TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 19 (Part II) 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, 1887 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 TITlE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF TIlE OFFICIAL IRECOIRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARXIIE~. PREPARED, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF TILE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY The late Lieut. Col. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Third U. S. Artillery. PUBLISHED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF Lieut. Col. HENRY M. LAZEIJLE, Twenty-third U. S. Infantry. PURSUANT TO ACTS OF CONGRESS. SERIES IVOLUME XIXIN TWO PARTS. PART II. REPORTS Sept. 20-Nov. 14, 1862. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC... Sept. 3-Nov. 14,1862. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1887 Page 2 /4/ Ce:: Page 3 ChAPTER XXXI. OPERATIONS IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA, WEST VIR GINIA, MARYLAND, AND PENNSYLVANIA. September 3November 14, 1862. PAliT II. REPORTS September 20-NQvember 14.* CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.... September 3-November 14. SEPTEMBER 22, 1862..-Skirmish at Aslibys Gap, Va. Report of Gol. R. Butler Price, Second Pennsylvania Cavalry, command. ing Cavalry Brigade, Third Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Blenker, Va., September 25, 1862. LIEUTENANT-COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, in conformity with orders from headquarters of the Third Army Corps, I proceeded, on the 20th instant, at 4 p. in., with a portion (800 men) of the bri- gade under my command, and one section of the Third U. S. Artillery, commanded by Lieutenant Shnetz, to Ashbys Gap, for the purpose of capturing or destroying a large train of wagons, reported to be in that vicinity. After passing the village of Aldie, at Bull iRun Gap, we en- conntered the pickets of the enemy. Skirmishing was kept up from that point for a distance of 10 or 12 miles, when the advance guard, aided by two companies of the First Vermont, while closely following a party of about 60 men, came suddenly upon the main body (about 400) of the Sixth Virginia Cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Green. The order to charge was promptly obeyed. After a short but severe struggle, the enemy broke in great disorder, some taking to the woods but the principal part going through the gap. Their horses were fresh, and could not be overtaken. Having been instructed not to go through the gap, I halted, and, after a short rest, returned, arriving in camp on the 23d instant, at 5 p. in. The object of the expedition, I regret, was not accomplished, the train having been removed to the other side of the ridge on the day before. Three wagons only remained, one, empty and without horses, found and burned in Paris. The other two, containing a few articles of little value, werecaptured. Our loss was as follows : t (3) * For Summary of Principal Events, see Part I. t Nominal list, omitted, shows 1 officer (Capt. S. G. Perkins, First Vermont Cavalry) killed, and 2 officers (Lient. Col. A. W. Preston and Licut. C. A. Adams) and 6 en- listed men, First Vermont Cavalry, wounded Page 4 4 OPEI~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. ~VA., Ml)., ANI) PA. (CHAP. XX~t Enemys loss as follows: Four privates killed, and Lient. Col. John Shac Green ~nd 13 non-commissioned officers and privates wounded and taken prisoner. Lieutenant-Colonel Green was too severely wounded (three saber cuts in his head) to bring in~ and was paroled after receiving the opinion of Brigade-Surgeon Johnson. Many others were wounded slightly, but escaped. The officers and men engaged all behaved with great coolness and courage, receiving a volley at short range, but dashing in with the sabers, without the least faltering. The officers in front, Lieutenant-Colonel Preston, Captain Perkins, Captain Erliardt, Lieutenant Adams, Captain Flint, and Lieutenant Cummings, commanding skirmishers, deserve great praise for their conduct. On the return, 2 commissioned officers (sick in hospital) and 148 en- listed men, found at Middleburg and Aldie, most of whom were sick or wounded, were -paroled. A captain of the Twenty-second New York was found in a hospital at Middleburg, wounded. He was brought back and sent on to Washington. He had not been paroled. The two guides sent me by General Banks I found to be energetic and reliable men, having a thorough knowledge of the country and its inhabitants. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. BUTLER PRICE, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. Lient. Col. CHAUNCEY MCKEEVER, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Bidqrs. Third Army Corps. [Indor8ement.1 HDQRS. DEFENSES WASHINGTON SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Arlington, Va., September 27, 1862. A report of a gallant affair, respectfully forwarded. S. P. HEINTZELMAN. Major- General, Commanding. SEPTEMBER 25, 1862A-Reconnaissance from Shepherdstown, W. Va. Report of Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac. NEAR SHARPSBURG, Mn., September 26, 1862. A cavalry reconnaissance made yesterday in the direction of Martins- burg, from Sheph erdstown, found the enemy in force encamped 2 miles out from Shepherdstown. One lieutenant-colonel, Thirty-fifth Virginia Volunteers, was captured, and 1 lieutenant, Fifth Virginia Cavalry, also. I go to Harpers Ferry this morning to look into the condition of things there. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 5 5 CHAP. XXXI.] EXPEDITION TO BRISTOE STATION, ETC. SEPTEMBER 2528, 1862.ExpeditiOn from Centreville to Bristoe Station and Warrenton Junction, Va. Report of Col. N. C. McLean, Seventy-fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, Eleventh Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, Camp at Centreville, Va., September 29, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the result of my expedition to Warrenton Junction, as follows: Immediately upon the receipt of your order, on the afternoon of the 25th instant, I called in my pickets and marched, as ordered, with the whole of my brigade and such portion of the Sixth Ohio Cavalry as were present, nuder Colonel Lloyd, amounting, I believe, to about 120 men. I encamped the first night at Weirs hous& , 1 mile from Manassas Junction. The next morning, at daylight, I marched and halted at Bristoe Station for re-enforcements of cavalry, which, I understood, were to come to me. About 30 men of the Sixth Ohio Cavalry joined me about 11 oclock. I fonud that the cavalry of the enemy were hovering around me, and sent a small party of the Sixth Ohio Cavalry to ascer- tain their strength. Upon the approach of onr men they fled, and, in the pursuit, dropped some pistols, haversacks, & c., but escaped without further loss. I met with no further interruption until within 2~ miles of Catletts Station, when my advance guard of cavalry came upon a force of the enemy, consisting of both infantry and cavalry, posted in the woods, from which they fired upon our men, driving them back upon the main body. The cavalry reported a heavy force of infantry, and I im- mediately ordered two pieces of artillery to the front, and shelled the woods three or fonr times without receiving any reply. I then ceased firing, and ordered two companies of the Seventy-fifth Ohio forward into the woods, as skirmishers, supported by the balance of the regiment as a reserve. This force I followed with the Seventy-third and Fifty-fifth Ohio, in line of battle, leaving the artillery in position, supported by the Twenty-fifth and Sixth Ohio Cavalry. The enemy, however, had re- treated, and I then moved forward, cautiously and in such order as to be ready for any emergency, with my whole force. My advance guard meached Catletts Station in time to see the locomotive and cars, in the distance, going rapidly away, but did not get near enough to engage the enemy again. I ascertained that the force which opposed my march, besides the cavalry engaged, consisted of about 300 infantry, and that they filled some seven or eight box-cars and three or four gondola-cars in their retreat on the railroad. In their retreat they fired the railroad bridge over Cedar Run, but we arrived in time to extinguish the fire before much damage had been done. Very little labor will repair the bridge, and, even now, I believe it will be safe for the cars to pass. This bridge was saved by the personal efforts of my staff. I halted on the other side of the bridge for the night, going forward, however, my- self; with the cavalry, two regiments of infantry, and one section of artil- lery to XVarrenton Junction, which was 1 mile distant. Nothing more was found of the enemy, and the bridge beyond and about 1~ miles dis- tant from the junction was all in order, so that the cars had continued on at least as far as the Rappahannock, some 10 miles distant. I could not ascertain whether the bridge at that point had been finished or not; but am under the impression that, on the 26th instant, it was still in- complete, or otherwise there was no reason for the burning of the bridge over Cedar Run. There was no alarm during the night. At about 3 oclock next morning, about 40 of the First Maryland Cavalry reporte Page 6 6 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL to me, with orders. My headquarters were at the house of a Dr. Shu- mate, who informed me that he had a large amount of Government prop. erty in his possession, which had been left there by the commander of the Thirty-sixth Ohio 1~egiment about one month ago, they being unable to transport it in the retreat. I immediately made snch arrangements as enabled me to transport the whole of it, amounting to six four-horse wagon-loads, in bulk, and of the estimated value of $4,600, and perhaps more, at present prices. In obedience to your orders, I returned to Bris- toe Station with my whole command, and encamped there on the morn- ing of the 27th instant. At this point, you joined me with 600 cavalry, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Karg6, and, upon your de- parture, took with you the cavalry which had been under my command, leaving in its place that which was under command of Lieutenant.Colo: nel Karg6. On the morning of the 28th instant I received your orders to fall back at once to Centreville, which I immediately obeyed. At Manassas Station I left the brigade to march forward on the direct road, while I made a detour over the battle.ground of Bull iRun with a l)Ortion of the cavalry. I went over the whole~fie]d, but met with no enemy during the whole day. The property recovered has beena portion of itturned over to my brigade quartermaster, for which I have his ~ro~er receipts, which will be forwarded to the department, and the balance has been sent to General Sigels headquarters an Government officers. , d will be there received by the In conclusion, I would respectfully request that the railroad bridge near Bristoe Station be repaired immediately, so as to save the large amount of railroad I)roperty beyond that l)Oint, which will, no doubt, be remove(l by the enemy as soon as the bridge over the Rappahannock is completed. 1 beg leave to refer to the annexed schedule, marked A,* for a list of the property recovered near Cedar Run. I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servant, N. C. McLEAN, Colonel, Commanding Second Brigade, First Dtvtsson. Brig. Gen. J. STAHEL, Gommanding First Division, Eleventh Army Corps. SEPTEMBER 2627, 1862.Expedition from Point Pleasant to Buffalo, W. Va., and skirmish. Report of Col. John A. Turley, Ninety-first Ohio Infantry. IIDQRS. NINETY-FIRST REGT. Onio VOL. INFANTRY, Point Pleasant, Va., September 28, 1862. Sin: I have the honor to submit, for your consideration, the following report of the part taken by the Ninety-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in the expedition against Buffalo: My regiment left camp at Point Pleasant at 6 oclock p. m. on Friday, the 26th instant, and proceeded up the Kanawha River to within 1 mile of Eighteen-Mile Creek without any interruption, at which point we encountered the rebel vedettes of Jenkins cavalry, one of whom my advance captured, and from whom we learned the strength and situa- tion of the enemys forces in front, and, not yet hearing from either the Omitted Page 7 CHAP. XXXI.] EXPEDITION TO WARRENTON, ETC. 7 Second Virginia Cavalry or from the Fortieth Ohio Infantry, both of which were to have co-operated with us, I pushed forward my regiment as rapidly as possible on Buffalo. My advance met with such a warm reception that, after crossing the creek, I deployed on the right and left of the road and kept up a continual skirmish with rebel cavalry, driving them before us to within 1 mile of Buffalo, when the rebels opened upon us with two pieces of artillery, throwing small shells, which chiefly passed over our heads; and, not yet hearing from the Second Virginia or Fortieth Ohio, I ordered my regiment to unsling blankets and haversacks and move on, double-quick, and try to capture the enemys guns, which were placed near the bridge, at the lower end of the town; but, the enemy being mostly mounted and my force having to cross a marshy ravine, our progress was so impeded that we were unable to overtake them. We pursued them into the town-and to the river, where they separated, panic-stricken, a portion of them retreating up the river and the rest crossing over the river, upon whom we opened a brisk fire, driving them from the opposite bank. We remained one hour in Buffalo, hoping to hear from our forces on my right and left, which were expected to co-operate with me; but, not hearing from them, and ascertaining the strength of the enemy in front, I followed your order to fall back, bringing away all the property my regiment could carry, and destroying all com- missary stores below Buffalo belonging to the enemy. Had the bridge along the Kanawha been standing, I should have brought the conunis- sary stores to headquarters. We captured 2 of Jenkins cavalry, killed 5, and wounded at least as many more, and took a number of horses and S or 10 Enfield rifles; and, had the forces sent by your order to co- operate with us arrived at the scene of action in time to act in concert with us, the expedition would doubtless have accomplished all that you desired, even to the capturing of Brigadier-General Jenkins and his entire force, as he slept in a private residence in Buffalo on the night In conclusion, permit me to say that not a single officer or soldier of the Ninety-first faltered, and, as this is a new regiment never before under fire, I cannot refrain from saying that they acted like veterans and elic- ited my admiration. I returned to camp last night, after having marched 45 miles in thirty hours, skirmishing four hours of that time, without the loss of a man. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOHN A. TIJIRLEY, Colonel, Comdg. Ninety-first Regiment Ohio Vol. Infty. Col. J. A. J. LIGHTRURN, Commanding District of Kanawha. SEPTEMBER 29, 1862.Expedition from Centreville to Warrenton and Buckland Mills, Va. Report of Licut. Col. Joseph Karg6, First New Jersey Cavalry. CENTREVILLE, VA., October 1, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with your orders of September 28 to attack Warreuton, I started with my com- mand on the 29th, at 6 a. m. My command consisted of 200 of the New Jersey Cavalry, 150 of the Harris Light, and 150 of the First Peunsy Page 8 8 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. vania Cavalry. I proceeded on the Warrenton turnpike, through Gaines. yule and New Baltimore; found on my way thither no traces of the enemy, although I had the country patrolled on my right and left flanks for about 14 to 2 miles. At precisely 2.30 oclock p. m. my advance guard charged through the town, whilst my skirmishers took position on the different avenues leading from town, south, east, and west. I followed immediately with two other squadrons, leaving two behind as a support, drawn up in line one-half mile this side of the town. I found no opposition whatever. About 30 of the enemys cavalry dashed through town shortly before our arrival, taking the road toward Culpeper. The people of the place rushed out in crowds, and were, as a general thing, very friendly inclined toward us. Every house in town I found filled with wounded and sick~ the streets were crowded with convalescents, and, apparently, stragglers, who eagerly pressed forward around my men and engaged in friendly conversa~on. The accommodations in the hospitals I found anything 1)ut decent. Ihe poor sufferers were lying on the bare floor, wrapped in a poor blanket, and seldom a straw pillow under their heads. In some of the houses the sick and wounded were literally decaying in their own filth, and nobody seemed to care for them; in short, the scene I have witnessed beggars description. The wounds were mdstly of a very serious character, and amputation of legs and arms were very frequent. The number of deaths amounted, daily, to 50, caused no doubt by want of proper care, nourishment, and medical stores. Of the two latter they were perfectly destitute, so fir so, that some of the ladies of high respectability expressed to me the wish that the United States authorities, having taken posse~sion of the place, would do something to alleviate the sufferings both of the sick and inhabitants. The country is stripped of everything in the shape of provisions, and starvation stares the people in the face. A good many of the citizens approached me with confidence, offering their services in the shape of little refreshments, and the warm and sincere shake of the hands on their side attested sufficiently how glad they were to see again Union trool)s. The gentlemanly surgeon of the post, Dr. Fisher, was of great service to me in procuring the register of sick and wounded, and when I bade him good-by his eyes moistened with tears. I found in the place about 40 army surgeons, of different ranks. The number of paroled prisoners amounts to about 1,300 or 1,400. They were all eager to get their papers, an(l my officers had their hands full to issue them, and, once provided with such, they pressed around me, asking whether this scrap of paper would henceforth free them from military duty, and, when assured that it would, they went off with gleaming faces, assuring me that they rather would rot than to take up arms again against the Yankees. Not an un- kind word was l)assed, on either side, during the whole transaction. My trool)s behaved in a splendid manner, and made a very favorable im- pression among the inhabitants of the to~vn and prisoners. At precisely 5.30 p. m. I left the town with my command, an(l, proceeding to Buck- land Mill, $ miles north, on the Warrenton pike, I encamped for the night, whence I marched next morning at 6 oclock for Centreville. Furthermore, I beg leave to state that the cavalry force detailed to this corps is by far too inadequate to answer the purposes for which it is destined. First. The great distances which separated us from the enemy, an Page 9 CHAP. XXXLI SKIRMISH NEAR GLENVILLE, W. VA. 9 the extensive line we have to guard, require at least a double amount of cavalry than we now have at our disposition. Second. The numerous posts on picket at Fairfax and Centreville require alone over 200 men; whereas, for the present, our cavalry force in all does not amount to 1,000 men, among whom 200 at least are not fit for (luty, be it on account of the unserviceable condition of the horses or of the sickness of the men. In order to benefit the service and further our cause, we ought to have, at least, an available force of 1,500 men, of cavalry, of which 500 ought to remain in reserve. While 600 are engaged in expeditions, the re- inainder (400) would remain there for outpost duty and small scouting parties within and without our lines. Humbly submitting my report and my views to your kind considera- tion, I have the honor, general, to remain, your obedient servant, JOSEPH KARGl~, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Detachment. [Indorsement.] HDQRS. DEFENSES SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Arlington, October 7, 1862. Respectfully forwarded. This report discloses a most lamentable state of affairs. It is to be hoped that the rebels ere this have done some- thing for their suffering wounded. I expect to increase the cavalry force in the advance. S. P. HELNTZELMAN, Brigadier- General. Major-General SIGEL, (ommanding Eleventh corps. SEPTEMBER 3O~ 1862.Skirmish near Glenville, W. Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army. NEW CREEK, VA., October 1, 1862. Nothing new; all quiet here. Can hear nothing of the force reported to have left Martinsburg on Saturday. The enemys pickets extend west from Winchester as far as Bloomery Gap, on the Springfield road, and Big Cacapon Bridge, on the Romney road. A detachment of my cavalry (50 men) attacked 65 of Jenkins cavalry, near Glenville, in Gil- mer County, yesterday, and routed them completely; killed 5, wounded several; took 2 prisoners and 8 horses. B. F. KEI~LEY, Brigadier- General, General 11. B. MARcY Chief Qf Staff, Army of the PotomaQ Page 10 10 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. [ChIAI~. XXXI. OCTOBER 1, 1862.Reconnaissance from Sharpsburg, Md., to Shepherds. town and Martinsburg, W. Va., and skirmishes en route. REPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Alfred Pleasonton, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. No. 3.Gen. Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern Virginia. No. 4.Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS, Sharpsburg, Md., October 2, 186212 noon. (Received 2.10 p. in.) A cavalry reconnaissance in force was ma(le yesterday to Martins- burg. Stuart is said to have been in waiting for this, with several regi- ments of cavalry. The rebel cavalry resisted the advance of our forces from the time they left Shepherdstown until they arrived at Martins. burg, using artillery continually. Our troops drove them upon every occasion, and, it is supposed, inflicted a severe punishment upon them, taking several prisoners. The people of Martinsburg expressed great satisfaction at the arrival of our troops. From the best information that has been obtained, Jackson, the two Hills, and Ewell, with their forces, are now in the vicinity of Bunker Hill. General Sumner sent a brigade to Leesburg yesterday, for the purpose of attacking a rebel force, sup- posed to be there. No report has yet been received of their arrival. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General IIALLECK. Major- General. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. Alfred Pleasonton, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Camp near Knoxville, Aid., October 14, 1862. GENERAL: The following official report of General Robert E. Lee has been published in the Richmond papers, in reference to an affair I had with the enemys cavalry at Martinsbl]rg, and in that vicinity, on the 1st instant. This report contains so many htlse statements as to induce inc to submit the facts, as they occurre(l, for your information, with the request that the same publicity be given my statement that General Lees has received : * * * * * * * * I crossed the Potomac River on the morning of the 1st instant, with 700 men, consisting of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, three squadrons from each of the Eighth Pennsylvania and Third Indiana Cavalry, and Penningtons battery of ar~llery. 1 drove the enemys pickets out of See No. 3, p. 12 Page 11 CHAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO SHEPHERDSTOWN, W. VA., ETC. 11 Shepherdstown, and followed the Ninth Virginia Cavalry, on the Mar- tinsburg road, so rapidly that they fled, leaving one of their dead in the road. This dead body was still in the road on my return, in the even- ing, showing I had the possession of it the whole day. Five miles from Shepherdstown the road forks, one branch going in the direction of Bunker Hill, and it was on this road that Lees brigade was posted; the other passes on to Martinsburg, and, in obedience to my orders, I moved on it. Two miles of travel brought me to the Opequon Creek, on the opposite bank of which, and some 3 miles down, I observed a battery of artillery in position, which soon opened on me. I paid no attention to this, and the rebels themselves saw their absurdity and stopped firing. I continued my movement to Martinsburg, and easily drove several squadrons in my front into the town, my advance arriving at the edge of the town by 2 oclock in the day. It was soon discovered that Hamp- tons brigade of cavalry and four pieces of artillery were drawn up in the center of the town, and that. two bridges between my forces and theirs had been destroyed by these boastful soldiers, who represented they were so anxious to get at my commaiid. With three squadrons of cavalry and one piece of artillery,~Hamptons command was soon driven from Martinsburg, and I leisurely entered the town with this force, and executed all the orders I had received in regard to it. On entering the town I found the bridges had been replaced, and I was informed that the ladies of the place had turned out and built them up for my men to cross. The mention of this incident speaks for itself, as an affecting exhibition of the loyalty and devotion in the present great struggle for national existence. I remained in Martmsburg until 5 oclock in the afternoon, some time after 1 had finished my business, to see if the rebels would attack me. They did not; so, in obedience to your orders, I commenced to return toward Shepherdstown by the same road I had gone out, and, that the rebels might follow me, if they felt so inclined, I left the bridges intact that they had destroyed in the morning. After crossing the Opequon Creek, a section of artillery, with suitable force, remained in the rear, to cover the march, which was leisurely conducted at a walk. The enemy, presuming that my movement was a retreat, came at a headlong gallop toward my rear, when some six or eight well-directed shells scattered his force in confusion over the hills, and he did not rally until my rear had passed over nearly 2 miles of distance, when he brought up fresh troops from the road leading toward Bunker Hill. My command cared so little for the enemys attacks that they moved on at a walk,and the rear section of artillery was, in consequence, quite near the rebels on the road. When apprised of this, I immediately placed a section of artillery in position and opened on the enemy, over the heads of my men, and, the other sections coming up, their fire did such execution that the enemy neither troubled us nor was heard of any more that night. Several of my squadrons engaged the enemy at short distance, and always main- tained their position until they were directed to move. This last affair occurred over 4 miles beyond Shepherdstown, and in it we captured 9 prisoners and 10 horses and equipments, and I have since heard, from good authority, that the rebels buried 66 dead, as the result of that fight. My loss was only 12 men, slightly wounded (they were able to ride to camp), and 3 men taken prisoners, by the horses falling with them. Their horses were not captured. I brought off from Martinsburg some two dozen citizens, anxious to leave, and9 boys, belonging to Frederick, who had been impressed into the rebel service but had run away Page 12 12 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. Among the officers of my command who had opportunities for (115- tinction~and availed themselves of them, were Major Medill, Captains Clark, Farnsworth, and Forsyth, of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, and First Lieutenant Pennington, of the Secoud Artillery, commanding the horse battery. I am , general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier. General, Commanding. General H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. No. 3. Report of General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of North em Virginia. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, October 2, 1862. GENERAL: The enemys cavalry, under General Pleasonton, with six pieces of artillery, drove back our pickets yesterday in front of Shep- herdstown. The Ninth Virginia Cavalry, which was on picket, repulsed the enemy several times, by vigorous charges, disputing the ground, step by step, back to the main body. By the time his artillery reached him, Col. W. H. F. Lee, who was in con)mand of the brigade, was obliged to place it on the west bank of the Opequon, on the flank of the enemy as he approached Martinsbnrg. General Hamptons brigade had retired through Martinsburg on the Tuscarora road, when General Stuart arrived and made dispositions to attack.# Lees brigade was advanced imme- diately and Hamptons ordered forward. The enemy retired, at the ap- l)roach of Lee, along the Shepherdstown road, and was driven across the Potomac by the cavalry, with severe loss, and darkness alone prevented it from being a signal victory. His rear was overtaken and put to flight, our cavalry charging in gallant style nuder a severe fire of artillery, routing squadron after squadron, killing a number, wounding more, and capturing several. He was driven through Shepherdstown and crossed the river, after dark, in no case standing a hand-to.hand conflict, but relying upon his artillery and carbines at long range for protection. I regret that we lost one lieutenant and several privates. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, H. E. LEE, General. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, C. S. A., Richmond, Va. No. 4. Report of Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS HAMPTONS BRIGADE, October 21, 1862. GENERAL: The inclosed report of General H. E. Lee, in reference to the late advance of the enemy on Martinsburg, has just met my eye, and See Hamptons report, following Page 13 CHAP. N~Xt1 RECONNAISSANCE tO ~HtPHERDSTOWN, W. MA., ETC. I g I beg most respectfully to call your attention, and, through you, that of the general commanding, to the injustice which, unintentionally, no doubt, has been done to the brigade I have the honor to command. The report says: General Hamptons brigade had retired through Martinsburg, on the Tuscarora road, when General Stuart arrived and made dispositions to attack. * This phraseology implies that the enemy had advanced on Martins- burg through my lines, and had driven in my brigade. The following statement will show that such was not the case: As you are aware, my line extended on the Potomac from Black Creek to the month of the Opequon, where General Leejoined me. Upon con- sultation with Colonel Lee (who was in command of the brigade) the day before the advance of the enemy, he said that if his pickets were driven in he would make a stand at Williamstons Cross-Roads, and, if forced to retire, would fall back to the stone bridge, which he would hold to the last extremity. On the morning of October 1, a courier from Colonel Lee informed me that the enemy were advancing on him, and, soon after, another courier notified me that Colonel Lee had fallen.back to the cross-roads. Expect- ing an attack upon my own picket line, I ordered my brigade to be ready to move, and I sent a few men from the provost-guard toward the stone bridge, to procure information of the movements of the enemy. In a short time they returned, and, to my great surprise, informed me that the enemy had crossed the bridge, and that there were no pickets be- tween that point and Martinsburg. I instantly sent a squadron down toward the bridge and ordered up a gun. Proceeding with this force, I soon saw that the enemy had crossed the bridge, and in a few mo- ments they appeared between me and the town, not more than 600 yards from the latter. This forced me to recall my squadron, and to send the gun into town, the only position which was available. Placing my gnus in position here, I ordered my wagons to go by the Bomney road (as I had agreed with Colonel Lee to do) to iDarkesville. The First North Carolina, with two guns, was sent as an escort for the wagons, and to hold the Winchester road where the cross-road intersected it, in case I should have to fall back. Afte- my wagons had all got off, and mes- sages had been sent to bring in my pickets (all of whom had to retire by lledgesville, as the enemy had got completely in their rear), I withdrew my two remaining guns from the town, as I was very unwilling to draw the fire of the enemy upon the village, and placed them in position on a hill commanding both the Winchester and Tuscarora and Romney roads, and between the two. All of the brigade, except the First North Car- olina Regiment and the squadrons on picket, were drawn up as a sup- })ort to these guns on the Tuscarora road, in advance of the camp of the North Carolina and South Carolina regiments. From this position, I wrote to Colonel Lee, telling him that we could retake the town, and the letter was given to one of his pickets, who failed to send it to the colonel. As soon as I found the enemy retiring, I ordered up my command before receiving any order from yourself. My brigade went with Lees to Flaggs Mill, and were then sent to re-establish their picket line, while a section of my artillery proceeded to within 2 miles of Shepherdstown, the last position from which Lees artillery fired that night. This is a full statement of this affair as far as my brigade was con- cerned, and I beg to refer you to Colonel Lee, who will, I am sure, cor- roborate the facts as far as they relate to his brigade. I do not attach any blame to him that the positions he had designated to hold were not See p. 12 Page 14 14 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [~ThAr. XXXt held, nor that his pickets did not give me any notice of the approach of the enemy. I simply state the facts, that none of my pickets were driven in; that the enemy did not advance over any road under my supervision, and that they were within 600 yards of the edge of the town, on the Shepherdstown road, before I was aware of their proximity. I then took position in front of my camps, and held it until my pickets were withdrawn. In justice to my brigade, I beg that you will transmit this statement to the general commanding. I did not make a report to you because, though I had been placed in a most critical position by the failure of Colonel Lees pickets to communicate with me, still, I met with no loss, and I did not desire to appear to attach any blame to Colonel Lee. This was especially the case after he had so frankly, in your presence, apol- ogized to me for the failure of the plan of operations we had agreed on; nor do I wish to detract from any commendation you have bestowed on Lees brigade; my only object is to vindicate my own. Hoping that you will excuse the minuteness of my statement, I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WADE HAMPTON, Major-General STUART. Brigadier-General. OCTOBER 12, 1862.Reconnaissance from I{arpers Ferry, W. Va., to Leesburg, Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Nathan Kimball, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS KIMBALLS BRIGADE, Harpers Ferry, Va., October 3, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your orders, I left camp early on the morning of the 1st instant, with my brigade, consisting of the Fourth Ohio, Fourteenth Indiana, Seventh Virginia, Eighth Ohio, and One hundred and thirty-second Pennsylvania Volun- teers, and the Sixth U. S. Cavalry, with four 3-inch rifled pieces of horse artillery and Franks battery of light 12-pounders, and, crossing the Shenandoah on the l)ontoon bridge at Harper~s Ferry, marched, by an exceedingly rough and difficult road, along the southwest bank of the Potomac River, to Dutchmans Creek, a mountain brook that empties into the Potomac at the easterly base of Short Mountain, about 5 miles from Harpers Ferry, and, taking the road that leads up the gorge through which this brook runs, passed into the Catoctin Valley, by the way of Lovettsville. A body of the enemys cavalry, under the command of Captain White, had been marauding and pillaging in the village and in the country adjacent the day before, and a Mr. Stoneburner, a Union citizen and merchant, was robbed and obliged to flee for his life, they taking from his store not only articles of use to them, but everything they could carry away, destroying what they could not. I advanced along this road toward Waterford as rapidly as possible, thoroughly examining the country on both sides, with both cavalry and infantry scouts, until, at the village of Waterford, ~he advance guard surprised and cal)tured 6 of the enemys pickets stationed at that place. The pris- oners were sent to you immediately. From information received at this village, I hoped to surprise a body of the enemys cavalry, which I was led to ihink might be at Lecsbnrg, and, pushing on rapidly, reached the summit of the Catoctin Mount Page 15 CHAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO LEESBURG, VA. 15 ains, within 1~ miles of Leesburg, at 8 oclock in the evening, without meeting with any fnrther signs of his scouts or pickets. I here learned that a body of 1,200 of the enemy~s cavalry, with two guns. were en- camped at Snickers Gap, and that 2,000 had left Leesburg that day for Aldie. Posting three squadrons of cavalry and three guns on the sum- mit of the mountain, the main body at the intersection of the Waterford road with the Leesburg and Winchester turnpike, and thoroughly picket- ing in every direction, 1 rested for the night, the men sleeping on their arms. At early dawn, the advance entered Leesburg, and found no enemy there except a number of sick and convalescent, who were taken pris- oners and paroled. A list of their names* is hereto attached. At 9 oclock the line of march was taken up, and, leaving Waterford on the right, I moved, on the road leading through Wheatland and llillsborough frito the valley between the Blue Ridge and Short Hills, to a point about 10 miles from Harpers Ferry, where I went into camp at 3p. ma. Along this road the enemys pickets were posted in several places, but they fled toward the mountains on our approach. In consequence of informa~ tion, brought in by my scouts early in the evening, relating to the roads leading toward and around the ground I occupied, and that contained in your dispatch, which reached me at 8.30 oclock in the evening, I broke up camp and marched into Harpers Ferry that~ night, reaching the old camp-ground at 2 oclock this morning, having marched 43 miles in the enemys country in as many hours. The Catoctin Valley, and the valley between the Blue Ridge and Short Mountains, in the vicinity of Hilisborough, contain an abundance of hay and large quantities of grain and cattle, and the inhabitants in the Catoctin Valley appear, generally, to be loyal. I ascertained that a force of about 1,200 of the enemys cavalry were encamped at the pass near Snickersville, and that, with the exception of occasionally a small squad in search of plunder and conscripts, there was no enemy in the vicinity of Leesburg or in the Valley of Catoctin. Information was received that the main body of the rebel army was at Bunker Hill, half-way between Martinsburg and Winchester, and that a large force was at Kerustown, 3~ miles south of i~he latter place. I desire to express to you my admiration of the soldierly conduct of 1)0th officers and men of the Sixth U. S. Cavalry, under the command of Captain Sanders, as well as that of Major Robertson, of the horse artillery, and Captain Frank, of the Second New York Artillery, as exhibited in the thorough and earnest performance of their arduous (lilties in an exceedingly rough ai~d difficult country; and, although meeting no enemy, their bearing was such as to inspire me with con- fidence in their skill and bravery. My old command fully sustained its reputation for fortitude and en- durance. Many of them, in a most commendable spirit, left camp, for this march, who were not physically able to endure it, as the day was very hot, the country rough, and the march very fatiguing, and some of these fell out, from sheer exhaustion, and returned slowly to camp; but the motive that actuated them is an honor. General, I am proud of my brigade. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, NATHAN KIMBALL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. * Omitted Page 16 16 OPE1~A1~IONS t~ N. VA., W. VA., MP., A~P PA. ~~nAr. Z~t OCTOBER 2-4, l802.Operations at Blues Gap (or Hanging Rock), Little Cacapou Bridge, and Paw Paw Tunnel, W. Va. No. 1.Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac, of the capture of Union forces at Little Cacapon Bridge, October 4. No. 2.Col. Amirew T. McReynolds, First New York Cavalry, of the capture of Union forces at Little Cacapon Bridge and Confederate camp at Hanging Rock, October 4, with instructions. No. 3.Col. Jacob M. Campbell, Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry, of the capture of Union forces at Little Cacapon Bridge and Paw Paw Tunnel, October 4. No. 4.Asst. Surg. Andrew W. Mathews, Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry, of the capture of Union forces at Paw Paw Tunnel, October 4. No. 5.Private John J. Spangler, Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry, of the capture of Union forces at Paw Paw Tunnel, October 4. No. 6.General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, of Imbodens operations, and congratula- tory letter to him. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac1 of the capture of Union forces at Little Cacapon Bridge, October 4. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, October 5, 1862.-11 a. m. I received a report last night that the railroad bridge across the Little Cacapon, near Cumberland, was destroyed by 1,500 of Stuarts cavalry on the night previous, and that the sanie party had captured~a coin- pany of the Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Colonel McReynolds, with two regiments of our cavalry, was there, or in the immediate vicin- ity, as also General Kelley, for the express purpose of preventing such raids. I ordered Colonel Averell last night to proceed rapidly from Williamsport, with four regiments of cavalry and a horse battery, to that section, and to use his utmost endeavors to chastise Stuarts party. He will act vigorously, and I confideiitly anticipate some good results. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General HALLECK, Major- General. General-in- Chief. No. 2. Reports of Gol. Andrew I. McReynolds, First New York Cavalry, of the capture of Union forces at Little cfacapon Bridge and Confederate camp at Hanging Rock, October 4, with instructions. GREEN SPRING, VA., October 4, l862f3p. m. A cavalry force, said to be Stuarts cavalry, made a raid on the rail- road early this a. in., capturing one company Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Regiment, and destroying the Little Cacapon Bridge, and cutting the telegi-aph line. It is expected they have designs on the South Branc Page 17 ChAr. XXXI.1 OPERATIONS AT BLUE S GAP, W. VA., ETC. 17 Bridge and Pattersons Creek Bridge to-night. Under these circum- stances, I feel called upon to remain here until tomorrow, although I had arranged to leave for Williamsport to-day. If I should withdraw my force from Springfield-or this point, it would leave the, way open to the rebels to South Branch Bridge and through to Cumberland. A. T. McREYNOL~S, Colonel, Commanding. General WILLIAMS, Headquarters Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 18627 p. m. Col. A. T. MOREYNOLDS, Green Spring: Yon will remain in the vicinity of your present position until further orders, and take immediate steps to prevent time destruction of the bridges you refer to in your dispatch of to-day. Call upon any forces in your vicinity to assist you, if necessary. Acknowledge receipt. By order of General McClellan: IR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 18628.30 p. mu. Col. A. T. MCREYNOLDS, Green Spring, Va.: Colonel Averell, commanding four regiments of cavalry, now at Wil - liamsport, has beemi notified of the state of things, as reported by you, in your vicinity, and has been ordered to proceed at once with all his avail- able force to cut off Stuarts cavalry. Endeavor to communicate with him to-morrow. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Green Spring, Va., October 4, 18621~ p. ni. (Received 11.45 a. in., October 5.) General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Both your dispatches of this day received. I have taken full pre- cautionary measures for the protection of the railroad bridges west of this 1)Oint, having strong pickets at Springfield and Rommicy, to l)revent any advance by any of these routes. The rebel force, after leaving Little Cacapon Bridge, moved east on the railroad to Paw Paw, wimere they captured, at noon to-day, one company entire of the Fmfty-fourth Penn- sylvania Regimemit, without resistance, then retiring by time Winchester road. lt consisted of about 1,500 mencavalry and artillery in nearly equal portions. A battalion, under Captain Boyd, will leave Spring- fleld early to~morrow morning, with orders to move cautiously toward Uloomnery Gap, for the purpose of coinmuunicating with Colonel Averell. A. T. MoREYNOLDS, Colonel, Commanding. Copy sent to General Halleck. 2 R R-~--VOL KIX, FT Page 18 18 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 1862. Col. A. T. MUREYNOLDS, Green Spring: Colonel Averell was ordered last night to proceed froiu Williamsport to the vicinity of the Big Cacapon, to operate against the rebel forces. I have telegraphed to him, via ilagerstown, to move rapidly up to join you in the pursuit, but, as he may not receive my dispatch, you will l)lease seud messengers out on the different roads, to communicate with him as rapidly as possible, informing him of everything you know in relation to the enemys movements and the movements of your own troops. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. GREEN SPRING, October 5, 1862. General H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Your dispatch this day received. I have sent detachments on all routes by which Colonel Averell can approach this vicinity, to commu- iticate and co-operate with him. imboden retired to Big Cacapon Bridge, arriving there probably this evening. Eight companies of my command, under Captain Boyd, are hard after him. My entire effective force is very small, only about 700 men, and horses almost entirely exhausted. Ii have sent out all 1 can spare, and retain adequate protection for the railroad. I have to report, additional to details given this morning, the utter destruction of Imbodens camp, the haversacks, clothing, and bag- gage of his ei~tire command, 100 muskets, 3 wagon-loads of musket ammunition, a large quantity of quartermaster and commissary stores, his entire wagon-train, bringing away ambulances, two brass mountain howitzers, a large quantity of canister, ball, and friction primers, leav- ing behind nothing. Among the prisoners whom I have sent to Cum. berland were a major and lieutenant. A. T. MoREYXOLDS, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Copy to General Pleasonton, commanding Cavalry Division, Harpers Ferry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CAVALRY BRIGADE, Green Spring, Va., October 5, 18624 a. m. I have ascertain~d positively that the raid yesterday was comuritted by Imboden, with 1,500 men500 cavalry and 1,000 infantry. During the time that Jinboden was absent from his camp, a detachment of the First New York Cavalry, under Capt. W. H. Boyd, made a raid on his camp, dispersing the enemy in superior force, capturing 25 prisoners, 2 pieces of artillery, 10 wagons, 20 mules, and 25 horses, together with all of Imbodens private papers, and other papers of great interest. This took place on Blues Gap, or Hanging Rock, on the South Branch. The bridge is covered by my pickets. A. T. MoREYNOLDS, General R. B. MARCY, Colonel, 6ommandin~. Chief of Staff Page 19 CHAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS AT BLUE~~ GAP, W. VA., ETC. 19 No. 3. Reports of Col. Jacob M. Campbell, Fiftij-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry, of the capture of Union forces at Little Cacapon Bridge and Paw Paw Tunnel, October 4. IIDQRS. FIFTY-FOURTH REGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOLS., Sir Johns Run, Va., October 9, 1862. GENERAL: I have to report that, on the morning of the 4th instant, at 6 oclock, the enemy, with a force of about 900 (supposed to be under the command of Colonel Imboden, and from Romney), composed of in- fantry, cavalry, and one piece of artillery, made an attack on Company K, Fifty-fourth Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, Captain Newliard, at Little Cacapon Bridge. Seven men of Company K were wounded, when the company surrendered. The enemy set fire to the bridge (a temporary trestle-work) and cut the telegraph wire, and then proceeded to Paw Paw, 3 miles distant, where Company B, Captain lute, was stationed. The whole rebel force immediately surrounded them on all sides, when, deeming resistance useless, that company surrendered. Finding the telegraph deranged, I took a party of 20 men, in an en- gine, from this post, and procee(Ied up the railroad to within 5 miles of Paw Paw. Learning there what had taken place and that the enemy were coming down the road, I ran the train up to No. 12 water station, and immediately ordered the detachment of Company E (30 men), at that post, aboard the train, and started down the road, taking up a de. tachment of 30 men of Company II, stationed at Orleans road, on the way. I put off the detachment of Company E at Great Cacapon Bridge, and brought the detachment of Company II to this post. About 11 oclock on Sunday night (5th instant) I learned that an attack on my post opposite Hancock and on the Great Cacapon Bridge (5 miles above this place) was contemplated by th~ enemy. I immedi- ately withdrew my force from Cherry iRun to the post opposite Han- cock, and brought the force from Great Cacapon Bridge to this post, uniting it with the force here. I marched out the Bath road, placing my force between the bridge and the road the enemy would have to travel to get to it. On Monday, the 6th instant, a force of rebel cavalry came down the Winchester road, toward Bath. At the same time, an infantry force advanced, by the Martinsburg road, toward the same point. From some cause, the cavalry halted about Smiles from here and precipitately returned, going to Pughtown, I believe. The infantry fell back about the same time toward Hedgesville, since which I have no positive infor. mnation concerning them, but have been told by a citizen that they are encamped on Dr. Hammonds farm, near North Mountain Station. I have ordered out a scouting party to-day in that neighborhood, and will endeavor to find out their position and numbers. The cavalry, under Captain Langholz, sent to me, have been of no service whatever, as he has not executed any order given him by me. Ou last Sunday night (5th instant), when cavalry would have been of great service to my command, he crossed the river, at Sleepy Creek, into Maryland, without orders, and I heard nothing of him or his com- mand until yesterday morning (8th instant), when he came here (hav- ing left his command in Williamsport), with a request from Colonel Voss., of the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, that he be relieved from duty here. As his command was already gone and as General Averell had l)romised cavalry, I assented to the request of Colonel Voss Page 20 20 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. I was ordered by IR. B. Marcy, chief of staff to demand of Captain Langholz his reasons for abandoning his posts and crossing into Mary- land without orders, which I did, and submit his answer, through you, in his own words, viz: My command had no forage or rations for three days; the horses must be shod, and, as the infantry was ordered to fall back to Maryland, I could not get anything there for my command. A. H. LANGHOLZ, Captain Company B, Twelfth Illinois Cavalry Regiment. I will only a(ld that forage and rations were to be had at this post and could have been forwarded to any point on the railroad, if re- quested, and that the regimental quartermaster at this post has Cap- tain Langholzs requisition and receipt for forage and rations up to the 4th instant. On Tuesday evening, the 7th instant, I received orders from li. B. Marcy, chief of staff, to withdraw my command to Hancock. The order was countermanded by General Averell on Wednesday, the 8th instant, as it apl)eared to have been issued upon a misapprehension of facts tel- egraphed by General Kelley, and I now occupy the same l)OSitiOns on the road as when I last reported to you, except the posts at Paw Paw and Little Cacapoi, which are vacant. The capture of Companies B and K, of my regiment, has so weakened my conimand that I have not men enough to guard the road properly, and the companies, in their isolated positions, can olkr but a feeble re- sistance to the enemy, when attacked by a large force. Captain Suter, of Company A, Fifty-fourth Regiment, stationed at South Branch, immediately proceeded, on Sunday, 5th instant, to repair the telegraph wire, which was completed on Sunday night. The railroad bridge at Little Cacapon has beemi repaired, and trains will run to-day, both the telegraph and railroad being in working order as far east as Cherry iRun. I am, general, most respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. CAMPBELL, Colonel Fifty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. Major-Gcneral FRANKLIN, Sixth Army Corps. HDQRS. FIFTY-FOURTH ItEGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOLS., Sir Johns Run, Va., October 13, 1862. GENERAL: I inclose with this the statement of First Asst. Snrg. An- drew W. Mathews, and the (lel)ositiou of Private John J. Spangler, of Company B, both of the Fifty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, in relation to the surren(ler of Company B (Capt. John H. lute), of the sanme regiment, stationed at Paw Paw, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, on the 4th instant, to the rebel force, umi der the command of Colonel Im boden. The statement of Surgeon Mathews, in connection with the deposi- tion of Private Spangler, is all the positive information I have l)een able to obtain, they being the only persons present colmnecte(1 with the military who were not carried off by Colommel Imboden, but it leaves little to be added. From the statemnemit of Surgeon Mathews, it appears that Captain lute was warmied by the firing at Little Cacapon ($3 miles distant) that the enemy was near him. More than an hour afterward lie had inform Page 21 thIAP. XXXI.J OPERATIONS A~ BLUES GAP, W. VA., ETC. 21 tion of their numbers (an overestimate, as it appears to have been), and it was two or three hours after he had this information before any enemy appeared in sight, giving him ample time and opportunity to retreat, if he did not intend to fight. The deposition of Private Spangler shows that the company was well prepared, ready and willing to fight, but was basely surrendered by the officer, without firing a gun. Captain Hite, although in command, 1 have abundant reason to be- lieve, has long been governed, in a great measure, by his second lieu- tenant, H. G. Baer, who, by reason of his social position at home, has made himself the master spirit jn the company. Being the editor and proprietor of a newspaper, he has allowed no opportunity to pass to vilify the administration, and the sentiments attributed to Captain Hite by Private Spangler are merely the echoes of what appears weekly in his paper. The officers of Company B I have, until the 4th instant, regarded as amongst my personal friends. A sense of duty, nevertheless, com- l)els me to request, which I now do through you, that Capt. John H. lute, First Lieut. John Cole, and Second Lieut. Harry G. Baer, all of Company B, Fifty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, be dis- missed from service, for cowardice in the face of the enemy and sur- ren(lering the company (93 men) prisoners of war, without firing a gun or endeavoring to retreat.* I am, general, most respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. CAMPBELL, Colonel Fifty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Vois. Major-General FRANKLIN, & xth Army Corps. [Indorseinent.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CoRPs, October 21, 1862. Respectfully forwarded. I cordially indorse the recommendation of Colonel Campbell, and have ordered the arrest of the three officers, and that they be brought here if they can be found. W. B. FRANKLIN, Major-General, Commanding Sixth Corps. No. 4. Report of Asst. Surg. Andrew W. Mathews, Fifty fourth Pennsylvania In fantry, of the capture of Union forces at Paw Paw Tunnel, October 4. SIR JOHNS RUN, MORGAN COUNTY, VA., October 10, 1862. SIR: In answer to your request, viz, the particulars of the capture of Company B, Captain Hite, I would state that, on the -morning of October 4, about 6.30 oclock, I had seated myself in front of my mar- quec, when my ear was accosted with three volleys of rifle-shots, at * Captain Hite and Lieutenant Baer resigned in 1864; and Cole (as captain) was mustered out on expiration of~ service in same year. The records of the Adjutant- Generals Office exhibit no charges against them Page 22 22 OPERATIONS IN N. ~A, W. VA., MIX, AND PA. (L~a& r. XXZt intervals of a few seconds, seemingly iu the direction of Company K, which was posted about 3 miles distant, as you are aware. I was led to suppose the company was attacked, and also remarked to Captain Hites brother-in-law, who was present, that there should be a squad of men sent to see. He made the remark, There might be a strong force. After waiting a few minutes, I said, if no one else would go, I would, and ordered my colored man to saddle my mare, which he did, and I mounted and rode slowly up the railroad to the spring, which is about 400 yards from Company Ks quarters. From this point I could see the smoke from the burning bridge and camp, which were both on fire. But not yet satisfied, I crossed the river, and rode up the tow-path, almost opposite their quarters; but, as there was a dense fog, and many bushes along the river bank, I could not see much; but, while sitting on my nag, a man plunged across the river, a little above me, and was dodging through the bushes. I hallooed to him, what was the matter? He said Company K was taken. Are there any wounded ~l ~ was his reply. I then interrogated him as to the number of the rebel force, which he supposed to be 500. I then rode quickly back to Paw Paw, and gave the information to Company B. They got into their rifle-pit, and there remained for two or three hours before the rebels came upon them. From the time their advance guard made their ap- pearance until they formed in line of battle, before our rifle-pit, half an hour at least passed away. if Captain lute did not intend to fight, he had ample time to get away, I having given the company correct information of what was going on at the other company, and, in fact, made the rebel number greater than it was. There were, I judge, only about 80 to 100 cavalry and about 150 to 200 infantry when attacking Company B, a portion of them having kept back with Company Ks prisoners, so I was informed afterward. My position was taken about 500 yards, or a little more, distant, on Paw Paw Ridge, where I could see. The rebels were drawn up iu line of battle, about 300 or 400 yards distant from the rifle-pit, from which position they carried their flag of truce up in front of our men. The officers surrendered the company without firing a gun. There was not a gun discharged on either side. From previous conversation had with Captaimi flute, I was led to be- lieve he would not fight if attacked, and had so expressed myself to one of the men of his company. ANDREW W. MATHEWS, Assistant Surgeon I4ty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Vols. Col. J. M. CAMPBELL, Commanding Fifty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Vol.9. No. 5. Deposition of Private John J. Spangler, P~/ty:fourth Pennsylvania In- fantry, of the capture of Union forces at Paw Paw Tunnel, October 4. I was present at the surrender of Company B, at Paw Paw, on Satur- day, October 4, 1862. The first notice of the approach of the enemy was about sunrise, on Saturday morning, when we heard the firing at Little Cacapon, about 3 miles up the railroad, where Captain Newhard, of our regiment, was stationed. We saw the smoke arising from Littl Page 23 Cu~. XXXI.] OPERATIONS AT I3LTJES GAP, W. VA., ETC. 23 Cacapon Bridge a short time after we heard the firing. Captain Rite and Lieutenants Cole and Baer were all present, and saw the smoke. Two of our men started in the direction of Little Cacapon, to see what was the matter. When the men came back they told the captain that they had seen the enemy, and that they were coming down that way (meaning from Cacapon to Paw Paw). This was between 9 and 10a.m. Reury Schneider and Edward Ackerman were the men wlR reported the enemy coming, and both belonged to our company. The captain then told us to get rea(ly, pack our knapsacks, and get into ranks. After we were in ranks, Captain Rite said, Boys, will you retreat or fight O?~~ We all said fight. We were then marched into the rifle- pit. When we were in the rifle-pit, Captain Rite said, Boys, if you fire, take good aim for the head. We were in the pit between two and three hours before we saw any of the enemy. We first saw the enemy in the tow-path, on the canal. We next saw their pickets approach us on the Virginia side. We were on the Virginia side ourselves. Soon after, we saw the infantry advance on us, in a single column, on the Virginia side. They then marched from a hill down into a meadow, and formed in line of battle, between 400 and 500 yards from us. I suppose there were between 200 and 300 of the infantry. At this time Captain Rite said, Boys, will you fight or surrender ~ The great majority of the men replied fight. I only know of two who said ~ We then saw some cavalry oii the hill, about half a mile from us. When we saw the cavalry, Captain Bite again said, Boys, will you fight or surrender? The men replied, as before, fight. One of the enemy then approached with a flag of truce. Captain Rite and Lieutenants Cole and Baer went to meet him. I think the cavalry was about 100 strong. The infantry was, all this time, within rifle-range of us. I am certain we have practiced at target-shooting farther than they were from us and did good shooting. There were some 90 of us in the pit, armed with good Austrian rifles, and each of us supplied with from 110 to 120 rounds of ammunition. On an average, each of us had 50 rounds of compressed cartridges, and the remainder was the usual paper cartridge. XVe had plenty of water and hard bread in the pit. The enemy could not have got to us without crossing an open plain, exposed to our fire from the pit, where we were protected. The rifle-pits were pronounced splendid. When our officers met the man with the flag of truce, he went with them to the rebel officers, who met them about half-way. They were gone about five minutes when they returned. When they got to the rifle-pits, Captain Rite said, Boys, get out of the pits, now. We g~t out of the pits and into line, when the captain marched us away a short distance, and ordered us to stack arms. We did so, and found that we were prisoners. Our officers then went to their quarters, and began to get their things ready. I heard Captain Rite say, It is a damned ~ Lieutenant Cole seemed to be in a bad humor, and Lieutenant Baer did not seem to be well pleased. Nobody said anything. I de. termined not to be taken away, and told Captain Rite if they did not parole me there I would not go away; they might kill me, but I would not go. I was sick, and when they marched the company off I went along about 300 yards, and told them I would not go any fi~rther. I laid down at a barn, and the rest went ahead. Colonel Imboden commanded the rebel force. Re saw me at the barn, and told me to go on. I swore I would not, and did not go with them. I went to Green Spring, and then reported to the adjutant, at headquarters. There was not a shot fired on either side at the taking or surrender of our company Page 24 24 OPEl~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CiTAP. XXXI The evening before the surrender I had made up my mind that Cap- tain Rite would not fight. A few days before the capture, I heard Cap- tain Rite say, in his quarters, I wish the rebels would come in and take the company. This, connected with his very frequent abuse of the President, among our men, made me think him a traitor. He was very abusive in regard to the Presidents late proclamation. JOHN J. SPANGLER. Sworn and subscribed to before me, October 10, 1862, at Sir Johns Run, Morgan County, Va. AARON BEURTOL, J. P. No. 6. Report of General Robert B. Lee, 0. S. Army, of imbodens operations, and congratulatory letter to him. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, October 6, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 2d instant a scoutino party of Colonel Imbodens command encountered a company of the enemys cavalry near Hanging Rock, Hampshire Couiity, and captured Captain Battersby, Company B, First New York Cavalry, 5 of his men, 14 horses, with arms, equipments, & c. On the morning of the 4th, about day-break, he surprised an intrenched camp of the enemy at the mouth of the Little Cacapon. A dense fog enabled one of his companies to gain the trenches before he was discov. ered. In attempting to escape, 2 of the enemy were killed, 6 wounded, and Captain Newliard, Lieutenant Wagner, and 55 men of Company K, Fifty.fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, were captured. The railroad bridge over Little Cacapon was burned, with the companys buildings, & c. About 8 oclock the same morning, Colonel Imboden sent his cavalry across the Potomac to prevent the escape of the company at Paw Paw Tunnel, and, by leading his infantry across a precipitous mountain, sur- rounded the place, captured Captain Rite, Lieutenants [John] Cole and Baer, and 90 men of Company B, Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Volun- teers. He also captured 175 Austrian rifles and accouterments, and about 8,000 rounds of water-proof cartridges. The commissary stores, camp equipage, & c., he was obliged to destroy for want of transporta- tion. While thus engaged, 200 of the enemys cavalry, from Romney, made a descent upon his camp, near Cacapon Bridge, and put to flight his guard and about 100 unarmed men, whom he had left under charge of Lieutenant Stone. They burned one of his wagons, loaded with com- missary stores, and attempted to carry off five others, but deserted them on the road, carrying away the teams. They also burned the carriages of two of his 3-pounder mountain guns, and carried off the guns in the wagons. They destroyed his medical chest and captured 8 or 10 of his men. He subsequently recovered his wagons, with the ammunition and several of his horses, and reports that his loss will turn out to be small. I take pleasure in commending to your notice the handsome manner in which Colonel Ituboden has conducted this operation, and, by his judicious arrangements, encountered no loss of life on the part of his command, He had to abandon the destruction of the bridge over the South Branch of the Potomac. its great strength defied the effects of fire, and could only be effected by mining. Just before leaving Pa Page 25 ChAr. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO NEERSVILLE, YA., ETC. 25 Paw, his scouts reported the arrival east of the tunnel of two large trains, laden with troops, sent from Hancock to co-operate with the cavalry in cntting off his retreat. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, October 6, 1862. Col. J. D. IMBODEN, Commanding, ~c.: COLONEL: I have read with pleasure your report* of the attack upon the enemys cavalry at Hanging Rock, and the subsequent surprise of the two companies of the enemys infantry stationed at the mouth of the Little Cacapon and at Paw Paw Tunnel. The results accomplished, and the judicious arrangements which enabled you to effect them with- out loss of life on your part, are deserving of high commendation, the appreciation of which it gives me pleasure to express, with the request that you make it known to the officers and men of your command. I am, with high respect, your obedient servant, it. E. LEE, General. OCTOBER 46, 1862.Reconnaissance from Loudoun Heights to Neersville and Hillsborough, Va. Report of ]ieut. Wesley McGregor, Seventy-cighth New York Infantry. LOUDOUN HEIGHTS, VA., October 8, 1862. By your order, I selected 20 picked men from my company, and pro- ceeded as far as Neersville, but found no enemy; but was informed that a squad of rebel cavalry had been about 2 miles north of Neersville, and had captured 4 of our soldiers. I, not deeming it safe to proceed any farther with my small force, sent to you for re-enforcements, which arrived at 6 p. m. I then, having 70 men, considered myself safe from any force of cavalry that could be brought against me. I took a detachment of 18 men and crossed the mountains, to capture a rebel soldier, who, I had been informed, was secreted in a house. On my arrival on the top of the mountains, I was surprised to find about 30 men, who had been notified to report to Lieu- tenant Gaves[~], of the Confederate Army, who was stationed at Snick- ersville, and is the conscript officer of Loudoun County; but they failed to do so, and the rebels had sent squads of cavalry after them, and they fled to the mountains for safety. I I)roceeded to and surrounded the house of Steward Dorr, and took his son James, a rebel soldier, prisoner, whom I sent to you by Sergeant Cornell. The fohlow~ng morning, October 5, 1 took the mountain ridge and marched to within 1 mile of ilulisborough. I there divided my company in two parties, and marched into the town from two different directions, hoping to capture a few rebels; but, to my disappointment, they had * Not found Page 26 26 OPEThATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA, MD., AND PA. [CRAP. XXXI. fled, leaving behind about 30 head of cattle and a number of conscripts. I immediately posted a number of men in the town and marched the remainder of my company on a hill back of the town, where I was met by a number of citizens and refugees from the mountains, who, by their actions, considered us deliverers, and many of the families wept for joy. Many had been driven from their homes, and dare not return, on the pain of death. I told them I would give them all the protection in my power, but dare not inform them of my strength, for fear that other than loyal ears might find it out. About 4 p. m. I was informed that a large force of cavalry intended to attack us that iiight. I waited until dark, and suddenly drew in my pickets, and formed my men along a stone fence, where I could com- mand the road on which I expected the enemy to approach. After waiting some time, I sent a sergeant and 3 men on the mountain, to build about twenty camp-fires. I waited until about 10.30 p. in., and formed my company in open order with bayonets fixed, and marched through the town, in quick time, and a mile beyond, and took possession of a barn, and rested until nearly daylight, when, by a circuitous route, I marched back to the hill I had occupied the night before, where I was shortly informed that 2,000 Yankees had passed through the town the night before, and a regiment of cavalry had occupied the hill during the night. (What caused them to think there were cavalry I do not know, unless it was an old Quakers horse, that was attracted by the fire.) And such a force the rebels dare not attack. I was informed of the whereabouts of 65 rebel cavalry, and would have attacked them had I not been ordered into camp, leaving a large num- ber of inhabitants unprotected, and two fertile valleys open to the enemys foraging parties. Shortly before I started for camp, a squad of rebels rode up near to our pickets, who fired on them. They wheeled and ran, but were not quick enough to escape a bullet from one of the pickets guns, which took effect in a rebels leg. I learned that at Purceilville the rebels were organizing a company of cavalry; also, a force of 60 were at Woodville, and at Snickersville there is a force of 200 men, with two pieces of artillery. Sir, it is a place that ought to be held, which could be done by a force of 250 men. Cavalry would be preferable; but, if they could not be obtained, infantry would do. Yours, re4spectfully, W. MCGREGOR, Lieutenant, Gomdg. Oompany K, Seventy-eighth Yew York Yols. General GREENE, Gorndg. Third Brigade, Second Division, Twe~fth Army Uorps. OCTOBER 8, 1862.Reconnaissance from Conrads Ferry to Leesburg, Va. Report of Cot. J. H. Hobart Ward. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, Near Conrads Perry, Va., October 9,1862. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that no guides reported to me to direct the command sent over the river last night; that the com- zany of cavalry and 100 infantry, under the command of Lieutenant- Colonel Lakeman, of the Third Maine, ~vent to Leesburg, and have r Page 27 CHAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO ALDIE, VA., ANTI SEIRMISII. 27 turned, without meeting the enemy; that on the 4th instant Colonel Egan, of the Fortieth New York, made a reconnaissance over the river and captnred one caisson, complete, with ammunition, harness, & c., about 15 head of cattle, 3 horses, and some baggage, belonging to Gen- eral Hills command; that I have ordered the cattle to be killed and distributed among the different regiments in my command; that the baggage is detained as useless. I should like to be directed as to the caisson, harness, and horses. I am, sir, your obedient servant, J. II. HOBART WARD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. OCTOBER 89, 1862.Reconnaissance from Fairfax Court-House to Aldie, Va., and skirmish. Reports of Maj. Gen. Franz Sigel, U. S. Army. ARLINGTON HousE, October 9, 1862. Capt. RICHARD B. IRWIN, Assistant Adjutant- General: The following is just received: SIGELS HEADQUARTERS, October 9, 1862. General HEINTZELMAN: My cavalry entered Aldie yesterday, making 4 prisoners, who have been paroled; captured some teams loaded witli bacon, and one ambulance. My scouts just report from Gum Spring and Hopewell that there are no rebels there. Shall report when I hear from Leesburg. F. SIGEL. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Major- General. BANKS HEADQUARTERS, October 10, 186211.30 a. m. TVJaj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Following copy received from General Heiutzelman: FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, October 9, [1862]ll.50 p. m. General HEINTZELMAN: Lieut. S. B. Conger, Third Virginia Cavalry, made an attack on Aldie this noon, making 4 prisoners, and had quite a sharp skirmish on the other side of the town. The enemys loss was 1 killed and 3 wounded. No loss on our side. Finding the enemy too strong, he fell back to a toll-gate 7 miles this side of Aldie, to which point the enemy followed. A stronger detachment will be sent to the same place during the night, and also a detachment to Hopewell Gap. Information has been received that Longstreets corps is stationed 6 miles out of Winchester, on the Martinsburg road, and Jacksons forces are reported to be on the Harpers Ferry road. General Stuart is reported absent from XVinchester; his cavalry are guarding their right flank. Their pickets extend 9 miles out from Winchester toward Middlebnrg. A rumor among the rebel soldiers last Sunday that within a weeks time they will make their way to Manassas. The arms captured at Harpers Ferry by them have been distributedamong the conscripts. The teams captured to-day, hauling bacon at Middieburg, were pre- nared to move the bacon from Middleburg to Winchester. They have subsisted en- tirely of late npon flour and fresh beef, bacon being very scarce. Last Sunday they expected an attack by our forces from Martinsburg. None but the sick and wounded soldiers occupy the town of Winchester. Three rebel scouts passed through Hunters Mill to-day on their way to Aldie. F. SIGEL, Major-Gcszeral. BANKS, Major- Generai Page 28 28 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, TA., L. HUNT, [October 10, 1862]1.30 p. m. Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: Captain Conger, Third Virginia Cavalry, whom I sent to Aldie last night with 60 cavalry, reports the following: ALDIE, 6.30 p. in. All right. Nobody here; all gone to Middleburg. First Lieutenant [George F.] Means, rebel, of Balls cavalry, was killed yesterday in the fight; also one private and Captain Balls brother wounded. 7.10 P.M. Captain Gardner, from Centreville, has just come in with 45 men. We will move out toward Middleburg. F. SIGEL, Major- General, Commanding. OCTOBER 912, 1862.Stuarts Expedition into Maryland and Pennsyl vania. SUMMARY O~ TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. October 10, 1~6~2.Skirmishes at McCoys, or Kinsells, Ferry, and near Green Spring Furnace, Md. Capture of Signal Station on Fairview Heights, Md. Capture of Chambersburg, Pa. 11, 1862.Skirmish near Gettysburg, Pa. 12, 1862.Skirmish near month of the Monocacy, Md. Skirmish at Whites Ford, Md. ]~EPOI~TS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John E. Wool, U. S. Army, commanding the Middle Department. No. 2.Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Poto- mac. No. 3.Maj. Albert J. Myer, Chief Signal Officer, U. S. Army. No. 4.Brig. Gen. John R. Kenly, U. S. Army, commanding at Williamsport. No. 5.Capt. Thomas Logan, Twelfth Illinois Cavalry. No. 6.Brig. Gen. Alfred Pleasonton, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. No. 7.Brig. Gen. William W. Averell, U. S. Army, commanding First Cavalry Bri- gade. No. 8.Col. Richard H. Rash, Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 9.Brig. Gen. George Stoneman, U. S. Army, commanding division. No. 10.Brig. Gen. J. H. Hobart Ward, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. No. 11.Col. Henry G. Staples, Third Maine Infantry. No. 12.Lient. Col. Moses B. Lakeman, Third Maine Infantry. No. 13.Col. Elijah Walker, Fourth Maine Infantry. No. 14.Col. Thomas W. Egan, Fortieth New York Infantry. No. 15.Lient. Col. Edwin R. Biles, Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 16.General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern Virginia. No. 17.Maj. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. No. 18.Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade. No. 19.Correspondence and orders relating to movements of the Union forces Page 29 CIAL. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 29 No. 1. Report of Afaj. Gen. John E. Wool, U. S. Army, commanding the Middle Department. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Aid., October 14, 1862. GENERAL: On Friday evening I received (about 10 oclock) informa- tion, by telegraph, from Governor Curtin, of Pennsylvania, that the 3,000 rebel cavalry, and a section of artillery, under the command of General Stuart, were in possession of Chambersburg. it appears that the town had been surrendered upon the demand of the rebel general. I immediately ordered three regiments and a battery of six pieces to be got ready and proceed at once to Harrisburg; afterward I ordered a fourth regiment. The next morning, at 6 oclock, and as soon as I could obtain a special train, I proceeded to Harrisburg, where I arrived early in the (lay, and visited Governor Curtin. He appeared quite anxious about the safety of Carlisle. Although I did not agree with him on the subject, yet I proceeded to that place. On the way I received a telegram, informing me that the rebels had gone to Emmittsburg. I returned immediately to flarrisburg, and saw Governor Curtin, who had received the same information. I at once proceeded to Hanover Junction, where I arrived about 4 a. in., and where I met my troops ordered from Baltimore. These I immediately set in motion for Gettysburg, where they arrived about 1 p. in., and headed off the rebel cavalry, previous to which the advance of the rebels had been attacked by some of the Home Guards, when they retreated, leaving 5 prisoners in the possession of the Home Guards. The rebels went to Emmittsburg, and from there to Waynesborough, and were proceeding toward Boonsborough, when, on being informed of the advance of Pleasonton, they changed their course and proceeded with all haste to the Potomac, in a more easterly direction, and, as I was informed, by telegraph from Major.General McClellan, in the following language, viz: General Pleasonton, who was in pursuit of the rebel cavalry, reports that they have been driven back into Virginia, crossing the Potomac near the mouth of the Monocacy, and having marched 90 miles in the previous twenty-four hours, while Pleasouton, in I)ursuit, marched 78 miles in the same time. Colonel Cram, under whose direction I placed the troops at Gettys- burg, reported to me on Sunday that the rebels had retired to Har- bachs Valley. Oii Monday, 2.30 p. in., he reported, by telegram, that a part of the rebels, he thought, from information received, were yet in ilarbachs Valley. He sent scouts to ascertain, who were to report to him last night or this morning. I think the colonel will find that all the rebel cavalry have returned into Virginia, and have probably escaped alto- gether the vigilance of Major-General McClellan, having, in the meami time, made nearly the whole circle of the Army of the Potomaccer- tainly a bold and daring enterprise, in the execution of which the sol- diers at Chambersburg changed the rags which covered them for the uniform clothing of the United States, and supplied themselves on their route with 1,000 fresh horses, besides destroying, at Chambersburg, the railroad depot, with all the rolling-stock. They also tore up some of the rails of the road, and destroyed several bridges. Myself and staff were in motion from Friday evening until yesterda Page 30 30 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CI[Ar. XXXI. afternoon at 2 oclock, when we returned to Baltimore. During that time we had no rest or sleep, except what little could be taken in the cars. From want of cavalry, we could not follow the enemy, as he; from reports made to me, kept cOntinually on the trot, and sometimes even galloped his horses. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN E. WOOL, Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEUX, Major- General. General-in- Chief. No. 2. Report oJ Maj. Gun. George B. McClellan, U. AS~. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac.* HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18626 p. m. The rebel cavalry under Stuart, which left Chambershuro- yesterday morning in the direction of Gettysburg, reached the Potomac, near the mouth of the Monocacy, at about 9 a. m. to-day, having marched about 1O() miles in twenty-four hours. General Stoneman, who was at Pooles- ville, near where the rebels passed, was ordered by telegraph, at 1 oclock p. m. yesterday, to keep his cavalry well out on all the different ap- l)roaches from the direction of Frederick. so as to give him time to mass his forces to resist their crossing into Virginia. As you will see from the dispatch of General Pleasonton, just received and herewith transmitted, it does not appear that he complied with this order. He will be called upon for an explanation of this matter. It would seem that Pleasontons forces, although within but a short distance of Poolesville, received but little assistance from Stoneman. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIvIsION, Camp near Mouth of Monocacy, October 12, [186211.30 P. in. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: This morning, after my dispatch of 1.30, my advance guard met Stuarts, disguised in our uniforms, and, before they were recognized, a fire was opened, and, very soon after, their guns began to play upon us. In consequence of the weakness of the bat- tery horses, they having marched 78 miles in the last twenty-four hours, they could not move the pieces, and I had only two pieces that I could bring to bear on the enemy. This continued for upward of an hour, when I succeeded in getting up my six guns and soon silenced their battery. They retreated hastily and covered the ford, 3 miles below, with their guns on this side and some guiis that were placed in position for them on the other. I sent a regiment of cavalry and some infantry down the tow- path to intercept their crossing, and used every exertion to get my guns to follow them, but the horses could not pull up the hills, and I was obliged to use men. This took time enough for the rebels to escape. There was no artillery at this point, and, with the exception of a few infantry companies, I had no assistance. I held Stuart in check for two hours, but, for the reasons 1 have assigned, it was necessary to have timely assistance to capture his party. My men have behaved admirably. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. Six regiments of my cavalry had been sent to Cumberland to prevent the rebel depredations upon the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, which 8ee also Part I, pp. 72~4 Page 31 CHAP. XXXII STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 31 left us very deficient in cavalry here. As soon as Stuarts approach was known, however, one of these regiments was ordered back, but has not yet arrived. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. Major-General llAI~LEcK, General-in-Chief. No. 3. Aeport of Maj. Albert J. Myer, Chief 8ignal Officer, U. AS~. Army. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Knoxville, Md., October 21, 1862. Sin: I have the honor to snbmit the following report of operations of the Signal Corps of the Army of the Potomac, as relating to the recent passage of the lines of this army by a rebel cavalry force, under Maj. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart: Early on the morning of October 10,1862, a force of cavalry and artil- lery, es~Amated, by the signal officers who afterward saw them, as con- sisting of four regiments of cavalry and four guns, crossed from Virginia into Maryland at the McCoy Ford [Ferry] of the Potomac. The officers at the signal station on Fairview Heights were, about 8 oclock a. attacked by a party of about 20 of this cavalry, detached for that pur- pose, and were so nearly surprised at their station as to lose 2 privates, taken prisoners, and nearly all of their signal equipments. I refer for details to the inclosed report (A) of Lient. W. W. Rowley, acting signal officer, in charge of Fairview Station. It does not appear that these officers can be held blamable for a neglect of duty. According to the statement submitted, the valley of the river was, on that morning, ob- scured by fog. The river itself, the roads in Maryland leading from the ford, and the road by which the enemy approached the station were not visible from any point upon the mountain. The officers were not noti- fied by any pickets or others as to the approach of the enemy. I am not informed whether the enemy ought to have been seen in Virginia approaching the river, and prior to crossing. Upon being driven from the station, Lients. W. W. Rowley and W. B. Roe, acting signal officers, rode to Clear Spring, a distance of 3 miles from the station, and there reported the facts to Captain Russell, of the First Maryland Cavalry, who immediately sent the dispatch to Gen- eral Kenly, commanding at Williamsport. Lieutenant Rowley also dispatched a courier, with a statement of facts, to the signal station near ilagerstown, in charge of Lieut. J. II. Spencer. This courier arrived and reported to Lieutenant Spencer at about 11 a. m. Lieutenant Spencer at once reported the fact to General W. T. II. Brooks, commanding at Hagerstown. Lieutenants Rowley and Roe themselves arrived at ilagers- town at about 2 p. in., when they made a statement of facts, giving the probable force of the enemy and the~ number of his guns to Generals Franklin and Brooks, then at that place. A hasty report, in writing (C), made by them at that place, and addressed to me at these headquarters, is timed 2 p. m. of that day. At about 12 p. m. of October 10, I had the unofficial information of the crossing at these headquarters. The orders, of which the inclosrn~ Page 32 32 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. (B) is a copy, were, at that hour, given for the disposition of the signal parties for the ensuing day. The stations occupied by noon on Saturday, October 11, were: At Fairview Heights, communicating with ilagers- town and Williamsport; at General F. J. Porters headquarters, com- municating with a station on Elk Mountain; on Catoctin Ridge, west of Frederick, commanding both the Frederick and Middletown Valleys; on Sugar Loaf Mountain; on Point of Rocks, and on Maryland Heights, the four latter communicating with general headquarters, and a station on Washington Monument,* overlooking the Hagerstown Valley, and ordered to communicate to Hagerstown. This communication failed, for some reason, to be established. Some reports of minor importance were received from these stations on Saturday. The enemy was not, how- ever, anywhere visible from them. On Saturday night the officers on Catoctin Ridge and on the station east of that ridge were notified the rebel force would possibly try to pass the Potomac near the Monocacy. On the morning of the 12th October, the signal report of 4.30 a. m. (No. 1), from Sngar Loaf Mountain, forwarded by electric telegraph from Frederick, and received here between 8 and 9 a. in., announced nothing as visible at the hour first mentioned, from the mountain. This report was almost immediately, as to the time of the arrival here, followed by another (No. 2), upon which time is not marked, and which was probably made from Sugar Loaf soon after daylight, as follows: It is reported that the rebels have crossed. We can see heavy bodies of troops near Hyattstown. In reply to an inquiry from these headquarters as to what arm, and how uniformed, the Sugar Loaf Station, at 11 a. m. (No. 7), re- plied, All that are reported are cavalry, with gray uniforms. At 9.45 a. in. Sugar Loaf Station announced (No. 5) the opening of a battery by the enemy, between the mouth of the Monocacy and Poolesville, a little west of south of Sugar Loaf Mountain. At 12.15 and 12.30 p. m. the reports of the Sugar Loaf Station (Nos. 9 and 10) showed the enemy then still crossing the Potomac, and, so far as can be judged, at at least two l)oints. A final report, received about 5p. m. of that day, announced that no enemy was then visible froni that position. Reports received during the day from Point of Rocks show the enemy to have been visible from that place, and some of them dressed in the United States uniform. In- formation having been received at these headquarters that the enemy had scattered, and that most of them were at Point of Rocks (this about 3 p. in.), the station, in reply to an inquiry, at once informed these head- quarters that there were none of the enemy in that vicinity, but that troops, dressed in our uniform, were on the Virginia side of the Potomac. The station on (Datoctin Ridge, west of Frederick, reported the sound and apparent direction of the cannonade as soon as it was heard. While the engagement was progressing near the Monocacy, the station at Fairview Heights reported, through Hagerstown, as to appearances at (3hambersburg, the movement of infantry upon the turnpike near Han- cock, and that there were none of the enemy in the vicinity or visible from Fairview (No. 6). The station upon Elk Mountain reported early in the morning (No. 3) the fact that no enemy was in its view, and, at various times throughout the day, reports were received from Maryland Heights. The final report of the day was that of Point of Rocks, trans- mnitted through Maryland heights (No. 12), and announcing that at 5 p. m. the enemys mounted pickets were visible in Vjrginia, opposite iNolands Ferry, and that long lines of smoke could be seen in the vicinity of Leesburg. Near ~3oonsborou~h, Md Page 33 C~r. XXXI.) STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 33 I have the honor to inclose herewith copies of all official messages received on that day of which record was made. With the exception of the station upon Washington Monument, which failed to communicate with ilagerstown, the officers on duty were every- where on the alert, and the orders given them successfully obeyed. The case of an officer absent from his station is now under investigation. I have only to regret that the efforts of those who well did their duty were not followed by successes to our arms, to which they could claim to have contributed. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALBERT J. MYER, Signal Officer and Major U. S. Army. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac. [Thelosuro A.] ALBERT J. MYER, Signal Officer and Major U. S. Army: SIR: In compliance with orders from Headquarters Arlny of the Poto- mac, I have the honor to report that, on October 10, 1862, our signal party was surprised by a body of rebel cavalry, about 8 a. in., approach- lag the station. During the morning, the valley along the river was filled with a dense fog, which prevented seeing any portion of the river. The point at which the rebels crossed the river is hid entirely from view from any l)oint on this mountain; also, the road over which the force came after leaving the river is not visible, not even the slightest portion of it, from anyplace upon this mountain. The turnpike leading over the mountain, and which they crossed about 1 mile below our station, is winding, and can be seen from no one 1)Oiilt. but at a very few rods from our station it can be seen about 20 rods. Here it was we first saw the rebel cavalry approaching. They were on us in a very short time from our first seeing them. We had just succeeded in saddling our horses, at least part of us; Privates Vincent and Emge had not finished sad- dling theirs, which accounts for their capture. They were trying to save their horses with themselves. The men lost all their extra cloth- rng, 3 McClellan saddles and bridles, 2horses, 2 full sets flags, 1 saber, 3 pistols, 2 telescopes, 2 marine glasses, and 2 kites, none of which have beeii recovered. Lieutenant iRoe and myself rode to Clear Spring, about 3 miles from the station, and there reported to Captain Russell, of the First Mary- land Cavalry. He immediately sent our dispatch to General Kenly, at Wilhiainsport. We then rode to Hagerstown. Previously to this I had sent a man to Lieutenant Spencers station, near Hagerstown, with state- ment of facts. He reported to Lieutenant Spencer about 11 a. in. Lieu- tenant Spencer immediately reported the facts to General Brooks, com- manding at ilagerstown. Lieutenant Roe and myself reached Hagers- town about 2 p. in., when we immediately reported the facts of cross- in g and their l)robable force, with four pieces of artillery, to Generals Franklin and Brooks. We remained at ilagerstown all night. Re- turning to this station the next morning, found everything quiet, and have remained here since, comniunicating with stations at Williamsport and ilagerstown. I have the honor to be, respectfully, yours, W. W. ROWLEY, Acting Signal Officer. 3 R ~YOL XIX, PT I Page 34 34 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. [Inclosure B.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186212 p.m. Capt. B. F. FISHER Gommanding Signal Detachment: The rebel General Stuart; with about 3,000 cavalry and two batteries, took Chambersbnrg this afternoon, and is now trying to return to Vir- ginia. By daylight to-morrow you will have a party at Williamsport, to communicate with Rowley; one on Washington Monument, to corn. municate with Spencer, at Hagerstown; one on Catoctin Ridge, west of Frederick, commanding the valleys on both sides of the ridge, and com- municating with a point as near as is practicable to this camp. Notify Point of Rocks of the facts. All are to look out and instantly report any force of this nature trying to move across the Potomac, Washing- ton Monument reporting to Hagerstown, Rowley reporting to ilagers- town and Williamsport, and stations on Catoctin Ridge reporting near here. Carry out these orders as promptly as possible. Send a party to assist Rowley and ascertain whether he is taken prisoner, as is possible, the enemy being reported as having crossed at the ford near Fairview. Cox is at Hancock, with his division in railroad cars, and will move by rail the instaiit he receives information. Officers will return after forty-eight hours, unless otherwise ordered. By order of Maj. A. J. Myer: WM. S. STRYKER, Fir8t Lieutenant and Adjutant, Signal Corps. [Inclosuro C.] SIGNAL STATION, iliagerstown, Md., October Th, 18622 p. m. ALBERT J. MYER, Signal Officer and Major U. S. Army: SIR: This morning, soon after break of day, a force of the enemys cavalry and artillery, of which we saw at least four regiments of cavalry and two pieces of artillery, crossed the Potomac at or near Dam No. 4, capturing several of our l)iCkCts afl(I several refugees from Virginia. The force then l)roceeded toward the turnpike leading from Fairview, and crossed it about 1 mile beyond Fairview, and proceeded up a dirt road into a valley called Little Cove. The first that we knew of their being in our vicinity was a force of about 20 cavalry appearing in sight, about 20 rods from our station. We immediately abandoned the station, those of us that had oar horses sad- dled. We were obliged to leave everything except our side-arms. We proceeded to Clear Spring, and found that Captain Gary, with his cavalry, had fallen back toward Williamsport, about 3 miles. He had previously called in all his pickets from along the river and canal. Some of his pickets were forced to retire toward Hancock. The cavalry and artil- lery was seen to enter the Little Cove above mentioned. From the Little Cove there are two roads, one of which leads toward Hancock, the other, through a gap in the mountain, to the Clear Spring and Mercers- burg turnpike. What their object or intentions may be is entirely unknown to us. General Coxs division passed Fairview on the road to Hancock between 3 and 5 a. m. He must be aware of the raid, as some of the pickets fell back that way. * * * * * * Page 35 CHAP. XXXI.] STUART S EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 35 The fog was so dense upon the river that we could not see the country about the river where they crossed. W. W. ROWLEY, First Lieut. Twenty-eighth N. IT. Vols., and Actg. Sig. Officer. W. B. ROE, First Lieut. Sixteenth ]Iliich. Vols., and Actg. Sig. Officer. [Inciosure D.] Signal communications received October 12, 1862, and relating to move inents of rebel forces within the lines of the Army of the Potomac. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, 18624.30 a. m. No. 1. All quiet. Lieutenant CAREY. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, 1862. No. 2. It is reported that the rebels have crossed. We can see heavy bodies of troops near llyattstown. Lieutenant CAREY. ELK MOUNTAIN, October 12, 18627.45 a. in. No. 3. As yet no sign. of enemy visible. Lieutenant OWEN. CATOOTIN RIDGE, October 12, [186239.30 a. m. No. 4. Reports of canuon heard in the direction of Sugar Loaf Mountain. Lieutenant WIGGINS. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, [186239.45 a. m. No. 5. The rebels have opened a battery between tbe mouth of the Monocacy and Poolesville, a little west of south. One battery is reply- ing. Lieutenant CAREY. FAIRVIEW, October 12, 186210 a. rn. No. 6. No unusual quantity of smoke at Chambersburg this a. in. Can see a force approaching on the turnpike from Hancock, with train of 10 wagons. No enemy in sight. All quiet. Lientenaut ROWLEY. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, 186211 a. m. No. 7. All that were reported were cavalry, with gray uniforms. Lieutenant CAREY. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, 186211.10 a. in. No. 8. The enemy crossed at south side of Monocacy, and opened a battery. One battery is replying. Lieutenant CAREY. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, 186212.15 p. m. No. 9. There is at least one regiment of the enemys cavalry on this bank of the Potomac, and they are now recrossing that river at about 2 miles the other side of the Monocacy. Lieutenant CAREY Page 36 36 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL SUGAR LoAF, October 12, 186212.30 p. m. No. 10. Yes; have seen them and can still see them crossing from Maryland into Virginia. Lieutenant CAREY. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, 18625 p.m. No. 11. No enemy visible from this point. Lieutenant YATES. POINT OF RocKs, October 12, 18629 p. m. No. 12. We could see the cavalry pickets of the enemy at 5 p. m. opposite Nolands Ferry. At the same time saw a long line of smoke in the vicinity of Leesburg. Lieutenants FORTESCUE and KENDALL. SUGAR LOAF, October 12, [1862]12 p. m. No. 13. All quiet. Lieutenant CAREY. No. 4. Report of Brig. Gen. John R. Kenly, U. S. Army, commanding at Will. iamsport. HEADQUARTERS, TVilliamsport, Md., October 15, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to forward herewith the report of Cap. tam Logan, Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, accompanied with a note from Col. A. Voss, commanding Fifth Cavalry Brigade, in reference to the recent advance into Pennsylvania by the enemys cavalry: - My instructions from your headquarters were to picket and guard the fords from Wilhiamsport to Cherry Run, and, in obedience to your orders, I posted pickets at McCoys Ferry and Cherry Run. That these l)ickets discharged their duty faithfully the report of Captain Logan will. show, for I had information, at 7.30 a. m. Friday, the 10th instant, that the enemy was crossing at McCoys Ferry, sent to me by Capt. William J. Gary, Third Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and Lieut. Col. John G. Johannes, commanding Eighth Regiment Maryland Volunteers, sta- tioned at Cowtons farm. The information thus obtained I immediately forwarded to Major-General Couch, at Downsville, and to Brig. Gen. W. T. II. Brooks, commanding at HagerstOwn. At 8 a. m. same day I dispatched Capt. Charles II. Russell, command- ing Company I, First Maryland Cavalry, out the Clear Spring road, to watch the movements of the enemy, and at 10 a. m. I received a note from Captain Russell, informing me that the enemy were moving toward Mercersbnrg, Pa., which information I also forwarded to Major-General Couch and to Brigadier-General Brooks. The first information (verbal) which I received was that the enemys cavalry and artillery were moving slowly toward Williamsport, and I accordingly made disposition to hold this post. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN R. KENLY, Brigadier- General, Maryland Brig., Gomdg. at William8port. Lieut. Col. OLIVER D. GREENE, A. A. U. and Chief of Staff, Sixth A. C., Hagerstown, Aid Page 37 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 37 No. 5. Report of Capt. Thomas Logan, Twelfth Illinois Cavalry. WILLIAM~PORT, MD., October 15, 1862. COLONEL: In accordance with an order received from your head- quarters, delivered me at 5.30 p. m. on the 7th instant, ordering my command to report to Captain Gary, at Clear Spring, to assist in pick- eting the Potomac River from McCoys Ferry to Cherry Run, I pro- ceeded, leaving Williamsport, Md., at 6 p. m. same day, arriving at Clear Spring at 8 oclock. Reported to Captain Gary and proceeded to the Four Locks, where I found Captain Treichel, in command of two companies of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry. I encamped here for the night, posting a picket on the Cherry Run road, at Green Spring Furnace. Next morning I moved my command to a cross-road half a mile east of Green Spring Furnace, and about 1 mile from McCoys Ferry. I agreed with Captain Treichel to picket the Cherry Run road, from Green Spring Furnace to Cherry Run, a distance of ~k miles, and also to l)icket the draw-bridge over the canal, immediately south of old Fort Fred- erick. On the morning of the 8th I placed my pickets accordingly, placing 4 men at the furnace, where the Cherry Run road crosses the road from the mountain to McCoys Ferry, and only about a half mile from the ferry; 4 men at the bridge before mentioned 4 men on the hill at the school-house, 2 miles from Cherry Run, and 4 men to patrol the road from this point to the ferry or ford, called Cherry Run. My pickets re- mained as above posted during the days and nights of the 8th and 9th instant, nothing occurring worth notice. On the morning of the 10th, at daybreak, by my time 5.30 a. in., I was informed by Mr. Jacques, a citizen living near my reserve, that the enemy were crossing at McCoys Ferry, apparently in force. I imme- diately ordered my reserve to mount, starting a messenger at the same time to Captain Gary, at Clear Spring, and getting my camp equipage and baggage loaded. I started the team to Clear Spring, and was drawn up in line of battle in five minutes. Knowing that the crossing at Mc- Coys Ferry, being below all my pickets, would cut them off, I ordered Sergt. E. N. Pratt to proceed with 3 men, and, if possible, pass the cross- road at the furnace before the enemy occupied the place, gather up all my pickets, and go to Fairview and down the pike to Clear Spring, which he succeeded in doing, not~ however, until 3 p. in., having been cut off and, at one time, surrounded by the enemy. I feel that Sergeant Pratt and the 16 men with him deserve great praise for their courage and dis- cretion. At about 5.40 oclock the enemy fired ten or fifteen shots on my pickets at the furnace without elThct, the pickets falling back on the reserve in good order. The enemy immediately occupied the cross- roads and planted one gun on the hill opposite the furnace, near the store, commanding the cross-roads and the road up to my reserve. On seeing artillery 1 immediately dispatched a second messenger with these facts to Captain Gary. The messenger found, on arriving at Clear Spring, that Captain Gary had fallen back to Dam I~o.5, where he proceeded to report. By this messenger, on his return, II was ordered to fall back by Four Locks to Dam No. 5. Before receiving this order, which was not received until 9 a. in., owing to the distance, I had (believing the force, intended to proceed immediately to Clear Spring) fallen back on the Clear Spring road one-half or three-fourths of a mile Page 38 38 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CLu~. XXXI. still holding the road by my rear guard, to within 400 yards of the fur- nace. At one time they made an advance on my rear guard, and were fired on by them, killing 1 man and wounding 1 horse. They returned the fire without effect, when they fell back to the furnace, evidently not wishing to become engaged. I occupied the ground until 9 oclock, looking on their movements; saw their column; estimated their number at 2,500 cavalry; saw eight pieces of artillery, a number of army wagons, and a few ambulances. Fitiding the enemy did not wish to approach Clear Spring by the road I was occupying, I fell back to Clear Spring, about 1 p. m. I found by this time that the advance of the column had arrived at a point 3 miles north of Clear Spring, taking the Mercersbnrg road. I immediately placed pickets on all the roads north of Clear Spring, occupying the l)lace until 5 p. in., when, by order of Captain Gary, I fell back on the Williamsport road to within 2~ miles of Williainsport, placing pickets on the road to Cowtons farm, where I remained until after midnight, when I was relieved by Company C, of the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry. I must say that, without a single exception, the men of my command behaved admirably, ready all day to do any duty asked of them; and, notwithstanding we mounted in the morning without breakfast, and re- mained in the saddle until midnight. without eating, there was no murmur. Nothing further occurred worthy of notice except that, by the accidental discharge of a carbine, one of my horses was seriously wounded. Your obedient servant, THOMAS LOGAN, Captain Conpany U, Twelfth illinois Cavalry. Col. A. ~foss, Twelfth illinois ~Javalry, ~Jomdg. E~fth Uqvalry Brigade. No. 6. Report of Brig. Gen. Alfred Pleasonton, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Camp near Knoxville, Aid., October 13, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the movements of my com- mand in pursuit of the rebels who recently made a raid to Chambers- burg, Pa. On Saturday morning [October ii], at 4 oclock, I received my orders to start with my command, and soon after I was en route to Hagers- town, where I arrived at about 11 a. m. Receiving information there that the rebels were moving in the direction of Mercersburg, I started with my command toward Clear Spring, on the Hancock road, to inter- cept them, and had proceeded some 4 miles when I was ordered to halt, by dispatch from headquarters, and await further orders. About 1.30 p. in. I received orders to move to Mechaniestown, via Cavetown and Harmons Gap, sending patrols to Emmittsburg and Get- tysburg to obtain information of the enemy. I executed these orders, and arrived at Mechanicstown about 8.30 p. in., from which point I sent ont scouts in the direction of Emmittsburg, Taneytown, Middleburg, and Graceham, and picketing all the roads in that vicinity. At 12.30 a. in. my scouts in the direction of Middleburg reported that the rebel cavalry, under Stuart, had passed through a small town, called Middletown, some 5 miles to the east of Mechanicstown, one hou Page 39 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 39 before that time, taking a private road to Woodsborough, to which place they said they were going, and from thence to Liberty, on the road to the mouth of the IXionocacy. They had traveled at a trot, aiid were continuing to do so. As soon as I received this information I started immediately for the mouth of the Monocacy, via Frederick City, passing through the latter about 5 oclock in the morning, and reaching the Monocacy about 8 a. in. Upon my arrival I found some 400 or 500 in- fantry guarding the canal aqueduct, and picketing the roads and fords in the vicinity. They told me that they had not seen or heard anything of the enemy. I immediately crossed the Monocacy with the portiou of my command that had come up, viz, a part of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, a part of the rihird Indiana Cavalry, and two guns of Pen- ningtons battery, and sent forward a company on the Barnesville road to reconnoiter that place, while the maiu column should move in the direction of Poolesville, to take up a position most suitable for covering the fords in that vicinity. My advance squadron had not proceeded more than 1~ miles from the Monocacy when they discovered a body of cavalry moving toward them, dressed in the uniform of United States soldiers. The officer in corn- inand of the squadron made signal in a friendly way, which was re- turned, and the parties approached within a short distance of each other, when the officer commanding the opposite party ordered his men to charge. They were received by a volley from the carbines of ihy men, and some skirmishing took place, when the enemy brought up a superior force and opened with a couple of guns, which forced my men to retire. On seeing this, the two guns of Penningtons battery were brought into l)osition and opened a brisk fire npon the enemy, which checked his advance. At this time my command was not more than 400 strong, and I was compelled to confine my operations to holding the enemy in check until re-enforcements should arrive. I took four small companies of the in- fantry I found at the mouth of the Monocacy to support the two guns, and sent one company to assist my cavalry in front iii keeping back the enemys dismounted skirmishers. This condition of things lasted for about two hours, when, the remainder of Penningtons battery coming up, it was put in position and soon drove oft the enemys guns. At the same time I sent a portion of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, that had come up with the remainder of Penningtons battery, down the tow- l)ath of the canal, to prevent the enemy from crossing at any point below. They discovered that the enemy had in position at Whites Ford two guns on this, amid at least one gun on the other side of the river, all of which could sweep the tow-path and prevent the cavalry from proceeding. On hearing this, I took all the infantry from the mouth of the Monocacy, except two companies, and made a general advance on the enemy, who rapidly retreated on Whites Ford, keeping up a fire on our advance, with his guns covering his rear. By this time, the horses in Penningtons battery were so thoroughly exhausted as to be unable to move the guns up the steep hills on the road the enemy took, and in many instances we were obliged to dis- mount and push them up by hand. This rendered our movement so slow that the enemy had timc to cross the river without further moles- tation, and nothing further occurred beyond his throwing a few shots at us after he had crossed, which I did not think worth while to reply to. This was at 1.30 p. in. It was at this time that General Ward reported to me, from General Stonemans (hivisiOn, with a brigade of infantry, a regiment of cavalry, and a section of artillery. I told him that his command could be of n Page 40 40 OPE1~ATIONS IN N. VA., tV; VA., MD., ANt~ PA. tOHAP. Xkxt use, as the enemy bad then crossed the river. These are the only troops that I know of that were in that vicinity, and this was the first intima- tion I received that any troops were endeavoring to assist me to cap~ ture the rebels; and this was too late to be of any assistance to me. I succeeded in preventing the enemy from crossing at the mouth of the Monocacy, and drove him to Whites Ford, 3 miles below. Had Whites Ford been occupied by any force of ours, previous to the time of the occupation by the enemy, the capture of Stuarts whole force would have been certain and inevitable; but with my small force (which did not exceed one-fourth of the enemys) it was not practicable for me to occupy that ford while the enemy was in my front. In conclusion~ I would say that my force had marched, in the twenty- four hours previous to the fight, upward of 78 miles, and had crossed the Blue Ridge over a very rugged, rough, and rocky road, which crippled up a great many of my horses, and, in consequence, in coming up with the enemy my command was not well closed up, and many (otherwise efficient men) were unable to join their companies before the enemy had crossed the river. It is with great pleasure that I testify to the willingness with which the officers and men supported all the fatigues and hardships of this movement. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac. No. 7. Report of Brig. Gen. William W. Averell, U. S. Army, commanding Pir8t Cavalry Brigade. HDQRS. FIRST CAVALRY BRIG., ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, Near Downsville, Md., October 14, 18629 p. m. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the return of my brigade to this place. My report should be made by telegraph, via ilagerstown, as directed, but I think this the most expeditious. Your dispatch of 2 p. m. yesterday is just received. Having marched from McConnellsburg, in Fulton County, through Franklin County, to- day without seeing any rebels, I am inclined to believe that the report of Governor Curtin is based upon unreliable information. While at Green Spring I endeavored to establish a line of pickets from New Creek to Cherry Run, which could not fail to furnish the head- quarters of the Army of the Potomac with the earliest and most reliable information of the movements of the rebels along the Upper Potomac. At Mercersburg, about noon to-day, it was reported to me officially, by an officer of the Eighth New York, that the rebels were crossing at or near McCoys Ferry. I turned from my intended line of march with the brigade, and sent an officer to Clear Spring, who reported that there was no movement of the rebels in that vicinity. When I left Green Spring (Saturday, 11th, 3 a. in.) there were no rebels west of the Great Cacapon Mountains and east of Floyds forces, except light cavalry parties. That 30,000 could have crossed this side of Cumberland without immediate uotice being seiit to you from the troops along the line, I believe impossible. From prisoners taken, it was learned that the rebels were aware of m Page 41 cHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDItION INTO MD. AND t~A. 41 position and strength at Green Spring. Everything, except Imbodens force of 800, and 1,500 mounted infantry, was withdrawn from Spring- field, Ilomney, and the country in my front. Imboden went to Wardens- yule, 40 miles away, and nothing but a few saucy pickets could be found. The recent raid, no doubt, was made with a full knowledge of the posi- tion of our cavalry forces. My march has been about 200 miles; the first 55 miles in twenty- eight hours, the longest march, I believe, with artillery, that has been made recently. My brigade is in need of a little rest, and a day or two is desired to organize a small pack-mule train for its use. During the recent marches no wagons or pack-animals have been used by my command. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General, Volunteers. Brigadier-General MARCY, Chief of Staff. No. 8. Report of Col. Richard II. Rush, Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH PENNSYLYKNIA CAVALRY, Camp near Frederick, Md., October 13, 1802. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, on Saturday morning, at 6.30 oclock, your note, requiring nie to scout the country north of Fred- erick, to gain intelligence of the force and movements of Stuarts cav- alry, was at once executed by my sending four small companies (140 men) toward Emmittsburg and Gettysburg. They left my camp by 8 a. m. No information or rumors of the enemy could be obtained by them between this place and Emmittsburg, which point they reached at 4 p. m. They then pushed on toward Gettysburg, scouting well to their left, and had not left Emmittsburg an hour when information was brought them from the rear that the advance guard (about 400 strong) of the rebels had charged into Emmittsburg and held the place. The rebels threw out pickets and covered all the roads abont Emmittsbnrg, thus entirely cutting off all communication between my pickets and myself. All the couriers sent to me, to apprise mc of the presence of the rebels, were turned back until after midnight. At 3 p. m. on the 11th I received a telegraphic order from General Marcy to send one squadron at once to Middletown, to picket and scout the valley northward. This was at once done, but no important report or information was received from them. At 6.30 p. m. on the 11th your note of 2.30 p. m. of the 11th was re- ceived, directing me to extend my scouts toward Gettysburg, & c., and informing me that Stuart had left Chambersburg in the morning on the Gettysburg road; also that General Pleasonton was to be at Mechan- icstown, and to communicate .with him, & c., and to call on the First Maine Cavalry if I wanted more force, & c. Rumors from Frederick reaching me at about 7 p. m. that the rebels were reported to be at or near Emmittsburg, and knowing that General Pleasonton would cover the pike through Mechanicstown, I at once called on Colonel Allen, of the First Maine Cavalry, for one company, and sent my only remaining company, these two companies to proceed Page 42 42 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., A ND PA. [CHAP. XXXt one to Woodsborough and one to Johnsville, and to cover the line of country with scouts from the vicinity of Creagerstown, Woodsborough, New Windsor, and toward Westminster, and to communicate any infor- mation to General Pleasonton and myself. As my company, ordered to Woodsborough, entered the town at 10.30 p. in., they found the head of the rebel column just passing through and taking the road to Liberty. This information was communicated to me at 12 lni(lIliglLt, with information that it had also been sent to Gen- eneral Pleasonton, at Mechanicsto~vi. This information being soon confirmed, that the rebel column was all passing toward Liberty, I at oiice sent a message and dispatch to General Marcy an(I yourself to that effect. A large portion of the rebel col 11 run Ii alted between Woodsboron gh and Liberty, to feed and get information of our forces. Their rear guard did not leave Liberty until 7 a. m. of the 12th. I had no force whatever left me to follow their rear, or in auiy way to harass their march. I have no casualties to report in my regiment. I would es~)eciaily commend to your notice Corpi. John An ders, of Coin - pany D, regiment of Lancers, for gallantry on scout at XVoodsborough. lie dismounted and entered the town on foot, in disguise, while the rebel column was passing; talked freely with their meu ; was snsl)ected and detained, and escaped anti r~joincd me soon after daylight, bringing most valuable information; also Private Joseph Dougherty, of the same com- pany and regiment, for gallantry in dashing through Eminittsburg while it was o~cupied by the enemy, in order to carry a message to my com- panies near Gettysburg. I regret very much that this second raid has been so successfully accoml)iishe(I by Stuarts cavalry; but, with the small an(1 crippled force at my disposal near this town (but seven companies, of about 275 men), it has been impossible for me to do more than I have done to check this unfortunate raid. My scouts captnxed 1 prisoner, a very intelligent young man, Jonathan Scott, of the First Virginia Cavalry. lie tells me that the rebel force consisted of the First, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Ninth, and rfenth Virginia Cavalry; the First and Second North Carolina Cavalry; the Cobb Legion, and the Jeff. Davis Legion, and was between 4,000 and 5,000 strong, anti that they had captured and carried off 1,500 horses from Pennsylvania. This prisoner I have turned over to Colonel Allen, at Frederick. Md. He also states that they entered at iDam No. 5, and were to leave at Edwards Ferry. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HICILD. II. liUSfl, Colonel Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Lancers. Brig. Gen. JOHN BUFOED, Chief of Cavalry, Headquarters Army of the Potomac. No 9. Reports of Brig. Gen. George Stoneman, U. S. Army, commanding Division.. HEADQUARTERS, Poolesville, Md.. October 13, 1862. GENERAL: In accordance with instructions from the commanding general, I have the honor to make the following report in regard to the manner in which I have carried out the itistructions communicated t Page 43 CHAP. XXXL) STUAHrI~~S EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 43 me in a dispatch of 1 p. m. on the 11th instant. This dispatch was re- ceived here at 3.30 p. m. of the same day, and reads as follows: GENERAL MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, October 11, 1862. General GEORGE STONEMAN: A force of rebel cavalry, supposed to be about 2,000 strong, crossed into Maryland yesterday, at McCoys Ferry, above Williamsport, staid at Chambersburg last night, and left this morning at 9 oclock, in the direction of Gettysburg. It is possible that they may attempt to recross the river opposite Leesbnrg. The commanding general directs that you keep your cavalry well out on the approaches in the direction of Fred- crick, so as to give you tune to mass your troops at any point where they attempt to cross. General Pleasonton, with a large force of cavalry, is moving to intercept them, and, if they come in your direction, he will probably be near them. We shall have two brigades of infantry at Frederick to-night. Coinmi innicate any movements of the enemy to these headquarters from time to time. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Sta~. Upon the receipt of the above telegram, I immediately sent out cav- alry on all the roads, and stationed the troops as follows: The Third and Fourth Maine, 600 strong (total), were placed at the mouth of the Monocacy River to guard the Potomac in the direction of Point of Rocks; the Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania and Fortieth New York, 700 strong (total), at Whites Ford, and to protect the culvert recently de- stroyed by the rebels, and just completed; the Thirty-ninth Massachu- setts at Edwards Ferry, to guard that part of the river and the pontoon- bridge train; the Tenth Vermont, with a section of artillery, to guard the depot of supplies at the month of Seneca Creek; the reserve, con- sisting of the Thirty-eighth and One hundred and first New York and Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania, 700 strong (total), with a section of artil- lery, and the cavalry not on picket and patrol duties, 250 strong, were stationed at Poolesville, with a view of moving to any point on the cir- cumference of which Poolesville is the center. No mention was made, in any dispatch received, about the enemy haviiig artillery, and I directed the forces stationed at the various points to attack them when- ever seen, as they probably had but little, if any, artillery with them. The line my small force was guarding is about 30 miles along a river that can be forded by all arms at almost any point, with an enemy in front, against which we were guarding, and 2,000 cavalry in rear, liable to cross at ene point as well as another, and whom I was officially in- formed would probably cross in front of Leesburg, if at all. About 9.30 p. m. I received a telegram from Colonel IRuggles, stating that Stuart had said to a paroled prisoner that he intended to recross the river at the mouth of the Monocacy. I did not think this informa- tion sufficient authority to warrant me in exposing the rest of the line and concentrating my whole force at the mouth of the Monocacy. Nothing more was heard from the rebels by me until 9 a. m. of the 12th, when I received two telegrams from Colonel IRuggles, one dated 2.45 and the other 4.30 a. in., placing it beyond a doubt that the enemy were on their way toward the mouth of the Monocacy. I immediately ordered the regiment at Edwards Ferry up the river, and started the reserve, under Brigadier-General Ward, with instructions to push on toward the firing, which had just then begun, in the direction of the Monocacy, and sent back to hurry up the brigade of General Robinson, whom I had written to the night before, instructing him to push on his command as rapidly as possible He was unable to arrive until after the enemy had made good his escape. My cavalry pickets were pushed out to Barnesville and llyattstown, and also in other (lircetions, and gave me information of the movements of the enemy, but not until after the iuformatiou was received by telegraph. I will add that both Ge Page 44 44 OVERA1~IONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [OIIAP. XXXI. eral Ward and others were told by citizens that the enemy was making for a point below Poolesville, and such was the general impression. 1 send a sketch* to illustrate the disposition of the force under my command, and which, under all the circumstances, I consider a judi- cious one, but which was rendered nugatory by the rapidity and uncer- tainty of the enemy~s movements. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding, & c. General S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS, Poolesville, Mid., October 25, 1862. GENERAL: In reply to your communication of the 20th instant, I have the honor to inclose herewith the reports of the officers serving under my command on the 12th. In regard to the first part of your letter, I beg leave to state that, in- stead of the enemy having passed within a short distance of me when I first received an intimation of their approach, they had not arrived within 6 miles of me, and that the point where they crossed the river is but a short distance from the direct route from Frederick to Pooles- ville. The instructions contained in the telegram of General Marcy, chief of staff, on the afternoon of the 11th instant, to mass the troops at any point where the rebels might attempt to cross the river, inyolved more than human efforts and foresight. it is true that the rebels took very nearly the direction indicated in General Marcys dispatch; that is, they came from the direction of Frederick, but they did not attempt to cross the river within 6 or 7 miles of the point indicated (opposite Leesburg) in same dispatch. The statement of General Pleasonton, in his report, that had Whites Ford been occupied by any force of ours previous to the time of the oc- cupation by the enemy, the capture of Stuarts whole force would have been certain and inevitable is simply ridiculous, as the enemy could have crossed at almost any other point as well as there. In conclusion, I beg leave to respectfully request that a court of in- quiry be instituted, to inquire into all the circumstances connected with Stuarts escape from Pennsylvania~ and that the blame, if blame there is, be affixed to the proper persons. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE STONEMAX, Brigadier-General. General S. WILLIAMS, Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac. No. 10. Report of Brig. Gen. J. H. Hobart Ward, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, STONEMANS DIVISION, Camp near Whites Ford, Mid., October 19, 1862. MAJOR: I have the honor to state that on the 11th instant I was * Omitted; unimportant Page 45 CHAP. XXXI.) STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. -AND PA. 45 ordered to report to Major-General McClellan for orders, as brigadier- general. I was assigned to this brigade and ordered to report to General Stoneman. On the 12th instant, and before I could see General Stoneman, three regiments of this brigade, under command of Colonel Staples, Third Maine Volunteers, proceeded from camp at Poolesville, under orders from General Stoneman and marched toward the mouth of the Monocacy River. Learning that the enemy were about to pass through our lines, I proceeded to join the command. About 10 a. in., and at the request of Colonel Staples, I assumed command, and found that the enemy were passing in our front and constantly changing their position, when I received a communication from General Pleasonton to the effect that, with what assistance I could give, the enemy could be intercepted and taken. Not fifteen minutes had elapsed when I reported to General Pleasonton in person, on the field, whose entire command (of artillery and cavalry) was in position, and whose examination, by field-glass, discovered the enemy crossing the Potomac at Whites Ford. General Pleasonton replied to me that it was too late; that nothing could be done. I then asked him if I could not do something. He replied that it was too late; that I should have been there three hours sooner. I immediately reported by staff officer to General Stoneman, who ordered me to apply to General Pleasonton for a force of cavalry, and proceed immediately with my command to cross the river and pursue and capture the enemy. General Pleasonton refused his cavalry per- emptorily, which fact (and concentrating my command at Whites Ford three of my regiments had been under the command of General Pleas- onton during the day) I rei~orted to General Stoneman. The night be- came extremely dark and stormy, and having no cavalry force I was ordered to return to Poolesville. I have the honor to transmit herewith the report of Col. H. G.. Staples, Third Maine Volunteers, who was in command of the brigade during the morning of the 12th instant, having heretofore handed you the report of Colonel Walker, Fourth Maine Volunteers, who was under the command of General Pleasonton, at the mouth of Monocacy River. I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. HOBART WARD, Brigadier- General. Maj. H. W. BREVOORT, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 11. Report of Cot. Thenry G. Staples, Third Maine Infantry. HEADQUARTERS THIRD MAINE REGIMENT, Near Whites Ford, Md., October 18, 1862. General Ward having been ordered to report to General McClellan, on the 10th instant I assumed command of the brigade. On the 11th, about 6 p. in., I received an order from General Stone- man, of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS, Poolesville, Md., October 11, 1862. COLONEL: I inclose you herewith copy of a dispatch just received, for your infor- ination and guidance.* I wish you to send two regiments to the mouth of the Mo- Probably that quoted in Stonemans report, p. 43 Page 46 46 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL nocacy, and three regiments and the section of artillery with you to this point, both to be done as soon as possible. Instruct the commanding officer to keep pickets well out on all the roads leading toward his station, and to attack the enemy and secure the led horses which he may have with him, ~of which, I understand, he has a large number. The men will take three days rations with them, and bring the train up with the command that comes to this point. The other two brigades are on their way up here. Respectfully, & e., your obedient servant, GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier -eneral, Commanding. In compliance with the above orders, the Third and Fourth Maine RegP ments, under command of Colonel Walker, were sent to the mouth of the Monocacy, with written instructions, as per order. The Thirty- eighth and One hundred and first New York and Fifty-seventh Penn. sylvania Regiments, with the section of artillery, were sent to Pooles- yule. The Fortieth New York at this time was on a reconnaissance in Virginia, and the Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Regiment was stationed at Whites Ford. On the return of the Fortieth New York, Colonel Egan was ordered to remain at the camp near Conrads Ferry. Ou Sunday, the 12th instant, I received orders to move out on the Monocacy road, and General Stoneman would join me there. This was in the morning, about 10 oclock, I should judge, as people were or~their way to church. I marched the command on the Monocacy road until we arrived at a road leading to the right. At this point, two citizens rode up and informed me that the enemy were advancing, 3,000 strong, on the road leading from Barnesville to Poolesville. General Ward came up, and I consulted him as to what course to pursue. While in conversation with General Ward, Lieutenant Lee, of the bri- gade staff; informed me that the enemy were in our front. I immediately ordered forward the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Regiment on the right of the road, and the section of artillery to be posted on an elevatiou commanding the enemys position. At this juncture, I received word from General Pleasonton, through Major Pitcher, of the Fourth Maine Regiment, that the enemy were crossing at Whites Ford. While the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Regiment was advancing, I ordered the re- maining two regiments immediately forward. The orders were promptly obeyed. Colonel Duffi6s cavalry during this time was in advance, and halted in the road. I immediately rode forward and ordered Colo- nel Duffid to push on to the enemy as rapidly as possible, and I would support him. While advancing on the road leading from Monocacy roadtoWhitesFordlwas relieved from command byGeneralWard, who ordered me to command the three infantry regiments. ~ HENRY G. STAPLES, Colonel Third Maine Regiment. Capt. C. II. POTTER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Brigade. No. 12. Report of Ijeut. Col. Moses B. Jiakeman, Third Maine infantry. POOLESYILLE, MD., October 13, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to report the movement of the Third Maine Regiment since leaving camp, at Conrads Ferry. On the evening of the 11th instant I moved my regiment, by you Page 47 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 47 order, to the mouth of the Monocacy. On arriving there, by order of Lieutenant-Colonel Carver, Fourth Maine Regiment, I detached two companies, under command of Captain Morgan, to guard the ford and bridge at that point. The remainder of the regiment bivouacked for the night half a mile toward Barnesville. On the morning of the 12th instant, on the arrival of General Pleas- onton, at or about 8 a. in., the picket of the Fourth Maine having dis- covered the enemy, and they opening fire on our forces, I detached four companies, under command of Major Burt, to support a section of Pen- ningtons battery, which had engaged the enemy. Being convinced of their movements, I reported to General Pleasonton that, according to the best of my judgment, they were holding us in check with a section of artillery, while they were passing their column to Whites Ford. Our guns having apparently silenced theirs, the general advanced his forces, when he discovered the enemy still in position, who immediately renewed the attack. By order of the general I then sent two companies, under command of Captain Morgan (whom I had previously relieved from the bridge), forward as skirmishers, to harass their cannoneers, who found a body of rebel cavalry, dismounted and deployed as skirmishers, which retired on their advancing. At this time the remainder of Penningtons battery, four pieces, came up and opened fire, preventing my skirmishers from advancing. After again silencing the enemys guns, of which I am satisfied there was but one, the skirmishers, again advancing and opening fire, compelled the enemys skirmishers to mount and beat a hasty retreat. At this time, about 9 a in., an orderly from Colonel Davis [i], Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, which had been sent down the tow-path of the canal toward Whites Ford, arrived, and reported a section of artillery (rebel) in position at the lock, near the ford, and preventing the cavalry from advancing. By order of tLie general, I then sent one company of my remaining six to that point as skirmishers. Soon after, the general moved his whole force in that direction by telegraph road,, and I, on request from Colonel Davis, advanced with my remaining company, and, taking one from the Aqueduct Bridge, l)roceeded toward Whites Ford by tow-path, and, on meeting Colonel Davis, ascertained that the enemy had crossed. I then returned to the 1\Ionocacy, and soon after received an order to again move the regiment to Whites Ford, where I halted, and in the evening joined the brigade and marched to Pooles- ville, our l)resent camp. Respectfully submitted. MOSES B. LAKEMAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Third Miaine Volunteers. No. 13. Report of Col. Elijah Walker, Fourth Maine 1m~fantry. HEADQUARTERS FOIJRTII MAINE REGIMENT, Poolesville, Md., October 13, 1862. SIR: In compliance with an order from General Stoneinan, through you, I arrived with my regiment at the mouth of the Monocacy Satur- day, October 11, at 8 p. in., at which place the Third Maine Regiment joined me about 9 oclock the same evening. I immediately placed two companies of my regiment at th~ crossing of the Frederick and Barnes Page 48 48 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. yule roads, and one company about 1 mile from the river, on the road to Poolesvifle. Two companies of the Third Maine were placed near the mouth of the river, on the north side. About 8 a. m. Sunday, the 12th, General Pleasontons cavalry, with a section of artillery, arrived, and reported that it was expected that the enemy would attempt the crossing of the river in that vicinity. I immediately sent Major Pitcher, with one additional company, to occupy the Poolesville road, and placed the remaining companies of the Third and Fourth Maine to guard the roads about the mouth of the Monocacy. At 9 a. m. I heard Iiring on the Poolesville road, and soon learned that my pickets were engaging the enemys cavalry. I then ordered forward two companies of the Third Maine as skirmishers on the right of the road, the two companies of the regiment under Major Pitcher being deployed on the left of the road, at the same time ordering one company of the Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Regiment, stationed at the Aqueduct Bridge, to join its regiment at Whites Ford. At this time General Pleasonton made himself known to me, and assumed command, ordering four companies to support his battery. The artillery on both sides soon opened, and continued in action for about half an hour, when General Pleasonton ordered an advance of my force, together with his cavalry, to be followed by the artillery. After the whole force had advanced about a quarter of a mile, the cav- alry returned, and the artillery, which had moved forward but very little, opened fire again, throwing shells, many of which fell in and about my line of skirmishers. The enemy replied with his guns. I im- mediately halted and sent word to the rear, acquainting Genera] Pleas- onton with the facts. The artillery firing on both sides soon ceased and I moved forward with my infantry, followed by a squadron of cav- alry, to the position which had been occupied by the enemys guns, and found the enemy rapidly retiring in the direction of Whites Ford, having planted a gun about three-fourths of a mile from the road, in such position as to enfilade my line of skirmishers as they emerged from the woods. Halting my line, I sent to the general, informing him of the situation, and suggesting that the artillery be brought forward but when General Pleasonton had arrived with artillery and cavalry, the last of the enemy had (lisappeared, together with their gun, in the direction of the river. I understand that time delay in bringing up the re-enforcements was caused by their mistaking a force of ours, coming in the opposite (lirec- tion from Poolesville, for that of the enemy (a misapprehension which was not corrected till I had.sent Major Pitcher with two men to ascer- tain the character of the force). I then proceeded across the field in the direction of Whites Ford, followed by the artillery and cavalry. On arriving in sight of the ford, I found that the enemy had succeeded in crossing the river, and had placed guns in position on the opposite shore, from which they fired a few rounds across and then disappeared. After resting my men for half an hour, I returned to the mouth of the Monocacy, General Pleasonton having informed me that I could return to camp with my command. My pickets captured 1 prisoner and 2 cavalry horses. Major Pitcher had his horse shot at the first fire which was received from the enemy, while in advance, conducting the skirmishers. B. WALKER, Golonel Fourth Maine Volunteers. Capt. (3. II. POTTER, Asst. Adjt. Gen., & cond Brigade, AS1tonenzans Division Page 49 CHAr. XXXI.) STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 49 No. 14. Report of Got. Thomas W. Egan, Fortieth New York Infantry. IIDQRS. FORTIETH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Near Whites Ford, Md., October 19, 1862. I beg leave to submit the following report of the proceedings of my- self and command on Sunday, the 12th instant: On that day my command was greatly exhausted by their long march of 45 miles (the command had been scouting on the other side of the river, in support of a cavalry force) the day previous, and their change of camp from the mouth of the Monocacy. On Sunday morning I was encamped in the woods, near Conrads Ferry, and had received no orders whatever, nor any intimation of the nearness or approach of the enemy. Nevertheless, having heard of their approach at about 10 a. in., I formed my command promptly, without orders, and set out for the river at Conrads Ferry. At about 11 a. m. I received orders from General Stoneirian, through Captain Alexander, to march my command at once to the Monocacy. I started at double.quick, and kept that pace, going along the tow-path to Whites Ford, and then crossed the canal, to gain the hill and coin- inand the ford. But it was too late, and the enemy were out of our reach. Immediately on receiving the news of the approach of the enemy, I dis- l)atched a messenger to General Stonemans headquarters for orders, but received none, and finally started without, as I have stated. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. W. EGAN, Golonet Fortieth New York Volunteers. Lient. W. BANKS, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, & cond Brigade. No. 15. Report of Licut. Got. Edwin P. Bites, Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry. IIDQRS. NINETY-NINTH PENNSYLVANiA VOLUNTEERS, Gamp near Whites Ford, Md., October 19, 1862. SIR: I respectfully present my report of the part taken by the Ninety- ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers in the affair of the 12th instant. I was ordered upon picket duty with my regiment on the morning of the 10th instant, and had my command distributed along the bank of the Potomac River, extending from near Conrads Ferry, on the left, to some 300 yards above Whites Ford, on my right, a distance of about 4 miles. I had two reserves, one at Whites Ford, of three companies, under my own immediate command, and the other about 14 miles lower down, of one company, under command of Captain Moore, at Weedons Ford. The balance of the regiment was posted along the river in small parties at the different picket posts, with the exception of Company A, which company I received orders to send to the mouth of the Monoc- acy, to relieve a company of the IFortieth New Yorli Volunteers, on th~ imight of the 10th instant. 4 R RYOL XIX, PT I Page 50 50 OPEI~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXT. On tlie evening of the 11th instant I received information from Lieu- tenant-Colonel Carver, Fourth Maine Volunteers, brigade field officer of the day, that there was a report that a large body of rebel cavalry had crossed into Maryland at some point above, and was now trying to recross into Virginia. I immediately sent word to the reserve at Weedoiis Ford, and to the pickets along the whole line, and instructed them to be on the alert, ordering them to rally to the nearest reserve, in case of an attack during the night. About 9 oclock the Third and Fourth Maine Regi- ments passed me on their way to the month of the Monocacy. Early on the morning of the 12th instant, I heard picket firing toward the mouth of the Monocacy, and shortly afterward some sharp artillery firing, apparently about 5 miles off, in the direction of the Sugar Loaf Mountain. Of this latter fact I at once advised brigade headquarters, by note, sent by a mounted orderly. About 9 oclock my sentinel, on lookout on the hill behind me, reported a large body of cavalry on his right, advancing toward us. I immediately ascended the hill with my reserve (three companies), and took up a position to completely cover the ford with our rifles, and sent my sergeant-major to collect the pickets of the company on my immediate left, and send them to join me. He was then to proceed down the tow-path to the reserve at XVeedons Ford, and give Captain Moore my instructions to collect all the force on the left and come to my assist- ance. When I arrived at the top of the hill, the enemy were plainly to be seen, distant about 1 mile, apparently about 1,200 or 1,500 strong, and still coming on. Just at this time Lieutenant-Colonel Carver came gal- loping down the tow-path, and called up to me that the rebels were close behind him. I told him that they were in plain view from where I was, and asked him if he had any instructions. He inquired if I could hold the point. I replied that if he would send me up the re- mainder of the regiment I thought I could. He left me and rode down toward Conrads Ferry, with, as I supposed, the intention of hurrying up Captain Moore. The rebel force advanced to within about half a mile, halted, and remained in that position for some half an hour, sending small parties down toward the tow-path. in the mean time I had been joined by Company iD, the company on my immediate left, making my force about 100 men. This company I ordered to skirmish over toward the enenmy and try and ascertain if he had artillery. in about ten minutes they returned and reported two pieces. At this time 1 receive(l a message from Captain Moore that Lieutenant-Colonel Carver had ordered him to remain where he was, instead of joining me. l)irectly upon time return of my skirmishing party, the rebels opened tire upon my position with their artillery, amid a body of cavalry commenced slowly nioving around toward my rear, still makino- 110 attempt to cross. Finding that I was not to be re-enforced, and that if I remained my small force must be cut oft and cal)tured without being able to do any good, I commenced slowly falling back over the hills and ravines, toward Weedons Ford, keepimmo close to the canal. I arrived at the ford a few minutes before Colommel Carver reached there fromn Conrads Ferry, with a small re-enforcement from our old camp, of ai)out 70 men. Under his directions I consolidated them with my regiment (imow together), and advanced again towar(l Whites Ford, deployed as skirmishers, my left resting on the canal; but before reaching XVhites Ford the enemy had accomplished his purpose and effocted his escape. I then joined the Fortieth New York Volunteers, which regiment had followed us up, and marched to the mouth of the Monocacy. Had Lieutenant-Colone Page 51 CHAP. XXXI.] STUART S EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 51 Carver allowed my reserve at Weedons Ford to join me, as I requested, I might probably have held my position until farther re-enforced. Very respectfully, EDWIN IR. BILES, Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Vols. Capt. C. H. POTTER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Wards Brigade. No. 16. Report of General Robert B. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern Virginia. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, October 14, 1862. SIR: The expedition, under General Stuart, to Pennsylvania, which crossed the Potomac on the evening of the 9th instant at McCoys Ford, above Williamsport, will reach their camp to-day. They proceeded through Mercersburg to Chambersburg, where they obtained-from the United States store-houses such supplies as they needed, but were un- able to destroy the railroad bridge over the Conococheague in conse- quence of its being of iron. The shops, & c., of the company were, how- ever, destroyed. Thence he proceeded to Emmittsburg, through Lib- erty, New Market, Hyattstown, Barnesville, to Whites Ford, below the mouth of the Monocacy, making a complete circuit of the enemys posi- tion. On approaching the Potomac he was opposed by the enemys cav- alry, under General Stoneman, but drove them back, and put to flight the infantry stationed on the bluff at Whites Ford to guard the passage. His expedition was eminently successful, and accomplished without other loss than the wounding of 1 man. He obtained many remounts for his cavalry and artillery, and deserves much credit for his prudence and enterprise. From the information he was able to obtain, I am inclined to believe that General McClellan has detached no part of his army eastward~ but on the contrary, has been receiving re-enforcements. his main army is l)osted west of the Blue Ridge range, and stretches from Hagerstown to Rockville, the center resting at Harpers Ferry, with detachments guard- ing the river. They have a large force repairing the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and I should judge from all I can learn that the operation of the Baltimore and Ohio [Rail]road from Harpers Ferry west is viewed by them as an object of great importance, and that efforts will be made to repair it. I am breaking up the Harpers Ferry and Winchester [Rail]road to increase the obstacles to their advance up the Shenandoah Valley. The iron would be very useful to the roads farther south, and the flat iron might be used for Government purposes, but I have no means of sending it away. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, RE.LEE, General. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War, Richmond, Va. P. 5.h send you a copy of a Harrisburg and Baltimore paper, which may imiterest you. The former is of that class which the enemy do not permit to come within their lines. R.E.L Page 52 52 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL No. 17. Report of ilIaj. Gen. J. E. B. iStuart, 0. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, October 14, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, oii the 9th instant, in corn. pliance with instructions from the commanding general Army of North- ern Virginia, I proceeded on an expedition into Pennsylvania with a cav- alry force of 1,800 and four pieces of horse artillery, under command of Brigadier-General Hampton and Cols. W. II. F. Lee and Jones. This force rendezvoused at Darkesville at 12 in., and marched thence to the vicinity of Hedgesville, where it encamped for the night. At daylight next morning, October 10, I crossed the Potomac at Mc- Coys (between Williamsport and Hancock) with some little opposition, capturing two or three horses of enemys pickets. We were told here by citizens that a large force had encamped the night before at Clear Spring, and were supposed to be en route to Cumberland. We proceeded northward until we reached the turnpike leading from Hagerstown to Hancock (known as the National road). Here a signal station on the mountain and most of the party, with their flags and apparatus, were surprised and captured, and also 8 or 10 prisoners of war, from whom, as well as from citizens, I found that the large force alluded to had crossed but an hour ahead of me toward Cumberland, and consisted of six regiments of Ohio troops and two batteries, under General Cox, and were en route via Cumberland for the Kanawlia. I sent back this intel- hgence at once to the commanding general. Striking directly across the National road, I proceeded in the direction of Mercersburg, Pa., which point was reached about 12 m. I was extremely anxious to reach Hagerstown, where large supplies were stored, but was satisfied, from reliable information, that the notice the enemy had of my approach and the proximity of his forces would enable him to prevent my capturing it. I therecore turned toward Chambersburg. I did not reach this point until after dark, in a rain. I did not deem it safe to defer the attack until morning, nor was it proper to attack a place fall of women and children without summoning it first to surrender. I accordingly sent in a flag of truce, and found no military or civil authority in the place, but some prominent citizens who met the officer were notified that the place would be occupied, and, it any resistance were made, the place would be shelled in three minutes. Brig. Gen. Wade Hamptons command, being in advance, took possession of the place, and I appointed him mil- tary governor of the city. No incidents occurred during the night, dur- ing which it rained continuously. The officials all fled the town on our approach, and no one could be found who would admit that he held office in the place. About 275 sick and wounded in hospital were paroled. During the day a large number of horses of citizens were seized and brought along. The wires were cut, and railroad obstructed, and Colo- nel Jones command was sent up the railroad toward Harrisburg to de- stroy a trestle-work a few miles off. He, however, reported that it was constructed of iron, and he could imot destroy it. Next morning it was ascertained that a large number of small-arms and munitions of war were stored about the railroad buildings, all of which that could not be easily brought away were destroyed, consisting of about 5,000 new muskets, pistols, sabers, ammunition also a larg Page 53 ChAr. ~XIj STUART S EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND I~A. assortment of army clothing. The extensive machine-shops and depot buildIngs of the railroad and several trains of loaded cars were entirely destroyed. From Chambersburg, II decided, after mature consideration, to strike for the vicinity of Leesburg as the best route of return, partic- ularly as Coxs command would have rendered the direction of Cum- berland, full of mountain gorges, particularly hazardous. The route selected was through an open country. Of coursc I left nothing undone to prevent the inhabitants from detecting my real route and. object. I started directly toward Gettysjurg, but, having passed the Blue Ridge, turned back toward flagerstown for 6 or 8 miles, and then crossed to Maryland, by Emmittsburg, where, as we passed, we were hailed by the inhabitants with the most enthusiastic demonstrations of joy. A scout- ing party of 150 lancers had just passed toward Gettysburg, and I re- gretted exceedingly that iuy march did not admit of the delay necessary to catch them. Taking the road toward Frederick, we intercepted dis- patches from Colonel Rush (lancers) to the commander of the scout, which satisfied me that our whereabouts was still a problem to the en- emy. Before reaching Frederick I crossed the Monocacy, continued the march through the night, via Liberty, New Market, Monrovia, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, where we cut the telegraph wires and ob- structed the railroad. We reached, at daylight, llyattstown, on McClel- lans line of wagon communication with Washington, but we found only a few wagons to capture, and pushed on to Barnesville, which we found just vacated by a company of the enemys cavalry. We had here cor- roborated what we had heard before, that Stoneman had between 4,000 and 5,000 troops about Poolesville and guarding the river fords. I started directly for Poolesville, but, instead of marching upon that point, avoided it by a march through the woods, leaving it 2 or 3 miles to my left, and getting into the road from Poolesville to the mouth of the Monocacy. Guarding well my flanks and rear, I pushed boldly forward, meeting the head of the enemys column going toward Poolesville. I ordered the charge, which was responded to in handsome style by the advance squadron (Irvings), of Lees brigade, which drove back the en- emys cavalry upon the column of infantry advancing to occupy the crest froni which the cavalry were driven. Quick as thought, Lees sharp- shooters sprung to the ground, and, engaging the infantry skirmishers, held them in check until the artillery in advance came up, which, under the gallant Pelham, drove back the enemys force to his batteries be- yond the Monocacy, between which and our solitary gun quite a spirited fire continued for some time. This answered, in connection with the high crest occupied by our piece, to screen entirely my real movement quickly to the left, making a bold and rapid strike for Whites Ford, to force my way across before the enemy at Poolesyille and Monocacy could be aware of my design. Although delayed somewhat by about 200 in- fantry strongly posted in the cliffs over the ford, yet they yielded to the moral effect oC a few shells before engaging our sharpshooters, and the crossing of the canal (now dry) and river was eff~cted with all the pre- cision of passing a defile on drill, a section of artillery being sent with the advance, and placed in position on the Loudoun side, another piece on the Maryland height, while Pelham continued to occupy the atten- tion of the enemy with the other, withdrawing from position to position until his piece was ordered to cross. The enemy was marching from Poolesville, in the mean time, but came up in line of battle on the Mary- land bank only to receive a thundering salutation, with evident effect, from our guns on this side. I lost not a man killed on the expedition, and only a few slight wounds Page 54 54 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [OIIAI?. XX~t The enemys loss is not known, but Pelhams one gun compelled the enemys battery to change its position three times. The remainder of the march was destitute of interest. The conduct of the command and their behavior toward the inhabitants is worthy of the highest praise; a few individual cases only were exceptions in this particular. Brigadier-General Hampton and Colonels Lee, Jones, Wickham, and Butler, and the officers and men under their command, are entitled to my lasting gratitude for their coolness in danger and cheerful obedience to orders. Unoffending persons were treated with civility, and the in- habitants were generous in proffers of provisions on the march. We seized and brought over a large number of horses, the property of citi- zens of the United States. The valuable information obtained in this reconnaissance as to the distribution of the enemy~s force was commu- nicated orally to the commanding general, and need not be here repeated. A number of public functionaries and prominent citizens were taken cal)tives and brought over as hostages for our own unoffending citizens, whom the enemy has torn from their homes and confined in dungeons in the North. One or two of my men lost their way, and are probably in the hands of the enemy. The results of this expedition, in a moral and political point of view, can hardly be estimated, and the consternation among property holders in Pennsylvania beggars description. 1 am specially indebted to Capt. B. S. White (C. S. Cavalry) and to Messrs. Hugh Logan and Harbaugh, whose skillful guidance was of im- mense service to me. My staff are entitled to my thaiiks for untiring energy in the discharge of their duties. I inclose a map* of the expedition, drawn by Capt. William W. Black- ford, to accompany this report; also a copy of orders enforced during the march. Believing that the hand of God was clearly manifested in the signal (lehiverance of my command from danger, and the crowning success attending it, I ascribe to Him the praise, the honor, and the glory. I have the honor to be, ni ost respectfully, your obedient servant, J. E. B. STUART, Major- General, Commanding Cavalry. Col. R. H. CHILTON, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army Northern Virginia. [fildorserneut.] HDQRS. I)EPARTMENT OF NORThERN VIRGINIA, October 18, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: GENERAL: In forwarding the report of Major-General Stuart of his expedition into Pennsylvania, I take occasion to express to the Depart- mnent my sense of the boldness, judgment, and prudence he displayed in its execution, and cordially join with him in his comnniendation of the couduct and endurance of the brave men lie commanded. To his skill and their fortitude under the guidance of an overruling Providence, is their success due. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant, Ii. E. LEE, General. To appear in Atlas Page 55 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 55 [Thelosures.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Camp near iVinchester, Va., October 8, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. E. B. STUART, Commanding Cavalry, & c.: GENERAL: An expedition into Maryland with a detachment of cavalry, if it can be successfully executed, is at this time desirable. You will, therefore, form a detachment of from 1,200 to 1,500 well-mounted men, suitable for such an expedition, and, should the information from your scouts lead you to suppose that your movement can be concealed from bodies of the enemy that would be able to resist it, you are desired to cross the Potomac above Williamsport, leave Hagerstown and Green- castle on your right, and proceed to the rear of Chambersbarg and en- deavor to destroy the railroad bridge over the branch of the Conoco- cheague. Any other damage that you can inflict upon the enemy or his means of transl)ortation you will also execute. You are desired to gain all information of the positi& n, force, and probable intention of the enemy which you can, and in your progress into Pennsylvania you will take measures to inform yourself of the various routes that you may take on your return to Virginia. To keep your movement secret, it will be necessary for you to arrest all citizens that may give information to the enemy, and should you meet with citizens of Pennsylvania holding State or Government offices, it will be desirable, if convenient, to bring them with you, that they may be used as hostages, or the means of exchanges, for our own citizens that have been carried off by the enemy. Such persons will, of course, be treated with all the respect and consideration that circumstances will admit. Should it be in your power to supply yourself with horses or other necessary articles on the list of legal captures, you are authorized to do so. Having accomplished your errand, you will rejoin this army as soon as 1)racticable. Reliance is placed upon your skill and judgment in the successful execution of this plan, and it is not intended or desired that you should jeopardize the safety of your command, or go farther than your good judgment and prudence may dictate. Colonel Imboden has been desired to attract the attention of the enemy toward Cumberland, so that the river between that point and where you may recross may be less guarded. You will, of course, keep out your scouts to give you information, and take every other precaution to secure the success and safety of the expedition. Should you be led so far east as to make it better, in your opinion, to continue around to the Potomac, you will have to cross the river in the vicinity of Leesburg. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, It. E. LEE, General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, October 9, 1862. SOLD1ERS: You are about to engage in an enterprise which, to insure success, imperatively demands at your hands coolness, decision, and bravery; implicit obedience to orders without question or cavil, and the strictest order and sobriety on the march and in bivouac. The des- tination and extent of this expedition had better be kept to myself tha Page 56 56 OPEI~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. known to you. Suffice it to say, that with the hearty co-operation of officers and men I have not a doubt of its success.~a success which will reflect credit in the highest degree upon your arms. The orders which are herewith published for your government are absolutely necessary, and must be rigidly enforced. 5. E. B. STUART, Major- General, Gommanding. ORDERS, IIEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, No. 13. October 9, 1862 During the expedition into the enemys country on which this coin- mand is about to engage, brigade commanders will make arrangements for seizing horses, the property of citizens of the United States, and all other property subject to legal capture, provided, that in no case will any species of J)ropert.y be taken except by authority, given in person or in writing, of the commander of brigade, regiment, or captain of company in the absence of his superior officers. In all cases, a simple receipt will be given to the effect that the article is seized for the use of the Con- federate States, giving place, (late, and name of owner, in order to en- able the individual to have recourse upon his Government for damage. Individual plunder for private use is positively forbidden, and every instance must be punished in the severest manner, for an army of plun- (lerers consummates its own destruction. The capture of anything will not give the captor any individual claim, and all horses and equipments; will be kept to be apportioned u b - the entire division. , pon the return of the expedition, throudi Brigade commanders will arrange to have one-third of their respective commands engaged in leading horses, provided enough can be procured, each man linking, so as to lead three horses, the led horses being habit- ually in the center of the brigade, and the remaining two-thirds will keep at all times prepared for action. The attack, when made, must be vigorous and overwhelming, giving the enemy no time to collect, reconnoiter, or consider anything except his best means of flight. All persons found in transit must be detained, subject to the orders of division provost-marshal, to prevent information reaching the enemy. As a measure of justice to our many good citizens who, without crime, have been taken from their homes and kept by the enemy in prison, all public functionaries, such as magistrates, postmasters, sheriffs, & c., will be seized as prisoners. They will be kindly treated and kept as hostages for our own. No straggling from the route of march or bivouac for the purpose of obtaining provisions, & c., will be permitted in any case, the commissaries and quartermasters being required to obtain and furnish all such sup- plies in bulk as may be necessary. So much of this order as authorizes seizures of persons and property will not take effect until the command crosses the Pennsylvania line. The utmost activity is enjoined upon the detachments procuring horses, and unceasing vigilance upon the entire command. Maj. J. T. W. ilairston is hereby appointed division provost-marshal.. By command of Maj. Gen. 5. E. B. Stuart: It. CHANNING PRICE, rirst Lieutenant and Aide-dc-Camp Page 57 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 57 No. 18. Report of Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, C. ~3. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade. MARTINSBURG, W. VA., October 25, 1862. MAJOR: In obedience to orders from Major-General Stuart, I pro- ceeded, on October 9, with 175 men from the Secohd Regiment South Carolina Cavalry, under command of Col. M. C. Butler; the same num- ber from the First North Carolina Regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel [J. B.] Gordon; 150 from the Tenth Virginia Regiment, under Major [J. T.] Rosser, and 150 from the Phillips Legion, under Captain Dun- lapin all, 650 mento the neighborhood of McCoys Ferry, on the Potomac, where I halted the command soon after nightfall. Having received orders to cross the river at daylight the next morning, I detailed 25 dismounted , placing them under the command of Lieuten- ant [II. H.] Phillips, Tenth Virginia, and stationed them on the bank of the river above the ferry at a point I had selected for this squad to cross over. At 3 a. in. Lieutenant Phillips took his men over, wading the river. His orders were to attack any force he might find on picket, and Colo- nel Butler, with his comman(l, was to dash across the river as soon as the attack was made on the opposite side. This plan was most success- fully carried out, Lieutenant Phillips attacking the pickets of the enemy, (Iriving them in after wounding 1, and capturing several horses. As soon as possession of the ford was obtained, my brigade, accompanied by a section of the Washington lloyse Artillery, under command of Cap- tam Hart, passed over the river and struck out for the National turn- pike. As my advance guard reached this road, they fell in with a few of the enemy, who belonged to a large column of infantry which had re- cently passed up the pike. Capturing these (about 10), I semit a party to endeavor to take the signal officers who were near that point. The officers escaped, leaving their flags, glasses, and tents, which were taken by my men. The brigade then moved on throu~h the narrow strip of Maryland into Pennsylvania, and made direct for Mercersbnrg. This we entered without opposition, and, passing through, continued our march toward Chambersburg, taking in our route the villages of Bridgeport, Clay Lick, and Saint Thomas. At the latter a few shots were fired by some of the Home Guard, who were taken prisoners. Leaving this place about 5 p. in., we pushed on toward Chambersburg, in the hope of re acli- ing that city before dark but this could not be accomplished, and when we discovered the lights of the town it w~s so dark that no reconnais- sance could be made. Not being able to ascertain if there were any troops in the place, and having heard that somne were there, I deemed it prudent to demand the surrender of the town before taking my command into it. Placing the guns then in position to command the place, I dis- patched Lieutenant [~I2. 0.1 Lee, Second South Carolina Cavalry Regi- ment, with an escort of 25 men, to demand that the town should be given up. In reply to this summons three citizens, on the part of the citizens at large, came forward to ask the terms proposed. I demanded the uncon- ditional surrender of the town, assuring them at the same time that pri- vate persons should be protected and private property unmolested, except such as should be needed for the usc of our armm~y. These terms being agreed on, I moved the brigade into the city about 8 p. in., and immediately made dispositions to establish a rigid provost guard. This guard was placed nuder the command of Captain [J. P.] Macfle, Second South Carolina Cavalry Regiment, and I am happy to say that good order was maintained during the whole of our stay in the city Page 58 58 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. On Saturday morning, the brigade was ordered to bring up the rear and to destroy such public stores as could not be removed. Captain Cowles, First North Carolina, was detailed to burn the railroad depot and a store in which a large supply of arms was found. As soon as the brigade left the town, Captain [W. H. II.] Cowles fired the depot, de. stroying a very large amount of arms, ammunition, clothing, & c. Many revolvers were taken by the men and quite a large amount of clothing brought off. Following in the rear of the division, no matters of interest occurred during the march of Saturday and Saturday night. On Sunday morning, when I reached Barnesville, orders were sent from General Stuart that I should place a gun in position to command the road from Poolesville, while the other gun, with two of my regi- meuts, was sent to the front. The pickets of the enemy appeared in Barnesville while I held this position, but no advance was made on me. The firing in front had been going on for some time, when I was ordered up. Moving rapidly toward the river, I sent the guim that was with me to the ford, while I placed the South Carolina regiment and Phillips Legion so as to cover our march to the river. As soon as the two bri. gades in advance of me, together with all the led horses and wagons, had crossed the river, General Stuart ordered me to put my command across. We were under the fire of the artillery of the enemy while their sharpshooters were engaging mine. Placing one gun so as to command all the approaches to the ford, and calling in my skirmishers, I moved my column to the river and commenced the crossing. Large bodies of the enemy (infantry and cavalry) appeared in my rear, but were held in check by the gun I had put in position and my rear guard. As soon as my leading regiment had crossed, I sent the gun over under cover of a fire from one of the guns of Lees artillery, and brought my rear guard down to I)rotect the crossing of this last-mentioned gun. All passed over in perfect safety and without the slightest confusion. Not a man or a horse was lost, and the passage of the whole command was made rapidly and quietly. About 290 horses were brought over by my bri- gade and about 60 of my own horses left, broken down. I was most ably aided during this expedition by my officers wh conduct of my men met my entire approbation. ile the Besides the officers commanding regiments whom I have named as having assisted me so materially, I beg to commend the conduct of Cap- tain Macfie as provost-marshal, and that of Captain Cowles, who, after destroying the stores in Chambersburg, acted with his company as a rear guard until we had crossed th~ Potomac, rendering in this position most important services. Lieutenant Phillips, who first crossed the river into Maryland, con- ducted the affair most successfully and behaved with great gallantry. On this as on every other occasion the members of my staffCaptain [T. G.] Barker and Lieutenant Hamiltondischarged their duties ad- mirably and assisted me greatly. Totheofficersandmenofmycommandlhaveonlypraisetobestow, for all deserved it. Hoping that they have been fortunate enough to obtain that of the general commanding, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WADE HAMPTON, Major F~TznuGn, Brigadier- General. Assistant Adjutant- General. P.~ S.I should mention that about 280 wounded men were found i Page 59 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 59 Chambersburg and paroled. The report of Captain Cowles as to the destruction of arnis accompanies this.* Captain Macfie estimates the number of muskets burned at not less than 5,000. W. H. No. 19. Correspondence and orders relating to movements of the Union forces. WASHINGTON, D.C., October 10, 18629.10 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Harpers Ferry, Va.: A rebel raid has been made into Pennsylvania to-day, and Chambers- burg captured. Not a man should be permitted to return to Virginia. Use any troops in Maryland or Pennsylvania against them. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186210 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Every disposition has been made to cut off the retreat of the enemys cavalry, that to-day made a raid into Maryland and Pennsylvania. CTEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, (Jomman ding. GREEN SPRING, VA., October 10, 18622 p. m. Brigadier-General MARCY, Chief of & aff, Army of the Potomac: iM~jor Linton reports from Cherry Run that the rebels are crossing into Maryland at McCoys Ferry. A refugee reports the force at 16,000, probably exaggerated. I have directed Major Linton to ascertain the strength and composition of the force. Reports to the same effect come from Hancock. Coxs brigade will be got off from there to-night if nothing happens to the road. I have a line of cavalry pickets nearly completed, extending from New Creek to Cherry Run, from McReynolds command, and from McCoys Ferry to Falling Waters, from my own. On the other side, I have scouts hovering about Imboden, to whom I shall turn my attention as soon as I can get the picket lines well ex- tended. WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. MCCLELLANS, October 10, 18626.15 p. m. Colonel AVERELL, Green ~Spring, Va.: Your telegram received. General Franklin has been advised of the contents of your dispatch, and will act according to the emergencies. Do not fail to report promptly the result of Major Lintons examination of the strength and condition of the enemys force. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of & aff. Not found Page 60 60 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXt GREEN SPRING, VA., October 10, 18627 p. m. Brigadier-General MARCY, Chief of Staff; Major Linton reports as follows: Lieutenant Boyle has just returned. He went to Fairview, and then to Furnace, within 1 mile of McCoys Ferry. He recovered one of the flags of the Signal Corps. He reports that, from various sources, all coinciding, it appears that four regiments of cavalry, with four pieces of artillery, crossed at McCoys Ferry this morning, and xvent straight to the pike, which they crossed at Klines, inquiring the road to Penn- sylvania. Two miles from the pike they turned to the right, along a road which would lead them back to the pike between Hagerstown and Clear Spring. It was said to be Stuarts cavalry, and was generally estimated from 3,000 to 4,000 strong. They left no infantry or artillery behind, at McCoys, but squad of infantry can be observed ou the Virginia side of the Potomac. The cavalry said their infantry would cross at Cherry Run. They crosse4 at daybreak this morning. J. P. LINTON, Major. Imboden, I have just learned, is at Wardensville, 47 miles from here. Shall I go after huin, or ~aii I reach Williamsport, 64 miles, in time to do any good ~ If I go to Wardensville I might get through Manassas Gap, it there is not too much force there for me. Please reply. WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 18629 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. NY. AVERELL, Commanding Cavalry: The commanding general directs you to leave sufficient force to guard the railroad, and then to follow the enemy with the remainder of your troops, to intercept their retreat, if possible. Communicate frequently with these headquarters. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. Operators send this via Hancock, and also via Cumberland. Call on commanders to forward. RB.M. Chief of Staff. General W. W. AVERELL, [OCTOBER 10, 1862]9 p. m. Green Spring, Va.: Your dispatch of 7 p. m. just received. The commanding general directs that you come at once (lown the Potomac, and, endeavor to get on the trail of the cavalry which crossed the river this morning, and follow it up as rapidly as possible. These rebels should not be allowed to get back to Virginia. Pleasontons division will be in pursuit to- night, and you should not lose one minute after the receipt of this order. Leave a force sufficient to watch the railroad. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff Page 61 61 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. HAGERSTOWN, October 10, [1862]. R. B. MARCY, Chiefof Staff: Citizens report that a force of the enemy crossed the river before daylight, this morning, at Kinsells Ferry, in front of Clear Spring, and captured 4 of our men, on picket there. It is supposed they are after a woolen factory there. General Kenly reports: I have very reliable in- formation that the enemy commenced crossing the river about daylight, this morning, 8 miles above here, at McCoys Ferry. I shall send some of Davis regiment to communicate with General Cox, who was at Clear Spring last night, and to go on to Kinsells Ferry. W. T. II. BROOKS, Brigadier- General. HAGERSTOWN, MD., October 10, 1862. Brigadier-General MARCY, Chief of Staff, liidqrs. Army of the Potomac: General Kenly writes, at ii a. in.: The enemy have shown themselves in strong force opposite my post. They have crossed above, as I advised you previously. W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier- General. HAGERSTOWN, MD., October 10, 1862. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GeneralKenly reports, atl2m.: Theenemy have crossed theNational pike toward Mercersburg and Little Cove, Pa. They are about 2,500 strongcavalry and artillery. Little Cove is a rich yalley in Bedford County, about 9 miles from Mercersburg. W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 18624 p. m. (Received 5 p in.) General W. T. II. BROOKS, Commanding, Ilagerstown: The commanding general directs that you send out a messenger at once to General Crook, commanding Coxs division, and inform him that he is to endeavor to intercept the rebel troops that are said to have crossed the Potomac this morning. He will discontinue his march to Clarksburg, for this purpose, and report everything of importance that occurs, to these headquarters. Please report the best information you have of the enemy, directed to Knoxville and to headquarters near Har- pers Ferry. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Sta~ Page 62 62 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAc, October 10, 18629 p. m. General W. T. H. BROOKS, Biagerstown: COMMANDING OFFICER, Cumberland: COMMANDING OFFICER, Hancock: Send the following dispatch to General Crook, commanding Coxs division: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 18629 p. In. Brigadier-General CROOK, Commanding Cox8 DiviBion: The comnu~nding general directs you to move your command to McConnellsburg, or in such other direction as will best intercept the rebels. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. R B. MARCY Chief of staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186211.15. General W. T. H. BROOKS, Gommanding at Hagerstown: The general commanding directs that you proceed at once with your brigade and all the available cavalry of Davis regiment, to endeavor to intercept and destroy the cavalry force of the rebels which you say has been reported at Greencastle. Unless this movement is made rap- idly, it is feared the enemy will escape. it has been reported that four regiments of Stuarts cavalry constitute the force which crossed the river this morning. R. B. MARCY, Chief of & aff. October 10 HANCOCK, MD., Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, 1862. (Received 3 ~. in.) General-in- Chief: I arrived here with my division at 10 this a. m. Expect to embark for Clarksburg this evening. Enemy crossed into Maryland near Clear Spring this morning. Force variously estimated from 3,000 to 6,000 cavalry and one battery; no infantry. I have my cavalry watching their movements. Very respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HANCOCK, MD., October 10, 18626.20 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: My cavalry has returned. They verify the previous statements. Enemy passed on the Cove road toward Pennsylvania GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General Page 63 CHAP. XXXI.] STUART S EXPEDITION INTO MD. -AND PA. 63 HANCOCK STATION, [MD.], October 10, 1862S p. m. General MARCY: Your dispatch of this date has been received.* I have sent my cavalry on the Cove road, near the Pennsylvania line, to picket the road, so that when the rebels attempt to return I will be apprised of it at once. I have my division loaded aboard the cars in this place, so that when I receive information of an attempt to cross at any particular place I can throw my whole force on the point at once. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186211.25 p. m. General GEORGE CROOK, Commanding Division, Hancock Station: Your dispatch.of 8 p. m. received. You will please remain in your present position, with your command ready to intercept the rebels, should they attempt to retnrn anywhere in your vicinity, or above, where you can reach them by rail. Keep your scouts well on the alert, so that they may give you timely information of any approach of the enemy, and re- port to these headquarters everything important you learn. Pleasontons cavalry, a division of Franklins corl)s, and Averells cavalry (now at Green Spring) have been ordered out after the rebels and it is expected they will not be allowed to get back unharmed. - It is said that the force of the rebels consists of four regiments of cavalry and four pieces of artillery. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 186212.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM B. FRANKLIN, Hagerstown: The division ordered to Hancock must march without knapsacks, and with three days rations in haversacks. Fifteen thousand rations have been ordered to Hancock from Cumberland, for the use of your division after its arrival. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. 1-JAGERSTOWN, MD., October 10, 1862. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Stag: General Brooks has commnnica ted to you Gcneral Kenl~s reports. He has sent a cavalry force to communicate with Cox, who must be near Clear Spring this morning. Any orders for my command will reach me sooner by being sent here than by any other channel. W. B. FRANKLIN, Major- General. * Probably Marcy to Brooks, 4 p. in., p. (U Page 64 64 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10 186~9 Major-General FRANKLIN, Commanding Sixth Corps, Hayerstown, ltd.: The commanding general directs you to send out one division toward Chambersburg, on the Hagerstown road, or in such other direction as will best intercept the rebels. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. P. 5.Communicate freqnently with these headquarters. R.B.M. HEADQU& RTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 18621 p.m. General B. F. KELLEY, Cumberland: If yon have sent troops to Paw Paw, as ordered in my dispatch of 10 a. in. to-day, you need not withdraw them to send to Hancock, in consequence of my dispatch of 12.30 p. in., but will hold them in readi- ness to move there, or elsewhere, as may be needed. The commanding geueral authorizes you to act according to the information you may re- ceive of the enemys movements, and to make such further dispositions of your troops as may, in your judgment, be require(l. It is highly im- pprtant that the rebels should be preveiited from doing further damage to the railroad. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10, 18624 p. in. General KELLEY, Commanding at Cumberland: It is said that a force of the enemy has crossed the Potomac this morn- ing near Clear Spring, and has gone toward Little Cove, in Bedford County. Please communicate this to General Averell, and tell him the commanding general wishes him to march down the river at once, after leaving a sufficient force to guard the railroad, and to get on the trail of the rebels and follow theni up as rapidly as possible. General COX, with a division of infantry, is also marching toward Hancock, who will co-operate with General Averell. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HARRISBURG, PA., October 10, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I am jnst informed that a body of rebel cavalry have occupied Mer- cersburg, said to be 3,000 strong. They have cut the telegraph wires, and are thought to be advancing oii Chambersburg. The Anderson Cavalry are at Carlisle, and we have 2,500 cavalry unarmed, none of them mounted. Will you not order Anderson Cavalry up to Chamhersburg, and send arms for them here ~ The rebels have taken all property they could move, but have not taken life. A. G. CURTLY Page 65 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 65 HARRISBURG, PA., October 10, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The following is just received from provost-marshal: CHA.MBERSBURG, October 10, 1862. ANDREW G. CURTIN: About 15, on horseback, in town, with carbines and flag of truce. Want to see prin- cipal men of town. Have large force about 1 mile from town. Will enter in an hour. F. M. KIMMEL, Provo8t-Mar8hal. The Anderson Cavalry should be ordered at once, and the troops in camp here. We cant get Chainbersburg by telegraph. A. G. CURTIN, Governor. HARRISBURG, PA., October 10, 1862. lion. B. M. STANTON: The people have surrendered Chambersburg. A. G. CURTIN. HARRISBURG, PA., October 10, 1862. (Received 11.35 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: I have a dispatch from Shippensburg, 11 miles from Chambersburg, saying that Chambersburg surrendered at 7 oclock p. in., and is now in possession of rebels. No doubt they will retire before we reach there with troops from here. Have sent forward troops from Carlisle, and am preparing all here for service. A. G. CURTIN, Governor. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 10, 1862. Governor CURTIN, llarrisburg, Pa.: Communicate with General McClellan and General Wool, and use any troops within your reach to cut oft~ the rebels at Chambersburg. I have telegraphed to General McClellan but am uncertain about his getting the message. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. BALTIMORE, October 10, 186210 p. in. Major General MCCLELLAN, Knoxville, Md.: I have received a dispatch from Governor Curtin that the rebels are in force at Chainbersburg. I will send several regiments from this city, and I will be at Havrisburg as soon as possible. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. 5 R UVOL XIX, PT I Page 66 66 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. PHILADELPHIA, PA., October 10, 1862. Capt. T. T. ECKERT: The operator at Chambersburg says there is a large force of rebel cavalry reported within 10 miles of that place. Our wire is down be. tween Chambersburg and Bedfordprobably cut. Railroad route all right. ZEJIGLER, Philadelphia Office. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Knoxville, October 11, [1862]9 a. m. (Received 12.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: An engine has been sent from Hagerstown- toward Chambersburg this morning, and I shall probably hear from them in a short time. I have made such disposition of troops along the river that I think we will intercept the rebels in their return. All of my available cavalry was ordered in pursuit last night, but as yet nothing has been heard from it. Coxs division is loaded in cars at Hancock, with cavalry well out toward the Pennsylvania line, and if the rebels attempt to return above Hancock, the division will be certain to intercept them. if they attempt to cross below Hancock, I have infantry at or near all the diP ferent fords. I have six regiments of cavalry now up the river between Hancock and Cumberland. All of these troops have been ordered to keep a sharp lookout for the return of the rebels. The force which crossed the river, I learn from several different sources, consists of four regiments of cavalry, with four guns, about 2,500 men. I have given every order necessary to insure the capture or destruction of these forces, and I hope we may be able to teach them a lesson they will not soon forget. The great difficulty we labor under is the want of cavalry, as many of our horses are over-worked and unserviceable. We have been making every effort to get supplies of clothing for this army, and Colonel Ingalls has received advices that it has been for- warded by railroad, but, owing to bad management on the roads or from some other cause, it comes in very slowly, and it will take a much longer time than was anticipated to get articles that are absolutely indispens- able to the army unless the railroad managers forward supplies more rapidly. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 11, 1862. Major-Geiieral BURNSIDE, Ninth Army Gorps: General Wool will send to General McClellan one regiment from Relay House. The selection is left to him. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief Page 67 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 67 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TEE POTOMAc, October 11, 18621 p. m. General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Gommanding Army Oorps: GENERAL: The commanding general (lirects that you send, at once, two brigades to the railroad at Weverton, to be in readiness to take the cars to Frederick. This is only a temporary thing, intended to defend Frederick and our depot at Monocacy until the rebel cavalry return from their raid into Pennsylvania. The general desires you to report, in person, at these headquarters as soon as you give these orders. Very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Stafi. HEADQUARTERS, Hancock, October 11, 18628 a. m. (Received 10.20 a. in.) General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: This country is full of by-roads, and it is in my opinion impossible to intercept the rebels at McConnellsburg or in the interior place. I have my cavalry picketing all the roads in that section of the country, and my command is loaded on the cars here, ready to be thrown at once on any point where the rebels attempt to cross the river. I have not gained any information of the rebels since they crossed the river. Yours, respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier-Generat. OCTOBER 11, 18629.30. General CROOK, Hancock: The general commanding directs that you send a brigade of your com- mand and a battery to McConnellsburg, to remain until it is determined which route the rebels will take on their return. It is thought they will reach Gettysburg to-night. They marched from Chambersburg this morning. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. OCTOBER 11, 18629.30 a. m. General GEORGE CROOK, Commanding Division, Hancock, Md.: Your dispatch of 8 a. m. received. The rebels, supposed to consist ot four regiments of cavalry and four guns, about 2,000 men, were at Chain- bersbnrg last night, but have not been heard from this morning. The general commanding directs that you remain in your present position until further orders, keeping your scouts well out on all the roads and holding your command ready to go to any point where you may think there is a probability of encountering the enemy. General Averell, wh Page 68 68 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI is above you, will probably come down the river to-day with four regi- ments of cavalry for the purpose of pursuing the rebels, and it is hoped they may not escape without punishment. Communicate often. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11, 18629.30 a. m. General WILLIAM B. FRANKLIN, Hagerstown, Md.: General Crook has his division in cars at Hancock, ready to move to any point above that place, if the rebels attempt to return that way. He has cavalry scouts out on all the roads toward the Pennsylvania line. Governor Curtin just telegraphs that he has requested the people of Fulton County to obstruct the pikes crossing Cove Mountain, from Mercersburg and London, and has directed the people to turn out with their rifles to annoy the enemy as much as possible. He thinks the whole party may be captured, and hopes the general will send forces to do it. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, October 11, 18624 a. m. General it. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Your dispatch of 10 p. m. of last evening is received. I cannot find out where McCoys Ferry is, but presume it is- near Han. cock. I shall, therefore, move toward Hagerstown, and make inquiries as I proceed. My command is very small, from the fact of many horses being unshod; and shoes could not be had. The Eighth Pennsylvania has not yet been able to obtain horses to replace the old ones of the Peninsula, now used up. Shall, however, do the best I can under the circumstances. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, Commanding Cavalry Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11, 186212 m. Brigadier-General PLEASONTON, Hagerstown: A report from Governor Curtin this morning states the rebel cavalry force camped at Chambersburg last night, and left there at 9 this morn- ing in the direction of Gettysburg. Force about 2,000 strong, consisting of Stuarts and Hamptons cavalry. It is thought, by Mr. McClure, of Chambersburg, that they intend returning by way of Frederick and Leesburg. You will at once move with your force, and all of Davis cavalry, at Hagerstown, by Cavetown and Harmons Gap, to Mechanicstown, where the Sixth Cavalry has been ordered to join you. You will send scouts on the direct road from Hagerstown to Gettys- burg, and also to Emmittsburg and beyond, to ascertain the movement Page 69 CR& P.~XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 69 of the enemy. It might be well to send citizens, if you caii get them to go, and send any information you may get to these headquarters by telegraph from ilagerstown or Frederick, as may be most convenient. You will take the best route to cut off the enemy, depending on the information you obtain. Pursue them vigorously, and do not spare your men nor horses, if you see an opportnnity of overtaking them. They should not be allowed to escape unharmed. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11 186 Maj. Gen. FITz JOHN PORTER, 23.30 ~. m. Commanding P~fth Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general desires that you will exercise special vigilance in watching the fords and all possible crossing places on the river picketed by your command, to prevent all possibility of the enemy crossing a force to this side, to make a diversion in aid of the escape of their cavalry, now here, or, in case this latter force should merely be a feint, to draw attention, and enable them to cross their army again without serions opposition. In view of these possibilities, however remote, you will please take every step in your power to pre- vent such a movement on the part of the enemy. Yours, very respectfully, ZR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. By WM. F. BIDDLE, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. COLLEGE OF SAINT JAMES, October 11 1 Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, 862-.-6 ~ m. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have received the following, partly official and partly rumor, from ilagerstown, brought by officers just arriving at their camp here: General Stuart crossed at McCoys Ferry yesterday morning with about (said to be) 3,000 men and one battery. Arrived at Mercersbnrg and took mail and postage-stamps from office, giving for the latter receipt and promise to pay. General Stuart is stated to have said that he was ordered over, but never expected to get back (?). Confederates had arrived at Chambersburg, and were rifling the warehouses. Rail- road communication broken between Hagerstown and Harrisburg. General Pleasonton had gone from Hagerstown with cavalry and infantry (Han- cocks brigade). General Averell must have known yesterday of the crossing of the enemy, and must be on their track by this time (I). Smiths division passed up toward Hagerstown to-day. I have put a query to such as I give as reports. All quiet on my lines. If General Stuart was ordered over, was it to check movement on our side, or cover one on theirs, and would he have stated as above? I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. J. PORTER, Major- General. P. S.Did they not know of clothing being essential for us, and this raid would cause delay in its arrival at Hagerstowni F.J.P Page 70 70 OPERATIONS IN N. VA~, W. VA,, MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11, 18628.36 p. m. Brigadier-General STONEMAN, Pooleseille, Md.: COMMANDING OFFICER, Frederick Md.: The following dispatch has just been received from General Franklin: JIAGERSTOWN, Octolicr 11, 18627.45 p. m. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY: A discharged officer, named Hamilton, late quartermaster of Bartletts brigade, was taken prisoner by Stuart last evening at Cliambersburg, and paroled. He had, he says, a long talk with Stuart, who told him that he had 3,000 cavalry. Would be in Gettysburg at 12 to-day, and would cross the Potomac at mouth of Monocacy. If he found too large a force there, would go lower. HamiLtou says there are about 1,900 cavalry. That a force of 300 was absent when they were counted this morning. W. B. FRANKLIN, Major- General. P. S.Stuart desired to be remembered kindly to General S. Williams. This makes it look authentic. W. B. F. The cavalry, as counted this morning, referred above, by a Mr. Mc- C lelland, numbered about 1,644. GEG. D. JIUGGLES, Golonel, cFc. BALTIMORE, October 11, 18622 a.m. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: I will send you to-morrow three regiments and a light battery of six pieces, and I will be with you to-morrow morning; perhaps not nntil 1 p.m. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., October 11, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: General Wool arrived here to-day, and has assumed command. We have a very active enemy within the State. A prisoner was captured by the farmers 5 miles west of Gettysburg this afternoon. He says the whole rebel force will be in Gettysburg to-night. I hope our military authorities will capture the force, with all their booty. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvansa. HARRISBURG, October 11, 1862. (Received October 11, 10.15 a.m.) Major-General MCCLELLAN, Knoxville: I have requested the people of Fulton County to obstruct the turn- pike road crossing Cove Mountain, from Mercersbnrg and Loudon; also all the roads from Mercersburg to Hancock, to prevent retreat in that direction, placing riflemen at each point in as large numbers as possible. The whole party ought to be captured, and I hope you can send force to do it. A. G. CURTIN Page 71 CHAP. XXXI.] STUART S EXPEDITION INTO MD.- AND PA. 71. OCTOBER 11, 186211.10 a. m. Gov. ANDREW G. CIJETIN, Harrisburg: Your dispatch of 10.15 this morning received. I have sent out all my disposable cavalry in pursuit of the rebels, and have posted infantry at and near all the fords along the Potomac, so that I think they cannot return into Virginia without being intercepted. I have a division loaded in cars, at Hancock, ready to move to any point above. If the rebels attempt to cross in that direction, no efforts will be spared, on my part, to chastise the party. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, 1lli~jor- General, Commanding. HARRISBURG, October 11, 18622.30 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Knoxville: Your message received. The rebels destroyed railroad buildings and rolling stock at Chambersburg this morning; also railroad bridge 5 miles east of town. Part of their force left, by Baltimore pike, in direction of Gettysburg. We are sending about 4,000 men and battery of artillery to Carlisle. General Wool is here, and will probably go to Carlisle. Will keep you advised of all that reaches me. A. G. CUIRTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, October 11, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Knoxville, ]llid.: The following received at 10 a. m: CHAMBERSBURG, [October] 11, via SHIPPENSBURG, 7 a. m. Governor CUETIN: Stuarts and Hamptons cavalry, about 3,000 in number, occupied the town last night. It was formally surrendered, on condition that private citizens should be re- spected and property not be wantonly destroyed. They took about 500 horses, includ- ing 10 of mine, but did not interfere with citizens or destroy anything. One regi- ment encamped before my door, and the officers spent most of night with me. They behaved very well, and talked freely about everything but their movements. This morning they have just commenced to movetoward Gettysburg, and all about to move, apparently. They crossed Potomac yesterday morning below Hancock, so that in- fantry cannot be with them. It looks as if they were on a foraging expedition through Pennsylvania, by Frederick to Leesburg, or it may he that the whole army is there, retreating, to provide supplies and replenish horses and reach Richmond. The cav- alry would not move farther from their army if they intended to return by Hancock. Should anything else transpire to-day, I will try and send it to you. A. K. McCLURE. A. G. CURTIN. HARRISBURG, October 11, 18624.10 p. m. General MCCLELLAN: Rebels crossed Potomac near Clear Spring, and entered Pennsylvania by Blairs Valley. Latest advices say they are moving in direction of Gettysburg, thence by Ernmittsburg, to destroy Government stores at or near Frederick. These statements are mere conjectures, given to you as received. A. G. CUIITIN, Governor of Pennsylvania Page 72 72 OPERATIONS IN N.- VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. HARRISBURG, October 11, 18625.30 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Knoxville: The rebels are advancing on Gettysburg, and will be there to-night. The farmers attacked their advance 5 miles west of Gettysburg, and captured 1 prisoner. He says the whole force will be in Gettysburg to-night; prisoner is on his way to Harrisburg, by railroad. Can you get force in rear of enemy, to prevent their retreat to Fulton or Bedford Counties? General Wool will have three regiments and battery at Hanover Junction to- night. A. G. CURTIX. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11, 18629.30 p. m. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg: Your dispatch of 5.30 p. m. received. I have ordered a brigade (one of Crooks) from Hancock to McConnellsburg, to remain there until the rebels are disposed of. Our cavalry will be after them to-night. A bri- gade of infantry and battery have gone from Hagerstown to Chambers- burg. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18627 p. m. General W. W. AVERELL, Gare General Grook, Hancock: The rebel cavalry have recrossed into Virginia to-day, near the mouth of the Monocacy. You will, therefore come, by the most direct road, from your present position, to the vicinity of Williamsport, from which place you will repoit your arrival by telegraph, via Hagerstown, to these head- quarters. IR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18621.30. COMDG. OFFICER BRIGADES OF BURNSIDES CORPS, Monocacy Junction: Send back to the Point of Rocks two of your regiments at once, by railroad, and have them use every effort to prevent the enemys cavalry from crossing the river into Virginia. They are now scattered. R. B. MARCY Chief of Staff. P. S.No time must be lost. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18621.45 p. m. COMDG. OFFICER OF BURNSIDES BRIGADES, Monocacy Junction: Send another regiment to Point of Rocks, if you can get cars, an Page 73 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 73 direct the officer to move his regiment down the river toward Nolands Ferry, to pick up Confederate stragglers in that direction. Answer this, and tell me what time the troops move. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October [12], 18622.30. p. m. OFFICER COMDG. BRIGADES FROM BURNSIDES CORPS, Monocacy Junction: General Burnside was directed yesterday to send two brigades, by railroad, to Monocacy Junction, to remain in cars ready to move, at a moments notice, to any point that the enemy might cross the railroad. It now appears that the enemy crossed the railroad this morning at Monrovia, and no report has been received at these headquarters that your command has made the least effort to stop the progress of the enemy. The commanding general directs that you at once report where your command is at this time, and what you have been doing since you arrived at Monocacy Junction. I sent you two dispatches to-day, ordering you to send back three regiments to the Point of Rocks for the purpose of preventing the rebels from getting back into Virginia, but as yet Iget no reply from you. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18627 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE CROOK, Hancock: The enemys cavalry have recrossed into Virginia near the mouth of the Monocacy. You will, therefore, order back your brigade from Mc. Connellsburg to Hancock, and proceed to Clarksburg, according to your original orders. Please forward the accompanying dispatch to General Averell.* R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18627.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM B. FRANKLIN, Hagerstown: Pleasonton reports that Stuarts cavalry recrossed into Virginia, near the mouth of the Monocacy, to-day, having marched over 90 miles in the previous twenty-four hours. Pleasonton overtook them at the river, with their artillery in position, but could not accomplish iiiuch alone, owing to his artillery horses being used up by their rapid pursuit of 78 miles, and being unable to follow rapidly at the last, though the rebel battery was silenced and driven off. Full result not yet reported. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. * See Marcy to Averell, 7 p. in., p. 72 Page 74 74 OPERATIONS IN N. VA.,. XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. MOUTH OF THE MONOCACY, Mm, Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, October 12, 18628.30 a. m. Chief of General McClellans & aff: Have crossed the Monocacy at its mouth. Hear nothing of the rebels. Have sent out scouts in the direction of Barnesville, Poolesville, and at the lower fords. My command is pretty well used up, having marched over 70 miles in the last twenty-four hours. If Stuart takes the back track, shall not be able to follow him, but will do all I can. The Sixth Cavalry has not reported to me. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18624.30 a. m. Brigadier-General STONEMAN, Poolesville: The following dispatchjust received: MECHANICSTOWN, 12.30 a. m. have just heard that the rebels passed down through a small town called Middle- town, 5 or 6 miles east of this, about one hour ago, so they said. They were travel- ing at a trot, and were evidently making for the Potomac, to cross. I shall start at once for Frederick, and expect to hear from them at that poiut. They are making for either Nolands or Haulings Crossing, at the mouth of the Monocacy. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. GEG. B. IWGGLES, Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 12, 18629 a. m. General STONEMAN, Poolesville: Colonel Allen, First Maine Cavalry, commanding at Frederick, reports by telegraph just received (supposed to have been sent about 8.30 this morning) that Stuart passed through Urbana two hours before. GEG. D. BUGGLES, Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. OCTOBER 12, 18629 a. m. (Received 10.15 a. in.) General MARCY: Your telegrams of 2.45 and 4.30 a. m. this moment received, their delay owing to the line not working. I have started all the force at my (lisposal for the mouth of the Monocacy and vicinity. GEORGE STONEMAX, Brigadier- General. General MARCY: POOLESYILLE, Mn., October 12, 186212.20. The enemy is scattered over the country between here and Point of Rocks. My who]e force is in pursuit of them, and trying to prevent thei Page 75 CHAP. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 75 crossing the river, which they can do at almost any point. I am hurry- ing up Robinsons and Berrys brigades to join in the pursuit, but fear they will be too late. I have ordered a portion of Wards brigade above the mouth of the Monocacy. I hope you sent the two regiments to Point of Rocks yesterday, as I suggested; if so, they will be of great service. The enemy passed through Barnesville about 10 a. m. this morning, going toward the month of the Monocacy. I have not heard of General Pleasonton, but firing has been heard iu the direction of Point of Rocks. The enemy is very much scattered, and trying to get across the river in small parties; I have had to divide my small force accordingly. GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. POOLESYILLE, October 12, 18621 p. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Robinsons brigade has just arrived, after a forced march from Rock- yule. General Pleasonton has just been heard from, near the river, with his force passing toward Conrads Ferry, where I have one regi- ment of infantry. Enemy has destroyed telegraph wire, for 30 feet, 5 miles above here. Just sent up wire to have it repaired. Infantry firing between Conrads and Monocacy. GEORGE STOKEMAK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. POOLESYILLE, MD., October 12, 18622.30 p. m. Capt. RICHARD B. IRWIN, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: The enemy (Stuarts and Hamptons cavalry, and six pieces of artil- lery) passed through Barnesville early this morning, pursued by General Pleasonton. Upon arriving in the vicinity of the river, they scattered into different parties all over the country. I was, of course, compelled to divide my force accordingly, and engaged the enemy at the different points. He has succeeded in crossing the river at the different fords between the Point of Rocks and Conrads Ferry. I have sent General Ward directions to concentrate his brigade, call upon General Pleason- ton for cavalry and artillery, and to cross the river and pursue the en- emy as long as his men can hold out. Davis regiment has beeu directed to return to Edwards Ferry and protect the pontoon train until the arrival of Berrys brigade. Jewetts regiment I have kept at the depot of supplies, at the mouth of Seneca Creek. The enemy were dressed in our uniforms, causing great uncertainty in the movements of the different parties sent out. GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, Octobcr 12, 1862. Gov. ANDREW G. CuIITIN, harrisburg, Pa.: General Wool is authorized to stop any troops he may deem proper. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 76 CuAr. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 77 to cross. General Pleasonton, with a large cavalry force, is moving out to intercept them, and if they come in your direction he will probably be near them. We shall have two brigades of infantry at Frederick to-night. Communicate any informatiou of the enemy~ s movements to these headquarters from time to time. The following has just been received from General Pleasonton: NEAR MOUTH OF THE MONOCACY, MD. R. B. MAlicy, Chief of Staff General Stoneman has asked me for some cavalry to send over the river after the rebels. I have told him that the infantry and cavalry are wholly unfit for service, and could not follow the enemy until recuperated. My whole command of cavalry and artillery to-day was not more than 800 men. My force of cavalry was two regi- ments and a halfboth regiments small. Of the two other regiments ordered to re- port to me, I have not heard. A force of infantry and cavalry from Poolesville arrived after the enemy had crossed the river. Unless otherwise ordered, I shall move back to my camp near Sharpsburg, to-morrow. My horses need rest and shoeing very badly. It appears that a regiment of infantry stationed near the ford where the rebels crossed did not engage or attempt to stop them from crossing. I do not know the name of this regiment. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. General Stoneman has been directed to furnish an immediate report as to the manner in which he carried out the instructions contained in the dispatch of the 11th. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. OCTOBER 13, 18629 a. m. General A. PLEASONTON, Near mouth of the llilionocacy, via .Poole8vifle: Your dispatch of this morning received.* You will march your com- mand to-morrow morning to these headquarters, which you Will find near Burnsides headquarters, in Pleasant Valley, and report for further orders. No troops will be allowed to cross the river near your position to-day. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. OCTOBER 13, 18629 a. m. General GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesvitle, lIJid.: The commanding general directs that you will not send a detach- ment across the Potomac, as he conceives it too late now to attempt to follow Stuart with your command. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, October 13, 18621 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesville: The commanding general thinks you had better report to General McClellan to-day. General Grover will proceed to join to-morrow. Leave him a battery and some cavalry. We will relieve the battery as soon as possible and return it to you. RICIII) B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide- de- Camp, and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. * See Marcy to Halleck, 9 a. in., p. 76 Page 77 CHAP. XXXL1 STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. 77 to cross. General Pleasonton, with a large cavalry force, is moving out to intercept them, and if they come in your direction he will probably be near them. We shall have two brigades of infantry at Frederick to-night. Communicate any information of the enemys movements to these headquarters from time to time. The following has just been received from General Pleasonton: NEAR MOUTH OF THE MONOCACY, MD. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: General Stoneman has asked me for some cavalry to send over the river after the rebels. I have told him that the infantry and cavalry are wholly unfit for service, and could not follow the enemy until recuperated. My whole command of cavalry and artillery to-day was not more than 800 men. My force of cavalry was two regi- ments and a halfboth regiments small. Of the two other regiments ordered to re- port to me, I have not heard. A force of infantry and cavalry from Poolesville arrived after the enemy had crossed the river. Unless otherwise ordered, I shall move back to my camp near Sharpsburg, to-morrow. My horses need rest and shoeing very badly. It appears that a regiment of infantry stationed near the ford where the rebels crossed did not engage or attempt to stop them from crossing. I do not know the name of this regiment. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. General Stoneman has been directed to furnish an immediate report as to the manner in which he carried out the instructions contained in the dispatch of the 11th. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. OCTOBER 13, 18629 a. m. General A. PLEASONTON, Near mouth of the llfonocacy, via -Poolesville: Your dispatch of this morning received.* You will march your com- mand to-morrow morning to these headquarters, which you ~vill find near Burusides headquarters, in Pleasant Valley, and report for further orders. No troops will be allowed to cross the river near your position to-day. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. OCTOBER 13, 18629 a. m. General GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesrille, Md.: The commanding general directs that you will not send a detach- ment across the Potomac, as he conceives it too late now to attempt to follow Stuart with your command. