the present policy of the President to be conservative. I think some of General Popes orders very injudicious, and have so advised him; bat as I understand they were shown to the President before they were issued I felt unwilling to ask him to counterman(1 them. An oath of allegiance taken through force is not binding aiid to put over the lines those who do not take it is only adding numbers to the rebel army. What he has made the general rule should be only the exception, and I have so advised him. I (leeply regret that you cannot agree with me as to the necessity o Page 360 360 THE PENINSULAR. CAMPAIGN, VA. fOITAP. XXIII. reuniting the old Army of the Potomac. I, however, have taken the responsibility of doing so, and am to iisk my reputation on it. As I told you when at your camp, it is my intention that you shall command all the troops in Virginia as soon as we can get them together; and with the army titus concentrated I am certain that you can take Rich- mond. I must beg of you, general, to hurry along this movement. Your reputation as well as mine may be involved in its rapid execution. I cannot regard Pope and Burnside as safe until you re-enforce them. Moreover, I wish them to be under your immediate command for rea- sons which it is not necessary to specify. As things now are, with separate commands, there will be no concert of action, and we daily risk being attacked and defeated in detail. I would write you more fully, but nearly all my time is occupied with the new drafts and enlist. ments. They are doing well, but several weeks must elapse before we can get the troops into the field. Bragg seems to be concentrating a large force against Buell, and the latter is asking for re-enforcements. When he will reach Chattanooga is a problem I am unable to solve. Yours, truly, H. W. HALLECK. WASHINGTON, D. C., August 7, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley, Va.: General Burnside is without cavalry or artillery, and in that condi- tion an attack on him would be disastrous. There is but one battalion of cavalry an(l three effective batteries here. You must send him the cavalry and artillery ordered with all possible dispatch. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. FORT MONROE, VA., August 7, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: Have been unable to furnish 3,000 stand of arms for the exchanged prisoners just received at Harrisons Lauding from Richmond. There ought to be here always at least 10,000 stand of arms. Will you order the Ordnance Department to furnish some? The ordnance officer here, Lieutenant Baylor, tells me he has an unanswered requisition at Washington. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. HAXALLS, August 8, 18626 a. m. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The night has passed off quietly. The enemy has not advanced beyond Malvern Hill, nor has he any force to the east of the Quaker road. But one vedette (mounted) of his has been seen between this and the blacksmith shop, and he retired on seeing my patrol. I shall send a regiment of infantry and some cavalry forward this morn Page 361 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 361 lug to ascertain more surely what force the enemy has at Malvern. They can easily do this without risk, and it will keep the rebels uncer- tain as to what our designs are. My cavalry had a good nights rest, and, unless 1 receive orders from you by 12 in. to the contrary, I will send Averells cavalry back to him. Colonel Kelly, of the Irish Bri- gade, tells me that General Meagher is expected to-day. Does the general commanding intend he shall command here ~l His brigade was sent me yesterday by General Sumner, at my request, for some support to my batteries. This position is a good one to operate from, an(l can easily be held. I have given orders for two days rations and forage to be brought out at a time. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASOXTOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUAWUERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Westover, Va., August 9, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Hdqrs. Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Uniting the reports from commanding officers on the other side of the river and using the statements of negroes as far as they can be relied upon I gather as follows: That the enemy have been and are still gathering at Petersburg, the vicinity of which, on this side of the Appomattox, they are intrenching. Troops, followed by a large number of wagons, were seen yesterday couming into Petersburg from the north. The people on the opposite [side] of the river ar~ leaving their homes and passing within the lines of tIme army, which extend some 4 miles this side of Prince George Court-House. The negroes are coming this way whenever they can avoid the guards. The people are taking their household property, horses, cat- tle, and grain into Petersburg, and say if the war lasts a year longer they will starve to death. The report among the people is that the raid of artillery opposite us was to draw the gunboats from above and below to enable the other artillery to be planted near Fort Powhatan, but the fire of the ships alarmed the enemy, amid the artillery which had started returned. All is quiet on opposite side. Occasionally scouts of the enemy are seen, but always in small numbers. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. J. PORTER, Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 152. Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., Aug. 9, 1862. On and after the 14th instant all requisitions for ordnance and oxd- nance stores, after being signed by the colonel of the regiment for cavalry and infantry, and by the captain of the battery and chief of artillery of this army for artillery, will be presented to the acting ord- nance officer of the division, and in the Artillery Reserve to the acting ordnance officer of that command. The division ordnance officers will make consolidated requisitions for all stores required for their divisions Page 362 362 TIlE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAP. xXitt. After being signed by the general commanding the division their requi- sitions will be J)resented by the division ordnance officer at the ord- nance depot, and, after being approved by the chief of ordnance, will be immediately issned upon. Requisitions upon the ordnance department are not required to be made in duplicate. Division ordnance officers will be held responsible that the following supply of ammunition for their divisions shall be kept constantly on hand, viz, 250 rounds per gun, including that in the ammunition chests, for artillery; 150 pounds per man, including that in the car- tridge boxes, for cavalry and infantry. In moving, the wagons containing the reserve ammunition will be under the control of division ordnance officers. Ammunition wagons will be distinguished by a horizontal stripe, 6 inches wide, painted on each side of the coverfor artillery ammunition, red; for cavalry, yel- low; for infantry, light blue. The wagons will also be distinctly marked with the number of the corps and division to which they belong and the kind and caliber of ammunition contained. The main depot for the army will be designated by a crimson flag, marked Ordnance Depot, U. S. A. Upon the march, or when the brigades are wi(lely separated from each other, the wagons containing the reserve ammunition for each brigade may, at the discretion of the division commander, be turned over to thebrigade quartermaster, who will draw his supplies fi~omn the division ordnance officer. Division ordnance officers will select from the non-commissione(l officers and privates of the division a competent clerk, and from those of each brigade a mechanic capable of repairing small-arms, who will be provided with a cdmplete set of armorers tools. If skilled in their employment, each will be paid 40 cents per day by the ordnance de- l)artment. A sergeant will also be detailed from each division as an acting ordnance sergeant. Division ordnance officers will be relieved from all duty with their regiments and will report for duty at divis~ou headquarters. In condemning ordnance and ordnance stores officers will be governed by paragraphs 1021, 1022, and 1023, Army Regulations. Unserviceable stores will not pass through division ordnance officers, 1)ut be turned into the depot ordnance officer, accompanied by dupli- cate invoices and receipts, stating the exact condition of the stores. Upon the receipt of this order acting ordnance officers will report for farther instructions to First Lient. Horace Porter c at the end of the ordnance wharf , hief of ordnance, By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, A8sistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 154. Camp near Harri8ons Landing, Va., Aug. 9, 1862. The major-genera.l commanding directs the attention of the officers and soldiers of the Army of the Potomac to the following execntive order by the President, which has been officially published: ExEcuTivE ORDER.] WAR DEPARTMENT, Wasitington, July 22, 1862. First. Ordered that military commanders withuii the States of Virginia, South Car- olina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas, in an or Page 363 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 363 deny manner, seize and use any property, real or personal, which may be necessary or convenient for their several commands for supplies or for other military purposes; and that while property may be destroyed for proper military objects, none shall be de- strOye(l in wantonness or malice. Second. That military and naval commanders shall employ as laborers, within and from said States, so many persons of African descent as can be advantageously used for military or naval purposes, giving them reasonable wages for their labor. Third. That, as to both property and persons of African descent, accounts shall be kept sufficiently accurate and in detail to show quantities an(l amounts, and from whom both property and such persons shall have come, as a basis upon which compensa- tion can be made in proper cases; and the several departments of this Government shall attend to and perform their appropriate parts toward the execution of these orders. By order of the President: EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. No official copy of this order has been received at these headquar- , and the general commanding has for this reason delayed the issuing of a general order to carry into effect the views and directions of the President. Some recent occurrences in this army have, however, shown that it has become necessary to do so to preveiit this executive order being made a pretext for military license. The order of the President accords so substantially with the course uniformly pursued by this army on this Peninsula under the orders and instructions of the general commanding, that no inatetial change in any respect is required thereby in its conduct and government. Personal property necessary or convenient for supplies or other mili- tary purposes of this army will be, as heretofore, seized and used by the proper quartermasters or subsistence officers upon the orders of commanders of army corps; or, in cases of troops employed on detached service where army corps commanders are not accessible, by order of the officer iii command of such detached force. In all cases the officers thus making the seizures shall take an ac- count showing the kind and quantities of property seized and by whose command the amounts of its estimated value and the names of the persons from whom the same shall have come. Whenever circum- stances admit of so doing receipts will be given t~ the owners or their agents, specifying simply the particulars above mentioned. Copies of all such accounts and receipts will be transmitted in the usual manner by the officers making them to these headquarters. All officers and soldiers of this army are enjoined and ordered to ab- stain from all seizures of private property except in the mode above J)rescribed; all other appropriations will be regarded an(l punished as pillage The idea that private property may be l)lundere(l with im- punity is perhaps the very worst that can pervade an army. Maraud- ing degrades as men and demoralizes as soldiers all who engage in it and returns them to their homes unfitted for the pursuits of honest in- dustry. This army is composed mostly of young men, and the general commanding, to whose care they are intrusted, owes it to the l)arents who have sent their sons an(l to the communities that have sent the flower of their youth into the military service of their country to warn and restrain them from an evil so pernicious. The order of the President requires the al)l)licatiOn of a similar rule in the use of real property. This, however, does not apply to such uses as are insel)arable froni military operations, to wit, marches, camps, pasturage, hospitals, depots, quarters, and damages occasioned by active hostilities; but no use should be lna(le or injury done to real propcrty beyond what is actually necessary or convenient for military purposes. The destruction of aiiy species of property in wantonness or malic Page 364 364 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CITAP. XXIII. is expressly prohibited by the Presidents order, as well as by the Arti- cles of War and the usages of all civilized nations. All commanding officers are earnestly enjoined to exercise the utmost vigilance on this subject. Straggling and trespassing are the invariable indications~ot a tendency to this description of crime. Inhabitants, especially women and children, remaining peaceably at their homes must not be molested; and wherever commanding officers find families peculiarly expbsed in their persons or property to maraud- ing from this army, they will, as heretofore, so far as they can do so with safety and without detriment to the service, post guards for their protection. In protecting private property no reference is intended to per~ons held to service or labor by reason of African descent. Snch persoims will be regarded by this army, as they heretofore have been, as occu- pying simply a peculiar legal status under State laws, which condition the military authorities of the United States are not required to regard at all in districts where military operations are made necessary by the rebellious action of the State governments. Persons subject to suspicion of hostile purposes, residing or being near our forces, will be, as heretofore sub to arrest and detention until the cause or necessity is removed. All such arrested parties will be sent, as usual, to the provost-marshal-general, with a statement of the facts in each case. The general commanding ~kes this occasion to remind the officers and soldiers of this army that we are engaged in supporting the Con- stitution and laws of the United States an(l in suppressing rebellion against their authority; that we are not engaged in a war of rapine, revenge, or subjugation; that this is not a contest against populations, but against armed forces and political organizations; that it is a strug- gle carried on within the United States, and should be conducted by us upon the highest principles known to Christian civilization. Since this army commenced active operations, persons of African de- scent, including those held to service or labor under State laws, have always been received, protected, and employed as laborers at wages. Hereafter it shall be the (luty of the provost-marshal-general to cause lists to be made of all persons of African descent employed in this army as laborers for military purposes, such lists being made sufficiently accurate and in detail to show from whom such persons shall have conic. Persons so subject an(l so employed have always understood that after being received into the military service of the United States in any capacity they could never be reclaimed by their former holders. Except upon such understanding on their part the order of the Presi- dent as to this class of persons would be inoperative. The general commanding therefore feels authorized to declare to all such employ~s that they will receive l)ernlanent military protection against any com- pulsory return to a condition of servitude. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 10, 1802. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Gommanding Seventh Corps: GENERAL: On the 8th instant a steamer from Fort Monroe passe Page 365 CHAP. XX~.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 3.65 this army carrying a flag of truce on its way to City Point and returned without reporting at these headquarters. The commanding general desires that an explanation be required of the officers concerned of this violation of the requirements of military courtesy as well of military rnle, which dictate that no communication be had with the enemy through a flag of truce except with the consent and knowledge of the general in command. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, A ssistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., August 10, 1862. The general commanding directs that you have your corps in readi- ness to march on temporary service to-morrow at 2 oclock p. m. The men will be provided with 40 cartridges in boxes and two days rations in haversacks. Fonr (lays extra rations of subsistence and three days forage for animals, with 60 cartridges per man, will be loaded in wagons ready to move with the column. Such of your well men as have not muskets will be supplied at once by requisitions npon the ordnance department or from men who are sick. You will give directions to have such of your old tents cut up as may be necessary to supply deficiencies in shelter-tents. The men will march as light as possible, and will leave everything except what is absolutely necessary for the march. The requirements of General Orders, No. 153, from these headquarters to be carried out at once in every particular where it does not conflict with these instructions. Should you require more wagons than you have you will apply to the chief quartermaster. By command of Major-General McClellan: JAS. A. HARDIE, Lieutenant-Colonel, Aide-de-Camp, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Ger& . GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRs. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 153. f Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., Aug. 10, 62. I. The following allowance of wagons is authorized: For the headquarters of an army corps, four. For the headquarters of a division or brigade, three. For a battery of light artillery or squadron of cavalry, three. For a full regiment of infantry, six. This allowance will in no case be exceeded, but will be reduced to correspond as nearly as practicable with the number of officers and men actually present. All means of transportation in excess of the prescribed standard will be immediately turned in to the depot, with the exception of the authorized supply trains, which will be under the direction of the chief quartermasters of corps. The chief quartermaster of this army will direct the organization ot the sup1ily trains. II. The army must be prepared to bivouac when on marches awa Page 366 366 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. ~11 from the depots. The allowance of tents will therefore be immediately reduced to the following standard, and no other accommodations must be expected until a permanent depot is established: For the headquarters of an army corps, division, or brigade, one wall- tent for the general commanding and one to every two officers of his staff. To each full regiment, for the colonel, field, and staff officers, three wall-tents For all other commissioned officers, one shelter-tent each. For every two non-commissioned officers, soldiers, officers servants, and camp followers, as fir as they can be supplied, one shelter-tent. One hospital tent will be allowed for office purposes at corps head- quarters, and one wall-tent at division and brigade headquarters. All tents in excess of this allowance will be inimediately turned in to the depots. Tents of other patterns required to be exchanged for shelter-tents will be turned in as soon as the latter can be obtained from the Quar- termasters Department. Under no circumstances will they be allowed to be carried when the army moves. III. The allowance of officers baggage will be limited to blankets, a small valise or carpet-bag, and a reasonable mess kit. All officers will at once reduce their baggage to this standard. The men will carry no baggage except blankets and shelter-tents. The chief quartermaster will provide storage on the transports for the knapsacks of the men amid for the officers surplus baggage. IV. Hospital tents must not be diverted from their legitimate use, except for officers, as authorized in I)aragraph II. N. The wagons allowed to a regiment or battery must carry nothing but forage for the teams, cooking utensils for the men, hospital stores, small rations, and officers b~iggage. One of the wagons allowed for a regiment will be used exclusively for hospital stores, under the direction of the regimental surgeon. The wagon for regimental headquarters will carry grain for the officers horses. At least omie and a half of the wagons allowed to a battery or squadron will carry graiu. VI. Hospital stores, amnmnnition, quartermasters stores, and sub- sistence stores in bulk will be transported in special trains. VII. Commanding officers will be held responsible that the reduction above ordered, especially of officers baggage, is carried into etThct at once, and corps commanders are especially charged to see that this re- sponsibility is enforced. VIII. On all marches quartermasters will accomapany and conduct their trains, under the orders of their comnmnanding officers, so as never to obstruct the movement of troops. IX. All quartermasters and commissaries of subsistence will attend in person to the receipt and issue of supplies for their commands, and will keep themselves constantly informed of the situation of the depots, roads, & c. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILL1~iMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 367 361 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. Abstract front Tri-snonthly Return of the Army of the Potomac, .Afaj. Gee. George B. McClellan commanding, Jor August 10, 1862. Command. General staff U. S. Engineers (Duane) Engineer Brigade (Woodbury) Cavaliy division (Stoneman) Escort to headquarters (McIntyre) Provot guard (A. Porter) ... - 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery Quartermasters department guard (In. galls). U. S. Signal Corps (Myer) Total Second Army Corps (Sumners): Staff. Sedgwicks division Frenchs division Kimballs brigade 6th New York Cavalry Companies D and K. Artillery Reserve (Bartlelt) Total Third Army Corps (Heintzelmans): Saff Artillery Reserve (Bramhall) Hookers division Kearnys division Squadron 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry.. Total Fourth Army Corps (Keyes): Staff 6th New York Cavalry, Third Bat. talion. Artillery Reserve (West) . First Division (Abererombies) Second Division (Pecks) Total Fifth Army Corps (Fitz John Porters): Staff Artillery Reserve (Hunt) Marchs division Sykes division . Seymours division Total Sixth Army Corps (Franklins): Staff 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry detach. ment. First Division (Stocums) Second Division (W. F. Smiths) Total Seventh Army Corps, Fort Monroe, and vicinity (Dix). Grand total Present for duty. a a 0 41 3 173 41 1,041 207 4, 963 5 121 13, 684 45 979 26 299 311 108 434 8, 380 7 336 7, 857 190 4180 103 2, 217 41 82 11 317 651 14,633 32 9 3-20 329 7, 863 133 7,553 2 1l8 685 15,854 9; 7 92 4 302 272 6, 128 338 7, 243 640 13, 765 6.... 33 730 223 5, 049 185 4, 724 270 7, 361 729 18, 784 30 2 105 238 6,997 296 7,184 1154614286 445 9, 196 a a6 175 1, 082 5, 172 1-27 487 1, 024 319 8, k-9 7, 831 4, 293 2,320 86 3-28 14, 860 329 7, 475 7, 536 120 *15 469 9 99 316 6, 401) 7, 535 14, 339 783 (8) 4 s98 7 326 ~l3 007 10 7 233 7, 478 14,723 9, 574 a a a a a 6.6 a.Ct a6 42 48 .134 1 194 1 ..tTh o8~3 7359 1)0 831 1 037 373 501 131 1801 ____ 99631 1 47) 9,196 I 11 0Th1 5,318 6,806 2, 916 3, 374 981 131 387 420 . 18 17,722 21,847 36 12 131 . 3771 4091 18 9,382 32,660 14 9,146 12,7481 12 110 113 19, 247 23,973 . ... 44 ~1 111 l~L ~t6l 4a1 20 7,338 11 14~ 7 8,674 1344~ I 10 16,493 1 2o 20.) I 37 9061 2312 I 82 7,163 9 941 18 5,545; 7 3001 10 8,280 K 10 43 16 21,902 ~0 313 126 1211 16)1 7,866 ~ 26 _____ 17 10,837 22,207 -----1 10,892 n,7381 I 20 343 4,130 94,918 90,372 113,030 149,758 37 Picecs of astillery. 37I 32 6 CeAP. XXlII.] The original shows 15,860, there being an error either in the total or the items thereof. Not reported on the original. + Morells division omitted on the original. Original shows 544, an error in addition. Original reports 90,772, but see notes 8, and ~ Page 368 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. 368 [CHAP. XXIIL HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Port Monroe, Va., August 11, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE R MCCLELLAN, Commanding Department of Virginia: GENERAL: I have just received the communication of General Will- iams in regard to the flag of truce sent from here to City Poiut last week, and I regret exceedingly that the failure to report should have been regarded as a want of courtesy to you as the general command- ing or as a violation of military rule. Before I took command at this post and ever since a steamer has been sent to City Point, with more or less regularity as to time, to convey letters for our prisoners in the insurgent States, to receive letters for theirs, aiid to land persons or- dered to be sent through our lines by the Secretary of War. Of this practice I supposed you were aware. The instructions have always been the same, to deliver the letters and the persons sent nuder the protection of the flag, and return immediately to this post. The flag sent last week was for these purposes and with the usual ~instructions. As the steamer was about leaving some ten or twelve released prisoners arrived here from Baltimore, with instructions from the War Department to deliver them for exchange. Thinking it a favorable opportunity to get them off our hands I sent them to City Point, and took a receipt, which has been delivered to General Thomas to-day. When you were on the Chickahominy it would not have been practi- cable for the officer in charge of the flag to report, and since the change of position to the James River the old routine has been continued with- out adverting to the altered circumstances. If, therefore, there is a fault, it is entirely my own and not that of the officer; and it has arisen from my construction of the obligation which a flag of truce imposes on those who use it. I supposed it to be my duty to send the vessel bearing it to her destination and then to order her back to the point of departure, without stopping anywhere for any purpose, but confining her rigidly both in going and returning to the specific purpose for which she was sent. With this view of the sacred character of the flag of truce, when I went to meet General Hill and desired to see you on my way I did not raise the flag until after I had passed your headquarters and took it down the moment I reached them on my return. If I am in error it is the result of too strict a construction of my duty, and I regret that it shouldliave been considered as a departure, even through inadvertence, from the rules of military subordination or courtesy. It is hardly necessary for me to add that no flag will be sent from thi8 post hereafter without instructions from you. When persons ar- rive here with orders from the War Department to be sent across the lines I will retain them and advise you. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. HARRISONS LANDING, August 11, 1862. IMI. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: We are embarking a cavalry regiment of 1,000 men and horses. It will require three days for the medical department to ship away th Page 369 CHAP. XXHI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 369 sick. Most of our large transports are used uow in that service. If we are to embark from Yorktown or Fort Monroe we shall require many of those horse sailing vessels. The command is under orders to move at 2 to-day somewhere. If we are expected to arrive in time to beat back the rebels from the Potomac there should be great haste. You will recollect that it required six weeks time to transport this army from Alexandria, where there were very excellent facilities. The bat- teries that went to Aquia recently were forty-eight hours in embarking, and we pushed them to the utmost. I refer to this merely to serve as some guide to your calculations. It is my duty and heartfelt wish to assist all in my power. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief Quartermaster. HAxALLS, August 11, 1862. General R. B. MAiwY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Your note of this date received.* There are moments when the most decided action is necessary to save us from great disas- ters. I think such a moment has arrived. The enemy before us is weak. A crushing blow by this army at this time would be invaluable to disconcert the troops of the enemy to the north of us. That blow can be made in forty-eight hours. Two corps would do it, and be in position to go wherever else they may be ordered by that time. From all I can learn there are not36 ,000 men between this and Rich- motid, nor do I believe they [can] get more before we can whip them. I have guides ready, and know the roads sufficiently well to accomplish anything the general wants. I write this as a friend. I shall willingly carry out the generals orders, be the5~ what they may, but I think he has an opportunity at this time few men ever attain. Destroy this, and whatever I have said shall not be repeated by me. Very truly, yours, A PLEASONTOX. HAXALLS, August 11, 18628 p. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: It is just reported from the pickets that the enemy has been pounding and making a good deal of noise this afternoon at Tur- key Bridge, creating the impression that they were rebuilding it. I have directed that they be strictly watched during the night and shall report anything that occurs. My two infantry regiments of the Irish Brigade are small, about 400 men each, but my position is very strong, and I will make them answer. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. * Not found. 24 R RYOL XI, PT II Page 370 370 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CRAr. XXIIL HDQRS. (JAVALUY DIVISION, August 11, 1862. Number of horsc8 belonging to the regiments comprising the Cavalry Division. a ri~ FIRST BRiGADE, Colonel AVERELL. 3d Pennsylvania Cavalry (Lieutenant-Colonel Owen) 643 31 4th Pennsylvania Cavalry (Colonel Childs) 858 71 1st New York Cavalry (Lieutenant-Colonel You Schickfuss) 804 38 5th United States Cavalry (Captain MoArthur) 430 23 2,763 163 SECOND BRICADE, General PLEASONTON. 1st United States Cavalry (Captain lieno) 299 6th United States Cavalry (Captain Kautz) 593 62 8thullino s Cavalry (MajorCiendenin) 814 . 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry (Colonel Gregg) . 731 7 2, 437 69 INDEPENDENT REGIMENT. 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry (Lieutenant-Colonel Smith) 618 17 Total. 