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staffi HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, October 13, 18621 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesville: The commanding general thinks you had better report to General McClellan to-day. General Grover will proceed to join to-morrow. Leave him a battery and some cavalry. We will relieve the battery as soon as possible and return it to you. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide- de- Camp, and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. See Marcy to Ilalleck, 9 a. in., p. 76 Page 78 78 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, October 13, 18621.20 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesville: Anticipating a dash of Stuarts cavalry in this direction, the General- in-Chief has ordered everything to be on the alert. We will send a com- pany of cavalry to Offutts Cross-Roads, with advanced post at Coons Ford, and another company to Great Falls. Should the enemy cross there, you ought to prevent his return. Could you do anything to pre- vent the crossing? What are your orders from General McClellan? Have you reported to him? Acknowledge. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-~Jamp, and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13,18622 p. m. General W. W. AVERELL, Care General Crook, Hancock, i]Id.: Governor Curtin just reports that he has beei informed that the rebels, supposed to be in very great force, are in Franklin County; that this morning they were within 8 miles of Concord, and stole 1,500 horses last night. I think there must be some mistake about this and if there is any foundation for the rumor, I believe it must be a part of Stuarts force which entered that way. You will please investigate the matter, and if you ascertain that there -is any force which you can cope with, you will pursue them day and night until you overtake and engage them. General Crook, with a division, is at Hancock, with cars ready to move by railroad to any point west with his whole division. Should the rebels move up the Potomac to recross, you will l)lease keep General Crook constantly advised of their progress so that he may intercept them if possible. Acknowledge the receipt of this at once, and keep us fully advised. R. B. MARCY, Chief of & ajJ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 18622 p. m. General CROOK, Hancock, Md.: Gov. A. G. Curtin just reports that he has been informed, by a reliable man, that the rebels, supposed to be in very great force, are in Franklin County; that this morning they were 8 miles from. Concord, and that they stole 1,500 head of horses last night. I think there must be some mistake about this; but the commanding general directs that you await in your present position, and send out your scouts to ascertain the truth of the rumor, and report everything you learn. Please communicate with General Pleasonton, and send him the above dispatch. You will remain in readiness to act till further orders. R. B. MARCY, Chief of & aW Page 79 V(9 CuAr. XXXI.] STUARTS EXPEDITION INTO MD. AND PA. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 18623 p. m. General KELLEY, Commanding Cumberland, lid.: Governor Curtin reports that he has been informed that a force of rebels were within 8 miles of Concord, in Franklin County, this morn- ing, and that they stole 1,500 horses last night. This may be a part of Stuarts cavalry, which went to Chambersburg. Please direct all your commanders to keep a sharp lookout for their return, and keep scouts well out toward the Pennsylvania line, so as to intercept them, if pos- sible. Th B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. CUMBERLAND, October 13,18629 p m. General R. B. MARCY: Your dispatch of this date just received. Your directions will be promptly carried out. My aide-de-canip returned this evening from Bedford. No news of the enemy in that direction. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. HARRISBURG, PA., October 13, 186211 a. in. Major-General HALLECK, General ~in- Chief: The following just received: PERRYVILLE, via MIFFLIN. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN: The rebels are in Franklin County, reported to be making for this road, said and thought to have been 30,000 strong. They captured 1,500 head of horses. I left last night at 12 oclock; reached Perryville 8 oclock this morning. Before I left, the rebels were 8 miles from Concord, my residence, Franklin County. A very reliable man brought the news to me. The farmers of Franklin County were conveying their horses to Perry County. SAMUEL A. JUNKIN. I am trying to get further information. The person is a reliable man. We have 3,000 raw troops here, but have no artillery or cavalry. I earnestly ask that cavalry and artillery be ordered to be ready to come here, so that, if true, we can have the troops at once. If it turns out to be true, and we have troops and quick movements, we may catch them this time. General Andrew Porter is here, and is in my counsel. A. G. CIJItTIN. HARRISBURG, October 13, [1862]1l a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: The following dispatch just received : * * * * * * * * I will inform you when I get anything more. The person is a reliable man. A. G. CURTIN. See Junkins dispatch, in Curtin to Halleck, 11 a. in., above Page 80 80 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 13, 1862. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Your telegram of 11 a. m. forwarded to General McClellan. We have here cavalry barely sufficient for picket duty. The delay of the States in raising cavalry leaves us greatly crippled in that arm. II. W. HALLECK, General-in.Chief. HARRISBURG, PA., October 13, 18621 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HXLLECK, General-in- Chief: The following just received, in answer to dispatch just sent you: CHAMBERSBURG, October 13, 1862. Governor CuRTIN: We had Junkins rumors, with thousands of others, but they are eutirely unfounded. To approach Concord they must cross at Loudon, 10 miles west from here, on the pike, and we have word from there hourly. Concord is at the head of Path Valley, aud to enter it they must go by Mercersburg and London, and cross Cove Mountain at London and Fannettsburg, and we could not be without the information. It is entirely unfounded, and results from exaggerated rumors of their cavalry being at Saint Thomas on Friday night. About 60 rebel cavalry are just reported by one of our officers to be in the neighborhood of Fayetteville, 6 miles east, on pike. They seem to have been scattered and retreating. We are amply prepared for them, and every one appearing will be fired at. Colonel Grant is here with two Vermont regi- ments of artillery [infantry]. A. K. McCLURE. A. G. CUDTIN, Governor. HARRISBURG, PA., October 13, 18623 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. XV. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I believe the rebels are now out of the State, by Adams County. They took 60 horses this morning and 2 men, and left. There are still some in mountains in Franklin County. In Adams County they plundered houses and stokes. We have 3,000 cavalry here; one regiment in Pitts- burg, and the An~lerson Cavalry at Carlisle, 950 strong, waiting for horses and arms. As we have used the Anderson Cavalry twice (this time as infantry) on the border, and the men know the country and are adapted to such service, I suggest you had better mount and arm them, and 1)ut them on the line until the rebel army leaves. Our people are very much alarmed, and such incursions and pillage will have a very bad effect. Please telegraph me on this subject. We used all our cav- alry as infamiairy last week. A. 0-. CUIRTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HEADQUARTERS AR~1Y OF THE POTOMAC, October 13, 18623 p. m. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Your telegram of 11 a. m. received. I do not credit the report about the 30,000 rebels being in Franklin County, for the reason that Ge Page 81 CnAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS ABOUT PARIS, SNICKERSYILLE, ETC. 81 eral Averell with a large cavalry force is now in that section, and I have forces at all points along the Potomac who would, unless they are all captured, have reported the advance of any force from Virginia. If there is any foundation for the report, I believe it is a part of Stuarts cavalry, which must have been detaehed from him when he made his raid yesterday. I have ordered General Averell to ascertain the truth of the report, and, if he finds any force which he can cope with, to follow them day and night until he overtakes and engages them. I have also put all the troops on the Upper Potomac upon the alert, and will advise you when anything is done. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., October 13, 1862. P. II. WATSON, Esq., Assistant Secretary of War: The track of the Cumberland Valley Railroad was not injured by the rebels. Only the railroad buildings and some rolling stock at Chain- bersburg were destroyed. The trains are running through to Hagers- town now, and ammunition and other supplies can be forwarded with- out delay. W. W. WRIGHT, Military Sujperintendent. HEADQUARTERS, October 14, 18629 p. m. (Received 10 p. in.) Brig. Gen. W. XV. AVERELL, Commanding Gavalry, Green Spring, Va.: The commanding general directs you to leave sufficient force to guard the railroad, and then to follow the enemy with the remainder of your troops, to intercept their retreat, if possible. Communicate frequently with these headquarters. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. OCTOBER 13, 1862..Operations about Paris, Snickersville, and Middle- burr, Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Julius Stahel, U. S. Army. CENTREVILLE, October 14, 1862. I returned with my command this morning at 2 oclock, having been very snccessfnl. My troops, under Captain Hanley, proceeded to within a half a mile of Paris, and, under Ayers, through Snickersville after I sent my dispatch to you yesterday. My troops met the enemys cav- alry everywhere, sometimes in small, sometimes in large numbers. We drove them in at all points. We have been attacked by Whites cavalry, Loudoun Cavalry, and Sixth Virginia Cavalry, and finally we drove back a detachment of Stnarts cavalry, which were trying to cut off Captain Ayers, at Snickersville. Major Knox paroled between 80 and 90 pris- oners in Middleburg. My other troops took 16 prisoners, 9 of whom were paroled, and, returning, 7 were brought into camp, with horses and 6 R RVOL XIX, PT I Page 82 82 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL full equipments. Two of these were from Stuarts cavalry; others from Whites and Sixth Virginia. One of our men was taken prisoner, but, after a chase of 6 miles, was recaptured. We also recaptured one of onr men who had been taken prisoner by Stuart at Leesburg. JUL. STAHEL, Brigadier- General. FRANZ SIGEL, Major. General. OCTOBER 1617, 1862.Reconnaissance from Sharpsburg, Nd., to Smithfield, W. Va., including skirmishes near Kearneysville and Shepherdstown. REPORTS, ETC. No. 1.Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Poto- mac. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Andrew A. Humphreys, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Fifth Army Corps. No. 3.General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern Virginia. No. 4.Return of casnalties in the Confederate forces in the skirmish near Kearneys. yule. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, October 18, [1862]10 a. m. (Received 11.10 a. in.) The reconnaissance from Shepherdstown, under General Humplireys, returned safely to camp, opposite that place, last night. They were fol- lowed by the enemys cavalry all the way back to Shepherdstown, skir- mishing constantly. Before recrossing the river the First Massachusetts Cavalry charged the rebel cavalry, and drove them from the town. The force met by General Humphreys was composed of all arms. Gen- eral Hancock had returned to Hailtown with his command at dark last evening, and intended remaining there over night. I have instructed him to hold that position, if it can be safely done, with a brigade of his command, information from prisoners shows the entire rebel army is still in position from Bunker Hill to Winchester and that vicinity. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Jilajor- General, Commanding. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Reports of Brig. Gen. Andrew A. flumphreys, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Fifth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS, Kearneysville, [Va.], October 16, 1862sunset. For a mile past, infantry, as well as cavalry, have partaken in the skirmish. The enemy have six pieces of artillery, two regiments of cay Page 83 CHAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO SMITHFIELD, ETC. 83 airy, and some infantry. I hear nothing of the cavalry force that was to have advanced along the line of railroad to the Opequon nor of the reconnaissance toward Shepherdstown [Charlestown a?]. Therefore ii shall encamp where the road to Halitown leaves this road, and where the road to Martinsburg likewise leaves it. [A. A. HUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General.] [General PORTER.] HEADQUARTERS RECONNAISSANCE, CAMP AT THE FORR OF THE HALLTOWN AND MARTINSBURG ROADS, October 16, 18628 p. m. The vedettes sent to General Hancock returned after dark. In going, they met, at the intersection of Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 300 cavalry and one piece of artillery of the enemy. A short distance beyond, they met the Ira Harris Cavalry, which returned to General Bnrnsides camp. They met General Hancock at Charlestown; his artillery in position at 4 p. m. his cavalry had begun to move beyond Charlestown. The Ira Harris Cavalry must be that referred to in the instructions as intended to move along the railroad toward the Opequon. But none has been as far as this road, nor can I now expect. I shall move to Leetown to- morrow morning, and try to communicate with General Hancock. I have stated, in a previons report, what force I have felt. It was stated by persons living on the road near Kearneysville that the enemy have three brigades of infantry, besides their cavalry. They leave at least two regiments of cavalry aiid four or six pieces, besides the two on the Mar- tinsbnrg road and the two on the Halitown road. Two of these pieces, on adjoining roads, may perhaps be counted as appearing later on the main road. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Reconnaissance. IIDQRS. ONE-HALF MILE BEYOND KEARNEYSYILLE, October 17, 18623 a. m. We have moved this far this morning without molestation. A colored man, whom we took here last night, says, The enemy sent back to their main body for ~ A. A. HUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Lieutenant-Colonel WEBB, Chief of Staff, P?~fth Army Corps. P. S.We had 1 killed and 10 wounded yesterday, and took 2 pris- oners of the Fifth Virginia Infantry. Found 2 of the enemy dead on the side of the road. HEADQUARTERS Two MILES BEYOND KEARNEYSYILLE, [October 17 ?], 18624 a. m. A prisoner we have just taken, of Fifth Virginia Cavalry, states that Lees whole force of cavalry, six regiments, at least, are in our front and flank, and at least one brigade of infantry and six pieces of arti Page 84 84 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. lery. Their camp was at Striders Miii, 3 miles from here, but was moved yesterday farther along the Opequon. They control this road, so far as my cavalry is concerned. I cannot send it from me. They are strong enough to dismount their cavalry iu front as infantry. As soon as I have dislodged them iu front, I shall either send the cavalry for- ward, with two pieces of artillery, the gunners of which I have mounted, or return with the whole force. Since having occupied the cavalry in General Hancocks right, it is probable his cavalry have effected the object of the reconnaissance. A. A. HUMPHIIEYS, Brigadier- General. [Col. A. S. WEBB.] HUMPHREYS COMMKND, Near Kearneysville, October 17, 18626 a. m. I mwe to Leetown, and will send forward my cavalry to Smithfield, if possible. There were, last evening, two regiments of cavalry, three or more of infantry, and from four to six guns in front of me. They may have been re-enforced last night. Let me know as soon as possible what yonr movements are. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General, Comdg. Reconnaissance from ~hepherdstown. Major-General HANCoCX, Commanding Reconnaissance from flarjpers Ferry. [Indorsement.] Colonel Strother says there is a rumor that Stuart has 10,000 cavalry ahead, 8 miles to our right. W. S. H. HEADQUARTERS HUIIPHREYS COMMAND, ON ROAD Two MILES BEYOND KEARNEYSYILLE, October 17, 18629.15 a. m. We have a very large force of the enemy in front and on our right flank, and are moving cautiously. The last dispatch was dated half ai~ hour too late; it should have been 7.30 oclock. A. A. HIJMPHREYS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Reconnaissance. Col. A. S. WEBB, Chief of ~3taff, Fifth Corps. P. S.One of the men taken prisoner yesterday, it has been found out, communicated our number and the object of the expedition to the enemy. HEADQUARTERS, Leetown, October 17, 186212.30 p. m. Received the orders to return at 12.30 oclock. Communicated at once to General Hancock the hour of my intended withdrawal from this point, and have just received a communication from him, dated 11.40, saying that he would withdraw from Charlestown in twQ hours. At Page 85 CHAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO SMITHFIELD, ETC. 85 oclock I received a message from Major Curtis, saying that he was more than half-way to Smithfield, and had met with no opposition. He has this moment returned. The enemys cavalry now occupy Smith- field. I return at once. A. A. IIUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Reconnaissance. Licut. Col. A. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff, JAfth Corps. HEADQUARTERS, Kearneysrille, October [17], 1862~3.30* [4] p. m. We have reached this point without loss, and with no attack, except when leaving Leetown, where they shelled us for nearly a mile. A Confederate, who came in to nurse (he says) a wounded brother at Shepherdstown, has a pass from Longstreet, who commands the left wing. He is at Bunker Hill. A. A. HUMPHIREYS; Brigadier- General. Major-General PORTER. HDQRS. Two AND A HALF MILES FROM SHEPHERDSTOWN, October [17], 18625 p. m. We have reached this point without molestation. Cavalry skirmish- ers follow us, and we exchange shots with them. We shall cross the ford to-night. My last dispatch should have been 4 p. m. instead of 3.30. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General. Major-General PORTER. HDQRS. ONE AND A HALF MILES FROM SHEPHERDSTOWN, October [17], 18626 p. m. The enemy follow us with two pieces of artillery and some cavalry. We have been exchanging fire of batteries with them. A. A. II1IJMPIIREYS, Brigadier- General. Major-General PORTER. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvIsIoN, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 19, 1862. COLONEL: I have to report, for the information of the major-general commanding the Fifth Corps, that, in compliance with iustructions re- ceived on the evening of the 15th instant, the command detailed for the reconnaissance in the direction of Kearneysville, Leetown, and Smith- field, moved from the camp, near Sharpsburg, at daylight on the 16th. it consisted of 500 cavalry, nuder the command of Maj. G. S. Curtis, First Massachusetts Cavalry; two sections (four rifled guns) of Battery ID, Fifth U. S. Artillery, and a section (Xapoleons) of the Fifth Massa- chusetts Battery, the whole commanded by First Lieut. Charles E. Hazlett, Fifth U. S. Artillery; Buchanans brigade of United States * See Humphreys to Porter, 5 p. in., October [17], following Page 86 86 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. XXXL Infantry, Sykes division, 1,250 strong, commanded by Maj. Charles S. Lovell, Fifth U. S. Infantry; Tylers brigade, Third Division, 2,500 strong, commanded by Col. E. M. Gregory, Ninety-first Pennsylvania Volunteers; Griffins brigade, Morells division, 2,250 strong, com- manded by Col. C. M. Alexander, District of Columbia Volunteers, the whole constituting a force of 500 cavalry, six pieces of artillery, and 6,000 infantry. The difficult crossing of the canal and river, watched by the enemy, occupied much time. The command marched in the order stated, the advance guard of the cavalry, 150 of the Fifth U. S. Cavalry, being corn- manded by Lient. J. P. Ash, of that regiment. Two miles beyond Shep- herdstown our advance was resisted by four regiments of Lees cavalry brigade and two pieces of artillery, commanded by Maj. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart. An attempt to draw them into ambuscade failing, they were driven from position to position, the ground being highly favorable to de- fensive operations, to half a mile beyond Kearneysville (6~ miles beyond Shepherdstown). Here they were re-enforced by the remainder of Lees brigade of cavalry, two regiments, four pieces of artillery, and a brigade of infantry (formerly Jacksons), five regiments strong, commanded by Col. Charles A. Ronald. Our ~ix pieces of artillery were rapidly placed in position; the skirmishers of the United States infantry advanced in open ground upon theirs, posted in the wood, and in fifteen minutes, or less time, their force was driven from this position. This took place about sunset. I have subsequently learned that the enemys infantry advanced from Bunker Hill the night before, had reached Kearneysville about 3 p. in., and were engaged in destroying the railroad in that vicinity when our approach interrupted them. One regiment of this brigade (Fifth Vir. ginia Infantry) had been occupied for three days previous in breaking up the Winchester Railroad, at Thompsons [Stephensons] Station, 6 miles beyond Smithfield. In selecting a position to encamp for the night I was governed by the following considerations, viz: Information, believed to be worthy of con- fidence, had been obtained (luring the day that there was a camp of infantry (a brigade) on the Opequon, at Striders Mill, 3 miles from Kearneysville; the cavalry detachment, of 150 men, commanded by Cap- tain Crowninshield, sent on the road from Shepherdstown to Martins- burg, reported a large cavalry force, with two pieces of artillery, at Williamston, 3 miles to my right; two vedette parties, sent by me in the direction of Charlestown, to communicate with General Hancock, had not returned, and I was thus left in doubt whether I was not open to the enemy on the left as well as on the right and in front. Accordingly, 1 encamped for the night at the cross-roads leading to Martinsbnrg and to Charlestown, retracing my steps 1 mile toward Shepherdstown. The vedette party sent out froni Shepherdstown returned at night, just as the troops had encamped, and reported that a force of at least 300 of the enemys cavalry, with one piece of artillery, occupied the crossing of the railroad, on the Shepherdstown and llalltown road, but that lie had eluded them, and delivered my dispatch to General Han- cock, who occupied Charlestown. In returning, he saw their camp-fires near the same ground. The next morning, at daylight, the march was resumed in the same order as the previous day, the cavalry in advance, throwing out detach- ments of about 25 men on the roads leading toward Martinsburg and the Martinsburg pike, with instructions to report from time to time; the United States infantry next (with two pieces of artillery), throwin Page 87 CaM. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO SMITHFIELD, ETC. 87 out a line of skirmishers; then Gregorys infantry, Alexanders infantry forming the rear of the column and furnishing the rear guard of in- fantry. A squadron of cavalry brought up the rear of all. Two pieces of artillery were at the head of Gregorys column, and two at that of Alexanders. A mile and a half beyond Kearneysville the enemys cavalry, supported by artillery, appeared in very strongforce in onr front and on our right flank, their skirmishers exchanging shots with ours, and their artillery opening upon us. It had now been ascertained, with tolerable certainty, that their cavalry force in that vicinity was not less than 7,000 strong (two brigades, of six regiments eachLees and Ashbys), with at least six pieces of artillery. There had been ample time to bring up additional infantry from Bun- ker Hill, not more than 11 miles from us. The last road leading to Charlestown (8 miles distant), before reaching Leetown, branched at this place. For a time it appeared to me doubtful whether it was not better to halt my infantry at this point, and endeavor to advance my small force of cavalry, with two pieces of artillery (the gunners mounted for the occasion on cavalry horses), to Smithfield, and allow them to re- turn by way of Charlestown and Harpers Ferry; but, upon further con- sideration, I determined to advance with my whole force to Leetown,if possible, since I could best learn in that way whether heavy infantry re- enforcements had been thrown forward from Bunker Hill; and should it prove to be so, the fact would be positively ascertained that the enemys army still occupied its old position, or, at least, had not fallen back. With a small force of cavalry as skirmishers in front, followed by a line of infantry skirmishers, the regular brigade in the order of battle (two pieces of artillery in its center), the rest of the command in the order heretofore stated, and the main body of cavalry on the flank, near the column of infantry, we advanced without further opposition to Leetown, the enemy falling back as we advanced. Here, establishing the infantry and artillery in the fine position which the ground afforded, I accepted the proposition of Major Curtis to take 25 of his men and proceed rapidly to Smithfield, between 4 and 5 miles distant. I did this because I deemed it injudicious to attempt to send forward the whole body of cavalry in the face of the enemys powerful force of that arm. Major Curtis accomplished the undertaking in a handsome man- ner. Avoiding the road until within 2 miles of Snmithfield, he escaped the observation of the enemys cavalry, who watched the main body of troops. He drove a party of cavalry into Smithfield, and returned within the time promisedtwo hours. My instructions had now been fulfilled, and the objects of the reconnaissance had been accomplished. It had been ascertained that the enemys cavalry, under command of General Stuart, occupy Martiusburg and the crossing of the Opequon by the roads to that town from Shepherdstown and Leetown, having strong outposts close up to Shepherdstown; that there is probably some infantry at Striders Mill (Leetown crossing of the Opequon), and that the left of the left wing of the enemys army, commanded by General Longstreet, rests on Bunker Hill. Half an hour before the return of Major Curtis, I received directions to return to my camp, near Sharpsburg, the object of the reconnaissance having, it was understood, been accomplished. I was also instructed to fall back simultaneously with General Hancock. I had been in com- munnication with him that day, and had already informed him of the hour (2 p. in.) when I should commence the return march, and, soo Page 88 88 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXT. after I had dispatched this information, I received, a communication from him, stating that his return march would commence about the same hour. The troops marched back in the same order in which they had halted, the regular infantry forming the rear of the column of that arm the cavalry, with two pieces of artillery, bringing up the rear, and its rear guard commanded by Lieutenant Ash. The enemy opened his artillery upon us as the march began, and, with his cavalry skirmishers, followed us to Shepherdstown. Two and a half miles from that place two of his regiments of cavalry charged the rear guard of ours, which, at 40 paces, fired upon them, emptying many saddles of the first platoon, throwing the head of the column into some confusion, and bringing it to a temporary halt. Our cavalry then moved from the road into the fields, and llazletts artillery, in battery, on the road, opened upon the enemys column as it charged over the crest of the hit], and drove it l)ack in disorder. Their loss at this encounter is unknown to me. Their artillery now replied, first directing fire at our guns, and wounding a gunner seriously; then, with solid shot, at our columns of cavalry and the infantry of the rear, but without effect. Here their artillery fire ceased, but their cavalry followed us into Shepherdstown, an dmadea show of charging, but were rapidly driven back by Lieutenant Ash. We were not again molested by them, and had crossed the river by 11 p.m. I regret to be obliged to report the loss of 1 man killed, 9 wounded (2 mortally, who have since died), and 3 missing. A list of them is appended.* The loss of the enemy, so far as positively known, was 4 killed (1 captain, 1 lieutenant, and 2 privates) and 3 wounded. From the number of Enfield rifles found scattered upon the ground where their infantry was posted, in the wood near Kearneysville, the number of wounded there must have been 12 or 15. The above-named loss must have been more than doubled at the attempted cavalry charge. We have 8 prisoners, a list of whom is appended.* It gratified me highly to notice the admirable bearing of all the troops, some of whom have only recently entered the service. I wish particularly to acknowledge the assistance I received from Major Lovell, commanding the brigade of regulars; Major Curtis, commanding the cavalry; Captain McClellan, my assistant adjutant-general; Lieuten- ant Ash, commanding detachment of Fifth U. S. Cavalry, and Lieu- tenant llazlett, commanding the artillery. I have already reported the accomplishment by Major Curtis of the difficult and dangerous duty of advancing, with a small detachment of his cavalry, to Smithfield, and desire likewise to notice the active, en- terprising, and energetic conduct of Lieutenants llazlett and Ash. My warm acknowledgments are due to the officers of my staff, Capt. Carswell McClellan, assistant adjutant-general, and my two volunteer aides, Captain Hopkins, aide to General Briggs, and Mr. II. H. Hum- phreys, for the zealous and intelligent discharge of the duties imposed upon theni. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. A. HUMPHREYS, Brigadier- General, Gomnmanding Reconnaissance. Lieut. Col. FRED. T. LOCKE Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifth Army Gorps. Omitted Page 89 CHAP. XXXI.] ROCONNAISSANCE TO SMITHFIELD, ETC. 89 [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 23, 1862. Respectfully forwarded, for the information of the major-general com- manding the Army of the Potomac. General ilumplireys accomplished in a most satisfactory n~anner the object of the expedition, and carried out most judicionsly the instruc- tions of the commanding general, and was ably seconded by every officer of his command. . F. J. PORTER, Major- General, Commanding. No. 3. Report of General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, commanding Army of Northern Virginia. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, Via Winchester, Va., October 18, 1862. SIR: The enemy, on the 16th, moved in strong forceinfantry, artil- lery, and cavalryfrom Harpers Ferry and the ford below Shepherds- town, on the road to Charlestown and Smithfield, and proceeded to Charlestown and Leetown. Yesterday our cavalry retired, by order, be- fore the enemy. At 3 p. m. yesterday evening, enemy commenced to return, and last night recrossed the ford below Shepherdstown. Withdrew from Charles- town. Our cavalry has resumed its original position. R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War. No. 4. Return of casualties in the Confederate forces in the skirmish near Kear neysville. co~and. JACKSONS DIViSION. Winders brigade: 4th Virginia 3 14 17 5th Virginia 5 5 27th Virginia 1 1 carpenters battery 1 1 Grand total 5 21 2 Page 90 90 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAr. XXXI. OCTOBER 1617, 1862.Reeonnaissance from Harpers Ferry to Charles town, W. Va., and ski~sh en route. REPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Winfield S. Hancock, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Second Army Corps. No. 2.Brig. Gen. John C. Caidwell, U. S. 4rmy, commanding Second Brigade. No. 3.Col. Samuel K. Zook, Fifty-seventh New YQrk Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. No. 4.Col. William R. Lee, Twentieth Massachusetts Infantry, commanding Provis- ional Brigade. No. 5.Maj. Charles J. Whiting, Second U. S. Cavalry. No. 6.Col. Thomas T. Munford, Second Virginia Cavalry, commanding brigade, of skirmish at Charlestown. No. 1. Reports of Brig. Gen. Winfleld S. Hancock, U. S. Army, commandin~q First Division, Second Army CQrps. OCTOBER [10], 1862. I am now in Charlestown. The enemy have taken the right hand road toward Berryville, toward the Shenandoah. I believe they have nothing but horse artillery and cavalry. They now hold a knoll and the Winchester road. As soon as I establish my line beyond the town, I will send the cav- alry forward. I have had 9 men hurt. WINFD S. HANCOCK. General COUCH. OCTOBER 10, 18621 oclock. GENERAL: I cannot ascertain how much cavalry force was here, with any certainty. All numbers are stated, from 200 to five regiments. There were from five to seven guns. The enemys cavalry pickets are moving about to my right and left rear; I therefore have to picket those roads a good deal. This will reduce the cavalry force available to move forward, to about 600 men. This command seems small; still, as I have received no other instructions, I will order Colonel iDevin to proceed. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant. Maj. FRANCIS A. WALKER, [Not signed.] Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps. OCTOBER [16], 1862. On my right, 1 mile to the rear of me, there is a road leading to Shep- herdstown. Two miles distant from my road, toward Shepherdstown, can be seen, it is said, three pieces of artillery and about 60 men. One l)iece fired two shots at our pickets. This matter ought to be investi- gated, but I do not like to detail cavalry from the cavalry command, shortly to move forward, as it would create a good deal of delay. Some of the people here say that Jackson is in command at Bunke Page 91 CHAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO CHARLESTOWN, ETC. 91 Hill, with a strong force. This is from the investigation of Lieutenant Boweii. The enemy left one limber with us. He disabled one piece of our horse artillery; have only three. Your obedient servant, WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. General MARCY, Commanding. OCTOBER 1~7, 186210 a. m. MAJOR: An intelligent negro who had been taken pris~ner from us, and since been employed as a waiter to a captain of the tSeventh Vir- ginia Cavalry, arrived here this morning from Berryville. He left there last night. There is one regiment of cavalry and four pieces of artillery between here and Berryville; at and near Berryville, the Second, Third, Sixth, Seventh, Ninth, and Twelfth Virginia Cavalry; no infantry up to last night; a wagon train of 100 wagons at the junction of the Berry- ville and Winchester pike. The information as to the position of the enemy appears to be the same as yesterday. I send a note containing other information received from same source. Your obedient servant, WJNFD S. HANCOCK, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Major WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITARLESTOWN, October [17], 1862. I have it from reliable authority, I think, that the enemy are in force at Winchester and Bunker Hill. My informant, a good Union man, certified to by Colonel Miles, a Northern man, says they are sending their wagons here every day and taking all the flour and wheat they can find in the country. They are destroying the railroad between here and Winchester. They were expected here to-day for the same purpose. He says there are from 800 to 1,000 cavalry about here and five guns. They have an encampment df cavalry of several regiments 3 miles from here, on the Berryville road. This gentleman says there is a very large force between Bunker Hill and Winchester, although he says he thinks they are packing up, preparatory to a move. This gentleman says he is certain that the enemy were at Winchester yesterday. Your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Brigadier- General, Commandina Division. Major WALKER. P. S.This gentleman is Mr. Riddle, brother-k~i-lawto Colonel Strother (Porte Crayon). HEADQUARTERS HANCOCKS DIVISION, Harpers Perry, Va., October 22, 1862. MAJOR: On the 16th instant, in obedience to instructions, I marched toward Charlestown, Va., with my division and 1,500 men of other divis- ions, under command of Col. NY. H. Lee, Twentieth Massachusetts Vol- unteers, and a force of cavalry, with a battery of four guns (horse artil- lery), Colonel Devin being in command thereof. The advance, unde Page 92 92 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL Maj. C. J. Whiting, Second Regiment Cavalry, consisting of portions of the First, Second, Fifth, and Sixth Regular Cavalry, with the horse artil- lery battery of four guns, under command of Lient. George Dickenson, Fourth Regiment of Artillery, started at daylight, and was immediately followed by the command. The advance of our column encountered the enemys pickets beyond llalltown, drove them in, and pursued until, w hen within short artil- lery range of the high ground this side of Charlestown, th eenemywas found posted. He opened fire upon us with artillery. Our horse artil- lery battery, supported by Capt. M. A. Renos First Cavalry, then en- gaged the enemy, who opened fire from five guns, and deployed dis- mounted cavalry as skirmishers on their front and flanks. The infantry was brought up as soon as practicable and deployed, and our batteries placed in position. An advance was immediately made, Capt. William W. Tompkins battery, Third Regiment Artillery [John A. Tompkins battery, A, First Rhode Island], opening at the same time. We soon ascertained that the enemy had been driven away by the fire of our artillery, together with the threatened attack by the infantry. his force only consisted of the artillery already referred to, with two or three regiments of cavalry. The town was at once taken possession of and the troops suitably disposed for defense. Toward evening our infantry advanced and occupied the heights surrounding the town, within ar- tillery range. The infantry was afterward withdrawn, and the roads guarded by the cavalry. A reconnaissance was then made a distance of several miles, in the direction of Bunker Hill, by the cavalry, under Capt. M. A. Reno, supported by Maj. C. J. Whitings command. Major-General McClellan, commanding the Army of the Potomac, hav- ing arrived in Charlestown shortly after we had occupied it, directed the movements last referred to, and, having obtained all the information for which the reconnaissance was made taken. , no further operations were under- The command remained in Charlestown until about 2 p. m. the next day, when we received orders to return. It then marched to Halltown, and occupied that position during the night. The next morning, after an examination of the roads, and it being found there was no enemy in front, the command returned to Harpers Ferry. Early on the morning of the 16th, I sent one squadron up the railroad as far as Kearneysville. It proceeded to that point without meeting General Humphreys command, as was expected, and, having performed the task assigned it, returned to camp, the commander making his report direct to the commander of the Second Corps d Arm6e. I regret I have not the name of this officer. While in Charlestown I appointed Col. J. R. Brooke, of the Fifty-third PennsylvaniaVolunteers, military governor, the better to preserve order. About 100 officers and soldiers of the ConfederateArmy were found in the town, consisting entirely, it is believed, of surgeons, hospital attendants, convalescents, and sick. Twenty-six were sent to the provost-marshal at Harpers Ferry, and 38 wonuded and unable to be removed, were paroled. Time did not permit the paroling of all who were severely wonuded, as they were scattered throughout the town, requiring more time than we had for the purpose, to find them. The casualties on either side were about equal, and were not numer- ous. I found some parts of artillery carriages belonging to the enemy, which I destroyed. The officers and troops behaved well. Col. J. R. Brooke, command- ing the advance guard of infantry; Mmmj. C. J. Whiting, Second Reg Page 93 ChAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO CHARLESTOWN, ETC. 93 ment Cavalry; Capt. M. A. Reno, First Regiment Cavalry, commanding the supports to the horse artillery; First Lient. George Dickenson, Fourth Artillery, commanding that battery; Second Lient. Arthur Mor- ris, Fourth Artillery, temporarily attached to said battery, and Capt. C. H. Morgan, Fourth Artillery, chief of artillery of the corps, who made the dispositions of the artillery, are the only officers whom it is thought deserve special mention. First Lients. N. Bowen and J. H. Wilson, Topographical Engineers, were present, and afforded me valuable assist- ance. Herewith please find the paroles of prisoners, and the reports of Brig. Gen. J. C. Caldwell, commanding Second Brigade; Col. S. K. Zook, commanding Third Brigade; Col. W. 11. Lee, commanding Third Bri- gade, Second Division, and Maj. C. J. Whiting, Second Cavalry; also report of Lieutenant Ttitzins, provost-marshal of this division. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Maj. FRANCIS A. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Corps dArm~e. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND CORPS, October 25, 1862. This report of Brigadier-General Hancock is respectfully forwarded, and this most excellent officer is especially recommended to the favor- able notice of the commanding general. Captain Sileldon, Sixth New York Cavalry, is the officer who made the dashing reconnaissance to Kearneysville, referred to by General Hancock. D. N. COUCH, illiajor- General. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. John C. 61aldwell, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CALDWELLS BRIGADE, Bolivar Heights, Va., October 20, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my brigade in the reconnaissance of the 16th and 17th instant: Some distance beyond Halitown, where the artillery fire commenced, the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Miles, consisting of the Sixty-first and Sixty-fourth New York Volunteers, was detailed from me, by order of General Hancock, and ordered to report to Colonel Brooke. I drew up two of my three remaining regiments (the Fifth New Hampshire and Seventh New York) in line of battle, on the right of the road, and put the third, the Eighty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, in column of divis- ion behind the center of ihe line. In this order, with skirmishers thrown out well to the front, I advanced to and through Charlestown. Just beyond the village, we halted until about 4 p. in., when, by order, I advanced my skirmishers and line of battle through the woods, nearly 2 miles beyond Charlestown, and remained until relieved by the Sixth New York Cavalry, under Colonel Deviu, when we returned to our for- mer position, on the outskirts of Charlestown. We saw about 50 of the enemys cavalry, which retired as we advanced Page 94 94 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. The next afternoon I was ordered by General Hancock to retire, and withdrew to ilalitown, where I drew up in line of battle, supporting Thomas battery. On Saturday, the 18th, by order, I returned to camp. There were no casualties in my command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN C. CALDWELL, Captain HANCOCK, Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. Assistct nt Adjutant- General, Hancocks Division. No. 3. Report of Cot. Samuel K. Zook, Pifty.seventh New York infantry, corn. manding Third Brigade. HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, HANCOCKS DIVISION, Bolicar Heights, 17a., October 21, 1862. CAPTAIN: On the morning of the 16th instant, this brigade, except the Fifty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, which was detached as ad- vance guard, marched, at sunrise, under orders received the night before, toward Charlestown. On arriving about 1 mile beyond Hailtown, firing was heard in front, and the command halted. Soon after, an order was received to march the brigade to the front and take position ~u and near a wood, to the right of the road, and to detach the Fifty-seventh New York Volunteers to Colonel Brooke, in command of the advance guard, on the left of the road. After placing the Fifty-second and Sixty-sixth New York Volunteers in the woods, and the Second Delaware Volunteers in support of Tompkins battery, to its left, skirmishers were advanced to the farther edge of the timber; and, fin ding this force inadequate, another regiment was asked for, and the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers sent me. After some artillery firing to our left, and half an hours delay, an order was given to advance upon Charlestown, which was executed in battalion columns, with de- ploying intervals. The enemy having been drivell beyond Charlestown, at about Ip. m. another order was received to place my command in line of battle, to the left and a little in rear of the village. This having been executed so that my command stood in rear of the Irish Brigade, another order was received from the general commanding to place two regiments in sup- port of Captain Pettits battery, about 125 yards in advance of General Meaghers command. Having executed this order, and received iu- structions to watch the enemy on our left, their cavalry pickets were observed till about 5 p. m. in and about a strip of wood, a mile distant. At that hour an order was received, through. Lieutenant Mitchell, aide- de-camp, to take a regiment and clear the wood, preparatory to its occupation by our cavalry. This object was effected by the Sixty-sixth New York Volunteers, under the immediate supervision of the colonel commanding the brigade, without loss, and the regiment returned to its former position about dusk, the cavalry having taking possession of the wood as soon as it was cleared. Part of the Twentieth Massachu- setts Volunteers was then ordered to picket the left and front, half a mile from the battery. The night and following morning were passed without incident, with the Sixty-sixth New York and Second Delaware supPorting the battery, and the Fifty-second New York and th Page 95 Cii~. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO CHARLESTOWN, ETC. 95 Twentieth Massachusetts occupying their first position, in rear of the Irish Brigade. About 1 p. m. on the 17th, orders having been received from the general, the Fifty-second and Sixty-sixth New York Volunteers and Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers were drawn off and placed in a wood, to the left and rear of the town, near the road, preparatory to following Caldwells brigade to the rear. The Second Delaware Volun- teers was ordered to remain with the battery, but joined this brigade, by subsequent orders from the general commanding, just as Caidwells command had passed. No interruption occurred on the march till near Halitown, when the command was halted, and, under orders, line of battle was formed by my brigade to the left or south side of the road, sheltered by a wood. Skirmishers were thrown forward to the next wood, in advance, toward Charlestown, to relieve those of General Kim- ball, and were afterward established as pickets. The whole brigade re- mained in this position until about an hour after sunrise on the 18th, when, by the generals order, in conjunction with the remainder of his command, it marched back to camp on Bolivar Heights, without any casualty whatever during the expedition. I am happy to state that the conduct of officers and men was all that could be desired. The regiments under my orders during the reconnaissance were com- manded as follows: The Second Delaware Volunteers, Col. William P. Baily; Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteers, Capt. Ferdinand Dreher; Fifty-second New York Volunteers, Col. Paul Frank Fifty-sevent1~ New York Volunteers, Maj. A. B. Chapman, and Sixty-sixth New York Volunteers, Col. Joseph C. Piuckney. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. K. ZOOK, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. JOHN HANCOCK, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 4. Report of Col. William R. Lee, Twentieth Massachusetts Infantry, corn.. manding Provisional Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., SECOND Div., SECOND Coups, Bolivar, Va., October 23, 1862. CAPTAIN: In compliance with the direction of General Hancock, I have the honor to report the following as the operations of the troops under my command in the late reconnaissance to Charlestown, Va.: To the Twentieth Massachusetts, Seventh Michigan, Forty-second New York, and Fifty-ninth New York, of the brigade under my command, were added the First Minnesota and Seventy-first and Seventy-second Pennsylvania Regiments. The First Minnesota, under command of Lieu- tenant-Colonel Morgan, was detached for skirmishers, nuder command of Colonel Brooke and remained so detached during the reconnaissance. The Twentieth Massachusetts was directed to act with Colonel Zooks brigade at the commencement of the firing, in advance, and was absent from the brigade until the return to camp. When advanced about 1 mile beyond llalltown, I received orders to move forward on the left of the road, in line of battle, and to support batteries then engaged. The Forty-Second New York, the Seventh Michigan, a~d Sey~mty-first Pennsylvania were formed in line of battle Page 96 96 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL and placed under the immediate command of Col. N. J. Hall, Seventh Michigan Volunhiers. The Fifty-ninth New York and Seventy-second Pennsylvania were ployed in column, in rear of the right and left flanks of the line, respectively. After some time, my command. was moved, by the flank, upon the road to the suburbs of Charlestown, where the Seventh Michigan and Seventy-first Pennsylvania were left, nnder Colonel Hall, to support Tompkins battery on the right, and these two regiments, with the Forty-second New York, furnished pickets for the right flank of the town till withdrawn on the next day. The other three regiments were in reserve, near the road. Upon falling back toward camp, my command was the advance guard. The Seventh Michigan and Seventy-first Pennsylvania were deployed as skirmishers for 1,000 yards on each side of the road, until the head of the column arrived before Hailtown, when the former was relieved,and joined the brigade, which was in line of battle on the right of the road. The Seventy-first Pennsylvania remained as pickets during the night, and returned with the brigade to this place in the morning. The troops under my command were not engaged with the enemy, but their behavior was in every respect perfectly satisfactory. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. It. LEE, Colonel, Commanding Third Brigade, Second Dtvsston. Capt. WILLIAM G. MITCHELL, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, flancocks Division. No. 5. Report of Maj. Charles J. Whiting, Second U. S. Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY, October 19, 1862. SIR: The troops nuder my command in the late expedition to Charles- town consisted of a battery of the Fourth U. S. Artillery, commanded by Lieutenant Dickenson; First U. S. Cavalry, 120 sabers, commanded by Captain iReno; Second U. S. Cavalry, 150 sabers, commanded by Cap- tam Gordon, and the Sixth U. S. Cavalry, 300 sabers, commanded by Captain Sanders. Casualties in the battery, 1 man killed and 3 wounded; in the cavalry, mione. The battery was supported by Captain IReno, with his regiment and one squadron of the Sixth Cavalry, dismounted. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. J. WHITING, lIIajor Second Cavalry. General W. S. HANCOCK. No. 6. Report of Col. Thomas T. Munford, Second Virginia Cavalry, command ing brigadc, of skirmish at Charlestown. APRIL 2, 1864. CAPTAIN: I beg leave to report the following as the substance of what occurred at Charlestown, in Jefferson County, October 16, 1862: My brigade was stationed near Cabletown, on the pike between Charles Page 97 CHAP. XXXI.] EXPEDITION TO THOROUGHFARE GAP, ETC. 97 town and Berryville, and picketed from Walpers Cross-Roads, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, to Berrys Ferry. The Twelfth Virginia Cavalry was on picket at Charlestown, under command of Lieut. Col. R. H. Burks. Capt. B. H. Smith,jr., Third Company Richmond Howitzers, was also on picket, supporting Lient. J. W. Carter, of R. P. Chews bat- tery, of my brigade, with one 3-inch rifle gun. Captain S[mith] had two 10-pounder Parrotts of his own and one from Watsons battery. The enemy drove in our pickets early in the morning, with ~ division of in- fantry, artillery, and cavalry. With four pieces of artillery, admirably handled, these gallant officers and men held at bay for four hours the advance of McClellans grand army, and only retired when their ammu- nition was exhausted. Captain Smith at one time, with but two guns, contended with sixteen guns of the enemy, and, while making this splendid defense, lost his foot, and was captured in the town as his last piece was retiring from the field. In this engagement our loss was 2 killed and 3 wounded in the artil- lery. The enemy acknowledge a loss of between 75 and 100 men killed and wounded. The brigade, consisting of the Twelfth, Seventh, Sixth, and part of the Second, was held to support the picket in rear of the town, and when the cavalry retired through the town several members of the Twelfth Cavalry were wounded. We fell back gradually, skirmishing with them, and disputing every foot of ground. General Hancock, of the Yankee army, commanded the advance of their troops occupying the town. They threw out their pickets half a mile, and remained there until the next morning, when they returned hastily to Harpers Ferry. Lieutenant Carter, of Chews battery, was wounded early in the action, but returned to his gun as soon as his wound was dressed. I commend Lieutenant-Colonel Burks, Captain Smith, Lieutenants Carter and L. F. Jones for their gallant defense. Respectfully, your obedient servant, THOMAS T. MUNFOIID, Colonel Second Virginia Cavalry, Commanding Brigade. Capt. JOHN ESTEN COOKE, Assistant Adjutant-General, & e. OCTOBER 1718, 1862.Expedition to Thoroughfare Gap, Va., and skirmish. R~port of Brig. Gen. Julius Stahel, U. S. Army. FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, (Received October 18, 18624.40 p. in.) General BAYARD: The following has just been received and forwarded for your informa- tion: F. SIGEL, Major-General. [Inclosure.] GAINESVILLE, VA., October 18, 1862. General SIGEL: As yesterday stated, I went forward to Upperville to meet the enemy. We found only Captain Gibsons company, and drove in their pickets, 7 R R.-VOL XIX, PT I Page 98 98 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MP., ANI) PA. [C7AL. XXXT. wheu they ran, as they always do. There is iio levee this si(le ot the Shenandoah but these few, who easily forded, on an alarm being given on the other side. There is considerable artillery at Miliwood and hear there. I am informed by prisoners and others that on account of our approach Hills division is ordered down to the Shenandoah. From Up- perville I marched to iRectortown and Salem, driving the enemy before us in all directions, making prisoners of infantry, cavalry, and scents, amounting to about 80 men. From Salem I left at night for White Plains, arriving there at midnight, where we encamped, sending strong detachments, taking possession of Thoroughfare Gap. This morning early I intended to march to Warrenton, to ascertain the force of the enemy there, which is variously stated as being con- siderable infantry and artillery; others as a brigade of cavalry, and others as only a small force of cavalry. Just as I was making my prep. arations, some of the pickets came in with the news that some wagons, with a small escort, with provisions, were captured by 400 rebels early in the morning. A few minutes afterward, one man came in confirming the news, and that the enemy were advancing in strong force through Thoroughfare Gap. Shortly after, the report came in that my force were driven out of the gap, and that the enemy were advancing with artillery and a large force of cavalry, and in possession of the gap. I at once took a strong advance guard of Colonel Wyndhams command and pushed for the gap, and, after skirmishing, with a loss of 1 or 2 men and horses and 1 captain wounded, we d rove them through the gap and followed them up to Hay Market. The enemy retreated, at full run, and I am following them up as closely as the condition of my horses will allow. I will send you farther report as soon as any news comes in. I send in one of the enemys caissons full of ammunition. The number of our prisoners altogether amounts to 80 and more. I will send in a full account at a more convenient time. I hope to send you good reports to-night, as I am hard in pursuit, and they retreating at full run on every road. JUL. STAHEL, Brigadier- General. OCTOBER 21, 1862.Reconnaissance from Loudoun Reights to Lovetts- ville, Va., and skirmishes en route. REPORTS. No. l..Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac. No. 2.Brig. Gen. John W. Geary, U. S. Army. No. 1. Report of 3faj. (len. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac. HEADQUARTERS AR1~IY OF THE POTOMAC, October 21, 18626 p. m. (Received 7.20 p. in.) The expedition which started last night after the rebel foraging party, near Lovettsville, is just heard from. We captured 28 prisoners, with their horses and arms, including a captain; killed, 10. Onr loss was I man killed and 3 or 4 slightly wounded. This was (lone l)y a detach- ment of Devins cavalry, under Colonel Denim Page 99 ChAT. Xxxi.] RECONNAISSANCE TO LOVETTSVILLE, ETC. 99 I have ju~t receive(1 reliable information that no force of the enemy have passed through Snickers (hip from Winchester; merely foraging parties. There is probably a force of some 10;000 rebels on the road from Ber- ryville to Snickersville, near the north bank of the Shenandoah. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gem John W. Geary, U. S. Army. HDQRS. SECOND Divisiox, TWELFTH ARMY Coups, Loudoun Heights, Va., October 22, 1802. COLONEL: About midnight of the 20th I received orders from Major- General Burnside to proceed on a tour of reconnaissance. I have the honor to furnish the major-general commanding with a copy of my re- l)ort of the result of the same. The orders for me to proceed on a tour of reconnaissance toward Lov. ettsville were received abont 12.30 oclock on the morning of the 21st. I have the honor to report that my column, consisting of portions of the First and Second Brigades and Knaps Pennsylvania battery, of th4s division, and about 300 of the Sixth New York Cavalry, ordered to re- port to me for the occasion, was put in motion about 2.30 oclock. We l)roceeded up the valley lying between the Blue Ridge and Short Hills, by the Hillsborough and Harpers Ferry turnpike, passing through Neersville to Hillsborough, at which place we expected to meet a con- siderable number of the enemy, as I learned, on our way there, that they had been there on the evening previous; but,on our arrival, I found that they had been hastily recalled to Snickersville, where they had returned during the night. Just beyond Hillsborough we captured several rebel cavalry scouts. I there learned that a portion of the ene- mys cavalry was in the neighborhood of Morrisonville, where I sent about 200 infantry and 100 cavalry upon a road leading directly to it, and pushed forward rapidly with the main body to Wheatland, and ex- tended my line eastwardly, toward Waterford, catting off all commu- nications upon the roads running south. The main body of the cavalry then proceeded toward Lovettsville, and fell in with a portion of Whites cavalry battalion, under Capt. 11. B. Grubb, drawn up in line of battle, on the edge of a wood, upon the Glenmore firm, about 1 ~ miles north of Wheatland, and with sharpshooters on the tops of hay-stacks. The (letachment of the cavalry remaining with me (about 200), led by Lieu- tenant-Colonel MeVicar, impetuously charged upon the enemy, who resisted them but a short time and then beat a hasty retreat, closely l)ursued by our cavalry for several miles in a running fight. The enemy finally scattered in all directions, and during their retreat closed several gates, to impede our pursuit. A few well-directed shells were thrown among them. Our loss was 1 killed and 2 wounded. That of the enemy, 2 knowmi to be killed and 12 wounded, and, no doubt, others, who escaped, were also wounded. The list I furnish in Appendix A. Of prisoners we too Page 100 100 OPERA~rIOtS IN N. VA., W. VA., MP., AND PA. [ChAP. X~Xt. 2 officers and 20 men (Appendix B). Of these Jacob H. Rol~ertson was so badly wounded that 1 paroled him. This cavalry organization was notorious for its numerous depredations on the property of Union people in Loudoun County, and lately for con- scripting for the rebel army. Our cavalry exhibited much bravery in their charge, and throughout conducted themselves admirably. Colonel Devin, their commander, Lieutenant-Colonel McVicar, and Major Carwardine, are deserving of much approbation for their display of gallantry and ability. Iii the charge Lieutenant-Colonel McYicar, who led it, had his horse shot under him, and received a bullet through his coat. The infantry and artillery evinced, upon the long march of 35 miles, a highly commendable spirit of alacrity, and great desire to be brought into action. The rebel captain and some of his men were clothed in our uniform, a growing practice, so reprehensible that it should meet with condign punishment, as the deception engendered is always apt to cost lives and disasters. The column marched to Lovettsville and encamped for the night, and, resuming the journey, the expedition reached Loudoun Heights shortly after noon to-day. Upon the march we arrested a number of citizens, who had United States military property in their possession, taken at Harpers Ferry. I have turned over the prisoners of war to the l)lovost- marshal at Harpers Ferry, the horses to Major-General Buruside, afl(1 the arms and accouterments taken to the ordnance officer of the division. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. W. GEARY, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Lient. Col. H. C. RODGERS Assistant Adjutant- General, Twelfth Army corps. OCTOBER 24, 1862.Skirmishes at Nanassas Junction and near Bristoe Station, Va. Reports of ]1Thj. Gen. Franz Sigel, U. S. Army, commanding Eleventh Army Corps. IIDQRS. ELEVENTH CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Fairfax Court-House, October 25, 1862. No news from Leesbnrg yet. Cavalry detachment from Aldie reports a small rebel party of 8 in that town on Thursday. They saw a bright light last night in the direction of Leesburg at 8.45 p. in., for three minutes, when it was extinguished. A party from Gainesville and [New] Baltimore, Hay Market and Thoroughfare Gap, under Major Stedman, of the Sixth Ohio Cavalry, returned this morning, and reports a force of 100 men at New Baltimore. The party proceeded through the gap, and was fired upon on their return by guerrillas, wounding 2 of our men severely. Major Stedman reports the Manassas Gap Railroad in good running order to Front Royal. A reconnaissance was sent out day before yesterday, under Captain Conger, Third Virginia Cavalry, by way of Davis Ford, to Dumfiies, Stafford Springs, and Warrenton Junction, with orders to return, by way of Catletts Station and Bristoc Station, to Manas- sas Junction, where a detachment of the First Vermont Cavalry, unde Page 101 101 CHAP. XXXI.] SKIRMISHES AT MANASSAS JUNCTION, ETC. Captain Flint, was stationed, for Captain Congers support. At the same time a detachment of the Maryland cavalry was sent to Bristoe Station, which detachment, having left that place, arrived at Manassas Junction at 2 oclock p. m. yesterday, when immediately the whole force at that place was attacked and driven back, with a loss of 2 officers (Lieutenant Patterson and Lientenant Dorsey, First Maryland Cavalry) and 15 men. At 4 p. in., Captain Conger, coming from Catletts Station toward Bristoe Station, with about 40 men, was attacked abont 2 miles south of Bristoes Station by a force of 125 rebel cavalry, which he routed, his force returning by way of Manassas Junction to this place. This morning I am sorry to report that I lost the service, of Captain Conger, his horse, during the fight, becoming disabled, and his brother (First Lieutenant Conger, of the Third Virginia Cavalry) and 1 man of the company only being missing. Twelve of the enemys saddles, at least, have been emptied. We captured 2 prisoners and 3 horses. It seems that the enemy advanced from Warrenton Junction, with a strong force, to reconnoiter our advanced position, sending 150 men to ManaSsas Junction, and 125 men to Bristoc Station, the whole force evidently returning to Warrenton Junction. I have further learned from refugees and other reliable sources that the enemy has a ferce of 2,000 cavalry, con- sisting of the Second North Carolina, Seventh and Twelfth Virginia, a small detachment of infantry, with some artillery, at Warrenton. The strength of the infantry force is given variously from one company to two regiments. No force but strong pickets at Warrenton Junction, Rappahannock Station, and Fredericksburg. No re-enforcements what- ever have been sent lately from Winchester to Warrenton. The rebels have only been running two trains this week to Warrenton Junction and Warrenton. Our scouts are sent in different directions. Shall report when they return. It would be of the utmost importance to have a signal corps attached to this corps, or at least two or three signal officers. F. SIGEL, Major- General. Major-General BANKS. (Repeated by Banks to McClellan, 8.15 p. in.) FAIRFAX CoURT.HoUSE, October 27, 1862. Captain Dahlgren, of my staff, returned from an expedition to Catletts Station. He found the pickets of the enemy on the other side of Cedar Run, small patrols only having been lately to Greenwich and Bristoe. Captain Conger, of the Third Virginia Cavalry, was seriously wounded in the engagement last Friday, and lies in a farm-house near Bristoe Station. Lieutenant Conger and 2 privates were taken prisoners and sent to Culpeper. Captain Conger fought with his small force (of about 30 men) a very strong force of the enemy (about 200). The enemy had 1 captain killed and 2 captains wounded,besides having7or8pri- yates killed and quite a number wounded. F. SIGEL, Generals BANKS and IIEINTZELMAN. (Repeated to McClellan, 11 a. in. Page 102 102 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. WA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 10, l862..Operations in Loudoun, Fauquier, and Rappahannock Counties, Va. SUAMIMARX~ OIF TIIE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. Oct. 27, 1862.Skirmish at Snickers Gap. 29, 1862.Skirmish near Upperville. 31, l862.Skirmish at Snickersyille. Skirmish at Aldie. Skirmish near Mountville. Nov. 1, l862.Skirmish at Phulomont. Skirmish at Berrys Ford Gap. 2, 1862.Skirmish at Castlemans Ferry, near Snickers Gap. 2 3, l862.Skirmishes at Union and Upperville. :i, 1862.Skirxnish at Ashbys Gap. Reconnaissance to, and skirmish at, Snickers Gal). 4, 1862.Skirmish at Markhams Station. Skirmish at Manassas Gap. Skirmish at Salem. 5, l862.Action at Barbees Cross-Roads. Skirmish near Warrenton. 5 6, lS62.Reconnaissance to Manassas Gap, and skirmish. 6, l862.Skirmish at Warrenton. 7, l862.Skirmish at Rappahannock Station. Skirmish at Waterloo Bridge. Skirmish at Jefferson. 8, 1862.Skirmish at Rappahannock Station. Skirmish at Little Washington. Skirmish at Hazel River. Skirmish near Warrenton. Affair near Snickersyille. 9, l862.Skirmishes near Rappahannock Station. Skirmish at Newbys Cross-Roads. Skirmish at Philomont. 10, 1862.Action at Corbins Cross-Roads, uearAmissville. Skirmish at Gaines Cross-Roads. Skirmish at Markhams Station. H1~PORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Poto- mac, of action at Barbees Cross-Roads and skirmish at Manassas Gal). No. 2.Brig. Gen. Alfred Pleasonton, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Divisioi. No. 3.Col. David McM. Gregg, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations October 26November 22. No. 4.Lient. Col. J. William Hofmann, Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry, of skir- mishes at Union and Upperville. No. 5.Lient. Col. Horace B. Sargent, First Massachusetts Cavalry, of reconnais- sance to, and skirmish at, Snickers Gap. No. 6.Capt. John D. OConnell, Fonrteenth U. S. Infantry, of reconnaissance to, and skirmish at, Snickers Gap. No. 7.Brig. Gen. George D. Bayard, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade, of skirmishes at Monntville, Aldie, and near Rappahannock Station. No. 8.Brig. Gen. A. Sanders Piatt, U. S. Army, of reconnaissance to Manassas Gap, dnd skirmish Page 103 CHAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 103 No. 9.Lient. Col. James S.Fillebrown, Tenth Maine Infantry, of affair near Snick- ersyille. No. 10.General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, of action at Corbins Cross-Roads, near Amissville. No. 11.Ma,j. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart, C. S. Army, commanding cavalry, of operations October 30November 6. No. 12.Lieut. Col. J. B. Gordon, First North Carolina Cavalry, of action at Bar- bces Cross-Roads. No. 13.Maj. Elijah V. White, Virginia Cavalry Battalion, of skirmish at Philomont. No. 14.Col. Thomas L. Rosser, Fifth Virginia Cavalry, commanding Lees brigade, of action at Corbins Cross-Roads, near Amissville. No. 1. RE port of MaJ. Gem George B. McClellan, U. ~. Army, commanding Army of the Potomac, of action at Barbces Cross-Roads and skirmish at Ma- JEassas Gap. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE P OTOiXIAC, Near Rectortown, November 511.20 p. in., Via Gainesville, Va., November 6, 18627 a. m. I have the honor to report that the last corps of this army (General Franklins) finished crossing the Potomac at Berlin on Monday, the 3d instant. Upon the preceding day Snickers Gap had been occupied by General Couchs corps without serious opposition. This corps was relieved the same day by General Porters corps, which still occupies the gap. Yesterday General Couchs corps took possession of Aslibys Gap, and now hold it. ~f he enemy appears in some force opposite Snickers Gap. He al)andoned his position in front of Ashbys Gap last night, and is reported to have gone in the direction of Front Royal. General Burnsides command is posted l)etweeli Piedmont and Salem. General Reynolds is on his left and rear. General Franklin is east of Upperville, on the Aldie and Ashbys Gap turnpike. General Pleas- onton, with his brigade of cavalry, has for several days past been skir- mishing constantly with the enemys cavalry, supported at times by infantry, at Upperville and vicinity. About 12 in. to-day he met and attacked General Stuarts command, of about 3,000 rebel cavalry and four pieces of artillery, at Barbees. Colonel Gregg, Eighth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry, with that regiment and the Sixth Regular Cavalry, iiioved on the right of the enemy, and turned his l)osition. Colonel l)avis, Eighth New York Cavalry, with his regiment attacked the ene- mys left, and Colonel Farnsworth, with the Eighth illinois Cavalry, moved against the center. Penningtons battery in the mean time Cli- gaged him by sections. A largely superior force charged Colonel Davis Eighth New York Cavalry, but were gallantly met and repulsed. A sec- tion of artillery then opened upon the fugitives. The enemy left 10 dead upon the field, and lost 20 prisoners. We took a number of carbines and pistols. Our loss was 5 killed (General Pleasontons command num- bered about 1,500 present on the field) and 8 wounded. In the engage- muent Colonel Davis, Eighth New York Cavalry, had his horse killed under him. General Averell encountered a force of the enemy this morning at the mouth of Manassas Gap, and drove them back into the l)ass, where they took up a position, supported by artillery. General Averell, being without support, could not pursue them farther into the ~nountains. He has now gone to loin Pleasonton at Sandy Hook, nea Page 104 104 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. Chesters Gap. A brigade of Burnsides corps relieved his command at mouth of Maiiassas Gap. General Bayard with his cavalry is in front of Salem. I am in communication with General Sigel. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, His Excellency ABRAHAM L~COLN, Major.General, Commanding. President of the United States. No. 2. Reporis of Brig. Gen. A ifred Pleasonton, U. S. Army, commanding Gay- airy Division. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Lovettsville, Va., October 26, 1862li a. m. GENERAL: My command, with the exception of the Eighth New York, which has not joined me, has arrived at this place, and I am passing through to a camp 3 or 4 miles in advance. Everything appears quiet about here. The rebels have had scattering parties of horse-thieves through this vicinity in the last few days. Unless I receive further orders, I shall start in th~ morning for Pur. celiville. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. Brig. Gen. Ii. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. MORRISON-VILLE, October 27, 18627 a. m. GENERAL: My command stopped in front of this place last night, on the Purcellville road. My advance was 2# miles farther on, and a scout- ing party proceeded as far as Pnrcellville, bnt did not meet or hear of any rebels in that vicinity. iDay before yesterday, a foraging party of one regiment of infantry, one of cavalry, and a section of artillery came within 2 miles of this place, and took away a train of forage and grain from the farm of a General Wright, a noted secessionist. In this valley, up as far as Middleburg, there is an abundance of hay and forage. The foraging party of day before yesterday went out by Snickersville Gap. There are a good many Union people in this county (Londoun), and some organization of them would be advantageous to protect themselves from rebel guerrillas, as well as rascals of our own, who are prowling over the country; besides, it wouJd enable theni to re- strain their secesh neighbors, who appear to be very violent at times. Have found an excellent map of Loudoun County, by Yardley Taylor. It has the. name of every mans residence in the county and all the roads properly marked. It would be well to have this map photographed if you have not one equally as good. Last night was very hard on my men and horses. I shall proceed to Purcellville to-day and scout ir~ that vicinity, and await further orders Page 105 CHAP. XX~.] OPERATIONS iN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 105 It is reported that A. P. Hill is near Snickersville with a force, and has proclaimed martial law. A Union man told me the rebel army at Winchester was in a miserable condition. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, ctc. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY. OCToBER 27, 18621.15 p. in. GENERAL: Your dispatch of this date* is just received. I am now within 4 miles of Pnrcellville, and think it best to proceed on than to turn back to my old camp. I shall send TOll word this evening if there is any force in the vicinity of Snickersville. Everything is quiet, as far as I can learn. Would it not be well to inform me of the whereabouts of Sigels troops and of others I may come in contact with? Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, & c. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 27, 18621.30 p. ii. GENERAL: My advance drove some rebel cavalry pickets out of this l)lace, and find a small force some 2~ miles from this on the road to Snickersville. I have sent the Eighth New York, ColonelDavis, to see what they have and what force there is at Snickersville. I am inclined to believe it is only a small cavalry force, and that they have nothing of any consequence on this side of the Shenandoah. Shall I send for my wagons? Rations are out to-morrow. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, General MARCY. Brigadier- General. PURCELLYILLE, October 27, 18624 p. in. The two squadrons of Sixth Cavalry I sent out this morning now occupy flillsborough, having had a skirmish with the rebels and lost a corporal, taken prisoner by his horse falling. It is reported that Munford is at Snickersville, with infantry, cavalry, and artillery. I shall soon know. Very respectfully, - A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, ct-c. General MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 27, 18627 p. m. Colonel Davis, Eighth New York, reports having driven the enemy through Snickersyille, and that his advance was fired on from the gap, ~nd he lost 1 man killed and 5 horses by the bursting of a shell. The Not fou~i4 Page 106 106 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ICIIAr. XXXL Pal) is a strong position, and will require considerable force to dislodge them. He saw no infantry force. The Eighth illinois captured 2 rebel cavalry soldiers this afternoon in the direction of Phulomont. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, & c. General MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 27, 18627.15 p. in. Your dispatch of 12 m. received.* Shall send out in the morning in the direction you speak of. It is probable Longstreet passed through Aslibys Gap, and that they wish to hold Snickersville CTap for some pur- ~)ose, as there is also a road from Snickersville to Aldie through Philo- mont. The road is good to this place, and it would be well to push some brigades of infautry this way. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, & c. General 1~. 13. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 28, 18629.15 a. in. Information, through Union people, place8 Hills command at Upper- ville, and that troops have been passing through that place for some days. Their pickets extend as far as the Snickersville and Aldie turn- l)ike, over which they do not allow any one to pass north or south. I judge they are holding Snickersville Gap until they have time to pass through Ashbys, which is the next. I have l)arties in the direction of Aldie and Middleburg, and shall soon know more. It would be well to send some infantry and force these fellows out of Snickersville Gap. My force is too small to do that and cover the roads in front. Indeed, more cavalry here just now would be of the greatest service. I have the country covered to the Catoctin Mountains, this side of Leesburg. Everything appears quiet toward Leesbnrg. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, & c. General 1~. B. MARCY. P. S.I sent you the ifl~l) of Loudoun County last night. i)id you get ito? PURCELLYILLE, October 28, 1S621 .10 p. in. My scouts drove the enemys pickets out of Philomont this morning, oi the Snickersville and Aldie road, and they took the direction of Aldie. A considerable force is reported at Middleburg. The rebels have a signal station on the mountain to the north of Snickersville. Philomont is some 7 miles from here. My people are pushing on toward Aldie for more information. Very ~spectfnlly, ~. IPLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, ~ General MARCY. * Not foI~nl Page 107 CHAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 107 PURCELLVILLE, October 28, 1862.6.30 p. in. Two young men have been brought in by my pickets, who say they left Martinsburg last Thursday, and passed through Winchester; that all the rebel army was at Martinsburg, except Jackson, Lon gstreet, and Hill, who were at Winchester; that at Winchester they saw 2,500 men with small-pox, who were to be sent to Staunton; Stuarts two bri- gades of cavalry were at Berryville, between Winchester and Charles- town; that yesterday morning Walkers brigade was at Upperville; that this brigade had been picked from the whole rebel army. At Snickersvil]e they saw one company of Second Virginia Cavalry and one piece of artillery. Shall send them, with o tlaer prisoners, to head- quarters, to be examined.. My scouts captured a rebel signal-sergeant this afternoon, hear the mountain. A Union man told me to-day that Longstreet was at Upperville, and occupied Paris, Bloomfield, and Middleburg. My people are not yet in from Aldie. A 1)art of Stoneinans force is at Lcesbnrg. Very resl)cctcully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, & c. General H. 13. MARCY. PURCELLVILLE, October 28, 18629 p. m. Mv scouts are back from Aldie and Middlebur~. No rebel troops at either place; about 100 paroled wounded and sick. A rebel doctor, in charge at Aldie, showed the officer an order of General Lees, dated at Winchester, October 27, directing him to remove the sick and wounded from Aldie and Middleburg to Winchester, and to impress wagons for their transportation. This my officer prohibited, and some of Sigels cavalry coming up, he left them on picket there to l)revent it. Walkers brigade is between Upperville and Middleburg. The Geor- ja battalion of cavalry, some 800 strong, is at Union. At Snickersville Gap there are two guns and a brigade of infantry in the mountains. The roads are fine, and the country rolling and open about here. In my dispatch of 6.30 p. in. I should have said Longstreet, Hill, amid Jackson were at Bunker Hill, instead of Winchester. The cavalry driven out of llillsborough yesterday was Whites In- dependent Cavalry. The rebel troops in this valley are evidently on foraging expeditious. The people generally are strong secesh. Very respectfully, A. PLEA SONTON, Brigadier- General, & c. General MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 28, 18629.30 l~- m. Numbers of the SecessionistS in this country are trying to send off their horses to the rebel cavalry. alm(1, to l)1exrcIIt this, I have beei~ obliged to take the horses Pr the (loveiuiiueiit sevy jce Page 108 108 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., \V. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. Please inform me if the general desires other action in these cases. It is the only efficient check I have at this tune. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, ~c. General R. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 29, 18629 a. in. My pickets report the rebels were making signals throughout the night from the mountain, near Snickersville Gap. Yesterday, below Aldie, the women on Fairfiux place threw stones at my command, and waved a secesh flag. This was a littl~ too much, so the officer made them give up the flag, much to their disgust. This side of Union a rebel foraging party of one regiment of infantry and one of cavalry was turned back, making up this way. I hear this morning there is another brigade with Walkers, near Upperville. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General MARCY. P. S.An officer from picket has just come in to report that a Union Quaker, who escaped yesterday from the rebels, told hima lie saw Long- street at Upperville (lay before yesterday; that he had 18,000 men, and that his soldiers said they were going to Manassas. PURCELLYILLE, October 29, 18621 p. in. A negro boy has just con~e in, who has run away, his master being about to send him off to the rebel army. This boy was at Winchester last Thursday. Says the soldiers talked about filling back toward the Itappahannock. Heard his young master say there would be a move of the rebel army soon. The soldiers had a hard time at Winchester; did not get anything to eat sometimes for several days; getting tired of the war. Soldiers said that General Lee would not exchange any more Loudoun County soldiers, they were so worthless. Shall send him to headquarters. My pickets captured a spy this morning, who, if guilty, ought to be shot, for this is the only way to make these people behave themselves. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, ct~c. General R. B. MARCY. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Pareellville, October 29, 18622.15 p. in. My pickets, on the Catoctin Mountain, saw the rebel camp-fires at Middleburg last night. They were about 1 mile long. A Quaker (Union) told them this morning there was about 12,000 infantry and cavalry at Middleburg. The fires were put out in a short time. A negro who came through Snickersville Gap on Monday, when my advance was driven back, says it was well we did not try to go on, as they had cannon all the way up the gap, and were bringing more, under the impression our army intended to cross at that point. The forc Page 109 CHAP. ~XXT.1 OP~ATIONS IN LOtJDOUN COtJNPY, UC. 109 there, he says, was infantry. It looks as if the force at Middleburg was making its way to Aldie, to go to Manassas. I shall send in that quarter to-morrow, and will find out. My force to-day is too occupied to permit it. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTOK, Brigadier- General. General H. B. MARCY. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Purceliville, October 29, 18628.15 p. m. A citizen of Maryland, from Winchester to-day, has just been brought in by my pickets, who states that lie escaped from prison this morn- ing, as they were releasing some Federal prisoners, and crossed the Shen- andoah below Snickers Gap. He reports the rebel army moving from Winchester to Staunton; that there are only 200 infantry and three regiments of cavalry now in Winchester, doing provost duty over pris- oneis. The rebel army, he says, is in wretched condition; that pro- visions are very high, and bread and beef are the only issues. I think this man is a deserter from Stuarts cavalry, who probably joimied him in his late raid and is tired of his bargain. A Union gentleman from Waterford told me to-day that he was in Winchester some ten days ago, and that he saw a provost guard called to arrest a suspected person, and that out of the 10 men of the guard 6 were barefooted, and that this was the average condition of their army. lie thought the soldiers looked dispirited. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General H. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 30, 18624 a. m. GENERAL: Have just received a dispatch from General Bayard, near Aldie, who says that Colonel Wyndham drove the enemys pickets out of Upperville to-day. No infantry there; it is reported to have gone to Snickersville. Bayard states that to-morrow he marches through Hopewell Pass on Middleburg. if Longstreet was at Middteburg last night, and has not returned to the Blue Ridge, Bayard will meet him at Middleburg, unless Long- street has made for Thoroughfare Gap, on his way to Manassas. I have mentioned this to Bayard. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General II. B. MARCY. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Purceilville, October 30, 18624.45 p. m. GENERAL: Your dispatch of 10 a. m. is received.* Not knowing the exact whereabouts of General Bayard at this time, I have sent an aide- de-camp with the contents of your dispatch to the general, requesting to know where I shall meet him; and, to save time, have given him my *Not found Page 110 110 ()~PERATLON8 iN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., ANT) PA. fCrrAr. xxxt. vies in advaiice, viz It would ~e iiiisafP to leave Sit ickers Gaj) occu- pied by the enemy, to proceed south. Whatever lie may (ICCide upon 1 shall use my best efThrts to render successful. I would, however, be doing myself an injustice, general, iii not ex- pressing to you my mortification at receiving your instructions placing me under the orders of an officer so much lily junior in the army and in the service, and who does not belong to the Army of the Potomac. While in that army I am the senior officer, serving with the cavalry. My personal relations with General Bayard are most friendly, and I shall not mortify him by exposing my own. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigad6. General 11. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 31,18627.30 a. m. Your dispatch of 8p.m. received.* I sent you word by signal last night that my aide found General Bayard 20 miles from here, beyond Aldie; that General Bayard concurred in my views, viz, that it would not be safe to move on and leave Snickersville in the enemys possession; that he had appointed an interview for 9 oclock this morning at Philomont, to plan an attack on Snickersville. This was rendered unnecessary by your dispatch of 10.45 p. m.,~ desiring no attack to be made until more troops are on this side of the Potomac. This last request I have sent to General Bayard, for his information. I have given him all the knowledge I possess concerning the enemy. He sent me word that the rebels (lay before yesterday had sent 1,000 cavalry from Warrenton to Ashbys Gap, but that they went off from there yesterday. As soon as any infantry comes up, I shall send toward Ashby, and see what force they have there. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General B. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 31, 186212 m. GENERAL: My aide has just retllrne(1 from I~hilomont, where he saw General Bayard, who informed him he was about to move his head- quarters back from Aldie 12 miles, to a place called Shylock, on the same pike; his advance pickets will be at Aldie; Stonemans, from Leesburg, will be where the Aldie and Snickersville pike crosses Goose Creek; mine will be at I~hilomont. This covers the entire line across to the Catoctin range. General Bayard sent over the Itichinond I)ispatch of the 25th of October. I have sent itto you by Captain Custer. General Bayard wishes to have the paper returned when you have finished wifli it. Shall keep in communication with Bayard, that our movements may conform to each other. There are two roads up the Blue Ridge to the right and left of Snick- ers Gap, about 5 miles front the gap omi either side. They will require some work for artillery. For 2~ miles on the top of the mountain north of the gap there is a good road. The roads on the west side are much * Not found Page 111 CirAr. xxxr.j OPERAfIONS IN LOUI)OUN COUNTY, ETC. ill better than on this, and heavy loads can he (Irawn over theni. This makes me incline to the opinion that the enemy will make a stand at this point. I have two strong parties out reconnoitering to-day, aud shall report their return. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTOT, Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. General MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 31, 18624 p. in. GENERAL: One of my squadrons has returned, and reports having driven in the enemys pickets on the Snickersville and Aldie pike, cap- turing two carbines and two sabers; the rebels dropped them in their haste; they took to the mountains. Several Union men told the party that Stuart, with his cavalry and four pieces of artillery, crossed last night into this valley and took the road to Union. He left twelve pieces of artillery in the gap. Some of Stuarts men said they were going round toward Leesburg. The party report the Snickers Gap, from what they saw of it, as a much rougher one than the South Mountain. They also report a force on the mountain watching the gap road, some 5 miles south of Snick- ersville. Bayards scouts ought to hear something of Stuart to-day. The Quakers still report a rebel force on the other side of the mount- ain, opposite Snickersville. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. General IR. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, October 31, 18628.30 p. in. GENERAL: My scouts are just in from the mountain north of Snick- ersville. They succeeded in reaching the top, and had a view of the Shenandoah River. Large camps were on this side of the river, on the Snickers Gap road. The signal station has been taken away from the mountain. They hhard the rumble of artillery in the gap. From several sources I hear there is about 6,000 men in the gap. All accounts agree that infantry is necessary to take possession of this gap. The road up the mountain north of the gap will require work. I am, general, very respectfully, A. PLEA SONTON, Brigadier- General. General R. B. MARCY. P. S.i have advanced my pickets to-day within I~ miles of Snick- ersville. [PURCELLYILLE, October 31, 1862.] (Sent 10 P. in.) GENERAL: I sent you a dispatch stating Stuarts cavalry had com- pelled my aide-dc-camp to General Bayard to return to Philomont. The officer has arrived in camp, and states Stuart took the road to Aldie Page 112 112 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CIAP. XXXL and that there was a heavy and rapid cannonading at Aldie for some time this p. m. These must have been Bayards gnus, as no guns were seen with Stnart. Bayard has a force of 5,000 cavalry and four guns. With this force he should be able to handle Stuart roughly. Stuart left a picket behiud him on the turnpike, which will probably leave to-night. I was not able to communicate the generals instructions to Bayard in consequence of these events. Please answer this message as soon as you receive it at Berlin. A. PLEASONTON, J3rigadier.General. General R. B. MARCY. WHEATLAND, [November 1 [f], 186212.20 a. m. (Sent at 4 a. in.) GENERAL: Your dispatch of 10 p. m. received.* Enemy still in force at Snickers Gap. They showed a strong force of cavalry at dusk. One of my parties lost; a man, captured by them. There is a road on top of the mountain that turns the gap. I reconnoitered it this evening, and found it occupied by enemys infantry. This is through signal station. Brigadier- General. General IR. B. MARCY. PURCELLYILLE, November 1, 18628.15 a. m. GENERAL: Your dispatches of 7 and 9 p. m. received.* I am just starting for Philomont. Shall push my reconnaissance as [far] toward Upperville as I can to-day. Have~ not heard from General Bayard. Have sent an aide to him this morning, if he can get through. I send you Colonel Greggs statement concerning the men he wants for Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, according to your request. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier.General. General MARCY. PIHLoMoNT, November 1, 186211.30 a. m. GENERAL: My command has arrived at this point, and I am now send- ing out scouts in different directions. About 100 of Stuarts rebel cav- alry left this place hastily on our advance, and took the road to Middle. burg. I am told there is a force of rebel cavalry and infantry at Upper- x-ille. Have not heard yet from General Bayard. My force is so small (not over 1,500 men) that I find myself obliged to work my men very hard to do the duty required of them. For want of horses, the dismounted men left behind have not come up, and many of my old horses are becoming unfit for service, by disease called rotten-hoof. Yesterday Stuart captured a number of First Rhode Island Cavalry * Not found Page 113 CHAP. XXXII OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 113 (Stonemaiis) beyond this place; some say a squadron, but I doubt that number. Could not that regiment be sent to me ~ They are only cov- ering the ground I now go over, and are in my way. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. General MARCY. P. S.My scouts have gone to Union and Bloomfield. This position at Philomont is a very goo(l one. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Union, November 2, 18622 p. m. GENERAL: Penningtons battery is getting out of ammunition. He wants 300 Schenki percussion and 303) Schenki combination fuse, to be obtained from Colonel Hays reserve artillery park. Please have this forwarded at once. Stuart has about 4,000 cavalry and five guns, so a Union man here tells me. Averell has passed Philomont and is coming up. Colonel Davis captured 3 prisoners this morning, and thinks he has had 2 men badly wounded. I a~m pushing the enemy on the Upperville road. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, One mile begond Union, November 2, 18623.30 p. in. GENERAL: Please direct that Penningtons battery be furnished with 1,200 rounds of ammunition as soon as possible. He is nearly out. Stuart brought up a fresh battery this afternoon, and we had consider- al)le firing before he drew off. The caisson that exploded was full of ammunition, and they were compelled to leave the hind pai-t of the cais- son on the held. I have had 2 men killed and 2 wounded, and 4 01 5 horses knocked over. Union is deserted almost of its people. One old fellow told us he was Union, but that if we administered the oath of allegiance to him it must be done very quietly. He said Stuart had 4,000 cavalry, but I think he saw double. We have takeu at least 10 of Stuarts wounded he has left behind. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General IR. B. MARCY. P. S.I shall camp near here to await Penningtons ammunition. Please hurry it up. I expect Averell to join me soon. [UNION, VA.], November 2, 18628 p. m. A citizen of Sandy Hook has just informed me that Longstreets corps passe(l here ou Thursday last, and that lie (himself) was at Front Royal 8 U UVOL XIX, PT I Page 114 114 OPERATIONS TN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. r~HAF. XXXT. yesterday, and saw hiPs corps there (did not know which Hill), and that this corps was to pass Chester Gap to-day, but (lid not come through; that he had heard they had gone to Snioketown. He says there are some infantry and four guns in the gap. Did not know of any more troops in this vicinity. I shall look out for them to-morrow. A. PLEASONTON, [General R. B. MARCY, [Br4iadier-Genera 1.] Chief of Staff] NOVEMBER 2, 186211.45 p. in. GENERAL: Your dispatch of to-day received. I send my aide for orders to-morrow. I hope you have received all my dispatches of to- day. In addition, I have to report that I sent seven companies of the Eighth Pennsylvania to Bloomfield to-day, and captured three rebel cavalry horses, carbines, pistols, and sabers complete, and recaptured Major ONeill, of General Meaghers staff, before lie had been paroled. Everything quiet in front to-night. There were no rebels left in tile vicinity of Bloomfield, and my pickets extend in that direction. We are 3 miles from Upperville at my present position, and several reports agree in placing Rift (D. II.) in command there in force. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTOX, Brigadier- General Comma Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY. ndin~. THREE MILES FROM UPPERVILLE, November 8, 186210 a. in. DEAR GENERAL: Please forward re-enforcements to this point as soon as you can. I hear the rebels intend passing through Ashbys Gap. HiJi (D. II.) is now at Upperville, and was on the held here yesterday; he sent for re-enforcements, but they arrived too late. This position it is very desirable for us to hold, and my force is not able to do it, in the face of ait attack from a stroiig force. Very truly, yours, A. PLEASONTON. General WILLcoX, 6ommanding 6orps, Ph ilomont. UPPERVILLE, [VA.], Not-ember 8, 18629 p. In. GENERAL: General Averell reports his arrival at Piedmont at 6.30 p. in., and says no enemy nor anybody else there. A cavalry force passed through an hour and a half ahead of him. The enemys abandoned canip- fires could be seen for 2 or 3 miles back. He is sending in some l)ris- oners, and reports the railroad in good order as far as he could see. I have directed General Averehl to send a scout toward Manassas Gap in the morning, and shall support him with my comlnan(l as soon as pos- sible, unless otherwise ordered by you. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- Geiei-al. General Miucv Page 115 CIrA~. XXXI.J C)PERAP1ON~ iS! tOITPOUN (OUNTY, ETC. lit) UPPER VILLE, \A. , \orcmhcr 4 18626.45 a. in. (~i~Na!AI~ : Eight prisoners have arrived from Piedznoiit. One is an officer, first lieutenant of Fifth Virgiiia ( Xivalry. The mcii l)elong to the First, Fourth, and Fifth Virginia Cavalry, which sho~vs one of Stuarts brigades went that way. Unless otherwise ordered, I shall move to that point this morning, and push a recoiinav~sance to Manas- sas Gap; at the same time try and connect with Sigels l)eol)le toward Thoroughfare Gal). As Couch covers Aslibys Gal) this morning, by my going farther down there is more chance of preventing their escape on this~side, under the mountain, where I am told there is a, but rough. Please order some Sharps carbine ammunition for my command un- mediately; say 100,000 rounds. There is none on hand at Harpers Ferry, so I am told, and we have skirmished so much my men are nearly out. Where shall I draw my next provisions ~ I only want to know iii time. Doubledays brigade of infantry, under Lieutenant-Colonel iofmann, (lid good service yesterday as skirmishers. Lieutenant Edgell, com- inanding battery New Hampshire Volunteers, with the brigade, also did some good liring. This brigade is or(lered to rel)ort to I)oubleday, this morning, by me. A. PJ~EASONTON, Brigadier- General. Brigadier-General MARCY. PIEDMONT, November 4, 18621.45 p. mu. GENERAL: have arrived at this poii~t, and shall send a force forward immediately toward Chester Gap, and have directed Averell to push one from Markham. This is a fine position, and if I had some signal people could oversee much of the country from a high point quite near. Averehl has been firing some on the cavalry retreating. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General Commanding Brigade. General MCCLELLAN. PIEiDMONT, November 4, 18623.45 l~ m. GENERAL: General Averell has sent for assistance at Markham, and reports having had a hard fight with Stuart. 1 am mo~ing forward to re-enforce him. It would be well to send forward some infantry here to-night. Walkers corps left here last Thursday, so says one of his men, and passed through this gap. Jhckson is covering the enemy as mear guard. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General MCCLELLAN. PIEDMONT, November 4, [1862j4.45 p. ma. GENERAL: I have sent Colonel Gregg and the Sixth Cavalry to re- enforce Averell, at Markham. On looking at the road from here to Mark- ham, I find it would not do to move my whole command to that point, the country being very hilly, and no places to turn round in case of re- treat. I have, therefore, directed Averell not to attempt to push farther Page 116 116 OPE~AT1ONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ~ PA. [CHAP. XXXT. and, if too hard pressed, to full back upon me. Averell mistook my orders this morning, which did not contemplate his whole force going to Markham, but only a scouting party, as it is more important to us just now to gaiu information than gain glory by thrashing Stuart. I have found a good guide, and have sent two squadrons, by Barbees, to Sandy Hook, on the Chester Gap and Flint Hill road. To Culpeper, by the road they take, it is only 11 miles from here. Averell sends me word lie had two guns aiid 300 prisoners of Stuarts at one time, and then lost them. I expect lie has had a hard fight, and as they can so easily throw in- firn try upon him through the gap, and the country is bad, I have advised him to be very careful. I begin to think Stuart is takiiig these gaps to lead us oft the scent. A. PLEASONTOX, Brigadier- General. General MCCLELLAN. P. S.It would be well to push some infantry here, that I may go on toward Sandy Hook road with my whole force. Please hurry up Sharps carbine ammunition ; Averell is calling for it. PIEDMONT, November 4, 18025.45 p. m. GENERAL: Colonel Colburns dispatch from Ashbys Gap received. I send a staff officer for orders, as directed. Averells comniand is. I fear, a good deal crippled, from his report. Tie does not give me his killed and wounded, but tells me one of his squadrons was overwhelmed by superior numbers. I have now two squadrons on the road to Chester Gal), and shall soon hear from them. From what Averell says, I am satisfied no one but Stuart has beeii in Manassas Gap. Averell talks of pursuing him, but I shall halt him until your orders are received, aiI(l strengtheii me at Chester Gap. From what I hear, general, I would advise to push the infhntry for- ward as fast as l)ossible, as the enemy have a good start. I am, general, very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, General MCCLELLAN. Brigadier. General. PIEDMONT, November 5, [1802]0.15 a. m. COLONEL: Your dispatch of last night is received. A prisoner, cap- tured at Liimden, says he beloimgs to the Tenth Virginia, of Hamptons l)rigade; that his brigade came to-day from the other side of Paris. his regiment having the advance, amid crossing the mountains, caine dowmi to Linden about dark. Timirty of his regiment were ordered (lowil to the front, the remainder going to Linden Station, a bout 14 miles from Linden. The remainder of the brigade went in the direction of the Manassas Gap. He reports infantry on the railroad between Markham and the gap. This shows Hamptons brigade took the road under the mountain from Paris. It would be well for Couch to send a division (lown that road to-day to occupy Linden, as that would prevent any flank movement through the gap, and from this place there is no road that turns off from here to Linden. A citizen from Culpeper states that he saw Longstreet at that place with his command, and that lie h)assed through Chester Gal). This was some days ago. Colonel Gregg thinks the two guns abandoned by Stuart may be near Bloomfield, a Page 117 ChAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 117 his men ran the rebels out of that so fast they left everything behind, even ~25O Co:ifederate money, which, of course, they would hardly leave behin(l except under a very high pressure. Buruside had best occupy Markham early to-day, or the rebels can get behind me in going to Chester Gap, and I wilt not be able to get o itt. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadicr- General. Cot. A. V. COLBURN. P. S.Nothing yet from Averell of his losses. CAMP NEAU SANDY HOOK, [VA.], November 5, [1862]G.20 p. lii. COLONEL: I have been informed by several sources that the officers of the cavalry which engaged me to-day made many inquiries for the shortest and best route to Warrenton. Although they made for Chester Gap, I feet sure they are going to Warrenton. From all my explora- tions in this vicinity, I believe the enemy have 1)assed the greater l)al-t of their force beyond this point some time since, and they may attempt to strike Sigel a blow near Warrenton. For me to follow up this ridge will take a good deal of time, and no infantry commands~ can fillow on the roads with their trains, the roads are so bad. I should like the generals l)ermission to strike in the directiomi of Warrenton or Culpeper, between which points I think I may find some of the enemy. My command marched 12 miles to-day, and was fighting for six hours; l)retty good days work. 1 cannot say too munch of my men and officers. Hurry up the carbine am munition. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Col. GEORGE D. IIUGGLES. CAMP NEAR SANDY HOOK, [VA.], November 5, [1862]0.3t) p. m. COLONEL: Your dispatch of 3.50 p. in. received. Averehl has been holdimmg on to the Manassas with a section of artillery and three squad- rons. The rest of his command is with me. A scout has just meturned front Chester Gap and reports nothing there. In tIme houses ahead of us are a number of wounded from todays fight, amotig them 1 captain, Thirteenth Virginia Cavalry, mortally wounde(l. Five more woun(led rebels have turned up in our lines, amid several dead rebels were found by the scouting party on the road to the gap. If the general wishes me to keep on from here toward Flint Hill and Ciilpeper, Bayard ought to go toward Warrenton. Should he and 1 both strike that way we might make a good thing. Stuart an(1 iIaml)tOml last itight slel)t in the moom fm-out which I ant now writing. I send this by an aide, as directed. Vvry respectfully, A. I~LEASONTGN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Col. A. V. COLBURN. P. 5.I sent to headquarters two dispatches, 4.15, 6.20 p. mu., contain- ing all the news Page 118 118 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA,, MD., AND PA reflAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, ON THE ROAD NEAR CHESTER GAP, Norember 6, [1862]11.15 a. in. COLONEL: The enemy have their guns l)lante(l iu this gap, and a dis- charged mau tells me that Jackson is there, with his force, to defend it. I think likely, and I am trying to get some roundabout road to my des- tination. We have found 36 dead rebels from yesterdays fight. Stuart told his men he intended to bag us, as he had his whole force. On the retreat they said we had too many infantry for them. The rebels made three different charges, and were repulsed in all. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. Col. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Amissville, November 8, 18626.30 a. m. GENERAL: Your dispatch of 10.15 p. m. is received. It would be well frr you to push a brigade of infantry to this point, to hold for the l)res- cut, with orders to assist me, if I should need it. I shall move at S a. In. toward Thorntons Gap, to cut off all the rebels I can. My positioii to-night will be at Newbys Cross-Roads. Until the bridge is rebuilt at Waterloo, the troops coming this way must cross at Gaskins Mill. Please communicate this to General Burnside, and oblige Yours, PLEASONTON - General 0. B. WILLOoX, Commanding Ninth Army Corps. P. S.Please let me know where your headquarters will be, and I will send you the news; also where general headquarters are. CULPEPER AND CHESTER GAP ROAD, November 8, 186211.30 a. m. GENERAL: I have found another gun abandoned by Stuarts cavalry. The carriage they burnt up, but the caisson is all right. This makes the third gun taken this morning. The caisson is full of 6-pounder am- munition, and the gun is a 12-pounder iron. I hear that Stuarts coin- mand is about played out. I captured an infantrynian this morning, belonging to Seventh [Fifth] Texas Regiment. He says they intend to fight at Culpeper. Very respectfully, A. PLEASO~TON, General BURNSIDE. Brigadier- General. NEWBYS CROSS-HoAns, November 8, 18624 p. m. GENERAL: Have reached this point, and find that the rebels have been making use of this road to pass to Culpeper. I drove some ~Not found Page 119 ChAP. XXII.] OPEEATION~ IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 119 cavalry off of it, and one of my squadrons of the Fifth Cavalry (AvereiN brigade), in charging them, had Lieutenant Ash badly wounded, with several of his men. I have re-enforced the party by a couple of regi- ments, under Colonel Farnsworth. Not finding a good country or camp in this vicinity, I shall return to the neighborhood of Amissville, and expect to receive further orders from General Burnside, to whom please send this dispatch. Hills and Jacksons corps are still on the other side )f the mountains. If the general desires their communication with Culpeper to be cut off, it ~vill require a force of infantry to dG it, to hold this place and Woodville. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTOX, Brigadier-General, Commanding. General 0. 13. WILLCOX, (Yo~nmanding Ninth Army Corps. P. S.Wc have captured a number of prisoners. AT CORBINS, ONE MiLE BEYOND AMISSVILLE, November 8, 18626.30 p. m. GENERAL: in the skirmish to-day in front of Little Washington the Fifth Cavalry had 1 officer and 6 men wounded, and took 6 wounded rebels prisoners. Afterward the rebels were drivemi from the town, and they retreated to Sperryville. A squadron of the Sixth Cavalry cap- tured a rebel wagon and some dozen horses from their cavalry, besides 1 officer and 1 man prisoners from Fifth Virginia Cavalry. On the road to Newbys Cross-Roads we paroled, or took prisoners, I should say, 1 cavalryman and 1 infantry, of Hoods brigade (Texas). I suppose we have taken 15 or 20 l)risoIlers. I hear the bridge across the stream between this and Culpeper has been destroyed. I marched 15. miles to-day, and accomplished all the general required. The enemy are not nOW passing down by any roads between this and Thorntons Gap to Culpeper. Two of their corps are still on the other side of the Blue Ridge. Please send this to General Burnside, and ask him for me if he has any further instructions. Yours, A. PLEASONTON. General 0. 13. WILLcoX. CORBINS CRoss-ROADs ONE MiLE BEYOND AMIS5Y1LLE, November 9, 186210 a. m. GENERAL: Your dispatch of 11 p. m.* is received, and its instructions attended to. My dispositions are as follows: One squadron at Barbees Cross- Roads; one squadron at Gaines Cross-Roads, which is at the crossing of the Amissville and Little Washington pike with the Chester Gap and Culpeper pike; one squadron at Newbys Cross-Roads; one squadron on the road leading from this place to Culpeper, which, with the three regiments of infantry at Jefferson, will cover this front. Last night one of my squadrons (Eighth New York) pushed as far as Flint Hill, paroled a number of wounded rCl)e15, and recaptured two of Not found Page 120 120 OPERATiONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. my men, taken, wounded, at Barbees the oilier day. Saw no enemy in that vicinity. General Hampton sent for my men, and questioned them very closely, but obtained nothing from them. One of them, a very in- telligent man, says General Hampton and his officers appeared very much puzzled to know where our forces were, and asked him where Generals McClellan and Bnrnside were. Some of the officers thought they were back, but General Hampton thought they must be in the val- ley. He heard General Hampton give an order to stop some infantry that was going through Chester Gap, on the mountains. Yesterday a man from one of the Texas regiments at Culpeper came in and gave himself np. He had shot a man, and the rebels were about to hang him. He left Culpeper three days ago. The rebels passed througli Chester Gap to Culpeper, and Jackson was to cross the mount. ains 25 miles below that point. Thinks D. H. Hill, as well as Long- street, is at Culpeper. There were large quantities of corn at Culpeper; saw about 500 barrels iu one pile. General Lee was at Culpeper three days ago. There was a camp rumor at Culpeper that Lee was toling us down the valley, and that Jackson was to l)ush through the mount- ains below, and take in flank, and use us up. A squadron of the Sixth Cavalry pushed toward Culpeper from here last night, 3 miles inside of the enemys lines, and captured a captain of the Fourth Virginia Regi- ment of Cavalry and a picket of 5 soldiers; also a four-horse wagon and team, out for forage. This was 10 miles from Culpeper. The rebels acknowledge themselves badly whipped at Barbees, and would not believe it when we told them we had 110 infantry. The Fifth Cavalry (Averells brigade) lost, in wounded, yesterday 3 non-commissioned officers and 5 privates, and First Lieut. J. P. Ash, seriously wounded. Lieutenant Ash showed great daring, but the results of his charge did not compensate for his loss. I forgot to mention my command captured a number of beef cattle from the enemy yesterday, and had fresh beef last night as far as it went. I send this by Lieutenant Tucker, the officer going to Gaines- ville for suI)plies. Present my kind thanks to the major-general com- manding for his congratulations to my command. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Major-General PARKE, Chief of Staff. CORBINs CROSS-ROADS, November 9, 186211.30 a. m. GENERAL: As some indication of the forces at Culpeper, I will men- tion I have prisoners from the following rebel regiments, viz: Fourth Virginia Cavalry, Eighth Virginia Cavalry [Infantry], First Georgia Cavalry [Phillips Legiomi], Twenty-eighth Virginia Infantry, Eighteenth Virginia Infantry, Eighth Louisiana Infantry, Fifth Texas Infantry. General George E. Pickett has three brigades 2 miles this side of Cul- peper; Hewitts [Ewells] division is also there, and Cobbs Legion. I have parties out, of which it will not do to mention, getting informa- tion. I have also three squadrons out, in detachments, on the same serv- ice. I wish the general could send me two or three suits of ordinary citizens clothing, about army size No. 4. I can use them to great ad- vantage. Also some secret service money at times can be useful. This should be gold, as our money is not acceptable, but suspicious Page 121 CHAr. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 121 My impressions at this time are that Hill (A. P.) is at Front Royal, and Jackson behind Thorntons Gap; that Hill, if he gets a chance, will break through Cliestcr Gap, pass Barbees, and push toward Salem arid toward Gainesville; while Jackson will pass down to Culpeper, by Woodville, when we move on that place. At this time I think an infantry force of several brigades should hold Barbees Cross-Roads. It is a most important point, covering Salem, Markham, Piedmont, Warrenton, and Orleans. Cavalry cannot hold it against infantry. Then, if the general will permit me to suggest, a bold movement of two or three corps thrown rapidly on the road between Thorntons Gap and Culpeper, by the way of Jefferson, Thoinpsonville, and Newbys Cross-Roads, would cut Jackson off, and attack Culpeper with great advantage, in connection with any other operations contein- l)lated. The enemy are, I think, somewhat disconcerted just 110W7 and rapid movements may prove of more value than hard fighting hereafter. An express has just come in from my squadrons on the road to Cul- l)eper, reporting Stuart with some guns and a considerable force of cavalry at that position. He had attacked them, and was driving them back. This was 6 miles from here and 9 from Culpeper. I have sent out i-c- enforcements to my squadrons. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTOK, Major- General PARKE. Brigadier- General. CORBINS CROSS- ROADS, November 9, 18622.30 v. in. GENERAL: An intelligent negro has just come in from Jacksons army. He left it yesterday. He says Jackson is posted at Chester Gap, with his troops on this and the other side of the mountain, and cannon posted all through the gap. General Ewell is within [the gap]. The balamice of the army is at Culpeper, covering the shipping off of the l)roduce from this upper country. There is two weeks supply at Culpeper yet to be hauled off, and a large quantity in the valleys beyond yet to be hauled to Culpeper, and the rebels are terribly frightened lest we push through and get their stuff and cut them off. He says that these supplies are being sent to Charlottesville, Petersburg, and Lynchburg, and that the rebels, if cut off intend to make their last stand in the mountains about Lynchburg. He says our army is from two to three weeks ahead of the time the m-ebels expected us. He says Jackson is very much alarmed at our rapid advance, and expects Lee to come back if we attack him. Jackson has about 40,000 men with him. He further says, to cut off their supplies, we must push a force to Woodville. Jacksou thinks we will attack him in Chester Gal); that if we do not, lie will come in our rear from there after we pass. This neglo kmiows all this country; has been with Jackson from the start, as servant to Surgeon Campbell. I shall keep him as a guide. He tells the same tale about the soldiers being tired, unclad, and strictly guarded. He says many would gladly be paroled if they could get the chance. This pro- gramme agrees with the suggestions I submitted this morning. My ad- vance yesterday created great alarm with the rebels, and they thought their communication was going to be cut off immediately. L~st night they pushed down l~00 wagons to Culpeper. Page 122 122 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. I send this by a fast express. Please acknowledge its receipt, and send inc some note paper and envelopes, for I am nearly out, and then iiiy dispatches will stol), for want of a supply. This is the most important information we have yet received, and 1 trust it is in time for the general to turn it to good account. Very respecttully, A. PLEASONTOIY, Major-General PARKE. Brigadier- General. CORBINS CROSS-ROADS, November 9, 18621.45 p. in. GENERAL: A young man who left Culpeper day before yesterday, at 12 in., has just come in. He is running away to avoi(I the conscription. He says there is a large force at Culpeper; he thinks about 40,000 or 50,000 men, the most of theni encamped the other side of the town. Heard Longstreet was there. Saw three battalions of artillery; thinks there were some fifty pieces; but this was not all they had. Saw good number of wagons. Soldiers miserably clad, and nothing but beef and flour, without salt. Soldiers want to stop fighting, and said there would be no battle this fall unless we brought it on. Army without tents. 1 shall send him to headquarters. Another citizen has beeii brought in froiu Hazel River, 9 miles front Culpeper. Says a negro told him he heard Stuarts cavalry had orders to leave from there this morning. Forage is becoming rather scarce in these parts. Very respectfully, general, yours, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Gommanding Division. Major-General PARKE. P. S.G-eneral Averell is sick and gone to Warrenton. , , by the advice of his doctor, has HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY 1)IV1SLON, Corbins Cross-Roads, November 10, 18629.30 a. in. GENERAL: I find there are four roads betwecn this and Woodville that pass dowii to Culpepet- from Chester Gap, each of which should be strongly guarded, to J)revent the rebel trains passing dow-n. Tke rebels are now uslito- Tlmorutous Gal) for their trains, Chester Gap being guarded by Jackson. Jackson has no ti-ains with him, but is supplied by the fin-mci-s iii l~age County. Ills traimins are hauling- supplies to Culpeper. Jacksons plan, whemi we move to Cnhpeper, is to strike for Warrenton Jn nctio it and Rappab an iiock Station. It we attack him in the gap, lie will retreat up the valley towal-(l Staunton. This is what he wants, to draw us off from Culpepem-. I-his am-my, it is smd, is composed of the picked fighting men of the whole. TIme army at Ciulpeper, I am told, is a. goo(l (heal (lemnorahize(1, an(l will not stan(l much of a shock. The imegro that caine in font Jackson yester(hay tells inc that it we can get our army to Madison we shall cut oil trout the road to Ja(ksOIi Ilichmnond, from its eonneetion with Culpeper, alm(l would break up the Culpeper army Page 123 CHAP. X~I.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 123 I learn that Joe Johnston, and Shaiik~ [N. G.] E~-ans, and George E. Pickett are at Culpeper. Stuart is in front of me, at Hazel River, on the other side. There has been some Picket firing, but I shall not disturb him until the general is ready to let slip the dogs ef war. Jagkson has no cavalry except some few for scouts. Leave a strong force to face Jackson, covering Warrenton and its junction with a corps of observation at Barbees; push your forces down on Culpeper vigorA ously, inclining to the right, to take in Woodville and Madison. Give us ten days more good weather, and wind up the campaign in a blaze ot glory. Stuart told a lady that our rapid advance was due to desperation; that we were forced to it, an(1 that ou reaching the iRappahannock we would get the souii(lest thrashing we have ever had. Nous verrons. Please let me know if you received my dispatch of 2.30 p. mu. yesterday. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. Major-General PARKE. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Corbins Cross-Roads, November 10, 18621.15 1. 1~~. GENERAL: The enemy advanced on me this morning, with infantry, artillery, and cavalry. They drove my pickets some 3 miles. I think it would l)e well to forward a division to Amissville, to support us. Gen- eral Sturgis has most kindly given me every assistance, and has now three regiments engaged. It is reported that Longstreet has sent out a division or so to attack us. Please keep our communication open with you, and notify General Buruside. It is reported the enemy is evacuating Culpeper, and that this attack is intended to deceive us. A division sent from Jefferson toward Hazel River would have a good effect. Very truly, yours, A. PLEASONTOIN, Brigadier- General. General 0. B. WILLCOx. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Amis.wille, November 10, 1862. GENERAL: The 6.pounder gun and caisson captured two days since is now at Amissville, and I have no means of bringing it in. Cannot you send out a wagon for the gnu and a team for the caisson ~ Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier. General, Commanding Cavalry Division. Major-C eneral PARKE. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVlSIoN, Corbins Cross-Roads, November 10, 18625.20 p. mu. GENERAL: After my dispatch of 2.20 p. in. the enemy made his ap- licaramice Oii the road toNewbys Cross.Roads, drove in my 1)icket at: that l)lace, amid advanced with his artillery on this position. I have just repulsed him, and remain in my old position of last night. rrhe forage here is used up, and I must move to-morrow after it. A few moment Page 124 124 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI since I was informed the enemy had driven my pickets 1 mile from Gaines Cross-Roads. I have sent a regiment to support them, an(I re- gain the cross-roads. It is evident the move to-day was to place themselves between us an(l the roads leading from the gaps, through which their produce trains are passing. Two regiments of infantry (rebel) were seeii to-day acting~with Stuart. They probably had more. I shall feel these roads to-morrow, leading toward Woodvihle, and wish to know the generals instructions in reference to them. Very respectfully, A. PLEASOKTON, Brigadier- General Coin Major-General PARKE. mandinti. P. S.Captured 2 prisonersi infantry and 1 cavalryman. CORBINS CROSS-ROADS, November 11, 18625.30 p. m. GENERAL: A dispatch just received from Barbees Cross-Roads in. forms me that 600 rebel cavalry entered Sandy Hook yesterday; that the Seventh Virginia Regiment is within 2 miles of Markham, and that Jackson is expected to n~arch down the Grade road to-day. The Grade road is the road to Culpeper, and the demonstration of yesterday was evidently intended to cover some such movement, as well as to recoim- noiter. Colonel Davis, of Eighth New York, at Newbys Cross-Roads, reports he has scouted all the roads leading froni that point to-day, an(l found no enemy, except at Hazel River, where he captured a sergeant, of Longstreets body-guard, and 2 horses. Pick& s on the Culpeper road report the rebels, with two regiments of cavalry and two pieces of artillery, on the opposite bank of Hazel River. They have been recoli- iioitering toward Jefferson to-day. My loss yester(lay was 2 men mor- tally wounded and 2 severely. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier. General, Commanding. Major-General PARKE. CORBINS CROSS-ROADS, November 11, 18629.30 p. ni. GENERAL: I send you inclosed a Lynchburg paper of yesterday, which shows the rebels are using the railroad in that direction. It re- marks on the large number of desertions of the rebel army. A deserter from the Eighth Virginia Infantry caine in this morning; left Culpeper Saturday. Says Lee has gone to Richmond. That he was iml)ressed into service from Tennessee with 40 others all anxious to quit the rebel service when they can get away. Captain Hutton has communicated the generals views, and I twilL do everything to carry them out. Please order me 100,000 rounds of Sharr s carbine cartridges, with caps, and have them sent to me as soon as possible. My cavalry, in this country, act a great deal on foot, and must,~ave the ammunition. Very respectfully, A. PLEASONTOIN, Brigadier- General. Major-General PARKE Page 125 CI~Ar. XXXI] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN~COUNTY,~ ETC. i~5 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, (lamp near Warrenton, Va., November 17, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the oper- ations of this command from the crossing of the Potomac at Berlin to the arrival of the Army of the Potomac in the vicinity of Warrenton, Va., an(l the relinquishment of the command of the army by Major- General i~IcClel1an: On the morning of October 26, I crossed the Potomac at Berliii, with the Secon(l Cavalry Brigade an(l Peiiningtons horse battery, and took up a position in front of Purcellville, on the 27th, having ocenpied Hills- boron oh with two squadrons of the Sixth Cavalry. After some skir- mnishing with the rebels, and having driven them out of Purceliville, they were followed up by Colonel Davis, with the Eighth New York Cavalry, as far as Snickers Gap, at which point they opened with shell and showed themselves in strong force. From this time until November 1 the brigade was occupied in scout- ing the country to Leesburg, Aldie, Middleburg, Philomont, and in gaining information of the enemys movements. On November 1, the command moved forward and occupied Philo mont, several hundred of Stuarts cavalry leaving about the time we entered. Colonel Gregg, with the Eighth Pennsylvania and Third In- diana Cavalry, pursued this cavalry amid drove it very handsomely from some woods it attempted to hold, but, the enemy bringing up his artil- lery, no farther advance was made, except to silence the rebel gnus by the fire of Penningtous battery. The rebels left 5 dead on the field. Onr loss was 1 killed amid 1 officer an(h 13 men wounded. On November 2, my advance came up with the enemy at Union. They had some infantry su~)l)orting their guns, and very soon some sharp fighting began, which resulted in the blowing up of one of their caissons, by which a number of their men were killed ,and their retreat for sev- eral miles on the road to Upperville. [Sic.] Lieutenant-Colonel Hofmann, with a small brigade of infantry an(l a battery, reported to me for duty this morning from 1)oubledays division. The fighting did not cease until after dark, the rebels giving way at every h)oint. Their loss must have been considerable. One of their officers was left (lead on the field, amid 10 wounded fell into our hands, besi(les a miumber of prisoners. My loss in my own brigade was 1 man killed and 26 wounded. The infantry brigade lost 5 men killed and 31) wounded. Several companies of the Eighth Pemmusylvania Cavalry proceeded to Bloomfield to-day and captured a number of rebel horses, arms, equip- ments, & c., and released Major ONeill, of General Meaghers staff, be- fore the rebels had paroled him; in fact, they ran away so quickly as to leave several hundred dollars of their paper money behind. On November 3, Brigadier-Geumeral Averell, having reported for duty with the First Cavalry Brigade and Tidbahls battery, was given the a(hvance, and the infantry brigade and Second Cavalry Brigade moved to the heft. The infantry brigade and Second Cavalry Brigade soon caine up with the enemy, amid drove them on the road to Upperville. Averell soon joined, and the whole coummand moved forward and took ~iossession of Upperville, driving the enemy through the town tow-ard Ashbys Gap, as well as toward Piedmont. Geuuerah Averell, with his brigade, muoved after the colimmun toward Piedmont, and the Sceon Page 126 126 OPE1~AT1ON~ IN N. VA., \V. VA., MI)., ANI) PA. V~nAE. xxxt. Brigade followed to AshbyXs Gap. The inf~utiy brigade w~,s recalled t4) 11)yM its proper divi~ioii this eveinhig. On reaching Asi C-up the enemy opened a 10-pounder Parrott from the mountain side, ~iid sho WC(l 8011W force, xv hich alterwar(l retreated through the gap. Averell occupied Piedmont and took some 1)risoners. On the 4th, Averell lllove(l toward Markham, ahI(l 80011 engage(l a force there. The skirmishing was kept up during the day, and in the afternoon, at his request, he was re-enforced by the Eighth I~ennsyl- x-ania and Sixth Cavalry, under Colonel Gregg. The enemy fell back from Markham through Manassas Gap, and also toward Barbees Cross- Roads. As no detailed report has been received from General Averell, I cannot state his losses during the time his brigade was with me. On November 5, I moved, with the Second Brigade and Penning- tons battery, through Markham, toward Barbees Cross-Roads, Averells brigade remaining at Markham, to cover Manassas Gap, by the orders of the major-general commanding. On approaching Barbees Cross- Roads, the enemy opened with a-couple of guns from an eminence com- manding the road, and displayed a large force of cavalry on the left of the road, toward Chester Gap. J replied with a s~ctiou of Penningtons battery, and immediately sent the Eighth Pennsylvania arid Sixtlr Cav- alry, under Colonel Gregg, to our left, to occupy some woods to the front amid turn their flank, a section, under Pennington, taking a positiomi to the front and right of the road, supported by the Eighth New York Cavalry, under Colonel Davis, while the Eighth Illinois amid Third In- (liana Cavalry, under Colonel Farnsworth, moved up the road to the front. Gregg, with great skill and activity, soon outflanked the rebel lines and caused them to withdraw their guns. They attempted to charge him, but did not succeed. Farnsworth moved rapidly up the road, receiving several rounds of canister, but driving the enemy before him, until he came to a barricade, beyond which the enemy covered their retreat. By this time I had advanced two sections of artillery to tile position held by the rebels, where they first opened and I soon dis- covered that Colonel Davis of the Eighth New York Cavalry, had a much superior force to his own to contend with, and that they were about to charge him, iu a column of squadrons. I ordered the Third Iiidiana to re-enforce Davis, and opened a fire on the enemys squad- rons. Before, how ever, much was effected, Davis saw his situation and (hismounted one of his squadrons behind a stone wall, while lie gallantly led the remainder of his regiment against the enemy, to meet their charge. The result was very successful. The carbines of the (lismounted squadron gave a galling flank and front fire while tile attack of the Eighth New York routed the enemy and sent them flying iii all direc- tions. Thirty-seven of the rebel dead were left on this field, and more than that number of arms, horses, and prisoners were captured. This l)art of their command retreated toward Chester Gap, and that from Barbees Cross-Roads took the Warrenton road. On this occasion the Second Brigade had contended with two rebel brigades (Hamptons and Lees), the whole commanded by Stuart, and had driven them in confusion from all their positions with a severe loss. My own loss was 5 killed and 8 wounded. On November 6, finding that the enemy was in force in Chester Gap and beyond (Jacksons corps holding that position), and Averell having joined me, I moved in the direction of Orleans, intending to proceed to Springvihie and Little Washington by that route. I halted for the miiglmt miear Waterloo, where my advance was fired upon I)y the enemy Page 127 (HAP. NXXT.1 OPERAPIONS IN LOIT1)OUN COUNTY, ETC. 127 (hi November ~, moved, ~ut lithe Virsi and Secoin.l Brigades, to Amiss- yule, dIl(l was opened nit l)y t lie rebels with artillery, on the Little Wash- ingtoii roa(l, and also ou the Jefferson road. Drove the rebels out of Jefferson, aLl(l capture(l two guns; also 3 officers aiid 10 men. On November S, moved to Newbys Cross-Roads. A squa(lroli of the Fifth Cavalry had a skirmish on the Little Washington road, and Lieu- tenant Ash, of that regiment, was badly wounded. Colonel Farnsworth then drove the rebels beyond Little Washington with the Eighth Illinois and Third Indiana Cavalry. The Fifth Cavalry, besides Lieutenaiit Ash, had 6 men wonnded and took 6 rebel prisoners. The Sixth Cavalry cap- tured a rebel wagon and 12 horses from the rebel cavalry, besides takiiig 1 officer and 1 man prisoner. On November 9, the division occupied a position at Corbins Cross- Roads, 1 mile from Amissville, covering all the approaches from Cul- l)eper, and also those from Chester Gap and Luray. A squadron of the Eighth New York Cavalry last night pushed as far as Flint Hill, paroled a number of wounded rebels, and retook 2 of my men captured, wounded, at Barbees. A squadron of the Sixth Cavalry went inside of the en- etnys lines last night, toward Culpeper, and captured a captain of the Fourth Virginia Cavalry and 5 men on picket; also a four-horse wagon, out for forage. On November 10, the enemy from Culpeper attacked me in force with a brigade of infantry, one of cavalry and artillery, and at Corbins Cross- iloads drove in my pickets, and compelled me to concentrate my whole force to resist him. Several prisoners taken say it was Longstreet, mak - ing a reconnaissance to find out where our army lay. He did not suc- ceed, as he was repulsed late in the afternoon with severe loss. Our loss was 2 men mortally and 2 severely wounded. General Sturgis, who was stationed at Ainissville, quickly sent several of the regiments of his division to the right of the enemy to outflank them. This movement, (loubtless, had great effect in inducing the enemy to withdraw. This action closed the campaign of the cavalry in Loudoun and Fanquier Counties, as orders were then received directing no farther advance to- ward Culpeper, and informing the army that Major-General Burnside lIa(l relieved Major-General McClellan from the command of it. At this time, and from the 7th instant, my advance pickets were omi Hazel River, within 6 miles of Culpeper, besides having my flank pickets toward Chester and Thorntons Gaps extended to Gaines Cross-Roads and Newbys Cross-Roads, with numerous patrols in the direction of Woodville, Little Washington, and Springville. The information gained by these parties, and also from deserters, prisoners, contrabands, as well as citizens, established the fact of Longstreet, with his command, being at Culpeper, while Jackson and D. H. Hill, with their respective com- mands, were in the Sheiiandoah Valley, on the western side of the Blue Ridge, covering Chester and Thorntons Gaps, and expecting us to attempt to pass through and attack them. As late as November 17, a contraband, just from Strasburg, came iIlt() my camp and reported that D. II. lulls corps was 2 miles beyond that l)lace, on the railroad to Mount Jackson. Hill was tearing up the road and destroying the bridges, under the impression that we intended to follow into that valley, and was en route for Staunton. Jacksons corps was between Strasburg and Winchester, Ewell and A. P. Hill were with Jackson. Provisions were scarce, and the rebels were obliged to keep moving to obtain them. hi closing this report, it is but justice to the troops I have had th Page 128 t~8 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Mt~., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. honor to command that I should mention the results of their laborious exertions and chivalrous gallantry, constantly exhibited under many ad- verse circumstances. From the time the army left Washington to the end of the campaign at Warrenton, the cavalry of my command had taken from the enemy 6 pieces of artillery, 4 stand of colors, and 1,000 l)risoners of war, without losing a single gun or color. These facts show that the officers and men of our cavalry have the energy, the intelligence, the courage, and enterprise to make them superior to any cavalry they have to contend with, and yet no one is more painfully conscious than myself that the opinion is entertained that our cavalry has been deficient in its duty in the present rebellion. I will, therefore, meutioim a few facts to show that, wherever there exists a foundation for such an opinion, the fault does not rest with the cavalry. The rebels have always had more cavalry in the field than we, and whenever we have fought them their numbers were two to three to one of ours. Such a difference is al- ways an encouragement to brave soldiers, for they never stop to inquire their number; but such a difference tells fearfully upon the hard service the horses have to perform. Good horses are broken down by it; inferior ones are literally thrown away in such service. The rebel cavalry are mounted on the best horses in the South, while our cavalry are fur- nished a very inferior animal, bought by contract, and which is totally unfit for efficient service. The best horses in my command are the horses my men have captured from the rebel cavalry, in their different engagements with them. As an instance, one of my companies has 22 rebel horses out of 53, and these horses are the best in the company. Out of 18 horses furnished this same company by the quartermasters de- l)artment at Knoxville, only 2 are left in the company, and these are very inferior. Does not this show that the officers and men who thus wrest the elements of success from the hands of the enemy are superior to the circumstances surrounding them, and are not responsible for those fiuilures which are used as illustrations against them ~ I respectfully submit to the favorable consideration of the major-gen- eral commanding and the Government the following-named officers for distinguished gallantry and good conduct throughout the campaign: Col. J. F. Farnsworth, Eighth Illinois Cavalry; Col. D. MeM. Gregg, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry; Col. B. F. Davis, Eighth New York Cavalry; Major Chapman, Third Indiana Cavalry, and Capt. W. P. Sanders, Sixth U. S. Cavalry. These officers each commanded regiments. Of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, Majors Beveridge and Medill, and Captains hfynes and Forsyth; of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Maj. Peter Keenan; of the Eighth New York Cavalry, Major Markell, Captains 1~ol)e, Barry, and Moore; of the Third Indiana Cavalry, Captaiii Lemn- men; of the Sixth U. S. Cavalry, First Lient. James F. Wade and First Lieutenant Spanglei, Second Lieuts. Albert Coats and Joseph Kerin; of Peuningtons battery, First Lients. A. C. M. Pennington, jr., Robert 11. Chapin, and Frank B. Hamilton. Of Brigadier-General Averells brigade, no reports have been received, as it was soon after detached on o~iher service. As a brigade, its serv- ices were always efficient and well rendered. One exception came under my notice at Amissvihle, viz, the gallantry and efficiency of Cap- tam Harrison, commanding Fifth Cavalry, against a superior force of time enemy. Of Tidballs battery, Captain Tidball, Second Artillery; Lients. Will- iam N. Dennison and Robert Clarke. My staff officers throughout the campaigmi serve(l with zeal, energy Page 129 CIJAL. XXXI.J OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 129 and fidelity, viz, Capt. A. J. Cohen, assistant adjutant-general; First Lieat. Isaac W. Ward, Sixth Cavalry; First Lient. C. Thompson, First New York Cavalry, aide-de-camp, and First Lieutenant Van Patten, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, division commissary of subsistence. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division Brig. Gen. It. B. MARCY, Chief of StatJ Army of the Potomac. No. 3. Report of Col. Dacid MoM. Gregg, Eighth Pennsylvania ~Javalry, of operations October 26November 22. HDQRs. CAVALRY DIVISION, LEFT GRAND DIVISION, January 2, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and of other troops under my command, from the 26th of October, when the Second Bri- gade of Cavalry crossed the Potomac into Virginia, until the 22d of No- vember, when it arrived at Falmouth: At Parcellville, Va., the Eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Cavalry was employed with the other regiments in picketing, and from here several reconnaissances were made by squadrons of the regiment toward Aldie and Middleburg, which were successful. Upon the arrival of the bri- gade at Philomont, one squadron was, by the direction of the brigadier- general commanding, sent to reconnoiter the road leading to Union. This squadron having met the enemys cavalry in considerable force, engaged them, but were compelled to retire. By direction of Brigadier- General Pleasonton, I at once proceeded, with the Third Regiment of Indiana Cavalry and the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, to the support of the squadron engaged; with dismounted skirmishers from both regi- ments, the enemy were handsomely driven from a wood which they occupied. This wood~ in our possession, was subjected to such a fire of grape and canister from the enemy that I withdrew my skirmishers, and sent to Brigadier-General Pleasonton for a piece of artillery, which quickly arrived, and, from a disadvantageous position, opened a well- directed fire of grape upon the enemy. The contest was then continued, the enemy directing the fire of four pieces of artillery upon my com- mand. The enemys mounted and dismounted men having retired be- hind his artillery, I returned with my command to camp at Philomont. Whilst I was engaged with the enemy, the firing from Penningtons bat- tery, at Philomont, did good execution, drawing, in some degree, the fire of the enemy from my command, and later entirely compelling the with- drawal of their artillery. In this affair our loss was 2 men killed and 1 commissioned officer and 12 men wounded. The enemys loss was greater, including 5 commissioned officers wounded. On the 3d, the brigade being engaged with the enemy at Union, two squadrons of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Griffiths, er~tered the town of Bloom field, drove out a strong picket of the enemy, captured 3 prisoners, and recaptured Major ONeill, a United States officer on Gen- cr~J Meaghers staff, that morning captured by the enemy. The remain- 9 U U--VOL XIX. PT I Page 130 130 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA, MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. ing squadrons were employed supporting sections of artillery, & c. At the close of this day, having been ordered forward by General Pleas- onton, the regiment charged the enemy under a raking fire of grape from a battery in position near Carters house. At the engagement at Upperville, the regiment, although present, was not actually engaged, it on that day being in rear. After the 3d my command consisted of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry and the Sixth U. S. Regiment of Regular Cavalry, Capt. W. P. Sanders commanding the latter. On the 4th, at Markham, I was detached with my command and ordered forward by the general commanding to support Brigadier- General Averell in his engagement with the enemy at Markham. Upon my arrival there the enemy had fled, leaving General Averells brigade in possession of the town. (in the following morning I rejoined the brigade with my regiments, and on the column of march brought up the rear. Upon this day the advance of the brigade attacked two brigades of rebel cavalry, commanded by General J. E. B. Stuart. Stuarts forces were in position at Barbees Cross-Roads. The attack having been made, I received orders from Brigadier-General Pleasonton to move up my command, and drive the enemy on the left. The regiments, moving up at a gallop, were advanced to the front and to the extreme left of the line. The appearance of the regiments on the left at once drew the fire of all the enemys artillery upon them, and more particularly that of a section posted upon a commanding hill surrounded by a dense wood. This wood w~s held by the enemys dismounted cavalry in strong force. My dispositions were quickly made, and three squadronstwo of the Eighth Pennsylvania and one of the Sixth Regularsof men dismounted and deployed as skirmishers and gallantly advanced, ascending a slope of clear ground to attack the enemy iu the wood, and, if possible, cap- ture the section. This section, at a distance of 800 yards, poured load after load upon the line, but without checking it. The enemys skir- mishers were forced to retire, and the left of my line was advanced rap- idly to secure the wood in rear of the section. The right of the line, close upon the section, compelled it to retire too soon, the left of the line not having quite reached the wood. Cut off from their horses by the dense wood, these squadrons still pressed on, and only desisted in the pursuit when completely exhausted. Having reached a point in front of the enemys batteries, and much advanced beyond the center and left of our line, we saw to our right, and somewhat to the rear, a column of two regiments charging the left of the line. This charge was handsomely re- pulsed by the Eighth New York Cavalry. An attempt was made by a regiment to charge my line of skirmishers, but a well-directed fire from our carbines made it prudent for the enemy to change. his I)lans. After this my command joined the remainder of the brigade in the l)ursuit of the enemy, driven in confusion from all his positions and fairly beaten. In this afihir I had 1 man, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, killed, and 2 or 3 wounded. My command took prisoners a commissioned officer, wounded, of the Ninth Virginia [Cavalry], and 6 privates, 1 wounded. At Amiss- ville the regiments were frequently engaged with Stuarts cavalry. A reconnaissance in force made by the enemy at Amissville was first met by the Eighth New York and Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry and a sec- tion of Penningtons battery; these under my command. These regi- ments of cavalry, deployed as skirmishers, handsomely resisted the ad- vance of infantry and cavalry, and, when joined by. the other regiments of the brigade, still ocenpied the front line, and successfully held their position against the superior force of the enemy. After leaving Amiss- ville, the Eighth Pennsylvania and Sixth Regular Cavalry were em Page 131 9 Cnir. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 131 ployed with the other regiments of the brigade in covering the march of the army upon Falmoath. In closing this report of the operations of my command, I would do justice to the officers and enlisted men of it by mentioning that whenever engaged they displayed the greatest gallantry and highest soldierly qualities. The daily successes of the brigade, in its engagements with Stuarts cavalry, inspired such feelings of enthusiastic soldierly confidence that the enemy had only to be pointed out to be defeated. Maj. P. Keenan, Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Captain Sanders, commanding Sixth U. S. Cavalry, and Lieut. Frank A. Baker, acting regimental adjutant Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, rendered especial good service. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. MCM. GREGG, Colonel Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Capt. A. J. COHEN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Cavalry Brigade. No. 4. Report of Lieut. Col. J. William Biofmann, Fsfty-8ixth Pennsylvania Infantry, of skirmishes at Union and Upperville. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST DIV., FIRST ARMY CORPS, Camp at Upperville, Va., November 4, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the operations of the brigade under my command in the actions on the 2d and 3d instant. In compliance with instructions from General Doubleday, I reported with my command, consisting of the Fifty-sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, Major Smith commanding; Ninety-fifth Regiment New York Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Post commanding; Seventy-sixth Regi- ment New York Volunteers, Major Livingston commanding; Seventh Indiana Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Cheek commanding, and the First New Hampshire Battery, Lieutenant Edgell commanding, to Gen- eral Pleasonton on the morning of the 2d instant. I found General Pleasonton engaged with the enemy in front of the town of Philomont. The enemy was throwing shell with considerable rapidity. We, how- ever sustained no loss. General Pleasonton directed that two regiments of my brigade should skirmish through the wood, on the left of the road leading to the town of Union. The Fifty-sixth and Ninety-fifth Regi- ments were detailed for this duty. . They were soon recalled, and I was directed by General Pleasonton to take the brigade to the front, advance through the town, and then hold it. The enemy had his cavalry posted in the town at the time, and had his artillery in front of it. After ford- ing the creek and ascending the hill in our front, the brigade was formed in line of battle, and, with skirmishers thrown out, we advanced upon the town. We had proceeded about 200 yards, when General Pleason- ton sent for a regiment to support a battery on our left and rear. The Seventy-sixth Regiment was detailed for this purpose. The line, now consisting of 700 men, pressed on through the town, the enemy retiring, on our approach, to a hill 1 mile beyond the town. After passing through the towii, I sent the Ninety-fifth Regiment and two companies of the Fifty-sixth to take possession of a strip of wood on the left of the road, and about 300 yards to our front. Two companies of the Sevent Page 132 132 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL Indiana iRegiment were then sent to picket the roads leading into the town. I then sent a request to General Pleasonton to send forward a battery of artillery. General Pleasonton soon arrived in p~rson, and brought the artillery with him. He directed me to again move the bri- gade to the front, leaving the Seventy-sixth Regiment to picket the roads. As we advanced on the enemy they again opened on us with shell, one of which struck the line of the Seventh Indiana, killing the color.sergeant and 1 color-corporal, and wounding a number of others. We then took possession of a wood beyond the church, on the left of the road, and awaited the arrival of the artillery. The enemy in the mean time continued throwing shell, causing a number of casualties. After our artillery had thrown a few shots at the enemy they again retired to a position three-fourths of a mile farther on, toward the turn- pike leading to Upperville. We crossed the ravine in our front, and again advanced in line of battle upon the enemy, who soon reopened on us with shell. As we were crossing an open field, a shell struck the line of the Fifty-sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, killing 2 men of Company 0-, and mortally wounding 2 others. I would be doing injustice to this regiment to omit mentioning the prompt manner in which the gap, formed by the loss of the 4 men, was closed; not a single man left the line until permission to do so had been given. The brigade was placed in the rear of a stone wall, and our artillery soon replied to the enemy. The Ninety-fifth Regiment was ordered to go to the left and front, to support a section of artillery. They were soon re-enforced by the Fifty-sixth Regiment. The enemy were now soon driven from their position, and, it being quite dark, the firing ceased on both sides. The Ninety-fifth and Fifty-sixth Regiments were directed by General Pleasonton to take possession of a hill, covered with wood, on the extreme left and front. They held possession of it during the night. The Seventy-sixth Regiment remained on duty in the town and on the roads leading into it. Thus ended the operations on the 2d in- stant. On the morning of the 3d instant I reported to General Pleasonton, who informed me that he had sent word to General l)oubleday that the brigade should rejoin the division, but that circumstances now made it desirable that we should remain with him. lIe directed me to bring up the Seventh Indiana Regiment and the battery, arid to hold the hill on which the Ninety-fifth and Fifty-sixth Regiments had bivouacked. While executing this order General Pleasouton directed the Fifty-sixth Regiment to skirmish through a wood, to the front and right of the hill. Having done this, the Fifty-sixth Regiment remained, as directed, in the wood until evening. When the Seventh Indiana Regiment and the bat- tery had arrived in front, a section of the battery, with the Seventh Regi- ment as a support, was advanced 1,000 yards to the front, and l)osted on the crest of a hill. The battery soon opened on the enemy, who was posted in the rear of a large house and barn, on our left and front. The Ninety-fifth Regiment was ordered to take possession of the house, which order they executed in gallant style the instant that the fire of our bat- tery ceased. They held possession of the house during the day. The enemy having retired beyond the range of the guns nientioned, the troops under my command were allowed to rest, excepting, however, those serv- ing with the four guns, under command of Lieutenant Edgell. They continued with the cavalry during the day. At 4 p. m. I received an order from General Pleasonton to call in the regiments and bring the brigade to Upperville. I did so, and reporte Page 133 CHAP. XX~1] OPERATIONS IN LO~JDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 133 to him at that place at 8 p. in. After being deputed by General Pleas- onton to convey his thanks to the officers and men of my command for the good services they had rendered, he directed inc to report to 0-en- eral Doubleday. In reporting the operations of the brigade, I beg to add my own thanks to the officers and men under my command for the prompt manner in which they discharged the duties devolving upon them. To Captain Ford, assistant quartermaster, and Captain Williams, of the Fifty-sixth Regiment, my acting aide-de-camp, and to Adjutant- Chur, of the Fifty-sixth Regiment, acting assistant adjutant-general, my thanks are especially due for the manner in which they conveyed and attended to the execution of my orders.* I am, ~cry respectfully, your obedient servant, J. W. IIOFMANN, Lieut. Gol. Fyty-sixth Regt. Pa. Vols., Gomdg. Second Brig. *Japtain IIALSTEAD, Assistant Adjutant- General, Doubledays Division. No. 5. Report of Lieut. Gol. Horace B. Sargent, First Massachusetts Cavalry, of reconnaissance to, and skirmish at, Snickers Gap. IIDQRS. CAVALRY EscoRt, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Snickersrille, Va., November 3, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the result of a reconnaissance made by me this day, by command of Brigadier-General Sykes, over the belt of wooded country bordering on the pike leading from this place to the Shenandoah. My orders were, first, to determine the number and the position of any hostile force on this side of the river, in this direction; second, to determine the exact position of the Shenandoah; and, third, if able to reach it, to ascertain, without crossing the river, the rebel force and position on the other side. I left General Sykes headquarters, after receiving very full and careful instructions from him, with a command, consisting of 46 mounted men of the First Massachusetts Cavalry, 219 of the Seventh Infantry, and a part of the Sixth and Fourteenth In- fantry (United States troops); number not yet reported to me. After sending a lieutenant and 12 men to feel of the wood to the right, I attempted to thread the wood on the left side of the pike road (which was at first open) with the cavalry as skirmishers, but was soon com- pelled to move by file, having infantry skirmishers in advance. After moving about a mile and debouching upon the road, I met a considera- ble force of cavalry, variously estimated at from 50 to 100 men, who com- menced firing upon the infantry skirmishers in the wood, on the right of the road, who returned the fire. After a few shots, I moved my cavalry upon them at a trot, exchanging fire, until I saw a horseman enter the Shenandoah, when I sent a dozen men to the right, to act as dismounted skirmishers, and charged with the remainder until the rebel horsemen entered the river, when I poured an incessant fire upon them. A severe fire of small-arms opened upon us from every window of a house on the opposite bank and from the shore, which killed a captain and wounded 3 men of my cavalry force, and a severe fire of shell from one or two * A list of casualties, omitted, shows loss of 5 killed and 23 wounded Page 134 134 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. C4A~. XXXI. heavy guns on the ridge compelled me to withdraw the cavalry under cover, and advance the infantry skirmishers to protect it, and make the enemy display his force. Some time elapsed after the shelling com- menced before the skirmishers were able to come to my support. Those on the right of the road deployed from their cover and made an effective fire; but I regret to say that the Fourteenth Regulars, mish earing or misconstruing time order to move, made a splendidly gallant but disas- trous charge in line of battle to the river bank, and only halted and laid down in l)art, after repeated orders, evidently unheard amid the noise. Seve-ral of these brave men fell, dead or mortally wounded; but their charge was apparently understood by the enemy to be an attempt to force the river, and instantly drew the fire of eight guns in position on the crests opposite to the ford, and caused the deployment of one or two regiments of infantry on the opposite bank. The infantry seemed to be drawli in part from behind a ridge on which their guns were placed, and in rear of which I learned there were several regiments. The three objects of my scrutiny being effected, I withdrew the forces from fire as soon as possible, bringing off our dead and wounded. If I knew the names of all the officers commanding the infantry supporting me, I should be glad to express my thanks for their ready service and efforts to second my wishes. If it is not improper, I should be glad to bear my testimony to the courage with which my deceased officer, Capt. M. C. Pratt, confronted his fate, and to the gallant behavior of my second officer, Capt. Casper Crowninshield; also Lieutenant Blagden, Lieutenant Davis, and the men of their command~ also Lieutenant Forbes. I have not been ableto obtain an official statement of the killed and wounded in this affair, although I am promised one, if possible, to.night. I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servant, HORACE BINNEY SARGENT, Lieut. Col. First Mass. Cay., Comdg. Escort, Fifth Army Corps. Major-General PORTER, Commanding Fifth Army Corps. No. 6. Ji~eport of Capt. John D. O6onnell, Fourteenth U. S. Infantry, of reconnais~ sance to, and skirmish at, ~ Gap. FIRST BRIGADE OF REGULARS, S~x~s DIVISION, Camp in Snickers Gap, Va., November 4, 1862. COLONEL: In accordance with instructions, I left camp on the 3d instant, in command of the Fourteenth Infantry, consisting of two bat- talions, the first numbering 178, and the second 121, including commis- sioned officers, making a total of 299, to join a portion of the Second Brigade of Regulars and some Massachusetts cavalry, in command of Lieutenant-Colonel Sargent, to make a reconnaissance in the direction of the Shenandoah River. Having formed the line of battle, the Four- teenth Inf~ntry occupying the right of the infantry, the cavalry the road and portions of the wood to the front, the infantry front covered by a line of skirmishers, I was directed by Captain Bootes, Sixth Infantry, senior officer of the arm, to march so that my right would be near the road, and hidden from the enemy. We passed over fields and through groves of timber, meeting with but little resistance until arriving nea Page 135 CHAr. ~ OPtRAtIO~S IN LOUDOTJN COUNtY, ttti. 135 the crest of the hill overlooking the river, when the enemys batterks opened lively upon us; but here we were protected in a great measure by tbe woods. having arrived on the crest of the hill, I ordered a halt, believing the main body had then the proper position to make the required reconnaissance. I remained in thA wood with the regiment, but in a short distance from t~e road, and seeing some officers on the road whom I took for staff officers, I called for orders, and was answered, Move forward. I did so. Captain Weed, of the artillery, was near, and must have heard the order. A number of my officers heard it. I moved forward to the river under a heavy fire of artillery and some musketry, the greater part of the latter from hidden positions. I ex- pected to meet a body of the rebel infantry, covered by the river bank. Our skirmishers fired on and, I believe, killed a number of those of the enemy. At the bank of the river I ordered the regiment to lie down, but, finding the left of the line had not come np, believed there was some mistake, and retired without orders to the wood. Here I met Lieutenant- Colonel Sargent, who asked me to send back a flag of truce for the wounded. I did so, and turned over the regiment to Captain Over- ton, and remained in the rear to see that the wounded were properly attended to. The following is a list of officers with the regiment: Captain OCon- nell, commanding First Battalion and the regiment; Companies A, Lieu- tenant Henton; B, Lieutenant Walker; C, Lieutenants Collins and Doebler; D, Lieutenant Bellows; F, Captain Smedberg and Lieuten- ant Sinclair; (~T, Lieutenants Brodhead and MeKibbin; II, Captain Watson and Lieutenant Moroney, and Lientenant Loosley, adjutant. Second Battalion, commanded by Captain Overton; Companies E and D, Captain OBeirne; C, Lieutenant Perry; F and B, Lieutenant Porter; 0-, Captain Locke, and Assistant Surgeon Jaquett. Companies E, First, and II and A, Second Battalion, were left at camp on picket, and Cap- tain Keyes as field officer of the day. The casualties were as follows: First Battalion, wounded, 11 enlisted men. Second Battalion, 1 commissioned officer, 15 enlisted men wounded; since died, 5 enlisted men. It is feared, from the nature of the wounds, that a number of the wounded will die. A number of the command were struck with stones, thrown by the bursting of shells, & c. Captain Smedberg had his coat shot through. The regimental officers and men behaved in a manner much to be admired. It is about 3~ miles to the ford; the road is very good. The river, at and in the vicinity of the ford, is about 6 rods wide, and now fordable. The enemy has about five pieces of artillery on the other side, nearly a quarter of a mile, well supported, I think, by infantry. There are some houses, apparently deserted, on both sides at the ford. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. D. OCONNELL, Captain Fourteenth Infantry, Comdg. Regiment in Field. Lieutenant-Colonel SARGENT, First Massachusetts Cavalry, near lid qrs. Fifth Army Corps. [Thdorsement.] Respectfully transmitted to headquarters, with the fullest indorse- ment as to gallant conduct of the Fourteenth U. S. Infantry in the charge referred to. No order to make such a charge w~s given by me. When I could no longer maintain my few cavalry under fire so severe it being yet necessary to force informationI ordered the infantry ski Page 136 1 5fj OPERAIioNs IN N. VA., W. VA., ML, AND PA. tCHAP. ~ inishers forward, as stated in my report. The orders to lie down and to retire~~ were given and reiterate(l by me. I left my proper com- mand for the purpose, and rode to the waters edge to shout it out; but the noise of shells and musketry from the first made all correct hearing difficult. HOIIACE BINNEY SXItGENT, Lieutenant- Colonel First iMiassachuselts Cavalry. No. 7. Reports of Brig. Gen. George D. Bayard, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade, of skirmishes at Mountville, A (die, and near Rappahannock Station. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp near Chantilly, October 31, 186212 1. m. The enemy drove in General Stonernans pickets, and followed those that escaped into Aldie, near which I was encamped. My men were quickly in the saddle, and,led by Major Falls and Captain Sawyer, drove them from the town and pursued them for 2 miles, when, reaching their reserves, our troops were forced back. Colonel Karg6, however, held the hill beyond the town with the cavalry of his brigade and two pieces of artillery. The enemy opene(l also with two l)ieCes of artillery, and an artillery duel ensued for a short time, when I withdrew 2 miles from the town, to a commanding hill. This I (lid Ofl account of my being so far in advance of any support, and so that I would be behind the roads leading from Hay Market, Gainesville, Centrevihle, an(l White Plains, by which roads my left flank was exposed, and which I had beeui compelled to strongly picket. My mcii held the town for an hour after the skirmish, when I concluded to return to camp. I regret to say. that Captain Sawyer is badly wounded, and I left about S men on the field, as I was unable to bring them away. The major of the Rhode Island Cavalry reports the loss of a captain and most of his picket. GEG. D. BAYAIID, Brigadier-General, Commanding. [Major-General SIGEL.] FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, VA., Novcmbcr 1, 18U2. We drove the enemy out of Aldie. They fell back on their reserves and repulsed our advanced squadron. They had four pieces of artillery, and an artillery duel ensued. Half my forces were used to picket iiiy left flank and secure my rear, leaving me but 1,000 men for action. The enemy did not advance. I was so fir from all support that I fell back during the night. Captain Sawyer was wounded, and I lost 8 men, I think, in the charge, and more horses. Where shall 1 draw my supplies from ~ Where establish my wagon train ~? General Si gel is too fir to the rear for any support. Cannot I transfer my sonree of supplies to Lees- burg, and mass my train in front of that l)lace ~? I go to Washington. Answer me at Willards. GEG. D. BA YARD, Brigadicr-Gencral, Commanding. It. B. MARCY, Chief of kStajJ Page 137 CHAP ~XXI.l OPERA1~IONS IN tOU1~OtJN COUNTY, ETC. 137 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTO~AC, November 1, 1862noon. Brigadier-General BAYARD, Willards Hotel: Your dispatch of this morning, from Fairfax Court-House, received. General Pleasonton, with his cavalry, will occupy Philomont to-day. General Reynolds corps will occupy Purceliville and Hamilton. Rey- nolds and Barusides corps will advance to-morrow to near Aldie and Middleburg. Under these circumstances, the commanding general di- rects that you march your command toward Aldie, keeping your scouts well out to the front, so as to warn you of any very large force of the enemy, and, if you find you are to encounter too heavy a force, you will turn to the right toward Leesburg, and pass around in the direction of the river, so as to form a junction with this army at the earliest practicable moment. Please send your wagons to Leesburg, from whence you can draw your supplies from Whites Ford, or, perhaps, Edwards Perry. General Stoneman received his supplies from Whites Ford. You had better see that sufficient supplies are sent by canal-boats to opposite Leesburg before you leave Washington. Please acknowledge the re- ceipt of this, and inform me when you will probably reach Aldie and Leesburg. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. NOVEMBER 1, 1862. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of General ]IfcClellans Staff: SIR: Your dispatch is received. I will be in Aldie to-morrow by 1 oclock. I cannot tell when my train will be in Leesburg; I presume by iiight. I had yesterday a horse battery from General Sigels corps. There is another in General Sickles division. I sent back Sigels bat- tery this morning, and, therefore, will have to move without artillery, unless a battery is ordered to me. I should like to have the battery from General Sigels corps. GEG. D. BAYARD, Brigadier-General, Commanding Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp at Rajpjpahannoek Station, Va., November 10, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that last evening the enemy opened with two pieces of artillery at a private ford, just above the bridge. After firing about half a dozen shots at the picket there, they moved up to Beverly Ford, and opened there in the same manner, and then withdrew about dark. Nobody hurt. The picket at Beverly Ford reports that their carbines killed 1 officer. I moved up with cavalry and two pieces of artillery, but in both instances they were too quick for me, and withdrew before I could get the pieces in position. General Taylors brigade has only 1,000 effective men. I think there should be a brigade of infantry at Bealeton, as my left flank is entirely exposed. I send down toward Fredericksburg a squadrou of cavalry each day. The horses get better fed while they are away from here is the reason that I send so large a force Page 138 lag OPERKflONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Mb., AND PA [~IIAP. ~Ct. Large numbers of my horses are rendered useless by the disease raging among them. My whole command has not more than 1,200 efl~ctive horses. General McClellan ordered up Colonel Prices brigade to join me, but 1 have heard nothing from him. Will you hurry him up I Colonel Kargd has about 600 men stationed where the road to Freemans Ford comes into the road to this place. If you send any infantry to Bealeton, I will order my brigade train to stay there. Otherwise I shall order it up here, as Warrenton is too far for it to be stationed. As I reported to General Reynolds, I have limited my scouting to Sulphur Springs, the Maine cavalry being there. Will you be so kind as to send me a New York and Washington paper? I have not seen one since I left the latter place. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. BAYARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding U. S. Forces. General JOHN G. PARKE. No. 8. Report of Brig. Gen. A. Sanders Piatt, U. S. Army, of reconnaissance to Mianassas Gap, and skirmish. PIEDMONT, VA., November 7, 186212.25 a. m. GENERAL: Your dispatch by signal just received. In compliance therewith, I have to state that, in accordance with the orders received from you, through General Whipple, to make reconnaissance of Manassas Gap, I marched through the gap ou the evening of the 5th as far as the cavalry had advanced. We reached that point after dark. The cavalry being in doubt as to the real strength of the enemy, and not being ac- quainted with the road myself, I deemed it prudent to wait till morning. On the following morning the cavalry were ordered to join General Avereli, and did so. I threw out skirmishers on each side, and, with- out cavalry, moved forward. In this way we proceeded to the north- west end of the gap, when my advance skirmishers were fired upon by artillery. I immediately placed a section on a commanding point, on the left-hand side of the road, commanding the position occupied by the enemys artillery, and on the right-hand side another section, com- manding the main position of the enemy. Both sections were supported by infantry. I placed one regiment in the center, on the road, so as to be available on either side, or to be rallied upon, if necessary. The in- fantry were all kept out of sight of the enemy. The artillery of the enemy was soon silenced, and they were forced to retire from their posi- tion. Not yet satisfied as to their real strength, I ordered up a skir- mishing party on the mountain, to drive in their vedettes, which they did, capturing two cavalry horses. I immediately changed the section on the left of the road, placing it in a commanding position on the right. I ordered up the One hundred and twenty-fourth New York to move on the right, so as to flank their position, and the One hundred and twenty-second on the left, for the same purpose, while the Eighty-sixth New York moved up the center, in front. The One hundred and twenty- second, owing to the inequality of the ground, and not fully understand- ing the order, failed to come up in time. Finding this, I threw them ~n the right to support the artillery. After a few well-directed shots Page 139 189 which wounded 2 or 3 of their men (the enemys), if not killing some, they were routed from their position. The One hundred and twenty- fourth having reached its point of destination, drove them completely out of the gap, passing to the valley beyond. The enemy changed the position of their guns five times, in order to get the range of my infantry, intending to rake their ranks and then precipitately retire. This they failed to do. Having dispersed them as far as possible with infantry, I made a careful view of the valley from the main point, whence I was able to discover the three camps and park of wagons noticed in my signal report to-day. I was informed by a citizen, living in the mouth of the gap, where the enemy was posted, that General Hills forces were at Front Royal, and he himself being present in the gap at the commencement of the skirmish. Having received an order from General Whipple to join him at Water- loo, if the force in the gap did not require the presence of my brigade, which I did not think it did, as I look upon the enemy there as a strong outpost, to prevent an attack in the valley without notice to them, and being relieved by a squadron of cavalry reporting to me, and being without provisions, tents, or blankets for my men, I gave what instruc- tions I deemed necessary to the cavalry officer, and marched back to this point. En route, at Markham, I met Generals Pleasontons and Averells trains where I was able to obtain provisions for one company. This company I left for the better protection of the train, ordering them to report to me if anything occurred. Here I await further orders, and am, general, your obedient servant, A. SANDERS PIATT, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. GEOUGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding. No. 9. Report of Lient. Got. James ~. Fillebrown, Tenth Maine Infantry, of affair near & ickersville. HEADQUARTERS TENTH MAINE REGIMENT, Berlin, [Md.], .Yovember 9, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that First Lient. (3. H. Penning, commanding one section each of Thompsons and Matthews batteries, attached to General Hookers command, also I wagon of General Rick- etts headquarters, 3 wagons connected with the batteries, 1 ambulance, about 60 horses, and 40 men, was yesterday attacked by the enemy near Snickersville, and, being without cannoneers, was obliged to retire, firing only one gun, and is now on this side of the river. I have caused one section of guns to be put in position on the hill to the rear of my camp, which will command the road opposite some 2 miles out, and also the bridge. The other I have at the bridge, to dispute the passage there. Captain Schofield, in command of detachment of Engineer Corps, has instructions to protect the ford above, and the officer in command of fatigue party, of the One hundred and twenty-fifth Pennsylvania Volun- teers, below the town; while one company of this regiment, on th Page 140 140 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXL opposite side of the river guarding stores, have instructions to act as a picket guard in case of an attack. Should any of General Stuarts force propose to make us a visit, we are prepared to give him or them a warm reception. The train of con- valescents left here this morning about 12 oclock. I am, very respectfully, colonel, your obedient servant J. S. FILLEBRO~kTN Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Tenth Miaine Regiment. Lieut. Col. H. C. RODGERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Twelfth Army Corps. No. 10. Report of General Robert E. Lee, C. S. Army, 9/action at C1orbins Gross- Roads, near Amissville. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, November 10, 1862. SIR: Finding that the enemy had apparently halted in his advance, I directed General Stuart to move with his cavalry, penetrate the line of l)ickets, and endeavor to ascertain his disposition. Accordingly, this morning, with Lees brigade and two regiments of infantry, he drove them back to A missville, causing them to withdraw from Washington and to recall a party that was al)parently proceeding down the river below Rappahannock Station. Upon reaching Amissville the enemy advanced against him three brigades of infantry, which caused him to retire. This was done in good order, and his loss during the day was 4 wounded. A few of the enemy were killed and more wounded. He ascertained that none of their infantry was established this side of the Rappahannock, but saw large encampments beyond Warrenton, which were said to be Sigels. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, RE.LEE, General. Hon. GEORGE W. RANDOLPH, Secretary of War, Richmond, Va. No. 11. Report of Maj. (len. J. F. B. Stuart, C. S. Army, commanding cavalry, of operations October 30November 6. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, February 27, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the cavalry division from October 30, 1862, when I crossed the Blue Ridge, to November 6, 1862, when my command recrossed the Rappahannock, including notices of operations along that front subse- quent to that time: On October 30, 1862, it having been ascertained that the enemy had crossed the Potomac in force in the vicinity of Leesburg, I was directed by the commanding general to cross at once with one brigade of my command into Loudoun, with a view to watch the enemys movements Page 141 CHAP. XXXI] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 141 and to delay his progress while our army was changing its position, so as to confront him on the Itappahannock. At this time General Longstreet was moving his corps by way of Front Royal to Culpeper. Jones brigade was left to bring up Jacksons rear in the valley, while Hamptons brigade, then in the vicinity of Mar- tinsburg, was ordered to join me near Upperville by November 3. I crossed with Fitz. Lees brigade, under Col. Williams C. Wickham (Brig. Gen. Fitz. Lee having been disabled), and six pieces of the Stuart Horse Artillery, under Maj. John Pelham, at Castlemans Ferry and Snickers Gap. This brigade had been much diminished and its effi- ciency greatly impaired by the greased heel and sore tongue, at that time prevailing among the horses, and some of the regiments scarcely numbered 100 men for duty,-the aggregate of the brigade for duty being less than 1,000. Proceeding in the direction of Middleburg, I bivouacked that night near Bloomfield. Having ascertained (luring the night that there was a force of the enemy at Mountville, where the Snickersville turnpike crosses Goose Creek, I started on the morning of the 31st with the command for that point. Pursuing an unfrequented road, I succeeded in surprising the enemy, who were in force of about 100, and dispersing the whole with- out difficulty; killed and captured nearly the whole number, among the former Captain Gove, of the First Rhode Island Cavalry. The attack was made by the Ninth Virginia, in advance, supported by the Third, which last continued the pnrsuit of the fugitives several miles, to Aldie. Here, the enemy being in force, the Third Virginia retired to the hill overlooking the town until re-enforced by the rest of the command. The Fourth Virginia, now in advance, pushed on toward the village, meeting midway a column of the enemy charging up the lane. After a brief and fierce conflict, the leading squadron of the enemy was put to flight, and driven pell-mell down the narrow lane upon the next squadron, which was moving up at a gallop. The collision between these two bodies resulted in serious damage to both, and the whole was soon put to flight and driven into the village. The enemys artillery, which crowned the heights adjoining the village, now opened upon our ad- vancing columns, and compelled us to discontinue the pursuit. Our pursuit ha(l been too rapid for the artillery to keep pace, but it finally came up, and was put in position on the heights overlooking the village, a.n(l opened a destructive fire npon the enemy, compelling him to aban- don his l)osition. At this time I was deterred from further attack by information that the enemy was advancing from the direction of Mount- ville, which I had just left, and which was completely in my rear. I therefore retired just at dark, by way of Middleburg, to a point a few miles beyond that place, where we encamped for the night. It was subsequently ascertained that General Bayard was in command of the enemys forces, and that they retreated, without halting, to Fair- fax Court-House, and that t!ie reported advance from Monntville was a mistake. The enemy suffered heavily in killed and wounded. Our own loss was very slight. In the camp captured at Mountville several flags, numbers of saddles, valises, blankets, oil-cloths, and other valuable ar- ticles were captured, which the enemy had abandoned in their hasty flight. During November 1, a portion of my command being near Union, a point midway between the two turnpikes, it was ascertained that the enemy was advancing from the direction of Leesburg and debouching upon the turnpike at Philomont, a few miles above Mountville. Ou Page 142 142 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. pickets having been attacked at that point, the brigade was moved through Union to their support. At this time General D. H. Hill, with his division, was in the vicinity of Upperville and Paris, and my com- mand was so disposed as to cover his front. J immediately took posi- tion on the Union Heights to check the enemys advance if he were in heavy force, or,if only a force of cavalry, to attack him. The enemy spent the remainder of the day iii reconnoitering, displaying very little force, and in the skirmishing which took place our lines were advanced to the vicinity of Philomout. The playing of bands and other indica- tions rendered it almost certain that there was a large force of infantry present. The command, having encamped for the night near their for- mer position, moved early next morning (November ~) to reoccupy the line of battle held the previous day. About 8 oclock, the enemy began to deploy in our front both infantry and cavalry, with six or eight pieces of artillery. Our dispositions were made to receive him by posting artillery advantageously, and the cav- alry dismounted behind the stone fences, which were here very numer- ous, and, consequently, afforded the enemy as good shelter as ourselves. Having to watch all the avenues leadiu~ to my rear, my effective force for fighting was very much diminished, but the Stuart Horse Artillery, under the incomparable Pelham, Support7e(l by the cavalry sharpshooters, made a gallant and obstinate resistance, maintaining their ground for the greater part of the day, both suffk~ring heavily, one of our caissons exploding from the enemys shot. It was during this engagement that Major Pelham conducted a howitzer some distance beyond support to a neighboring hill and opened a masked fire upon a body of the enemys cavalry in the valley beneath, putting them to flight, capturing their flag and various articlestheir arms, e(luipmnents, and horses, as well as some prisonerssustaining in this extraordinary feat no loss whatever. The enemy finally enveloped our position with his superior numbers, both infantry and cavalry, so as to compel our withdrawal; but every hill-top and every foot of ground was disputed, so that the enemy made progress of less than a mile during the day. The enemy were held at bay until dark at Seatons Hill, which they assailed with great deter- mination, but were each time signally repulsed by the ~vell-directed fire of the Horse Artillery. Major Pelham, directing one of the shots him- self at the color-bearer of an infantry regiment, struck him down at a distance of 800 yards. During this withdrawal, Captain Bullock, of the Fifth Virginia Cavalry, by great presence of min(l and bravery, saved himself from capture in a very perilous position. At night I bivouacked the command east of Upperville, with the view of occupying as a line of battle the ground along the creek below the town. Some few of our wounded, who were so much disabled that they could not be moved, were left in hospital near Union, with surgeons and nurses. Captain Blackford, of the Engineers, had been sent with a reconnoi- tering party to the Blue Ridge, to take a view of the enemy from that elevation. He reported immense trains of wagons coming from Lees- burg toward Union, which, together with what had been developed in front, convinced me that it was McClellans army on a forward move- ment. My instructions in case of such a movement were to move along the east side of the ridge, keeping in front of the enemy, and delaying his progress as much as possible- but in an interview with General D. H. Hill, at Upperville, he expressed a great desire that I should retire through Ashbys Gap, as it was, he said, of the greatest importance that the enemy should be delayed there in order to enable Jacksons corps to get away. J acquiesced in this arrangement, as I knew that I coul Page 143 CHAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 143 detach part of the command to keep along east of the Blue Ridge while the rest was thus occupied, especially as Hamptons brigade was then expected. On the morning of November 3, about 9 a. in., the enen~y advanced on our new position with cavalry, infantry, and artillery, moving simul- taneously by all the roads and fords. His progress was obstinately and successfully resisted for nearly the entire day. Before the position was yielded, Col. Williams C. Wickham, command- ing the brigade, who during all these operations had displayed great zeal, ability, and bravery, was struck in the neck by a fragment of a shell, which deprived me for the time being of his valuable services. He was succeeded in the command by Col. T. L. Rosser, of the Fifth Vir- ginia Cavalry. Breatheds battery, of the Stuart Horse Artillery, added to its many laurels on these hard-fought fields, and was materially assisted by a battery from General D. H. Hills command, which had been sent to re-enforce me. Late in the afternoon, the enemy having moved so as to turn my left flank, I withdrew through Upperville, sending the First and Fifth Vir- ginia Cavalry to Piedmont, so as to constitute a rear guard for our trains, which had passed on that road. XVith the remainder of the command I took up successive positions, resisting the enemys advance from Up- perville to the gap, near Paris. Upon arriving at this gap I found a small infantry force, with some artillery, posted on the heights, left by General D. H. Hill to report to me. One of these guns was a Whit- worth, under Captain Hardaway, which, at a single shot, drove away a battery of the enemy, posted near Upperville, 3 or 4 miles off. General D. H. Hill had previously left, with the main portion of his command, by the Front Royal road. The enemy manifested at nightfall no intention of advancing on my front, but, anticipating a flank movement by a por- tion of their force on the road leading from Upperville to Piedmont Sta- tion, on the Manassas Gap Railroad, I directed Colonel Rosser to repair to the latter point, intending to make another stand at this point the next morning, with the re enforcement of Hamptons brigade. The Fifth Vir~inia Cavalry, Major [B. B.] Douglas commanding, and the First Virginia Cavalry, by misconstruction of my orders, left Piedmont that evening, and as Colonel Rosser approached it from Paris after dark the place was found in possession of the enemy, Colonel Rosser encounter- ing the enemys picket between the two points, and moving so as to in- terpose his command between Markham and Piedmont. Finding, upon my arrival at Paris, that General Jackson was not in motion, and that his headquarters were at Millwood, I presumed that his plans had been changed since my instructions from the commanding general. I there- fore repaired to Miliwood to ascertain. Upon arriving there, I was in- formed by General Jackson that, inst cad of following General Longstreet, he would remain in the valley, so as to be upon McClellans flank. A (letermined stand, therefore, at Paris Gap being unnecessary, I directed the infantry and artillery there of General D. H. Hills command to pro- ceed to rejoin him at Front Royal, while the cavalry picket, under Cap- tain [XV. II] Woold ridge, Fourth Virginia Cavalry, was to retire, on the enemys approach, by the same route. Hamptons brigade, having reached Millwood, was, on the morning - of the 4th, ordered to join the other brigade at Markham, while I pro- ceeded on the same morning by a nearer route to the same point. The enemy had, however, gained possession of that point before I reached it, our forces retiring toward Barbees Cross-Roads. I proceeded, there- fore, to Linden; where I found Hamptons brigade, and diverted its lin Page 144 144 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [CUAP. XXXL of march toward Barbees Cross-Roads, where it arrived late in the night of the 4th. General D. H. fill was holding the gap at Linden at this time with some infantry and artillery, with which I left a detachment of the Phillips Legion Cavalry. I learned that Colonel Rosser had moved from his position at Markham that evening, the enemy having advanced upon him with such a force as to compel him to withdraw, without, however, any serious loss. In this engagement Captain Henrys bat- tery, of the Stuart Horse Artillery, behaved with the most signal gal. lantry. On the morning of the 5th, I determined to give battle to the enemys cavalry, should he advance at B arbees Cross-Roads. Dispositions were made accordingly, Lees brigade being on our right and Hamptons on the left. The crest of the hill immediately north of the town was occri- pied by our artillery and sharpshooters, with a vie~w to rake the enemys column as it moved up the road; but the main position for defense was just at the cross-roads, where the main body was held in reserve. Toward 9 a. m. the enemy advanced, and a fierce engagement of ar- tillery and sharpshooters ensued, lasting for some hours. The enemy at length approached under cover of ravines and woods, and my com- mand held the position near the cross-roads, where our artillery had complete control of the approaches. At this juncture I received infor- mation that the enemy was in Warrenton. This information, together with the delay and lack of vigor in the enemys attack at this point, led me to believe that this was only a demonstration to divert my attention from his move on Warrenton. I accordingly gave orders to Hampton and Rosser to withdraw, the former by the Flint Hill road, the latter by the Orleans road, as the withdrawal of both by the same route would have been next to impossible. In withdrawing, there was a sharp con- flict between the First North Carolina Cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colo- nel Gordon, and the enemy on the left, that regiment suffering a good deal. Many interesting particulars of this engagement will be found in the accompanying report of Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon, as well~as the casualties attending his command.* Other reports have not be~n furnished. The enemy made no pursuit. Upon arriving at Orleans,7 miles distant, it was ascertained that the report of the occupation of Warrenton by the enemy was a mistake. The enemy had attacked the place, but had been gallantly repulsed by a portion of the Second North Carolina Cavalry, under Lieutenant- Colonel [W. H.] Payne, of the Fourth Virginia Cavalry. Lees brigade bivouacked that night in the neighborhood of Orleans. On the next morning, November 6, I sent a portion of the command, nuder Colonel Rosser, to occupy Warrenton, and crossed the Rappahan- nock at Waterloo Bridge. Rosser, having reached Warrenton, fimud that the enemy was advancing on his rear as well as front, and was therefore compelled to leave the place. Meeting the enemy in his path, he skillfully eluded him, bringing off his little band, without loss, to the south side of the Rappahannock. Leaving Hamptons brigade to cover the front of Sperryville, with his advance posts at Gaines Cross-Roads and Amissville, I moved with Lees brigade to Jeffersonton, keeping outposts on the Rappahannock. Our cavalry kept in constant contact with the enemy, not a day passing without a conflict. In one of these, near Gaines Cross-Roads, a portion of Hamptons command behaved with great gallantry, and routed the enemy. In this engagement Major [W. G.] Delony, of the Cobb Legion, was wounded. * Report of casualties not found Page 145 CHAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS iN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 145 The enemy moved over two brigades of infantry to Jeffersonton, and kept a large force of cavalry, with a strong infantry support, at Amiss- yule. With a view to dislodge the latter, I concerted a simultaneous attack with Hamptons and Lees brigades on the enemy there, supported by two regiments of infantry, under Col. Carnot Posey, of the Sixteenth Mississippi. Hampton did not receive the orders in time to co-operate, but the remainder of the force advanced upon the enemy, dislodged him from his position, and he was rapidly retiring when a large force of infantry came to his relief. The command was, therefore, leisurely returned to camp. The army of McClellau now occupied Warrenton and its vicinity, with strong infantry outposts on the Rappahannock, and Longstreets corps occupied Culpeper County, with my cavalry interposed between him and the enemy, along the Rappahannock and in the forks of the Hazel and Aestham Rivers. In all these operations I deem it my duty to bear tostimony to the gallantry and patient endurance of the cavalry, fighting every day most unequal conflicts, and successfully opposing for an extraordinary period the onward march of McClellan. The Stuart Horse Artillery comes in for a full share of this praise, and its gallant commander (Maj. John Pelham) exhibited a skill and courage which I have never seen surpassed. On this occasion I was more than ever struck with that extraordinary coolness and mastery of the situation which more eminently characterized this youthful offi- cer than any other artillerist who has attracted my attention. His coup dwil was accurate and comprehensive his choice of ground made with the eye of military genius, and his dispositions always such in retiring as to render it impossible for the enemy to press us without being se- verely punished for his temerity. His guns only retired from one posi- tion to assume another, and open upon the enemy with a fire so destruc- tive that it threw their ranks into confusion and arrested their farther progress. I regret that it is not in my power to furnish a complete list of cas- nalties. My thanks are due to Brigadier-General Hampton and Colonels Wick- ham and Rosser for the zeal and ability displayed. I was greatly indebted to my staff for valuable aid, particularly Maj. Norman R. Fitzhugh, assistant adjutant-general, and to those already mentioned in the body of the report. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. E. B. STUART, Major- General. No. 12. R~port of Lieut. Col. J. B. Gordon, First North Carolina Cavalry, of action at Barbees Cross-Roads. BRANDY STATION, VA., November 22, 1862. SIu: I have the honor to make the following report of the part enacted by the First North Carolina Cavalry during the cavalry fight at Bar- bees Cross-Roads, on the5thinstant: About 12 oclock, I was ordered, through courier from General Hamp- ton, to send one squadron to the cross-roads, 1 mile from camp, to act as sharpshooters. In a few minutes afterward I was ordered by General 10 R RYOI~ XIX, PT I Page 146 146 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. Hampton in person to move the remainder of the command (four squad- ions, 275 men) up to support the Cobb Legion, which was near the bat- tery, three-fourths of a mile distant, bnt to place the regiment in such position as not to be seen by the enemy, and so as to be protected from their artillery. In moving up the road toward the point designated (half a mile), I saw the enemy in a large body on my left, on the oppo- site side of the field, some 600 yards across. I discovered that I could be flanked and cut oft in moving farther up. I therefore moved in the direction of the enemy, placing the command in a depression in the field, which protected us from their sharpshooters and artillery. The enemy, disCovering a portion of the men, sent out some mounted skirmishers, who commenced firing at the column. I dismounted a few men and l)laced them on the crest of the hill in front, where they soon drove back the enemys skirmishers. I sent a courier to General Hampton, reporting the position of the enemy. As he caine up, a squadron of Yankee cavalry dashed up along a stone fence in frant. I asked him if I should charge them, stating to him at the same time that there was a large body of the enemy upon my right, behind a stone feitee, and that they had sharpshooters also posted there. He replied no, there was no stone fence there; that he had been there during the morning, and that it was open. lie then ordered me to charge, the regiment being in a column of squadrons. I asked him if I should charge in squad- ron form. He rel)lied yes, and that he would support me with the Sec- ond South Carolina Regiment. I ordered the charge. The men moved out J)romptly, going rapidly at the men we could see. The enemy fled rapidly as soon as they discovered that we were charging them ,passing through a narrow opening in the stone fence and going over a hill in rear. As we got near the fence we encountered a broad ditch, concealed by grass and weeds, into which a number of horses fell, dismounting the riders. I ordered the men in front to pass through the opening in the fence in pursuit. A few only had passed when we recei;~ed a with- ering fire from 1St) dismounted men and one piece of artillery, placed behind the stone fence on our ri~ht flank, running at an angle from the one in front. From this fire a number of men and horses were shot (lown. Seeing no chance to get at the enemy, and being exposed to a terrible fire from the sharpshooters and artillery (which were near by), I ordered the regiment to retire from that position by the left-about wheel. As the squadrons were wheeling, to my surprise I saw a large body of cavalry charging upon us from the right, which had been con- cealed from view by a hill. The regiment fell back across the hill to the point where it started, where it reformed, with the exception of some or the mcii who went into the road against orders. The enemy dashed up boldly, but did not enter the column, except 3, who were captured or killed. The Second South Carolina Regiment did not come to my sul)- l)Ort, as promised. I have learned since that it was blocked in the road by the Cobb Legion. Major Delony, of the Legion, came up with a few men, and lie, in connection with Captain Cowles and Lieutenant Suer, of my command, made a dash at the enemy, when they ran back. I lost in this affair 4 men killed and 17 wounded an(1 captured. The captured men were dismounted at the ditch. The enemy report a loss of 4 men killed. Very resl)ectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. GORDON, Liemttenant- Colonel, Commanding. Capt. T. G. BARKER, As8istan t Adjutant- General, IlarnRtons Brigade Page 147 CHAP. XXXI.] OPERATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, ETC. 147 No. 13. Report of Maj. Elijah V. White, Virginia Carairy Battalion, of sUrmish at Philomont. NOVEMBER 14, 1862. COLONEL: I desire to bring before your notice and the commanding general the gallant conduct of the following-named privates, members of Company A, of my battalion, viz: Mortimer W. Palmer, R. Henry Simpson, David J. Lee, and Robert A. Ititacor, who, on the 9th instant, charged and drove out of the town of Philornont, Loudoun County, Va., 50 Yankee cavalry, wonnding 1 Yankee, capturing 2 negroes and 3 wagons from the rear of a long train, which they brought safely into camp. This daring and heroic deed was performed at a distance of 13 miles from any Confederate force, and about fifteen minutes after a regiment of infantry of the enemy had passed through the place, by these four daring and gallant fellows. I think snch conspicuous and brave conduct deserves the notice of their country and brethren in arms. Very respectfully, ELIJAH V. WHITE, Major, ~ommanding Cavalry Battalion. Col. T. T. MUNFORD, Commanding ~Javalry Brigade. No. 14. Report of Col. Thomas 19. Rosser, Fifth Virginia Cavalry, commanding Lees brigade, of action at Corbins Cross-Roads, near Amissvillc. HEADQUARTERS LEES BRIGADE, November 13, 18628.30 p. ni. GENERAL: I have just returned, and have seen that your instructions are carried out. I went within three-quarters of a mile of Waterloo Bridge; saw a small squad of the enemy a short way from the road; sent a small party from the First Virginia in pursuit of them. The enemy, having a regiment in the woods near by, charged this party. As soon as I discovered them, I ordered Colonel [James H.] Drake to charge, which he (lid so promptly and gallantly that the enemy fled, leaving 12 of their number in Drakes hands, although the whole affair was in full view of thousands of their friends on the other side of the river (across which their cavalry had but a few moments been driven) and in close cannon shot. Darkness coming on, and the enemys sharpshooters having taken up a strong position in the thick woods in front of me, 1 thought it best to withdraw, the Fourth and Third having failed to get l)055e55i011 of Amissville (reporting a force there), and this being some- what in my rear. I saw two regiments of cavalry near Waterloo and a strong infantry picket, and learned, from a source thought to be entirely reliable, that the enemy was erecting a temporary bridge at Waterloo by felling trees across the river and forming a bridge upon them. They were over after corn this evening, and I came near capturing their wagons. I am positive that they have only cavalry on this side, except small in- fantry force for picket. I left a picket at Jefferson and near Amissville. I left Drake on the other side of the river as a support to the pickets Page 148 148 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CI~AL. XXXI. Scouts report Sigel between Warrenton and Waterloo. Burnside is at Warrenton. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, T. L. ROSSER, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. General J. E. B. STUART, Commanding Cavalry. P. S.Upon the exl)editioll I lost 3 or 4 horses only, having none of my men in~jured or captured. I captured about 30 prisoners. T.L.IR. OCTOBER 29, 1862.Capture of Confederate pickets opposite Williams- port, Nd. I~EPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. William W. Averell, U. S. Army, comma~ding Cavalry Brigade. No. 2.Brig. Gen. John II. Kenly, U. S. Army, commanding Maryland Brigade. No. 1. R~port of Brig. Gen. William W. Averell, U. ~. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade. WILLIA1~SPORT, October 29, 18624.30 p. m. SIR: My brigade arrived in the vicinity of this place about 2.30 p. m. After a short consultation with General Kenly, concluded to cap- ture enemys pickets on other side of river before crossing. Lieutenant McMachan, of the First Maryland Cavalry, with 15 men, crossed above, in order to get behind the pickets. After he had safely crossed, with- out being discovered, a flag of truce appeared, covering 6 persons, among whom was the late Colonel Brien. Just as the business of the flag was concluded, and it had started on its return, Lieutenant Mc- Machan dashed npon the picket of 6 men and brought it off before its reserve could interfere. He did not iiiterfere with the flag or the persons under it. General Hampton stated by the flag that it was not to affect any military operations only on the pike, and,on that, it should only cover the party carrying it. The prisoners belong to the First North Carolina Cavalry, Hamptons brigade. They were reviewed yesterday by General Stuart, they say, this side of Martinsbnrg. Hamp- tons brigade is composed of infantry, cavalry, and artillery. There are four regiments of cavalry; they do not know how much infantry; of artillery, one says they have several batteries; another says but one. That force, I have not the slightest doubt, is between me and Martins- burg, and is much stronger than mine. Bad I another regiment of cav- alry, or were my horses in better condition, I would not hesitate to at- tack, and will, anyhow, if the general commanding desires it. With regard to the main body of the enemy, the prisoners know nothing since Saturday; they say they do not know that it has moved. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General, Volnuteers. [Lient.] Col. OLIVER D. GREENE, Chief of Staff, Sixth CorRs, Army of the Potomac Page 149 ChAP. XXXI.1 CAPTURE OF CONFEDERATE tiCt{ETS IN MP. 149 No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. John R. Kenly, U. ~. Army, commanding Maryland Brigade. HEADQUARTERS, Williamsport, November 3, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to forward, for your. consideration, the inch~sed papers, relating to the capture of 6 rebels by my orders on the 29th ultimo, viz: No. 1. My official report of the capture to Lient. Col. 0. D. Greene, chief of staff and assistant adjutant-general, Sixth Army Corps. No. 2. Maj. C. II. Russells report to me of the capture, inclosing Lieut. Henry McMachans report to him. No. 3. An abstract of the statements made by the prisoners after their capture. No. 4. A letter from Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, of the rebel army, in relation to the capture. No. 5. My answer to the letter referred to as No. 4. No. 6. A letter from Brig. Gen. Wade Hampton, on the same subject. No. 7. My answer to the letter referred to as No. 6. No. 8. The report of Lieutenant Smith, First North Carolina Cavalry, of the rebel army, to General Hampton, of the capture of the 6 men of his picket. I beg leave to report that, after my refusal to surrender the prisoners, Captain Cowles, of the rebel army, who handed me in person the letter marked No. 6, said that he was directed by General Hampton to re- quest me, in case of my refusal to deliver up the prisoners, to forward the matter for the consideration of your headquarters, which I accord- ingly do. 1 still hold the prisoners.. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN It. KENLY, Brigadier- General, Maryland Brig., Comdg. at Williamsport. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Army of the Potomac, Washington. [Inc1o~ure No. 1.] HEADQUARTERS, Williamsport, Va., October 29, 1862. I have the honor to report that Brigadier-General Averell, command. ing First Brigade of Cavalry, arrived at my post at this 1.30 p. m. After making known to me his object, and upon consultation, it was detel- mined to attempt the capture of the enemys pickets on the opposite side of the river. I ordered Maj. C. H. Russell, commanding squadron First Maryland Cavalry, to have it done, and it was handsomely effected by Lieutenant McMachau, of his command, with 15men. About one hour and a half after the order was given Major Russell, I was informed that a flag of truce was on the Virginia shore. I sent for Captain Mobley, Sev- enth Maryland Regiment, provost-marshal of this town, and instructed him to receive the flag on that shore. It was, however, crossing the river when he reached the river bank. He received the flag on this shore, and gave to the officer in charge a letter to L. T. Brien, esq., from his wife. The officer notified Captain Mobley that the flag of truce did not cover operations off from the turnpike, and only on it to the party with the flag; and this he was instructed to say by General Hamp- ton. After the flag, with its party, had ~rossed the river, Lieutenan Page 150 150 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. ~XXL MeMachan dashed from the wood and captured the pickets. No one with the flag was molested. 1 desire to report to you that when General Averell and I determined to capture the pickets, neither of us had any idea that a fl!tg of truce was approaching. From the prisoners I learned that Hamptons brigade of cavalry, with a battery or so of artillery, was lying between the river and Martins- burg. His brigade consists of the First North Carolina, Tenth Virginia, Phillips Legion, and Cobbs Legion of Cavalry, all of which were re- viewed by General Stuart yesterday. I have not a doubt that this force is where it is represented to be. I beg to report that within half an hour after the capture of the pick- ets they were replaced from their reserve, which was lying at the time of the capture some few hundred yards off. I have the honor to be, & c., very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN II. KENLY, Brigadier- General, Maryland Brigade. Lieut. Col. OLIVER D. GREENE, Asst. Adjt. Gem and Chief of Staff, Sixth Corps, iliagerstown. [Inclosure No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS SQUADRON FIRST MARYLAND CAVALRY, Williamsport, Md., October 31, 1862. Brig. Gen. JOHN It. KENLY, Commanding U. S. Forces at Williamsport and vicinity: SIR: I have the honor to inclose and forward to you the report of Lieutenant MeMachan, who was sent, according to your orders, by me to capture the enemys picket, stationed across the river, opposite Will- iamsport. I saw the picket captured, and know that the men captured by my lieutenant had no connection with the party bearing the flag of truce mentioned by him nor did the flag of truce in any way possible cover or protect the picket captured.. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, C. H. RUSSELL, Major, Commanding Squadron First Maryland Cavalry. [Sub-inclosure.] WILLIAMSPORT, [MD.], October 31, 1862. SIR: In accordance with orders received from you on the 29th instant, I proceeded across the Potomac, with 15 men, on purpose to capture the enemys picket, stationed on the neck opposite Williamsport. Crossing the river at Sharpless Warehouse, I kept the woods until I struck the Williamsport and Martinsburg turnpike, beyond the picket station. I then dashed down, and succeeded in the capture of the en- tire picket (6 in number). At the same time I came in contact with a party of the enemy bearing a flag of truce, which I permitted to pass unmolested. I knew nothing of the flag of truce until I surprised it in dashing down upon the picket, nor did any one in the Federal service know any- thing of it until I was too far on the excursion to be recalled. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY McMACHAN, Commanding Company I, First Maryland Cavalry. Maj. CHARLES II. RUSSELL Page 151 ~ThAP. Xx~t.~ CAPTtJflE OF CONFEDERATE PWKETS IN MD. 151 (Inclosuro No. 3.] Williani II. Johnson, from Ashe County, North Carolina, private Company A, First North Carolina Cavalry.Had been sent after forage, and was looking over the river to Williamsport, and was just going to start back when captured. Christian Burkett was with Johnson after forage. The other men were regular pickets, and on duty when captured. Christian Burkett, Ashe County, North Carolina, private Company A, First North Carolina Cavalry.Was regularly detailed for picket, but was not on post when captured. Had been after forage with Johnson, and was looking over the river when captured. A. J. Miller, Ashe County, North Carolina, private Company A, First North Carolina Cavalry.Regularly detailed for picket duty, and was on I)ost with J. S. Parsons when captured. Our whole company was on picket duty that day. James Ray and S. C. Parsons coming to the river when captured. John S. Parsons, Alleghany County, North Carolina, private Coin- pally A, First North Carolina Cavalry.Was regularly detailed for l)icket duty, and was on post at the time captured. A. J. Miller was cap- tured on post at the same time. S. C. Parsons and James Ray were coming to relieve us when they were captured. James Ray, Ashe County, North Carolina, private Company A, First North Carolina Cavalry.Was regnlarly detailed for picket (luty, and was on my way with Solomon [C.] Parsons to relieve John [S.] Parsons and [A.] J. Miller, who were on post at the time of our capture. Solomon C. Parsons, Company A, First North Carolina Cavalry.Was regularly (letailed for picket duty, and was on my way with Ray to re- lieve the party on post when captured. Miller and John S. Parsons were on the post we were to relieve. [Indorsement.] The statements made within are the correct statements made by the l)arties themselves this day in relation to their capture whilst on picket duty. 1~D. M. MOBLEY, Captain, Provost-Marshal. WILLJAMSPORT, VA., November 1, 1862. [Thelosure No. 4. Not founa.] [Inclosere No. 5.] HEADQUARTERS, Willianzsport, Va., October 30, 1862. Brig. Gen. WADE HAMPTON: GENERAL: I fear that you have been misinformed as to the facts attending the capture on yesterday of 6 cavalrymen belonging to your command. I desire to say to you, general, that I had ordered the capture of your pickets more than one hour before the party bearing the flag caine insight, andt hat my party was over the river to effec.t the capture for iiearly the same length of time before the appearance of the truce party. The l)iCkets were taken in full view of many persons. Two of t he captured men were taken on the field, but one of them admitted her Page 152 152 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. that he rode toward the flag to claim its protection, but was not of the party. All who came over were respected. I examined three of the men, and not one of them claimed that he was of the flag party, and your note of this morning gives me the first inti- mation that any one of the prisoners was not on post or on the relief, or acting as courier to the pickets. From the tenor of your note, a misunderstanding must have occurred between the party in charge of the flag and my officer. He reported to me that be had written down at the time the language used by him, which was that he was instructed by you to say, that the flag of truce did not cover operations oft~ from the turnpike, and only on it to the party with the flag. This was read by me before I knew of the success of my party over the river. I believe, general, that the men were fairly taken. Unquestionably the pickets were, and I must hold them. If, upon examination, I find that one of these has a shadow of a claim to the protection of the flag, I will release him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN R. KENLY, Brigadier- General, Commanding at Williamsjport. I Inclosure No. 6.] HEADQUARTERS, Martinsburg, [Va.], November 1, 1862. Brigadier-General KENLY: GENERAL: I beg to acknowledge your letter of the 30th ultimo, in reference to the 0 men who were captured on the day previous. As I desired to obtain the fullest information as to all the facts attending this capture, I have delayed my answer to your letter until I could procure from Lieutenant Smith, who bore the flag of truce, a statement of the affair. This paper you will flud inclosed, and I hope that it will induce a reconsideration of the determination you express not to deliver up the captured men. Thd fact that you had ordered an attempt to capture the pickets be- fore the flag came in sight does not at all chatige the aspect of the affair. My understanding of the conditions of the truce was, that in the first place no one should be entitled to the protection of the fl~g but the party along with it; and, in the next, that all operations on the road by which this flag was transmitted (the Williamsport pike) should be suspended.. In other words, that a truce extended during the pas- sage of the flag on the Williamsport road. There can be no question but that the capture of these men would have been entirely unauthor- ized, and contrary to all the laws which govern flags of truce, if no noti- fication had been given by me as to what I regarded as the limits of the ground protected by the truce. Had no limits been assigned, all opera- tions on the line would have ceased. lint knowing the extent of this line, and that a party of my men were on a scout, I feared that by some accident there might seem to be on my part a violation of tliie sacred obligations which guard a flag of truce. To prevent this, I gave the notice that the truce extended only to the Williamsport pike; operations elsewhere not to be governed by it. The fact that the pickets were not literally on the pike is a matter of no consequence. Their post was on the Williamsport road, opposite the town, and if they were in the edge of the field, it was only for the purposes of better observation. The men all saw the flag of truce, and they supposed its presence was a protection Page 153 CHAP. ~Z~t1 OAPIUgE Ot t~ONVEDERA1~E PICICETS IN Mb. 15~ I send Captain Cowles to present this dispatch to you, and I trust that you will acquiesce in the justice of my demand for the release of the prisoners. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WADE HAMPTON, Brigadier- General. [Inclosure No. 7.] HEADQUARTERS, Williamsport, Va., November 1, 1862. Brig. Gen. WADE HAMPTON: GENERAL: I am too young a soldier to discuss with you the points embraced in your communication to me of to-day. Recognizing to their fullest extent all the sacred obligations which guard a flag of truce, and solicitous to learn what they are, I shall hold the prisoners captured, by my order on the 29th ultimo, until I am advised in the premises by the Commander-in-Chief of the Army of the United States, to whom I shall submit the facts. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN B. KENLY, Brigadier- General, Commanding Post. [Inclosure No. 8.] OCTOBER 31, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit the facts concerning the capture of 6 mcii under my charge on picket on the Williamsport pike near the Potomac: In pursuance to your order to Captain Cowles, I was detailed, with 6 of my men, to bear a flag of truce to Williamsport, escorting two ladies and one paroled prisoner. I was met by a captain and lieutenant of the Federal Army. I at once made the communication you ordered, viz, that the flag should interfere with operations on the pike only. This done, the baggage belonging to the ladies was put out on the bank of the river, and the paroled prisoner delivered to the captain. The cap. tam said he should send some of his men across the canal for the bag- gage, and should claim protection under the flag against the fire of our pickets. I assured him that his men should not be molested in the dis- charge of that duty. I recrossed the river, and just as I got to my out- side picket post, I was met by a party of Federal cavalry, who at once demanded the surrender of the pickets. At the same time they dashed upon my party and commenced examining the escort for arms. They halted two of the escort, who were in the rear, to whose relief I had to go before they would let them pass. The men they captured were picketing the pike, a part of them on post, the others going to relieve those who were on post. The 1)ost was some 60 yards from the pike, commanding a better view of the crossing of the river than could be had on the pike. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN L. SMITH, Lieutenant Company A, First North Carolina Cavalry. General HAMPTON Page 154 154 OPLPATIONs IN N. VA., W. VA,, MD., ANP PA. [t~iTAr.~XkI, OCTOBER 29, 1862.Skirmish near Petersburg, W. Va. T& ~POT~TS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kefley, U. S. Army. No. 2.Li~ut. Col. James Quirk, T~vcnty-third Illinois Infantry. No. 1. Reports of Brig. Gen. Benjamin P. Kelley, U. S. Army. CUMBERLAND, Mm, October 29, 186210.40 m in. I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Quirk, of the Twenty-third Illinois, to take the iRinggold Cavalry and two guns of Rourkes battery and pursue the party that took the cattle in Hardy County. lie left New Creek last night at dark. By a rapid maroh all night, he overtook the enemy at daylight this morning, attacked him, recaptured 170 head of cattle, and took 16 prisoners and 20 horses. B. F. KELLEY, Brig. Gen. IR. B. MARCY, Brigadier-General. Chief of Staff. CUMBERLAND, Mn., October 29, 186210.40 p. in. A cavalry force came into Hardy County night before last and stole a large lot of cattle, and started them for the rebel army. I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Quirk, of the Twenty-third Illinois, to take the cav- alry at New Creek and two guns of iLlourkes battery and pursue them. He moved last evening, and, by a rapid march all night, overtook the enemy this morning at (laylight, attacked him, captured 170 head of cattle, and took 16 prisoners and 20 horses. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. Major BAscoi~I, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 2. Report of Licut. Got. James Quirk, Twenty-third Illinois Infantry. HEADQUARTERS IRISH BRIGADE, Camp Jessie, New Greek, Va., October 30, 1862. CAPTAIN: One hour after the reception, and in pursuance of orders from brigade headquarters, JI left this camp at 5.30 p. in., in command of Company A, Lieutenant Hart; Company C, Captain Young; Com- pany D, Captain Work; hIm ggold Penn sylvania Cavalry, numbering 150 men, and one section of ~ battery, commanded by Capt. John Rourke. I arrived with my command at Greenland Gap (21 miles) at 11 p. in., where I was informed that the enemy (Stuarts cavalry), 400 strong, wit Page 155 CHAP. X~I.] OPEI~AJ2IONS IN AtYCtTSTA COtJNTY, FA~C. 155 about 200 head of cattle, crossed the mountain, near Greenland, at 2 oclock that afternoon. We then immediately advanced in pursuit through the gap, along the Hidgeville road, determined, if possible, to intercel)t them before they reached the crossing of that road, 5 miles from Petersburg. When we arrived within 3 miles of the crossing, I halted the detachment, and sent forward Lieutenant Hart and 10 of his men to ascertain whether the enemy had passed the crossing, and ascer- tamed, from a reliable source, that the enemy, consisting of from 300 to 500 of Stuarts cavalry (Lees brigade), were encamped within 2 miles, back of the crossing, on the other road. At daylight we advanced upon the enemy, and, when within 700 yards, I ordered Captain Rourke to the front with his guns, when a few well- directed shot and shell, fired by Captain Rourke in pecson, threw the enemy into confusion, and caused them to flee into the woods. I then ordered the cavalry to charge, which order was promptly and gallantly execute(l, ~)articularly by Company A, Lieutenant Hart. After 16 of the enemy were captured, being unable to find any more of them, I ordered the cattle to be collected and driven, with the greatest possible dispatch, toward our own camp, especially as I was apprehensive of an attack by Imboden, who was reported with a force of 700 men at Peters- burg, only 5 miles distant. I am glad to inform you we met with no loss, while that of the enemy is known to have been at least 3 men killed and 16 taken prisoners, and we captured 19 horses and 160 head of cattle. I have been informed by one of the prisoners that the enemys force consisted of 2 picked men from each company of Lees brigade of Stuarts cavalry. The success of the expedition is owing to the rapidity of our move- ments (we having advanced some 35 miles during the night), and to the cheerful and active co-operation of the officers and men comprising the detachment. Lieut. Johti A. Ayres, of my regiment, acting adjutant of the detach- ment, rendered me valuable and effi~ient aid. This report is respectfully submitted. I am, captain, very respectfully, yours, JAMES QUIRK, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding. Captain MELVIN, Assistant Adjutant- General. XOVEMDE1~ 5~l4,1862.*~~.Operations in Augusta, Bath, and Highland Counties, Va., and Pendleton and Pocahontas Counties, W. Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Robert H. Milroy, U. k. Army. HuTT ONSVILLE~ VA., November 14, 1862. Just arrived here on my return from Monterey, Huntersvilhe, Mc- Dowell, and Franklin. Have swept the counties of Highland, Poca- hontas, Pendleton, and parts of Augusta and Bath. Captured 45 pris- oners, including 3 captains and 1 lieutenant; also 75 head of cattle dfl(l 25 horses. * See, November 814, 1862, Imbodens expedition from Hardy County into Tucker County, \\T Va., pp. 156160 Page 156 156 OPEPATIONS IN N. VA, XV. VA., MD., XNP PA. VThAP. XXXI. Colonel Latham, with 500 men, still after Jmbodeii. Balance of troops on expedition will be here this evening. The One hundred and twenty- third Ohio here. The Second and Tenth Yirginia and One hundred and sixteenth Ohio and batteries at Beverly. All this country to the Shen- andoah Mountains clear of rebels and guerrillas. One regiment, three companies of Mountain iRangers, and one battery will be sufficient to hold this country, from Monterey to Sutton. I can take nine regiments and two batteries to Cumberland. Shall I do so ~? Second Lieut. Mark Poore is acting ordnance officer for my division. Clear, pleasant day here. B. II. MJLTtOY, Brigadier- General. Major-General Cox. NOVEMBER 814, 1862.Imbodens expedition from Hardy County into Tucker County, W. Va., and capture of Saint George. REPORTS. No. 1.Col. J. D. Iruboden, First Virginia Partisan Rangers, with congratulatory let- ter from General Lee. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army, of the capture of Saint George, W. Va. No. 1. Report of Gol. J. D. Imboden, First Virginia Partisan Rangers, with congratulatory letter from General Lee. CM~iP WASHINGTON, On Shenandoah Mountain, November 18, 1862 GENERAL: Having received some overcoats and blankets for my men on the night of the 6th instant, I set out from my camp on South Fork, in Hardy County, at 2 p. m. on the 7th, for Cheat River Bridge, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. It was snowing hard at the time. I reached the eastern base of the Alleghany, 6 miles north of the mouth of Seneca, at midnight and halted until daybreak. I then began the ascent of the mountain with 310 well-mounted men, expecting to reach Saint George, 38 miles distant, early in the night of the 8th. Our only road was an obscure and rarely used cattle-path, leading directly across the main Alleghany and along the southern border of the famous wilder- ness, known as Canaan, and from Red Creek and the Blackwater to the Dry Fork of Cheat. We were compelled to walk and lead our horses entirely across the mountain, the snow-storm continuing iii unabated violence all day. So formidable were our difficulties, that night over- took us on the Dry Fork, only about 18 or 20 umiles from our starting- place in the morning. I was compelled to halt aimd await the rising of the moon. Precisely at midnight we remounted our horses, and at the moment of starting met a gentleman of high respectability, a resident of Tucker, who gave me the startling intelligence, afterward fully veri- fled, that a regiment of Yankee infantry, 600 strong, had that day passed up Dry Fork toward Seneca, and were then encamped 8 or 10 miLes in my rear, they having gone up Dry Fork as I came down Red Creek, and that Milroy had gone with 4,000 men from Beverly toward Monterey. I hesitated about going forward, knowing that my escape from the cou Page 157 CHAP. XXXI.] IMBODENS CAPTURE OF SAiNT GEORGE, W. VA. 157 try would be extremely difficult, perhaps impossible, as soon as it was known to the enemy that I was there; but my horses being too much exhausted to return without being fed, I resolved to press on to Saint George, surprise and capture Captain Hall and his company stationed there, procure supplies, and then determine my future course. The snow and sleet storm still raged furiously and impeded our progress greatly, but I succeeded in reaching Saint George just after day-break on the 9th, dismounted nearly all my men, surrounded the town, and after the exchange of a few shots, with no damage to either side, Capt. William Hall, commanding Company F, Sixth [West] Virginia Regi- ment, U. S. Army, surrendered unconditionally. He had but 31 effective men, armed with the best Enfield rifles. He was quartered in the court- house, a new brick building, with the doors and windows strongly barri- caded with logs, and might have given us a good deal of trouble. Not being able to bring the prisoners away, I paroled them all, and have sent the certificate direct to the adjutant-general. The arms and equip- ments I brought away safely, and some of my men being badly off for over- coats and blankets, and the weather terribly severe, I took those the prisoners had and supplied my men, and thus far retaliated for the burn- ing done by the enemy at Cacapon Bridge in October. My horses now began to show great distress, and my captains, with a single exception, opposed going anyfarther. I, moreover, ascertained be- yond a doubt that the Union people above Saint George had dispatched two messengers to Beverly, where Milroy had left about 2.000 men. I had but two routes to escape by. One was to go forward to Rowlesburg, destroy the railroad bridge, and cross over into Pennsylvania, and attempt to get back to Virginia by a road crossing between New Creek and Cum- beriand, and take the chances of escaping Kelleys large cavalry force in Hampshire and Hardy. I believed this to be utterly impracticable in the broken-down condition of our horses, and on account of the snow, which enabled the enemy to track us. The other route was to return to the Dry Fork and fall in the rear of Milroy, and follow him until I reached a point where I could pass him in the night. 1 believed this to be the only psssible means of saving my little command, especially as I knew that Kelley would be on the qui vive for me at every pass in his vicinity, as subsequently turned out to be the fact. Another cause of hesitancy about advancing was the fact that the snow-storm had delayed my arrival at Saint George twelve hours beyond what I expected, and would have made me arrive at Rowlesburg late in the evening, where I could do nothii~g in the darkness of the night, and by morning re-enforce- ments would be there from New Creek or Clarksburg, to drive me back up Cheat River, to be cut off by the troops from Beverly. I, therefore, at 10 a. in., begau to retrace my steps, and by 9 oclock at night I crossed Dry Fork, below the mouth of Gladt~ Creek, and halted until midnight, when I resumed the march along a path up Glade Creek, which I had cut through the wilderness in my expedition of last August. At 4 p. m. I reacJied a place 10 miles east of Beverly, and there spent the night of the 10th. This was the first nights rest for men or horses. At this place a man came into camp who had been in Beverly that day, through whom I learned that there was high excitement at Beverly, and that my force was reputed to be large, and to consist of infantry and cav- alry. I also learned that Milroys baggage-train was probably at Camp Bartow, on GreenbrierRiver, and resolved to attack it and escape through Pocahontas and Bath by flanking him. With this view, I set out through the unbroken forest on the morning of the 11th, and traveled all day, by the aid of a mountain guide of great skill and a compass, on the cours Page 158 158 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXi. of south 350 east, reaching a settlement about 5 p. in., at a place called the Upper Sinks, on the head-waters of Greenbrier, and 11 miles distant from Camp Bartow. On the morning of the 12th, 6 of my horses were unable to proceed farther, and were left with a careful man to bring them away in eight or ten days, the riders agreeing to follow on foot. The day was dark and rainy when I set out for Camp Bartow, relying on guide and compass to get through the wilderness. Before noon my guide was bewildered, and we were lost in one of the darkest and most impenetrable pine forests of the Alleghany. After accomplishing but 4 miles, I was compelled to retrace my steps to our old camp at the Sinks. On the morning of the 13th, the sun shone out bright and cloudless, bnt I knew it was then too late to go to Camp Bartow, so I set out to cross the Alleghany by a path that strikes the head of the North Fork about the Pendleton and Highland line. At 3 p. Th. I emerged from the wilderness, sending 2 men in advance to gain intelligence of the enemy. From a citizen and a prisoner, a few hours before discharged by Milroy at Hightown, in Highland, I ascertained that he had that morning fallen back toward Camp Bartow in great haste, to intercept me, sending his cavalry down toward Huntersville to head me off if I should have passed, and that Colonel Latham, with 500 infantry and two field guns and about 30 cavalry, was at Circleville, 6 miles below, on the lookout for me in that direction, and that his scouts had just gone down the road from Crab Bottom. I also learned that about 1,300 men had moved a few hours before from the forks of waters down the South Brancli toward Franklin. All these statements were afterward found to be true. I halted an hour at the first house, and gave my weary horses the first grain they had tasted since the 9th, and about sunset struck into a path leading across a high mountain in rear of Latham, and about 10 p. m. I came upon a camp of the 1,300 men who had gone down South Branch. The fires were still burning, but the men had left a few hours before. I followed them toward Franklin until I reached a gap, which enabled me to cross over to the South Fork, where I halted at 3 oclock in the morning, and then learned the facts iii regard to the fight my infantry under Lieutenant-Colonel [R. L.] I)oyle had had with Kelleys forces on the morning of the 9th, of which he has sent you a report. On the 14th I reached Augusta Springs, through North River Gap. I know that I have trespassed greatly on your time, aiid feel conscious that in results this expedition is comparatively insigiiificant; but the original object of the undertaking was so important that a failure to ac- complish it, when seemingly within my reach, requires,~to justify it, a full statement of all the facts. These I have given you, as briefly as possible. Had I been informed of Milroys movements before I left Hardy, I should never have crossed, the Alleghany. As it was, I think I should have succeeded but for the snow-storm, which lasted three days, and caused much suffering to men and horses. Our escape, nuder all the circumstances, without the loss of a man, is felt and acknowledged by all to be truly providential. Except the identical route we came there is no other pass in which I would not have encountered largely superior forces, and almost certainly have lost all my horses, even if my men had escaped on foot. I am now informed that every avenue of escape from Circleville to INew Creek was strongly guarded by the joint forces of Milroy and Kelley, and that the former fell back from Highland to insure our capture and protect his train. If you are familiar with that country you will not be surprised to learn that it will be several weeks before my horses regain their strength and vigor Page 159 CHAP. XXXI.] IMBODEN S CAPTURE OF SAINT GEORGE, W. VA. 159 I have no doubt now that Milroys original purpose was to move secretly and rapidly to this point, seize Shenandoah Mountain, and, if he ibund the way open, make a dash upon Staunton and destroy the railroad and stores at that post. For ten days before he left Beverly, he had stopped all communication across Cheat Mountain in this direc- tion. His movements as far as Highland were very rapid when he heard of our being in his rear. He then fell back precipitately. He arrested everybody as he came east, but discharged many citizens the day he fell l)ack. He surprised and captured Captain [XV. II.] Harness and S of his cavalry on Jacksons River. These, together with 12 or 15 citizens, are all the prisoners he took away. He burned some houses in High- land and plundered the people of all the horses and cattle he could find. In a day or two I will give you further intelligence in regard to him. Apologizing again for the great length of this report and letter, I am, general, most sincerely and respectfully, your obedient servant, J. I). IMBODEN, Colonel, Commanding First Virginia Partisan Rangers. Lient. Gen. THOMAS J. JACKSON. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, November 26, 1862. Lieutenant-General THOMAS J. JACKSON, Commanding, dye.: GENERAL: I have received and read with much interest the report of Cob J. D. Imuboden of his operations during the late expedition to Cheat River Bridge. i appreciate the extraordinary difficulties encount- Cre(l by Colonel Imboden and commend the energy and skill displayed l)y him in the management of his command. Although the principal object in view could not be accomplished, the undertaking was attended with valuable results. You will l)lease communicate what I have sai(l to Colonel Imboden, and inform him that it is my (lesire that he will iiot lose sight of this important enterprise, and that I hope on some future occasion his efforts will meet with the success they deserve. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. E. LEE, ?leneral. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. Benjamin P. Kelley, U. S. Army, of the capture of Saint George, W. Va. NOVEMBER , 1862. MAJOR: I have the honor to report to the general commanding the district, that, on the 9th instant, the rebel Colonel Imboden, with a force of about 300 infantry, made his appearance at Saint George, Tucker County., Va, garrisoned by a small detachment of my troops, con sist- ing of Capt. William Hall, Company F, Sixth Virginia Infantry, and 33 enlisted men. The enemy appeared about 7 oclock in the morning; sent in a flag of truce to Captain Hall, demanding an unconditional surrender of his cemmand~ Captain Hall requested ten minutes for consideration, an Page 160 160 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL was allowed five. Finding every avenue for retreating in the posses- sion of the enemys pickets, and snrrounded by a much superior force he deemed it advisable to comply with Colonel Imbodens summons, and accordingly surrendered, as follows: Of the whole number composing the detachment, Captain Hall and 28 of his men took a parole not to take up arms until regularly exchanged. Jmboden also took possession of all the arms, oil-cloth blankets, over- coats, cooking utensils, 1 horse and bridle, and about 530 rations. Captain Hall represents the force of Colonel Imboden as being well armed and clothed. The arms in their possession were principally Sharps breech-loading i-ifies. Inclosed please find a list of the names of those taken prisoner and paroled.* Three of the men were overlooked and did not sign the parole. Those paroled are ordered to report at Camp Chase, Ohio. Respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. Maj. G. M. BAscoM, Asst. A djt. 0cm, Charleston, Va. NOVEMBER 9, 1862.Reconnaissance from Bolivar Heights to Rippon, W. Va. Reports of Brig. Gem Joint W. Geary, U. ~. Army. iIIPPON, S~x MILES ruo~i BERRYViLLE, VA., November 9, 18621.15 p. in. GENERAL: My researches show that both the Generals lull and Geit- eral Jackson have crossed the mountains at Front Royal, leaving on this side five regiments of cavalry and eight or ten pieces of artillery, l)art of which I have had to cofltCll(l with to-day. Considerable infantry is also said to be beyond Berry rule. Having no cavalry, and being coin- l)elled to move with the greatest caution, I conclude that my advance thus far accomplishes for the present the object of the reconnaissance, and I am about to return. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. W. GEARY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Major-General SLOCUM, Commanding Twelfth Army Corps. HDQRS. SECOND l)lVIsIoN, TWELFTH ARMY CORPS, Bolivar Heights, Va., November 10, 1862. COLONEL: In accordance with the directions of the general command- ing, of the evening of November 8, for me to make a reconnaissance with the available force of my division, I started on the following morn- ing with 2,500 infantry from the three brigades, and two sections each from Knaps, Hamptons, and McGilverys batteries. At daylight we reached Halitown, from which vicinity we drove about 50 cavalry pick- ets, the first encountered. Moving actively forward, we approached a position but recently occupied by 50 or 60 others in bivouac, about mid- Nominal list, omitte(l, shows 1 officer and 28 enlisted men captured Page 161 ChAP. XXXI.] RECONNAISSANCE TO RIPPON, VA. 161 way between Halitown and Charlestown, from which place we routed the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry. A small force of infantry was in prox- imity to their rear, south of the town. They retired to each of the nu- merous successive belts of woods, separated by fields, from which they were compelled by our artillery and infantry to respectively fall back. Our want of cavalry was here greatly demonstrated, as, with a force of mounted men, we could have captured nearly the entire party. We pushed them under fire rapidly until they reached their place of encamp- ment, near Rippon, 5 miles north of Berryville, at a strategic point of the road, where it is crossed by that leading from Bunker Hill. The camps gave evidence that four or five regiments of cavalry and several pieces of artillery had been quartered there, corroborative of my previ- ous information, which announced that Chews and a portion of another battery had been there several days, and still occupied their positicn. We vigorously attacked the encaml)ment, pouring in a heavy fire from several points, compelling them to leave precipitately toward Berry- ville, leaving their fires burning, bread baking, several unsaddled horses, and a number of beef cattle. With a cavalry force 1 could have pur- sued them to Berryville, but an infantry pursuit would have effected nothing, and, the object of the reconnaissance having been accomplished, and finding no inducement to prolong the time originally ordered, the column returned. My investigations proved conclusively tbat there are not more than 3,000 or 4,000 men in the valley this side of Front Royal. The two Gen- erals Hill have left the valley and gone southward, by way of Front Royal. Jackson left Bunker Hill about October 30 or 31, proceeding to Berryville; thence, on the following (lay, to the vicinity of Millwood and White Post, and, on the 3d or 4th, to Front Royal. I am satisfied that the force remaining consists of about five regiments of cavalry, with about eight pieces of artillery, and the infantry is covered by about three or four regiments. The recent raid through Snickers Gap to Snickersville was made by portions of the troops about Berryville, and those which. were routed - near Rippon yesterday. Upon this expedition I was accompanied by Colonel Huger, of the First, and Brigadier-General Jackson, of the Second Brigade, to whom I am indebted for much valuable assiStance. The officers and men exhibited, with but few exceptions, good con- duct, gallantry, and an alacrity to engage the enemy. The small cavalry party, 12 in number, is deserving of much praise for the performance of the duties to which it was assigned. We returned the same evening, after a round march of 28 miles, ac- complished with much promptness. I observed that nearly all the corn within a large circuit had been consumed by the rebels, and they are still engaged in hauling wheat and flour up the valley toward Staunton. The country wears a deplor- able aspect, being devastated almost to the last degree. The inhabitants are impoverished, and most of them have not the resources to carry them through the winter, in their present condition. The hoi-ses, cattle, and other property captured have been duly turned over to the division quartermaster and commissary. The prisoners have been delivered to the provost-marshal at Harpers Ferry. Their names are contained in the appendix. No casualties occurred on our side, except 1 man of the One hundred and forty-ninth New York Yoluntee~s accidentally shot through th~ arm. 11 R RVOL ~IX~ PT ~ Page 162 162 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. Hoping the results of the reconnaissance thus submitted may be sanc- tioned with your approbation, I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. W. GEAIRY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lieut. Col. H. C. RODGERS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Twelfth Army Corps. NOVEMBER 9, 1862.Skirmish at Fredericksburg, Va. REPORTS. No. 1. Capt. Ulric Dahigren, U. S. Army, Aide-de.Cainp. No. 2. Proceedings of Confederate Court of Inquiry. No. 1. Report of Capt. Ulric Dahlgren, U. S. Army, Aide-de. Camp. HDQRS. ELEVENTH CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Gainesville, Va., November 10, 1862. GENERAL: Agreeably to your orders, I started from Gainesville, on the morning of the 8th instant, to Fredericksbuig, to ascertain the force of the enemy at that place, and then to examine the Aqnia Creek and Fredericksburg Railroad on the return. I left Gainesville with 60 men of the First Indiana, General Sigels body-guard, and went to Bristoc Station to obtain an additional force of 100 men from the Sixth Ohio Cavalry; but, finding they had moved to Catletts Station I went to that point, where we found them. After a slight delay in preparing, we moved and traveled all night, stopping once an hour or so, to feed and water the horses. We arrived at Fredericksburg about 7.30 a. m. Although our object was to be there before (layliglit, it was impossible to do so, the distance being too great, and the i-oads and the weather unfavorable. At Fredericksburg I found the river too high to ford at the regular fording places, and not wishing to expose my men by cross- ing them in small detachments on a ferry-boat, I sent R. P. Brown, your scout, to find some place where we could cross, which he soon discov- ered above the bridge, among the rocks, to all appearances impassable, but at which place we managed to cross one man at a time. My inten- tion was to send the First Indiana Cavalry through the town, while the Sixth Ohio would guard the crossing-place and secure our retreat. After crossing with the Indiana cavalry, under Captain Sharra, I could plainly see the rebels gathering together to meet us, and not wishing to give them time to collect, started for them before the Sixth Ohio were over, leaving directions for them, and supposing that they would be over by the time I would fall back, if necessary. We found the city full of soldiers, who were almost entirely surprised, and made many prisoners, whom we sent to the ford, where I supposed the Sixth Ohio to be. It being nearly a mile from Falmouth through Fredericksburg, and not wishing to run my horses so far, I sent Lieutenant Carr with a detach- ment ahead, to dash through the town and see where the enemy were concentrated. Lieutenant Carr gallantly drove several detachments before him until they reached the main body. Having now found wher Page 163 CHAP. XXXII SKIRMISH AT FREDERICKSBURG, VA. 163 the enemy were posted, I ordered Captain Sharra to drive them away, which he did in the most effectual and gallant manner, charging a much larger force, and driving them whenever they stood. The fighting was of the most desperate nature, our men using their sabers, and the enemy, in several instances, clubbing our men with their carbines. While the fight was going on, it was reported to me that the enemy had possession of the ford, the Sixth Ohio not having crossed to hold it. On hearing this, I ordered our men to fall back, and, after a few moments consulta- tion with Captain Sharra, decided to force a passage; but upon reach. ing the ford f charge. , ound they had also left, not wishing to stand another After seeing the command all over and on the road home I started with 12 men for Aquia Creek, to examine the railroad to that point, which we found in tolerable condition, excepting the bridges over the Potomac and Accokeek Creeks, which we burned. At Accokeek Creek we captured the enemys picket, of 4 men, our surprise having been so effectually accomplished that not one of the pickets was aware of our entering Fredericksburg. The enemys loss was considerable, but it is impossible to state the exact number. I know of 3 being killed, sev- eral wounded, and 39 prisoners. Our loss, 1 killed and 4 missing. We also captured two wagon loads of gray cloth, about to be sent south. The enemys forces coiisisted of five companies of the Fifteenth Vir- ginia [Battalion] and three companies of the Ninth Virginia. I have the honor to be, with great respect, general, your most obedient servant, ULIRIC DAIILGREN, Maj. Gen. FRANZ SIGEL, Captain and Aide-de-Gamjp. Commanding Eleventh Army Gorps. [Indorsement.l flDQRS. DEFENSES WASHINGTON SOUTH OF THE POTo~c, Arlington, Va., November 13, 1862. Respectfully forwarded. A very gallant affair. The burning of the bridges was very unnecessary. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Major- General, Commanding. No. 2. Proceedings of Confederate Court of Inquir~f. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. No. 9. DEPT. o~ NORTHERN VIRGINIA, January 24, 1863. I. Proceedings of a court of inquiry, convened in the town of Fred- ericksburg, at the clerks office, on the morning of Monday, 12th of January, 1863, by virtue of the following Special Order: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, No. 4. $ January 4, 1863. * * * * * * VIII. A court of inquiry, to consist of Col. Williams C. Wickham, Fourth Virginia cavalry; Major XVallcr, Ninth Virginia Cavalry, and Capt. G. ~. Cuthbert, Secon Page 164 164 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAr. XXXL South Carolina Volunteers, will assemble in Fredericksburg, or its vicinity, on Tues- day, the 6th of January, 1863, or as soon thereafter as practicable, to examine into, and report, and express an opinion upon circumstances connected with unresisted Yankee raid of 9th November, 1862, into Fredericksburg, Va. By command of General Lee: W. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant-General. II. The court met pursuant to the above order, and, after mature in- vestigation and deliberation, is of the opinion that there was great neg- ligence on the part of the pickets in allowing a surprise; that there was an absolute want of discipline, if not want of courage, evinced upon the part of the men of the then Fifteenth Battalion; that the officers seemed to have done tlieir duty in trying to get the men to stand, but utterly failed. Captain Simpsons command acted very well in attacking the rear guard of the Yankees, and driving them back, and the failure on his part to attack the main body when he had them at the advantage of being in their rear, and of their being scattered in the pursuit of the flying men of the Fifteenth Battalion, can only be accounted for by the fact that that portion of the command had only arrived in town the night before, and was ignorant of the localities. Some excuse for the conduct of Colonel Critchers command can be found in the fact that it had nearly, during the whole period of its organization, been engaged in provost duty in Richmond, the most demoraliziiig of all cavalry duty; that its equipment was very indifferent, and that, when relieved of pro- vost duty, the amount of labor put upon it was such as effectually to prevent the commander from putting it in a state of discipline. The behavior of these troops upon this occasion grew, doubtless, out of a panic, which, under such circumstances, might, and in all probability would, affect any raw and undisciplined troops. Respectfully submitted. WILLIAMS C. WICKIIAM, Colonel Fourth Virginia Cavalry. THOMAS WALLER, Major Ninth Virginia Cavalry. G. B. CUTIIBERT, Captain Company I, Second South Carolina Volunteers. III. The foregoing proceedings and findings of the court of inquiry are approved, and the opinion confirmed. iNo further action in the case being deemed necessary, the court is dissolved. By command of General R. E. Lee: W. II. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General. NOVEMBER 9, 1862.Skirmish on the South Fork of the Potomac, W. Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army. MOOREFIELD, HARDY COUNTY, VA., November 10, Via New Creek, November 11, 1862. ~I left New Creek on Saturday morning, the 8th instant, and, after a continuous march of twenty-four hours, a distance of about 60 miles, reached Imbodens camp,* on the South Fork, 18 miles south of this J~ut see Imiodeus report, p. UAi Page 165 CHAP. XXXI.) EXPEDITION INTO GRtENllI~IE1~ COtYNTh~. 165 place. at 6.30 oclock yesterday morning. We attacked him at once, and routed him completely, killing and wounding many of the enemy, cap- turing his camp, 50 prisoners, a quantity of arms, 350 fat hogs, a large number of horses, cattle, wagons, & c. The infantry were routed and t~ntirely dispersed, fleeing to the mountains. Their cavalry were, unfor- tunately, far away, on an expedition, or our success would have been complete. We burned their camp and returned to this place this evening. I have with me a detachment of the First New York Cavalry; the iRinggold Battalion, under the command of Captain Keys; the Wash- ington Cavalry, commanded by Captain Greenfield; Rourkes battery, and three companies of the Twenty-third Illinois Infantry, under com- mand of Major Moore. The infantry companies are carried in wagons. My troops cannot be surpassed for patient endurance on the march, or for gallant bearing when iu action. Our attack was so unexpected and impetuous that our loss is trifling, 3 or 4 men slightly, and 1 severely, wounded; none killed. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. Maj. G. M. BAscoM, Assistant Adjutant-General. NOVEMBER 911, 1862.Expedition into Greenbrier Coui~ty, W. Va. Report of Capt. G W. Gilmore. CAMP SUMMERVILLE, VA., November 12, 1862. Sin: I herewith submit a report of my expedition into Greeubrier County: On the 9th instant, proceeding agreeably to order, I bivouacked 3 miles beyond Gauley River. On the 10th, moving on, I marched all day without interruption, but learned that General Jenkins, with 2,500 men, in addition to Colonel IDnuns force, occupied the country before me, stationed as follows: Colonel Dunns command between Lewisburg and Frankfort; the Four- teenth Regiment Virginia Cavalry at Williamsburg; one regiment of cavalry at Meadow Bluff (pasturing horses), with a battalion of 400 cavalry on the Wilderness road as a guard; a small force at White Sulphur, and General Jenkins, with the remainder of his command, on Muddy Creek, 8 miles from Lewisburg. I, however, pushed forward until within 3 miles of Williamsburg, where I came upon a wagon train be- longing to General Jenkins command. They were encamped for the night, intending to load with wheat the following day. I surrounded and captured the whole, consisting of prisoners and property, as fol- lows: 9 prisoners, named J. L. Evans, captain and acting assistant com- missary; William L. Evans, wagon-master; 2 wagoners (enlisted men); 3 wagoners (citizens); 2 negro wagoners, and 2 citizens who were pressed and interested with the grain. The property taken, as follows: 7 wag- ons, 23 horses, 4 mules, and 24 sets of harness. After setting fire to and destroying the wagons and the grain, with the building it was stored in, I set out on my return, meeting Captain Smith, with his command, on Cherry River, 10 miles from Gauley River Ford. I arrived in this camp, with the above prisoners and property, at Page 166 166 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP.XXXL p. m. on the 11th instant. I found the roads very bad, impassable for wagons; grain very scarce; could procure but two feeds for my horses while gone. The grain destroyed was about 250 bnshels of wheat. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant G. W. GILMOILIE, Brig. Gen. GEORGE CROOK, Captain, Commanding Expedition. Commanding Kanawha Division. NOVEMBER 1012, l862.Operations along the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Daniel B. Sickles, U. S. Army. HDQRS. SICKLES DIVISION, THIRD ARMY CORPS, Camp at Jlilianassas Junction, November 12, 1802. COLONEL: I have the honor to report the operations of my command since my last communication, dated the 10th instant. The line of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad is divided into four principal commands, as follows: First, from Burkes Station to Bull Run Bridge, including the post at Centreville and a provost guard at Fairfax Court-House, Brigadier-General Carr commanding. His force comprises the First Massachusetts, Second New Hampshire, and Twenty- sixth Pennsylvania. Second, from Bull Run Bridge to Man assas, Third Brigade, General Patterson commanding. His force includes two bat- teries occupying redoubts Kos. 1 and 2 at Manassas. Third f Ma- rom nassas to Kettle Run, Second Brigade, Col. George B. Hall commanding, to whom Smiths battery (Lieutenant Nairn commanding) reports. Of Colonel Halls command, the First and Fifth Excelsior are at Bristoe, with a battery and supply details for the posts and patrols to Kettle Run. The Second and Fourth Excelsior and One hundred and twen- tieth New York form a reserve at Manassas. Fourth, from Kettle Run to Warrenton Junction, Colonel Blaisdell commanding, Provisional Brigade, Eleventh and Sixteenth Massachusetts and Third Excelsior, with Clarks battery. Posts are established at all stations, bridges, causeways, culverts, and high embankmeuts along the line and the in- tervals between the posts are vigilantly patroled day and night. Major Remingtons squadron (127), of Scotts cavalry, watches the fords of the Occoquan and patrols the roads from the Accotink to Bull Run. Major Remington reports direct to Brigadier-General Carr, at Fairfax. Major Stedmans squadron (100), of the Sixth Ohio Cavalry, patrols the princi- pal roads from Bull Run to Cedar Run Bridge, watching the fords of Cedar Run. He has a post at Brentsville, and his camp is between Broad Run and Kettle Run. Of this squadron, 25 men, with a lieutenant, report to Colonel Blaisdell, at Warrenton Junction, for vedette and patrol duty oii his line. The cavalry patrols are mainly on the left of the railroad, toward the Occoquan and the Rappahannock. Colonel Marston, Second New Hampshire, commanding at Centreville, reports that, of the supply trains (500 wagons) from Alexandria, for which 1 was directed to furnish an escort, one train passed through Centreville at noon on the 8th instant, and two trains, of about the same number each, passed his post at sun- rise on the 10th instant. Colonel Marston furnished escorts for these several trains, and they were safely conducted beyond Gainesville, when the escort was relieved Page 167 CIIA?. XXXII OPERAPIONS ON ORANGt~ ANI) ALtXANDIUA t~. R. 167 Captain Carr, commanding the escort, heard, from sources, perhaps, not entitled to much notice, that Jackson was expected to come in our rear and occupy the old battle-field of Bull iRun. The rumor comes from citizens and contrabands in that vicinity. In this relation I may mention a circumstance informally communi- cated to me by Colonel Marston He was informed by a lady, residing near Centreville, that, about two weeks ago, two regiments of rebel cavalry passed to the right of Centrevile and crossed Bull IRan, going in the direction of Manassas and Gainesville. She saw these troops, and knew their force and character from the report of ht,r son, who belonged to one of the regiments. I respectfully request that an engineer officer be sent here for a day or two, that I may have the aid of his professional judgment in desig- nating such of the works in the vicinity as may be most available for the defense of the place. Some changes will be required in those occu- pied, and the others it may be thought expedient to destroy. Brigadier-General Ingalls, chief quartermaster, Army of the Poto- mac, has relieved Captain Rusling, assistant quartermaster, from duty as depot quartermaster at Manassas, and ordered him to resume his duties as division quartermaster. Colonel Blaisdell, commanding post at Warrenton Junction, reports that, no guard having been provided for the railroad toward Warren- ton, he has posted guards at four bridges and three other points in that direction, the last point being at a cross-road, within 1 mile of Warren- ton. The commanding officer of these posts reports the railroad in bad condition between Warrenton Junction and Warrenton, many of the ties being much injured. Colonel Blaisdell also reports a number of wagon trains at Warrenton Junction, for forage and quartermasters stores for the respective divisions of the army advancing toward the IRappahan- nock, but that no depot quartermaster is there, nor any one in authority to represent the quartermasters department, and, consequently, the trains lie there idle, and are not supplied. The commissary department is established, and the duties performed. I respectfully suggest that the interests of the service require that a depot qnartermaster should be immediately sent to Warrenton Junction, to attend to the requisi- tions for troops now moving in that direction. I have great pleasure in bringing to the notice of the general com- manding the energetic and efficient services of Col. William Blaisdell, Eleventh Massachusetts, and of Colonel Lloyd, Sixth Ohio Cavalry. In the discharge of their arduous duties these officers, with their respect- ive commands, have displayed great zeal and activity. I take leave to allude again to the necessity for some additional regi- ments for the Third, or New Jersey, Brigade. There are now only 1,900 men for duty out of six regiments in that brigade. General Stockton, the adjutant-general of New Jersey, informs me that there is no proba- bility that the State will fill up those regiments. There are several un- assigned new regiments from New Jersey neai Washington. Of these, the Fourteenth, Colonel Truex commanding, is at Frederick, or at Mo- nocacy Bridge. This is said to be an excellent regiment, with good officers. Also, the Thirtieth, Colonel Donaldson, and the Thirty-first, Colonel Berthoud; besides the Eleventh, Colonel McAllister. All near Washington or Alexandria. I respectfully suggest that some of these regiments be assigned to the INew Jersey Brigade (Third), of this divis- ion, and that the skeleton regiments, now here, be detached for consoli- dation and reorganization. There is a large quantity of seasoned fuel, say 600 or 700 cords, piled up within my lines. Some of it is near the railroad, and a large qua Page 168 168 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. tCIAl-. Xi~C~U. tity was cut last year for our service, nuder the superintendence of the Sanitary Commission. Some disposition should be made of it, I respect- fully suggest, so that it may not be wasted. There are also about 50() log-houses, used by the enemy when in winter quarters here. I am called upon to furnish teams and wagons to haul wood for the use of the railroad at a~nd near Warrenton Junction. I have furnished them tem- porarily, as it was reported that the need was urgent. Shall I continue to do so? I regret to report that the railroad management on this road exhibits the lack of executive capacity, or the presence of incompetent agents. Of this the reports of Captain Ruslino- assistant quartermaster, here. with transmitted, furnish additional evidence. Having been informed yesterday that Major-General McClellan would proceed from Warrenton to Washington by railroad, I directed the troops of the division to be paraded at their respective posts, and to receive our late commander with the honors appropriate to his rank. Major- General Hooker arrived at Manassas about 1 p. in., on his way to War. renton. Soon after the departure of General McClellans train for Washington, General Hooker proceeded to his destination, and was re- ceived at this camp, at Bristoe, and Warrenton Junction with similar honors. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your niost obedient servant, 1). E. SICKLES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lient. Col. CHAUNCEY MUKEEVER, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Defenses of Washington. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING TO OPERATIONS IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, AND PENNSYLVANIA, FROM SEPTEMBER 3 TO NOVEMBER 14, 1862. UNIO~ CORI~ESPONDENcE, ETC. NEW YORK, September 2, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, (Received 4.55 i~. in.) Secretary of War: Our National War Committee has just passed a resolution earnestly recommending the Department to recall the militia regiments from this city which have recently returned from Washington. XVe believe they will go at a moments notice. This committee will advance any extraor- dinary expenses necessary. Please answer. GEO. D. OPDYKE, Chairman. DAVID DUDLEY FIELD. CHAS. H. MARSHALL. A. C. RICHARDS. CHAS. GOULD. PETER COOPER. P. W. WETMORE. ISAAC DAYTON. WILLIAM ORTON. HENRY (1. STEBBINS. JNO. A. STEPHENS Page 169 CuAr. XXXI.1 COI~kt~SPONDENCE, ETC.tJNION. 169 WASHINGTON, D. C., S~ptember 2, 1862. Hon. D. D. FIELD and others, New York: The New York militia regiments were requested to remain when the danger was more imminent than at present, but declined to do so. Under these circumstances they will not be recalled. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. [SEPTEMBER 224, 1862.For correspondence between Halleck and Dix, in reference to re-enforcements from the Peninsula for Army of the Potomac, see Series I, Vol. XVIII.] WASHINGTON, D. C., September 3, 1862. Ordered, that the General-in-Chief, Major-General Halleck, immedi- ately commence, and proceed with all possible dispatch, to organize an army for active operations, from all the material within and coming within his control, independent of the forces he may deem necessary for the defense of Washington, when such active army shall take the field.* By order of the President: EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. [Indorsement.] Copy delivered to Major-General Halleck, Septeinber3, 1862, at lop. ni. E. D. TOWNSEND, - Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, September 3, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding, & c: There is every probability that the enemy, baffled in his intended cap- ture of Washington, will cross the Potomac, and make a raid into Mary- land or Pennsylvani-~. A movable army niust be immediately organ- ized to meet him again in the field. You will, therefore, report the ap-. proximate force of each corps of the three armies now in the vicinity of Washington, which can be prepared in the next two (lays to take the field, and have them supplied and ready for that service. H. XV. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. AQUIA, VA., September 3, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Have just ordered six regiments of infantry to embark, and hope to get off everything to-day but one regiment of infantry (and one of cav- alry as rear guard), to enable us to get the teams. 1~ailroad transpor- tation if the transports arrive, as I suppose. [Sic.] A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. * The original is iii President Lincolns handwriting Page 170 170 OPERATIONS IN N. VA, W. VA., MD., AND PA. tC1AP. XXXt AQuIA, VA., September 3, 186210.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Have you anything new? Shall I make any different arrangements from those indicated in my telegram? I have thought it best to remain here until the last. Do you wish it otherwise? All quiet in our front. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 3, 1862. Major-General BURNSIDE, Aquia Greek, Va.: General McClellan directs me to say that the army has fallen back in front of Washington. All going well at present. You can carry out your own plans, but he wishes you to hurry things up as rapidly as possible. A. V. COLB URN, Assistant Adjutant- General. AQUIA, VA., September 3, 18621 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Washington, D. C.: It is impossible for us to make a speedy embarkation unless our ves- sels are returned from Alexandria more promptly. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. UPTONS HILL, VA., September 3, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: Major Titus, Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, paroled prisoner,~eports that on Monday he was near Gum Springs, a few miles southeast of Aldie. On that day the rebel forces marched past, from 3 a. m. till - dark, all day. The force was very large. The soldiers said they were bound for Harpers Ferry. On yesterday he was north of Centreville, on the Little River pike. Rebels would not let him pass by that road to Fairfax, but sent him around by Centreville, and thence to Fairfax. Saw troops, artillery, & c., in the triangle of Little River and Warrenton pikes(Stuarts cavalry, headquarters at Fairfax). Mr. Boyd, a Treas- ury clerk, one of the nurses with the wounded, was taken. He reports the same refusal to allow him to pass along the Little River pike this way, and they sent him around also by Centreville. He saw lights of camp along the road for a distance, as he judged, of 2 miles from the point where he was stopped toward Fairfax. Heard it was Jacksons force. Lieutenant Schermerhorn, of the Twenty-first New York, an escaped prisoner, also saw the force between the Little River pike and Warren- ton pike, and thinks it was the principal body of the enemy. All these persons are ordered to report at your headquarters, and a careful ex- amination may be advantageous. J. D. COX, [Brigadier. General. Page 171 CHAP. XXXI.J C0R1~ESPONDENCE, E1~O.UNION. 171 UPTONS HILL, VA., GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, September 3, 18624.35 p. m. Major-General, Gommanding: Lieut. Byron Schermerhorn, Company I), Twenty-first New York Vol- unteers, has just arrived, having made his escape from the enemy. He reports the main rebel army as lying on the Little River pike, about 4 miles from Fairfax Court-House. Last night they received orders to cook three days rations. Their artillery train is said to be very large. The wagon train is parked near the position of the troops, in rear. The soldiers all speak of marching to Washington. JNO. P. HATCH, Brigadier-General. ALEXANDRItL~ September 3, 18629.45 a. m. President LrNcOLN: Since the abandonment of Fairfax we are cut off from all sources of information. We are not operating any portion of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, but are preparing to send supplies by the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad. Everything quiet about Alexandria. No firing heard. I would send out an engine if there was prospect of ob- taining information thereby, but there is none. H. HAUPT. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPs, Washington, September 3, 186211.30 a. m. Maj. CHAUNCEY MOKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant- General: Please place our troops with the left, on the river, and extending as far as Sedgwicks division did. Get in the reports and requisitions for the supplies and equipments they want. General McClellan will be down in a few hours; meet him at the tele- graph office. General Franklin has some orders for me; get them and act on them. If anything more is wanted, telegraph to me at 275 II street. S. P. HEJNTZELMAN, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., September 3, 186210 a. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Under instructions, I have just arrived. From the commencement of the retreat of the army on Little River turnpike, nothing haI)pened to check the retreat. We received and gave a few shells at Fairfax Court- House and this side of there. My command consists of Couchs (livision, Patricks and finks brigades, and Bayards cavalry, with the exception of a l)ortion of the latter. This corps is awaiting orders. JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General Page 172 172 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (ChAP. X)~XL CAMP NEAR FORT ALBANY, September 3, [1862]7 a. m. General R. B. MARCY, Chkf of Staff, Army of the Potomac, Washington: The Eighth Illinois reported to General Cox last evening, according to orders. The Eighth Pennsylvania I have ordered to this canp. Yesterday ten companies of the Sixth Cavalry and ambulance train of my brigade disembarked, and are now in camp. There are oniy four companies of the First Cavalry to arrive to complete the Second Bri- gade. Please mention to the general that I went to Uptons Hill last even- ing with a squadron, as directed, and followed him beyond Falls Church. My detention was due to the roads being blocked up by troops and wagons coming in toward Alexandria. The ground I have selected is very good for camping cavalry, but trains are constantly stopping upon it. Caniiot these teams be ordered elsewhere I A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. General II. B. MARCY, SEPTEMBER 3, [1862]8.20 a. m. Chief of Staff, Washington: At 4.30, my squadron in front of Langley reports between Scotts IRan and Difficult Creek, at Spring Vale and Dranesville, considerable num- bers of the enemys cavalry are said to be statione(l. Numbers of Union men are coming into our lines from that direction, and report the im- pression is that the enemy is going to cross the Potomac at Walkers Landing. The river is forded there very easily, and artillery can be taken over, the bottom being hard. A great number of wagons were heard going in that direction yesterday. No enemy is reported on the Langley and Vienna road. A. PLEASONTON. ARLINGTON, VA.. September 3, 18629 p. in. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: Captain Sears reports that he has, this evening, placed the pickets at Padgetts Tavern, within 2 miles of the rebel pickets. A rebel captain and lieutenant delivered to this 70 paroled l)risoners. They report rebels in force between Annandale and Fairfax Court-House. Arrangements have been made with Generals Cox and Woodbury to forum corn muni- cations by patrol on each side, General Woodbury having a strong picket at Olivet Chapel. A. W. WHIPPLE, Brigadier- General. EDWARDS FERRY, VA,, September 3, 18621.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: If possible, send me one or two pieces of artillery, as they are needed at this point at present. I crossed over the river this morning. Sa Page 173 ChAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 173 3~ prisoners of war, who were taken from Captain Hunter and Curils company. They state, also, that Captain Hunter and Lieutenant Mill- ing and Lieutenant Gallagher are prisoners in the rebels hands, who will not let them go until they find out whether they belong to General Popes army or not. There are now in Leesburg one large regiment of cavalry and one of infantry, and they expect more this evening; so, if they should come to the river to cross, and I have one or two picces of cannon, I will assure your honor they shall not come over. W. II. H. YONTZ, Captain, Comdg. Company F and Post at Edwards Ferry. FORT MONROE, September 3, 1862. General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General, Washington: I have no doubt Colonel Ingalls sickness has much retarded the dis- charge and return of transports. The first week we had as many as could be loaded and unloaded; after which many of those best adapted to our purposes were transferred to other service. Had it not been for this interruption, everything connected with the Army of the Potomac would have been embarked in less than two weeks. Yesterday after- noon a large number of transports again arrived, and last night and to- day a very large business has been done. There is yet to embark only 4,800 horses, 320 wagolis, and 80 ambulances. If the transports are ~)ro1nptly returned, as I now think from my dispatches they will be, we can finish on Saturday. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 3, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: The Secretary of War directs that the l)aroled prisoners at Point of Rocks be sent to Cumberland, and a camp established at that place. There are strong indications that the enemy intend to cross the Poto- mac below, and cut off Harpers Ferry. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. POINT OF ROCKS, September 3, 18629.25 p. m. (Received 9.50 p. in.) Major-General WOOL, Baltimore: The l)aroled prisoners are still here, and will remain till morning, for want of transportation. Reliable information has just been received here that 400 rebel cavalry came to Waterford at 3 oclock this p. mn.~ and placed the town under martial law, and have posted pickets on Hillsborough and Lovettsville road. There is also a small force at Lees- burg, with pickets placed half a mile on this side. It is also reported that the rebel wagon trains are at Gum Spring, only guarded by about ~i) cavalry. JOHN FASKIN, Jieut. Col. Ei~ht~~-serenth ReVt. Ohio I~ols., in CQmmand Page 174 174 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL Hon. E. M. STANTON, BALTIMORE, IVIm, September 3, 1862. Secretary of War: From Colonel Miles: Jackson, it is said, is outfianking Pope, and his army is within 7 miles of Leesburg. He further says that Captain Cole reports that he was attacked by at least 800 cavalry. I presume this was in Loudoun County. Captain Means and his company broke and ran. JOHN B. WOOL, Major. General. HARPERS FERRY, September 3, 1862. Major-General WOOL: The Twelfth New York State Militia are greatly dissatisfied at not being discharged. I recommend to let them go. D. S. MiLES, Colonel Second Infantry. HARPERS FERRY, VA,, Maj. Gen. ~. ~. HALLECK, September 3, 18628.30 p. in. General-in- Chief: Brigadier-General White, with his command,.arrived here from Win- chester late this afternoon. All my trool)s from Winchester road are here. Report from Point of Rocks says the enemys cavalry is in Hill- borough and Lovettsville. A paroled prisoner from Leesburg says he saw infantry and artillery there this morning, and was tol(l it was a division of 12,000 men; that their pickets exteiided to Balls Bluff. 1). 5. MILES, Colonel Second Injantry. Hon. E. M. STANTON: WHEELING, VA., September [October /J 3, 1862. It is of the utmost importance that about eight regiments be sent to Clarksburg, that the rebels on Kanawha may be attacked via Louisville and the Gauley. They have 10,000 troops and 40 cannon at Charleston, working and transporting salt east. F. H. PEIRPOINT. HE kDQUARTERS, Washington, D. C., September 4, [1862312.30 p. in. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 1.45 ~. in.) Commander-in. Chief: GENERAL: Banks corps is on the march, per RockvilLe, Poolesville, & c., to watch and check the enemy should he attempt to cross the Po- tomac below the Point of Rocks. Sumner is in position near Tennallytown. Couchs division is probably by this time concentrated at Chain Bridge. Have ordered more cavalry and a battery to Edwards Ferry. The troops are beiiig rested and refitted, as well as circumstances will per- mit. No time has been lost in doing this. I am not quite well euou~ Page 175 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175 to ride out to-day, except in case of necessity, but have sent my aides in all directions. The shelling of the canal-boats is an old amusement of the rebels; it is probably a pretty strong proof that they do not intend to cross at Edwards Ferry. Very respectfully, yours, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, September 4, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, 6ommanding, ccc.: Captain Yontz, at 11 a. in., reports that the enemy is shelling boats at Edwards Ferry. If cavalry and artillery have not already been sent to that place, send some immediately. No details are given of enemys forces. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HEADQUARTERS, General R. E. LEE, Washington, September 4, 1862. Or Officer Comdg. Troops in front of United States Lines: GENERAL: I have sent Surgeon Moore, of the army, with a flag of truce to the front, accompanied by a burial party, for the purpose of interring the dead who may lie upon the field of the late battle near Bull Run. I request the courtesy of your permission to Surgeon Moore to perform the duties to which he has been assigned. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. AQUIA. CREEK, VA., September 4, 1862S p. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: By morning I will have loaded all my troops, excepting a rear guard of one regiment of infantry and about 50 cavalry; also all the teams, wagons, quartermasters stores, beef cattle, and a large portion of sub- sistence. There are seven engines and sixty cars; the majority of them poor. Two of the engines are very good. It would take about four days to load them if we had proper transportation. The cars should be loaded on barges, but they have not arrived. The engines could be4re- moved on ferry-boats. Shall I remain with the rear guard until all are secured, or shall I destroy them, or shall I leave the commanders of the rear guard to secure that, that I may at once proceed to Washington? A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. AQUTA, VA., September 4, 186211.15 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The last of my command, excepting the rear guard, will soon be off. I will leave definite instructions with the officer in command and be with you in the morning. The locomotives shall be saved if possible. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, ~Jommandin~ Page 176 176 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. UPTONS HILL, ~ September 4,18622.30 a. rn. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: Evidence accumulates that the main body of the rebels have gone in the direction of Leesburg. J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. UPTONS HILL, VA., September 4, 18623.45 p. m. General It. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff; Some rebel cavalry, with horse artillery, are fceliiig the front of Gen- eral Pleasontons lines. I sent forward a regiment of infantry and sec- tion of artillery to snpport him in front of Falls Church. This section is all I have out of the forts. J. 1). COX, Brigadier- General. UPTONS HILt, VA., September 4, 18625.40 p. in. Col. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General: The rebel force was on the hill just above Pi:nmit Hun, on Leesburg l)ike. They drove in General Pleasontons pickets to that point. The movements appear to be a feint. I saw cavalry and two pieces of light artillery. Should not estimate the force large. General Pleasonton is supported by Patricks brigade and one regiment of mine. General Pat- rick has a battery with them. I informed General Pleasonton that it was not regarded desirable to engage the enemy far in front of this position. He will keep some cavalry well forward and watch the move ment. In answer to the generals qnestion, Captain Barnes company, Fourth New York Heavy Artillery, is in Fort Ramsay, and is strong enough to man all the heavy guns there. I think it very desirable to arm Fort Buffalo with, say, 20-pounder Parrotts. I have two 20-pounders and two 10-pounders in it now, but would like very much to have a bat- tery of 20-ponnders there besides. If furnished with horses they could be easily moved and protected. J. D. COX, Brigadier-General. UPTONS HILL, VA., September 4, 18626.45 p. m. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General: The firing upon General Pleasontons command was from, possibly, three pieces of light artillery. The small-arm fighting was confined to the head of the enemys column, deployed as skirmishers, with some dismounted men or infantry, it is not certain which. The pickets of Pleasontons command, Eighth Lllinoi~ and Eighth Pennsylvania Cay- alry, skirmished with them. We lost 2 men shot. The force of the enemy (lid not come beyond the edge of the woods, 14 or 2 miles above Falls Chnrch, and no large numbers were actually seen. The reports sent by General Pleasontop were peCessarily those brought in by hi Page 177 CIIAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 177 men. A regiment of cavalry, with two light pieces, rapidly handled, would account for all the demonstration I could see with my glass, but there may have been more. General Pleasontons cavalry being or- dered away, we shall not have cavalry to scout the country till General Bufords arrive. Scouts report all quiet toward Fairfax and Little River pike. J. ft Cox, Brigadier- General, Commanding Divi8ion. CAMP NEAR FORT ALBANY, VA., S~ptember 4, 18625 a. m. Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: I have waited here to see the general, who sent me word he would be here for that purpose some time in the night. Shall be oft~ with what force I have, viz, Sixth Cavalry and two other companies, as soon as possible, to Falls Church, from whence I shall scout as directed. My headquarters will be at Falls Church. It is the best point, for reasons explained to Captain Custer last night. An express is just in from Langley, frQm my squadron there. It is scouting toward IDranesville, and also in the direction of Vienna. No enemy heard from yet. My expresses have great difficulty in getting through the different com- mands, being constantly stopped. There is no need of stopping them within our lines. It will be well. to have the telegraph extended to Falls Church, and send me some of the Signal Corps, for service ahead of that point. Lieutenants Clark and Camp, who were with me at Haxalls, are very good. Please have supplies for iuy command ordered to be forwarded by railroad to a poiiit opposite Falls Church, where .1 can make my depot. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General of Cavalry. NEAR FORT ALBANY, VA., September 4, 18628.20 a. m. General iR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: At 4.30, my squadron, in front of Langley, reports that between Scotts Ruii and Difficult Creek, at Spring Vale and Dranesville, considerable nunibers of the enemys cavalry are said to be stationed. Numbers of Union men are coming into our lines from that direction, and report thai the impressiou is that the enemy is going to cross the Potomac at Walkers Landing. The river there is forded very easily, and artillery can be taken over the bottom by hand. A great number of wagons were heard going in that direction yesterday. No enemy is reported on the Langley and Vienna roads. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. FALLS CHURCH, VA., September 4, 186212.45 p. m. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff Captain Cram, Sixth Cavalry, of scout toward Dranesville, reports, from Scotts Run, having just sent into General Sigel two of our infantry, 12 R RYOL XIX, PT I Page 178 178 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAr. XXXI. taken prisoners yesterday morning on the Fairfax road, and in the afternoon sent to iDranesville, and brought over Difficult Bi idge at sunset. The enemys advanced pickets, on the Leesbnrg and George- town turnpike, are three-fourths of a mile this side of Difficult Creek. This picket is 15 men strong. At the bridge on Difficult Creek there is a regiment of Mississippi cavalry, called the Jeff. l)avis Legion. The paroled infantrymen say they saw three regiments of cavalry, and the rebels told them they were 15,000 strong, under Stuart and Hampton. The rebels marched from the Alexandria turnpike to Dranesville, by a church, the Southern Church, above Youngs toll-gate, and took the road by Jacksons Mill into the Georgetown turnpike. Difficult Creek is nearly 3 miles from Scotts Run. Spring Vale is nearly 4 miles be. yond Difficult Creek. Dranesville is 2 miles beyond Spring Vale. Have heard nothing yet from scouts in the direction of Fairfax or Vienna. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- Gencral. FALLS CHURCH, VA., September 4, 18621.30 p. m. Brigadier-General MARCY, Chief of Staff: The squadron on the Vienna road reports the enemy to b~ approach- ing from that direction in some force. Had 1 man badly wounded in skirmish. There is also a force of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, under the lieutenant-colonel, on same road. My own opinion is, the enemy is only making a show of force to conceal his movements on the Upper Potomac. Please let me have the horse batteries promised as soon as they can be spared. A. PLEASONTOK, Brigadier. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Halls Hill, Va., September 4, 18624.30 p. m. Major.General MCCLELLAN: General Morell reports as follows, from Minors Hill: The enemy has commenced an attack upon our pickets with artillery, infantry, and cavalry. I am going to the front. Cannot you have telegraph pushed to Van- derwerkens to-night? F. J. PORTER, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Halls Hill, Va., September 4, 18629.30 p. m. General MARCY: Chaplain [E. P.] Walton, of Fifth Virginia Regiment, Jacksons forces, was brought just now from my picket line, having been taken making his way to his rebel friends. He states lie was captured near Gainesville and sent in, but not being a prisoner of war, was released to be returned. He has a pass from Gemieral Wadsworth, dated September 2, to go in direction of Manassas. Thinking it not prudent that at this time he should be j)ermitted to pass direct to the enemy, I have retained him, and ask for instructions, F. J. PORTER, Major- General, Commanding Page 179 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 179 HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, Halls Hill, Va., September 4, 18629.30 p. m. General B. B. MARCY: The picket line for the troops was established yesterday on its old line, running from Barrets to Kerleys [Kirbys]. No picket on the right or left could be found till today. Those on the left are not out far enough, and at present do not connect now on the right. I respectfully suggest that a staff officer be sent along our lines, to establish the picket lines and the proper connections between corps. I also suggest that the point hence to Langley is too far for me to guard with my small corps. I also request that some cavalry may be assigned me, for patrol and mes- senger purposes connected with the outposts. Stragglers from every corps line the roads and I would suggest that cavalry patrols be sent L1~Ofl them, to notify these men how to find their regiments, and to stop the fast driving of teamsters, now breaking down their animals. F. J. PORTER, Major. General, Gommanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WASHINGTON, D. C., No. I. September 4, 1862. Reynolds division, at present serving with McDowells corps, will at once rejoin Porters corps, relieving Ricketts division at Halls Hill; The latter will occupy the ground now held by the former. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. POINT OF ROCKS, September 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Baltimore: The captain commanding at Edwards Ferry reports the enemy in view, dra.~vn up at Balls Bluff. Messenger just in; in what strength does not say. John Seiber, just from Leesburg, reports that enemy have beeii passing fhrough Leesburg since 12 oclock last night up the pike toward Winchester, under command of Longstreet; that their force is a very large one. The men were worn out an(l hungry, and said they were going over the river into Maryland. He said he counted sixty pieces of artillery. Captain Means hasjust got here. He knows Seiber, and says he is perfectly reliable. Captain Bamford, of the Maryland regiment, also knows him to be a Unioii man and reliable. HENRY B. BANNING, Colonel Seventy-eighth Ohio Volunteer Militia. CAMDEN STATION, Baltimore, Md., September 4, 186211.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECIC General-in- Chief: Colonel Miles telegraphs, at 10.12 this p. in., that Colonel Banning, at Point of Rocks, states that the enemy, 30,000 strong, has passed be- low Point of Rocks. It is also reported that their cavalry are at Ope Page 180 180 OPERkTIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXT. quon, within 3 miles of Martinsburg, indicating a general and heavy movement. What support, besides the troops under command of Gen- eral Wool, can be relied upon ~l J. W. GARRETT, President Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 4, 186212 noon. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Major-General WooL, Baltimore, Md.: I am convinced that the various reports of infantry coming up to Lees- burg and through Manassas Gap into the Valley of the Shenandoah are without foundation of truth, originated by the marching of paroled pris- oners in the direction named. Information from Leesburg this morning says there is only some cavalry there. A paroled officer Lieutenant Wells, of Michigan cavalry, informs me that General Fitzhugh Lee was killed; Ewell lost a leg, and that Colonel Brodhead, Michigan cavalry, was killed on last Saturday. B. 5. MILES, Colonel Second Infantry. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 4, 18628.20 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: Cole scouted to-day as far as Lovettsville, in Lotudoun County, with- out seeing or hearing of the enemy. Captain Foote, Eighth [New York] Cavalry, has just returned from Charlestown, where he has been on a scout with a squadron of cavalry. A mile beyond Charlestown he dis- covered abont five companies of the enemys cavalry, who retired. Soon after, he was fired on by infantry. He estimated the number of infantry to be about 2,000. He returned the fire, killing 1 and wounding 2; had 3 horses wounded. A man from Leesburg reports that all day yesterday the enemys troops were passing through that town westward, but he did not see any artillery. B. 5. MILES, Colonel Second Infantry. HARPERS FERRY, VA., & ~ptember 4, 18628.20 p. m. Major-Generals HALLECK and WOOL: Colonel Banning, at Point of Rocks, reports that the enemy has passed the Potomac south of him in force, and advancing on him. B. 5. MILES, Colonel Second Infantry. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 4, 186210 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Major- General WOOL, Baltumore: Colonel Banning, 3 miles west of Point of Rocks, reports that he ha Page 181 CHA?. XXXI.) COPONt4~NCl3~, tIC .tYNION. 18l abandoned the place; that 30,000 of the enemy have crossed the Poto- mac, and are marching on him. I have ordered him to halt and obstruct the road, an(I that I would support hilu.* D. S. MILES, Colonel Second Infantry. BALTIMORE, [September] 4, 186210.30. Colonel MILES, Commanding Harpers Perry: Send the paroled prisoners, as soon as you can obtain cars, to Cumber- land. General White will either repair to this place or join the Army of the Potomac; but his troops and supplies will remain at Harpers Ferry until further orders, and you will dispose of them as circumstances may require. I have sent a regiment and a sectiou of artillery to Monoc- acy Bridge. Answer immediately. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. [SEPTEMBER] 4, [1862.] Colonel MILES, Harpers Perry: You will retain at Harpers Ferry, Va., all the troops there. Briga- dier-General XVhite can take his commissary with him, but he will be assigiied to duty as commissary of the post. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, September 4, 1862. Brigadier-General WHITE, Harpers Perry: GET~ERAL: You will repair to Martinsburg, Va., and take command of the trool)s at and near that station, instead of repairing to this city, as previously directed. You will adopt the most active and energetic measures to protect and defend that place and the road occupied by trool)s under your command. The most sleepless energy is expected. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. BALTIMORE, [September , 1862]10.30. Col. W. G. WAnD. [Twelfth Begt. New York State Militia], Harpers Perry: I thank you for your telegram. Surely your regiment will not desire to leave at the present, when their general asks theni to remain a few days. They would not be well received at New York if they should re- turn at this moment. They would be branded as cowards. I am not willing that they should lose their good name, when but a few days delay will entitle them to carry the proud name of brave soldiers. You and your officers, who consent to remain, merit the thanks of myself and of the whole country. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. * See Wool to Miles, same date, Part I, p. 522 Page 182 182 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HARPERS FERRY, September 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Baltimore: Your dispatch received. In reply, I must most respectfully but earn- estly urge that my command be sent home on Saturday next at very latest. It is, as before urged, of the utmost importance, to enable me to control my regiment, that a day should be named for their return. A few days is too indefinite. Please answer, naming the day when they will be sent home. W. G. WARD, Colonel Twelfth New York State Militia. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS Col. DIXON ~. MILES, Baltimore, September 4, 1862. Commanding at Harpers Ferry: COLONEL: I have received your dispatch* stating that the report about the advance of the enemy, as before reported, is unfounded. I under. stand that Winchester has been abandoned without the approach or presence of an enemy, and that it has not been occupied by the rebels. Answer immediately. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] WASHINGTON, September 5, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: The President has directed that General Pope be relieved and report to War Department; that Hooker be assigned to command of Porters corps, and that Franklins corps be temporarily attached to Heintzelmans. The orders will be issued this afternoon. Generals Porter and Franklin are to be relieved from duty till the charges against them are examined. I give you this memorandum in advance of the orders, so that you may act accordingly in putting forces in the field. Very respectfully, H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. WASHINGTON, September 5, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLA~N, Commanding, & e.: I think there can now be no doubt that the enemy are crossing the Potomac in force, and that you had better dispatch General Sumner and additional forces to follow. If you agree with me, let our troops move immediately. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. ARLINGTON, September 5,186212.05 p. m. General MARCY: Your order to have my command ready to march with three (lays rations received. Please inform me what is my command, and where it is. General McClellan has ordered my troops to take I)05t at van- * See Miles to Halleck and Wool, September 4, 12 in., p. 180 Page 183 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 183 ous places, and I have never been notified in a single instance of their positions. He has communicated directly with them, and I know, and can know, nothing of their whereabouts. JNO POPE, Major- General. ARLINGTON, September 5, [1862]12.05 p. in. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I have just received an order from General McClellan to have my command in readiness to march with three days rations and further details of the march. What is my command, and where is it? McClel- lan has scattered it about i~ all directions, and has not informed me of the position of a single regiment. Am I to take the field and under McClellans orders? JNO. POPE, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 5, 1862. Major-General POPE, Arlington: The armies of the Potomac and Virginia being consolidated, you will report for orders to the Secretary of War. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS, Washington, September 5, 186211.30 p. in. Major-General McDoWELL, Or Senior Officer with his Corps, Balls Cross-Roads: General Cox has been ordered to march as soon as he is relieved by troops from your command. The commanding general directs that you at once send a force to relieve his pickets. Please acknowledge receipt of this dispatch. iR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. ALEXANDRIA, VA., September 5, 1862. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: My regiment is not disembarked. Arrived here after dark. Dont know whether it would be better to disembark here or at Washington, but rather incline to the latter. I expect the Fifth United States and Fourth Pennsylvania to be here to-morrow night. Tidballs battery will probably be here to-morrow. WM. W. AVERELL, (olonel, Commanding. UPTONS HILL, VA., September 5, 18621.30 a. in. Col. A. V. COLEURN, Assistant Adjutant. General: General Pleasonton had gone when I came out. The roads, I am in- formed, are carefully picketed with infantry, with cavalry vedettes i Page 184 184 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XX~4. front, and as I do not know the roads, I shall have to wait for morning before placing force. The Jersey regiment is on the Leesbnrg pike with General Patrick, 100 strong. The Pennsylvania cavalry, 200 strong, on the Columbia pike. The Rhode Island, 450 strong, I shall take over to Minors Hill, and hold the Harris Light 400, in reserve near Uptons Hill. They will be posted by the earliest light. GEG. B. BAYARD, Brigadier. General, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS KANAWITA DIVISION, Uptons Hill, Va., September 5, 18621.25 p. m. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant-General: Cavalry scouts on the Leesburg pike rel)ort seeing a picket of 4 caval- rymen on Court-House Hill at 8 oclock this morning. Four miles out on Fairfax road from Falls Church no pickets seen, but bugles heard. Infantry and artillery are reported as moving off last night. Two regi- ments of cavalry remaining within 3 miles of Falls Church last night, and moving off this morning. J. B. CQX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. FORT LYON, September 5, 18621 p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Washington: You are ordered to hold your command in readiness to march with three days rations. General Hooker is still here in command, so that I cannot issue any orders until you arrive. CHAUNCEY MoKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. FORT LYON, VA., September 5, 1862. Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Your dispatch to General Heintzelman has been presented to me.* It is my duty to report that Kearnys and my division are in no con- dition to march, and, from their great losses in battle, are in no condi- tion to engage the enemy. I have lost all of my valuable officers, and what my division did not lose on James River was destroyed in our late detour into the country. Kearnys is not much better. All of my bat- teries, I am informed, have been ordered elsewhere; they are not with me. JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General. SUGAR LOAF MOUNTAIN, Mm9 a. in., Via Frederick, Md3.30 p. m. (Received September 5, 18626.25 p. in.) Major-General BANKS, Commanding Second Corps, Army of Virginia: The enemy crossed the Potomac at Kolands Ferry last evening. Pickets of Manisbys r ~gimnent stationed at the aqueduct. After firing * Not foutid. But see MeKeever to Heintzelman, above Page 185 CO1fl~ESPOND13~NCE, ETC.UNIO~. off their ammunition, passed here en route to Frederick. They report that pickets of an Ohio regiment at the ferry retreated without tiring a gnu. The river is easily fordable at that point. I can see about 2,000 of the enemy upon this side, scattered along from the aqueduct to Nolauds Ferry; judge they are cavalry. Can see two guns in position UI)Ofl opposite side of the river. Cannot discover the enemy in force at that point, nor near Leesburg, though such reports are current. MINER, Signal Officer, Banks Division. DARNESTOWN, MD., September 5, 186211.30 a. in. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Just arrived, having explored the river road thoroughly. It is picketed some 4 miles out with infantry, and no attempt will be made to cross below Seneca. The main part of my force and a battery came to this place by the way of Rockville. I could not find Bufords cavalry at Chain Bridge. The Massachusetts regiment is now picketing all the fords. Longstreet crossed over last night with cavalry, and attacked the First Massachusetts Cavalry (one company) at Monocacy Ford. They attempted to make a bridge, to cross artillery, but gave it up. From what I see of this country, I do not think they will cross the Potomac iii large force below Harpers Ferry. The Massachusetts regiment report 4 or 5 killed and some 10 or 15 prisoners. Longstreet has returned to the other side, and the enemy has been shelling Edwards Ferry to-day. Colonel Carter, Third Indiana Cavalry, has reported with a battery. I shall send, for the present, one squadron to Poolesville, to examine and report affairs there. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier. General, Commanding Cavalry. DARNESTOWN, Mn., September 5, 18625 p. m. General B. B. MARCY: My pickets at Poolesville report 3,000 infantry on that side of the river, and that the enemy seems to be massing his troops in the vicin- ity of Balls Bluff and Edwards Ferry, where he thinks they will cross. They have taken two or three canal-boats and have blown up the aque- duct. A. PLEASOXTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Cavalry. Munn~ BRANCH, BOCKYILLE TU~NPIKE, Mn., September 5, 18626.30 p. m. General B. B. MARCY: Banks corps has not made its appearance to-day. I suppose it has taken the river road, which is a very long one. Should it take 1)ost at Darnestown, I can open the communication to Bockville, but I do not think the corps can maintain itself at IDarnestown. One of Baiiks staff officers told me today that his corps is not over 5,000 strong. This i Page 186 186 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. vA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXI. too small a force at that point, with its flank exposed on the Frederick road. I want more cavalry. Send Averell to me as soon as he can come; also Tidballs battery. The next two or three days will be busy, and my cavalry cannot do all the work necessary here. A. PLEASONTOX, Brigadier- General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 5, 18627 p. m. General H. B. MARCY: Signal officer of Banks corps reports from Sugar Loaf Mountain: The enemy crossed at Nolands Ferry last evening. The river is easily fordable at that point. Saw about 2,000 of the enemy on this side, scattered along from the aque- duct to Nolands Ferry. Think they are cavalry. Saw two guns in position on op- posite side of the river, at Nolands Ferry. Cannot discover the enemy in force at that point, nor near Leesburg. Such reports arB, however, current. A. PLEASOXTON, Brigadier- General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 5, 186211.30 p. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Captain Crowninshield, First Massachusetts Cavalry, just in from Edwards Ferry, reports no enemy there. Saw dust of enemy at Whites Ferry, 7 miles above. From direction of dust it is thought the enemy is moving toward Frederick. He has a large force on this side of the river. A rebel deserter told Captain Crowninshield that Jackson, Long- ~treet, Smith, and Hill were crossing, and that they had sixty pieces of cannon, and a force of between 30,000 and 45,000 men. Banks corps is some 4 miles to the rear of me, on this road, and Sumner was moving up this evening. My pickets are about 2 miles beyond Darnestown at this time. Oiiie Captain Chamberlain, of the First Massachusetts C~v- alry, is missing, and some 21 men prisoners. One killed and 1 badly wounded in skirmish to-day. A. PLEASOXTON, Brigadier- General. HALLS HILL, VA., September 5, 1862. General H. B. MARCY: The enemys infantry again appeared this afternoon on our picket line in sufficient force to drive in small parties on Barrets Hill. The enemy boasted of their intention to have and hold it to-day. All quiet to-night. I had insufficient force to furnish the picket line, hence the late hour at which I was informed of this approach, the report having to be brought by footmen. The pickets are about 4 miles out. F. J. PORTER, Major- General, Commanding. HALLS HILL, VA., September 5, 186211.50 p. m. ~rigadier-General MARCY: I request that the picket line in McDowells front be made to connect with mimine at Ban-cts, on the turnpike, and the old line of last winte Page 187 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. be re-established. Mine is at Barrets. His commences at the railroad depot at Falls Church, thus exposing all the roads toward Fairfax to the l)ossessioll of the enemy, and permitting hitii to come in and cut behind me before detection. One man was shot in this way to-day. I have asked General 1\LcDowell to re-establish the old lines, but I think a staff officer should be sent to do it. The commanding officer on picket says the enemy have been making much noise with one piece to-day, by running it about over the roads, as if trying to create the impression he was going to do something. He says the cavalry are badly posted. One of them was shot to-day. F. J. PORTER, Major. General, Commanding. HALLS HILL, September 5, 186212 midnight. General MCDOWELL: My l)icket line is now formed, and the left rests on Barrets Hill. Yours commences at the railroad depot, and runs down the pike to- ward Falls Church and then crosses. The enemy today came in by Klocks and can come down the dirt road and cut in behind me unob- serve(l. May I reqnest of you to re-establish the old picket line of last winter, connecting with mine on the pike at Barrets HilL? If we do not hold the latter we may as well retire to Falls Church, and I shall be compelled to draw in my left. The troops now picketing on this l)art of your line are new, and a staff officer knowing the ground must make the connection. F. J. PORTER. Major- General, Commanding. DARNESTOWN, MD., September 5, 18629.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKS: I have just returned from Barnesville; found the eLlemys l)ickets there. Enemy rel)orted to have crossed the river at Monocacy, 30,000 strong. Enemy at Poolesvifle and Sugar Loaf. W. W. ROWLEY, Signal Officer. POOLESYILLE, MD., Septe~nber 5, 18621.50 a. m. Col. L. C. BAKER, 277 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D. C.: A captain of the First Michigan Cavalry reports the rebels crossing the Potomac in considerable numbers at 11 p. in., at the month of the Monocacy Creek. Have taken several prisoners and killed 4 or 5. Were building a bridge for their artillery to cross. Will report more fully to-morrow. Our forces, only 400 or 500, are ready to march from Edwards Ferry. When will they be re-enforced I I saw clouds of dust between Dranesville and Leesbnrg, and suppose the rebels or baggage tra in must have occasioned it. They were moving toward Leesburg. W. P. THOMPSON Page 188 188 OPERA~PIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. tCITAP. N~C~t. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 223. Washington, September 5, 1862. * * * * * * * III. By direction of the President of the United States, Maj. Geii. Jose1)h Hooker is assigned to the command of the Fifth Army Corps. The Sixth Army Corps is temporarily attached to the Third, under Major-Genei.al Heintzelman. Major-Generals Fitz John Porter and William B. Franklin and Brig. Gen. Charles Griffin are relieved from their respective commands until the charges against them can be investigated by a court of inquiry. The Armies of the Potomac and Virginia being consolidated, Major- General Pope will report to the Secretary of War as a witness on a court of inquiry. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: E. B. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS, No. 2. Washington, September 5, 1862. Col. Henry J. Hunt, aide-de-camp, is announced as chief of artillery at these headquarters, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 5, 186210.15 a. m. Major-General WooL, Baltimore: I have already telegraphed you this morning, but fear that the enemy has possession. This will be sent in cipher, and also via Wheeling. Colonel Banning reports A. P. Hills division (30,000) crossed the Poto- mac before dark last night; kept crossing aJI night, and are now crossing at a higher ford, about 3 miles from Point of Rocks. They have cut the canal at Seven-Mile level. As Bannings force would be cut off if he stai(l longer, I have ordered him to retreat slowly. D. 5. MILES, Colonel Second Infantry. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, BALTIMORE, MD., September 5, 1862. General-in- Chief: Colonel Cram, whom I sent np the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to as- certain, if possible, the truth of the various rumors and repoits, informs me by telegraph that 1,00%) cavalry crossed the Potomac 2~ miles east of Point of Rocks, at4 a. m. Two companies of Colonel Bannings cominaiid, at Point of Rocks, this morning, about 8 oclock, fired into a rebel picket of some 200, this side of the river. He is informed that two pieces of artillery have crossed. Colonel Miles, at Harpers Ferry. reports that a large force is crossing 3 miles east of Poiiit of Rocks. The telegrap Page 189 ChAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ELTC.UNION. 189 lines appear as yet to be undisturbed. The enemy have cut the canal to let out water. Reliable persons say the Potomac can be forded at almost every point. My troops are all new, and unacquainted with the duties required of them. It is especially so with the officers. I am doing all that I can to improve them. It was reported to Mr. Garrett, president of the railroad, that about 5,000 men passed during the night at the mouth of the Monocacy River. They fired on pickets with infantry and artillery. I have two regiments here, arming themselves, but the offi- cers and men are wholly ignorant of their duties. They will be of no use in the field. I propose to place them at Washington Junction and Relay House. Telegram just received from Colonel Cram, dated Monoc- acy, 12 in., says he has reason to believe that 30,000 rebels crossed at the mouth of the Monocacy River last night. Two brigades of rebels are reported to be at Charlestown, 8 miles from Harpers Ferry. Another dispatch to Mr. Garrett says the enemy has crossed the river, at or near the mouth of the Monocacy, 30,000 strong, and more to come, under command of General Hill. Answer. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 5, 1862. Major-General WooL, Baltimore, Aid.: 1 find it impossible to get this army into the field again in large force for a day or two. In the mean time Harpers Ferry may be attacked and overwhelmed. I leave all dispositions there to your experience and local knowledge. I beg leave, however, to suggest the propriety of withdrawing all our forces in that vicinity to Maryland Heights. I have no personal knowledge of the ground, and merely make the saggestion to you. H. W. HALLECK, General.in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, September 6, 1802. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: You need not wait for the change of commanders, but move McDowells corps at once. I think the change will be made this afternoon. I will try immediately. Yours, & c., W. HALLECK, General.in.Chief. P. S.Hooker has been assigned to Porters corps, and it has been directed that Beno be assigned to McDowells. H. W. II. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 6, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: GENERAL: General Sumner reports the enemy moving toward Rock. ville. It will save a great deal of trouble and invaluable time if yo Page 190 190 OPERATIONS IN N. VA, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAr. XXXI. will suspend the operation of the order in regard to Franklin and Porter until I can see my way out of this difficulty. I wish to move Franklins corps to the front at once. To prevent a change iu Burnsides command while on the march, I would urgently recommend that Hooker be as- signed to McDowells corps. The Secretary told me he would cheer- ftilly agree to anything of this kind that met your approval, and I really feel it necessary for me to ask for these things at once. Very truly, yours, cTEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. General I). P. Woonnuny, WASHINGTON, September 6, 1862. Commanding Engineer Brigade: I understand from General Marcy that you, at my request, have been l)laced in engineering charge over the Eastern Branch, or command. I do not know how the order is made out, but it can be arranged either way you prefer. That line requires to be made as defensible as possible, in view of possible early attack. Mr. Gunnell is having woods cleared in front of Forts Meigs, Baker, & c. I could wish the interval between Forts Meigs and Mahan, and Fort Mahan and the bridge, better ob- structed. That side of attack would hardly be chosen, unless with the expectation of seizing the bridges before we could destroy them. I hope you will take up the matter with interest, as this is the time of our need. Yours, & c., J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier- General. G~eneral S. WILLIAMS, WASHINGTON, September 6, 1862. Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: As has been reported on several occasions, by memoran- dum or otherwise, to the commanding general, there is an immense deal of work to be done to make our defensive lines north of the Potomac respectably strong. Large areas of timber must be felled, several new works built, and, in addition, a connecting series of rifle-pits is desir- able. The new regiments recently assigned to army corps, by Special Orders, No. 3, have been got into position with a view to this work. Colonel Haskins letter of this date will show how they are employed. Several have been specially assigne(1 to the forts, and have made great progress as gunners. Others have been put where wood-cutting was needed. The order will materially retard the progress of these operations. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, Septcmber 6, 1862. Major-General IIEINTZELMAN: The con)manding general directs that you at once order Major- General Hooker to proceed to Uptons Hill, and assume command o Page 191 ChAP. XXXI.] 191 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. the army corpa hitherto commanded by Major-General McDowell. It is important that this be communicated to General Hooker at once, as General McDowells corps is under orders to march, and is now perhaps in motion. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- Genera~. WASHINGTON, September 6, 18622 a. m. Brig. Gen. IL B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Your dispatch of 1L30 p. m. of yesterday just received, and orders issued for General Coxs pickets to be relieved. My headquarters are at Arlington. IRVIN MCDOWELL, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGToN, September 6, 18624.05 p. in. (Received 5.3() p. in.) Major-General MCDOWELL, Or Senior Officer tJomdg. First Army Corps, Uptons fill: General McClellan directs that you move your corps at once to this side of the river, by the Long and Aqueduct Bridges, taking the Sev- enth street road to Leesborough, or its vicinity. It is important that this movement be made promptly. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS, Near Arlington House, September 6, 18625.30 p. in. Colonel COLBIJRN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington: I have received your telegram, directed to Uptons Hill, ordering the movement of Third Corps to Leesborough. As I am informed at the War Department that I am relieved from the command of this corps, II have turned over the order to the second in commandGeneral Rick- etts. IRVIN MCDOWELL, Major- General. SEPTEMBER 0, 18627.50 p. in. Brig. Gen S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington: Shall the divisions of the Third Corps, ordered to move to Leesbor- ough, quit the forts at Uptons Hill before they are dismantled and the ammnnition removed i Will you please give the order direot, as I move my headquarters to Washington ~ IRVIN MCDOWELL, Major- General Page 192 192 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAr. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY, Scptember 6, 1862. Major-General MCDOWELL, Arlington: General Porter has been instructed to relieve the pickets of the Third Corps immediately, and to remove the heavy guns from Uptons Hill during the night, leaving an advance guard in the works there to hold it against an attack of pickets or inferior force. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS CORPS DARM]~E, Arlington, [September] 6, 18626.45 p. m. BrigadierGeneral KING, Or Commanding Officer of his Division, Uptons Hill: Call in your pickets and put your division in march immediately for Leesborough or vicinity, via Aqueduct Bridge and Seventh street road. By command of Major-General McDowell: ED. SCHIIIVEIR, Colonel and Chief of Staff. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff My scouts on the tow-path, the mountain road, and the river road report everything quiet up to 3 a. m. No enemy visible. Should the enemy move in the direction of Washington from his present position, it will l)e by the Frederick road, his right resting on the Darnestown road; but some of my cavalry are so nervouslcannotmakemuchout of their reports. My pickets on the Poolesville road are at Seneca Creek. They have just reported everything quiet on that road, and the enemy not in sight. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 6, 18628.30 a. m. General H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: I have just learned that Lees corps, said to number 30,000, crossed above yesterday, and moved down in the direction of Poolesville; and that Jackson is to move by the Frederick road the tack on Washington. This looks probable, design being an at- for a flank movement by them to Baltimore would expose them fatally. Should this be the case, our point of defense must be IRockville and Brookville, and the line between them, connecting with Offutts, Leesborough, and Tennallytown, would be the route for our troops and supplies. If this is the enemys programme, his design will be to turn our right or pierce our center. He cannot go through on our left, by the Potomac IRiver, on account of the broken country. This simplifies matters, and shows Brookville and Hockville should be well looked after. Please send me some cavalry, to scout in front of Brookville. I have one squadron there now, but want more that I can rely on. Brookville, Mechanicsville, aiid Hock- ville are in about the same line. Send Averells brigade, with a battery, to Middlebrook, on the Hockville and Frederick road, and let them r Page 193 CHAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 193 port to me from that place, as it will save time. Middlebrook, Dames- town, and Seneca Bridge, on the road from Brookville to Clarksburg, must be my position until driven in or re-enforced. Let Bufords bri- gade be sent to Seneca Bridge. These dispositions will completely cover the front, until the general can complete his arrangements. I have two regiments at Damnestown, and shall send a section of artillery there. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. MUDDY BRANCH, Mn., September 6, 186211 a. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Report from picket states the enemy to be advancing in considerable force from Poolesville to Seneca Mill. This indicates a movement on this road to try, possibly, to turn my left. If this report is corroborated I shall take up a position a mile farther back, to cover the road coming from the river at that point. I have a regiment, First iNew York Cav- alry, at Middlebrook, and a squadron of First Cavalry at Seneca Bridge, leading out from Mechanicsville. A. PLEASOINTOK, Brigadier- General. Munnv BRANCH, Mn., September 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Just heard from the squadron of the First Cavalry at Mechanicsville. Is picketing at Unity and Cracklinton, with pickets on the road to Seneca Bridge. No enemy there. Unity is on the main road to Da- mascus, and also to Cooksville, on the Frederick and Baltimore turn- pike. As soon as that regiment arrives at Mechanicsville, my orders are there for it to be established in the above-mentioned places. Some firing was heard on the Rockville and Frederick road this evening. I think the enemy was shelling my pickets near Clarksburg. Have not yet heard froip them. A. PLEASONTOX, Brigadier- General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 6, 186211.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Mr. iDawson, Union man, and collector of this district, has just in- formed me that the troops at Poolesville are under A. P. Hill, and that it is thought he has some 30,000 men. He says my map of the country is very correct. Will send you a copy as soon as it can be traced. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. MUDDY BRANCH, Mn., General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: September 6, 18621 p. m. I have sent three regiments of cavalry over on the Frederick road, at Gaithersburg. This makes four regiments on that road, with pickets 13 R RVOL XIX, PT II Page 194 194 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI out to Clarksburg. These regiments I have ordered to scout over the road to the Frederick and Baltimore turnpike, and keep me informed of the enemys movements. My position here is not very good. I shall move back a couple of miles, to cover some roads now in my rear. Two regiments are still at Darnestown. All quiet at last accounts. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier.General. MUDDY BRANCH, Mn., General R. B. MARCY: & ~ptember 6, 18622 p. m. Dispatch of 11.40 a. m. received. Wheu the regiment arrives at Mechanicsville, I shall have the country thoroughly picketed from the Potomac, at Seneca Mill, to Cooksville, on the Baltimore and Frederick turnpike. My stations are: Darnestown, two regiments; Middlebrook, one regiment; Brookville, one regiment; and the pickets extend to Clarks- burg, Seneca Bridge, on the road to Poolesville, and near Edwards Ferry. The enemy crossed yesterday at Spinkles Ferry and Conrads Ferry. At these points they crossed large forces of all arms. I have the Poto. mac, below Edwards Ferry, thoroughly picketed. The regiment to report to me at IRockville I shall post at Brookville, to scout the country and picket on our right and front. At this point I have two batteries and three regiments, doing picket and station duty. General Sumner has some forces within 2 miles of my rear, and I have kept him posted about matters in front. Cannot spare map, bat will give you a tracing if you will send me some tracing paper. Your dispatch of 2 p. m. re- ceived. Just heard from front that large clouds of dust are seen about Sugar Loaf Mountain. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 6, 18628.30 p. m. General B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Just heard from First New York Cavalry at Middlebrook, which has four companies at Clarksburg, picketing the roads in that vicinity, and at Keilsville. Colonel McBeynolds reports that he has heard from two respectable Union citizens, one of them who left Barnesville before daylight this morning, that the rebels have a large force iii and around Barnesville (some 30,000 or 40,000 men), under Jackson; that they had, at noon to-day, extended their pickets to within 3 miles of Clarksburg, and that the loyal citizens had been compelled to take down their Union flags, by the threats of their rebel neighbors, who boastingly said the rebels would occupy Clarksburg to-night. It is 6 miles from Clarksburg to Middlebrook. I think the firing to-night was at Clarksburg, on my pickets. Can you hurry up that regiment at Mechanicsville? A. PLEASONTOY, Brigadier- General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 6, 18629.