5, 820 249 Grand total serviceable and unserviceable 6,069 Respectfully submitted. A. J. ALEXANDER, Brevet Brigadier- General, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., August 11, 1862. As the army is ordered to be in readiness for a Inovelnent at a mo- ments notice, and to be prepared to bivouac until a permanent depot is established, the general comlnanding directs that the allowance of tents to officers serving at these headquarters be reduced to one wall- tent for every two officers and one common tent for every two officers servants. All tents in excess of this allowance, except such as may be actually necessary for office purposes, will b~ turned in to the assistant quartermaster at hea~juarters. Officers will be expecte(l to reduce their baggage, as far as practica- ble, and especially to take no large trunks or boxes, and they will see that this reduction is exten(led to their servants and to the enlisted men serving nn(ler their orders, some of whom have now more bao-- gage than is allowed to commissioned officers. The snrplus baggage should be plainly marked and turned over to the assistant quarter- Inaster, ~vho will have it stored on the transports. These reductions m ust be ma(le immediately on the receipt of the order to move. Captain Dandy will reassign the wagons as to con- form niore nearly to the dilninished number of officers now serving at headquarters and the reductions above ordered. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General Page 371 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 371 CIROtTLAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., August 11, 1862. It is not expected that the troops will move from their present posi- tion to-day, but corn manding ollicers will proceed to carry out with all possible dispatch the arrangements prescribed in General Orders, No. 153, from these headquarters, of the 10th instant, on the subject of the allowance of transportation, tents, and baggage. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.s OFFICE, No. 101. Washington, August 11, 1862. The following order is published to the Army: EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, July 11, 1562. Ordered, That Maj. (lIen. Henry XV. lialleck be assigned to command the whole land forces of the United States as General-in-Chief, and that he repair to this capital as soon as he can with safety to the positions and operations within the department now under his special charge. A. LINCOLN. Major-General Halleck, having been assigned, in accordance with the above order of the President, assumed command of the Army as Gen- eral-in-Chief on the 23d of July, 1862. By command of Major-General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, August 12, 1862. Col. D. D. TOMPKINS, Assistant Quartermaster- General ,Yew York: Charter and dispatch to Fort Monroe, to report to General Dix and await orders, a fleet of transports. They should be capable of ascend- ing the Jalnes, the York, and the Potomac Rivers. Schooners, brigs, and ships going out iu ballast to load with troops, artillery, wagons, and horses. Two hundred such vessels should be dispatched immediately, chartered by the day for not less than ten days and as lnnch -longer as the Government needs them. Send back ~vith ntmost dispatch all steamers bringing to New York or other ports near you sick from ilar. risons Landing. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, August 12, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding Army of the Potomac, Harrisons Bar: GENERAL: I ordered long since all the steamers that could be char- tered in Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston to be sent t Page 372 372 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. (Cnir. XXIII. Harrisons Bar, or if they could not ascend the river to report at Fort Monroe and await orders. All that could be chartered were thus scnt and added to the fleet which has been for weeks in the Chesapeake and James. There were thirty steamers at Harrisons Bar when I saw you there, so reported to inc by Colonel Ingalls, chief quartermaster Army of the Potomac; a large number at Hampton Roads. There were some hun- dreds of sailing vessels at Fort Monroe and in the James. General Barusides vessels, bot Ii sail and steam, were ordered back for your useafter moving his troops to Aquia Creek. By sacrificing the hay in the vessels in the river, throwing over or landing the deck load, which is generally heavy, I supposed you would have the means ot moving from Fort Monroe as fast as the men could be embarked and disembarked. The steamers alone at Harrisons Landing were estimated to carry from that distance at a single trip 20,000 to 25,000 men. The embarkation of the wagons and horses will take time. No more steamers can be obtained without breaking up the lines of ferries and transportation by which the new levies can be brought to the seat of ~var. I have to-day directed the quartermaster in Philadelphia to send to Fort Monroe to await orders all the roomy schooners he can get in that port, and the quartermaster at New York to send two hundred sailing vessels, if he can get them, with the same orders. I am, very respectfully, your obediemit servant, M. C. MEJUS, Quartermaster- General. BERKELEY, VA., August 12, 18624 p. m. (Received 11.8 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: Information from various sources received within a few days past goes to corroborate the e~-idence you have received that the rebel army at Richmond has been much weakened by detachments sent to Gordons- ville, and that the remaining forces have been so much dispersed be- tween Richmond and this l)lace on 1)0th sides James River as to render it doubtful if they can be concentrated again ralfl(lly. I). H. hill, with a division or more, is in the vicinity of Petersburg; others are along the south bank of James River back of Fort Darling, and I am quite certain that Longstreet, with about 18,000 men, n ow occupies an in- trenched position, which can pro~ably be turned, and is about 3 miles above Malvern Hill. I can iii forty-eight hours advance on hini amid either drive him into the works around Richmond or defeat and cap- ture his force. Should 1 succeed in accomplishing the latter I see but little difficulty, if my informuatiomi prove correct, in l)ushing rapidly for- ward into Richmond. This would involve the co-operation of all muy available force, but the question would soon be decided, and if success- ful, I should require re-enforcements to maintain my comnmunicatiomis. This effort would, it seems to me, have the efl~ct to (lraw back the forces now before General Pope and thus relieve Washington from all dammger. One of my general officers, who for five (lays past has held a position near Malvern Hill, in a letter just received, says: The enemy before us is weak, and from all 1 can learn there is not 36,000 men be- tween this and Richmond, nor do I believe they can get more before we can drive them. * * I have good guides, & c Page 373 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tTNION. 373 General Barnard, chief of my engineers, is decidedly in favor of this movement at this time. Under these circumstances I consider it my duty to present the fore- going information, and for your consideration, as under existing orders I do not feel authorized to make the movement. I shall continue to forward re-enforcements and sick as rapidly as transports arrive, and have given the necessary instructions to insure no delay in moving the army. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. BERKELEY, VA, August 12, 18627 p. in. Ma~j. Geii. II. W. HALLECK: One thousand and seven sick sent off to-day. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HAXALLS, August 12, 18629.30 a. in. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of StalT: GENERAL: The lieutenant-colonel commanding the two infantry regi- ments of the Irish Brigade reports to me this morning that he has not more than 650 in both regiments, each being about 300 strong. He also says that his men are without blankets, & c., and are worn down with the duties they have lately performed. What these duties are I doiit know, but I imagine they want to get away to Harrisons Landing. I think it my duty to report this to you, for whatever men I have I want them good ones. I am highly pleased with the conduct of my own brigade and that of the batteries, and should not like to do them the injustice of placing them with infantry that do not inspire confidence. If, therefore, any arrangements can be effected to relieve these regiments by better ones the service would be benefited. I should like to be notified when the troops on my right are drawn in, th~t I may prevent being surprised on that side. The enemy sent up four white rockets in quick succession last night about 11 ~ in., and have been firing on my pickets pretty constantly without advancing. Two of my men were reported wounded yesterday evening. Please send me two or three copies of the best map you have of the Peninsula. I wish to study the roads and make inquiries concerning them in case I should require the information en route to Yorktown, Fort Monroe, or Richmond. I am, general, very respectfiilly your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HAXALLS, August 12, 18627 p. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Pickets quiet to-day. A rebel officer came down to th Page 374 374 1~HE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [(hiAP. xxiii. mill and called out to our pickets that if they did not fire his pickets would not. No reply was returned. The Port Royal received no orders today about firing at Malvern. I have posted guards at Haxalls and iRoyalls. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTOX Brigadier. General, Gommanding. The boats that crossed the river last night were contrabands, that have gone in to Harrisons Lauding. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC Camp near Harrisons Landing, Va., August 12, 1862. Corps and other independent commanders will have loaded up at once six days rations of all the components except meat, which will be for four daysbacon or salt pork. Four days short forage for wagon animals will be carried in each wagon. Four days short forage for the cavalry and artillery horse~ will also be taken. When the march commences all the men must have two days rations: in their haversacks. Each man will have his cartridge box filled, and 60 rounds additional[ will be carried in the wagons. The artillery ammunition will be limited to that which can be carried~ in the limber boxes and caissons. The wagons will not be loaded with over 1,800 pounds, including forage. As soon as the wagons are loaded commanders will ~report to head- quarters what number they have disposable. A reasonable amount of axes, spades, and picks will be carried in the. division trains. These arrangements will be made this day. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General.. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,~ Fort Monroe, Va., August 13, 1862i.. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding Department of Virginia: GENERAL: I deem it my duty to call your attention to the conditiont of my command. The force ~at this post is so much reduced that it is. impossible to perform the guard and police duty required. We have- only about 300 men for duty. The Fifth Maryland, the only regiment at Camp Hamilton, is now doing guard duty every other day,.and I have a statement from the surgeon that the sickness of the troops is aug-- mented by this severe service. The term of service of three of my regiments expires during the preseuP month. Two of them are at Suffolk, and the third is divided betwQen. Yorktown, Fort Wool, and the hospital at Point Lookout. A reference to my monthly report forwarded to-day will show th Page 375 CTTAP. XXTIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 375 necessity of re-enforcing me promptly. At this post especially I must have another regiment, or the hospitals at Camp Hamilton cannot be properly guarded. Begging your early attention to the subject, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. HAxALLS, August 13, 18626 a. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Stafi: GENERAL: Last night the infantry pickets reported the enemy ad. vancing with heavy artillery. I sent out to see, and found they had drawn up the sluice-gates at the mill pond, and that the water was flood- ing the country. I sent a party, closed down the gates, and examined the mills, where none of the enemy is to be found. I was qnestioning a contraband a day or two ago about all the roads leading to Richmond from Malvern, and I judge they have obliged the darkey to communicate to them my questions. The darkey lives at the mill, and I did not want to remove him to excite suspicion. The enemy have, no doubt, the idea we are about to advance on Richmond and endeavored to cut off the road by water. This I con- sider a sign of weakness on their part. I shall send scouts to-day to see if they are still on Malvern. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., August 14, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Berkeley, Va.: Assistant Secretary Fox suggests that one of the large guns near Fort Monroe be put iii battery at Newport News, so as to be in readi- ness for the new Merrimac. A telegram of last night from General Pope confirms former reports that the enemy was fairly repulsed at Cedar Mountain. He is probably waiting for re-enforcements. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 14, 1862. Col. D. CAMPBELL, Williamsburg: Establish your headquarters at Barhamsville or Ropers Church. Send two or three squadrons toward New Kent as far as Slaters house, and one or two squadrons from Barhamsville toward Eltham, about 3 or 4 miles out. Send a squadron to Diascund Bridge, to communicate with Colonel Averell. Let all the squadrons you send out remain constantly on the alert at the positions assigned them until relieved. Should anything occur, that is, should the enemy be seen or heard of, communicate i Page 376 376 TIlE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXflt mediately with Colonel Averell via Diascund Bridge. The squadrons sent out should be placed in positions where they can resist any cav- alry force that may threaten them. You will be in position to-morrow at as early an hour as practicable, and receive orders from Colonel Averell. Communicate frequently with the troops at new pontoon bridge at Bar- retts Ferry, near mouth of Chickahominy. General F. J. Porter will cross the bridge to-morrow. Inform General Van Alen that you have been ordered to advance, but give him no l)articulars of your movements or those of this army. General Van Alen will be instructed to send you all his cavalry except one squadron. Regard this dispatch as confidential. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, ]Ifajor- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 155.* fCamp near ~ Landing, Va., Aug. 14, 62. 1. In the contemplated movement, nuless otherwise directed, the train of each division will precede the division, arranged in the order of march of the troops, and will be itself preceded by an advanced guard taken from the division. The train of the reserve artillery of the corps will go with the train of the leading division. Each quartermaster and his assistants must be with his train, and re~ qnire it to take at the proper time its appropriate place in the column and keep it, and will see that his wagons do not check the march of the troops or wagons in the rear. 2. Each regimental commander will be held responsible for delay cansed by any wagons of the train of his regiment not being ready. So, too, with each brigade and division commander regarding his supply train. Any train not prepared to move at its appropriate time will be held, to fall in the rear of the division trains. 3. Trains of batteries attached to divisions will accompany that of the division in the order of march. Corps commanders will designate the order of march of the supply trains. 4. Staff officers not otherwise occupied will find their appropriate place in the line of march, ascertaining the cause of any detention that may occur. 5. On arriving in camp each commander will see to all necessary arrangements, such as requiring wagons to be camped quickly, prop- erly faced, bridges to be made, fences removed, ditches filled, & c., to enable trains to leave and re-enter the road without delay. 6. If troops or artillery are required to pass wagons at any time they will pass on the left, and the wagons will close sufficiently to the right and keep moving if possible. Trains must be kept closed, and must not be cut by other trains, artillery, or troops. 7. During a temporary halt, quartermasters will close up and double or park their trains in convenient places near the road so as to allow rear trains to move up, thus shortening the line occupied by the column. 8. No accident, such as breaking down of a wagon, balking of a team, * The following [above] was not published as a general order. It was directed to be considered a circular, without number. General Orders, No. 155, of the series of 1862, bears date September 9 Page 377 a CRAP. XXIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tYNIOI~. 377 & c., must on any consideration be allowed to delay the wagons in the rear of the one specially affected. An escort must be left with it and the train mnst move on. 9. Quartermasters will see that their animals are well watered before starting out. No stoppage must be made for the purpose of watering while on the road. Wagon wheels will not be locked for the descent of hills, except where it cannot be avoided without danger. 10. To each brigade train the brigade commander will assign a guard of companies amounting to 100 men. No other men will be permitted to go -with the wagons. These companies will permit no stragglers of any command whatever to join the train, compelling all such to join their own regiments or march as prisoners and assist the guard in giving aid to the wagons. The officers will exercise their cool judgment and energy to expedite the march and not wait to be asked for assistance. 11. Commanders of corps, divisions, brigades, regiments, companies, and guards will take the necessary steps to prevent straggling, and punish, on arrival in camp, all offenders. Men must not be permitted to leave the ranks. At the end of every hour on the march there will be a rest of five minutes, and the men must avail themselves of these intervals to re-arrange belts, obey the calls of nature, & c. 12. The hour of marching, the route, and the place of encampment will be specially communicated to each corps commander. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARRISONS LANDING-, August 15, 1862. M. C. 1VIElGS, Quartermaster- General: Your dispatch of the 13th is just received. We have embarked troops from this point to the full extent of our ability. Colonel Falls and others will tell you so. When we reach Yorktown and Fort Monroe the army will be sent off rapidly. Up to this moment the thing could not have been done faster. I believe I comprehend the whole question. I have the will to execute your orders, and shall be ably assisted by Captain Sawtelle and our other officers and agents. The movement to the rear has commenced. This river will be clear of vessels early to- morrow. Captain Sawtelle will go by water in charge of the fleet and to make arrangements for embarkation at Yorktown, Newport News, and Fort Monroe. I shall go by land to conduct the trains, & c. Rely upon us, general. There shall be no unsatisfactory delay that we can avoid in the quartermasters department. The vessels sent to us should assemble at Fort Monroe. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant- Colonel, Aide-de- Camp, and Chief Quartermaster. HAXALLS, August 15, 18621.30 p. m. Gen. B. B. MA~cv, Chief of Stafl~: GENERAL: Yesterday a free negro living near Malvern came in and told me that the enemy had obstructed all the roads near the rive Page 378 378 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. leading to Richmond, and that the only road they had open to Rich- mond at this time is the Middle road whi the blacksmith shop. ch joins the Quaker road at I am inclined to believe that this is correct, and, if true, this will be the road upon which they may attempt to march upon us. There are only two outlets for this road, one on the first Long Bridge road and the other the second Long Bridge road, that can lead to my rear. These two roads I am now guarding very careftilly, and will ob- struct them as soon as I receive orders to move. iDo me the favor to mention in my final instructions the particular routes the general desires me to pursue, that I may instruct my officers advisedly. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTOX Brigadier- General, Oommanding. P. S.Will it be necessary for me to have guides? I open this to say have just heard from my squadron on second Long Bridge road. It has been within 4 miles of the Chickahominy and heard nothing of the enemy, and is now stationed at Mr. Walkers, on that road. A.P. [AUGLTST 15-SEPTEMBER 2,1862.For correspondence relating spe- cially to transfer of troops from the Peninsula and not embraced in Mc- Clellans general report, see Series I, Vol. XII, Part III.] BARRETTS FERRY, CHICKAHOMINY, August 17, 18622.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Commanding U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have had this morning a full conversation with General Buruside. To be perfectly frank with you, I must say that I did think from some of your recent telegrams that you were not disposed to treat me iii a candid or friendly manner. This was the more grating to me because I was conscious that although I (liffered from you in opinion I had done so with entire frankness and loyalty, and that I had not de- layed one moment in preparing to carry out your orders. I am glad to say that Buruside has satisfied me that you are still my friend; in return I think he can satisfy you that I have loyally carried out your instructions, although my own judgment was not in accordance with yours. Let the past take care of itself. So long as I remain in command of this army I will faithfully carry out the new programme. I feel quite confident that I will have everything across the Chicka- hominy by daylight. If all is then quiet I will regard my command as reasonably safe, and will feel justified iii moving it solely with refer- ence to its speedy embarkation. Very respectfully and truly, yours, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General Page 379 CHAP. XNIII-] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 379 FORT MONROE, August 17, 18621 p. in.. (Received 4.45 p. in.) Hon. L M. STANTON: Your dispatch is received. II will come to Washington as soon as possible. I am now occupied with very important duties. General Kearnys division is near Williamsburg. Porter is expected at Hamp- ton to-night. Everything is moving successfully. JOHN A. DIX, Major. General. FORT MONROE, August 18, 1862. lion. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: The ordnance officer here patched np some 2,800 arms of various cal- ibers for the exchanged prisoners and sent them to General McClellan, but the importance of this post is such that there ought to be from 5,000 to 10,000 stand of arms always on hand in gOO(l order and ready for issue. The principal object of my dispatch of the 7th instant was to make this suggestion. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. FORT MONROE, August 20, 18629 a. m. Maj. Gen. E. D. KEYES, Commanding Fourth Corps, Yorktown, Va. Yonr corps is to halt at Yorktown until further orders. If you have passed beyond the viciiiity of that place when this reaches you, you will at once return to Yorktown and there await further orders, which may not reach you for some days. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General- HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, August 20, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, 6~ommanding, & c.: GENERAL: I have just received yours of the 17th by General Burn- side. You can scarcely imagine the pressnre on me for the last two weeks and the anxiety I have had in regard to your movements. When I felt that the safety of Washington depended on the prompt and rapid transfer of your army it is very probable that my messages to you were more urgent and pressing thami guarded in their language. I cer- tainly meant nothing harsh, but I did feel that you did not act as promptly as I thought the circumstances required. I deemed every hour a golden one, the loss of which could not be repaired. I think you did not attach so much value to the passing hours; but perhaps I was mistaken. I know that there are several little matters which ~have annoyed you; they could not be avoided. You asked a private telegraphic cipher. It could not be given, a Page 380 380 THE PENINSULAH CAMPAIGN, VA. (CITAP. XXIII all telegraphic messages were required to be shown to the President an(l Secretary of War. You also asked certain changes of officers, which I could not possibly make. Again, at Cherrystone you thought I left the office without hearing. I supposed I had received two messages from that place and wrote an answer; being completely worn-out I retired, directing any other messages to be kept till I could get some rest. I afterward learned, to my regret, that both of those which had been deciphered were written before yon came to Cherrystone. I deeply regretted the mistake, but it was too late to remedy it. I had slept but a few hours for the last three or four nights, and, like the operator who attempted to decipher your messages, I was only half awake at the time. My dear general, we must not let little things annoy us, but push right ahead to the great eiid in view. There is enough and more than enough for all of ns to do, although none of us can do exactly what we could wish. That Lee is moving on Pope with his main army I have no doubt. Unless we can unite most of your army with Buruside and Pope, Washington is iii great danger. Under these circumstances you must L)ardon the extreme anxiety (and perhaps a little impatience) which I feel. Every moment seems to me as important as an ordinary hour. Yours, in haste, H. W. HALLECK. Ab8tract from Return of the Army of the Potomac, AJaj. Gcn. George B. McClellan com- manding, for Augu8t 20, 1862. Present for duty. ~ a ~ Command. Q-~ ~ Remarks. a ~e ~ ~L 0 no a w a bC rca a cc cc cc a Headquarters Engineers, ar 400 7, 269 8, 221 10, 798 12, 475 tillery, cavalry, provost guards. & c. Second corps . 789 16, 069 17, 747 24, 652 21, 847 42 Third Corps 25, 973 A ssigned to Major- General Pope. Fourth Corps 699 13, 728 .14, 760 24,752 25, 205 37 Fifth Corps 30, 313 As4gned to Major- General Pope. Sixth Corps 22, 207 . Assigned to Major- General Pope. Seventh Corps... 455 9, 205 10, 963 11, 776 11, 738 30 Total 2,343 46,271 51,691 71,978 149,758 109 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Fort Monroe Maj. Gen. E. B. KEYES, August 22, 18623 p. m. Yorktown, Va.: As a temporary measure, l)lease place one of your field batteries in the work at Gloucester Point. Please push the work laid out by the engineer officers with the utmost rapidity. I hope to have new troops to relieve your men by the time transports are ready for your corps. Please detail some of your arti Page 381 CRAP. XXIIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 381 lery officers and non-commissioned officers to instruct the garrison you found under General Van Alen in the use of heavy guns, and have them prepare tables of ranges, & c., for them. I trust to your zeal and ac- tivity in this very trying moment. They are fighting now on the Bappahannock. A general engagement is probably going on now. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, August 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. E. D. KEYES, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: The duty intrusted to your corps, while it is no doubt disagreeable, is of the utmost importance. I fully realize how severe a tax it is upon men who have fought so gallantly and worked so hard as your corps to require them now to go upon fatigue duty. I feel sure, however, that if they knew that the work I now call upon them to perform is necessary they will perform it cheerfully. You will please detail as large working parties as the tools available will permit to perform the work laid out by the engineer officers. It is a matter of vital importance that the details should be furnished and the work done in the shortest possible time. I have taken all the necessary steps to have your command relieved by new troops at the earliest practicable moment. It is imperatively necessary that the work required should be pushed with the utmost vigor. You will be held responsible that this work is pushed with all the rapidity possible with the means at your command, and hold your command in readiness to move at the shortest notice. If you judge it necessary, send two regiments or an entire brigade of infantry to Williamsburg to cover your operations. Please push as far as possible the instruction of the old garrison in heavy artillery practice, and give me in full your views as to the best method of holding Williamsburg and the force necessary for that pur- pose. Send a couple of squadrons of cavalry to Gloucester to patrol and examine the country on the left bank of the York. If you think it advisable, send a much larger force of cavalry there for temporary duty. While we have a large cavalry force comparatively idle, it may be well to occupy a large portion of it in clearing out the country on that side of the York River. If you think it best to occupy a point near Williamsburg by infantry, hold Fort Magruder and destroy the adjacent works. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Steamer City of Hudson, off Fort Monroe, August 23, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Commanding Seventh Corps, Fort Monroe: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to inform you that the following movements have been ordered to take place immediately Page 382 382 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CIIAI. XXiLi. Pecks division, except Emorys brigade and one battery, to repair to Fort Monroe and report to you for duty. The two companies of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, fbrinerly with Smiths division, to rejoin their regiment at Williamsburg, and the regi- ment to be under {he orders of the commander of the forces at York- town. Five companies of the Eleventh Peniisyivania Cavalry, 110W ~it Will- iamsburg, to repair to Suffolk and report to Brigadier-General Mans- field. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,5 WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant. General. FORT MONROE, Aug~~~t 23, 186212.20 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just received your order to send home the three months~ regi- ments, of which I have three, and put them en route two or three days before the expiration of their term~ This is not possible now, as the term of one expires the (lay after to-morrow. The two others are at Suffolk. Their time expires next week. General McClellan has placed other regiments at my disposal this morning to relieve them, but they are at Yorktown, and as tile trans- portatiou is all engrossed in moving his army, there will be a delay of a few days. The officers and men of these regiments are in debt at Suffolk and are anxious to pay, 1)ut they have no money. If they leave without I)aying it xviii be discreditable to them and the Government. They have received nothing. Cannot a paymaster be ordered here immedi- ately to pay them before they leave? JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. - HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Yorktown, Va., August 25, 1862. To HIs EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Having given my opinion in favor of removing tile army from Harri- sons Landing when Your Excellency was at that place and afterward by letter, I did not learn that my views were in opposition to those of Major-General McClellan and of most, if not all, the corps commanders until quite recently. From that place something like 20 per centumn of our force were carried away sick in boats. Many who came by land were weak, amid 1 ant convinced, after many observations and inquiries, that if the army had remained through the sickly season, which w~s but just setting imi when we left, by the middle of September not more than 10,000 well men would have remaimmed in the Armny of the Potomac. Our draught animals were suffering from heat, flies, and stamping almost as much as the men. It was ther& ore absolutely nec- essary to leave Harrisons Landing. I only regret the loss of a month. I strongly advocated a movement which should bring the whole of th Page 383 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 383 Army of the Potomac to act in conjunction with the Army of Virginia and between our capital and the enemy. I thought, and still think, such to be our true policy; and to leave a corps darm~e on this Peninsula at this time, while we have command of the York and James Rivers, is like casting upou the sand the water in- tended for men dying of thirst. A brigade of fresh troops and one regi- ment of artillery ought to be here at Yorktown. But I cannot fail to be aware that while I am absent, and while those with whom I have beeii serving and from whom I differed in opinion in important matters are in personal intercourse with the sources of power, my rel)tltatiolL may suffer. Often have I been made to feel the evil effects of my zeal in this war, and of having so often foreseen what would happen and what has happened. I urged great exertions eighteen months ago, because I knew the rebels intended to fight hard or to be let alone. As my corps (the Fourth) has been left behind on this Pen- insula, and as two brigades have been detached and ordered to report to General Dix, the main object of this note is to ask Your Excellency to maintain inc in a command corresponding with my rank. 1 ask also that you should judge me, if it be necessary to jndge me at all, on the testimony of men who are not opposed to me, and who are not embittered, as many in this army are, by want of success, and anxious to throw the blame of failuie upon others. Generals Meigs, Barnard, Stoneman, (Jochrane, Capt. C. C. Snydain (my adjutant-general and one of the best heads in this army), and others can speak of me as I am and tell what I have done. I have done more probably than has been told. My views of the policy of this war are in hearty, spontaneous accord- alice with that adopted by Your Excellency, and I trust that you will not restrain inc to a narrow command, but will allow me to fill up the Fourth Corps with recruits and to march with it against the enemy. No l)er5on~Ll consideration weighs with me, and I obey implicitly any man who is l)laced over me as my chief. I am disposed to complain of nothing but a want of opportunity. If Major-General Dix is to leave Fort Monroe I would like his command; but my habits, I think, would enable me to be of more service in the field. Begging pardon for this liberty, I remain, Yonr Excellencys most humble servant, E. D. KEYES, Major- General, Commanding Fourth Corps. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 245. Alexandria, August 27, 1862. I. At his own request Brig. Gen. William F. Barry is relieved from ~ duty as chief of artillery of the Army of the Potomac, and will proceed to Washington, and report to the Adjutant-General of the Army for or(lers. In issuing this order the general commanding avails himself of the occasion to express his thanks for the zeal and ability General Barry has at all times displayed in the discharge of his duties, and especially for his valuable services in connection with the organization of the artillery of this army. * * * * ,* * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, A8sistant Adjutant- Genera Page 384 384 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [ChAr. XXIIL NAVY DEPART~ENT, August 29, 18621.10 p. m. Rear-Admiral L. M. GOLDSBOROUGH, Commanding North Atlantic Blockade Squadron, Norfolk, Va.: Commodore Wilkes is ordered to Washington with the Wachusett, Maratanza, Sonoma, Tioga, Aroostook, and six mortar boats. The other six mortar boats go to Baltimore. He is directed to turn over the re- mainder of the flotilla to you, and ~OU will mako such disposition of the vessels as your best judgment dictates, closing the coast south of the Rappahaunock. Acknowledge receipt. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. HEADQUARTERS, Riehmond, Va., Mareh 18, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Gommanding, cte., Norfolk, Va.: GENERAL: It has been represented to me that the work at Hardens Bluff, Fort Huger, is not in good defensive condition. The items of fault are reported to be as follows: 1. Want of proper traverses. 2. Want of bomb proofs. 3. Existence of wooden buildings inside the work. 4. The six 32-pounders for hot shot are not on barbette carriages and there are no guns mounted for land defense. 5. The woods are left standing close to the work on the outside. 6. The men have not been drilled at their guns for some time past. 7. A want of harmony and zealous co-operation among some of the officers, resulting from questions of rank (it is said Captain de Lagnel, who was sent to command the battery of heavy guns, is junior to the captain of one of the companies serving at the battery, and that this is one cause of tronble; and that Colonel Archer and Captain de Laguel do not accord entirely. Captain Rives, in charge of the engineer office here, reports in regard to the items of complaint as follows: 1. Traverses are in progress of construction. 2. Bomb proofs are being made as rapidly as possible. 3. 4. The six 32-pounders have not been mounted en barbette because he has not been able to procure the carriages, and for the same reason no guns have been placed for the land defense. He thinks, however, that he can procure at least two barbette carriages on which to mount a like number of guns looking to the land, and will send them to Fort Huger at once, with as many more as can be obtained and will do the same in regard to the other carriages and guns so soon as they cau be procured. 5. The engineer in charge of Fort Huger has long since been in- structed to have the woods felled. A want of axes may have prevente Page 385 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 385 the execution of the order. He will, however to be directed have this work done at once to the extent of his means. 1 have stated both sides of the question as presented to me. You will know what importance to attach to the several complaints. I think the wooden buildings in the fort, if that cause of complaint be real, should be removed as soon as practicable. If they are nsed as quar- ters, cannot tents be substituted for them? If for store-houses, some portions of the bomb proofs might be arranged to supply their places, which latter I am told is being done. The clearing of the woods near the battery is of course necessary, aud I am surprised that the commanding officer of the fort has not had this done by the troops. If the engineer force has more irpportant work to do, axes sufficient could probably be procured from the neigh- .bors, if they cannot be supplied in any other way. The drill has probably been interrupted by the change in the guns, but should be resumed. The last item of complaint, Want of harmony among the officers, is the most important. The senior officer present should command all, but the immediate command of the guns and the men serving them should be with Captain de Lagnel, a.s he was assigned to his present position because of his supposed capabilities as an artillery officer. This is not a time to squabble about rank; e~ery one must work, and do what he can to promote the cause. To save time I have assumed the statements made to me to be true, which is most likely not the case; and my suggestions on this supposition are intended mainly as explanatory. You can best determiue whether the faults referred to are so and provide the remedy, and you are desired to give the subject your ear- liest attention. Jam, & c., It. E. LEE General, Commanding. RICHMOND, VA., ]Jfareh 18, 1862. General J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding Army of Penin8ula, Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: Notwithstanding the demonstrations of the enemy in your front, I see nothii~g to prove that he intends immediately to attempt your line. He is feeling your strength and desires to prevent your occupy- ing other points. If strong enough, his feint may be couv~rted into a real attack. I hope you will so maneuver as to deceive and thwart him. The roads are hardly firm enough-yet to invite his advance by land, and I discover nothing at present indicating co-operation with his col- umn from Newport News. You can therefore only prevent his accumu- lating information and reserve your men. Should the Monitor appear before your batteries, it has occurred to me that by reserving your fire until she arrives- near and discharging by word of command or simul- taneously your heavy guns at her tnrret at the time when her gun was protruded for delivering fire, if the gun was struck it would be disabled, or if the turret was hit by a number of shot it would be deranged or capsized from its center. Wrought.iron shot are being forged with a view to penetrate her 25 U UVOL XI, PT II Page 386 386 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CuM~. xxm. armor. Some will be sent you. I do not think she will enter York River and leave the Virginia in her rear. Directions have been given in reference to the completion of the bat- tery at Hardens Bluff; and General Hugers attention called to all the points referred to in Colonel Cabells letter. It would be better in some respects if the battery formed pa:t of your command, but its support- ing force, & c., must be drawn from the command of General Huger. I can learn nothing of the two Mississippi companies promised, men- tioned in your postscript to telegram of 17th. Very respectfully, & c., R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, . ( ASST. ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, Yorktown, Va., March 19, 1862. The following proclamation is published for the information of this army, and of all others concerned: PROCLAMATION. The President of the Confederate States having declared martial law in and over the counties of Elizabeth City, James City, York, Warwick, Gloucester, and Matthews, and the suspension of all civil jurisdiction therein, with certain enumerated exceptions, and Major-General Ma- gruder, commanding the Army of the Peninsula, being charged with the due execution of said proclamation of martial law: Now, therefore, all residents and sojourners within the counties afore- said are hereby warned and notified of the said declaration of martial law, and will govern themselves accordingly. The following regula- tions of military discipline and police are established: The distillation and sale, or either, of spirituous liquors of any kind is positively prohibited and will be promptly punished, and all estab- lishments for the making or sale of the same are hereby suppressed. All persons infringing or violating this prohibition will suffer such punishment as may be ordered by the sentence of court-martial or otherwise ordained by the military code. Provost-marshals will be appointed at every post and camp in this department, who will be charged with the rigid enforcement of this order, and will institute strict search in order to the prompt detection, arrest, and puiiishment of all offenders. J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NEAR BETHEL, March 20, 1862. General LEE, C. S. A., Commanding Army, & c.: GENERAL: I am low down on the Warwick road (Langhornes Mill) and at Bethel, with the greater portion of my command. The weather, which was fine when the troops marched, is now bad, and the roads, which were almost impr~ietieable in my rear and were getting good, are no Page 387 Cnir. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 387 beconiing again very bad since the rain of last night. I came down in the conviction that the right flank of my operating forces on James River was secured by the success of the Virginia and would not care fdr the roads so much, bat from all I learn and see here I am the more convinced than ever that the enemy will persevere in his designs up James River, and for the following reasons: It will be greatly to their interest to keep such a ship as the Virginia confined to the Hampton Roads. This can be done if the Monitor, which, as I have learned since moving the troops, draws but 5 feet water, can be sent up James River, supported by an irresistible column, marching up the Peninsula, say 20,000 men, whilst 20,000 would remain to occupy the vicinity of Fort Monroe and Newport News. Should the Virginia go outside of Fort Monroe and Newport News, the enemy would steam across the lower James River with his 20,000 and cut Norfolk off whilst the other 20,000, supported by the Monitor, would eventually succeed in pushing their way up to Jamestown. Should the Virginia remain in the Roads, no troops could be thrown across as far up as she could go, which is but a few miles, but the col- umn below would support the land operations of the column above, and the whole would cross above, say at Jamestown Island or at Mul- berry Point. The enemy is re-enforcing by every means in his power therefor his forces at Newport News and Fort Monroe. Two regi- ments are reporte~l to have arrived yesterday, and the vedettes on the advanced water points report that some thirteen sailing transports were towed up the bay by steamers (tugs probably) yesterday, whilst I saw myself several sailing~ vessels in tow of steamers going up the day before. I think, therefore, that he is straining every nerve to put a large force on the Peninsula before the Virginia comes out, either to operate on James River, York River, or both, whilst his troops march up. It seems to me, therefore, that the Virginia, if she cannot get at the Monitora conflict which it will be the interest of the country to preventought so to station herself outside Fort Monroe as to inter- cept all re-enforcements oC troops and to cut off further supplies. This course, if it can be pursued at once, might prevent the advance up by land, and would also l)revent the crossing of troops in large numbers on the lower James Rivcr, as fir up at least as the Virginia could go, since, if she could pass Fort Monroe once, she could return again to the Roads, if an attempt wei~e made to cross troops in large numbers. By taking such a position the Virginia would also prevent an expedi- tion of magnitude either up York or Rappahaunock Rivers. I think no time should be lost in sinking insurmountable obstacles in James River to prevent the Monitor from ascending. Nothing but positive physical obstructions will do against such ships. But the river would be worse than useless to this army if the obstructions were made high up, since there could be no meamis of transportation below such obstructions, the Monitor destroying such means. It is necessary therefore to block up the river at some strategic point, affording to this army the means of safely ascending James River from that point. Jamestown Island alone fulfills these conditions, as far as I know. Would it not be well, therefore, to sink vessels of all kinds, loaded with stone, at once, for this purpose, across the channel there, and fortify the island and the commanding main-land strongly, without delay? The last I am doing with all the means in my power; but for the formor the means must come from Richmond. I presume that all the sail ves- sels, some of the older steamers, and all the canal-boats above Rich Page 388 388 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA [CHAr. XXIIL mond would do it effectually. If done at all it should be done without the least delay, and by an engineer, civil or military, of great energy and understanding. I could hold Williamsburg then and Jamestowu Island at least as long as Yorktown could hold out, which I hope would be a long time. I think McClellan has shown his plan is to turn flanks by great detours by land and water. The falling back of our army froni the Potomac gives him the power to detach largely, and I think he will never risk a defeat himself when he can devolve the risk of it upon some one of his subordinates. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER Major- General, Comman~iling. P. 5.Since writing the above I have received the following report from Colonel Crump, the correctness of which I have no reason to doubt: HEADQUARTERS, GLOUCESTER POINT, March 20, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER: GENERAL: The lieutenant commanding the picket in Matthews makes the follow- ing report: That a fleet passed in the direction of Fort Monroe yesterday, composed as follows: Twenty-eight steamers, four floating batteries, twenty-six sails of differ- ent kinds, loadeti with hay and a large number of horses. I should be glad to hear the result of the firing heard in th~ Peninsula yesterday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. A. CRUMP, Colonel, Commanding Post. I have also the honor to report that my lowest pickets say that the enemy were re-enforced at both Newport News and Old Point last night and the night before (during the night). They judge from the whistling of steamers and the ~ound of (Irums. I am, sir, & c., J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. NORFOLK, March 20, 1802. Major-General MAGRUDER: Nineteen steamers loaded with troops and nine schooners came down the bay at 8 oclock yesterday evening to Old Point. Two gunboats went to sea. I have had no report from the post this morning, the weather being too misty to see the shipping at Old Point. JAS. F. MILLIGAN, Signal Officer. ENGINEER BUREAU, Richmond, March 20, 1862. Lient. HENRY T. DOUGLAS, P .A.C.S., In Charge of Defenses, Yorktown: SIR: The almost impossibility of procuring axes has prevented me so far from honoring your requisition for 200.* * * * * * *. * I still think the water battery should be abandoned at Yorktown, ~Some mattei5s of detail omitted Page 389 CRAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 389 for the reasons specified in a former letter, and because of the invul. nerability of iron-clad vessels of proper build. When you expressed your confidence in the ability of a 64-pounder to contend with an iron-clad vessel you were not aware that 180-pounder solid shot had been used at 20 yards range for four hours without ap- preciable effect; at least such is the information I received here. I would t~ke occasion here to condemn, as a general system, small detached redoubts, although you might infer from what you see near Williamsburg that I am in favor of them. I was, when they were corn- menced, completely uexperienced, and acted under instructions. I now know and have known for some months past that the system is most defective, making a line equally strong it is true, but equally weak at the same time. When one small redoubt is carried, which can easily be done, the troops cease to have confidence in the whole line, and the defense, in consequence, is most defective. My views I believe you know with regard to mobilizing the army, ~nd having but few works, and those of a strong character and thoroughly flanked. There are certain inferior works of great utility, however, but they should generally be masked in the edge of woods and open in the rear; rifle pits, for instance, or positions for light artillery with a simple embankment in front. As you are doubtless excessively busy at present, and I know do not exactly agree with me on the subject of the intrenched camp, I propose to place that work under Captain Clarke, as ~ve1l as the defenses of the Warwick River below Lees Mill. From Mulberry Island, his present location, he can easily direct these works. I shall write at once to General Magruder on the subject, but before doing so thought it wonld be agreeable to you to learn of the proposed arrangement through the bureau. Very respectfully and truly, yours, ALFRED L. RIYES, Acting Chief; Engineer Bureau. NORFOLK, VA., March 21, 1862. Major-General MAGRUDER: The nineteen steamers and six schooners which arrived at Hampton Roads day before yesterday with troops went to. sea this morning from Old Point about 11 oclock a. m. JAS. F. MILLIGAN, Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TIlE PENINSULA, Half-way House, near Bethel, March 21, 1862. General R. E. LEE, Commanding C. S. Army, Richmond: GENERAL: In consequence of the equinoctial storm, the exposure of the men hi an advanced position without tents, the increasing impracti- cability of the roads between the line of Youngs Mill and Harwoods Mill and that of Warwick River, and the very large re-enforcements of the enemy, as indicated by my previous reports, I ordered all the troops omi the line of Laughornes Mill and Bethel to resume their position on the line of Warwick River, except the Tenth Georgia Regiment amid 300 cavalry left at Youngs Mill, and Goggins battalion and 200 cavalr Page 390 390 THE P~N1NStYLA1~ CAMPAIGN, VA. [OnAr. XXItI. left at Bethel, and Winstons regiment left at ilarwoods Mill. The line of Warwick is being fortified rapidly by a large number of negroes. The Virginia is expected out in a day or two. Her first object, it seems to me, ought to be certainly to prevent the passage of the enemys transports and gunboats up James River, except the Ericsson (Monitor), which it is not expected she can prevent, as she draws very little water and can elude the Virginia. I think the enemy may fear for Fort Monroe, but having such an irn- mence force will endeavor to march up the Peninsula, and by aktof the Ericsson will endeavor to obtain Jamestown Jslan~ if he is continued to be opposed by a force so small as mine. I presume McClellan cannot advance in consequence of the state of the roads and for other reasons. If it were possible, therefore, to throw 30,000 here from the army of the Manassas line 20 0 in all with mine, with our knowledge of the 00, making 30,000 country, we could crush the enemy, and perhaps with the assistance of the Virginia take Fort Monroe; and if Korfork should fall into the hands of the enemy in the mean time, with the guns in our batteries spiked, which I do not think at all probable, we could retake it with the aid of the Virginia perhaps, and vanquish or at least expel Burnside. Not knowing what has taken place elsewhere I do not know if this can be done, that is, whether troops can be withdrawn from other points, but I presume that it could be, a~t least for a short time, and I have little doubt that I could be able to throw troops across Back River down op- posite Hampton, and thus cut off the enemy now around Newport News from that place; but 30,000 men is the least that this ought to be at- tempted with, leaving oat the necessary garrisons, some 4,00O men. Such large re-enforcements having already arrived of horses and men at Old Point and Newport News, as well as supplies of hay and pro- visions, the Virginia ought to first prevent the passage of a fleet of transports and gunboats up James River before she takes her place on the outside of Fort Monroe, as I recommended yesterday, and the sooner she is at her post at Sewells Point the better, as the enemy may be ready now to send their vessels up James River, where she cannot fol- low them. The present Secretary of War is so well acquainted with the locali- ties here that I desire to have this letter laid before him. I wrote the other day with respect to cavalry re-enforcements, the enemy having so large a preponderance iii that arm. One of these com- panies is ready at Fredericksburg, being sent there to recruit. There are said to be some about Richmond, an d Lieutenant-Colonel Goode wrote me of one large company already formed in a county the name of which I have already sent you (Buckiugham County probably). My letter will explain itself. I beg leave to recommend the arming of cavalry with lances and shot- guns, if to be had. The former can be made by any carpenter and or- dinary blacksmith in any neighborhood and rapidly and in any number, and in my opinion more efficient than the saber. Without the shot- guns they would be as powerful in a charge as with them. They could be held in reserve until wanted. If heavy re-enforcements are to be sent here I would like to know at once, that I may throw up fortifications at points which, if we should not want them ourselves, it is extremely important that the enemy should not hold, such as from Langhornes Mill to Bethel, and from Youngs to ilarwoods Mill, which are almost impregnable if held by a sufficient number of troops, but entirely untenable unless so manned Page 391 ChAP. XNIII.1 CO1UU~SPONDENCE, ETC.CO~FEDERATE. 391 The disposition of the artillery, the occupation of posts, and indeed my whole course depends entirely upon the number of troops which I may expect. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 21, 1& 32. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, & c., Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: I am directed by General Lee to say that, in conformity with your request of the 14th instant, application was made to GeL- eral Johnston to know if the Lunenburg Cavalry or any other com- l)anies of that arm could be spared for the purpose of re-enforcing you, an~1 that he replied that it was utterly impossible, the proportion of cavalry in his department being already much too small to supply the wants of the service. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. II. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQVARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 22, 1862. General J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, & c., Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: I have received your letter of the 20th instant, and having to start to North Carolina to-morrow morning have but little time to reply. The fleet in the Roads which you refer to has gone to sea, as I am informed, for the purpose probably of re-enforcing Burusides or one of the other expeditions against the southern coast. This will relieve you of immediate apprehension from this source. With regard to obstructing the river, of course the lower down the better. This is now being done at Drewrys Bluff, some 7 or 8 miles be- low this city. It has no relation to your operations, however, but was commenced to meet the emergency occasioned by the appearance of the Monitor in Hampton Roads. An arrangement has been made to allow our vessels to pass the obstructioI~s. Upon inquiry I am told that a sufficient number of hulks cannot be obtained to obstruct the river at any point without too seriously interfering with the supplies of your army and of this city. A system of piling has been arranged by Captain Rives which prom- ises to answer at least as good a purpose, and I will cause his immediate attention to be called to the question of obstructions at Jamestown Isl- and or at such other point as in your opinion may be considered best. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General Page 392 3~2 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. tOnAr. NXIIII. FREDERICKSBURG, VA., General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON March 22, 1862. Commanding Department ~f Northern Virginia: Sin: I. You will relieve Major-Geiieral Holmes of his command, and direct him to report at Richmond for further orders. IL. You will detach two brigades of infantry and two companies of artillery, with orders to report to Major-General Holmes with the least delay at his headquarters in the field. III. The troops when passing through Richmond will be reported to the Adjutant-General for any instructions which it may be needful to give them at that point. Very respectfully, yours, JEFFERSON DAVIS. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, No. 83. Rapidan, March 23, 1862. Under the orders of the President I. Maj. Gen. T. II. Holmes, commanding Aqnia District, is relieved from the command of that district, and is assigned to duty temporarily with General Lee, and will report to the Adjutant and Inspector Gen- eral, Richmond, Va., for further orders. II. Maj. Gen. G. W. Smith is assigned to the command of the Aquia District, and will take such of his staff with him as he may deem neces- sary. III. Brig. Gen. J. G. Walker, with his brigade and the company of artillery attached, is assigned to duty nuder Major-General Holmes, and will l)roceed to Richmond, Va., -without delay and report to the Adjutant and Inspector General for further orders. IV. Brig. Gen. C. M. Wilcox, with his brigade and company of artil- lery attached, with the exception of the Virginia regiment (Thirty- eighth Virginia), is assigned to duty with Major-General Holmes, and will report without delay to Adjutant and Inspector General, Rich- 111011(1 Va for ., further orders. By command of General Johnston: A. P. MASON, Assistant Idjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTHE:~N VIRGINIA, No. 84. Rapidan, March 23, 1862. * * * * * * * II. Brig. Gen. J. B. Kershaw will immediately assume command of the brigade formerly commanded by Brigadier-General Bonham. * * * * * * * By command of General Johnston: A. P. MASON, Assistant Adjutant- Generwi. YORKTOWN, March 24, 1862. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War The enemy are in very great force at Fort Monroe, Newport News Page 393 CHAP. XXIII.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCCONFEDERATE. 393 and between those places; not less, I think, than 35,000 men. Should he advance now he would carry all the strong points, and re-enforcements would be too late. Ten thousand detached from the Army of the Poto- mac now would defeat him20,000 later may not do itas McClellan cannot move his army in the present state of the roa4s from before Washington; as I am informed he transfers it to where he can advance. Should these 10;000 be required afterward by the Army of the Potomac they conid be sent back. Now they should be here. J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, March 24, 1862. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War, Richmond: SIR: The late Secretary of War, the flon. J. P. Benjamin, stated in a letter some ten or twelve days since that he would send me an un- armed regiment of 1,000 men, which I could arm here, and I have been expecting them every day, but they have not arrived. I have to report that I have not troops to man the works on the shortest line, that of Warwick River, and I hope this regiment, which of course is not drilled, may be sent to me without further delay. I cannot bring into the field more than 6,000 men to meet some 30,000, leaving insufficient garrisons in the works, and have not more than 10,000 in all for duty in the Peninsula and at Gloucester Point. We shall make a glorious fight doubtless, but it will avail ns nothing if the enemy carry our works. The Virginia has not made her appearance, and the enemy may take advantage of her absence, as the Monitor draws, it is reported, only 5 feet, whilst she draws 22~ feet. The Virginia can therefore be easily eluded by the Monitor, and the latter pass up James River. I would like to be informed when the Virginia will again come ont. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, March 24, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding Army, & c., Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: I am directed by General Lee to say in reply to that por- tion of your telegram of yesterday which relates to the non-arrival of the re-enforcements promised you, that though the order for the move- ment of Col. Thomas R. R. Cobbs Legion to the Peninsula was sent to Norfolk prior to that directing that General Howell Cobbs brigade be forwarded to Goldsborough, N. C., the latter first reached General Huger, and the Legion moved to Carolina with General ~ com- mand. He. instructs me to say, however, that orders have been issued for the Fourteenth Alabama Regiment, Colonel Judge, to proceed to join you in lieu of the Cobb Legion. The Twenty-sixth Alabama, Colone Page 394 394 THE PENINStJLA~ CAMPAIGN, VA. [CITAP. XXItt. Smith, has been previously ordered to you, both being flow in. this city. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, VA., March 24,1862. Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, (ommanding: SIR: I telegraphed this morning to inform you that some twenty steamers, loaded with troops, came down the bay last evening. They brought large re-enforcements, and immediately commenced to disem- bark the troops. Guarding the extent of country, front and rear, that I do, and divided as it is by rivers, I feel weak at all points, and cannot concentrate troops rapidly. I omitted to mention that two light batteries accompanied the troops sent from Suffolk to Goldsborongh, Captain McIntoshs battery (his was the eleventh company of the First South Carolina Regiment, Colonel Hamiltons) and a battery attached to General Howell Cobbs brigade. The field guns on the Roanoke were not reported to me, and I gave no orders about them. Brig. Gen. Carter L. Stevenson has been ordered to Suffolk in com- mand of Fourth Brigade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General. Capt. HENRY BRYAN, HARwOODS, March 24. 1862. Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I inclose the above [following]. There is no doubt the enemy are here in force, and, though it may not be reasonable that they will tell their designs, yet they have not come for nothing. I shall hold everything ready to move on orders. Very respectfully, yours, JOHN A. WINSTON, C~olonel, Commanding. [Inclosnre.J COTTAGE HOME, March 24, 1862. SIR: The re-enforcements of the enemy that arrived at Old Point yesterday, and encamped in Sinclairs field and Dr. Hams field, extend as far as the eye can observe toward Hampton. The force is immense entirely out of my power to estimate. A lieutenant and 3 men have just left my house. I was informed by the lieutenant they are from Manas- sas, and intend an early advance up the Peninsula; at least such was the inference impressed upon my mind from his conversation. He remarked that the evacuation of Manassas only shifted the battle to this point, and that the people would suffer thereby. In great haste and greater trouble I am, yours, truly. CHARLES COLLINS Page 395 CnAP. ~X1II.] CORRESPONDENgE, ETC.CONFEPERATE. [Indorsements.] Colonel WINSTON: SIR: I have the honor to inclose the above, being a true copy of Mr. Collins letter addressed to Major Phillips. The picket reported that twenty-four steamers came down the bay yesterday and proceeded to Old Point. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN W. PULLER, Captain, Commanding Post. Mr. Collins is perfectly reliable. B. F. HUDGINS, Captain. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, March 25, 1862. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War, Richmond: SIR: It is the unanimous opinion of twenty of the principal officers of my commandq assembled together this evening for a council of war, that in view of the known forces of the enemy the best positions which can be assumed by this army are untenable without heavy re-enforce- mentsat least 10,000 immediately, and 10,000 more as soon as they can possibly be sent. It is their further opinion that in falling back from the line of York- town and Mulberry Point we yield the best line for the defense of Richmond, and that i~ the Peninsula is lost Norfolk must Recessarily fall, and the Virginia (Merrimac) must be captured unless she can pass the guns of Old Point, and the chances of fitting up gunboats on York River are given up. We lose the fine fortifications on this line, and destroy the confidence of our army in the safety of Richmond. It is the opinion of the council that if the re-enforcements asked are promised by the Government to this army Yorktown should be held to the last, awaiting their arrival; but if re-enforcements are not to be sent, then Yorktown should be abandoned, with a view to save the gar- rison from certain capture after the enemy shall have penetrated our second line of defense (Warwick River line) and after the enemy shall have asi~ended the river with their iron-clad stean~ers and cut off com- munication by water. If the Government considers it a military necessity to hold Yorktown under these circumstances it will be defended to the last extremity. I have the honor to submit the above, and remain, sir, very respect- fully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. P. S.I give the result of the council of war in tIme language in which it was expressed and agreed to. [Indorsement.] MARCH 26, 1862. I concur fully in the opinion that the re-enforcements asked for are absolutely necessary for the successful defense of this Peninsula agains Page 396 896 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. an advance of the forces of the enemy, said now to be assembled at Newport News and vicinity and Old Point. L. McLAiWS, Brigadier- General, Gommanding Second Divtswn. YORKTOWN, March 25, 1862. Hon. GEORGE W RANDOLPH, Secretary of War: SIR: I beg leave urgently to request that you will order all the cav- alry which can possibly be spared jo this department. Cobbs Legion, which was promised to me, has beeu ordered to Goldsborough, aiid I am therefore most ina(lequately furnished with that arm of the service, and will be entirely overniastered by the enemy, who are said to have 4,600 well equipped. The accounts of the very large forces at Old Point are corroborated this morning. Should they advance by the York road and attack York- town and Ship Point at the same time I could offer little or no resist- ~anceexceptontheWarwickRiver line, as I have not troops for the left flank below Yorktown, though it is admirably fortified. Please do not delay in sending the re-enforcemeuts, if it be possible. If the attack should be on Yorktown, the Virginia should by all means be made to pass Old Point and disperse the attacking fleet. If this is determined on, please let me know. She will thus gain a great and substantial victory. Urge this upon the Navy Department and the President. I am, sir, ~-ery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. RICHMOND, VA., March 25, 1862. General J. B. MAGRUDER, Yorktown: We are making every possible exertion to re-enforce you. Two regi- ments of infantry and the cavalry of the Wise Legion have been or- dered to you, and we will endeavor to send other forces. G. W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 25, 1862. General B. HUGER, Commanding at Norfolk: GENERAL: It seems certain from the reports received that the enemy is assembling iu great force at Old Point Comfort. Whether he will move against Norfolk or Richmond nothing is yet disclosed. Should the former be his point of attack, re-enforceineuts from the Army of the Peninsula and from troops concentrating here will be dispatched to your support. You must therefore prepare to receive them and deter- mine the points to which they will be directed. Watch vigilantly the movements of the enemy and endeavor to discover his plans. On th Page 397 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 397 contrary, should Richmond be the object of his attack and his route be by the Peninsula, you must throw across James River at a point to reach his front as large a force as can be safely withdrawn from the defense of Norfolk. It is probable a feint will be made against one city, while the attack will be against the other, and great care and judgment must be exercised not to be deceived. You must therefore immediately look to all your defenses, organize the troops to hold them, mobilize the re- mainder to move at a moments warning, should they not be reqnired to oppose the enemy in the lines around Norfolk. You will have also to arrange means of transportation should it be necessary to cross yonr troops over James River. The infantry, it is suggested, might be sent by railroad to City Point and ferried over by steamers. Artillery could be crossed lower down, from Carters Wharf to Groves Wharf, unless the enemys gunboats prevent it; but as to the best points and means you must judge, and make such preparations under both contingencies as are necessary. Keep me advised of the preparations and movements of the enemy as far as you can discover, and also of your opinion as to the object he has in view. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 25, 1862. General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding Army in Northern Virginia: GENERAL: The President desires to know with what force you could march to re-enforce the Army of the Peninsula or Norfolk, which are now threatened by the enemy assembling in great numbers, according to the reports received, at Old Point Comfort. It seems probable that the troops concentrating there are drawn from the army of General McClellan. Whether it is intended to move against Norfolk or Rich- mond there is ~et nothing to determine. But from the accounts re- ceived nothing less than 20,000 or 30,000 men will be sufficient, with the troops already in position, successfully to oppose them. It will be necessary, therefore, for you to organiz~ a part of your troops to hold your present line, and to prepare the remainder to move to this city, to be thrown on the point attacked. The object of the President is to prepare you for a movement which now appears imperative, as no troops are available but those of your army to meet the enemy concentrating on the coast. As soon as something more definite can be learned you will be in- formed, and should you receive a dispatch saying Move at once, you will understand that you are to repair immediately to this city, where you will be informed to what point you are to direct your course. Such arrangements as you deem necessary for the transportation and subsistence of your troops on their march you are desired to make. Every facility that can be given here to the same end will be prepared. This is sent by a special messenger, to insure security and dispatch. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General, Commanding Page 398 398 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. GENERAL ORDERS HDQRS. ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, ASSISTANT ADJT. GENS OFFICE, No. 166. ) Yorktown, March 25, 1862. Williamsburg is hereby declared to be under martial law. It was pre- sumed to have been included in the proclamation extending martial law over James City County. By command of Major-General Magruder: J. B. EUSTIS, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General and Aide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, TTa., March 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: Your several telegrams of yesterday and previous dates were received. The information forwarded by you, derived from the sig. nal office at Norfolk, was transmitted by General Huger. It is unneces- sary for you to repeat in detail such dispatches; the substance will be sufficient, or your opinion of the facts related. It seems certain that a large force of the en~emy is accumulating at Old Point Comfort, no doubt with a purpose of attackiug either Nor- folk or Richmond, but which of these points he may select, or what line of approach he may choose, I have as yet heard nothing to enable me to decide. Until some conclusion can be drawn as to his point of at- tack it would be manifestly improper to accumulate at either the army to oppose him. Measures, however, have been taken to throw into the Peninsula the available troops from Norfolk in case the enemy move against your line, and it will be necessary for you to be prepared to re- enforce Norfolk in the event of the attack being upon that city. All the boats on James River are ordered to be prepared to ferry across the troops, and troops are being concentrated in this city to be moved to either point that may be threatened. It will no doubt be the policy of the enemy to disguise his intention by threatening one point while preparing to attack the other, and the utmost care and judgment should be exercised to ascertain his real design. You will use every me~ins in your power to obtain information on this point, and communicate every material fact tending in your opinion to throw light upon the subject, with your own inferences from such facts. Assuming that the enemy will advance up the Peninsula to Rich- mond, and supposing that their boats may be able to force a passage by the batteries on York and James Rivers, they will be in a position, should they land on the Pamunkey on one side and about the Chick- ahominy on the other, to intercept your retreat, and will have turned the line of your land defenses. You must take measures to guard against such a catastrophe, and be prepared in such event to throw your whole force behind the Chickahominy,where a stand must be made. For this purpose you will cause examinations to be made of suitable posi- tioiis on the lines of the Pamunkey and James Rivers above the water batteries, to be occupied by you in such force as to delay the landing and advance of the enemy while you are withdrawing the body of your army behind the Chickahominy. In selecting these positions you will ascertain the best wharves and landings on each river above your rive Page 399 Ca~.i. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 399 batteries, and take measures in the event of the enemys passing those batteries to destroy those wharves and impede the landing of the en- emy in every way, and to display such a force opposite the wharves and landings which the enemy may approach as to delay his advance while the body of your army is being withdrawn behind the proposed new line. Of course you will understand that these positions to cover the withdrawal of your army are only to be occupied by you in the event of the danger of the enemys passing the river batteries becoming so im- minent as in your judgment to render it necessary. In the mean time you will only select suitable places to be occu- pied by you in the happening of the contingency above mentioned, and make such preparations as may be necessary to accomplish the pur- poses above indicated. All the information received here leads me to believe that the troops of the enemy now being concentrated at Old Point are drawn from the army that has heretofore been threatening the lines lately occupied by the Army of the Potomac under General Johnston. I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, & c., Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: Your telegram of to-day to the honorable Secretary of War has been referred to me for a reply. I would remark, in commencement, that no secrecy, either as to your movements or views, can l)e maintained if you make them the subject of telegraphic dispatches. Experience shows that information trans- mitted by telegraph becomes known, and is even reported in the public journals. I would advise, therefore, that all matters important to be concealed should be made the subject of a letter. In the present in- stance I fear both your plans and condition will become public. My letter of this morning will explain to you the views taken as re- gards the position and designs of the enemy, and the measures contem- plated to meet the emergency should it be discovered that his intention is to advance by way of the Peninsula. As far as I am able to judge, your strongest line of defense is that between Yorktown and Mulberry Point, which I believe had been adopted by you, and I think can best be held as long as your flanks are not turned by the passage of the enemy up either river. If you abandon that line I know no better position you could assume on the Peninsula. I would advise that in assembling a council of war it should con- sist of only a few of the principal officers of your command. The dis- advantages of a large council will be apparent to you. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. P. 5.Your telegram relative to the detailed men at Glass Island has been received, but is not understood, no one here knowing anything of Glass Islaud Page 400 400 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAP. XXIII. ASSISTANT QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Richmond, Va., March 26, 1862. Captain TAYLOR, A ide-dc-Camp: The following is a statement of the means of transportation on James River: Steamer Northhampton; c~ipacity, 800 men and baggage. Steamer Shultz; capacity, 400 men and baggage. Steamer Junaluska, tug. Steamer David Currie, tug. Schooner North Wind; capacity, 300 men and baggage. Schooner Delaphine Hubert; capacity, 300 men and baggage. Schooner James Buchanan; capacity, 300 men and baggage. Schooner Rebecca; capacity, 300 men and baggage. Ark Dick Bownee; capacity, 500 men and baggage. Ark Baty; capacity, 400 men and baggage. Total 3,300. Also lighters and barges, which, carrying baggage, will increase the capacity of time vessels to carry troops 25 per cent. The private steamer West Point, capacity 800 men, is undergoing repairs, and cannot be chartered until, say, Thursday. All these vessels are directed to be held ready for immediate use. them. Kensey Johns, acting quar~rmaster, is specially in charge of Very respectfully, your obedient servant, LARKIN SMITH, Acting Quartermaster- General. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding Department, ctc., Norfolk, Va.: GENERAL: I am directed by General Lee to say, in relation to that portion of your letter of the 24th instant concerning the removal of the two light batteries with the troops sent from yonr command to North Carolina, that there are in camp near this city several artillery companies awaiting to be furnished with guns; that he has done all in his power to hasten their equipment, and that when ready, unless there is a more urgent demand for them elsewhere, one or more will be sent to replace those taken from you. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Rapidan, March 26, 1862. General R. E. LEE , C. S. Army GENERAL: Your letter of yesterday, communicating the Presidents instructions to me to hold the troops of this army in readiness to march and asking what force I can bring to the Peninsula or Norfolk, is just received. The force here, exduding arrivals of men returned from furloug Page 401 CHAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 401 mid recruits, arrived since the 22d instant, amounts to about 23,000; that near Fredericksburg, according to Major-General Holmes, to about 12,000. Major-General Jackson has been falling back for a few days before a greatly superior force. His strength on the 28th February was about 5,000. If summoned to Richmond, I shall leave on this frontier only such a force as is now employed on outpost duty, for the mere purpose of mask- ing the movement. That will enable me to take to Richmond at least 25,000 men, after the return of Brigadier-General Jones, just ordered with about 5,000 men to the Blue Ridge, to support General Jackson. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, J. E. JOHNSTON, General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, ilfarch 26, 1862. General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON: GENERAL: On Tuesday, 25th instant, I went toward Manassas, and derived information respecting the enemy from a Mr. Butler, whose brother lives near Manassas, and from a Mr. Davidson, who was ar- rested as a spy by the Yankees and treated very badly, his horses tail and mane being shaved. General French, with a brigade, is at Manassas. General Sumner was expected to cross Bull Run on Tuesday. Two of the regiments are from Pennsylvania; others from New York City. The cavalry is esti- mated at 2,000; the horses look very well. Soldiers are in good spirits, saying they do not expect another battle will be fought. They estimate their reserves along the railroad and at Alexandria at 200,000. The late retreat was owing to the difficulty of getting food. They are working very slowly at Bull Run Bridge, apparently for effect. No other repairs are going on. They expect Banks continually, and all the soldiers now at Manassas look to be removed to another point. Pickets extend a mile or so from Manassas. Scouting parties come to Broad Rumi. They are searching the honses for concealed Southern property. They say they will arrest all who gave money to the army or had sick soldiers at their houses last summer. Their health is, and, as they say, has been, good. They have a great deal of artillery with them. The negroes come in in shoals, and are immediately told to go to the rear. The above information is up to Monday, the 24th instant. A command, size unknown, marched up the railroad this morning with drums. They were 3 miles above Bristoe. Very respectfully, W. STODDERT. [Indorsement.] MARCH 27, 1862. Respectfully submitted for the information of the President. The writer is the brother of Major-General Ewell. His residence is about 8 miles from Manassas, in the direction of Warrenton. J. B. JOHNSTON. 26 R RYOL XI, PT H Page 402 402 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. ICLIAP. XXIII. HEADQUARTERS (DAMP MCINTOSH, March 26, 18624 p. in. General JOSELH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding: GENERAL: ~t a poiiit about 7 miles below this a large column of in- fantry was ~e~n on the march this way at 2 p. in. Captain Gaither says he counted ~ix regiments without seeing either end of the column; six regimental colors were counted. They were marching across the fields parallel 1o the railroad and in view of it. I immediately sent the First Yirgini~ Cavalry (Jones) down to obs~rve the enemy and report, and h~we m-~ since heard. It is probable they will camp near Weaversville 1~4At Most respectfully, your obedient servant, J. E. B. STUART, Brigadier- General. IIDQRS. FOURTH AND FIFTH BRIGS., DEPT. OF NORFOLK, Suffolk, Va., March 26, 1862. Col. S. S. ANDERSON, A. A. U., Department of Norfolk, Norfolk, Va.: COLONEL: I have examined the country surrounding Suffolk with a view to the defense of it and the railroads. The battery and barrier referred to in Brigadier-General iRandolphs memorandmn are nearly completed, and the gulls will be mouiited as soon as a company shall be designated for it. Captain Poor informs me there is one (Captain Oteys) in Richmond without a battery that General Randolph thought could be obtained. It should be manned as soon as possible. The material for the bridge over the Kansemond and its western branch, communication between the First, Second, and Fourth Bri- gades, is nearly ready, and that over the branch will be constructed in a few days. The approaches from the south are so easy, and the country so open, that with the troops now here the enemy, if in force, could not be held in check for any length of time. I respectfully ask that the command- ing general will urge upon the Department~ the vital importance of send- ing a considerable re-enforcement here at the earliest possible moment. All of the cavalry in this Fourth Brigadeabout 40 effbctive menare now used as vedettes and couriers between this place and Harveys Neck, on the Sound. The distances to the several landings on the Chowan below WyanokeColonel Armisteads camp and battery (I do not think the enemy would ascend the river that far)are so short that - It is of the utmost importance that intelligence of the first appearance of the advance of the enemy up the Sound should be comm unicated as rapidly as possible. To insure this and to scout the country thoroughly to provide against spies in the guise of fishniongers and traders (I find there are many now passing, but shall stop it at once) the cavalry force there is not sufficient. The Fifth, Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth North Carolina Militia (mere fragments), now on duty in the Fourth and Fifth Brigades, have not all been mustered into service. Will you designate some one to perform that duty? I shall leave to-morrow to inspect the troops and defenses on the Roanoke and those in the Fourth Brigade south of this place. - lam, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, C. L. STEVENSON, Brigadier. Genera 1, Commanding Page 403 ChAP. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 403 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ ADJT. AND INSP. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 69. * * Richmond, March 267 1862. * * * * * VII. The military department of Henrico, under the command of Brig. Gen. John II. Winder, is extended to include the city of Peters- burg and the adjoining and surrounding country to the distance of 10 miles. * * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE PENINSULA, No. 699. f * Yorktown, March 26, 1862. * * * * * XXI. The women and children in Yorktown are directed to leave the place without delay. Brigadier-General Rains will cause this order to be executed. * * * * * * * By order of Major-General Magruder: HENRY BRYAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. YORKTOWN, March 27, 1862. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War: SIR: The enemy is just reported, by Colonel Cuniming, at Youugs Mill, to be advancing iu great force on the Warwick road. He is ad- vancing with all his forces oii three roads, having been reported to be at Sykes Corner, as well as above Bethel. Please answer by telegraph. By holding the works in front of Williamsburg the re-enforcements might be in time. If he carry our line on the Warwick River we shall lose a part of our artillery. J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. YORKTOWN, March 27, 1862. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War: The following dispatch received to-day from Norfolk: NORFOLK, March 27, 1862. General MAGRUDER: The Yankees have received large re-enforcements at Fort Monroe and Newport News the last three days. ft would be hard to estimate how many. The town of Hampton and all the available beach to Fort Monroe is occ u~p jed by encampments; also Newport News and 1 mile below there; also two encampifients between Newport News and Hampton and the north shore. I think myself the re-enforcements cannot be far from 30,000, if not more. Great activity prevails. Vessels are arriving and departing continually, night and day. JAS. F. MILLIGAN, Signal Officer. J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General Page 404 404 THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN, VA. [CHAr. XXIIL SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, No. 89. Rajpidan, March 27, 1862. Brig. Gen. Charles W. Field, P. A. C. S., will report for duty to Maj. ~ien. G. W. Smith, commanding Aquia District. By command of General Johnston: A. P. MASON, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 27, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Oorndg. Department of the Peninsula, Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: Your letter of the 24th instant to the honorable Secretary of War has been referred to General Lee, who directs me to siiy that the Fourteenth Regiment Alabama Volunteers left this city this morn- ing for Yorktown to join your command, and that the unarmed regi- ment from the same State (Twenty-sixth) will leave here to-morrow, also to join you, and by you be armed. The general instructs me to add that he has been informed by the Secretary of the Navy that the Virginia is now about ready to come out, but the exact day when she will move is not known to him. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. II. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General. ENGINEER BUREAU, Richmond, March 27, 1862. Capt. JOHN J. CLARKE PA CS, Engineer in Charge lJfulberry Island Point: DEAR SIR: It seems almost needless to urge upon you the vigorous prosecution of the works at Mulberry Point, but I do so at the sugges- tion of General Lee, who thinks it a matter of paramount importance. I received to-day a telegram from General Magruder to the effect that he had directed you to place the 42 and 68 pounders in barbette in the work surrounding Craffords house. In this, from the lights before me, I should think the general probably right. The work on the point can then be prosecuted untrammeled by guns in position. I sent you to-day 1,000 sand bags, and you will receive with this letter the first installment of bolts for the casemate battery. I have been trying in vain, so far, to procure wrought-iron protection for the em- brasures, but think that I have succeeded to-day in makiug a plan and procuring flat-bar railroad iron from the Richmond and Danville Rail- road Company which will be perfectly satisfactory. A tracing will be sent to you to-morrow. I shall write a note this evening to Colonel Gorgas, requesting him to send you immediately a 6.4-inch rifle gun, 64-pounder columbiad pattern, with barbette carriage pintle-block, which is here on hand complete. One casemate carriage will be finished this week and five the next, if promises may be relied on. General Lee is particularly desirous that all your unmounted guns should be mounted immediately, and iu the l)resent state of affairs I do not think you can do better than to mount them all in the covering works around Craffords house. Of that, however, you will probably be the best ~u(lge Page 405 CHAV. XXIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 405 At Hardens Bluff General Lee is particularly desirous that two guns at least should be mounted for rear protection, and that the guns on the water front should be well traversed. He also suggests that a few large guns might be arranged on the bluff outside of and protected by the fort. Is it possible to do anything in that way? Separation and scattering, of the guns, if possible, he considers the best disposition. Very respectfully and truly, yours, ALFRED L. HIVES, Acting Chief Engineer Bureau. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., March 27, 1862. Col. L. B. NORTHROP, Commissary- General, & c.: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that 10,000 troops have been ordered and are expected to arrive in this city. A portion may be here to-night. It will be necessary to make provision at once for them. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. E. LEE, General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Rapidan, March 27, 1862. General H. E. LEE, Richmond: SIR: I received yesterday a letter from you dated March 25, in which you give me the Presidents orders to be prepared to move to Hich- mnond, on the way to the Peninsula or Norfolk, with all the force I can, after proper dispositions on this line. This afternoon I received by telegraph an order to send 10,000 men instead of the effective force named in your letter. I beg leave, with all deference, to suggest to the President the expe- diency of transferring to the point about to be attacked the whole available force of this department. In making such a movement I would leave only such a line of outposts as would serve to mask it. The division of the troops of this department made by the telegram of this afternoon leaves on this line a force too weak to oppose an invasion, and furnishes to the threatened point a re-emiforcement too small to command success. For the sake of expedition I have ordered about 7,500 men from this vicinity by railroad to move t