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: The pickets have just sent in a man, who left Leesburg this a. in. and crossed the river at Point of Rocks. He says there are no troops Page 195 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 0 195 at Leesburg, and at Barnesville only two regiments of cavalry. That the army (some 60,000 strong, so the soldiers told him) was under Jack- son, and are going to Baltimore. That the enemy has left Barnesville for Baltimore lias been reported from another source. The man from Leesburg states that the rebel soldiers are running over the country, hunting something to eat, and are a hard-looking, alargenum- ber of stragglers. I can hardly think they are pushing for Baltimore yet. This man is an Irishman, and has been exempt from conscription before this, but now the rebels declare they will take everybody. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. HALLS HILL, VA., September 6,186212.15 a. in. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIA~IS: GENERAL: The consolidated reports from the divisions have not yet been received, but can expect five in the morning. The following is an approximate return sent in: Morells divisionBerdans Sharpshooters, 14 officers, 411 enlisted men; Martins battery, C, Massachusetts artil- lery, 8 officers, 154 enlisted men; Hazletts battery, D, Fifth Artillery, 3 officers, 107 enlisted men; Watermans battery, C, Rhode Island artil- lery, 5 officers, 154 enlisted men. Total, 30 officers, 826 enlisted men. Martindales brigade, about 1,100; Butterfields brigade, about 1,000; General Piatts brigade, 58 officers, 1,457 enlisted men; Griffins brigade, 1,700; Sykes division, 168 officers, 3,652 enlisted men. Many of these men are recruits and convalescents, not yet equipped. F. J. PORTER, Major- General. HALLS HILL, September 6, 1862. Major-General MCDOWELL: Please let me know when you will move. What force will be required at the Seminary? What force at Uptons Hill? F. J. PORTER, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS, Arlington, September 6, 18626.45 p. m. (Received 7.55 p. in.) Major-General PORTER, Halls Hill: Knowing nothing of the plans of the general commanding, I am un- able to answer your questions contained in the telegram. IRVIN MCDOWELL, Major- General. FORT CORCORAN, September 6, 1862. Colonel MCQUADE, Commanding Uptons Hill: You must hold the works against any attack of skirmishers or inferior forces, and withdraw only on attack or indication of determined attack by superior forces. F. J. PORTER, Major- General Page 196 196 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI HEADQUARTERS THIRD CORPS, Near Arlington, Va., September 0, 1862-~-7 .30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General: As directed in your telegram of 5th instant, I send the following: The strength of Kings division is 7,357 officers and men, of whom 699 are sick; Ricketts division is 5,088, of whom 499 are sick; Reynolds division, 4,047. No return of the cavalry brigade, composed of five skeleton regiments, has yet come to hand. General McDowell is absent for a moment from camp. ED. SCHRIVER, Colonel and Chief of Staff. NEAR ROCKVILLE, MD., September 0, 1862. General R. B. MARCY: I am in position with Banks and my own corps ou strong ground. I have heard nothing from the front for thp last two hours. They (the enemy) cannot be advancing or I must have heard of it. I think it too late for them to make an attack to-night, if they intend doing so at all. General Conch reports all quiet. E. V. SUMNER, Major- General. CAMP NEAR ROCKYILLE, MD., September 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: A spy, in whom I have confidence, has just returned from Poolesville. He reports the enemy has passed Poolesville, and has taken the direc- tion of Frederick. From the best information he could obtain, he esti- mates their force at about 50,000. E. V. SUMNER, Major- General. AQUIA, VA., September 0, 18627.30 a. m. General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE: All the engines and valuable property are on board of transports. The cars cannot be removed. I have them on the dock. I l)~Ol)O5O setting them on fire, destroying cars, wharf, and buildings. Shall I destroy everything I The rebel scouts are all around as. I have had all the troops fall back to this point, and will have them and all the good commissary stores on board within two hours. The rebels captured 7 of the Vermont cavalry and 3 stragglers from my regiment yesterday evening. THOS. WELSH, Colonel. WASHINGTON, September 6, 1802. Col. THOMAS WELSH, Aquia: If the cars and remaining property can be (lestroyed without de Page 197 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 197 stroying the buildings and wharf, do so; if not, destroy everything. Embark your command at once and report to me at this place, Willards Hotel, or Leesborough, 10 miles north of Washington. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ WAiL DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 224. f Washington, September 6, 1862. * * * * * * * XIII. Major-General McDowell, at his own request, is hereby relieved from the command of the Third Army Corps, and Major-General iReno is, by direction of the President, assigned to the command. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS, No. 3. Washington, September 6, 1862. I. The following-mentioned new regiments are distributed as herein- after indicated, and will proceed forthwith to join their respective corps and stations, viz BTJRNSIDES CORPS, at Leesborough, 6 miles out Seventh street. 15th Connecticut. 16th Connecticut. 35th Massachusetts. 17th Michigan. 20th Michigan. 9th New Hampshire. FRANKLINS CORPS, near Theological Seminary, Va. 18th Maine. 19th Maine. [121st Pennsylvania.*] 136th Pennsylvania. 137th Pennsylvania. HELNTZELMANS CORPS, near Fort Lyon. 11th New Jersey. 15th New Jersey. 117th New York. 120th New York. 141st Pennsylvania. 149th Pennsylvania. SUMNERS CORPS, at Rockville, Md. 14th Connecticut. 108th New York. 130th Pennsylvania. 132d Pennsylvania. BANKS CoRPs. 24th Michigan. 13th New Jersey. 107th New York. 128th New York. 124th Pennsylvania. 125th Pennsylvania. F. J. PORTERS CORPS. 121st New York. 6~th Pennsylvania. 114th Pennsylvania.t 118th Pennsylvania. 119th Pennsylvania. 142d Pennsylvania. Assigned September 7. tAssigned to Bafiks corps by slll)scqnent order of same date. Page 198 198 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXL Coucns DIVISION. P2d New York. 139th Pennsylvania. 116th Pennsylvania.* * * * * * * * XVII. Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker is assigned to the command of the Third Corps, Army of Virginia, lately commanded by Major-General McDowell. He will assume command immediately. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant. General. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 6, 18621.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK: The following telegram just received from Mr. iDiffey, supervisor of trains, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, dated Plane No. 4: Just returned from within half a mile of Monocacy Bridge. Was informed at Mon. rovia to keep a good lookout. We felt our way with engine to near Reels Mill, where I left engine and car and started afoot. When within about a half a mile of the bridge I met Joel Riggs, foreman of repairs, who was sent by Mr. Mantz to meet me, and to say that the enemy were advancing to Frederick in large force, by the Georgetown road, and that 5,000 had then passed, and still more were following, as far as they could see. Telegraph lines are cut at the east end of the bridge. Mooney, operator at Monocacy, taken to Frederick a prisoner. They are very quiet and orderly. Many barefoot and clothes much worn out. This information is correct. After meeting Riggs, I deemed it prudent to return and not Venture any farther. I have way-trains here, and will send mail-train back from Monrovia. The above telegram was addressed to Mr. Smith, master of transpor- tation, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. I have no force in this city to meet the rebels. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Washington, September 6, 1862. Baltimore, Md.: General Halleck directs me to say to you that you have full power for every emergency, and must exercise it for the maintenance of order in the city. He will inform you of military movements. W. P. JONES. General CULLUM, Chief of Staff: MARTINSBURG, September 6, 1862. I reported my arrival at Harpers Ferry to General Halleck, and shortly afterward I received orders from Major-General Wool to repair to this p~, leaving my command and some six other regiments, under Colonel Miles, at Harpers Ferry, very much to my astonishment and re- gret. I respectfully ask to be restored to my command, if consistent with the public interests. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. * Assigned, September 7, to the Defenses of Washington Page 199 CHAI. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 199 HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. C., September 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. JuLIus WHITE, Harpers Ferry, Va.: No order from General ilalleck has been given to you to go to Mar. tinsburg. G. W. OULLUM, Chief of Staff. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 225. Washington, September 6, 1862. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. John iR. Kenly, U. S. Volunteers, will report in person to Maj. Gen. John E. Wool, U. S. Army, to organize and command a brigade of new troops. * * * * * * * By command of Major.General Halleck: E. B. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 7, 18627 a. m. General R. B. MARCY: It is so important to have a regiment of cavalry at Unity, Cooksville, and Damascus, that I shall send one from here, unless you can assure me there will be one at Mechanicsville very soon. This will make me short-handed here, but the right flank is, I think, now the one to be looked after. Please reply. A. PLEASOINTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 7, 18627.15 a. m. Brig. Gen. B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: The following are the distances of the different places in front of our lines from each other, viz: IRoekville to IDarnestown, 9 miles; iDarnestown to Poolesville, 9 miles; Muddy Branch to Darnestown, 4 miles; Muddy Branch to Middlebrook, 8 milesacross the country, 4 miles; Middlebrook to Clarksburg, 6 miles; Poolesville to Conrads Ferry, 5 miles; Poolesville to Edwards Ferry, 5 miles; Rockville to Mechanicsville, 10 miles; Mechaniesville to Brookville, 2 miles; Brookville to Unity, 6 miles; Unity to Cooks- ville, 9 miles; Unity to Frederick, 28 miles. Cooksville is on the Fred- erick and Baltimore turnpike, 24 miles from railroad; Cracklinton is 44 miles from Unity; Cracklinton is 44 miles from Seneca Bridge; Mid- diebrook is 5 miles from Cracklinton; Unity to Damascus, 9 miles; Barnesville to Clarksburg, 9 miles; Barnesville to Clopper Mill, 14 miles; Gaithersburg to Clopper Mill, 5 miles; Mechanicsville to Sandy Spring, 3 miles; Mechanicsville to Washington, through Leesborough, 17 miles. The river road is very long and broken to Darnestown, after yiu leave the aqueduct. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General Page 200 200 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. tOFIAP. ~kkt Munn~ BRANCH, Mn., September 7, 186210.15 a. m. General R. B. MARCY: I think I ought to be over at Mechanicsville. It is more central than this, and the right of our lines wants fixing up. I ought to be con- nected with that point by telegraph. Can you order the telegraph extended from Rockville to Mechanicsville? It can be done in two days, and will be of great service. I can then go there, and by that time Averells brigade, and Tidballs and Gibsons batteries ought to be there to continue and support my line as far as Cooksville, on Baltimore and Frederick turnpike. From the time the rebels I judge they are massing in large force, or have abandoned their original design. All reports agree that Baltimore is their destination. Please let me know if the general agrees to my idea of change of position, and whether I can get the other forces named. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. Munn~ BRANCH, Mn., September 7, 186211.30 a. m. General H. B. MARCY: An Englishman, taken by our pickets at Clarksburg, states he isjust through Leesburg, yesterday, and crossed the river about 8 miles from Leesburg, with Longstreets division, which turned up the river on the tow-path, between river and canal. Had a good deal of artillery and many wagons. Was told that ~ division had moved on ahead of Longstreet. Stated the rebel soldiers to be badly cared for, many of them without shoes. I have sent the man, with two others, to the Provost-Marshal-General. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. Munn~ BRANCH, Mn., September 7, 1862. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: Clarksburg is still in possession of my pickets. The firing last night was on the Potomac, higher up. A man who came into Clarksburg, from Point of Rocks, states that the rebels have there 5,000 cavalry and 35,000 men, and are going to Baltimore, by way of Damascus, Clarksburg, and Cooksville. The rebels say they intend to clear us out here as they go along. I have ordered colonel of First New York to send a squadron to report to First Cavalry, to assist in scouting the country to Damas- cus and Cooksville. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General. Munn~ BRANCH, Mn., September 7, 18622.30 p. m. General H. H. MARCY: Dispatch of 2.15 p. m. received. I anticiL)ated some delay in the regi. ~ movements on Mechanicsville, and sent another squadron to that point this morning. Have picketed Cooksville, and just heard fro Page 201 dRAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ~ETC.UNION. ~oI there that all was quiet. Paroled prisoners say the rebels are moving on the road to Frederick, and are tearing up the rails on the road as they go. I hear that night before last the rebels had 50,000 men atDranesville. This body may be kept there, to cross in this direction after we get en- gaged elsewhere. I will have them watched. The enemy have posses- sion of Sugar Loaf Mountain, and have a signal station there. All quiet throughout my line up to 10 oclock this morning. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, September 7, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Commanding, & c.: I have just seen General Pleasontons dispatch of 2.30. Until ~e can get better advices about the numbers of the enemy at Dranesville, I think we must be very caQtious about stripping too much the forts on the Virginia side. It may be the enemys object to draw oft~ the mass of our forces and then attempt to attack from the Virginia side of the Po- tomac. Think of this. I will see you as soon as I can. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. MUDDY BRANCH, MD., September 7, 18626.40 p. m. General H. B. MARCY: Have just received the report of Colonel Farnsworth, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, of his occupation of Poolesville to-day. He drove the rebels, some 60 in number, from the town, capturing 3. One was badly wounded, and this man he paroled. The two others I sent to the Provost-Marshal- General. They belong to the Fifth Virginia Cavalry, Colonel iRosser. The most of the rebel cavalry went to Barnesville yesterday. A colored man reported to Colonel Farnsworth that he went to Barnesville yester- day, to carry ladies, who wanted to see the rebels. They told the ladies they were going to Frederick, and from thence to Baltimore. The rebel train finished crossing the river at Conrads Ferry this morning, and passed in the direction of Frederick. This is prQbably the end of all that are coming over. Colonel Farnsworth has done very well, and shown good judgment. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 7, 18628.20 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding It being suggested that some of your cavalry have no carbines, I call your attention to the fact that there are 2,000 and upward, with accouter- ments and ammunition, ready for issue at the Washington ArsenaL P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War Page 202 202 OPEflATIONS~IN N.-VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP3XXXL ROCKYILLE, MD., September 7, 1862. General R. B. MA]~cY: All quiet in front this morning. I would respectfully request that I may be re-enforced, in readiness to advance upon the communications of the enemy when it is deemed proper that I should do so. E. V. SUMNER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Wa8kington, September 7, 1862. Maj. Gen. S. P. HErNTZELMAN, Commanding Third Corps, Fort L~jon: Maj. Gen. FITz JOHN PORTER, Commanding Fifth Corps, Fort Corcoran: Brig. Gen. J. P. SLOUGH, Alexandria: General McClellan has been informed that the rebels intend making a raid to-night on Alexandria. Little reliance is placed on the informa- tion, but it is nevertheless suggested that it may be well, as a matter of precaution, to have your pickets, & c., more than usually on the alert. By command: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS, No. 4. f Washington, September 7, 1862. I. Brig. Gen. D. P. Woodbury is assigned to the command of all the forts beyond the Eastern Branch, north of the Potomac. During the absence of the major-general commanding from Washing- ton, the immediate command of the defenses of the capital is assigned to Major-General Banks, who, while exercising said command, will be relieved temporarily from the command of his corps. II. Brig. Gen. S. D. Sturgis is temporarily relieved from duty with Porters corps, and ordered to report to General Buruside. * * * * * * * VIII. Col. George D. Ruggles, additional aide-de-camp, having re- ported to these headquarters, in compliance with instructions from the General-in-Chief, is announced as attached to the staff of the general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. THIRD CORPS, ARMY OF VIRGINIA, No. 1. Leesborough, Md., September 7, 1862. In conformity with Special Orders, No. 3, dated Headquarters Wash- ington, September 6, 1862, the undersigned assumes command of the Third Corps of the Army of Virginia. Until farther orders, the follow- ing-named officers are announced as members of the staff: Maj. Joseph Dickinson, assistant adjutant-general; Capts. William II. Lawrence, William L. Candler, and A. Moore, aides de-camp; Lient. Col. Fred Page 203 CnA1. XXXT.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 203 Myers, chief of quartermasters department; Lieut. Col. J. M. Sanderson, chief of commissary department; Maj. ID. C. Houston, chief engineer; Maj. D. Tilison, chief of artillery and ordnance; Surg. ID. L. Magruder, chief of medical department. They will report at headquarters without delay. JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General, Commanding Third Oorp8. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, AS4tember 7, 1862. Brig. Gen. ANDREW PORTER: GENERAL: You are assigned to duty in Pennsylvania to organize volunteers, and will report to Governor Curtin, at Harrisburg. By order of Major-General Halleck: J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Indorsements.] DEAR MARCY: Here is the order from General Halleck. Please show it to the general, for any emendations he may think best. Your friend, A.P. SEPTEMBER 7, 1862. I would respectfully suggest to General H[alleck] that it would be well to place General Porter in command of the troops now being raised in Penn8ylvania, and to intrust to his charge the defense of Harrisburg and its approaches. I have fully explained to him the situation of affairs, and, in a general way, my intentions. He will do all that can be done to resist the advance of the enemy. I would also suggest that one of Pecks batteries and at least a squadron of good cavalry be placed under his orders. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., ~ptember 7, 18622 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL: The following particulars have just come to hand. What can be done for the protection of our border I CHAMBERSBURG, 6th. ANDREW G. CURTIN: Received full particulars concerning invasion of Maryland. Rebels arrived at Fred- erick City to-day at 11 oclock, consisting of cavalry, 350; 19 pieces of cannoni howitzer (6-pounder), 610-pounder rifled cannon, and 12 ordinary pieces. Whole force seen amounted to 3,500. Were shoeless, ii nclad, taking possession of all stores having shoes, army goods, or other supplies, paying for the same Confederate scrip. An- nounced their destination Baltimore. Crossed at Nolands Ford. Jackson told an in- timate friend of mine, living at Poolesville, he designed crossing into Pennsylvania, through Adams, York, and Lancaster, to Philadelphia. I believe he designs to in- vade Cumberland Valley, to procure supplies. Large numbers of persons came up on train to-night from Hagerstown. A. G. CURTIX. (Copy for Hon. E. M. Stanton. Page 204 204 OPERATIOI4S IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washinqton, D. C., September 7, 1862. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: Your telegram of this date has been placed in the haiids of the Gen- eral-in-Chief for such action as the exigency in bis opinion may require. The attention of the military authorities is clearly directed to the move- ments of the enemy, and every effort will be made to overcome him. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, September 7, 1862. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, Pa.: GOVERNOR: Your dispatch has been received. I have no forces at my disposal with which to re-enforce any point. I have instructed Gent eral White to defend himself to the last extremity. No forces have al)peared in the neighborhood of Martinsburg, except a small force of about 200, a few of whom were killed and a few taken prisoners. As to the number of troops that have arrived at Frederick there are con- Ilicting reports. Several reports say there are 30,000. The last report from flarpers Ferry states that the forces that appeared at the Point of Rocks had recrossed to Virginia, and that General Hill was fortify- ing himself at a point 5 miles from Berlin, on the opposite side of the river. I have sent out to ascertain, and shall be able to inform you in the course of the morning if the rumors are true. I do not doubt but that a rebel force has crossed, and is in the neighborhood of Frederick, but how large it is impossible to say from reports received. What they have done at Washington, or intend to do, I am unable to say. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HARRISBURG, September 7, 18625 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Our information is that Jackson occupies Frederick in force, and is preparing to move north. We are organizing militia and arming to meet him. I suggest that, if possible, you send some artillery to this valley, and stop battery which will be here from Chambersburg at 7 oclock this evening, en route for Baltimore. A. G. CURTIN, Governor. WAR DEPARTMENT, September 7, 18627.30 p. in. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: You are authorized to detain the battery mentioned in your telegram just received. I will immediately consult Generals Halleck and McClel- lan in respect to sending you more artillery and troops. It is now more than probable the enemy will be struck long before they can reach Har- risburg. EDWiN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 205 CHAP. XXXI.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 205 BALTIMORE, Mm, September 7, 18627.30 a. in. Maj. Gen- H. W. HALLECK: Colonel Dennis, at Gettysburg, communicates the following informa- tion, from undoubted authority: Brig. Gen. B. [T.] Johnson, with 5,000 infantry, came into Frederick about 12 m. yesterday. General Jackson follo~ved with 25,000 at 2.30 p. m. Three batteries of artillery only were seen. Johnsons brigade encamped a mile north of the city; his troops much~jaded. He said he would be there only one day; then for Pennsylvania or Baltimore. General Bragg was advancing up the Shenandoah Valley for Pennsyl- vania, with 40,000 troops. Colonel Dennis informant said, when he asked where the cavalry was, the reply was that they would be heard from in Pennsylvania. John- son came into Frederick over Georgetown Bridge, 3 miles south of Fred- erick. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. MARTINSBURG, VA.; September 7, 18628 a. m. Major-General WOOL: Five hundred rebel cavalry attacked my outposts this morning. It may be the advance of a larger force. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURG, VA., September 7, 186210 a. m. Major-General WOOL: My outposts are attacked. I do not yet know whether the attack is formidable or not. Will advise you as soon as I know. You may rely on your orders being executed, and if you have frequent reports from me, you must not think we are excited, though our troops are all raw. I shall obey the order to fight, though with no hope of support. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- Ge~ieral. MARTINSBTJRG, VA., September 7, 186211 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL: No reliable news. The enemy (one division) is in front of Berlin. My impression is that it is a foraging party covering left flank of their army, which has crossed, and is still crossing, into Maryland, below Point of Rocks. Three brigades are marching on you, so I was informed several days ago. It may tnrn out true. A long range of caml)-fires was seen in your direction this morning. I will send up to the observatory to look out for dust, and I will inform you. D. ~. MILES. I send you the above copy of a dispatch from Colonel Miles, Harpers Ferry. His position will not be attacked. I respectfully suggest that he support this post with a re-enforcement of four regiments of infantry and two batteries. I have but three 6-pounder guns. JULIUS WHIW, Brigadier- General. i3Same to Halleck. Page 206 206 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL MARTINSBTJRG, TA., September 7, 18624 p.m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: I have the honor to report that the enemy (400 cavalry) who attacked my outposts have been defeated and driven back to Winchester, with the loss of about 50 prisoners, horses, and arms, now in our possession. Our loss, 2 killed and 10 woundedCaptain Grosvenor and Lieutenant Logan, of the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry. The loss of the enemy greatly exceeds ours, but not accurately known. The Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, Colonel Voss, behaved in a manner to maintain the honor of the State from which they hail. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier.General. MARTINSBURG, VA., September 7, 18624 p. m. Major-General WOOL: The prisoners we have report themselves as the advance of a column which came through Manassas Gap and reached Winchester yesterday. You will estimate this information at its value. I only add that it is supported by other channels, mostly rebel. The force here is, of course, insufficient to meet successfully any considerable body. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURG, VA., September 7,18625 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WooL, Baltin~ore, 3fd.: After examining and cross-questioning different prisoners, they all agree that they are the advance of a column which left Leesburg three days ago for Winchester, to march thence in this direction, to support the column already in the vicinity of Frederick. They will, doubtless, be in this vicinity to-morrow, if the statement is true. I may say it corresponds with the statement of a man sent to me from Leesburg by Captain Means, before 1 left Harpers Ferry, who stated that a heavy column passed from there in the direction of Winchester Wednesday. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 7, 1862430 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: There are no arms at Pikesville, and very few in store herenot more than enough for one regiment, if as many. I will inquire and let you know. JOHN E. WOOL, Major. General. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 7, 18626.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have trains here sufficient to carry to Harrisburg 3,000 troops. On application, I have ordered two regiments to remain at Harrisbur Page 207 Cnir. XXXI 1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 until further orders. Shall I retain the train here, or let it go to liar risburg I Answer immediately. I telegraphed General ilalleck on this subject, but have received no answer. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, ~S4te~nber 7, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: Regiments not required by you for defeu~e of railroads should be sent here. Every new man here in the forts will supply an older soldier for the field. All the available troops are now in motion. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. BALTIMORE, Mn., S~ptember 7, 18627.30 p. m. Presideiit LINCOLN: The rebels, with 400 cavalry, attacked the pickets at Martinsburg, and were defeated, with the loss of 50 prisoners, horses and arms. Loss on our side, 2 killed and 10 wounded, including a captain and a lieutenant. The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded had not yet been ascer- tained. JOHN E. WOOL, Major. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 7, 1862. Major-General WooL, Baltimore: What about Harpers Ferry? Do you know anything about it? How certain is your information about Bragg being in the valley of the Shen- andoah? A. LINCOLN. GENERAL WOOLS HEADQUARTERS, Baltimore, Md., September 7, 1862--8.05 p. ni. President LINCOLN: Your dispatch received. General Hill is menacing Harpers Ferry, but with what force is not stated. I think Harpers Ferry will be de. fended. Bragg is reported to be advancing through the valley of Shen- andoah with 40,000 menit is said for Pennsylvania.* More than 30,000 men were reported in and near Frederick yesterday, with three batteries, and more coining, and numbers of cavalry not stated and not included in the above estimate. Rebels proclaimed that they were going either to Philadelphia or Baltimore. All my information is second.hand. I have no doubt that the rebels have a large force in and about Frederick. They were much in want of supplies. This force was commanded by Stonewall Jackson and Johnson. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. * For further correspondence in reference to Braggs supposed movements in Vir- ginia, see dispatches of Boyle, Buell, i~m~i Macola, in Series I, Vol. XVI, Part II Page 208 208 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL SEPTEMBER 7, 1S62~-9.15 p. m. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore: Your telegram this evening has been received, and the General-in- Chief informs me that you have already received directions in respect to the Harrisburg train. I hope your officers and men are animated by your own gallant spirit, and that we shall have neither flights nor sur- render in your command. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARRISBURG, PA., September 7, 1862. E. M. STANTON: The guard upon the Northern Central Railroad consists of but two companies. Not at all sufficient to protect the bridges in Maryland. If an attempt should be made to destroy them, will you increase the force~l J. D. CAMERON, Vice-President. HANOVER, PA., via BALTIMORE, Hon. E. M. STANTON: September 7, 1862. Enemy, eight regiments infantry and one cavalry, with twelve pieces of artillery, encamped 2 miles north of Frederick yesterday evening. Scouts have been north 15 miles and east toward Baltimore 20 miles. They say their destination is Harrisburg, more probably Baltimore. I most earnestly solicit orders to join the army in such position as you may think fit, and leave for myself, aide, and horse to proceed to Baltimore by the next train. I will await orders here, having been compelled to leave Frederick to avoid capture. JAMES COOPER, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, September 7, 1862. Brigadier.General COOPER, Hanover, Pa.: Your telegram received this evening has been referred to the Gen. eral-in.Chief~, who thinks that you may be able to render more service at Harrisburg than elsewhere at the present moment. You are, therefore, directed to proceed to Harrisburg and report to Governor Curtin for any duty that may be required in organizing the militia. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretarq of War. BALTIMORE, Mn., 86211.30 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, September 7 1 Secretary of War: Our inventory of rolling-stock being completed east of the Monocacy, we are able to estimate that, beginning after four hours notice, we can take 28,000 men in one convoy of train from Washington to Baltimore or Elysville or vicinity, and can repeat the operation in from eighteen t Page 209 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 209 twenty-four hours, if desired, and provided no serious accident should in- terfere. This number of men would be reduced in proportion to the num- ber of horses required to be taken, and if latter should be 2,060 it would reduce number of men we could carry to 20,000. We can take fifty or sixty pieces of artillery, with their usual accompaniment, besides the men named, if required. It will only be necessary that the troops should load and unload the cars quickly, and in such numbers to each car as we designate. This movement can be extended by using Government cars at Alexandria and those roads north of Baltimore as may be re- quired. Elysville is mentioned because it is the point on our line, 21 miles from Baltimore and 44 from Washington, by rail, at which our forces are still posted for protection of two important iron bridges over Patapsco. We are not yet advised of any injury whatever to our roads. It will, therefore, be a purely military question as to what extent beyond Elysville the road should be used. We have no advices thus far as of any west of Frederick County. We received a dispatch at 10 last night from Berlin, 5 miles east of Harpers Ferry, via Wheeling and Pitts- burgh, to effect that our troops at Point of Rocks had fallen back to that place as a precaution. This shows that at the hour of sending the dis- patch in question the line was free, except near the Monocacy, where wires were cut yesterday morningat 10 oclock. J. W. GARRETT, President Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. PHILADELPHIA, PA., September 7,186212 m. (Received 2.40 a. in., September 8.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Would it not be well to send at least one brigade of good disciplined troops to Harrisburg, and then concentrate new forces from all the East- ern States at that point as rapidly as possible until an army sufficient in number to effect good results is organized there ~ This army to be commanded by some reliable and competent officer from the Army of the Potomac, and to act in concert with McClellan. The latest news in Baltimore this evening indicates the intention of enemy to visit Penn- sylvania within the next few days. THOMAS A. SCOTT. NEAR ROCKYILLE MD , ., September 8, 186211.20 a. in. (Received 12 in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Everything quiet in front by last accounts. Franklin has reached Muddy Branch. Sykes, Sumner, and Banks near here. Biirnside and Hooker move to-day to Brookville. Pleasonton will advance his cav- alry to Barnesville, Hyattstown, Damascus, IJuity, & c. We have cav- alry ~t Poolesville. No enemy at Edwards Ferry; I think they are beyond the Monocacy. Couch will remaiii at Offutts until I ascertain whether there is any large force at 1)ranesville, which I hope to know any moment. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. 14 U RYOI~ XIX~ PT I Page 210 210 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. WASHINGTON, ID. C., September ~, 18621.05 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, Md.: General Marcy informed me this morning that Bayards cavalry had scouted to iDranesville, and no enemy there. It is reported that they have gone to Leesbnrg to cross. If so, it seems to me that a sufficient number of your forces to meet the enemy should move rapidly forward, leaving a reserve in reach of you and Washington at the same time. If General Marcy has not telegraphed, he has probably sent an aide with dispatches. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WASHINGTON, ID. C., September 8, 1862S p.m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, Md.: How does it look now? A. LINCOLN. ROCKVILLE, MD., September 8, 18625.30 p.m. His Excellency President LINCOLN: In reply to your dispatch of 5 oclock this p. in., I have the honor to state that General Pleasonton, at 4.20 p. in., reports from T)awsonville that his advance, within 3 miles of Poolesville, was fired on by artillery, the shells passing over them; also, that infantry were moving out of the woods in force at that point, He also heard the command under Colonel Farnsworth, near Po olesrille, was fired on by artillery, but heard no report from Colonel Farnsworth. I do not think, from the tenor of General Pleasontons dispatches, that any great force was seen, but he guards every approach carefully, and will keep me fully advised. I will inform you of everything of importance that occurs. Burnside will be at Mechanicsville to-night. While I am writing, another dispatch from General Pleasonton, dated 5.15 p. in., says Colonel Farnsworth has occupied Poolesville after a skirmish, in which the rebels brought up one gun. Ours soon silenced it, and they retreated toward Barnesville, where there is some forcenot over 800. Six prisoners were taken, and some others wounded. Two squadrons are in pursuit toward Barnes- yule, and have killed some of the rebels. Our loss only 2 or 3 wonnded. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS, Roclcville, Md., September 8, 18626.15 p. m. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: You will see my dispatch in reply to the Presidents, which embraces all the news I have been able to get from the front up to this time. I am inclined to think that if the enemy are in very great force on this side of the Potomac, they are above the Monocacy. Have you~ any. thing from Colonel Miles to-day ~? If it is practicable, I would recom- mend that Colonel Miles be required to report at least twice every day; this is highly important in Connection with our own operations in this direction. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General Page 211 CRAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 211 WASHINGTON, September 8, 18628.42 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville: Nothing from Colonel Miles or. elsewhere about position of enemy since I telegraphed this morning. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. CAMP NEAR ROCKYILLE, MD., September 8, 18628 p. m. (Received 9.40 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Nothing new to report, except that I have heard from the cavalry at Mechanicsvilie, who report railroad destroyed by rebels from Monrovia to the Monacacy, and that a force of about 7,000 men reached Freder- ick yesterday, they being a part of Jacksons force. The cavalry skir- mishes to-day near the Monocacy were quite successful, so far as heard from. I have ordered reconnaissances in all directions to-morrow, in- cluding one well to the north and northwest. I think that we are now in position to prevent any attack in force on Baltimore, while we cover Washington on this side. I am rather weak in cavalry on the right, but am hourly expecting more of Averells brigade. We are prepared to attack anything that crosses the Potomac this side of the Monocacy. I am by no means satisfied yet that the enemy has crossed the river in any large force. Our information is still entirely too indefinite to justify definite action. I am ready to push in any direction, and hope very soon to have the supplies and transportation so regulated that we can safely move farther from Washington, and clear Maryland of the rebels. The time occupied in ascertaining their position, strength, and intentions will enable me to place the army in fair condition. I do not feel sure that there is no force in front of Washington. I think I can now answer for it that they shall not cross the river this side of Monocacy, and that they shall not take Baltimore without defeating this army. I am also in position to hasten to the assistance of Washington, if necessary. As soon as I find out where to strike, I will be after them without an hours delay. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Rockville, Md, September 8, 186210 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: After full consideration, I have determined to advance the whole force to-morrow; the right wing to Goshen and Cracklinton, holding guard over bridges and other advance points by strong advance guard; the cavalry well out on the right and front; the center near Middlebrook; Franklin to Darnestown, holding the line of the guards by advance guards; Couch to guard, leaving a brigade at Offatts Cross-Roa& ; and Sykes division will move to-morrow, according to the information I re- ceive, probably toward Gaithersburg, but wherever the latest informa- tion may show the enemy to be in greatest force. GEO. 13, McCLELLAN, 211 ajor- General Page 212 212 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, .kockvitle, AT d., September 8, 18628.50 p. m. (Received 11.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: Herewith I send you a telegram addressed to General Wool. Please read it. i~ you approve, have it put in cipher, and forward HEADQUARTERS, Bocknille, Md., September 8, 18628.50 p. m. Maj. Gen. JoHI~ E. WooL, Commanding Department of Baltimore: This army is now massed between Rockyille aud Brookville, in position to move on the enemy, should he attempt to go toward Baltimore from any point above here, to advance into Pennsylvania, or attack Washington. Onr information regarding the enemys movements is very vague and conflicting. If the enemy has crossed the Poto- mac in large force, it seems to me of great importance that we should co-operate fnlly, and it will give me great pleasure to have the benefit of any suggestion that your ex- tended military experience may dictate. I shall, from time to time, keep you advised of all that occurs with me, and I shall feel under great obligations if you will give me snch information as yon may deem of importance to me. I should he especially gratified to learn everything that you can get regarding the movements of the enemy in the direction of Harpers Ferry and above. My scouts have been to-day within 3 miles of Barnesville, and met a small force of the enemy, but encountered no large bodies of troops. They have also been to nenr Ridgeville, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, where they saw nothing of the enemy. I shall, to-morrow, send them across the railroad toward Liberty and New London, by which I hope to discover whether the~r are advancing from Frederick toward Baltimore. I shall also push out recon- naissances in various other directions. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Akjor- General. Maj. Gen. FITZ JOHN PORTER, WASHINGTON, September 8, 1862. Fort Corcoran: Three thousand sand-bags were recently sent to General Whipple, for forts then under his command. More can be supplied if required. Guns are wanted for works on this side. Three 24-pounder siege guns are said to be disposable, having been replaced at Fort Barnard by others. By order of General McClellan, I directed them to be sent to Fort Pennsylvania. A number of rifled 30-pounders have been released from Fort IRamsay; I desire to have them on this 8ide. J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, September 8, 1862. General FITZ JOHN PORTER: I wish two rifled siege guns sent to Fort Alexander; two to Fort Lin- coln; one to Fort Mahan, and one to Fort Meigs. The three 24-pound- ers should be sent to Fort Pennsylvania. I do not think any guns should be put in Fort Runyon, when there is far more need of guns on this side, and this I understood to be General McClellans view. J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier- General and Chief Bngtneer. ~ee Wo~1 ~o McClellan, September 9, p. ~31 Page 213 CHAP. XXXII CORllESPOl~DENCE, ETCITNION. 213 BROOKYILLE, Mm, September 8, 18626.30 p. in. Maj. Gen. H W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief, and Major-General MCCLELLAN: I have established my headquarters at thi.s place to-night. Two divisions of General iRenos corps will be in position to-night at Crack- linton and Goshen with instructions to hold Seneca Bridge. A regi- ment of cavalry is at Unity, with instructions to picket Triadelphia and Cooksville, and I have ordered a squadron to cross the pike and railroad and move up in the direction of Franklinville and Liberty. I am inclined to think we are bearing too much to the left, but will be able to speak more positively to-morrow. Our men are in better con- dition than when they left Washington. Hookers corps is improving. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Washington, September 8, 1862. Maj. Gen. FITz JOHN PORTER, Port Corcoran: General McClellan wishes me to ascertain from you and General Bay- ard what you know about Dranesville. He will probably remain at Rockville to-day to get definite information on this point. Can you send this to General Bayard ~ I have only two orderlies, and they are done up. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. SEPTEMBER 8, 1862. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, 1?ockville: General Woodburys pontoon train is ready, except horses, which lie cannot get for two or three days. What orders for the train i An offi- cer will call here in the morning to get them. Where is Bufords cav- alry brigade ~ Nobody can find it or General Buford. What news ~ RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. HEADQUARTERS, Washington, September 8, 1862. Lieut. Col. A. S. WEBB, Headquarters Fifth Corps, Port Corcoran: I have just heard of the stray brigade of Buford on the Washington and Alexandria road, 2 miles this side of the latter place. General Ba- fords headquarters are said to be on the left-hand side of the road, but it is also said he himself leaves for Itockville. Send anything for (len- eral Porter here. RICHD B. IRWIN, captain, Aide-dc-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen Page 214 214 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CEAl. XXXI SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 229. Washington, S~ptember 8, 186g. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. J. K. F. Mansfield, U. S. Volunteers, is relieved from duty in the Army of Virginia, and will report in person to Major-Gen. eral McClellan. V. Brig. Gen. Andrew Porter, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to duty in Pennsylvania to organize volunteers. He will report in person to Governor Curtin, at Harrisburg, Pa. By command of Major.General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant.Gen~ral. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, No. 1. September 8, 1862. I. In compliance with Paragraph VII of Special Orders, No. 4, of the 7th instant, from the headquarters of Major-General McClellan, the un- dersigned hereby assumes the immediate command of the defenses of the capital during the absence of the general commanding from Wash- ington. * * * * * * * III. With the permission of Major.General McClellan, Capt. Richard B. Irwin, aide-de-camp to the general commanding, will act as assistant adjutant-general of this command. N. P. BANKS, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., September 8, 18625.20 p. m. (Received 7.55 p. in.) Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: If it be possible to send a brigade of disciplined troops to this point, as a nucleus for an army, it ought to be done immediately, and then con- centrate new regiments here until a large army is organized, to stop movements of enemy into Pennsylvania. The people need something to restore confidence, in order to get them to step forward in support of the Government. If no organization is made, they will leave en masse as the enemy approaches. From this point a column could be readily transferred t& any other place where their service might be required. Can anything be done to meet this view of the case? Please answer. THOMAS A. SCOTT. BALTIMORE, MD., September 8, 186210 p. m. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have been informed by Mr. Webster, residing in Westminster, that the rebel army is south and east of a line drawn around north of Fred- erick, and east in the direction of Westminster. He says the rebel army is 75,000 strong. He also says that General Burnside is between the rebel army and Baltimore. The person I sent out last evenin Page 215 CHAP. XXXi.] 215 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. brought me back word that the rebel army was generally estimated from 30,000 to 50,000 men. I will probably know before morning the position of General Buruside. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- Generjzl. WASHINGTON, September 8, 1862. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Esq.: Your telegram respecting military operations has been referred to the General-in-Chief, for such orders as he deems proper. EDWiN M. STANTON. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., September 8, 1862. Major-General WooL, Baltimore: You should not suffer troops bound for Washington to be stopped at Harrisburg. Your authority to Governor Curtin to stop regiments yesterday should be recalled. Every regiment stopped there is so much thrown away. The President desires you to see that no troops bound for Washington are stopped while the road remains open. The true defense of Harrisburg, he thinks, is to strengthen the column that is now marching on the enemy. EDWIN ~. STANTON, Secretary of War. BALTIMORE, September 8, 18626.35 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I assented to the retention of two regiments at Harrisburg, until fur. ther orders, upon the earnest appeal of the Governor, which, I frankly acknowledge, was an error. It was done when I was very much en- gaged, and the order has been revoked and the regiments ordered for ward immediately. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., September 8, 18626.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Can you send to Carlisle to-night seven hundred carbines, slings, and ammunition, with accouterments, to equip the cavalry now there, to be used for scouting purposes in the Cumberland Valley? Competent officers will command them. The citizens will furnish horses for the purpose without purchasing them. Please answer. A. G. CURTIN. WASHINGTON, September 8, 18629 p. m. Governor CURTIN: Orders have been given for forwarding immediately, as soon as they can be packed, slings and ammunition referred to in your telegram Page 216 216 OPK1~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL just received. The cavalry at Carlisle have already been furnished with sabers and pistols, which are all that are needed for scouting, but since you request carbines, they shall be furnished at once. EDWIN N. STANTON. 9 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Rockville, Md., September 8, 18629 p. m. His Excellency Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: My information about the enemy comes from unreliable sources, and it is vague and conflicting. This army is in position to move against the rebels, whatever their plan may be. If they intend an advance toward your State, I shall act with all possible vigor. I can scarcely believe that such is their purpose. I shall use every effort to ascertain the actual state of the facts, and trust that you will do whatever you can in the same direction, and that you will keep me advised of whatever you may learn. It would be well for you to push your investigations toward Frederick as far as possible. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HARRISBURG, PA., September 8, 186210.10 p. in. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: I shall to-morrow, unless otherwise advised by you, call out the militia of the State, and mass as many men as possible here, to operate as may be best. Would it not be well to leave the two New York regiments here as a nucleus of the organization? It is now a matter of great doubt whether communication with Washington will not be interrupted before. any more forces from here could be passed through. In case communi- cation should be interrupted, what shall be done with forces reaching here and Philadelphia from the East? Shall they be massed in Penn- sylvania? Answer explicitly. I shall be ready to perform any duty that may be required of me in such an emergency. A. G. CURTIN. Hon. E. M. STANTON: HARRISBURG, September 8, 1862. You can rely on the following dispatch, just received by me, which I repeat to you: CHAMBERSBIJRG, September 711.30 p. m. Governor CURTIN: Telegraph operator at Hagerstown reports he is reliably informed that 5,000 rebel troops are marching on Hagerstown. He was about to leave, but has agreed to stay until he hears farther. The train has been ordered away, and will be here shortly. I am going out to post the remnant of Murphys regiment on picket duty on leading avenues approaching town. If any movement is to be made to defend the valley, no time should be lost. There is not a soldier in Hagerstown, and they have no pickets. This may magnify reports greatly, buthe rebels are doubtless advised that Hagers-. town is entirely undefended, and will pretty certainly move on it. I will return in an hour or two, and if anything important transpires will advise you. A. K. McCLURE. I have other dispatches from Colonel McClure, received earlier this evening, which corroborate one above repeated. He and others wh Page 217 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENGE, ETC.UNION. 217 have been sent there to procure information have no doubt that the rebels are in large force at and in Frederick. I suggest that the battery returned here from York, by your order, be sent forward, together with the troops we have at this poin,t, and that an officer be sent at once to take command of the line of the State. We could at least hold the rebels in check until the forces which you have now in motion reach the Upper Potomac, which must soon become the theater of active hostilities. A. 0. CURTIN. HARRISBURG, PA., & ~ptember 8,1862. Hon. E. 1~I. STANTON, Secretary of War: We have here about five regiments of green troops, which we are about forwarding for the defense of the border. Without large additional force this effort on our part will be wholly unavailable. Any number of regi- ments that can be spared from Washington and Baltimore could be ad. vantageously employed. I would suggest that General Andrew Porter, being now here, be placed in command of all the troops about being sent forward for this place. A. G. CURTIX, Governor. WASHINGTON, B. C., September 8, 18624.30 p. m. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: Your telegram just received. We have no troops in Washington or Baltimore to send to Harrisburg, it being supposed that the best defense of Harrisburg is to strengthen the force now marching against the enemy under General McClellan. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAsHINGTON, September 8, 1862. Brig. Gen. JAMES COOPER, Hanover: Since my communication to you, information has reached the Depart- ment that there are at Cumberland 1,500 paroled prisoners of our own troops, released by the rebels and forwarded there. It is important they should be taken command of and moved to Columbus, Ohio, and there placed in camp until exchanged. You will, therefore, proceed immnedi- ately to Cumberland and take charge of them, and transport them to Columbus, where you will receive specific instructions. Transporta- tion will be ordered. You will make the necessary requisitions for subsistence, and prevent straggling and desertion. Please acknQwl- edge this order. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HANOVER, PA., September 8, 1862. SECRETARY OF WAR: Order this moment received. I leave for Cumberland, via Harrisburg, by next train. Information received here that the rebels are at Sir Johns Run, moving toward Cu.mberland. JAMES COOPER, Brigadier-Gezwral Page 218 218 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXL PHILADELPHIA, & ~ptember 8, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in.Chief: I have just received dispatch from commanding officer in Kanawha Valley that his position has been turned, and rebels are trying to cross into Ohio. I would suggest that he be immediately withdrawn to Point Pleasant, in Ohio. JNO. POPE, Major-General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 8, 1862. Col. J. A. J. LIGHTBURN, Commanding Officer, Kanawha Valley, Va.: It is reported that the enemy is likely to compel you to fall back to the Ohio River. If such a movement should be necessary, take position at Point Pleasant. H. W. HALLECK, Generalin- Chief. MARTINSEURG, VA., September 8, 186210.04 a. in. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General.in.Chief: I was assigned to duty in the Army of Virginia by the Secretary of War. Was ordered to proceed from Winchester to Harpers Ferry by order of the General.in.Chief. Reported my arrival at the latter place to him, and was ordered by General Wool to turn over my command to Col. Dixon S. Miles, and repair to this post. I respectfully submit that, without the order of the General-in.Chief, I cannot be detached from the Army of Virginia, and ask to be relieved of the command here and assigned to duty in the front. JULIUS WHITE, Bri~qadier. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 8, 1862. Brig. Gen. JuLius WHITE, Martinsburg, Va.: In moving from Winchester to Harpers Ferry you come under the orders of General Wool. It is not proper at present to change the generals dispositions. Probably some different assignment will be given to you as early as possible. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. CAMP NEAR ROCKVILLE, MD., September 9,18629.30 a. in. (Received 10.30 a. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief: Rebel scouts last night at Lisbon. In the cavalry skirmish at Pooles- ville yesterday the rebels lost 1 captain and 15 men killed and wounded, besides 6 prisoners. The Third Indiana Cavalry (one squadron) did the work very handsomely on our side. Last reports are that the rebel Page 219 C!IAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCTJNION 219 were not in sight near Poolesvile and Hyattstown. Our cavalry are pushing forward in all directions, while the army will, at least, occupy the line of the Seneca to-day. Pleasontons report of last night that there were 100,000 rebels on this side of the river was derived from the notorious Captain White; it is not fully reliable. We shall know bet- ter to-day. I will keep you fully informed. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. BOCKYILLE, Mn., September 9, 18623.30 p. m. (Received 5.15 p. in.) General H. W. HALLEOX, General-in-Chief: At noon to-day all the troops ordered forward were in motion for their new positions. The latest information from the front indicates the enemy in large force near Frederick. Our cavalry have taken several prison- ers and the standard of a rebel cavalry regiment to-day. From the parties now out I hope to know soon something definite as to the strength, position, and intention of the enemy. They talk of going to Gettysburg and York. 1 do not think they have yet left Frederick in any force. I am anxious for the prompt arrival of the rest of my cavalry from Fort Monroe. When the prisoners get in I shall learn something of them. Thus far my cavalry have gained the advantage. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. ROCKYILLE, Mn., September 9, 1862730 p m. (Received 8 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: From such information as can be obtained, Jackson and Longstreet have about 110,000 men of all arms near Frederick, with some cavalry this side. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Rockville, Md., September 9, 18628.15 p. in. (Received 10.30 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: On my return to camp, I learn from General Pleasonton that Colonel Farnsworth arrived at Barnesville at 3 p. in., after a sharp skirmish, in which we captured 14 prisoners, of whom 2 commissioned officers and 4 others were wounded; 1 of wounded a captain. Many more killed and wounded; numbers not yet known. Farnsworth run them some 2 miles toward Frederick, and thinks rebels in force near llyattstown. The Seventh, Ninth, and Tenth Virginia Cavalry were engaged to-day against Farnsworth. We have regained and now hold the Sugar Loaf Mountain. I do not yet know details. Will hold Barnesville with a strong cavalry force. Am informed that Jacksons headquarters are to-day at New Market; Stuarts at Urbana. I am pretty well prepared for anything except overwhelming numbers. Want more cavalry. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Page 220 220 OPflRATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. ~XXL ROCKVILLE, MD., September 9, 18629 p. in. (Received 3.30 a. in., 10th.) Major-General WooL, Baltimore: My troops to-night occupy the following positions, viz: Burnside at Cracklinton; Sumners and Banks corps at Middlebrook; Franklin at iDarnestown; Couch at the mouth of Seneca Creek, and Sigel is on the other side of the Potomac, opposite Chain Bridge. Our cavalry had a smart skirmish with three regiments of rebel cavalry to-day, taking quite a number of prisoners, and killing and wounding others, among theni 2 commissioned officers. Jacksons headquarters were at New Market to-day, and Stuarts at Urbana. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Wa8hington, D. C., September 9, 186211 a. in. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, Md.: It is represented here that the wagons of regiments and brigades are unemployed, while requisitions on post quartermaster for transportation of supplies to your army cannot be filled. This evil should be remedied by Colonel Ingalls. H W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. ROCKVILLE, MD., September 9, 186211.45 a. in. - (Received 3.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief, U. S. Army: Your telegram of 11 a. in. received. You have been entirely mis- informed. Every train belonging to this army is actively employed in bringing up supplies, except a very small number actually necessary to move camp. Some of the corps cannot even move their necessary bag- gage until their wagons return. Colonel Ingalls has given the subject his full attention, and you may rest assured that there neither has been nor will be any delay that can be prevented by these headquarters. The great trouble will be in the confusion necessarily existing at Wa~ih- ington under present circumstances. This, I doubt not, will be speedily remedied by General Meigs and Colonel Bucker. My cavalry are for- aging on the country, giving receipts for what they take. I shall fol- low that plan as far as circumstances render l)0584)le, both for forage and rations. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. ARLINGTON, September 9, 1862. General MCCLELLAN, Roekville: The troops for the defense of the works intrusted to me are nearly all in position, and if all do their parts you need fear nothing for this por- tion of the line. General Heintzelman takes, to-morrow, command of all defenses on this side of the Potomac. F. J. PORTER, Major-Gener~zL Page 221 CRAP. ~.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 221 BOCKYILLE, September 9, 18628.40 p m. Maj. Gen. FITz JOHN PORTER, Arlington: Dispatch received. Our cavalry have had some handsome affairs to- day, fully maintaining the morale they gained on the Peninsula. We have i-egained Barnesville and Sugar Loaf Mountain. The army is to- night well posted to act in any direction the moment the enemy de- velops his movements. I am now in condition to watch him closely, and lie will find it hard to escape me if he commits a blunder. We shall do our best, and I think that will suffice. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. LEESBOROJYGH, Mm, September 9, 186211.45 a. m. Maj. Gen. fi. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The following dispatch from Colonel Devin just received. General Burnside desires me to say that he will order scouts to be pushed out, and ascertain if the enemys pickets are at Lisbon, and also to go off in the direction of Franklinville, Unionville, and Liberty: BROOKvILLE, MD., September 9, 18628 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: All quiet as yet this a. m My pickets are in reserve at Triadeiphia and Unity, and scout the country around Cooksville and the turnpike. The enemy is said to have pickets at Lisbon. Captain Beardsley stopped a citizen with a pass dated at Fred- erick yesterday, and signed by Brigadier-General Lee. It is reported that the enemy is making for Ellicotts Mill, and that they are receiving re-enforcements from Mary- land. I give this merely as reports current among citizens about CooksvilLe. I will send another dispatch as soon as I hear from the front. THOS. C. DEVIN, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry. JKO. G. PARKE, - Chief of Staff. LEESBOROUGH, Mn., & ptember 9, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HAIJLECK, General-in-Chief: The following dispatch just received. We have broken up camp and will move on to the neighborhood of Goshen and Cracklinton: BROOKYILLE, September 9, [1862]. General BURNSJ.DE: I h~d already sent dispatch before the arrival of your message. All is quiet as yet. My pickets a reserve 6 miles in front of this place, and scout up to Cooks yule, and are workin~e pike at that place. As far as I can learn, all is quiet this side ot the railroad, on which the enemy have pickets. My scouts were yesterday to the northeast end west of Cooksville for some miles, but met none of the enemy. We are also watching the front to Lisbon, where the enemy are said to have pickets. I am expecting a report from the front every minute, which I will send as soon as re- ceived. Respectfully, THOS. C - T)EVIN, Colonel. P. S.Have just received report from extreme front. Up to 3 p. m. all quiet. Scouted to Lisbon and Damascus last night. No enemy there. We have pickets now on National road. THOS. C. DEVIN, Colonel. A. L BURNSIDE, Major- General Page 222 222 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. BROORVILLE, MD., Maj. Gen. H. ~. HALLECK, September 9, 1862-.--7 p. m. General-in-Chief, and General MCCLELLAN: The following dispatches were received while on the march to-day: HEADQUARTERS ADVANCE RESERVE, Li8bon Road Junction, ux mile8 8outh of Cook8ville, September 97 a. m. Col. T. C. DEVIN: Sin: Left picket at Cooksville, with whom General Wools cavalry communicated last night at 9.30 oclock, to ascertain whether General Burnsides advance were at Cooksville. They consisted of a company of the First Pennsylvania. Twelve men were seen at Poplar Springs this morning. It is reported an advance of 200 will be made to Cooksville this morning. Communicated with Lieutenant Patterson this morning. So far all quiet. Please send rations and forage. Have thought it ex- pedient to stop the passing of citizens to our rear and return this morning. Sur- rounded with rebels in disguise. We trust no one will endeavor to reconnoiter to Lisbon this p. m. Respectfully, W. E. BEARDSLEY, Captain Troop B. Respectfully forwarded. THOS. C. DEVIN, Colond. TRINITY, MD., September 9. Colonel DEVIN: Sin: I sent a patrol party, under command of Sergeant Real, last evening about 6 oclock. They patrolled the road between this place and Damascus, and arrived at said place at 11 oclock. They learned that the rebels had a force at Kemptown, and their pickets werewithin 2 miles of Damascus. They have pickets on the railroad and pike to the right of Damascus. The rebels are in force at Woodbine, on the turnpike, at that place. General Wools pickets killed 3 rebel pickets night before last. They are also at Clarksburg, on the Georgetown road, to the left of Trinity. There is said to be a large force at Harristown [Hyattstown], 6 miles to the left of Damascus. There is a man .at Trinity who has been in the habit of visiting the rebels ever since they came into that section of country. I think he had better be sent to headquarters. I sent out a patrol party this a. m. at 3 oclock to scout the roads to Damascus. They have not yet returned. Very respectfully, F. A. PATTERSON, Fir8t Lieutenant, f2ommanding Troop. A. E. BUR~4 SIDE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE & OMAC, Camp near Rockville, Septembe~, 186210 p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Brookviile: O~eneral Pleasonton telegraphs that Jacksons headquarters are to-day at New Market, and J. E. B. Stuarts at Urbana. This indicates that enemy intends moving on Baltimore, and it is now more necessary than ever that you should promptly execute the instructions of to-day, to drive in the enemys pickets to Ridgeville, and beyond if possible, by cavalry and section of horse artillery. Push your reconnaissance north of railroad as far as possible toward Westminster; also by Ridgeville road from Damascus to IRidgeville. Should the enemy make any demou- stration toward Baltimore, let his column get well iu motion, and then attack him vigorously on the flank, sending immediate information to the major-general commanding, who will support you with all his avail Page 223 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223 able force. Our cavalry has been quite successful to.day. It has re- possessed itself of Barnesville and Sugar Loaf Monutain, and has taken 18 prisoners, 3 of them officers. Two cavalry regiments will join us to- morrow, and will be sent to strengthen our right. Report more fre- quentlyevery hour when near the telegraph stationwhat is the result of the reconnaissance toward Ridgeville. Allow no one to pass by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad or the National road without your knowl- edge. Come to your telegraph station at once. General McClellan will go to the office here immediately upon your doing so, and will talk with you over the wires. By command of Major-General McClellan: R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS RIGHT WING, Brookville, Md., S~ptember 9, 186210.15 p. m. Major-General HALLECK and Major-General MCCLELLAN: The following dispatcli is just received from Colonel Devin: GOSHEN, 9thS p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: Lieutenant Easton, of this regiment, left camp at 10 a. m. to-day, with 4 men, to ob- tain information in the neighborhood of Damascus. He hasjust returned, and reports having met and driven in their pickets, 24 miles from Hyattstown, on the road to Damascus. He wounded 1 of their men, and chased the others into the reserve at the foot of the hill leading to Hyattstown. The reserve seemed to number about a coml)any. The people there represented the enemy to be in force, with cavalry at Ridgeville, on the National road, and that their pickets are 2 miles this side of that place, on the road from Damascus. If such is the case, Captain Cutts and Captain Van Buren, who went out on that road at 4 p. in., will meet them. The last I heard from Captain Cutts he was at Damascus, and was about starting for Ridgeville. I send another troop to Damascus to cover him. Very respectfully, THOS. C. DEVIN. A. E. BURNSIDE. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST DIV., SECOND ARMY CORPS, Camp near Rockvifle, Md., September 9, 1862. Brig. Gen. ALPHEUS S. WILLIAMS, Commanding Second Corp8: GENERAL: I deem it my duty to submit to you, and to urge upon your attention, the following report of the condition of the First Brigade, First Division, of the army corps under Major-General Banks: Since the engagement at Cedar Mountain, on the 9th of August, and in which my brigade was well nigh destroyed, the service required ht~s been of such a character as to threaten, in its reduced and shattered con- dition, the very existence of its organization. No time or opportunity has been allowed, from the necessities of the service, either to rest the men or to reorganize the companies and regi- ments, which have lost field and staff and company officers, both com- missioned and non-commissioned, and I am now in command of a brigade which, consisting nominally of four regiments, numbers at this moment, in the rank drawn np in the advance line to meet the enemy, but 629 effective men. Every day adds to the report of the medical officers of these regi- ments, and they unanimously show that it is owing to the nature of th Page 224 224 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI service to which we have lately been subjected, the great exposure they have suffered, the deprivation of proper food, and the want of absolute rest that the present condition has been induced. Depression of spirit adds greatly to the induction of camp diseases, and this exists to a cer- tain extent among the men. Most of our marches have been made during the heat of the day, and we arrived in camp almost invariably at night, when the men, worn out, throw themselves upon the ground to seek rest, regardless of the dews and indifferent to hunger. There are many men belonging to the command who cannot, from ab. solute want of muscular tone, follow in its marches. Men never known to fall behind, upon previous marches, do so now. Three of the regi. ments are without one field or staff officer; company officers are few, and non-commissioned officers either wholly or partially wanting in all the companies. The organization, the very existence, of these regiments trembles in the balance. Captains, inexperienced in the service, are commanding the Twenty-eighth New York, the Fifth Connecticut, and the Forty-sixth Pennsylvania. Corporals are commanding companies, reduced almost to their proper guards. The men feel the want of their officers, and there is nothing which keeps them together but the common interest and association, and I have no hesitation in saying that unless some opportunity is afforded these regiments to rest and to reorganize, their regimental character will cease to exist. My men nt,ed rest, and I respectfully urge upon the general command- ing that he will use hi~ influence, after the present exigency, to send this brigade to some point where, while they may be useful, they at the same time will have an opportunity to reorganize and recruit both the health and spirits as well as meli. * * * * * * * Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. W. CRAWFORD. [Iudorsejnents.] HEADQUARTERS BANKS Coups, & neca Bun, & ptember 9, 1862. Respectfully forwarded. The main difficulty with this brigade is the loss of field and staff officers in three regiments. Most of the company officers were also disabled in the action at Cedar 1~Iountain. Three regi- ments are commanded by captains. If recruitg could be had, and the vacancies in officers promptly filled, the partial demoralization would be effectually removed. A. S. WILLIAMS, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, & ptember 10, 1862. Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant General for the consideration of the General-in-Chief. It is recommended that measures be taken to cause the vacancies among the commissioned officers to be speedily filled. As much opportunity will be afforded the brigade to rest as circum- stances will permit. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, .4ssi8tant Adjutant- ~eneral Page 225 CHAP. XXXLJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 225 CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Rockville, Md., September 9, 1862. The general commanding has observed the frequent absence from their commands while in camp, and from their columns on the march, of su- perior officers. These laxities must be remedied. Inattention and care- lessness on the part of those high in rank has been one fertile source of the straggling and want of discipline which now obtain in the vari- ous corps. The safety of the country depends upon what this army shall now achieve; it cannot be successful if its soldiers are one-half skulkino to the rear, while the brunt of battle is borne by the other half, and its officers inattentive to observe and correct the grossest evils which are daily occurring under their eyeA. The general commanding entreats all general officers to lend every energy to the eradication of the military vice of straggling. He feels assured that their united determination can break np the practice in a single week. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, September 9, 186~. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of Washington: GENERAL: Requisitions for provisions and supplies for the portion of your army north of this city are received, and the quartermaster of this depot, Colonel Rucker, has not the means of transporting them to the front, as requested. This service should be performed by the sup- ply trains of the army. Its chief quartermaster has been ordered to turn over surplus wagons to the depot quartermaster, who has iot as yet received them. Colonel Clary reports that he brought in from Centreville not less than 37000 wagons. You had at Harrisons Landing 2,700. General Bnrnside had a number. I believe there are with the army nuder your command not less than 6,000 wagons, drawn by 30,000 animals, and yet such is the confusion that it is impossible this morning to send out at once the supplies called for by your requisition. I think that while stationary here, no regiment should be allowed to have in its camp more than two or three wagons, which could haul out its daily rations from the depot; that the rest should be unloaded and parked about this city for use as supply trains, and for issue to regiments ordered to march, none of which should be allowed in all more than one wagon to 80 men, in- cluding officers. The extra wagons, now filled with officers baggage, should be emp- tied, and the officers compelled to move without this unnecessary load. None but the stringent authority of the commander of the army can carry out this reform, and, until it is done, the army will not be a iuov- able one, and will not be effective. Colonel Ingalls, your chief quarter- master, armed with full power from you, could, if here, in a few days reduce to order this confusion, which is now wasting the Treasury and the means of transportation collected here. The wagons and teams hay- ing once been issued to your army, I have not the power to organize them, as orders from me in relation to them interfere with your authority. 1~ R RYOL XIX, PT II Page 226 22~ OPERATIONS IN N. \TA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL I beg that you will at once give such orders to Colonel Ingalls as will enable him to reform this abuse. No one is more able or more zealous. It requires full authority, as corps and division commanders, as well as subordinate officers, dislike to reduce their means of wagou transpor- tation. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster. General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Septenzber 10, 1862. Respectfully referred to Colonel Ingalls, who is (lesired to take such measures as will insure a compliance with the wishes of the Quarter- master.General, as presented iu this communication. By order of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant. General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 155. ~ Camp near Rockville, Md., iSeptember 9, 1862. The mischievous practice of straggling, it is observed, is agaiu insti- tuted in this army, and this, in many cases, without the least apparent concern on the par.t of commanding officers of either the higher or lower grade. Straggling is habitually associated with cowardice, marauding, and theft. The straggler must now be taught that he leaves the ranks without authority and skulks at the severest risk, even that of death. Commanders of regiments will see that the rolls of every company are called before the regiment starts on the march, at every halt, and at the close of the march. The absentees at these roll.calls will be reported to the regimental adjutant. Regimental adjutants will retain lists of absentees thus reported to them, and if, upon the stragglers joining his company, he have not a good excuse for his absence, the word strag- gler, and the date, and time absent, will be set against the soldiers name on the next muster-roll. The judges of the validity of this excuse will be the three senior officers of the regiment, in session together. Loss of pay for the time absent, as a matter of course, follows this entry; but colonels of regiments will see that stragglers are, besides, brought to punishment. Field officers have now, by law, all the power that a regimental court-martial had for the punishment of offenders. In the absence of a field officer, an acting field officer may exercise these powers. If the proffered excuse exhibit laxity or neglect of duty on the part of company commanders, their names will be reported for dis- inissal, or they may be brought to trial. On the march, corps commanders should allow rest at proper inter. vals, that the troops may have an opportunity to adjust their equip- ments, obey the calls of nature, & c. Except at these rests, no man should be allowed to leave the ranks, save for some extraordinary cause, when the company commanders will give the soldier a written ticket of permission to leave the ranks. These tickets should be prepared in blank beforehand. Every soldier thus leaving the ranks will leave his musket, haversack, and knapsack with the company, which the captain will have carried by soldiers of the company till the soldier returns. If the soldier be sick and fall out, his sickness will be no plea in his favo Page 227 CHAP. XXXI.I COR1~ESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 227 for escape from the peiialties o~ straggling unless furnished with a writ- ten certificate of his sickness from the surgeon or assistant surgeon of the regiment. Sick men should in all cases be properly taken charge of by the medical officers of the regiments, that they may not be accused of straggling if really sick or wounded. Each division should have a strong rear guard, behind which no straggler of whatever corps or regiment should be permitted to re- main, unless the stragglers company is to the rear. It the division have any cavalry with them, it will scour the country on the flanks; if not, then infantry flankers of the rear guards must l)erform that office. The bayonet must be used to insure obedience to these orders~ The inspector-general of corps should be especially active, to see that these instructions are executed. Provost-marshals will send cavalry, where they have it, on all roads to their rear to hurry up all stragglers. No straggler should be per- mitted to halt until he has joined his proper regiment. On all forks of roads, corps commanders should leave mounted men, if they have them~ ifnot,footmen to remain during the passageoftl~e corps, and come up with the rear guard, to show which way the trool)s jhave marched. The provost-marshals of corps or divisions should take measures to occupy every dwelling in the vicinity of the line of march of the troops, and prevent any intrusion on the part of officers and men. All damages to fences or crops, all marauding and trespassing will be prevented as far as possible. Marauders will be at once brought to trial by (livision commanders, and the sentence of death will be exe- cuted, if awarded by the court, with promptness and as publicly ~ possible. Any officer of any regiment or corps whatever is authorized to order forward or arrest any straggler of any regiment in the army. Resist- ance to such exercise of authority will be at the risk of death. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, September 9,1862. Major-General BANKS, Commanding: GENERAL: Major-General Heintzelman is placed by the President in command of all the troops for the defense of Washingtomi south oC the Potomac,* subject, however, to your general orders. Gemieral Ileiutzel- man should be directed to establish his lines of battle, as well as the defenses of the forts, and to see that lines of communication be kept open in their rear, so that any point of attack can be readily re-enforced. Great care should be taken to establish outposts and pickets. Another l)oint which requires immediate attention on both sides of the river is the picking up and organizing of stragglers. Special (letails should be made for this purpose. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. By Special Orders, No. 231, Par. III, Head quarters of the Army, of same date Page 228 228 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [OSAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 9, 1862. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Port Lyon: By direction of the President, you will at once assume command of all the troops for the defense of Washington south of the Potomac, nuder the general order of the major-general commanding the Defenses of Washington. The General-in-Chief desires that you will establish your lines of battle in addition to the defenses of the works, and will see that lines of communication are kept open in their rear, so that any point of attack may be readily re-enforced. Great care should be taken to estab- lish the outposts, and to have the picket service efficiently performed. Please acknowledge. By command of Major-General Banks: ItICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. ROCKVILLE, Mn., September 9, 186210 p. m. (Received 3.15 a. in., 10th.) Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKS: I have heard to-day that lleiutzelmau has been placed in command of everything on the Virginia side of the river. I prefer not to have this done, unless there is some good reason for it. Please communicate with me before carrying this order mm effect, giving me your reasons for die proposed change. Please recollect that I am still responsible for the defense of Washington, and that no change can be made in my arrange- ments without consulting me. I wish to give you the fullest latitude, but at the same time I desire to be consulted as to any changes made in important commands. Please reply immediately. Suspend the opera- tion of the order until you hear from me. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 9, 186210.10 a m. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: Your telegram of last night in regard to your proposed military operations was referred to the General-in-Chief for such directions as he might dcciii proper under the circumstances. He will communicate with you. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARRISBURG PA Hon. E. N. STANTON: , ., September 9, 1862. Please give me authority to use the regular cavalry and their officers at Carlisle Barracks, amid such of the Anderson Troop as I may need, for immediate service in the valley. Instruct Captain Hastings to con- form to my orders. I want to send tIme force under charge of Captain Palmer, Captain Hastings to provide subsistence and other supplies that they may need. I want to use them as scouts south of the State line as desired by General McClellan. Answer. A. G. CURTIN Page 229 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 229 WASHINGTON, D. C., September 9, 186211.15 a. in. Governor CIJETIN: Your telegram respecting the troops in Carlisle Barracks will be an- swered by the General-in-Chief, to whom you will apply for instructions in relation to military operations. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARRISBURG, September 9, 186210.30 a. in. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, Aid.: Report from scouts at Hagerstown this morning says no rebels nearer than Middletown, 5 miles from Frederick. He has positive information, however, that Lieutenant-Colonel Brum [Burks~J, of Stuarts cavalry, intends making a raid upon Hagerstown. Nothing from Martinsburg or Harpers Ferry. Road in both directions unprotected. We expect to reopen telegraph office at Hagerstown this evening, and will send about 400 cavalry from Carlisle to Hagerstown to-night, and vatrol all that region to secure information. A. G. CURTIN. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 9, 1862. Governor CURTIN, ~arrisburg, Pa.: It is not deemed advisable to assemble troops at so many different ])oints. For the present we want all troops sent here. We can protect Harrisburg better from this vicinity than to weaken our force by leaving them there. Should our communications be cut off, of course, we cannot get them here. Under these circumstances, I cannot consent to the re- tention of troops at Harrisburg, nor can we spare any to send there at l)resent. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief HARRISBURG, PA., September 9, 1862. (Received 4 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: I have just received your message. You evidently do not under- stand my wishes on the subject. I want the regular cavalry, now at Carlisle garrison, and a portion of the Anderson Troop, in camp at that l)lace, placed under my orders, to perform patrol duty at or near flagers- town, to ascertain movements of the enemy, if any are made, and to (luiet the alarm now existing among the l)eople of the valley and along the border of the State. All the military organizations ready for the field have been sent forward to Washington. The force at Carlisle, which I want placed under my direction, is not performing any service. Can I have them 0? 1 know they can be made serviceable. Answer. A. G. CURTIN Page 230 230 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAr. XXXL HARRISBURG, PA., & ptember 9, 18624 p.111. Major-General HALLECK, General-in. Chief: Please define the duties which General Andrew Porter is expected to l)Crform. lie is here without definite instructions, and feels somewhat embarrassed. 1 hope you will give him ample power to organize and direct the movement of forces in this region. lie then can be of great service to me. Please answer. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Hon. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Baltimore, September 9, 1862. Governor of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, Pa.: SIR: Send the New York regiments forward to Washington. I have iio companies to send from here to Cockeysville and vicinity. If you have a Peunsylvaiiia regiment, you are authorized to use it for the de- fense of the Northern Central Railroad. If you have not a regiment to spare, send as many companies as you can. We have just received muster-rolls for three companies of Colonel Wisters regiment. General Burnside is within a few miles of the rebel pickets with a large force. General McClellan is also marching on. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., September 9, 1862. Major-General MCCLFLLAN, A~oekville: The operator at Hanover just telegraphs that the main body of the enemy, believed to be over 100,000 strong, are within a few miles of Frederick and north of the city. The enemys cavalry have not been nearer than 18 miles to Hanover, and no rebels have appeared at Get- tysburg or in that direction. A deserter from the rebel army just in at Hanover confirms above statement, which was gathered from Unioti refugees. Telegraph offices reopened at Hagerstown this evening. Operator reports all quiet, and no evidence of enemy in that region. THOMAS A. SCOTT. PHILADELPHIA, PA., September 9, 1862. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: SIR: By instructions, I have the honor to communicate to you the opinions of the citizens of Philadelphia on the exposed condition of their city, and their utter want of means of defense. With the hope that their views may receive your immediate attention, I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, THOMAS WEBSTER, Vice- Chairman. At a meeting of Citizens Bounty Fund Committee, the following l)reanll)le and resolutions were unanimously adopted: Whereas the rapid advances of rebel armies into Western Maryland, and toward the border of Pennsylvania, renders it absolutely necessary that something should b Page 231 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 231 immediately done to secure the safety of the city of Philadelphia; and whereas experi- ence has proved that, however large the United States armies on the Potomac should be, it may be possible for rebel armies to elude them and keep on their way north- ward; and whereas the city of Philadelphia is at this time without defenses of any kind: Therefore, 1?csolred, That application be immediately made to the Governor of the Common- wealth and the President of the United States for all the aid in troops, arms, and ma- terial of war which can be spared for the defense of Philadelphia; and that as the State has been stripped of organized troops to carry on the active operations of the campaign in Virginia, and the State government must, of course, now apply most of its energies to the prevention of a rebel invasion of the Susquehanna and Cumberland Valleys, where the danger is imminent, it is to the National Government especially that we now look for succor. Re~iolrcd, That the President be requested to detail for service in Philadelphia sonic experienced general of the army, for the purpose of providing defenses, organizing and disciplining the militia, and otherwise securing our city against a sudden assault. ALEXANDER HENRY, Chairman. THOMAS WEBSTER, Vice-Chairman. S. A. MERCER, Treaeurer. LEWIS BLODGETT, Secretary. WASHINGTON, September 9, 1862. THOMAS WEBSTER, Philadelphia: Your dispatch received and referred to General Halleck, who must control the questions presented. While I am not surprised at your anxiety, I do not think you are in any danger. If half our troops were in Philadelphia, the enemy could take it, because he would not fear to leave the other half in his rear; but with the whole of them here, he dares not leave them in his rear. A. LINCOLN. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH CORPS, Camp near Baltimore, September 9, 1862. Major-General McCLELLAN: Received your dispatch two hours since.* Waiting for my scouts. They have come in. Major-Generals Lee and Stonewall Jackson, Brig- adier-General Lee and [Maj. Gen. D. H.] Hill are at Frederick, with a large force; some say the whole rebel army. They are in a positiomi to take one of three or four roads, to Chambersburg, to Hagerstown, to Gettysburg, to Baltimore, or to recross the Potomac. General Buruside is not far from Cooksville, and Si gel is reported to be near Poolesville. Where the rebel army is going is more than I can conjecture. It ap- pears to be concentrated, andit is thought it intends moving to-day. Our forces [ought~ to be within reach of each other, or they may be beaten in detail. The rebels, it is said in knowing circles, are not com- ing to. Baltimore. If they do, I will prevent their occupying the city of Baltimore longer than to pass through it. I would urge concentration of the forces of Burnside and Sigel. The l)osition of the rebel army was communicated to me by General (YIDonnell, of this city, who passed ~hrough their camps. The rebels had destroyed the Monocacy Bridge yesterday morning at 10 oclock, and also the Monrovia l)epot. JOHN E. WOOL, ]Ilajor- General. See McClellan to Halleck, 8.50 p. in., September 8, p. 212 Page 232 232 OPERATIONS IN N. VA, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [OH~P. XXfl. IEtJTAW HOUSE, Baltimore, Md., & ~ptember 9, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have telegraphed Major-General McClellan that the rebel forces are in Frederick and the neighborhood, commanded by Major-Generals Lee and Stonewall Jackson, and Brigadier-Generals Lee and Hill. They have a large force, and some say the whole rebel army. I received this information from General ODonnell, of this city. He says that he is a Union man, and was in Frederick yesterday. He said that General Lees headquarters were about 5 miles from Frederick. The rebel portion is near the junction of four roads, which run to Chambersburg, ilagerstown, Baltimore, and Gettysburg. Major-General Burnside was near Cooks- yule, and Sigel near Poolesville. The Moitocacy Bridge and Monrovia Depot were destroyed by the rebels yesterday. JORK E. WOOL, Major- General. BALTIMORE, MD., September 9, 18627.50 p. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General McClellan says, by telegraph, that he learned from a gentle- man just from Ellicotts Mills that the rebel l)ickets were seen at Wood- bine. They had stopped the cars, and were coining on the turnl)ike and railroad to destroy iailroad at the junction of Baltimore an(l Ohio Rail- road at Relay House. Can you not send me at least one light battery to aid in protecting that bridge ~? I have only two light batteries that can be moved, not having horses for one recently organized in this city. The two batteries capable of being used are stationed on other roads. I, therefore, request at least one light battery, and at least two squad- rons of cavalry. We ought to have the regiment I sent you the 13th of August. We have at least four roads by which the rebels could enter Baltimore. I am surprised that I have not heard from General Burnside. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. Major-General HALLECK, GAULEY, VA., September 9, 1862. General-in- Chief: It is evidently necessary that I should fall back to enable tue to l)ro- tect my flanks and rear, and, with the generals permission, I will take l)OsitiOn on the Kanawha River, 12 miles above Charleston, embracitig the Kanawha Salt-Works, and at the head of low-water navigation. in this event, what should I do with the bridge and such buildings as I cannot get away I J. A. J. LIGHTBURN, tYolonel, Commanding District of the Kanawha. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington 6ity, September 10, 186210.15 a. in. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, Md.: How does it look now I A. LINCOLN Page 233 Caie. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 233 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Rockville, Md., & pternber 10, 1862noon. (Received 1.45 p. in.) His Excellency the PRESIDENT: In reply to your dispatch of this morning, 1 have the honor to state that. General Pleasonton, at Baruesville, reports that a movement of the enemy last night is said to have been made across the Potomac from this side to the other side. We shall know the truth of this rumor soon. Pleasonton is watching all the fords as high as Conrads Ferry and has pickets out to the month of the Monocacy. lIe has sent out this morning to occupy Sugar Loaf Mountain, from which a large ex- tent of country can be seen in all directions. General Burnside had his scouts out last night to IRidgeville, and within 3 miles of New Mar- ket. No enemy seen, with the exception of a few l)ickets. They were told that Stuarts cavalry, 5,000 in number, occupied Ne~v Market, and that the main rebel force, under Jackson, was still at Frederick. Burn- side has sent a strong reconnaissance to-day to the mountain l)~55 at Ridgeville. I propose, if the information I have received proxTes reliable regarding the natural strength of this position, to occupy it with a suf- ficient force to resist an advance of the enemy in that directioii. 1 have scouts and Spies pushed forward in every direction, and shall soomi be in possession of reliable and definite information. The statements I get regarding the enemys forces that have crossed to this side range fi-oni SO 000 to V~0,O00. I am perfectly certain that none of the enemys troops have crossed the Potomac within the last twenty-fonr hours belo~v the mouth (1 the IVlomiocacy. I was informed last night by General Pleas- oidon that his information rendered it probable that Jacksons forces lIa(l advanced to Ne~v Market, with Stuarts cavalry at Urbana. In view of this, I ordered the army forward this morning to the line along the high iidge fromn Ridgeville through Damascus, Clarksbnrg, & e., but the in torniation subsequently obtained from General Burn sides seoti t s, that the iiiass of the emmemy was still at Frederick, induced me to sums- l)elld the movement of the right wing until I could verify the truth of the reports by means of Burn sides reconnaissance iim force to-(lay. My extreme left a(lvanced to Poolesville this morning. The work of meom- gammizing and refitting is progressing very satisfactorily under the new heads of staff departments. Dispatch this instant received from Gemmeral Pleasonton, dated Barnes- ville, 10.30 a. in., says: My scouts occupy the ferry at the mouth of the Monocacy. They found no enemy, except a few pickets on the other side of the Monocacy, at Licksville. Ahout 3 miles from that stream it was reported there was a force of 6,000 men. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., & ptember 10, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville,3iId.: Scouts report that the remainder of the Confederate Army, under Smith [I] and Robertson, were to cross tIme Potomac last night at Ed- wards Ferry and Monocacy. No reliable account of numbers. They themselves say about 40,000. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chie Page 234 234 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. fOHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Rockville, Aid., & pternber 10, 18621 2.30 p. m. Maj. (iCil. H. W. IIALLECK, (Received 2 ~. in.) General-in- Chief: For reply to your (lispatch of 10 a. In., l)lease see my dispatch of 12 ii. to the President, in rel)ly to his of to-day. It gives at length all the information 1 have that has not already been sent you. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., & ptember 10,1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, lid.: (Sent 4 ix in.) Three oood regiments have arrived from Suffolk. 1-lad they not better be united with some new regiments as a reserve brigade, near Tennally- town or some other point, instead of sending them immediately into the field ? H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief BROOKYILLE, MD., & ptember 10, 18628 p. in. (Received 8.50 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: General Buraside has an advance guard at Daniascus; 5,000 men at Goshen and Seneca Bridge; 4,000 at Cracklinton. hookers command is in the vicinity of Brookville. I cannot leant that there is any large force of the enemys infrmntry this side of the Monocacy. I think there is little indication of the enemys advancing either on Baltimore or York. I shall probably get positive information to-morrow. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. BROOJVlLL1~, 1~ID., & ptember 10, 186211.55 p. in. (Received September 11,12.10 a. in.) Major-General HALLECK: I have ordered a general advance to-morrow. Send me up all the troops you can spare. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Rock.ville, Aid., September 10, 18623.30 a. in. Major-General BANKS: The (hisposition of trool)s here to-day is such as to uncover Washing- ton slightly in the (lirection of Baltimore. Put both your troops and works on this side of the river in good condition for defense. By command of Major-General McClellan: H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff Page 235 CHAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.UNION. 235 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, Camp at Rockville, ]Jfd., September 10,1862. General S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, U. S. Army: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the letter of General Meigs to General McClellan, of the 9th instant, referred to me to-day from your office. It is true there exists much confusion in the trains belonging to the Army of Virginia, but none in the Army of the Potomac. Our wagons are but just being disembarked and coming up. Some 70 of General Sumners, for instance, arrived to-day. All the wagons of the old Army of the Potomac are in possession of officers of the quartermasters department, and will be present with their commands at the earliest moment. The whole number is not far from 2,400. Bnt I have tried in vain, so far, to learn the number and location of very many of the wagons with Banks, Burusides, Sigels, and McDowells corps. I have issued positive orders, by direction of the general commanding, to all (lilarterinasters to report the number of wagons, and how employed. Colonels Myers, Holabird, and some others have replied that they do not know, but will soon report in detail. Colonel Clary did not know how many he had, or rather how many were lost on the retreat. It does miot appear that the commander of the Army of Virginia ever knew how many wagons there were, nor what quartermasters were on duty. I have made constant attempts to ascertain by actual inspection, but as the trains are ~cattered, going and coming with supplies, I have failed to arrive at any satisfactory result. Before I left Washington it was ordered that all surplus wagons in the whole army should be turned in to the depot quartermaster. Many have actually been turned in, but the order has been evaded, to the I)ublic detriment. I have no knowledge of the number turned in, since Colonel Rucker has, so far, furnished me no information on that or other subjects. It is known that many regiments in the Arniy of Virginia have an unauthorized number of teams and quantity of baggage. I have, I re l)eat, exerted all my power, backed by the order of the general commanding, without complete snccess, though the supplies are really coming forward quite abundantly, and I hope soon to reduce the transportation to a uniform and efficient system. To compel the bring- ing about of this result at once, I respectfully ask that the general commanding will issue a most positive order again to all commanders that they shall have full reports made by their chief quartermasters to me of their means of transportation on hand, and the names of officers acting in the quartermasters department in their commands; and that the allowance of wagons to a regiment, to a brigade and division head- (itlarters, to a battery, and squadron shall not exceed that established for the Army of the Potomac. Let the commanders be held responsible, all(l arrested and tried for delay or (lisobedience. This information should be furnished as accurately and promptly as a field return of men. I desire that the order shall embrace every commander under the orders of the general commanding. In conclusion, I would further recommend that Lient. Col. C. G. Saw- telle, assistant quartermaster, now on duty in this army, be made the depot qnartermnaster for this army at Washington and Alexandria, leav- 11mg Colonel llueker and his general (lel)ot to lie under the exclusive con- tiol of the Quartermaster-General, for general purposes. This arrange. ment woIld prevent any conflict of duties, and would leave each depo Page 236 236 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., A~D PA. [CHAP. XX~. in a perfect condition to transact its own affairs efficiently and with full (lata which is not the case now, nor can it be, nuder the l)reseut system. Colonel Sawtelle has the officers, agents, laborers, & c., necessary, now in service, and all being directly subject to my orders, there would be, I am sure, more satisfaction to all parties than we feel now. I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-dc- Camp, Chief Quartermaster. [Indorsements.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 11, 1862. This letter of Lieutenant-Colonel Ingalls, chief quartermaster Army of the Potomac, is respectfully referred to Brigadier-General Meigs, as being a i-eply to his letter of September 9, 1862, on the subject of the transportation of the army. The topics of General Meigs letter will receive the attentive consid- eration of the general commanding. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Acknowledge receipt of this letter, and say that it seems to the Quar- termaster-General proper to put Lieutenant-Colonel Saw telle in charge of the service depot of the army of General McClellan, to take charge of all property belonging to or issued to that army. This will leave Colonel l1uck~r in charge of the general depot. The supplies, except of forage, to be4lrawn by requisition upon the general depot. Colonel Rucker or his subordinates receipting to the quartermaster t urnin g in trail sporta- lion should be reported by them to Colonel In galls. Colonel Ilucker will be instructed to inform Colonel Jugalls of the imum her of teams so turned in to him. M. C. MEIGS. HEADQUARTERS, Washington, September 10, 186211 a. m. (Received 11.30 a. in.) General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Roekville: An officer of General Bolilens staff, Sigels corps, who was killed on the Rappahannock, at Freemans Ford, has been sent under flag of truce for the body of the general. He reports that there is no enemy iii time vicinity of Fairfax, Centreville, Manassas Junction, or Warrenton Junc- tion, or at any intermediate point this side the Rappahannock. One cav- alry l)atrol of 50 men was all he met. Citizens say the entire army ha.s moved north. General Porters scouts reported, yesterday, the enemy in strong force between Broad Run and Leesburg. It seems most prob- able that the main body of the enemy is between Leesburg and the mountains. The marshal of the State of Maryland, McPhail, says he thinks the rebels are moving on Baltimore. He has no certain information. At ilagerstown all is quiet; no rebels there or at Martinsburg. We are putting everything in readiness here as fast and as far as possible. The order referred to in your dispatch of 3 a. in. was from the President. N. P. BANKS, Major-tftneral, Commanding Page 237 C~IAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 10, 186211 a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Rocicvilie, Md.: Your dispatch of last night received this morning. The order placing General Heintzelman in command of all troops for the defense of Wash- ington south of the Potomac, under my general orders, came from the President yesterday afternoon, through the General-in-Chief. I knew nothing of it until I received General ilallecks order. Under these cir- ciimstances 1 do not feel at liberty to suspend the order. It was car- ried into execution before receiving your dispatch. I beg to assure you that I should have made, and will make, 110 important change iii your arrangements without your concurrence. N. P. BANKS, Major- General. WASHINGTON, September 10, 18628.30 p. m. General MARCY, Chief of Staff, die., Rockville, Md.: My reference was to tile Catoctin Mountains. It seemed as if a strong force lay between Leesburg and the Catoctin. It is thought here, to- night, that a heavy force has crossed the river, and is in the rear of the Monocacy. It is not impossible that they mean to hold Northern Vir- ginia, in this way threatening Washington, Baltimore, Pennsylvania, and Ohio at the same moment. Please forward us the news. N. P. BANKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 10, 18(2l0 p. m. Maj.Gen.N. P. BANKS: Our pickets extend up to the month of the Monocacy. No force of tIme rebels has crossed this side of there within the past thirty-six hours. A force of 5,000 of the enemy is reported as having been to-day at a l)oint 3 miles beyond the Monocacy. The enemy is believed to be in heavy force in the neighborhood of Frederick. IL B. MARCY, Chief of AStU if. WASHINGTON, September 10, 1862. Major-General BANKS, Commanding, cti~c.: GENERAL: It is very important that General Slough should have adequate force at his command at Alexandria. I hope his forces will not he taken away, unless there is absolute necessity for it. He can open a school of instruction for his regiments, in addition to their police duty. Very respectfully, H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 238 238 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA, MD., AND PA. [CHAP.XXXL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE J~OTOMAC, Necr Rockville, 114., September 10, 1862. General MCCLELLAN, Brookville, 9114.: The following dispatches have been received since you left: BARNEsvILLE4.45 p. m. General R. B. MARCY: Your dispatches at 12 noon and 1.40 p. m. received. General Fiank liii and his corps arrived, and I submitted to him your directions. I made three attempts to-day to dis- lodge the rebels from the mountain, but they have a very strong position, and are in tbrce. As soon as Franklins corps was in position, I withdrew my attacking force. We lost 1 man, mortally wounded. I shall place my command l)ehin(l Franklin to- imight, and let them rest, which they are very ninch in need of, having been two or three days in the saddle, incessantly. I think the rebels ~vi1l make a strong stand at Sugar Loaf Mountain. General Franklin inclines to an opposite view, and I trust he is correct. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. BARNES vILLE4.45 p. in. General R. B. MARCY: Just heard from Monocacy. The enemy last night attempted to blow lip the aqueduct. The force at Sykesville came down from Frederick yesterday to effect this, and it is thought they will again attempt it to-night. The signal officer, who was a long time on Sugar Loaf Mountain and knows it well, says it is the best posit ion the rebels can get to make a stand, and he believes the rebels will defend it strongly. This is the best information I can g~t relative to the mountain position. Unless otherwise ordered, General Franklin will attack to-morrow. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. BARNESVILLE6 p. m. General R. B. MARCY: Captain Reno, First Cavalry, reports from Hyattstowu that the rebels fired on him with one piece of artillery, and that cavalry is now entering the town. He reports the enemy with cavalry, infantry, and artillery. I have directed him, if pressed, to fall back here. This looks like supporting their position on Sugar Loaf Mountaimi. A. PLEASONTON. Brigadier-General, Commanding. R. B. MARCY, Chief of StatJ. BROOKYILLE, [IVID.]11 .15 J). ilL (Received Washington, I). C., September 10, 1862.) General R. B. MARCY: Direct General Frankliii to remain at Barnesville to-morrow, and put himself in communication with General Sumner, at Cl arksburg. Direct him to carry Sugar Loaf to-morrow, if possible. If lie finds the enemy there in very strong force, let him await the result of Sumners advance on llyattstown, an(l communicate with inc at Clarksburg, when I will arrange to cut off the garrison of Sugar Loaf But time earlier we gain the Sugar Loaf the better. Direct Couch to remain where lie is, and watch all the fords in his vicinity. Let Pecks (livislon follow the same route as fast as it arrives. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General Page 239 CHAP. XX~I.I COR1~ESPONDLNCE, LTC.UNION. 239 I3LIOOKVILLE, September 10, 186211.30 P. Iii. Brig. U en. R. B. MARCY, J& ck~l1e General McClellau directs that you send orders to General Sumner to occupy Damascus and Clarksburg immediately after daylight to-morrow morning, with a strong advance guard at llyattstown. General Burn - sides command is ordered to carry New Market to-morrow. Tell Gen- eral Sumner to sen(I him all the assistance he may call for. A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. BROOKYILLE, [MD.], September 10, [1862]1l.30. General 11. B. MARCY: Direct General Sykes to move his division at an early hour to-morrow morning, so as to reach Clarksbirg by night, or as far in that directioll as he can move without unduly fatiguing his men. I wish to keel) them fresh. Headquarters will move at an early hour to-morrow, so as to reach the camp of Sykes by night. Endeavor to establish telegraphic communication between Clarksburg and the right and left to-morrow. Order the pontoon train, reserve ammunition, & c., to Clarksburg with the least possible delay. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. IROCKYILLE, September 10, 1862. General BuRNsIDE: Occupy Ilidgeville in force as soon as possible. The road by Damascus seems the best, although you may find it impracticable. A column also via CQoksville. No time is to be lost. I regard this movement as deci- sive,if successful. As soon as you move, send word to General Sumner, at Middlebrook, on the Clarksburg road where it crosses the Seneca. He will, in the mean time, be ordered from here to move to Clarksburg, as soon as he learns from you that you intend moving ou Ilidgeville, to l)lace one of his corps at Clarksburg, another at Damascus, so that your ~vhole force may hold Ilidgevihle, and be prepared to occupy or observe Frankliuville. I will, in that case, take care of Barnesyille and Pooles- yule, and move headquarters well out in your (lirection. It is of the first importance that I should be kept constantly advised of your movements and progress. Let me know now what you propose doing. Leave mounted orderlies at the telegraph station. Have the wire 1)tlSlIed on after you, and tell me now what I may expect. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, September 10, 1862. General Cox, Gommanding Kanawh a Division: GENERAL: Von will move with your command at once to Ridgeville, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, via Damascus. General Itodman will follow you, and I will follow with the rest of the corps. General Hookers corps will go to Poplar Springs, some 4 miles east, and Ge Page 240 ~4O OPE1~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CrIAP. XXXI. eral Sumner will proceed to Damascus as soon as you commence the movement. Send word to General Sumner as soon as you move; he is at Middlebrook, on the Clarksburg road, where it crosses the Seneca. There was no enemy at IRidgeville last night, but are said to be in con- siderable force at New Market. Send all your cavalry in front. It is important to reach Ridgeville to-night. I shall endeavor to be there with the whole corps, and shall certainly be able to get between Damas- ctis and Ridgeville, within supporting distance of you. When you reach Ilidgeville, place your artillery in commanding positions, and make your (lispositions to hold the place. Communicate any information concerii- ing the movements of the enemy, and report as soon as you reach Ridge- yule. I will send the First Maine Cavalry to report to you. You will also take Colonel Devin~s cavalry. General iRodman will take position a~t Damascus, and hold the road leading to New Market until General Sturgis division comes up, when he will proceed to join you. It is very important that this movement should be executed promptly. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. L. RENO, Major- General, Commanding Ninth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS KANAwHA DIVISION, Goshen Mills, [Mid.], September 10, 1862. General J. G. PARKE, Chief of Staff: Sin: The order countermanding the movement to iRidgeville, directed this morning, was received before my column had proceeded a mile on the road. I ordered forward the Thirtieth Ohio and a section of Mc- Mulhins battery to Damascus, replaced the battalion of infantry and section of artillery at Seneca Bridge, an~ put the remainder of my di- vision in camp as before. The First Maine Cavalry reported to Captain Williamson, chief of engineers, at Cracklinton, for a reconnaissance. I then communicated with General Sumner, and found Banks corps at Damascus, or very near it, before they halted; Sumners corps near Clarksburg. They intend to remain to-night at those places, as I under- stand. This would seem to make my regiment superfluous at Damas- cus, but I await orders before removing it. Sumners command had moved early this morning, as I learned, and were thus quite advanced before my order of movement or the countermanding order came to hand. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, .~. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, Brookville, Md., September 10, 1862. Major.General HOOKER, Commanding Third Army Corps: GENERAL: General Buruside directs that you put your corps iii motion in two columns, the first, with infantry, artillery, and a portion of the cavalry, to move from this place to Poplar Springs, on the old National road, and the second, consisting of the balance of your corps, with the wagons from this place, to Cooksville, on the same road. The main body of the two will then he concentrate(l and moved up withi Page 241 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241 easy supporting (listance of iRidgeville, where General Renos corps will be in position. Leaving strong guards at Poplar Springs and Cooks- yule, keep your cavalry well out to the north of the turnpike and rail. road, in the direction of Franklinville and Westminster. Please com- municate with the senior officer at Ridgeville if he shall have arrived at that point, which you can ascertain from your scouts. Please report at these headquarters as soon as your columns are under way. Have your adjutant-general or aide report here, and reliable guides will be furnished you. After communicating with General Mc. Clellan this morning, I will decide where my headquarters for the night will be, and inform you. By command of Major.General Burnside: JNO. G. PARKE, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS, [September] 10, [1862]9 a. m. (Received 10.50 a. in.) General MCCLELL AS, Rockville: General Griffin, from Uptons Hill, reports that on Monday night the enemy had only two mounted pickets at iDranesville and no force at Fairfax Court-House, and believes there is none there now; pickets were not disturbed last night. Griffin and Kilpatrick have both sent reliable liarties to Fairfax Court-House and Drauesville, and hope to get reliable information to-day. Your dispatch received. If a heavy Tam falls, I hope the enemy will have committed the blunder which they cannot cor- rect. God grant success to our cause. I return to Corcoran to-day. F. J. PORTER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Near Clarksburg, Md., September 110, 1862. General R. B. MARCY: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with instructions, dated 3.15 a. m. to-day, I moved my commandBanks corps on Damascus, and my own on Clarksburg. In obedience to orders received from Headquarters Army of the Potomac, 12 in., I halted my command, and shall remain until further orders as I am. Banks corps is within a mile of Damascus, and my own 3 miles east of Clarksburg. I have placed my corps in position, and, although the ground is not good, I think it is secure. E. V. SUMNER, Brevet Major- General, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS, [September] 10, [1862]10.50 a. m. (Received 11.30 a. in.) Col. A. V. COLBURN, Headquarters, Rockville: No enemy to be discovered in front. An officer just returned from a scout with a squadron reports no enemy between the railroads for 10 miles out, nor did he discover anything of their whereabouts. ALEX. S. WEBB, Chief of Staff, .FVth LYorp8. 36 U UVOL flX~ PT I Page 242 242 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 252. f Cam near Rockville, Md., September 10, 1862. * * * * * * * IV. The following officers are announced as heads of their depart. ments at these headquarters: Brig. Gen. John Buford, U. S. Volunteers, chief of cavalry. First Lieut. Francis J. Shunk, chief of ordnance. V. Upon representation by its brigade and division commanders, of the demoralized condition of the Fifty-fifth Regiment New York Volun. teers, the regiment will proceed to Washington forthwith, and report to Major-General Banks for assignment to the command of Major.General Porter, who will use every means to bring the regiment to a state of efficiency which the circumstances admit of. * * * * * * * By command of Major.General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major.General llE~TZELMA~, Washington, September 10, 1862. Arlington, Va.: It is reported that the flag of truce on the road to Centreville ceased to-day at 12 in., and yet some 50 ambulances have been sent out by the Medical Department. Send cavalry to protect and bring them in. It is also reported that a body of the enemy has recrossed the Potomac to attack on the Virginia side. Be ready for them. You must take care of all stragglers on your side of the river. I will try to dispose of those here. H. W. HALLECK General-in. Chief. HDQRS. DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON SOUTH OF POTOMAC, General GROVER, September 10, 186212 In. Commanding Division near Fort Lyon: You will occupy the ground from the Potomac on your left, to connect with General Birney on your right, on Cameron Run, the latter having been moved to the right. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON SOUTH OF POTOMAC, General JOHN ~. ABEROROMBIE, September 10, 18625 p. in. Chain Bridge: it is reported that a body of the enemy has recrossed the Potomac to attack on the Virginia side. Be ready for them. S. P. llEINTZEL1~JAN, Major- General Page 243 CI~AP. ZXXI.] CORR1~SPONDENCE, ETCtitNION. 243 SURGEON-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, D. C., September 10, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. XV. HALLECK, General-in- Chief, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit, for your information, the within communication from Lieut. Col. R. H. Coolidge, medical inspector, U. S. Army, with the request that you will take such action in the prem- ises as may be proper. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM A. HAMMOND, Surgeon- General. [Inclosure.] SURGEON-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, D. C., September 10, 1862. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM A. HAMMOND, U. S. Army: GENERAL: I have to report that all our wounded have been removed fi-om the battle-field near Groveton, and from the field hospitals at Bull lion, Manassas Junction, Bristoe Station, and Centreville. 1 arrived at the hospital at Fairfax Seminary with the last of the wounded at 4 oclock this morning. I will make a detailed report of my ~roceedings as soon as possible, but I now hasten to inform you that about 6 oclock last evening, while my ainbulan ces and wounded were in and near Centreville, four citizens of Fairfax Court-House came into Centreville and reported to the Confederate officer in command, Capt. l)aniel T. Richard, Sixth Regiment Virginia Cavalry, that a few hours previous an officer of United States cavalry, with 15 or 20 armed cavalry soldiers, had dashed into the town and arrested and carried oft at least one citizen of that place. I saw the persons who brought this report, and I cannot but think there is truth in it. I have l)romised to report this circumstance to my Government, and to urge that all persons ar- rested by the cavalry officer referred to be restored to their liberty, and that the act of the officer be disavowed. The officers of the Confederate army understood that the flag of truce covered the whole road from the battle-field to this city. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, RICHARD H. COOLIDGE, Medical Inspector, U. S. Army. P. S.As the flag of trace was to continue until all our wounded were removed, and no longer, it has expired by its own limitation. WASHINGTON, September 10, 1862. Surgeon-General HAMMOND: GENERAL: The report of Medical Director Coolidge, without date, is r& urned herewith for date. You will immediately report when and by what agreement the flag of truce ceased to have effect; whether all wounded were removed at the time; to whom and at what times any notification of such arrangement iu relation to flag of truce was ma(lC; whether any, and how many, am- bulances were, or now are, beyond our lines; whether they were ordere Page 244 214 OPERATIONS IN N. VK, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CITAP. XXXI. back, and such other information on this matter as may be deemed necessary for a full understanding of the subject. Very respectfully, your obedieni servant, J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. SURGEON-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, I). C., September 10, 1862. Col. J. C. KELTON Assistant Adjutant- General, U. S. Army: COLONEL: In compliance with the orders of the General-lu-Chief, I have the honor to state that Medical Inspector Coolidge informs me as follows: 1st. That he was notified by Capt. Daniel T. Richard, the rebel com- inander, that the flag of truce would cease when the last wounded man was removed from the field, allowing a reasonable time in wbich to reach this city. 2d. All the wounded were removed. 3d. Fifty-two ambulances left this city last evening under charge of Assistant Surgeon Dunster, U. S. Army. They were sent iii accordance with the request of Medical Inspector Mussey, who had just returned, and who represented their need. Nothing has been heard of them since. It is scarcely time yet for Dr. Dumister to return. I have no other source of informatiomi than l)r. Coolidge. I inclose a further report from him. Very res~)eCtfulIy, your obedient servant, WILLIAM A. hAMMOND, Surgeon- General. [Inclosure.] WASHINGTON, 1). C., September 10, 1862. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM A. HAMMOND, Surgeon- General, U. S. Army: GENERAL: On placing the last of my wounded soldiers into the am- bulance at Centreville last evening, after sunset, I had a conversation with Capt. Daniel T. Richard, Sixth Virginia Cavalry, commanding Con- le(lerate trool)s at Centreville, of which the following is the substance: I understood from that officer that by his instructions the flag of truce expired so soon as the last of our wounded had been removed, giving time for their arrival at Washington. I suggested that the wounded might be detained on the road by accident, and that more time than that usually occupied in traveling from Centreville to Washington might be allowed, naming until sunset this evening as a desirable extension, so that I might communicate with my own Government. The officer appeared reluctant to assent, and it was understood that my train of ambulances would be considered as having reached Washingtomm at noon to-day. I presumed that all ambulances in going to Centreville would travel the road I had been directed to send them by on their return, and I imi- tended turning back all trains I met, but I saw none. Time news of our cavalry havimig entered Fairfax Court-House had somewhat excited the Confederate officers at Centreville. They viewed the report as true, and considered that the flag of truce had been vio- lated. 1 did not consider it advisable to question their construction of their own orders, being glad, under the circumstances, to get our wounded passed out without detention Page 245 CHAP. XXX1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 245 I had 110 orders from General Pope, nor had I seen the rcl)ly of Gen- eral Lee, (2. S. Army, to that officers application for a flag of truce for the removal of our wounded. All our wounded were removed before my departure from Centreville, Va., last evening, about 9 oclock. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ItLOHARD II. COOLIDGE, Medical Inspector, U. S. Army. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, No. 2. Washington, S~ptember 10, 1862. I. With the exception of general officers, no officer or soldier will be allowed to cross any of the bridges or ferries of the Potomac, or to visit the cities of Washington, Georgetown, or Alexandria, without a pass signed by the regimental commander and approved by the commanders of the brigade and division in which the regiment is serving. Such ~)ass~~ will not be granted for a greater period than forty-eight hours, and every pass must state distinctly the object for which it is granted. General officers, when recognized as such, require no pass; but they will not leave their commands without permission from their superior com- manders. Aides-de-camp and other staff officers, wheii not with their general, will require passes in the same manner as all other officers. II. Officers and men belonging to troops serving in the cities of Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria will not leave their camps or barracks without a pass from their regimental commander. III. The officers of the provost guard will order any officer found in either of the three cities, contrary to the provisions of this order, to re- turn to his regiment, in arrest, and his name and regiment will, without delay, be communicated by the provost-marshal to the division coni- inander concerned, who will cause him to be~ brought to trial, as soon as possible, for the violation of this order. Enlisted men found in either of the three cities without authority will be arrested and kept under ouard until a guard is sent for them by their division command- ers, whom the provost-marshal will promptly notify of the arrest, and who will hold the subordinate commanders concerned responsible for the absence of their men. IV. The subject of passes to civilians, not in the military service, will be regulated by the military governor of the District of Columbia. V. No wine, beer, or ardent spirits, unless they be for hospital or subsistence stores, or the private stores of an officer (in either of which cases they should be so marked), will be allowed to pass the guards at any of the bridges or ferries, or the guards of any camp or barracks in this command, without a pass from the military governor or provost- marshal of Washington or Alexandria, to cover the stores. VI. Passes granted by a division commander must be signed by the commander himself, or by not exceeding two officers qf his staff; whose names and signatures must be reported to the military governor of the District of Columbia and of Alexandria. VII. All fast riding or driving is forbidden in the cities of Wash- ington and Alexandria. Teamsters must drive their teams at a walk. Orderlies will habitually ride either at a walk or trot; if necessary for them to ride at a more rapid pace, the direction gallop~ should be written on the envelope of the dispatch. VIII. While passing through the streets of Washington, Georgetown, or Alexandria, teams must leave a space equal to the width of a street after every sixth wagon. Wagons will not halt on the crossings, bu Page 246 246 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXL leave them clear for foot passengers. Quartermasters and wagon-mas- ters will be held responsible for any violation of these provisions by the trains under their command. Commanding officers will see that every quartermaster receives a copy of this order, and quartermasters will see that this order is read to their teamsters. IX. The military governors and provost-marshals of Washington and Alexandria will see to the strict and systematic enforcement of the : hove provisions. X. Each corps and independent commander will send an orderly to hese headquarters at 12 m. daily for orders. By command of Major-General Banks: iRICIID B. IRWIN, Capt., Aide-de-Camp, and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 10, 1862. Major-General WOOL: The Secretary of War wishes to see you here immediately. Please come without delay. H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief. BALTDIORE, MD., September 10, 18629.55 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: On my return to this city I was surprised to learn that it is generally rel)orted that I had been superseded in the command of the Middle I )epartmen t, and especially of this city. The most influential friends (4 the Administration have called on inc this evening, and assured me hat if I leave this city at this time the most serious consequences will follow. They insist that I must not leave. I beg, therefore, that you will let me off~ going to Philadelphia, for, under existing circumstances, it will not do; at the same time it would be extremely unpleasant to me. Please answer immediately. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. BALTiMORE, Mn., September 10, 186211.05 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: I got back too late to get any cars to Philadelphia to-night. I can- riot get away until 8 oclock to-morrow. The rejoicing of my being superseded by men who appear to have influence at Washington has I)roduced a state of things here that would make it highly dangerous to the state of public peace if I were to leave now. I am unable to comprehend the proposition that was made to me. The execution of it, I hope, will not be insisted upon. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 10, 1862. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: General [Andrew] Porter was sent to assist you in raising and organ- zing troops. He was not assigned to any command. It is of vita Page 247 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 247 importance that all troops possible be sent here while the communica- tions are open. If closed, then they must be organized north of the Susquehanna. The best way to defend Pennsylvania now is to concen- trate our forces on the enemy, and not to scatter them in weak parties at several points. An officer of high rank will be sent to Harrisburg, to act as exigencies may require. H. ~. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HARRISBURG, PA., Sertember 10, 1862..11.45 a. m. General H. W. HALLECK: Have just received your message. Colonel Wright, of my staff7 will go to Washington to confer with you in regard to military affairs in Pennsylvania. Please see him early to-morrow, so that he may return promptly. A. G. CIJRTIK, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 10,18623.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, General.in-Chief: A paroled Union man just arrived at Hagerstown from Frederick, fully credited by operator. He reports he passed General Jackson, with a large force, on t.he National road, between Middletown and Boons- borough, at 9 this morning. General Jackson commanded in person. Body-guard of cavalry in front, followed by infantry, and cavalry in rear. Middletown is 18 miles, and Boonsborough 10 miles, from Hagers- town. Sharpsburg road, leading to Harpers Ferry, is half mile beyond Boonsborough. The sheriff of Hagerstown, a reliable Union man, has informed the operator that he met rebel scout, a personal friend, to-day, who advised him to leave Hagerstown immediately. The Cumberland Valley is entirely undefended, and we are entirely without force here. I have sent Captain Palmer, of Buells body-guard, to Greencastle, to put mounted men from Hagerstown toward Hancock, Williamsport, Harpers Ferry, and Frederick. He has no horses. Hundred and fifty regular cavalry and horses at Carlisle. Cant they be ordered to report - at once to Captain Palmer, Greencastle ~l Please instruct him also to press horses into service, and receipt for same for a few days. I asked General Wool to do so this morning, but he has not answered. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 10, 1862. Governor CuxTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Major-General Wool has been assigned to the duty of organizing the military forces north of the Susquehanna. He will be in Philadelphia to-morrow morning. Commrniicate with him there. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 248 248 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HARRISBURG, PA., September 10, 1862. (Received 5 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: Following just received from Hagerstown operator: Jacksons advance within 3 miles of this place. lie has only his own corps. I will retreat along the line of the railroad and tap the wire. A. G. CURTIN. HARRISBURG, PA., September 10, 18626.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Colonel Wright will not reach Washington until to-morrow morning. Under the pressing circumstances, I deem it my duty to ask for the im- mediate presence of an officer of high rank, clothed with full powers to act for the Government, as I design to call out the militia of the State for its defense to-morrow, unless the information of the advance of the rebels, as communicated to you, should prove unfounded. A. G. CUJITIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 10, 186210 a. in. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Rockville: Your message received. I have letter from clergyman, dated Taney- town, Md., Sunday night, in which he says: One of my elders, a reliable man, traveled 7 miles through their camps on Sunday. Their force around Frederick is not less than 120,000 men, and the part under Lee had not joined that army. He conversed with many officers and men. They appeared to believe ;heir whole army in Maryland would exceed 200,000 men, and their in- tention was to march either upon Harrisburg or Baltimore, probably the latter. Men ragged and filthy, but full of fight. Our news from Hagers- town is goo(1. General White, at Martinsburg, reports all well. No enemy near 1-lagerstown or approaching in that direction. Confidence is being rapidly restored there. From all we can learn, the enemy has selected his ground and massed his force near Frederick, to give you battle, the result of which will probably decide the future of our coun- try. A. G. CUBTIN, - Governor of Pennsylvanta. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, & plember 10, 186210.30 p. m. ANDREW G. CuiurIN, Governor of Pennsylvania: Everything that we can learn induces me to believe that the informa- tion you have received is substantially correct. I think the enemy are checked in the directions of Baltimore and Gettysburg. You should concentrate all the troops you can in the vicinity of Chambersburg, not entirely neglecting Gettysburg. I will follow them up as rapidly as possible, and do all I can to check their movements into Pennsylvania. Call out the militia, especially mounted men, and do everything in your power to iml)ede the enemy by the action of light troops; attack them in flank, destroying their trains and any property which must-ine Page 249 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 249 itably come into their possession. You may be sure that I will follo~v them as closely as I can, and fight them whenever I can find them. It is as much my imiterest as yours to preserve the soil of Pennsylvania from invasion, or, failing in that, to destroy any army that may have the temerity to attempt it. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 10, 18622.30 p. in. Major-General HALLECK: A column of the enemy (5,000 of all arms) marching ou Hagerstown. D. S. MILES. MARTLNSBURG, VA., & ytember 10, 18629 p. m. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Aid.: Lientenant-Colonel Downey, commanding at Kearneysville, reports that he, with an escort of 20 men, encountered the enemy at Boonsbor- ough, advancing to-day. He does not state whether in this direction or toward Hagerstown; probably, cannot tell. The enemy in considera- ble force. Colonel Downey and Captain Shambnrg, commanding the escort, charged upon the enemy, who retreated iu confusion, till they ascertained how small a force attacked them, and then turned upon our mcii, who were obliged, of course, to recede. Colonel Downey was wounded, though not severely. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURG, VA., September 10, 186211 p. In. 1~Iajor-General HALLECK: I address the dispatch to you as well as General Wool, having heard lie was absent from Baltimore. The force alluded to is undoubtedly larger than heretofore reported. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURG, VA., September 10, 186211 p. in. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: A reliable spy (whom I have had in Maryland for two days past) has just arrived, and reports the forces of the enemy passing through Boonsborough, northwestward, to-day, at not less than 15,000, of all armsat least twelve regiments of infantry. Probable destination Hagerstown. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. CONTINENTAL HOTEL, Philadelphia, Pa., September 10, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Colonel Wright, of Governor Curtins staff, will arrive in Washing- ton early to.morrow morning, and drive direct to your house. It i Page 250 250 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. important that he should see you at the earliest moment possible. Do not detail a general officer for Pennsylvania until he sees you. The rebels are now in Cumberland Valley, and it is fair to presume their object is the capture of the capital of Pennsylvania. What can you do to aid with forces to meet this movement of Jackson? We are des- titute of artillery to defend the passage of the Susquehanna. Can you order guns and ammunition to-night, from Pittsburgh and Eastern l)oints, to concentrate at Harrisburg immediately, using special trains on all the railroads? Please answer. THOMAS A. SCOTT. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, S~ptember 10, 1862. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Philadelphia, Pa.: If there should be any real necessity to send guns and ammunition from Pittsburgh, it will be ordered. The way to defend the Cumberland Valley is to send all available means of attack here. It will be time enough to order arms and ammunition from Pittsburgh when they are really needed. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief PHILADELPHIA, PA., & ptember 10,1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: We want an active, energetic officer to command forces in the field, and one that could rally Pennsylvanians around him. It is believed that General Reynolds would be the most useful, and I hope you will arrange to send him after your interview with Colonel Wright in the morning, who will explain fully all the reasons. THOMAS A. SCOTT. PHILADELPHIA, PA., September 10, 186210 a. m. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: The undersigned, citizens of Philadelphia, in view of the inadequate organization of its local troops and the deficient means of defense against a hostile army, respectfully and earnestly entreat Your Excel- lency to create a military district of this city and the adjacent country, and to assign a general of known energy and capacity to the command thereof, with instructions to adopt whatever measures of security may be needful in the present crisis. THOS. ROBINS, President Philadelphia Bank; THOS. SMITH, President Bank of North Arnersca; S. A. MEIICER, President Farmers and Mechanics Bank; and the presidents of other banks and institutions, and by citizens gen~ erally. If the President will favor the memorialists with a reply, it may be ~wldressed to J. 11. Fry on their beh~tlf Page 251 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 251 PHILADELPHIA, PA., September 10, 186210.02 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: UIl(ler our militia laws we are utterly defenseless, and, besides, are tlogge(l with commanders who cannot be removed. Therefore, we ask or a military governor, to be appointed by the President. We implore you to give us one who combines the sagacity of the statesman with he acuteness and skill of the soldier. Give us a man whose heart is in lie war, and who has no sympathy with secession or its adhereiits in this city. THOMAS WEBSTER. MORTON McMICHAEL. JOHN W. FORNEY. PHILADELPHIA, September 10, 18621.20 p. in. To the 1~RE5IDENT AND SECRETARY OF WAR: The Philadelphia chief commissioners for drafting respectfully repre- sent to the President and Secretary of War the immediate necessity of luitting the city and its defenses under the charge of United States mit- it ary general officers having the public confidence, such as General 0. M. Mitchel, with General George G. Meade. B. GERHARD. WM. H. ALLEN. PHILADELPHIA, PA., September 10, 18622.45 p. n. lion. B. Id. STANTON, Secretary of War: hi reply to your dispatch, we most earnestly recommend that Geti- cI~it Miteliel be detached from his command in Sonth Carolina, and ~issigned to duty here, with extensive powers. He is the very man for us. Please answer. We understand that the general has not yet sailed. THOMAS W EBSTER. MORTON McMJCHAEL. JOHN W. FORNEY. WASHINGTON, D~ C., September 10, 18625 p. in. rIHOMAS WEBSTER, ~I ORTON 1uiCMICHAEL, JOHN W. FORNEY, Committee, Philadelphia Before receiving your last telegram, Major-General Wool had been ordered to proceed to Philadelphia. The condition of affairs in the ~oathern Department requires the immediate presence of General 2litchel in his command, and, while confiding in his loyalty and courage, he would not, in my opinion, begin to fill your bill. EDWIN M. STANTON, $ecretary of War Page 252 252 OPERATIONS IN N. VA, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI WHEELING, VA., & ptembcr 10, 18624.20~ p. rn. Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR: I have telegraphe(l General Wool that a rebel force is colnino iii the b direction of Cumberland and New Creek, Md., aii d urgently requested that the force at Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg 1)e sent to those points to (o-ol)erate with force in this direction. They can be of great benefit at these points. The Second Cavalry defeated an(1 routed Jenkins in Kanawlia Valley. F. H. PEIRPOINT. WASHINGTON, 1). C., September 11, 1862. (Sent 10.20.) Major-General MCCLELLAN: The Governor of Pennsylvania wishes the services of General Hey- nol(ls. Can you or(ler him here for that l)U~PO5C ~ II. W. LIALLECK, Genera i-in Chief ROCKYILLE, MD., September 11, 186210.45 a. in. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Ge iieral Reynolds is now en gaged on I In I)ortaII t service, stipportin g with his (livision an attack oti New Market. lie has one of the best (hivisions, and is well acquainted w-ith it. I cannot see how his services can be spared at the present time. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Middlebrook, Aid., September 11, 186212 noon. (Received 3.45 a. in., September 12.) Major-General HALLECK: I was informed by Mr. Garrett, president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, previous to leaving Washington, that lie could transl)oLt 28,000 infantry in one day in the cars under his control. In view of this, and the iipportance of having General Porters command join me soon, I would suggest that it be sent by rail to Frederick. By this means it would reach me two days earlier thaii by making the overland march,. and would be fresh on its arrival. Porters trains might come by land. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAShINGTON, D. C., September 11, 18621.55 p. n). Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville, Md. : General Reynolds division can be commanded by some one else. lie has been designated for other duty, and must report here immediately. 11. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 253 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCIX ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, iJIiddlebrook, Md., September 11,1862. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I have ordered General Reynolds to report to Governor Curtin at the earliest practicable moment. He is now about 25 miles from here. He will probal)ly not be able to start before morning. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. IROCKYILLE, Mm, September 11, 186212 noon. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Please order Pecks division, npoii its arrival, to proceed at once to Rockville, where it will find orders for its further movements. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, B. C., September 11, 18(12. (Sent 1 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rocktille, Md.: Pecks division will not be here for some days.* Webers troops will be sent forward as soon as they cami get transportation. Why not order fbrward Porters corps, or Sigels? if the main force of the enemy is in your front more troops can be spared from here. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Camp near Rockville, All., ASeptember 11, 18623.45 p. m. (Received 4.25 p. in.) M~j. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Please send forward all the troops you can spare from Washington, particularly Porters, Heintzelmans, Sigels, and all the other old troops. Please send them to Brookville, via Leesborough, as soon as possible. Cemieral Banks reports 72,000 troops iii and about Washington. If the neiny has left ft~r Pennsylvania, 1 will follow him rapi(lly. I will move my headquarters to Middlebrook immediately. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington City, September ii, 18626 p. in. Major-General MCCLELLAN: rf1~is is exl)lanatory. If Porter, Ileintzelman, and Sigel were sent you, it would sweep everything from the other side of the river, because the new troops have been distributed among them, as I understand. It was retained in Dixs command. See Halleck to Dix, September 24, 1862, Serie8 1, Vol. XVIII, p. 401 Page 254 254 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. Z~Xt. Porter reports himself 21,000 strong, ~vh ich can only be by the addition of new troops. He is ordered to-night to join yon as quickly as possible. I am for sending you all that can be spared, and I hope others can fol- low Porter very soon. A. LINCOLN. HEADQUARTERS, Camp near Rockville, Md., September 11, 1862. (Received 6 p. in.) Maj. Geii. H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief: GENERAL: At the time this army moved from Washington, it was not known what the intentions of the rebels were in placing their forces on this side of the Potomac. It might have been a feint to draw away our trooI)s from Washington, for the purpose of throwing their main army into the city as soon as we were out of the way, or it might have been supposed to be precisely what they are now doing. In view of this uncertain con- ditiorm of things, I left what I conceived to be a sufficient force to dcfend the city against any army they could bring against it from the Virginia side of the Potomac. This uncertainty, in my judgment, exists no longer. All the evidence that has been accumulated from various sources since we left Washington goes to prove most conclusively that almost the entire rebel army in Virginia, amounting to not less than 120,000 men, is in the vicinity of Frederick City. These troops, for the most part, consist of their oldest regiments, and are commanded by their best gen- erals. Several brigades joined them yesterday, direct from Richmond, two deserters from which say that they saw no other troops between Richmond and Leesbnrg. Everything seems to indicate that they intend to hazard all upon the issue of the coming battle. They are probably aware that their forces are numerically superior to ours by at least 25 per cent. This, with the prestige of their recent successes, will, without doubt, inspire them with a confidence which will cause them to fight well. The momentous consequences involved in the struggle of the next few days impels me, at the risk of being considered slow and overcau- tious, to most earnestly recommend that every available man be at once added to this army. I believe this army fully appreciates the importance of a victory at this time, and will fight well; but the result of a general battle, with such odds as the enemy now appears to have against us, might, to say the least, be doubtful; and if we should be defeated the consequences to the country would be disastrous in the extreme. Under these cir- cumstances, I would recommend that one or two of the three army corps now on the Potomac, opposite Washington, be at once withdrawn and sent to re-enforce this army. I would also advise that the force of Cob- nel Miles, at Harpers Ferry, where it can be of but little use, and is continually exposed to be cut off by the enemy, be immediately ordered here. This would add about 25,000 old troops to our present force, and would greatly strengthen us. If there are any rebel forces remaining on the other side of the Po- tomac, they must be so few that the troops left in the forts, after the two corps shall have been withdrawn, will be sufficient to check tbem; and, with the large cavalry force now on that side kept well out in fromi t to give warning of the distant approach of any very large army, a I)art ol this army might be sent back within the intrenchments to assist in ic- h)elhing an attack. But even if Washington should be taken while these armies are confronting each other, this would not, in my judgment, bea Page 255 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ET~J.1tNION. 255 comparison with the ruin and disaster which would follow a signal defeat of this army. If we should be successful in conquering the gigantic rebel army before us, we would have no difficulty in recovering it. On the other hand, should their force prove sufficiently powerful to defeat us, would all the forces now around Washington be sufficient to prevent such a victorious army from carrying the works on this side of the Po- tomac, after they are uncovered by our army? I think not. From the moment the rebels commenced the policy of concentrating their forces, and with their large masses of troops operating against our scattered forces, they have been successful. They are undoubtedly pur- suing the same now, and are prepared to take advantage of any divisioii of our troops in future. I, therefore, most respectfully, but strenuously, urge upon you the absolute necessity, at this critical juncture, of unitino all our disposable forces. Every other consideration should yield to this, and if we defeat the army now arrayed before us, the rebellion is crushed, for I do not believe they can organize another army. But if we should be so unfortunate as to meet with defeat, our country is at their mercy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 11, 18629 ~ in. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Roekville, Md.: General Fitz John Porters corps has been ordered to move to-mou- row to Brookville, via Lees borough, to report to you for duty in the field. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 11, 186211.30 p. in. (Received 3.40 a. in., September 12.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: GENERAL: My signals have to-day been established on Sugar Loaf Mountain. At last advices, Burnsides troops were within 2 miles of New Market. I have ordered him to advance to-morrow, if possible, to Frederick and occupy it; Sumner and Franklin to advance early in the morning to Urbana, Couch following the movement, after leaving a force to guard the fords below the Monocacy. I am much obliged to you for sending me Porters corps, and should like the remainder of Keyes corps as soon as possible. I shall follow up the rebels as rapidly as possible. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HOCKYILLE, [Mn.], [September] 11, 18621 p. in. Gejieral AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Brookville: The commanding general will not move Sumner and Franklin on Ur- bana until he hears from you, after your movement toward New Market is decided. Should you think that the taking that place will be likely to bring on a general engagement, you will not make the attack. This you can probably judge of after your reconnaissance this morning. It. B. MARCY Page 256 25~ oPEi?A~IONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MP., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXI. BROOKYILLE, [MD.], [September] 11, [1862.] Major-General MCCLELLAN, Roekvtfle: The following dispatch has just 1een received: DAMASCUS, September 11, 18626 a. m. General BURNSIDE: With the view of following your instructions, I left yesterday, at 12.30 p. in., and went to Cracklinton, where I had expected a cavalry scout, under Colonel Devin. After waiting until 4 p. m. I received about 100 men, under Colonel Allen, First Maine, and learned that Colonel Devin was absent from General Coxs headquarters, and his men and horses unfit for the march. I received, however, an increase of 60 cavalry from General Rodman. Colonel Allens command had been on march the whole day without forage, and the horses were allowed to feed an hour at the quartermasters department at Cracklinton. I mention this to show why we did not arrive here until dark, and why the horses could not go farther that night. At this place I found one regiment infantry, under Colonel Ewing, who offered all facilities. The same re- ports were prevalent here as we heard at your camp, viz, of rebel forces at Hyatts- town, Urbana, and New Market, with a large force at Frederick. It was reported that rebel pickets extend on the New Market road to within 4 miles of this place. I suggested fo Colonel Ewing that if a rebel picket guard could be captured and brought here, it might afford us valuable information. He agreed with me, and selected a lieutenant and 23 men on this duty, with orders to march through fields,, avoiding the roads, try and capture the supposed rebels, and bring them in. They started at ii p. in., and returned just now. They found no rebel force at the hamlet, 4 miles from Da- masciis, where their pickets had been the night before and up to 11 a. in. yesterday, when they left, saying they would return, but did not. There had been 6 or 8 of them. The lieutenant then went 11 miles farther, and at 4 a. m. heard drums beating, supposed 1~ miles still farther on, probably near Morena, or, perhaps, a mile this side. At the hamlet, 4 miles from here, called Kemptown, and about as large as this place, six or eight houses, the lieutenant took two citizens of that place and brought them to me. They report some 1,200 cavalry came to New Market last Saturday, and these were distributed north and south between Liberty and Hyattstown. No other kind of force in immediate vicinity than cavalry. When asked how many rebels entered Maryland, under Jackson, they say from 100,000 to 150,000, but these numbers are rumors. Colonel Ewing will occupy the forks of the road, 2 miles from here, to enable me to go with all the cavalry escort to Ridgeville, and then, if rebels are there on the roads toward New Market, on returning I will forward you another report, having reserved a fresh horse for the purpose. rI~he section of cavalry arrived last night. The roads, as far as I have gone, are good, with fields and open timber and good water at intervals. R. S. WILLIAMSON, Captain Topographical Engineers. A. E. B1IIRNSJDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS RIGHT WING, September 11, 18628 p. in. (Received Washington, D. 0., September 121.55 a. in. General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: The following has just been received: HEADQUARTERS KANAWIIA DIVISION, Ilidgeville, September 11, [1862]5.30 p. in. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that an Irishman, named Michael Kingsley, has just come into my camp from Fredericktowu, which l)l:Lce he mys he left at 11 a. in. to-day. He reports that place evacuated by the rebels except l)ickets. That there is no force but cavalry pickets of smimall numbers anywhere on the roail between Fred- erick amid Ridgeville: sa~v only 30 om 40 cavalry at New Market. He dodged their l.iickets through the woods. His report is confirmed by several l)artial accounts re- ceived by me from citizens in the neighborhood, and I think it reliable. He lives in Baltimore, and has beemi working near Harpers Ferry. The reports of force in direc- tion of New London and Liberty are somewhat vague, and 1 am trying to obtain something more definite. I do not incline to believe there is much force in our front Page 257 OnAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 257 The rebels in leaving Frederick are reported to have gone on the Hagerstown road. Their force there is reported by a citizen, who was through a few days, to be Jacksons and Longstreets divisions, each four brigades of five regiments each. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. COOKSVILLE, September 11 [1862]1O.30 a. m. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Corps: GENERAL: Captain Beardsley, Sixth New York Cavalry, who is posted hcre, states that John S. Doll, proprietor of the Eutaw House, Baltimore, passed through this place on his way from Frederick to Baltimore at 1 oclock last night. He (Doll) states that the main force of the enemy left FrederLk yesterday morning for Harrisburg, and that at 1 oclock yesterday but one division was left at Frederick, and that it was preparing to march. The entire numbers 160,000. Jackson has the advance. He met Lees and Stuarts cavalry at New Market; about 1,000 men. He also met a squadron about 1 mile this side of New Market, returning to that place. From in- formation obtained, it is believed that this squadron had been to Hoods Mills, 2 miles from here, on the railroad. We have now a picket at Hoods Mills, and one company of Sixth Ne~v York has gone this morning to Ridgeville by this pike. Nothing has been heard of the enemy here this side of New Market since yesterday. Captain Beardsley deems the information of Mr. Doll reliable. He visited Frederick to attend to his family, and was detained at Frederick several days. The railroad bridge over the Monocacy is destroyed. The enemy took the road up the Cumberland Valley. Very respectfully, D. C. HOUSTON, Major of Engineers. POPLAR HILL 1.15 p. mu. Lieutenant-Colonel RICHMOND: Just reached here with Reynolds division this evening. Please read the inclosed [preceding] letter just received. Headquamters will be bere to-night. Very respectfully, JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General, Commanding Corps. A. E. BURNS1DE. DAMASCUS [MD.], September 11, 186211.20 ~. m. Major-General HooKER: GENERAL: I wish you to communicate with General Reno. Have the main body of your corps brought np to within good supporting distance of him at Ridgeville, posting a portion of your corps judiciously in your rear for the purpose of protecting otir right fiaiik. General McClellan informs me that the enemy is reported to be in large force between I red- crick and Liberty, but there is no confirmation of this. Please throw your cavalry out in that direction to-night in strong force, and ascertain positively if there is any enemy at Liberty or its neighborhood. Send couriers frequently to IRidgeville. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Per J40. G. PARKE, Chif of Staffi SEPTEMBER 11, 1862. Colonel WEBB, Chief of Staff, Arlington llieight8: COLONEL: My scouts have just returned from Broad Run and Goose Creek. Yesterday there were two brigades at Leesburg; one went to 17 R RVOL XIX, PT I Page 258 258 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. Winchester and the other is still at Leesburg. All the rest of the rebel force is said to have crossed over into Maryland, in all not over 200,000. Very respectfully, & c., J. KILPAThICK, Colonel, (Jommanding Cavalry Brigade. BAUNESYILLE, MD., & ptember 11, 18623.35 p. m. General R. B. MARCY, ChiefofStafl Just in from the front. Have possession of Sugar Loaf Mountain and the signal station. While General Franklin moved a (livisioll of his command forward this morning toward the cross-roads in front, I moved two regiments of cavalry and a section of artillery to the right, and intercepted the rebels getting off. Colonel Farnsworth gave them a few shells, and then sent a party to the top of the mountain, who soon fired a volley and gave a hurra~i,to let us know the hill was won. The Eighth Illinois behaved with their accustomed gallantry. Yesterday Generals Stuarts and Lees cavalry were present at the fight, and Gemi- eral Stuart told General Lee that one of the shells we fired over the mountain burst over his bead while he was at the signal station. Our loss yesterday was 1 killed and 3 wounded. Th~ enemy left 3 wounded behind them. One, a lieutenant of the Seventh Viro-inia (Ashbys) Cav- alry, died yesterday. 1 had him buried this morning. 1 heard to-day that Robertson, with a cavalry force and four horse batteries, has been trying to cross the river for some days. There are only some 3,000 men at Dranesville, and 2,000 cavalry, under W, D. Smith [~], at Centreville. By holding the mouth of the Monocacy, all the ferries and fords below that point are closed to the rebels. I have sent two regiments and a section of artillery there, but it would be well to send a brigade from Couchs and some artillery to that point. I believe the occupation of iMonocacy has forced the rebels farther up to cross the river. I send this evening a regiment and a half to Greenfield Mills, on the Monocacy, to hold that point and scouttoLicksville Adani4own Sedgwicks division of Sumners corps ,and Buckeystown. has arrived at llyattstown. A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General.. HEADQUARTERS, Arlington, September 11, 1862. (Received 12 in.) General WILLIAMS, McClellans Headquarters: The First Rhode Island Cavalry are on the march to join you at Brookville. I join you to-morrow with iViorells division. F. J. PORTER, Miajor. General. WAShINGTON, 1). C., September 11, 1862. General WHIPPLE, Fort Albany: By direction of the Gemieral-in-Chief, you will at once l)llt Tylers and Allabachs brigades in motion, under the command of the seiiioi- officer, for Brookville, via L cesboroagh, and report there to inc as soomi a Page 259 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 259 practicable. Take in haversacks two days provisions, as much as pos- sible in wagons; beef on the hoof; also ammunition. You remain as essential to the defenses on your side. General Humphreys will be assigned to the command of the division. F. J. PORTER, Major- General. ARLINGTON, September 11, 18629.15 p. m. General GRIFFIN: Send out hour notice at once to all your regiments that they will be required to march to-morrow morning. The hour will be given as soon as possible. Three days rations in haversacks. F. J. PORTER, ]lfajor-General, Commanding. ARLINGTON, Septembcr 11, 186210.10 J). m. General GRIFFIN: Have your command at Fort Corcoran at 7.45 a. m. to-morrow, ready to fall iuto the column. Fill your haversacks and canteens, and take as much provision as possible in wagons. Acknowledge. F. J. PORTER, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 11, 1862. GENERAL: In obedience to your orders, I left this city at midnight, August 30, 1862, and proceeded as rapidly as possible to Centreville, Va., where, at 6 a. in., on Sunday, August 31, I reported in person to Major-General Pope, to whom I exhibited my instructions. Acquaint- ing myself as rapidly as possible with the situation of affairs, I decided upon the following course: First, to remove the wounded from the hos. l)itals at Bull Ran, in ad~-ance of Centreville, and to transfer the whole establishment, surgeons, nurses, cooks, cooking apparatus, and medical supl)lies, to Fairfax Statioii, where there were subsistence stores, and ~vhere the wounded could receive food aiid medical attendance before being transferred to the railroad cars to be forwarded to this city. Medical Inspector Edward P. Vollum, who superintended the transfer, rel)orts that it was safely accomplished, and that the number removed was about 1,200. Finding it impossible, on account of the lresellce of the enemy, to remove our wounded from Manassas Junction and Ens- toe Station, I commenced emptying the overcrowded hospitals at Cen- treville, and placed the first train of ambulances in charge of Asst. Surg. J. Cooper McKee, with orders to remain at Fairfax Station, to superintend the transfer of wounded from the ambulances to the cars, and to send back to me all ambulances as rapidly as possible. After giving these orders and seeing that they were being executed, I went to Major-General Pope au(l State(l that Iliad been informed that a large number of our wounded were still lying on the battle-field, and requested that he would apply for a flag of truce, that they might be removed. The general made the application immediately. The reply granting the flag was communicated to Medical Director i\lcPanliii, Sun day evening, too late to Proceed that night. .1, li owever, ordered Medical I)irector MeParhin to have his trains of ambulances ready, and to procure fro Page 260 260 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. regiments, brigades, and divisions the necessary detail of surgeons and assistants, the whole to move at 6 oclock on Monday morning. I also directed Surgeon Page and most of the medical officers sent by you from this city to accompany Surgeon McParlin. The train of 37 wagons, con- taining medical and hospital supplies, dispatched by you on Saturday night in charge of Assistant. Surgeon Webster, arrived at a late hour on Sunday night. These wagons were unloaded at Centreville, and sent to the battle-field with Surgeon McParlin, who took such of the sup. plies as he thought would be required, and also his hospital supply wagon. It is to be remarked here that III had been officially informed that the army would remain at Centreville; that I had no definite knowl- edge of the number of our wounded on the field, or their precise situ- ation, and intended keeping the trains moving as rapidly as I)ossible between the battle-field and Centreville, expecting, in two days, to coin- plete their removal. Of all the trains of ambulances sent to Fairfax Station on Sunday, but one returned, an(1 that was sent to the battle-field. On Monday, judg- ing from the movements around me that the army would fall back, I applied to Colonel IRuggles, assistant adjutant-general and chief of staft~ who informed me that while he thought the army would fall back, it was not yet so decided. I then asked that I might be informed as soon as the decision was made. Early Monday evening, I think about 7 oclock, I went to Major-General Pope, stated my impressions, from what I heard and saw, that the army was retiring, reh~rred to the nature of my orders from you, and asked whether I should accompany him, or remain with the wounded, and send his medical director, Surgeon Mc- Parlin,to him. The general decided I should send Medical Director McParlin to him, and remain myself with the wounded. The general also stated to me that he had no intention of leaving this l)lace (Centre- ville); that the old Braddock road to Fairfi~x Station was open, and that my ambulances should be sent that way. During both Sunday and Monday I had made repeated efforts to procure subsistence stores. So far as I could ascertain, there were none at Centreville. Col. E. G. Beckwith, chief commissary, gave me an order on any commissary I could find for oue beef, which I procured on Monday morning. I also obtained some coffee, sugar, candles, and hard bread. On Monday night, when the wagons were passing through Centreville, Commissary Smith left with me a few subsistence stores. The first train of ambu- lances arrived in Centreville from the battle-field on Monday evening. The wounded were fed with soup, coffee, and hard bread, furnished with blankets, and forwarded at daybreak Tuesday morning, by the Brad- dock road. During the night all our troops left Centreville, and on Tuesday morning the place was occupied by the enemy. I had not deemed it proper either to send back my hospital supplies or to destroy them, trusting that our wounded would have some benefit from them, even after they had passed from my control. The result (lid not dis- appoint my expectations. Of the 4,000 blankets you sent to me, 2,000 at least were used for our wounded, and the requisitions of the mcdi- cal officers at Centreville for medical and hospital stores for imme- diate use, including concentrated beef essence, mutton broth, extract of coffee, sugar, and milk, milk in cans, crackers, brandy, whisky, xvine, and tea, were promptly complied with. On Tuesday nmorm,inv, after the occul)ation of Centreville by the rebel troops, I received from Medical D rector MeParhin a requisition for subsistence for 1,500 men, and a note (lescribing the destitute condition of our wounded omi the field. This was the first information I had received concerning the situatio Page 261 CHAP. XXXLI CORRESPO~DENOE, ETC.IYNION. 261 of our wounded beyond Centreville. Their number was much greater than I had been led to believe, and the situation far more critical. The hospital stores at Centreville were not more than enough for the wounded there, and I had 110 means of sending anything to the battle-field. I state(l the emergency to Major Talcott and Captain Johnston, officers of the engineer corps of the Confederate Army, who had arrived in Centre- yule, and suggested, if not improper, that I might accompany them to General Lees headquarters, in the hope of obtaining permission to pass through his lines to our own and return with anibulances and provis- ions. Those officers assented readily to my proposition, and I accom- panied them to the headquarters of their army. I did not speak with General Lee, nor do I know in what words Major Talcott communicated to him the object of my visit. The reply brought to me was that Gen- eral Lee had communicated with Major-General Pope, and that our ambulances would be allowed to pass. I was also informed that 150 ambulances had passed through their lines that day. With this informa- tion, 1 returned to Centreville, expecting to find ambulances, but found only one, the driver of which said he had started with a large train, but did not know where the rest had gone. I now endeavored to hire a wagon to convey a few stores to the field, and intended to go there myself, but l)efore I could get a wagon Medical Director MeParlin caine to Centreville,in obedience to my order for him to report to Major- General Pope. The conduct of affairs on the field had been intrusted to Surg. Charles Page. Medical Director McParlin was accompanied by Medical Director L. Guild, of the Army of Northern Virginia. The accounts given by these officers of the situation of our wounded were distressing. I stated to them what I had done. On consultation, it was determined that I should address a letter to the commander of the Con- federate Army, stating the situation, and asking that both subsistence and ambulances be allowed to pass to us. Medical Director Guild also wrote to his commanding general, amid the two letters were sent for- ward that night by a special courier. The reply received by Medical Director Guild on Wednesday morning, written by Col. R. H. Chilton, assistant adjutant-general, C. S. Army, was indefinite as to my main inquiry concerning provisions being allowed to pass, but it directed Med- ical Director Guild to furnish subsistence for our wounded as far as pos- sible, and gave the route for our ambulances to take in going out, viz, by Centreville, the main road to Fairfax Court-House and Alexandria. After reading Colonel Chiltons communication, I addressed a letter to you, which was forwarded by Medical Director Guild. Believing that I had done all in my power to procure subsistence, I proceeded, in com- pany with Medical Director MeParlin (it being impracticable for him to join Major-General Pope) and Medical Director Guild, to the central depot of our wounded on the battle-field, where I found two ambulances, which I sent to Centreville for hospital stores and blankets, and then rode over the entire field, to ascertain the situation and condition of our wounded. At this time, Wednesday afternoomm, September 3, they had been collected in field hospitals, most of them in and around houses, but some merely in groups at selected sites cn the field, without other shelter than blankets. Only two of these hospitals were without medi- cal officers- they had been visited by the surgeon of the central station, and had a few nurses. There were about 30 wounded in each. After my arrival on the field, only 4 of our wounded were found completely isolated and without attendance. None had been absolutely without food, though the amount was extremely limited. Those who had bee Page 262 262 OPERAtIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MIX, AND PA. [GEAr. XXXT. collected in the vicinity of houses had found provisions on which they had subsisted. In some instances the surgeons had succeeded in pro- curing a sheep or a pig and some corn-meal, and in one place, the Van Pelt house, the surgeons found coffee, sugar, cider, wine, and were able to procure meat. Although doubtful of the propriety of so doing, I accepted the invitation to pass the night with Medical Director Guild at his camp on the battle-field. The result was, as I had hoped, bene- ficial to my wounded. It enabled me to have two ambulances, which had returned empty from Centreville, filled with hospital stores and blankets from the supplies that had been conveyed from Centreville to the camp of Medical Director Guild, and, during our ride over the field, three small beeves were purchased by that officer and ordered to be de- livered to me the next morning. On Thursday morning the first train of ambulances from this city arrived on the field, with fresh bread and an abundant and varied supply of food and hospital stores. I instantly dispatched the ambulances, with provisions, in every direction over the field, to bring to the central station all who were without some shelter. A few ambulances were employed in conveying stores and food to the several field depots,and fresh beef was sent to Ceutreville. From that moment trains of ambulances, each with food and stoies, arrived in rapid succession. The supply was superabundant. The bread, which otherwise would have spoiled, and one of the beeves, which I (lid not need, and which I could not feed, were given to the One hundred and thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, which had come to bury our dead, and had failed to bring rations. My great difficulty now was to feed the wounded, with the abundant stores at my command. All my nurses and attendants were exhausted by their labors. They could hardly be urged to the necessary effort. Nevertheless, with the aid of some self.denying an(l noble-hearted citizens, volunteer nurses, who re- inained to the last. and by the indefatigable industry and attention of the medical staff, I believe no one suffered tbr water, for fo 0(1, or for medical attendance. Each train of ambulances was supplied with an abundance of mutton-broth, extracts of beef and of coffee, canned milk, bread, and water for the journey. All the wounded were fed just before starting, and (lirections given to feed them on the road, the train to be halted, so that water could be boiled, wherewith to make soup and coP fee from the prepared essences and extracts. One soldier, whom it was impossible otlier~vise to move, was brought to this city under the influ- ence of chloroform administered on the road by Assistant Surgeon Clarke, U. S. ~volunteers. The removal of our wounded from the bat- the-field was completed Tuesday afternoon, the 9th instant, and the last trains of ambulances arrived at Fairfax Seminary hospital early Wed- nesday morning. In conclusion, I submit the following remarl~s: If I had been informed that Centreville was to be evacuated by our forces, I would have had the little subsistence remaining in that place conveyed to the field before the army retired. The large supply of blankets and hospital stores sent by you from this city on Saturday evening, August 30, saved the lives of hundreds of our wounded ; indeed, without these supplies many must have died from exposure and starvation on Monday, Tuesday, and ~Xe(l- nesday, September 1, 2, and 3. As it was, I believe the number ~f deaths fairly attributable to want of food and exposure is very small indeed. My retaining the medical and hospital stores, and allowing them to fall into the hands of the enemy, was well for our wounded, ~vho received all the stores that the medical officers applied for, as necessar Page 263 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tTNION. 263 for immediate use, and nearly, if not quite, half of the blankets. The medical officers applied themselves to their duties with an energy and (levotedness worthy of all praise, and it was only when completely ex- hausted that they ceased from their fatiguing labors. The corps of citi- zen surgeons, under Dr. Detmold, rendered efficient service fbr t~vo days, when they were no longer needed, the greater portion of the wounded haviug been removed. I must bear testim6ny to the heroic fortitude of our wounded soldiers. All appreciated the difficulties of their situation, and uncomplainingly awaited that relief which they were confident their Government would provide. The relief came at the moment when hope had almost deserted them. The unexpended hospital stores xvere brought back to this city, as was also a large portion of the commissary stores. A quantity of subsistence stores, for which I had no transportation, was distributed among the citizens whose premises had been occupied by our wounded. Our wounded were collected in twenty-one field hospitals, within an area 10 miles long by 7 wide. It was impossible to ascertain, with precision, the number of wounded, but, from the data in my p05- session, I estimate it to be 4,000. I cannot close this report without commenting on the conduct of the ambulance drivers. It was with the greatest difficulty that I could put a reasonable limit to their stealing from my commissary and hospital stores. Some would al)propriate to their own use hospital blankets, and be highly insolent when they were taken away for the wounded. Very few would assist in placing the wounded in their ambulances; still fewer could be induced to assist in feeding them or giving them water. Some were drunk; many were insubordi- nate; othrs, when detected with provisions or stores, would not sur- render them until compelled to by physical force. The practice of load- ing ambulances with forage, camp-kettles, personal baggage, and sub- sistence for the drivers needs a corrective. These things occupy space required for the wounded, and greatly interfere with their comfort. A wagon with stores and forage should accompany every train of 50 am- bulances, and nothing but sick and wounded men and water should be put in the vehicles themselves. The service greatly needs a well-organ- ized ambulance corps, and I hope the Secretary of War will adopt the organization you have recommended. Your obedient servant, RICHARD H. COOLIDGE, Medicat Inspector, U. S. Army. The SURGEON-GENERAL OF THE ARMY. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Near Clarksburg [AId.], September 11, 1862. General A. S. WILLIAMS: GENERAL: I wish you to select the strongest position iu the vicinity of Damascus (within a mile of the town), and post your command ou three lines, throwing out a strong advanced guard and picketing to the front and flanks. We are near tIme enemy, and it is absolutely necessary to be extremely vigilant Very respectfully, E. ~. SUMNER, Brevet Major-General, U. S. Army, Commanding Page 264 2~4 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LOHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Major-General HALLECK, -September 11, 1862. Commander-in- ChieJ U. S. Army: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose to you a synopsis from the rel)orts of the 10th instant of the forces in and near Washington for its defense. It is as near to the exact strength as reports ~vill bring us. The aggregate is probably somewhat larger than the actual number of trool)s ready for duty. I have the honor to be, with much respect, your obedient servant, X. P. BANK8, Major- General, Commanding. P. S.The number of guns reported is one hundred and twenty; forty of these are heavy guns in garrison. The balance is doubtless field artillery. Ti-oops for defense of Wa8hing Ion. CORPS DARMIiE. Gei;eral Heiutzelinans corps da-mJe 16, 000 General Porters corps 21, 000 General ~igels corps 9, 800 46,800 IN GARRISON. General Abererombie (Ethan Allen) 1,335 Lieutenant-Colonel Senges (Third New York Artillery) 2C6 Colonel Greene (Fourteenth Massachusetts, First Wisconsin, Sixteenth Maine) 2, 400 Colonel Tyler (First Connecticut Artillery) 1,056 Lieutenant-Colonel Haskin 6, 458 General Woodbury 4, 000 15,515 METROPOLITAN GUARD. General Wadsworth 4, 000 General Slough 2,500 6,500 PROVISIONAL BRIGADES. General Casey 4,500 RECAPITULATION. Three corps darrn6e 46 800 Troops in garrison 15 500 Metropolitan Guard 6,500 Provisional brigades, Casey 4,500 One hundred and twenty guns are reported. 73,300 WASHINGTON, September 11, 1862. (Received 8.45 p. in.) Major-General IIEINTZELMAN, tiJommanding: General Fitz John Porters corps will be directed to move to-morrow morning to Brookville, via Leesborough, to report to Genel-al McClellan. The space left by this corps in the defense of Washingtoii will be im- mediately filled by other troops under youi- command. H. W. HALLECK, Chief Page 265 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 265 HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 11, 186212.45 p. in. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, A. A. G., lid qrs. Army of the Potomac, beyond Rockville: The General-in-Chief understood from General McClellan that Gen- eral Barnard was to command all the defenses on the north side of the Potomac; but being informed by General Barnard that he has no such command, wishes me to make that arrangement. Please ask General McClellan if it will meet his views, and let me know his answer as soon as possible. IN. P. BANKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON. Washington, September 11, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, A. A. U., Hdqrs. Army of the Potomac, beyond Rockville: Yesterdays report, which will go to you this afternoon, shows present for duty, in round numbers: Garrisons, 15,200; First, Third, and Fifth Corps, in camp, 46,800; city guards and provisional brigades, 10,500; aggregate for duty, 72,500. r1~here is the old exaggeration in these fig- ures, due to failing to distinguish between for duty and extra or daily duty. Most of the commanders have not found it out yet. Please remember this is yesterdays report. RICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 11 1862.4 p.m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: Some arrangement must be made to collect all the stragglers and con- valescents who are now wandering about Alexandria and Washington, unable to rejoin their regiments, and keep them together until an oppor- tunity offers to send them back. General Banks [thinks] it would be best to establish a general camp hi some central l)osition on the Vir- ginia side, and to order the military governors of Alexandria and the District of Columbia to pick up all stragglers and convalescents and send them there. Please submit your views on the subject. By command of Major-General Banks: IIICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-dc-Camp, and Actg. Asst Adjt Gen. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIIQRs. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 235. ~ Washington, September 11, 1862. * * * * * * lV. Brig. ~4en. Thomas L. Kane, Ii. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the army under Major-General McClellan, and will report to General Casey for (inty with the Provisional Brigade. By command of Major-General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 266 266 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 11, 18621.50 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Report here that Jackson and Lee encamped at Boonsborough last night with 40,000 to 60,000 men, and that the enemy is leaving Fred- erick. D. 5. MILES, Colonel Second Infantry. BALTIMORE, MD., September 11, 18628.20 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W HALLECK, General-in- Chief: On my return to this city I sent you two telegrams on the subject of my leaving this city. I am satisfied it will not (10 to leave at this lime. I (10 not believe that Philadelphia is in the least danger, while Baltimore is in danger from within as well as from without. I, there- fore1 desire to hear from you on the subject, and I will iiot leave until I do. General White informs me that 15,000 rebel infantry, cavalry, and artillery passed through Boonsborough last night. Probable destina- tion, Ilagerstown. JOHN E. WOOL, ]Jiajor- General. WASHINGTON, 1). C., September 11, 1862. Major-General WOOL: Another officer will be detailed for Philadelphia. The Sixth Massa- chusetts should be sent here, unless you need their services in Baltimore. II. ~W. IJALLECK, General-in- Chief. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 11, 186212 noon. NIaj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General~in- Chief: A person living in this city, in whom General [Edward] Shriver has the utmost confidence, says that he was in Frederick yesterday; that the rebels broke up their encampment at 1.30 a. in., and marched in the direc. tion of Hagerstown, Stonewall Jackson leading. lie saw them marching from 5 a. m. until 9 p. rn.1 when he left; principally inftintry and artillery. According to report, three hutidred pieces of artillery, with some very large ones. Hesavs Generals Lee and Jackson, Brigadier-Geiieral Cobb, an(I several other generals, were present. Brigadier-General Walker was still to pass with his brigade. He saw, as lie supposed from reports, 5,000 cavalry near New Market, which had iiot yet left. He saw many pieces of cannon, with the letters U. S.; also in any horses, mules, and wagons, with the same letters. The report was that the troops were going into Pennsylvania. The informant further says that the people were not umider any restraint, and had permission to come and go as they pleased. JOHN E. WOOL, iijliajor-General Page 267 CWU?. XXXI.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIO~. 267 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 11, 1862. Governor CURTIN, ff~rrisburg, Pci.: I have telegraphed to General McClellan to send General Reynolds here, to take command in Pennsylvania. General Wool was assigned yesterday, but has been relieved at his own request. Until an officer is assigned to command, it will be impossible to give the orders you ask for. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HARRISBURG, PA., September 11, 186211 a. m. Col. JOHN A. WRIGHT, Willards: Our operator at State line reports that a body of rebel cavalry entered Hagerstown at 9 oclock this morning, proceeded to railroad depot, and thence by road in direction of State line. It is believed that Jackson will move down the Caniberland Valley with at least l)art of his column, and may attack White at Martinsburg with the balance. Whites scouts report that commanication westward has been cut off for two days. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. WASHINGTON, September 11, 186212 m. Hon. ANDREW G. CURTIN: Please tell me at once what is your hi test news from or toward Hagers- town, or of the enemys movements in any direction. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 11, 1862. His Excellency ANDREW G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, Pa.: SIR: The application made to me by your adjutant-general for author- ity to call out the militia of the State of Pennsylvania has received care- ful consideration. It is my anxious desire to afford, as far as I)ossible, the means and power of the Federal Government to protect the State of Pennsylvania from invasion by the rebel forces, and since, in your judg- ment, the militia of the State are required, and have been called upon by you, to organize for home defense and protection, I sanction the call that you have made, and will receive them into the service and pay of the United States to the extent they can be armed, equipped, and use- fully employed. The arms and equipments now belonging to the Gen- eral Government will be needed for the troops called out for the National armies, so that arms can only be furnished for the quota of militia fur- nished by the draft of nine months men, heretofore ordered. But, as arms may be supplied by the militia under your call, these, with the 30,000 in your arsenal, will probably be su~cient for the purpose con- templated by your call. You will be authorized to l)rovide such equip- ments as may be required, according to the regulations of the Unite Page 268 268 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL $tates service, which, upon being turned over to the United States Quartermasters Department, will be paid for at regulation prices, or the rates allowe(l by the Department for such articles. Railroad trans- portation will also be paid for, as in other cases. Such general officers will be 5t1I)plied as the exigencies of the service will permit. Yours, truly, A. LINCOLN. HARRIsBuRG, PA., September 11, 18623.30 p. in. (Received 0.30 p. in.) His Excellency the PRESIDENT: Your dispatch of 12 m. reached me at 2 p. m. At 9 oclock this morn- ing the rebel cavalry occupied Hagerstown. At 12 their pickets were within half a mile of the Pennsylvania line at Greencastle. It is the advance cavalry of Jacksons column. Jacksons troops are represented to be in a very bad condition, a large portion of them without shoes or hats, and with ragged clothing. Cavalry are in better condition well equipped an(l armed, except that they have no carbines. The mayor, cashier of the bank, sheriff, and other loyal citizens have left Hagerstown an(l are now at Greencastle. I have information from a gentleman who saw Jackson and was in his cami) on Monday, between Boonsborough and Middletown. At that time he had about 15,000 troops convened with himmen who expected to enter Pennsylvania. Had no conversation of any importance ~vith the officers. 1 think Jack- sons column has been largely increased since that day. From indications the people of Greencastle expect a dash on that place this afternoon. This is all the news of any consequence since my telegram to the War Department this morning. A. G. CURTIN, Governor. HARRISBURG, PA., September 11, 1862. (Received 8.30 p. mu.) His Excellency the PRESIDENT: I have information this evening of a l)rivate character, which I deem entirely reliable, that the whole of the rebel army has been moved from Frederick, and their destination is ilarrisburg amid Philadelphia. You should order a strong guard placed upon the railway lines from Wash- ington to Harrisburg to-night, and send here not less than 80,000 dis- ciplined forces, and order from New York an(l States east all available forces to concentrate here at once. To this we will add all the militia forces possible, and I think that in a few days we can muster 50,000 men. It is our only hope to save the North and crush the rebel army. Do not suppose for one instant that I ani unnecessarily alarmed. I believe I know all that I have stated to be true. I have had the country ex- amined west of the river to-day by competent military engineers, and their i-el)ort this evening is that defensive works cannot be erected to be useful against 50,000 men. The enemy will bring against us not less than 120,000, with large amount of artillery. The time for decided ac- tion by the National Government has arrived. What mnay we expecU A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania Page 269 CHAP. XXXI.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 269 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 11, 18621.15 p. m. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: I am in hourly expectation of gaining definite news from Ridgeville and New Market. I ought to-day to know definitely whether the enemy are still massed near Frederick; whether they have any force east of the Monocacy; whether they have moved on Hagerstown in large force. I now think that nearly all their available force is on this side of the Potomac. I would urge upon Your Excellency, in the event of their moving upon Pennsylvania, to take sure means to delay their advance by destroying bridges, obstructing the roads, harassing their front, flank, and rear, destroying supplies, & c. This is necessary to enable me to gain time to take the best route to foil their purpose. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. McCain is at Harrisburg. HARRISBURG, September 11, 1862. (Received 8 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN, Rockville: We have advices that enemy broke up whole encampment at Frederick yesterday morning, 3 oclock, and marched in direction of Hagerstown, with over three hundred pieces artillery, large bodies of infantry and cav- alry, Stonewall Jackson leading. Jackson is now in Hagerstown. Man who gives information said rebel army marching 5 a. m. to 9 p. m. yes- terday out of their camps at Frederick. Men all believed they were going to Pennsylvania. We shall need a large portion of your column in this valley to save us from utter destruction. A. G. CUIRTIN, Governor. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Middlebrook, ilfd., September 11, 186211 p. m. (Received 4 a. in., September 12.) His Excellency ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg: Your dispatch just received. I have ordered General Reynolds to re- l)ort to you at the earliest practicable moment. This army is not suffi- ciently strong to divide it, but I rely upon your troops to hold the enemy in check until I can overtake him. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, MD., September 11, 186210 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, 1?ockviUe: I have just received, on my return from Washington, your telegram of this date. The Monocacy Bridge is reported to be totally destroyed, and the masonry of the piers and abutments largely damaged. We have timber and all necessary material at Harpers Ferry. If this can be obtained, an(l our bridge men from that vicinity, with supplies we can command here, our engineer states that by most energetic effort Page 270 270 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Ciair. XXXI. he can pass trains in four days. I will at once direct best possible arrangements to work from this end. You will please advi~, when proper to do so, whether we can depend upon obtaining the materials from Harpers Ferry. You are doubtless aware that in case of necessity we can send trains from Washington to the Monocacy River in five hours, and from Baltimore in four hours. The structures between Monocacy and Harpers Ferry are small, so that if the latter point is held, and the enemy driven from the intermediate line, the road through can be used with but little delay. J. W. GARRETT, President Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. WASHINGTON, September 11, 18624.30 p. m. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Esq., Philadelphia: General McClellan declines to spare General Reynolds from the field. Who else will you have ~ EI)WIN M. STAIN TON. HARRISBURG, PA., September 11, 1862. Hon. E. N. STANTON: Do not know who to name. We still hope that Reynolds will be ordered here to-night. See message from Governor Curtin to the President. THOMAS A. SCOTT. WASHINGTON , D. C., September 12, 18624 a. in. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Clarksburg, Md.: How does it look now ~l A. LINCOLN. WASHINGTON CITY, D. C., September 12, 18625.45 p. in. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Governor Curtin telegraphs me: 1 have advices that Jackson is crossing the Potomac at Williamsport, and probably the whole rebel army xviii be drawn from Maryland. Receiving nothing from Harpers Ferry or Martinsburg to-day, and positive information from Wheeling that the line is cut, corroborates the idea that the enemy is recrossing the Potomac. Please do not let him get off without being hurt. A. LINCOLN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Clarksburg, Md., September 12, 186~ 10 i m. (Received 1.15 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK: My columns are pushing on rapidly to Frederick. I feel perfectly confident that the enemy has abandoned Frederick, moving in two direc Page 271 ChAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 271 tions, viz, on the Hagerstown and Harpers Ferry roads. Fitz. Lee, with four regiments of cavalry and six pieces of artillery, left New Market yesterday for Liberty. They are being followed by Burnsides cavalry. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, ]Iiajor- General, Commanding. e WA~ DEPARTMENT, Washington, Scptcrnber 12, 18621.45 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, 3liddlebrook, Md.: General Porters corps took np its march this morning. On full con- sultation with him, it was deemed best to keep his corps together, and to march it by the Leesborough road. In this we were mdl agreed. Have you any reliable information of enemys force sonth of the Potomac? Is it not I)Ossible to open communication with Harpers Ferry, so that Colonel Miles rorces can co-operate with you? H. W. ILALLECK, General-i r~- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Urbana, Md., September 12, 18625.30 p. m. (Received 4.20 a. in., 13th.) Major-General IIALLECK: I have just learned, by signal from Sugar Loaf Mountain, that our troops are entering Frederick. The remainder of Burnsides troops are between Frederick and New Market. Sumner is near Urbana, with our advance guard thrown out to the Monocacy ; Williams on his right; Franklin on his left; Couch at Barnesville. Cavalry has been sent toward Point of Rocks to ascertain whether there is any force of the enemy in that direction. Buruside has cavalry in pursuit of Fitzhugh Lee, toward Westminster. Should the enemy go toward Pennsylvania I shall follow him. Should he attempt to recross the Potomac I shall endeavor to cut off his retreat. My movements to-morrow will be de. pendent upon information to be received during the night. The troops have marched to-day as far as it was possible and proper for them to move. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. P. S.I have ordered Banks to send eight new regiments to relieve parts of Couchs command left at Offutts Cross-Roads, Seneca, and Conrads and Edwards Ferries. How soon may I expect these troops? Their presence at the points indicated is very necessary. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC Near Urbana., Md., September 12, 18626 l~ m. (Received 4.08 a. in., 13th.) Major-General HALLECK: I learn nothing reliable as to the enemy south of the Potomac. I this morning ordered cavalry to endeavor to open communication with Ha Page 272 272 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL pers Ferry, and in my orders of movement for to-morrow have arranged so that I can go or send to his [Miles] relief, if necessary. I have heard no firing in that direction, and, if he resists at all, I think I can not only relieve him, but place the rebels who attack him in great danger of being cut off. Everything moves at daylight to-morrow. Your message to him this moment received. Will forward by first opportunity. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PoTOMAC, Camp near Urbana, September 12,18629 p. m. (Received 6.50 a. in., 13th.) His Excellency the PRESIDENT: You will have learned by my telegram to General Halleck that we hold Frederick and the line of the Monocacy. I have taken all possible means to communicate with Harpers Ferry, so that I maysend to its relief if necessary. Cavalry are in pursnit of the Westminster party, with orders to catch them at all hazards. The main body of my cavalry and horse artillery are ordered after the enemys main column, with orders to check its march as much as possible, that I may overtake it. If Harpers Ferry is still in onr possession, I think I can save the gar- rison, if they fight at all. If the rebels are really marching into Penn- sylvania, I shall soon be up with them. My apprehension is that they may make for Williamsport, and get across the river before I can catch them. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS RIGHT WING, Two Miles North of Damascus [hid.], Sept. 12, 18625.30 a. m. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Major.General HALLECK, General-in- Chief, and Major.General MCCLELLAIN: A squadron of cavalry has just returned from New Market, and gives us the positive information that the place was evacuated yesterday, the rear leaviiigat 5 p. m. The force there consisted of fourregiments cavalry and six pieces artillery, nnder Fitzhugh Lee. The regiments were small when they first arrived, and in very bad condition, both horses and men, but are said to have received considerable numbers of fresh horses and recruits. Their arms are said to be bad. They had no wagons and about fifty head of cattle. Their main body probably encamped last night at Liberty; their rear at New London. The soldiers all say they are going into Pennsylvania. This much of the information is reliable. The commanding officer of the squadron conversed with some of the citizens of New Market who had been in Frederick, and they all agree in representing that Jackson had been there with a very strong force, and ha.s moved from there in the direction of Hagerstown; and it is also rumored that columns have moved upon the Gettysburg and Har- pers Ferry roads. I can hardly understand how they can be moving on these two latter roads at the same time. lf they are going into Penn- sylvania they would hardly be moving upou the Harpers Ferry road Page 273 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 273 and if they are going to recross, how could they be moving upon Get- tysburg ~ In your communication of yesterday you spoke of a movement upon Urbana. My opinion is that a direct movement upon Urbana and the line of the Monocacy would develop the strength of the enemy, and in all probability drive him beyond it. General iRenos corps will be in New Market early this forenoon; General Hookers corps in the vicinity of IRidgeville. I shall send all the available cavalry with Gibbons bat- teries in the direction of Liberty. My headquarters will be at New Market, where I will await further instructions from you. A. E. BUENSIDE, illitjor- General. HEADQUARTERS RIGHT WING, Damascus, Md., & ptember 12, 18626 a. in. (Received 1.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: GENERAL: My command now occupies New Market and other points in rear on the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. From my re- port to General McClellan (a copy of which you will receive), you can form your opinion as to the propriety of supplying us with subsistence by the railroad. I shall endeavor to open communication with Balti- more to-day. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. UPTONS HILL, September 12, 18628.29 p. in. Lieutenant-Colonel MOKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant- General: Sergeant Griswold, Harris Light Cavalry, has been 9 miles beyond Falls Church, toward Leesburg. Just returned by Vienna. Could hear of no force at Dranesville or Leesburg or beyond. Saw tracks of many wagons at Vienna. Saw woman, who said, at Vienna, the country peo- ple were taking vegetables to Fairfax to sell to enemy; that the enemy visited there; that the Sixth Virginia Cavalry and some infantry were at Germantown, and were going to Alliance; their pickets to-night to Fairfax Court-House. J. M. DAVIES, Golonel, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD CORPS, AR1~IY OF VIRGINIA, Brig. Gen. ~. WILLIA~IS, Bidgeville, AId., September 12, 1862. Assistant Adjutant-General: I have just been shown an order relieving Brigadier-General Reynolds from the command of a division in my corps. I request that the major- general commanding will not heed this order; a scared Governor ought not to be permitted to destroy the usefulness of an entire division of the army, on the eve of important operations. General Reynolds commands a division of Pennsylvania troops of 18 R HVOL XIX, FT I Page 274 274 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXt riot the best character; is well known to them, and I have no officer to till his 1)hIce. It is satisfactory to my muimid that the rebels have rio more intention of going to Harrisburg than they have of going to heaven. It is oniy in the United States that atrocities like this are entertained. Very respectfully, & c., JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General, Commanding Corps. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 12, 1862. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Arlington, Va.: Send Tylers and Allabachs brigades with Porters corps. Brigadier- General Humphreys will command. General Whipple will remain with you, in charge of defenses. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. GENERAL HALLECKS HEADQUARTERS, September 12, 186211.30. General S. WILLIAMS, General McClellans Headquarters: Morell is in motion, and will go as far as possible toward Brookville to-night. Tylers and Allabachs brigades, under Humplireys, will move as soou as possible to-day. I hope to be with you, or near Frederick, to-morrow night, with Morell and Ilumphreys next day. F. J. PORTER, Major- General. WASHINGTON, September 12, 1862. Major-General HEINTZELMAN: Ascertain, if possible, by nieans of your cavalry, the probable forces of the enemy south of the Potomac. Should there be no immediate danger of an attack on that side of the river, I wish to send more forces to General McClellan. In regard to wagons, you must apply to Quar- termasters 1)epartmnent. I have no time for such matters. H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief. ARLINGTON, VA., September 12, 18624 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: I have sent out cavalry patrols, and they can find rio traces of the enemy this side of Drauesville. I have no means of ascertaining the probable force of the enemy beyond that point. S. P. JIEINTZELMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 275 275 CHAP. xXxi.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE POTOMAC, Arlington, September 12, 1862. General BIRNEY, Commanding, Seminary: General Grover is ordered to relieve you, but you will move without waiting for his troops, leaving a staff officer to point out to him the ground now occupied by you. You will please assume command of all troops within your lines, except the garrisons of the forts. There is a cavalry brigade near Fort Blenker. Please direct the commanding offi- cer to send three mounted orderlies to report to General Slough, mili- tary governor of Alexandria. CHAUNCEY MCKEEVER, Chief of Sta~. ALEXANDRIA, YA., September 12, 1862. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, General Hallecks Headquarters: I have received no or(ler from any source to retain any portion of the troops outside of Alexandria, lately nnder my command. General Gro- ver consents that I may use the Thirty-third Massachusetts for a short time, aiid until I can have assigned me other troops. Will you please sen(l me a regiment, for, without one, Alexandria will sooii be in the control of drunken stragglers, as I have not force enough without to preveti t. JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 12, 1862. General MCCLELLAN: The following is a copy of Associated Press report, dated Baltimore, 12th: Last evening, at 7.30 oclock, the rebels made a cavalry rai(l into Westminster, about 500, with two pieces of artillery. As they charged through the village, discharged their pistols on unarmed citizens on the street. C. W. Willister, district attorney, seeing rebels coming, iiiade for the railroad, and, after proceeding about 1 mile, met train from Baltimore, which, on his information, returned immediately. There was at Union Bridge a train of the Western Maryland Railroad (locomotive and two cars), which should have arrived at Westminster at 5 oclock this morning, and in this city at 6 oclock. This train has probably been captured. Federals occupied New Market, on Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 10 miles from Frederick, yesterday. STAGER. BALTIMORE, Mm, September 12, 18622.30 p. in. General JIALLECK, General-in-Chief: You can put any of my troops under McClellans command. They are all on the railroad, in detachments and regiments. I have two regi- ments at the Relay House, one at Ellicotts Mills, one at Elysville, per- haps 7,000 or 8,000 at Harpers Ferry, and two regiments and a battery at Martinsburg. They may be iu his neighborhood, and you can give him authority to use them as you or he may deem proper. I have no available troops except those posted on different railroads. ~iOllN E. WOOL, 4fc~)or- General Page 276 276 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. BALTIMORE, MD., September 12, 1862. General HALLECK: A full regiment is very much needed at Annapolis in place of the Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania, now there, which has 500 men for duty. The paroled prisoners, 4,000 in number, require a strong guard as well as general hospital, railroad, provost-marshal, and camp 01 the regi- ment. Shall I stop one of the new regiments for that purpose ~ JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, MD., September 12, l8627.p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The following telegram just received from Brigadier-General Kelley, at Cumberland: Just advised that Liglitburn has been defeated at Fayette Court-house, and is pur- sued by the enemy down Big Kanawha.* The rebels ~vill, undoubtedly, cross over toward the railroad, and cut oft our supplies. I have, therefore, deemed it proper to order our forces at Cheat Mountain, Elk Water, and Beverly to fall hack to the rail- road, at Webster. The enemy is reported in large force, under Loring, Floyd, and Magruder. All quiet here. JOHN E. WOOL, Mc~jor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Urbana [Md.], September 12, 186211.10 p. m. (Received September 13.) Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Baltimore: GENERAL: As I have not troops available for the purpose, I have the honor to request that you will station guards at all the bridges on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad as far west as the Monocacy. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 12, 186210.35 a. m. Hon. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Your dispatch asking for 80,000 disciplined troops to be sent to Penn- sylvania is received4 Please consider we have not to exceed 80,000 disciplined troops, properly so called, this side of the mountains, and most of them with many of the new regiments are now close in the rear of the enemy supposed to be invading Pennsylvania. Start half of them to Harrisburg and the enemy will turn upon and beat the remain- ing half, and then reach Harrisburg before the part going there, and beat it, too, when it comes. The best possible security for Pennsylvania is putting the strongest force possible into the enemys rear. A. LINCOLN. See Campaign in the Kanawha Valley, West Virginia, September 616, Part I, pp. 10571090. tSee dispateli of 11th, received 8.30 p. in., p.268 Page 277 CHAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 277 HARRiSBuRG, PA., September 12, 1862. (Received 4.15 p. in.) flis Excellency the PRESIDENT: Your message received. Reasons for not sending force entirely satis- factory. We are doing all that is possible to throw forces into the valley to check any movement the rebels may attempt in this (lirection. I have advices that Jackson is crossing the Potomac at Williamsport, and probably the whole rebel army will be drawn from Maryland. A. G. (JURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 12, 1862~ (Received 12.25 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Mr. Rodick, of Hanover, reports that enemy have retreated from Fred- erick to cross the river above, and that General Sigel was shelling their rear guard at Frederick last evening. A. G. (JURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. (Copy for Major-General McClellan, Middlebrook, Md.) HARRISBURG, PA., September 12, 1862. (Received 7 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Send General Reynolds as soon as possible. By telegraphing to the superintendent Northern Central Railroad at Baltimore, an extra train will be prepared for him on arrival at Baltimore. A. G. (}URTJN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 12, 186210 p. in. The PRESIDENT: A reliable gentleman came from Hanover to give me the following information: I left the rebel encampment at Liberty, Md., last night at 12 oclock. I spent twenty-four hours among their men and officers, from whom I learned the following general programme, after satisfying th ~m that I was a citizen of Maryland and favor- able to their cause: They intend to cr~s about 70,000 men, forming their reserve at Williamsport, an(l occupy the Virginia shore as a general depot for all supplies they can gather. Part of this reserve to attack and capture Martinsburg and Harper~s Ferry. The main rebel army to occupy Maryland between Williamsport and Hagers- town, from which they will move on Cumberland Valley and other points in Pennsyl- vania. Their force in Maryland was about 190,000 men. That they have in Virginia about 250,000 men, all of whom are being concentrated to menace Washington and keep the Union armies employed there, while their forces in Maryland (levastate and destroy Pennsylvania. The gentleman who gives me this information is vouched for as relia- ble and truthful by the best citizens of the i)lace where lie lives. I give it to you for consideration. A. C. CURTIN, Governor of Pen nsylva,n ja Page 278 27S OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Cir~r. XXXI. PHILADELPHIA DEPOT, PA., September 12, 1862. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War: Have arranged about howitzers. People at navy-yard strongly ad- vise use of gunboats as most efficient at Susquehanna, Bush, and Gun- powder Rivers. These would make everything there safe. (Jan you do anything to help me get them? They should be light-draught. Tele- graph answer. Am informed there are plenty at Washington. S. M. FELTON. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DEPOT, Carlisle Barracks, Pa., September 12, 1862. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: At the request of His Excellency Gov. A. G. Curtin, I have sent my permanent party, mounted, at daylight this morning, to operate in front of the rebel pickets, between Chambersburg an(l the Maryland line, and to give some degree of confidence to the inhabitants, as ~velL as to prevent a panic, which was rather imminent among the more easily frightened portion of the people in that neighborhood. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient serv- ant, D. H. HASTINGS Captain First Cavalry, Comman~ling. PHILADELPHIA, September 12, 18624 p. m. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: The emergency demands the assignment of a competent general, to take command in this city. Peculiar circumstances affecting our State military organizatiou make such measure absolutely necessary. I join with Governor Curtin ir~ urging this upon your immediate attention, and as1~ing a reply. Very respectfully, ALEX. HENRY. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washi~ton, D. C., September 12, 1862. Hon. ALEXANDER HENRY, Philadelphia: Yours of to-day received. General Halleck has made the best pro vision he can for generals in Pennsylvania. Please do not be offended when I assure you that in my confident belief Philadelphia is in no danger. Governor Curtin has just telegraphed me: I have advices that Jackson is crossing the Potomac at Williamsport, and probably the whole rebel army will be drawn from Maryland. At all events, Philadelphia is more than 150 miles from Hagerstown, and could not be reached by the rebel army in ten days, if flO hiuderarice was interposed. A. LINCOLN Page 279 279 Cnir. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tTNION. BALTIMORE, MD., September 12, 1862. Major-General BANKS: The rebels left Westminster to-day noon; Sonic of their pickets not till 3p. in. Gone toward Uniontown and Smit.hsburg. They were about 400 strong, and two pieces cannon. Said they would be back in stronger force in few days. J. L. MCPHAIL. WHEELING, VA., September 12, 1862. General HALLECK: I would respectfully suggest that Colonel Crook, who was in General Coxs division, be sent to assist Colonel Liglitburn in the command in that section, and that two regiments of Ohio volunteers, who are near the mouth of the Kanawlia, be sent to Lightburn immediately F. H. PEIRPOINT. WASHINGTON, September 12, 1802. JOHN TUCKER, Ju., Philadelphia: What is the news in Philadelphia to.day ~ JOHN TUCKER. PHILADELPHIA, PA., September 12, 1862. (Received 3.30 p. in.) Hon. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War: Dispatch received. Curtin has called 50,000 men to defend the State 20,000 from Philadelphia Home Guards. Expect to go to Harrisburg to-night. There are rumors of placing the city under martial law and suspending business. Shall I go l JOHN TUCKER, JR. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 129. Washington, September 12, 1862. I. The President directs that the First, Second, and Third Corps of the Army of Virginia, announced in General Orders, No. 103, be here- after designated the First, Eleventh, and Twelfth. The several army corps will now stand as follows: The First, Second, Third, and Fourth as arranged in General Orders, No. 151, of March 13, 1862, from the Headquarters Army of the Po- tomac.* The Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth as aiinounced in Gen- eral Orders, No. 84, of July 2~, 1862, from this otlice.t The Tenth as announced in General Orders, No. 123, of September 3, 1862, from this office. The Eleventh and Twelfth the same as the First and Second Corps, Army of Virginia. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. t See Series I, Vol. XI, Part III, p. 333. * See Series I, Vol. V, p. 18 Page 280 280 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP.XXXL GENERAL ORDERS, ~ lln~s. 8TH ARMY CoRps, MIDDLE DEPT., No. 36. f Baltimore, AId., September 12, 1862. So much of General Orders, No. 32, current series from these head- quarters, as confers the command of all the infantryin the city of Bal- timore upon Brig. Gen. John 11. Kenly, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby revoked. Brigadier-General Kenlys command will hereafter consist of the First, Fourth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Regiments Maryland Volun- teers, which are constituted a brigade under his command. By command of Major-General Wool: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, September 112, 1862. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Army of the Potomac: In answer to your telegrams respecting the Eighteenth Maine, and the movement of Morells and Whipples division, late Sturgis, I have the honor to state that General Porter received orders last night, direct Irom the Generalin-Chief, to move to Brookyille this morning with Morells division, and was this morning farther instructed by General Halleck to take Allabachs and Tylers brigades, under the command of Brig. Gen. A. A. llumphreys. For this reason it has been imprac- ticable to execute the commanding generals orders in regard to placing General Porter in command on this side of the river, and I have, by direction of the Genera1-in-Chief~ placed General Barnard in command of the troops and works for the immediate defense of Washington on the north side. General Stoneman is to report to General Heintzelman for the command of Kearnys division. General Whipple remains in com- mand of certain works, as before, with Piatts brigade added. I hear from Baltimore that about 500 rebel cavalry and artillery were in West- minster last night about 7 oclock. Westminster is about 30 miles north- east of Frederick and about 28 by good pike from Baltimore. There is now a railway from Union Bridge to Relay House, on Northern Central Railroad, l)assing through Westminster. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D - C., September 13, 186210.45 a. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Yours of 5.30 p. m. yesterday is just received. General Banks cannot safely spare eight new regiments from here. You must remember that very few troops are now received from the North, imearly all being stopped to guard the railroad. Four regiments were ordered to General Dix to replace Peeks division. Porter yesterday took away over 20,000. Until you know more certainly the enemys force south of the Poto- mac, you are wrong in thus uncovering the capital. I am of opinion that the enemy will send a small column toward Pennsylvania~, so as to (Ira w- your forces in that direction; then suddenly move on Wash- ington with the forces south of the Potomac and those he may cross over. In your letter of the 10th [11th?] you attach too little importance, to the capital. I assure you that you are wrong. The capture of thi Page 281 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 281 place will throw us back six months, if it should not destroy us. Be- ware of the evils I now point out to you. You saw them when here, but you seem to forget them in the distance. No more troops can be sent from here till we have fresh arrivals from the North. II. W. IJALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS, Frederick, September 13, 186212 m. (Received 2.35 a. in., September 14.) To the PRESIDENT: I have the whole rebel force in front of me, but am confident, and no time shall be lost. I have a difficult task to perform, bat with Gods 1)lessing will accomplish it. I think Lee has made a gross mistake, and that he will be severely punished for it. The army is in motion as rap. idly as possible. I hope for a great success if the plans of the rebels remain unchanged. We have possession of Catoctin. I have all the plans of the rebels, and will catch them in their own trap if my men are equal to the emergency. 1 now feel that I can count on them as of old. All forces of Pennsylvania should be placed to co-operate at Chain- bersburg. My respects to Mrs. Lincoln. Received most enthusiastically by the ladies. Will send you trophies. All well, and with Gods bless- ing will accomplish it. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN. FREDERICK CITY, MD., September 13, 186211 p. m. (Received 1 p. in., September 14.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: An order from General B. E. Lee, addressed to General D. II. Hill, which has accidentally come into my hands this eveningthe authen- ticity of which is unquestionablediscloses some of the plans of the enemy, and shows most conclusively that the main rebel army is now before us, including Longstreets, Jacksons, the two Hills, McLaws, Walkers, R. H. Andersons, and Hoods commands. That army was ordered to march on the 10th, and to attack and capture our forces at Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg yesterday, by surrounding them with such a heavy force that they conceived it impossible they could escape. They were also ordered to take possession of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad; afterward to concentrate again at Boonsborough or Hagers- town. That this was the plan of campaign on the 9th is confirmed by the fact that heavy firing has been heard in the direction of Harpers Ferry this afternoon~ and the columns took the roads specified in the order. It may, therefore, in my judgment, be regarded as certain that this rebel army, which I have good reasons for believing amounts to 120,000 men or more, and know to be commanded by Lee in person, in- tended to attempt penetrating Pennsylvania. The officers told their friends here that they were going to Harrisburg and Philadelphia. My advance has pushed forward to-day, and overtaken the enemy on the Middletown and Harpers Ferry roads, and several slight engagements have taken place, in which our troops have driven the enemy from their position. A train of wagons, about three-quarters of a mile long, was destroyed to-day by the rebels in their flight. We took over 50 prison- ers. This army marches forward early to-morrow morning, and will make forced marches~to endeavor to relieve Colonel Miles, but I fear Page 282 282 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL unless he makes a stout resistance, we may be too late. A report caine in just this moment that Miles was attacked today and repulsed the enemy, but I do not know what credit to attach to the statement. I shall do everything in my power to save Miles if he still holds out. Portions of Burnsides and Franklins corps moved forward this even- ing. I have received your dispatch of 10 a. m. You will perceive, from what I have stated, that there is but little probability of the enemy being in much force south of the Potomac. I do not, by any means, wish to be understood as undervaluing the importance of holding Washing- ton. It is of great consequence, but upon the success of this army the fate of the nation depends. It was for this reason that I said everything else should be made subordinate to placing this army in proper condi- tion to meet the large rebel force in our front. Unless General Lee has changed his plans, I expect a severe general engagement to-morrow. [feel confident that there is now no rebel force immediately threaten- ing Washington or Baltimore, but that I have the mass of their troops to contend with, and they outnumber me when united. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, September 13, 1862. Adjutant-General, U. S. Army: GENERAL: There is no more important arm of the military service than the regular artillery, and none which, during the existing war, has achieved more, and upon which hope for the future success, during the contest, is to rely. It is of the greatest consequence to maintain it in a condition of efficiency. For this end it must be recruited. Out of the twenty-six regular batteries in this army, ten are now but four-gun batteries, when it is of great importance that they should be of six guns, and this for want of cannoneers and drivers. The volunteers serving with the batteries in many cases have de- manded to be returned to their regiments, and I have been compelled, since they have a sort of right to it, to return them. During the pres- ent month and the fall months the terms of service of many men will expire. Thus, the condition of the regular artillery is precarious unless some stimulus is given to the recruiting service. I view it of the highest importance to the country and the service that the six-gun batteries should be increased to eight-gun batteries. We would thus need fewer volunteer batteries would have a more manageable artillery force, at less expense, than we have now, and would have one vastly more reliable. To carry the ten four-gun batteries up to eight-gun batteries would require 100 men each, say, 1,000 men; to carry the sixteen six-gun bat- teries up to eight-gun batteries would require 60 men each, say, 960 men; to fill up the twenty-six batteries, of six guns each, with the proper com- plement of men would require from 1,000 to 1,200 men. I earnestly invite the serious attention of the Adjutant-General and the War Department to the subject of filling up the artillery, and I ask that every means be exhausted to procure 2,000 men for the artillery. I also inclose a memorandum of the number of recruits needed for the regular infantry. The regular infantry regiments are the most reliable foot troops that we have. Their existence is threatened by the paucity and continual diminution of their numbers Page 283 ChAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 283 I earnestly request that if the resources of the War Department can control the matter, that they be used to their utmost to re-enforce the thinned ranks of these regiments. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, lJJiajor- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 254. f Camp near Frederick, Aid., September 13, 1862. * * * * * * * II. Maj. Gen. J. Sedgwick is assigned, temporarily, to the command of the Second (Banks) Corps, late Army of Virginia, and will immediately enter upon duty accordingly. Brig. Gen. 0. 0. Howard will relieve Major-General Sedgwick in the command of his division. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 13, 1862. General SLOUGH, Alexandria, Va.: General Banks wrote me last evening that he would give the proper orders, so that you would be duly supplied with troops. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Washington, September 13, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Upon further consultation with the General-in-Chief~ he has author- ized me to assign General Barnard to duty as chief engineer of all the defenses from the 3d instant, leaving the question of command on the north side as it was previously under Woodbury and ilaskin. I have to~day issued orders to that effect. In regard to General Barnard, the arrangement now conforms to the wishes of the commanding genera]. I hear from Baltimore that the rebels left Westminster about noon yesterday, going toward Uniontown and Smithsburg. They were, it is said, 400 strong and two pieces of cannon, and said they would be back in stronger force in a few days. This I think has been already commu- nicated. What news have you I N. P. BANKS, Major- General. WASHINGTON, September 13, 1862. General D. P. WOODBURY, Commanding over Eastern Branch: GENERAL: The idea I have as to the system of works on the other side is that it is impossible to maintain any line. An enemy in force, say to the north of us, may make a sudden effort that way and break through the intervals. We cannot ha.ve troops enough on that side t Page 284 284 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL prevent it. Certainly this is the case as the matter now stands. If this is correct, the works should be regarded merely as holding the points from which he might shell the city, and, which held, will prevent his operating on that side. With this view, the forts should be kept provided with several days provisions. I think the garrisons ought to be placed more generally inside the works, particularly, as at Mahan, where there is much- space. If there is danger of surprise, and no troops in the neighborhood bnt the garrisons, this is the more important. The belt of woods in front of Davis, Da Pont, and Meigs I meant to have felled with the first work done. It is still standing, as also woods and wooded heights west of Mahan, too near. The guard on the west side of Bennings Bridge would be of no use against a cavalry raid or an attempt to force the passage by an armed force. I think a t~t~-de- pout at Benuings and Navy-Yard Bridges and stockades would prob- ably be best at both positions. There are now siege guns at several of the works, as Mahan and Meigs; siege platforms should be immedi- ately laid for them. The 30-pounder Parrott at Mahan may be removed to Meigs, if you think best. Enough field guns have beeu sent to Fort Ihiker to fill all the platforms, I believe. Would it not be better to dis. tribute them in Davis and Du Pout, where none have been sent 0? If you do it, consider it carefully, so there will be no after-changes, and report it after it is done. You have no idea of the uncertainty which exists as to the actual armament, so many changes having been made lately. I am, very respect fnlly, your most obedient servant, J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier- General. MoNocAcY, MD., September 13, 1862. Colonel STAGER: We have got line strung across river and built to old office. Line down very badly between here and Frederick, 3 miles. Mr. Kelty, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad operator, gone to Frederick with instru- ments. I go as soon as I can build line. We want wire, and materials to get both wires up. No authentic news, except that rebel wagon- train was captured this a. in., and that we have many prisoners. Heavy firing at or near Harpers Ferry until about 3 ~. m. Rumored that large portion of rebel army has recrossed into Viu-ginia. Have seen member of Brigadier-General Kimballs staff, who promised to inform command- ers that we were in communication. Have you any orders 0? F. T. BICKFORD. UPTONS HILL, VA., September 13, 1862. Lieutenant-Colonel MCKEEVER, 6~UeJ oj ~ ArUngton: I have to report that I seut Captain Griuton, Harris Light Cavalry, to Dranesville and beyond, toward Leesburg. He proceeded to within about a mile of Goose Creek, some 6 miles from Leesburg, aud about 22 miles from here. Ife heard from many sources that Leesburg was aban- doned, and thinks it so. He could hear of no force toward Vienna. He found a servant deserted from his master at Frederick on Wednesday, and who left Leesbnrg at 10 to-day. I shall send him in the morning, as directed, and his examination for verification. The man lives nea Page 285 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 285 Falls Church, and has a good character. Allow me to say Captain Grinton has performed his duty in a very satisfactory manner. The scouting ])arty from the Occoquan has not yet reported. I sent two scouts to Leesburg, and one, disguised, to where the enemy are. * * * * * * * J. M. DAVIES, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry. DAMASCUS, Mn., September 13, 1862. Cols. ANSoN STAGER: A courier who left Burnsides headquarters at Frederick at 8 oclock this morning, just arrived. lie reports that General iReno, of General Burnsides army, led the second and successful charge into Frederick, our first charge proving futile. The rebels made a (letermined stand at first, but broke and ran pell-mell, closely I)urslled by our cavalry. After running 6 miles, the rebels made another stand, near the turnpike, to left, near mountain, when both armies reste(l for the night, but at day- break our cavalry and artillery moved forward and opened heavy fire on the rebels, who fell back slowly and in good order. As the courier was leaving Frederick, our artillery was shelling the woods briskly, and General Hookers corps was beginning to move forward. Yesterday~s fight. was exclusively an artillery and cavalry fight on our side. As General Buruside entered Frederick, he was cheered by the inhabitants, who waved Union flags and shouted, Hurrah for Buruside. Fred. crick is once more redeemed. DOLAN, Operator. POINT OF ROCKS, MD., September 13, 1862. Colonels SANFORD and STAGER: The enemy are at Knoxville and Weverton. They have cut the canal to cross into Virginia. Their wagon-train is moving toward the river very fast from Jefferson. J. II. FRALICK, Acting Signal Officer. [SEPTEMBER 13], 1862. Colonel STAGER: There was heavy firing on the north side of Blue Ridge until 3 p. in., indicating that a portion of the enemys trool)s were passing through Solomons Gap toward Wilhiamsport. ISAAC J. hARVEY, First Lieutenant and Signal Officer. WAR I)EPARTMENT, Washington, September 13, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: We cannot at present spare more tl-ool)s for Annapolis. General Mc- Clellan has taken so large a force into the field that all Ihe new troops - we can get for the present are wanted here. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 286 286 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Oiiir. XXXI BALTIMORE, MD., September 13, 18626 a. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Generals Lee and Jackson passed North Mountain Station yesterday at 12 in., west of Martinsburg, with a force of 20,000 men, toward Mar- tinsburg. No firing having been heard, it was thought General White had left Martinsburg. Colonel Campbell further reports that it is said Longstreet will cross at Hancock, and that a large force is advancing on New Creek from Strasburg. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. P. 5.The above is from Brigadier-General Kelley, Cumberland. BALTIMORE, MD., September 13, 18626.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. fl. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Brigadier-General Kelley reports as follows: Colonel Campbell telegraphs that Longstreets division is now crossing the Poto- mac into Virginia, at Williamsport, and going toward Martinsburg. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HDQRS. MIDDLI~ DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., September 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief, Washington: GENERAL: I have been importuned to furnish troops to enforce the enrollment of the militia of Maryland. I have refused the application, first, because I have no troops to spare; secondly, the exercise of the power would be an offense solely cognizable by the civil authorities, and not by the military tribunals. An application will no doubt be made to the War Department for troops to be used for the above purpose. Should the Secretary of War decide in favor of the application, I would recommend that one of the Maryland regiments now being raised be placed exclusively under the direction of the Governor, as I am in no respect willing to become re- sponsible for the arrests made by Provost-Marshal McPhail or his deputies. One of these deputies has sent here for confinement 5 or 6 men, who have been arrested on mere suspicion. Whosoever orders the con ilnement of these men will be subject to the penalty of false im- l)risonment. It is for refusing to confine men on mere rumor and sus- picion that the Jacobins of this city induced the President to consent to have me removed from this department. Herewith you will receive a copy of my order on the subject of arrests and confinements. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. [Inclosure.] GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. EIGHTII A. C., MIDDLE DEPT., No. 30. Baltimore, September 1, 1862. W. A. Van Nostrand, city marshal of Baltimore, is this day appointed civil provost-marshal for the Eighth Army Corps, Middle Department, ~ul)ject or~iy to the orders of the ~er~lm~nding general Page 287 CHAP. XXXT.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC UNION. 287 As provost-marshal, he will have charge of all political prisoners ar- rested or confined, until disposed of by order of the commanding gen- eral,to whom the marshal will report daily all prisoners arrested, with the charges and specifications against them. As many persons have been arrested and confined upon frivolous charges, and others upon rumor or suspicion, no citizen or other person not a soldier, within the limits of this department, will hereafter be arrested or confined upon charges of disloyalty or treasonable practices, unless the charges and specifications shall have first been submitted in writing to the provostmarshal, setting forth in what respect and at what time he may have been disloyal or guilty of tr~sonable practices, and the truth of which attested under the solemnity of an oath, by the person preferring them; and no such accused person 6r prisoner in this department will be held by any provost-marshal, civil or military, or commandant of post, under the control of the commanding general, until after the charges, as above described and attested, shall have been transmitted to him for his action and orders in the case. The military and civil provost-marshals will, actively and vigilantly, cooperate in preserving the peace and order of the city, under special instructions to be given from time to time by the commanding general. The duties of the first will, in general, be limited to the military sta- tioned in and about Baltimore; and, of the second, to civil persons; but both will aid each other, when necessary, in the discharge of the duties required of them. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General, Commanding. HARRISBURG, PA, September 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: When may we expect General Reynolds here ~ Services needed im- mediately. Longstreets division is said to have reached Hagerstown last night. Jackson crossed Potomac at XYilliamsport to capture Mar- tinsburg and Harpers Ferry. We are assembling militia rapidly at (Dhambersburg. Can we do anything to aid your movements? A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 13, 1862. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Two orders have been sent to General Reynolds, but his movements in the field may have delayed their reaching him. He was expected to leave for Harrisburg last night. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HARRISBURG, PA., September 13, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: The enemy, in force of 3,000 infantry and some cavalry, occupied Middleburg, on Pennsylx~ania line, 7 oclock this evening. Heavy can- nonading heard ip peighborhood of Nartinsbnrg from 11 this a. m. till 3 this p. m. A. G. CURTIN, & orn3rn~or of Peansyl~.aaia Page 288 288 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 13, 1862. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Your two dispatches received toget;her. No regiments of volunteers to be retained at Harrisburg. All must be sent here for the present. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. Major.General HPLLECK, HARRISBURG, PA., September 13, 1862. aeneral-in- Chief: GENERAL: I have just reached this place, having left Burusides army yesterday at IRidgeville. From the situation of affairs in front of the army there and the news received here this evening from Green- castle, the demonstrations of the enemy look in this direction to me particularly. I am fully impressed that the iiitention has been for some time entertained by them to invade this section of the State. In order that what can be done here may, in a measure, co-operate with the movements of that army, will you please advise me, as far as possible, of the situation in the lines, whenever it can be done ~l I think if the Reserve Corps could be spared from the army in front of Washington and dispatched here, it would be of great assistance in forming and or- ganizing the new troops assembling at this point. I have no hope that this request will meet with favor from the commanding general of the troops, yet I cannot but think that it would prove a judicious move in the end. If the Reserve cannot be sent, there is one of its batteries re- cruiting in Washington which might be very well spared, and there is nothing here of that arm as yet. Lieutenant Amsdens is the battery I allude to. Respectfully, JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 13, 1862. Gov. F. H. PEIRPOINT, IVheeling, Va.: As soon as I can find where General Crook now is, I will give him orders. He was supposed to be iu Western Virginia. H. W. HALLECK, General.in- Chief. GENERAL MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, September 14, 186211.15 a. m. (Received 12 in.) Ma]. Gen. H. W. HALLEOK, General-in- Chief: We occupy Middletown and Jefferson. The whole force of the enemy in front. They are not returning to Virginia. Look well to Chambers- burg. Shall lose no time. Will soon have a decisive battle. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- Gencral Page 289 CHAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 289 WASHINGTON, D. C., September 14, 1862. (Sent 1.30 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN: Yoirrs of 11.15 is just received. Scouts report a large force still on Virginia side of the Potomac, near Leesburg. If so, I fear you are exposing your left flank, and that the enemy can cross in your rear. Can you not ascertain the fact from Sugar Loaf Mountain? Hearing that you had withdrawn all troops from the river below Conrads Ferry, I directed General Banks to supply their place. I do not understand what you mean by asking me to look out for Chambersburg. I have no troops to send there. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 14, Via Point of Rocks, Md., September 15, 18622 p. in. General HALLECK, General-in- Chief, U. S. Army: We are firing the passes of the Blue Ridge. Have possession of the heights on the left of Hagerstown pike; are now attacking the right. Franklin is attacking the Rockville [Cramptons] Pass, through the same ranges. Thus far all goes well. Have taken about 100 prisoners. I have the troops in hand. They are confident, and hope to have full possession of the passes by dark. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Three miles beyond Middletown, Md., Sept. 14,18629.40 p. in. (Received 1 a. in., 15th.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: After a very severe engagement, the corps of Hooker and Reno have carried the heights commanding the Hagerstown road. The troops behaved magnificently. They never fought better. Franklin has been hotly engaged on the extreme left. I do not yet know the result, ex- cept that the firing indicated progress on his part. The action con- tinued until after dark, and terminated leaving us in possession of the entire crest. It has been a glorious victory. I cannot yet tell whether the enemy will retreat during the night or appear in increased force in the morning. I am hurrying up everything from the rear, to be pre- pared for any eventuality. I regret to add that the gallant and able General Reno is killed. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, [Major. General.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 14, 1862. General FITZ JOHN PORTER, Commanding Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general desires you to move up as rapidly 19 R RYOL XIX, PT I Page 290 290 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL as possible, guarding your flanks well. Please order all troops you may overtake coming this way to come forward with you. We moved for- ward this morning to attack the enemy. Very respectfully, B. B. MARCY Chief of L~taff. (Received at Middletown [Md.], and sent to Genera] McClellan, September 14, 1862.) General MCCLELLAN: I have gained the ridge on left of road opposite to where their bat- tery was. We shelled it, and they have taken it off. This morning they had a heavy force of infantry on right, in the woods on mountains, com- manding batteries. Their guns have been withdrawn, and Reno is send- ing a brigade in that direction. General Coxs division is on our left, and I am moving up cautiously at Burkittsville. Enemy have 1,500 cavalry and three guns. The Sixth and First Cavalry are at Jefferson, and are scouting well over toward Harpers Ferry. PLEASONTON. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. . in the Field, September 14, 1862. Maj. Gen. A. E. Burnside is assigned to the command of the right wing of this army, which will be composed of his own and Hookers corps. The Second Corps (Banks), late Army of Virginia, is placed, until further orders, under the command of Maj. Gen. E. V. Sumner, com- manding Second Corps, Army of the Potomac. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, September 14, 1862. Major-General BANKS, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: The inclosed telegram is this moment received. Why Edwards Ferry has been left entirely unprotected I cannot understand. The only remedy now is for you to immediately send there some force nearest to the place. This should be done without a moments delay. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK General-in-Chief. [Inclosure.] EDWARDS FERRY, MD., September 14,1862. WAR DEPARTMENT: The entfre line of the river is open from here to Seneca Creek, 8 miles below me, and up to Conrads Ferry, 6 or 5 miles west. I have but S men at this place. Please send me force or say what I shall do, as I am cut off from my headquarters at Harpers Ferry, and can hear noth- ing from there. There was a regiment here until this morning, when they were ordered away. Please answer. Your obedient servant, W. H. H. YONTZ, Captain, Commanding Post Page 291 Cxii. XXII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 291 HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 14, 18621.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTzEL~rAN, Arlington: The General-in-Chief directs that General Stoneman proceed without delay to the Upper Potomac, with six regiments of his own division, to take command, also, of the two regiments and battery now there. He is to guard the crossings from Great Falls to Point of Rocks, having his main force at some central position, such as Poolesviile, to be selected by him. General McClellan telegraphs that the affair yesterday at base of South Mountain was a complete success at all points. The enemy are in a full retreat. All the troops, new and old, he says, behaved splendidly. General iReno was killed. Please acknowledge. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. WASHINGTON, September 14, 1862. Major-General BANKS, Commanding Defenses, & e.: GENERAL: On examining Fort Lyon I find there is an immense quan- tity of work required to put it in a proper condition. It is a very large work, and requires a garrison of 1,400 men for defense, at a minimum estimate. It is now occupied by three companies of the Third New York Artillery Battalion, numbering between 300 and 400 men. They would suffice to serve the guns, though I think it would be better, as few of the guns at Fort Ellsworth have now any bearing, unless our outer line is forced, to take the fourth company of this battalion from the latter work and send it to Fort Lyon. I think there should also be a regiment assigned to Fort Lyon as a part of its permanent garrison. If one of the new regiments can be found, commanded by an experienced colonel, it would answer the pur- pose. It will probably be said that an old regiment cannot be spared. - However that may be, some course should be immediately taken that will insure a proper defense of this work if attacked. The other works are much smaller, and if they have not their infantry garrisons in them, they are close by, and there are experienced officers in general charge, who would know how to post them. Fort Lyon is isolated. Whoever commands this work, in case of attack, must have studied it, and made himself familiar with its arrangements. As it is, it would be likely that if a force would be thrown in, in case of sudden advance of the enemy, quite unacquainted with their duties, that there would be discordance between the new commander and the present artillery com- mander. My duties as the engineer do not permit me to keep myself informed as to the dispositions and changes of dispositions of troops, and I can only state the necessity, without being able to say exactly how to meet it. If a regiment is sent to Fort Lyon, I would be able from it to obtain details for the work to be done in and near it. I need 400 men, at least (a daily detail), around Fort Lyon, and an equal num- ber for work on lines between Forts Ward and Worth, and between Forts Worth and Lyon. Hookers old division is encamped near these works, but the commanders are very reluctant that their men should now work. There appears to be a large force of troops near Fort Ells- worth. If there is to be any stability in their position, these would fur- nish the necessary details. I do not wish to excite the idea of grea Page 292 292 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD, AND PA. [CuAr. XXXL weakness, which the work I propose to do is to remedy, for even now the position is strong, but the auxiliary work would make it stronger, and some portions of it very important. I believe there are two or three companies of the New York Second Artillery in Fort Runyon. It does not seem necessary to keep experienced artillerymen in a work where there are but two guns, and which cannot come into play, except in the last desperate extremity, that we are forced to abandon the other shore. The foregoing remarks may serve to show you the necessity of more permanence in command, more system in assignments of garrisons, and in control of the artillery. All last winter an artillery officer of high rank had control of all the artillery, and, I believe, all the artillerymen. There never was a time when it was of more importance than now. I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. G. BARNARD, Brigadier- General. UPTONS HILL, VA., September 14, 1862. nant-Colonel MOKEEVER, Chief of Staff, Arlington: I have to report return of two scouts of Harris Light Cavalry from Leesburg early this morning. There are 300 sick there; no others. The last brigade left on Friday for Winchester; it was 2,500 strong. Another brigade left the day before for Harpers Ferry. As far as they could learn, there is no enemy between Harpers Ferry and Leesburg. The force at Winchester is reported large, and General Johnston, who came from Gordcnsville, is said to be commander there. There was heavy firing heard at Leesburg yesterday evening, and this morning in the direction of Harpers Ferry; also, on their return, the first seemed near- est and the last farthest. It may be of use to state that, though in uni- form, they found no difficulty to pass for secession soldiers. Many of the sick said they hoped to be captured, to be paroled. J. M. DAVIES, Colonel, Commanding Gavalry Brigade. POOLESYILLE, Mm, September 14, 1862. General HALLECK, General-in Chief, U. S. Army: We proceeded on the Virginia shore to Dranesville, and, from infor- mation that we received, Generals Longstreet and Hill were at Lees- burg. They were to cross at the Point of Rocks. Our troops are at Seneca. They crossed at Long Acre Bottom. Heavy cannonading on our right between Frederick and Sugar Loaf Mountain. W. J. GAINES. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 14, 1862. Brigadier-General REYNOLDS, flarrisburg, Pa.: We cannot now divide our army to send the Reserves to Harrisburg. We must be prepared to meet the enemy with all our available forces united. H. W. HALLECK General-inl~hie Page 293 Gnu-. XXXI.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.lJNION. 293 HARRISBURG, PA., September 14, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: Telegram from Greencastle this evening says that our pickets have advanced over the State line, and are now in Maryland, on all the roads leading to Hagerstown. Have been within 3 miles of the latter place. The rebel pickets have fallen back, showing a bold front until within a few hours8.30 p. m. Scouts report Longstreets division moving east, on the Boonsborough road, to-day. JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Brigadier- General Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF PENNSYLVANIA, Harrisburg, Pa., September 14,1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: It is necessary to have a considerable cavalry force in the Cumberland Valley. We have abundant offers of men and horses, but have no equipments. Can YOU direct the Ordnance Bureau to furnish us, at the earliest moment, equipments and carbines for 3,000 cavalry? Please answer. JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, MIx, September 14, 186210.15 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Brigadier-General Kelley telegraphs that the enemy have taken Bom- ney with a force of 2,500 men. He calls for re-enforcements. I have none to send him. McClellan has command of all the troops from liar- pers Ferry to Martinsburg. I have ordered .a regiment to Monocacy. We have the road to Frederick, and have sent rations to that place, and more are called for. It would be a great loss if the enemy should destroy the road to Cumberland. It is thought that the destruction of the Pennsylvania road would follow. JOHN E. WOOL, ]Jlajor- General. HARRISBURG, PA., September 14, 1862. The PRESIDENT: The enemy hold possession with infantry and cavalry 4 miles from Greencastle. Heavy cannonading on south. It is supposed to be along Potomac near Harpers Ferry. We are massing forces rapidly, our peo- ple responding to the call in a most wonderful manner. Our organiza- tion, we hope, will deter movements upon the interior of Pennsylvania. A. G. CURTIN, Gorernor of Pennsylvania. COLUMBLTS, Onto, September 14, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Governor Peirpoint, who is with me this morning, joins me in recom- mending that you attach Western Virginia to Major-General Wrights command. Ohio troops must be sent into Western Virginia. DAVID TOD, Governor Page 294 294 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA, MD., AND VA. rCnAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Bolivar, Md., September 15, 18628 a. m. (Received 12.25 p. in.) Maj. Gen. Th W. IIALLECK, General-in- Chief: 1 have just learned from General Hooker, in the advance, who states that the information is perfectly reliable that the enemy is making for Shepherdstown in a perfect panic; and General Lee last night stated I)ublicly that he must admit they had been shockingly whipped. I am hurrying everything forward to endeavor to press their retreat to the utmost. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS, Bolivar, Md., September 15, 18628 a. m. (Received 2 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Okief, U. S. Army: I am happy to inform you that Franklins success on the left was as complete as that on the center and right, and resulted in his getting l)ossession of the Bnrkittsville Gap, after a severe engagement. On all parts of the line the troops, old and new, behaved with the utmost steadi- iiess and gallantry, carrying, with but little assistance from our own artil- lery, very strong positions, defended by artillery and infantry. I do not think our loss very severe. The corps of D. H. Hill and Longstreet were engaged with our right. We have taken a considerable number of pris- oners. The enemy disappeared during the night. Our troops are now advancing in pursuit of them. I do not know where he will be found. The morale of our men is now restored. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, THREE MILES BEYOND MIDDLETOWN, Mn., Bolivar, Md., September 15, 18629 a. m. Major-General BANKS: I think that, under present circumstances, it will be well for you to move the greater part of your command to the south side of the Poto- mac. I do not consider that any danger to Washington is now to be feared from the north side of the river. GEO. B. McCLELLAI~ Major- General, tJomrnanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Bolivar, Md., September 15, 186210 a. m. (Received 1.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief, U. S. Army: There are already about 700 rebel prisoners at Frederick, under very insufficient guard, and I shall probably send in a larger number to-day Page 295 CHAP. XX~1J CoIll~tSlONDtNCt, tTC.-~--tJNION. 295 It would be well to have them either paroled or otherwise disposed of as Frederick is an inconvenient place for them. Information this mo- ment received completely confirms the rout and demoralization of the rebel army. General Lee is reported wounded and Garland killed. Hooker alone has over 1,000 more prisoners. It is stated that Lee gives his loss as 15,000. We are following as rapidly as the men can move. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Gommandin~g. CAMP NEAR BooNSBoRoUGH, MD., September 15, 1802. Lient. Gen. WENFIELD SCOTT, West Point: We attacked a large force of the enemy yesterday, occupying a strong mountain pass, 4 miles west of Middletown. Our troops, old and new reo-iments, behaved most valiantly and gained a signal victory. H. E. Lee in command. The rebels routed, and retreating in disorder this morning. We are pursuing closely and taking many prisoners. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major. General. WASHINGTON, P. C., September 15, 18623 p. m. Hon. J. K. DuBois, Springfield, Ill.: I now consider it safe to say that General McClellan has gained a great victory over the great rebel army in Maryland, between Freder- icktown and Hagerstown. He is now pursuing the flying foe. A. LiNCOLN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 15, 1862. General BURNSIDE: GENERAL: Reliable intelligence received by General Hooker, and by huin communicated to these headquarters, represents a demoralized condition of the enemy, who are retreating in disorder toward the Shepherdstown Ferry. They confess to have been seriously defeated yesterday. If; as you advance, you find this information to be corroborated, the general wishes yon to follow the enemy up by Porterstown and Sharps- burg. Keep open your communication with Sumner, on the right, and Franklin, on the left. Take no wagons with you except ammunition wagons and ambulances. Use effectual precautions to make it certain that your baggage wagons will be kept out of the road. They will be sent forward as soon as practicable, by orders from here. The foregoing is commnnicated by command of Major-General Mc- Clellan. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General Page 296 296 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. LOHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 15, 186212.30 p. in. Major-General PORTER: GENERAL: General McClellan desires me to say that J3urnsides corps has not yet marched. Should the march of Sykes division be obstructed by Bnrnsides troops, direct General Sykes to push by them and to put his division in front. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. Llndorsement.] Bnrnsides corps was not moving three hours after the hour designated for him, the day after South Mountain, and obstructed my movements. I, therefore, asked for this order, and moved by Barnsides corps. F. J. P. HEADQUARTERS NEAR BROWNSVILLE, September 15, 18623 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: GENERAL: I made a demonstration on my left this morning at the gap, on the left of Burkittsville, with two regiments of infantry and a section of horse artillery. The enemy has begun to retreat, although I hardly consider that due to the demonstration. Smith is in pursuit, with a brigade and battery, and will do good service. Under your last orders, I do not feel justified in putting my whole command in motion toward the front, but shall act according to the dic- tates of my judgment, as circumstances may occur. I have sent a squadron of Lancers to communicate with General Burn- side. If they succeed in getting to him, the news from him may change my intentions. I shall, however, try to carry out the spirit of your orders as nearly as possible. Truly, yours, W. B. FRANKLIN, Major- General, Commanding Sixth Corps. [P. S.]I hear from General Smith that the enemy is drawing off through the valley too fast for him. I shall start for Sharpsbnrg at once. HDQRS. SIXTH CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 15, 18623.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: GENERAL: I send with the guard an aide-de-camp of General J. E. B. Stuart, who says that he was bearing a message fi-om General Jack- son to General Lee, at Keedysville; that the white hag was raised at Harper~s Ferry this morning at 9.30, and that he was to take possession immediately. He was captured by General Howe of Couchs division, at Rohrersville, and thinks the name of the town is Keedysville. He says that General Stuart is between Keedysville and Harpers Ferry. Respectfully, W. B. FRANKLIN, Major- General, Commanding Sixth Corps Page 297 (ThAl~. ~XL) Co1ll~ESPONlA~NCI~, EI~C .IJNION. 297 IIDQRS. SIXTH Conrs, ARMY or THE PoToMAC, & ptcrnber 15, 18624 p. In. Maj. Geii. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: GENERAL: In consequence of the last orders received from you, I shall await farther orders here. 1 have communicated with General Burnside between Centreville [Keedysville] and Boonsborough. He has nothing to corn inunicate. I have not moved toward Sharpsburg. There is a pass opposite, west of Brownsville, through which part of the enemy retreated to-day. Truly, yours, W. B. FRANKLIN, ilfajor.General, Commanding Sixth Corp8. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Keedysrille (Centreville), September 15, 18629 p. m. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM B. FRANKLIN: Your dispatches of 3.15 p. m. and 4 p. m. have been received. Sum- ners, Hookers, and Banks move immediately. Mansfields and Burn- si(les corps are here. The regulars are also here, and the remainder of Porters corps is at Middletown. The enemy was found in position in considerable force this afternoon, just beyond this place. The troops have not been able to come up sufficiently to-day to enable us to attack the enemy, but a reconnaissance will be made at daylight, and if he is found to be in posi. tion, he will be attacked. The general wishes you to send out to-night a squa(lron of cavalry to l)icket the Frederick pike. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Lieut. Gol., Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt.Gen. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. . Jim the Field, September 15, 1862. I. The operation of the Special Orders of yesterdays date, assigning General Burnside to the command of the right wing, owing to the neces- sary separation of the Third [First] Corps, is temporarily suspended. General Hooker will report direct to these headquarters. II. Brig. Gen. J. K. F. Mansfield is temporarily assigned to the corn- mnand of Banks corps. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General WASHINGTON, September 15, 1862. Major-General BANKS: GENERAL: The General-in-Chief directs that a camp be established near the fortifications for the stragglers of the army, hereafter collected in this city. They will be provisionally organized into companies and regiments, according to the corps to which they belong, and officered by officers who arrive in the city en route to their commands. They will be sent to join their corps when their number renders it necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 298 298 OPEI~ATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., Ml)., AND PA. ~CI1Ar. ~XXl. WAShINGTON, & ptember 15, 1862. Major-General BANKS, Commanding, ~c.: GENERAL: Please send a division of old and new troops as a guard to the crossings between Great Falls and Point of Rocks. The main body should take some central position, so as to act, as circumstances may require, on either of the fordssay at IDawsonville or Poolesville, the point to be selected by the commander. I recommend Brigadier- General Stoneman for this command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General .in.Chi ef. ARLINGTON, September 15, 186212.25. General HEINTZELMAN: Colonel Davies, commanding cavalry brigade, proposes to send this afternoon ten companies of cavalry and a section of artillery to Aldie Gap, on Bull Run Mountain, four companies to proceed toward Snickers and Ashbys Gaps, to intercept the enemys supply train for Winchester. Aldie is about 30 miles from Uptons Hill, and the scouting party would go about 10 or 12 miles farther. The expedition should start this after- noon and be back by to-morrow night. Colonel Davies thinks much information might be gained, many stragglers taken, and it would threaten the enemys rear and flank, and might create a diversion in favor of our forces at Harpers Ferry. CHAUNCEY McKEEVER, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 186212 m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The General-in-Chief directs General Banks to send a division of old and new troops to guard the crossing from Great Falls to Point of Rocks, and recommends General Stoneman for the command. General Banks is inclined to think it best under this order to give General Stoneman one brigade of his own division, or two, if necessary, and a brigade of new troops, including the Thirty-ninth Massachusetts and Tenth Ver- mont, already up the river. He desires to have your views. Has Gen- eral Stoneman joined ~l Please answer immediately. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 18622 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Bolivar, Three Miles beyond Middletown: Your telegram of 9 a. m. received 1.30. I congratulate you upon your great success. By direction of the General-in-Chief, General Stoneman is ordered to proceed at once to the Upper Potomac with six regiments of his division, and also to take command of two new regiments and a battery sent up last night, for the purpose of guarding the crossing Page 299 (JITAl. XXXI.l OORt~ESPONDt~CI~, tTC .-~-tJNtON. 299 from Great Falls to Point of Rocks. He is to have his main force at a central point, to be selected by him, such as Poolesville. I will send all Caseys troops over the river this afternoon or to-mor- row morning, and will carry out your instructions as far as practicable. The following came through Colonel Davies, Second New York Cav- alry, last night: I have to report return of two scouts, Harris Light Cavalry, from Leesburg, early this morning. There are 300 sick there; no others. The last brigade left on Friday for Winchester; it was 2,500 strong. Another brigade left the day before for Harpers Ferry. As far as they could learn, there is no enemy between Harpers Ferry and Leesburg. The force at Wincliester is reported large, and General Johnston, who came from Gordonsville, is said to be in command there. Many of the sick said they hoped to be captured, to be paroled. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, September 15, 18622.1O p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN: The General-in-Chief directs that General Stoneman proceed without delay to the Upper Potomac, with six of his regiments of his own divis- ion, to take command, also, of the two regiments and battery now there. He is to guard the crossings from Great Falls to Point of Rocks, hav- ing his main force at some central position, such as Poolesville, to be selected b?him. General McClellan telegraphs that the affair yester- day at base of South Mountain was a complete success at all points. The enemy are in full retreat. All the troops, new and old, he says, be- haved splendidly. General Reno was killed. Please acknowledge. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-dc-Camp, and Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Wa8hington, September 15, 18622.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTzELMAN, Arlington: The commanding general learns that you have ordered Briggs bri- gade, of Casey~s command, to remain under General Whipples orders. General Briggs has never, so far as is known at these headquarters, been relieved from duty under General Casey, who is nnder orders to concentrate his command on the other side. Please report the circum- stances and the object of your order to General Whipple. By command of Major-General Banks: RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-dc-Camp, and Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 18622.30 p. m. Major-General IIEINTZELMAN, Commanding South of Potomac: GENERAL: Dispatches from General McClellan represent the enemy in full retreat before him in the direction of Shepherdstown. He ad Page 300 300 OPERATIONS IN N. VA, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. vises the movement of all troops that can be spared to the south side of the river, which will be done. It is possible that our forces may be called np~n to joiu the pursuit of the enemy, and I would suggest that you put your command, as fhr as possible, in condition to march to the front. There should be no delay in providing transportation, rations, & c. N. P. BANKS, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES SOUTH OF THE POTOMAC, Captain IRWIN, Sertember 15, 1862. Assistant Adjutant-General: I would prefer giving General Stoneman his division. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 18623.50 p. in. Maj. Gen. S. P. HELNTZELMAN, Arlington: Your telegrams of 1.30, 2.30, and another, hour not given, were all re- ceive(l at 3.40. General Stoneman should take two days rations in haversacks, and three, if possible, in wagons. His whole division can- not be spare(l from the other si(le. Let him take the largest and best brigade. His command up the river, though highly important at this moment, is but temporary. The exigency cannot extend beyond a few days. By command of Major-General Banks: Gaptain, Aide.de-Carnp, and Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 18629.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEJNTZELMAN, Arlington: The commanding general approves your suggestion to send a division to occupy Fairfax Court-House and Fairfax Station with a snfficient force of effective cavalry to push reconnaissances well beyond. Sore. backed and broken-down horses should be left to rest for the present. Measures will be taken to have the railway put in repair immediately. The lines of defenses should be left perfect. Please report what division and what cavalry goes, and at what hour they will march. General Banks thinks it best for General Stoneman to carry out his original in- structions, and go up on this side of the river, but will give him discre. tionary orders in regard to crossing. Please direct General Stoneinan, if he has not gone, to report in person at these headquarters to-morrow morning to receive his orders. Please acknowledge. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-dc-Camp, and Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Ge Page 301 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 301 HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES SOUTH OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 186210.30 p. m. Captain IRWIN, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington: I have sent a Strong force of cavalry, with artillery, toward Leesburg, and from there across to the Bull iRun Mountain. Mv intention was to advance General Stonemans division to Fairfax Court-House, and one of General Sigels divisions toward Leesburg. Now I am at a loss to find troops. I cannot take General Grover, as it will entirely uncover our left flank; besides, his pickets extend some 8 miles, and it will take too long to relieve them. Sending these troops across the Potomac, and a division to Fairfax Court-Honse, will necessarily break the line of defense; but, as the latter would be directly in front of the position they now occupy, this would be no disadvantage. General Sigels troops are all toward the right. I do not see how I can advance a division without more troops from the other side. . ~ HEINTZELMAN, S. Major-General. [P. S.]General Stonemans troops will come at daylight to-morrow. He will report in person in the morning. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 186211.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: Pending a reply from the general, to whom I send your telegram, re- ceived 11.15, please inform me whether it would not, in your opinion, be satisfactory to send one of Sigels divisions forward, as you propose, and supply its place in the line by a brigade of four new regiments from Casey, having somewhat more than the same numerical strength. The whole of Caseys command, twelve regiments, is to concentrate on the Virginia side to-morrow. Please answer immediately. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Gamp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 15, 186211.50 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: General Banks decides to send Stonemans command up the river on this side, as heretofore ordered, but to defer the advance toward Fair- fax until more complete arrangements can be made. The surrender ~at Harpers Ferry may change affairs on both sides. In the mean time put all your troops in condition to advance at short notice, when ordered. By command: RICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gem. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 242. f Washington, September 15, 1862. * * * * * * * III. Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, 15. 5. Volunteers, inspector of artillery Page 302 302 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CH~. XXXL his assistant and staff, are assigned to duty in the city of Washington, D. 0., to date from 1st instant. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General ilalleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, No. 3. September 15, 1862. 1. The military governor of Alexandria will immediately organize a camp of convalescents, stragglers, and recruits, under the following regulations: II. All officers absent from their regiments without a proper pass, approved by their division commander,will, if their regiments are sta- tioned in or near Washington, be ordered to join them, in arrest, and the fact will be duly reported to division commanders by the provost- marshal. (See Paragraph III, of General Orders, No.2, from these head- quarters.) Ill. Every officer absent from his regiment without a proper pass, and whose regiment is not near Washington, will be ordered by the officers of the provost guard to report in person to the provost-marshal, who will direct him, in writing, either to proceed to join his regiment within twenty-four hours, or within the same period to proceed to Alex- andria, and report to the military governor of that place for duty at the convalescent camp. Such an order is sufficient authority to pass the guards at the bridge or ferry to Alexandria. IV. All enlisted men arrested for being absent without a proper pass will, if their regiments are near Washington, be proceeded with as di- rected by General Orders, No. 2, from these headquarters. If their regiments are not near Washington, they will be sent, in squads, once each day, under guard, to the military governor of Alexandria, who will place them in the convalescent camp. V. The military governor of Alexandria will enforce the same regu lations so far as regards that city. VI. The military governor of the District of COlumbia will cause daily lists of the officers so ordered to report to be furnished to the military governor of Alexandria. The military governor of Alexandria will cause a complete register to be kept of all officers ordered to report at, and a separate register of all enlisted men sent to, the convalescent camp, and will communicate daily to the military governor of the District of Columbia the names of all officers who should have reported to him within the past twenty-four hours but who have failed so to report, and he will transmit weekly to each division commander a transcript of the register for the past week, so far as relates to his division. VII. All recruits arriving for regiments which are not near W~shing- ton will be sent to the convalescent camp. VILL As far as practicable, the convalescents, stragglers, and recruits will be organized in squads, according to divisions or corps, each squad in charge of an officer from the division or corps. A competent officer should be assigned to the command of the camp. IX. Shelter will be provided for the officers and men, and rations for the men. X. All enlisted men received at the convalescent camp who are with- out haversacks, canteens, and blankets will be supplied with them, an Page 303 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tJNION. 303 such men as are fit for active service will be armed before joining their regiments. XI. A consolidated morning report of the convalescent camp, stated, as far as practicable, by divisions, will be made to these headquarters on the 10th, 20th, and last days of the month. XII. Orders will be given from these headquarters, from time to time, as opportunity offers, for forwarding the officers and men to their regi- ments. By command of Major-General Banks: RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 15, 1862. Co1~nIANrnNG OFFICER, Greencastle, Pa.: Do everything in your power to assist General McClellan by harass- ing the rear of Longstreet. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 15, 1862. COMMANDING OFFICER, Gettysburg, Pa.: You will move your forces to the assistance of General McClellan in the direction of Hagerstown and Williamsport, and seek to harass the enemy by attacking his flank and rear, capturing stragglers, and de- stroying his trains. You will report to any ranking officer you meet. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. FREDERICK, MD., September 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALL~CK, General-in- Chief: SIR: Last night General Brooks took position in Burkittsville Gap [Cramptons Pass], and drove the rebels from their guns. Generals Franklin, Smith, and Brooks pushed forward this morning for Harpers Ferry. From 6 oclock up till 9.30 this morning heavy firing towar(l Harpers Ferry. The rebels are falling back to the river. W. J. GAINES. POINT OF IROCKS, MD., September 15, 1862. Hon. F M. STANTON or Colonel STAGER: A young man, a straggler from the Eighth Yirginia Regiment, left Maryland Heights at 9 oclock this morning. He states Maryland Heights were occupied by Jones brigade Saturday evening. Ilarpers Ferry was surrendered to Jackson at 9 oclock this morning. The force at Harpers Ferry, nuder Jackson, was 30,000. Lee was at Hagerstowii. Hill commanded in front of McClellan yesterday. Hill was to be re-en- forced this morning by Longstreet. Hill fell back last night, leaving a brigade and six pieces on the mountain. On being attacked, the brigad Page 304 304 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL fell back, losing their guns. He heard General Wright read note that Harpers Ferry was surrendered to Jackson. We have arrested and hold this man prisoner. His name is Samuel W. Sullivan. CONWAY and HALL, Operators. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 15, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore: GENERAL: Your letter of the 13th has been laid before the Secretary of War, and I am instructed to say, in reply, that the President has not been induced by Jacobins or any others to remove you from the com- mand. On the contrary, he wishes you to pursue a conciliatory course toward the civil authorities of that State, and to ftirnIsh the Governor with one of the Maryland regiments to enforce the draft, if he makes the requisition. It is of the very greatest importance that the civil and military authorities in Baltimore act together with cordiality. The Gov- ernment, therefore, expects that the military commander will do his ut- most to prevent any misunderstanding between them. Provost-Marshal MePhail was appointed by the War Department, and, of course, you will not be held responsible for arrests made by him. Where, however, all are laboring for the same great end, a mere difference of judgment on matters of arrests shonid not prevent a cordial co-operation. Per- haps, on consultation with the Governor, he may deem it best, under existing circumstances, not to withdraw any forces from the defense of Baltimore and the railroads. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK General-in-/Jhief. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Fort illonroe, Va., September 15, 1862. Naj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: GENERAL: Before I left Baltimore I designed to represent to the Gov- ernment the importance of making Fort Federal Hill a permanent forti- fication, but was prevented by my sudden departure. There is now an admirable earthwork there, and all that is necessary is to surround it with brick walls, and construct casemates within. I do not think an essential alteration of the plan necessary. The ground would probably cost, on appraisement, $100,000; the work, $250,000, which, in view of the important object to be secured, is a very moderate expenditure. The considerations by which this measure is supported are as fol- lows: 1st. The geographical position of Baltimore renders it indispensable that it should be under the control of the Government military force, in order to insure the quietude and safety of the capital. The direct con- nection of the two cities, and the preponderance of Baltimore in popu- lation, require that the latter should not be left to the dangers arising from popular or political excitement. 2d. There is no city in the Union in which domestic disturbances have been more frequent or carried to more fatal extremes from 1812 to the present day. Although the great body of the people are eminently dis- tinguished for their moral Virtues, Baltimore has always contained Page 305 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 305 mass of inflammable material which ignites on the slightest provoca- tion. A city so prone to burst into flame, and thus become dangerous to its neighbors, should be controlled by the strong arm of the Govern- ment whenever these paroxysms of excitement occur. 3d. Fort Federal Hill completely commands the city, and is capable, from its proximity to the principal business quarters, of assailing any one without injury to the others. The hill seems to have been placed there by nature as a site for a permanent citadel, and I beg to suggest whether a neglect to appropriate it to its obvious design would not be an unpardonable dereliction of duty. As I was more than ten months in command at Baltimore, and as Fort Federal Hill and Fort Marshall were undertaken and completed on my recommendations and under my supervision, I trust I shall be excllse(l for these suggestions. General Cullum went over the ground with me before the plan of defense, of which the two forts referred to were the principal parts, was formally adopted, and is familiar with the whole subject. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., September 15, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The following just received from Greencastle, dated 9 a. in., Septem- ber 15: United States cavalry, from Harpers Ferry, has arrived at Greencastle, under coni- mand of Colonel Davis, Eighth New York. It consists of Twelfth Illinois, under Colonel Voss; Eighth New York, Colonel Davis, and two companies each of Rhode Island and Maryland cavalry. The force is 1,300 strong. They left Harpers Ferry at 9 oclock last evening, and cut their way through. One mile out from Willianisport they captured Longstreets ordnance train, comprising 40 wagons; also brought in 40 prisoners. Fighting has been going on for two days at Harpers Ferry. The enemy occupy Maryland and Loudoun Heights, and were planting their cannon in front of Bohivar Heights all day yesterday. Colonel Davis says he thinks Colonel Miles will surrender this morning. Colonel Miles desires his condition made known to the War Department. A. G. (JURTIK, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 15, 1862. Hon. E. N. STANTON: Reports this morning from battle of yesterday in Middletown Valley are not favorable. No decisive result, but McClellans forces said to have been driven back 2 miles. Longstreets corps left ilagerstown at 2 p. m. to re-enforce rebel column for battle of to-day. Our army needs all the aid possible in that quarter. A. G. CURTIX. [BOONSBOROUGH], September 15, 18628 a. m. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTrN, Harrisburg: I have the pleasure of announcing to you that we gained a complete victory over the enemy yesterday afteruoon, aiA b~ve now entire poe- 20 B I~YOL XI~ FT I Page 306 306 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL session of the South Mountain range. I congratulate you on the gal- lant behavior of the Pennsylvania Reserves, who, as well as all the trool)s, both old and new, acted with the greatest steadiness and gal- lantry. The army is moving in pursuit of the enemy. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. P. S., 8.30 A. i~r.J have just learned that the enemy are making for Shepherdstown in a perfect panic. Please have any damage done to the Hagerstown [road] repaired at once, as I shall want to use it for my supplies. HARRISBURG, PA., September 15, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Headquarters near Bolivar: Your glorious message just received. Look out for Jacksons column from Harpers Ferry, where it has been fighting Miles for two days; also for Longstreets column, which moved from Boonsborough last night to re-enforce Lee. It is thought that both will combine with Lee to give you another heavy battle. General Reynolds has goiie to Chain- bersburg, and will have the 10,000 militia there to-night; also 2,000 good cavah~y. Part of them are from Harpers Ferry, under Colonel Davis. They cut their way through last night, and report that Colonel Miles would be obliged to surrender this morning, unless Jackson leaves to re enforce Lee as against your army. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, September 15, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Railroad to Hagerstown is all in order, and telegraph line working there. Town was taken possession of by our forces at 4 p. in. to-day. A. G. CURTlY, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief, U. S. Army: In addition to the cavalry at Greencastle, there are two regiments of cavalry, with two pieces of artillery, at Gettysburg, Pa., under com- mand of Colonel MeReynolds, of New York cavalry. Cannot they be used to harass the enemy on the flank or in the rear by crossing over to Greencastle or Hagerstown ~l You can reach them by telegraph from Washington. - A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. WHEELING, VA., September 15, 18627.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Colonel Lightburu has fallen back to the Ohio River, at Ravenswood, with small loss. With the aid of Governor Tod, we can re-enforce Light Page 307 CHAP. XXXI.] 307 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. burn with 9,000 troops, new levies. I want Colonel Crook, or some ex- perienced officer, to assist in command, and we can drive the whole rebel force out of Kanawha Valley; but I must have 1,900 guns. F. II. PEIRPOINT. Governor. WHEELING, VA., September 15, 186210 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: If General Hartsuff is well, send him to Gallipolis. The rebels are moving slowly down the Kanawlia, and our forces are concentrating at Gallipolis. llartsuff is well acquainted with that country. F. H. PEIRPOINT, Governor. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, September 16, 1862. Major-General HALLECK General-in-Chief: GENERAL: I beg to direct your attention to the immediate necessity of a military force to protect the powder mills of Messrs. Du Pont, on the Brandywine. You are aware that a large portion of the .Governuient ammunition is made there, the works being the largest in the world. I have been informed that in the last war with Great Britaiu a guard of 4,000 men was kept there. It seems to me that at least an equal force is now necessary. Yours, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 16, 1862. Brigadier-General REYNOLDS, Harrisburg, Pa.: In view of the possibility of a sudden raid or a disguised body of rebels being made or sent to destroy the powder mills near Wilming- ton, Del., the Secretary of War suggests that a guard of Pennsylvania militia be sent temporarily to guard these mills. They can v,ery sool be replaced by volunteers. At present every available man must be sent to General McClellan. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Bivouac near Sharpsburg, Mid., September 16, 18627 a. m. (Received 12 in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The enemy yesterday held a position just in front of Sharpsburg. When our troops arrived in sufficient force it was too late in the day to attack. This morning a heavy fog has thus far prevented us doing more than to ascertain that some of the enemy are still there. Do iot know in what force. Will attack as soon as situation of enemy is developed. I learn Miles surrendered 8 a. m. yesterday unconditionally. I fear hi Page 308 308 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXL resistance was not as stubborn as it might have been. Had he held the Maryland Heights he would inevitably have been saved. The time lost on account of the fog is being occupied in getting up supplies, for the waimt of which many of our men are suffering. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. 0 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 16, 1S6~. Major-Geucral BURNSIDE, Commanding Ninth Corps, & c.: GENERAL: The general commanding has learned that, although your corps was ordered to be in a designated position at 12 m. to-day, at or near sunset only one division and four batteries had reached the ground intended for your troops. The general has also been advised that there was a delay of some four hours in the movement of your command yesterday. I am in- structed to call upon you for explanations of these failures on your part to comply with the orders given you, and to add, in view of the impor- tant military operations now at hand, the commanding general cannot lightly regaj~d such marked departure from the tenor of his instrnctions. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Lieutenant-Colonel, Aide-de-Camip, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. ADVANCE, THREE QUARTERS OF A MILE TOWARD SHARPSBURG FROM BOoNSEOROuGH, [September 16 [?], 1862]1i a. m. Captain DUANE or General MARCY, Chief of Staff: People of the country report the enemy in position just beyond Cen. treville [Keedysville], on a high ridge, above a small stream, where the valley is clear of wood. For a mile or two in advance of here the road is wooded on the right of the road and clear on the left, as they report. Pleasonton, with Tidhalls battery, followed Fitzhugh Lee toward Ha. gerstown, and General Richardson, without cavalry, in advance, moves about 2 miles, or 1~, an hour. A man in Boonsborough said he counted their guns, and there were fifty; also there was a large baggage train. C. B. COMSTOCK, Lieutenant, Engineers. P. S.If you will send me two or three orderlies, I will report every hour. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.s OFFICE, No. 244. ~ Washington, September 16, 1862. * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. W. F. Barry, in addition to his other duties, will report to Major-General Banks, as chief of artillery of the defenses of Wash- ington. By command of Major-General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 309 CnAi-. ~ZXXI.] c~O1~kESPONDENCt, I~Ttx tINION. B09 WASHINGTON, September 16, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: In addition to the two new regiments and one battery sent up the river a day or two ago, I, this morning, dispatched to the same point, by direction of the General-in-Chief, Birneys brigade, of Stonemans division, making in all about 4,000 infantry, with six guns and a squad- ron of cavalry; the whole under the command of General Stoneman. His orders are to guard the crossings from the Point of Rocks to Great Falls, and to be prepared to cross when required to co-operate in a movement on the other side. The cavalry, which has been pushed up toward Leesburg, is to communicate with him General Stoneman ex- pected to reach Poolesville to-night. I had intended to push a division out to Fairfax Court-House and Fairfax Station this morning, but find- ing that this movement, connected with the movements up the river on this side, directed by the General-in-Chief, would break the lines of defense, and considering that the surrender which we feared had taken place at Harpers Ferry might change the complexion of affairs on both sides, I thought it better to defer any advance of our lines from here until the arrangement should be more complete, and until we might be fully informed of the situation. In this view General Ilalleck concurred. All the troops on the other side, except the garrisons, are ordered to be ready at a moments notice. Caseys provisional brigades, consisting of eight new regiments and two batteries, were concentrated beyond Fort Albany this morning. The dispatches received from you yester- day gave great satisfaction to the President and the Department. I shall be glad to know your views in regard to the movement suggested above. N. P. BANKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Washington, September 10, 186211.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. J. P. SLOUGH, Alexandria: General Banks directs that you take immediate measnres to correct the evil represented in the following communication from the General- in-Chief: Several times the commissary store-room at Alexandria has been taken possession of by stragglers. General Slough was directed to detail a company for its protection. It appears I have been relieved, and the stragglers have again assumed control. The General-in-Chief desires the evil remedied. Please acknowledge. RICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 10, 18024 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: Caseys troops, being on the other side of the river, are certainly under your orders, but it was directed that the organization of General Casey~s command should not be disturbed, as would be done by the assignment of one of its brigades to another division. The exigency of the occasio Page 310 MO o~IA~ATIONs IN N. VA., XV. VA., Mt~., AND PA. tCILkP. ~XXL must, of course, control the disposition of your troops, but, ordinarily, organization should be maintained. It was presumed that there was some misapprehension about Briggs brigade, and previous dispatch* was simply designed to elicit explanation. By command of Major-General Banks: IIICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de- Camp, and Act.q. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON. September 16, 18629 p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The order to have your whole command in readiness to move was not intended to embrace the garrisons of the works. The commanding general consi(lers their presence in the works more important than any service their numbers would enable theni to render hastily concentrated and thrown into the field. By command of Major-General Banks: RICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. WASHINGTON, D. (IX, September 16, 1862noon. Governor CURTIN, Harrisburg: What do you hear from General McClellans army ~? We have noth. ing from him to-day. A. LINCOLN. HARRISBURG, PA., September 16, 1862. (Received 1.30 p. in.) His Excellency the PRESIDENT: We have no definite news. Our telegraph operator at Hagerstown reports that a battle is progressing near the Potomac, between Sharps- burg and Williamsport. What success did McClellan meet with yester- day? We have not heard, and should know, in order to use our forces that are now being pushed into Maryland. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. WASHINGTON, ID. C., September 16, 1862-.~-2.35 p. m. Governor CURTIN: Since telegraphing yon, dispatch came from General McClellan, dated 7 oclock this morning. Nothing of importance happened with him yes. terday. This morning he was up with the enemy at Sharpsburg, and was waiting for heavy fog to rise. A. LINCOLN. * See Banks to Heintzelman, September 15, 2.15 p. in., p. 299 Page 311 CHAP. XX~I.l CORllESPONDtNCI~, ETC.tYNION. 311 HARRISBURG, PA., September 16, 18625.30 p. m. President LINCOLN: The following just received from Hagerstown: Jackson has recrosscd the Potomac, and General McClellan has engaged him with a large force a few miles this side of Sharpsbnrg, 10 miles from here. The whole rebel army in Maryland will probably be annihilated or captured to-night. McClellan is on the battle-field. A. G-. CURTIK, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., September 16, 186211 p. m. The PRESIDENT: Captain Palmer telegraphs me from ilagerstown as follows: I rode to General McClellans headquarters at Keedysville at 12 oclock last night, and have just returned, leaving there at noon. The general believes that Harpers Ferry surrendered yesterday morning, and that Jackson re-enforced Lee at Sharps- burg last night. The enemy have a strong position on the west bank of the Antietam Creek, opposite Sharpsburg. McClellans army lies on east bank, within shooting (listance, but nuder excellent cover. The battle will begin this afternoon. Hooker was moving to open the ball at about noon. Rebels appear encouraged at arrival of their re-enforcements. General McClellan at first thought he would send a large force of Pleasontons cavalry, with artillery, to this pointwhich is Jones Cross- Roads, on Sharpsburg pikebut finally concluded not to send them so far off; but he ordered down the Harpers Ferry cavaky, 1,300 in number, to support my 300, and desires all the force that can be sent from Cumberland Valley to come here immedi- ately. Please push this matter. We have no infantry or artillery sufficiently well organized to march into Maryland to support McClellan, but a force of ten or fifteen good regiments, with some artillery, thrown on the flank and rear of the enemy by to-morrow night might be of immense service. If General Wool can forward that number from Baltimore to-night and to.morrow morning, they can be put in position by General Reynolds to-morrow night. We are busy organizing our militia at Chambersbnrg, and in a few days will have a respectable reserve for checking invasions. What can be done? Please advise. A. G. CUIRTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. FREDERICK, Mn., September 16, 1862. Colonel STAGER: Jackson in person was in command at Harpers Ferry. General A. P. Hill remained to conclude terms of surrender. Jackson left there in the morning, going np the valley. Troops were crossing the Potomac all last night, and going toward Winchester without stopping. Sup- posed that about 40,000 of all arms crossed during the night. Passed their pickets at Knoxville. LOUNSBERRY, Operator. WASHINGTON, ID. C., September 16, 1862. Governor PEIRPOINT, Wheeling, Va.: General Crook and General llartsnff are both fighting in the field at the present time, and cannot now be reached. Can you name some other general for the Kanawha. who is familiar with the country? H. W. HALL h~CK, General-in- Chief Page 312 312 OPnRA~VION~ IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rCHAI-. XXXI. WHEELING, VA., iSepternber 16, 1862. General HALLECK: General Crawford has knowledge of Kanawlia Valley. Dont know what experience in fighting. I want a man furnished, and will leave it to yonr selection, but ask that he be sent immediately. F. H. PEIRPOJINT, Governor. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 17, 18621.20 p. m. (Received 5 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. IJALLECK, General-in- Chief: Please take military possession of the Chambersburg and ilagerstown Railroad, that our ammunition and supplies may be hurried up without delay. We are in the midst of the most terrible battle of the warper- haps of history. Thus far it looks well, but I have great odds against me. Hurry up all the troops possible. Our loss has been terrific, but we have gained much ground. 1 have thrown the mass of the army on the left flank. Buruside is now attacking the right, and I hold my small reserve, consisting of Porters (Fifth) corps, ready to attack the center as soon as the flank movements are developed. I hope that God will give ns a glorious victory. GEO. B. McCLELLAN Major-General, Commazding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. 8TH ARMY CORPS, MIDDLE DEPT., No. 97. Baltimore, Md., September 17, 1862. * * * * * * * IX. Brig. Gen. John R. Kenly, U. S. Volunteers, will, without un- necessary delay, march to ilagerstown, Md., with the whole available force of his brigade, taking with him a full supply of ammunition and provisions for ten days. Col. James Edger, aide-de-camp and quartermaster, U. S. Army, will furnish the necessary transportation, upon being notified by Brigadier- General Kenly what will be required. Upon arriving at ilagerstown, Brigadier-General Kenly will report to Major-General McClellan for orders. By command of Major-General Wool: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant.General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Yta Illiagerstown, Md., September 17, 1862. (Received 10 p. in.) Brigadier.General RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: If you can possibly do it, force some 20-pounder 1arrott ammuni- tion through to-night, via Hagerstown and Chambersburg, to us, near Sharpsburg, Md. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major. General, Commanding Page 313 OIIAP. ~XIi COIII~ESI5ONDENCE, ]3~TC.UNION. ~3 I ~3 HAGERSTOWN, MD., September 17, 18629.30 p. m. (Received 10 p. in.) Brigadier-General RIPLEY: General McClellan desires that duplicate ammunition be sent, one part to Hagerstown and the other to Frederick20-pounder Parrott, 10-pounder Parrott, 12-pounder Napoleon, 12-pounder and 32-pounder howitzer ammunition, and small-arm ammunition, except .54, .58, .69, and .57; Sharps ammunition and pistol ammunition. N. B. SWEJTZER, Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-de-Camp. WAiL DEPARTIVIENT, Washington City, D. C., September 17, 1862. General MCCLELLAN, Near Hagerstown, Md.: Telegram received. A special train will soon leave with the 20-pounder ammunition asked for. It will go in charge of an ordnance officer and will be in Hagerstown to-morrow morning. Other ammunition will fol- low to Frederick and Hagerstown as soon as possible. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General, Chief of Ordnance. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 17, 1862. JOHN XV. GARRETT, Esq., President, & c., Baltimore: We are making up a train, to consist of a locomotive and one baggage car loaded with ammunition, which General McClellan wants in the morning at Ilagerstown, if possible. This train must have the right of way oiLthe entire route, and must be run as fast as any express pas- senger train could be run. It will be ready to start in two or three hours from this time. Can you make the necessary arrangements to push it through, via Harrisburg? P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 17, 1862. Hon. P. II. WATSON: We make arrangements to forward the number of cars stated, without delay. Will send through Northern Central road, and we at once advise that company to make all necessary preparations to transport to Hagerstown as speedily as possible. J. W. GARRETT, President, WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 17, 186212 p. in. To the officers, or any of them, of the Northern Central Railroad, Penns~l- vania Central Railroad, and Cun,berland Valley Railroad, at Harris- burg, Pa.: An ammunition train will leave here about 1 oclock a. m. for Hagers- town, via Harrisburg, to be run through at the fastest possible speed Page 314 314 0PEtlATIO~S IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., A~D PA. C~IAi~. ~XXL so as to reach its destination to-morrow morning early, it must have the right of way throughout, as General McClellan needs the ammuni- tion, to be used in the battle to be fought to-morrow. It is expected that you will use every possible effort to expedite the passage of this train. By order of the President of the United States: EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. 0., September 17, 186212 p. m. Hon. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Harrisburg, Pa.: I have telegraphed to the officers of the Northern Central and of the Cumberland~ Valley Railroads to expedite a train loaded with ammuni- tion, of which General McClellan is in great need, and for which he tele- graphed since 10 oclock p. ni. We start the traIn in about an hour. If we could bave the assurance that you would attend l)ersollally to securing the right of way for the traiti and otherwise expediting its passage, we should have strong hope that it would reach its destination early in the morningin time for the ammunition to be used in the expected battle of to-morrow. At all events, we should know that noth- ing would be left undone within the limits ot possibilities to get this ammunition to General McClellan in season. P. II. WATSON. HEADQUARTERS, September 17, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAxIS, Assistant Adjutant- General: GENERAL: lour dispatch of yesterday this moment received. Gen- eral Bnrnside (lirects me to say that immediately upon the receipt of the order of the general commanding, which was after 12 oclock, he ordered his corps to be in readiness to march, and instead of having Captain Duane post the division in (letail, and at the suggestion of Cap- tain Duane, he sent three aides to ascertain the l)osition of each of the three divisions, that they might I)05t them. These aides returned shortly before 3 oclock, and they immediately proceeded to l)ost the three columns. The general then went on an eminemmee above these positions to get a good view of them, and whilst there, during the progress of the movement of his corps, an aide from General McClellan came to him and said that General McClellan was not sure that the proier position had been indicated, aimd advisimig him not to hasten the mnovement until the aide had communicated with the general comumanding. TIe (General Buruside) at oimce went to General McClellans headquarters to inforni him that he had seen large bodies of the enemy moving off to the right. Not finding the general comumandiug, General Burmiside returned to his comnmalL(l and the movement was resumed and continued as rapidly as possible. General Burnside directs me to say that he is sorry to have re- ceived so severe a rebuke from the general commanding, and particu- larly sorry that the general commanding feels that his instructions have not been obeyed; but nothing can occur to prevent the general from con tinning his hearty co-operation to the best of his ability in axiy move- nient the general comumanding may (lirect. I have time honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 315 CHAP. XXXII COR~E~PONDEN~J1, I~tt~ .tJNIQN. 315 [SEPTEMBER 17, 1862.] GeneUll PORTER: Our batteries on the left have been firing with heavy guns on the enemys left wing, which has lately advanced some. Our light batteries on the left are covering our column, which is crossing the stone bridge. We are advancing the Ninth Corps on Sharpsburg. Captain Benjamin is firing, by order of General Buruside, and has silenced a battery of the enemy. J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Ninth Corps. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, & ptember 17, 18621.25 p. m. Brigadier-General MEADE: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that ~ou temporarily assume command of Hookers corps, and nse every effort in your power to reorganize it and make it serviceable. It is absolutely necessary that the right should be held, and the troops must be got together and into 1)OsitiOu for that purpose as rapidly as possible. Yonrs very respectfully, A. V. COLBURN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 17, 18623.10 [p. in.]. General MEADE: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you at once take command of the army corps which was under the command of General Hooker this morning. This order is given without regard to rank, and all officers of the corps will obey your orders. The commanding general also directs me to say that you will be held responsible for this com- mand as herein assigned to you. Very respectfully, H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS SYKES DIvIsION, September 17, 18627 a. in. General PORTER: GENERAL: My skirmishers are across the bridgethree companies. They have had some firing this morning. The enemys guns are where they were yesterday, and are firing at the hill where Benjamins guns were yesterday. A large force of infantry (enemys) are to the left of Sharpsburg, np the valley, awaiting evidently the approach of our attack from that direction. They have set fire to firm houses, & c. Very respectfully, GEO. SYKES, Brigadier- General Page 316 1 ~ oP~AtioN~ IN N. VA,, W. VA., MD., A NI) PA. ~CIIAP. ~ SEPTEMBER 17, 18625 p. m. General SYKES: Burnside is driving the enemy. Please send word to the command you seut to Pleasonton, to support his batteries, and let him drive them. F. J. PORTER, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. . In the Field, September 17, 1862. Brig. Gen. W. S. Hancock is assigned to the command of the division lately commanded by Major-General Richardson. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 17, 186211 a. in. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The commanding general directs that you push a cavalry force beyond Fairfax Court-House, toward Bull Run, and to that stream, if practi- cable, to cover the reconnaissance on the railway which General Haupt has been ordered to make. Please give General Haupt 100 good men for the purpose. Acknowledge. RJCHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Gamp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. ARLINGTON, VA., 86211.40 a. m. Captain IRwIN, September 17 1 Assistant Adjutant- General: Your telegram received. Where will the 100 men find General Haupt, to report to him ~ A scout from Centreville reports that the enemy has a regiment of cavalry, a regiment of infantry, and a battery of artillery encamped to the right of the town. CHAUNCEY MCKEEVER, Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA DEPOT, VA., September 17, 1862. Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKS: I have just returned from a reconnaissance to Bull Run. There was but one break in the track, which we repaired and passed on. The bridge over Bull Run can be made passable for trains in one hour. I saw nothing of the cavalry. H. HAUPT Page 317 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, THIRD CORPS, Seminary, September 17, 1862. Lieutenant-Colonel MCKEEYER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Headquarters Defenses, & c.: SIR: I have the honor to report the return of the party sent with flag of truce to recover the bodies of officers killed at Bristoe Station and Bull Run. The last party proceeded, without molestation or meeting with any of the Confederate forces, to the Bull Run battle-field, and succeeded in obtaining the bodies, or most of them. As they were about to return, a company of the Sixth Virginia Cavalry came to them, and, without interrupting them, spoke of the impropriety of an armed force escorting the flag, and that they would not have permitted it. The company was permitted to return. The battle-field and vicinity had many stragglers upon it, and the dead of both sides were not buried. The stragglers, sick, wounded, were all going to Winchester, Va. The flag of truce to Bristoe Station met a party of Confederates on the railroad, 34 miles this side of the station, beyond Manassas Station. The cavalry was the Thirteenth Virginia. Maj. W. H. Stewart was in command at Bristoe Station, and said it would take some three days to communicate with their general, and declined to receive the flag or to permit the officer to approach nearer Bristoe Station. After the flag was dismissed, being detained three hours, the road from Bristoe Sta- tion to Fairfax was found picketed. Several spiked field pieces were seen this side of Bull Run, and matters very much in same state as after the battle. The force at Bristoe Station is thought to be small, per- haps a squadron of cavalry. The main line of pickets seem to be from Warrenton, through White Plains, to Lees burg, and the l)arties near Centreville and Fairfax Court- House were scouting parties. I have received information of a rebel recruiting or cavalry guerrilla company between Fairfax and Centreville, and have ordered the cavalrys reconnaissance to capture the recruits and officer. I think that valuable information will be obtained by this party, and would suggest the propriety of surprising the party at Bristoe Station by a raid of the cavalry sent out. I could order them to do so by an orderly. I am, sir, your obedient servant, D. B. BIRNEY, Brigadier-General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES SOUTH OF THE POTO1~IAC, Arlington, September 18, 1862. Respectfully forwarded [to General Banks]. Since I received the above I received your telegram of 10.10 a. m. I do not think that anything can be done by a flag of truce, as the enemy will not receive it. The only way to accomplish the object will be to occupy Fairfax Court.House in force and push forward a strong armed party. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Major- General, Gommanding Page 318 318 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. SEMINARY, September 17, 1862. Captain IRWIN, Aide-de Gamp: Scouts just in report no signs of enemys pickets at Fairfax or Cen- treville; that they have their line from Warrenton, through White Plains, to Leesburg, and all their sick are going toward Winchester, which seems to be the rendezvous. The flag of truce met a scouting party on Bull Run battle-field. There is also a small force beyond Manas- sas Gap and near Bristoe Station; but all their forces on this flank seem to be moving toward Winchester and Leesburg. B. B. BIRNEY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. (Copy to Secretary of War and General McClellan.) UPTONS HILL, VA., September 17, 18629.40 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel MOKEEVER, Chief of Staff, Arlington: I have a report from Lieutenant-Colonel Kilpatrick that 30,000 men left Winchester for Harpers Ferry yesterday noon. He does not send his source of information. He also gives his opinion that a portion is coming through Snickers Gap. This is not so, I think. Certainly not on their way to Harpers Ferry. He sends me a scout of the enemy, who left Shepherdstown yesterday morning, and a citizen. From them I learn that a column from direction of Leesbnrg, apparently, crossed the Shenandoah yesterday on their way to Harpers Ferry. It had thirty pieces of artillery and fifty wagons, and I think at least two bri- gades of infantry. Met no other force between Harpers Ferry and Leesburg. One of the men says he saw the enemys officers reconnoiter- ing for intrenchments between Boonsborough and Shepherdstown. The scout says their main body had fallen back to Sharpsburg. There is a small force watching Edwards Ferry. J. M. DAVIES, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. (Te]egraphed by Banks to McClellan, 12.20 p. in.) HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Uptons Hill, September 17, 1862. Lieutenant-Colonel MCKEEVER, Chief of Staff, Army of Virginia: I send, under guard, two men, captured last evening at Dranesville by Lieutenant-Colonel Kilpatrick. One is a rebel scout, though not, I understand, a soldier. He is not communicative. The other will tell his own story to the effect that he had thought of joining the Virginia cavalry in Maryland; went over the river with them, and left at Shep- herdstown. He will tell all he knows, and I got most of the informa- tion I telegraphed from him. I send a copy of Lieutenant-Colonel Kil- patricks report. He evidently mistakes the column from Leesbnrg for another one from Winchester. The road from Winchester to Harper Page 319 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 319 Ferry does not lead near to the Shenandoah except at its mouth, at Harpers Ferry. According to the secession story, there were 14,000 men at Harpers Ferry when it surrendered. Yours, respectfully, ~. M. DAVIES, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. (Inclosure.] DRANESYILLE, September 16, 186210 p. m. COLONEL: I send you a rebel scout or spy, who has just come from the fight at B oonsborough; crossed the river 2 miles above Harpers Ferry. Colonel Miles has surrendered, after so me fighting. He may not have done so, but I am about certain this scout was at the fight on Sun- day. Is impudent as the devil, and knows everything; was taken by my pickets. Nine regiments of infantry, thirty pieces of artillery, and some cavalry l)assed the Shenandoah, on the Leesburg pike, to Harpers Ferry; were then going to Harpers Ferry; they came from Winchester. Small guards of rebels at Edwards and Conrads Ferries. I shall not go far to the left of Leesburg, not for fear of troops, but there is a column going to Harpers Ferry, and I can observe them better on the pike leading to Leesburg. I think a column is coming through Snickers Gap, marching along this side the mountains; another on the other side. Over 30,000 men were at Winchester till noon yesterday. All are now marching to Harpers Ferry. I shall observe them. KILPATHICK. P. S.I also send you a man from Maryland, a good man, who came near being a rebel. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, September 17, 186211.40 a. m. Major-General WOOL: ~it is reported that a large nuniber of men, late of the garrison at Har. pers Ferry, are straggling in the vicinity of the Monocacy. The Secre. tary of War directs you to take steps immediately to have them col- lected; those not paroled organized and sent to their army corps; those paroled marched on foot to Annapolis. Send supplies to meet them. Acknowledge receipt of this. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 17, 1862. Major-General WooL, Baltimore, llIid.: Send to ilagerstown, to report to General McClellan, all the troops you can spare. Also, see that all ammunition and other supplies are forwarded as expeditiously as possible. If necessary, take military pos- session of the railroads for that purpose. fl~ W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 320 320 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXL BALTiMORE, MD., September 17, 18627.45 p. in. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I sent to the Patuxent and Laurel Bridge, on the Washington road, subject to the orders of General Banks, agreeably to your orders, two regiments two days since. I know of no others, unless you take them from the railroads. Had you not better call on Governor Curtin to for- ward some of the troops at Harrisburg? I have no troops to spare from the city. General Banks must furnish them with ammunition and other supplies. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HARRISBURG, PA., Hon. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, September 17, 18629 a. in. President of the United States: Heavy battle yesterday. No definite results. Our scouts report enemy pretty well surrounded, and nearly out of ammunition and pro- visions. Battle resumed this morning at 6 oclock. Heavy and con- tinuous cannonading reported from Hagerstown. A. G. CURTJN, - Governor of Pennsylvansa. HARRISBURG, PA., September 17, 18622 p. m. The PRESIDENT: Hagerstown reports as follows: General McClellan directed Captain Palmer to have bridges at Williamsport de- stroyed. Captain Russell, of First Maryland Cavalry, has just returned, after burn- ing bridge and aqueduct, and left immediately for the battle-field. A. G. OURTJN, Governor of Pennsylvania. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 17, 1862. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, llarrisburg, Pa.: Our advices from Frederick this morning are that most of the enemys forces have crossed to the Virginia side, and are in the Shenandoah Valley. All available troops were sent yesterday to the places indi- cated by General McClellan. Troops will be moved only as he indi- cates. Accounts received here are often very contradictory. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HARRISBURG, PA., September 17, 18625 p. in. Major-General HALLECK: Your message received. From my knowledge of matters I believe a column from Baltimore to Hagerstown would be of immense service Page 321 hAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 321 The railways here are perfectly and fully organized. They will do every- thing possible for the Government, to the exclusion of eveiything else, if needed. A. G. CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania. HARRISBURG, PA., & ~ptember 17, 1862. (Received 10 p. in.) General RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: Send immediately two millions more buck and ball, .69 caliber, and one million .58 caliber. They are needed, in addition to previous orders. Can you send us ten thousand stand muskets, with accouterments? A. G. CURTIN. IIEADQLTARTERS ARMY OF PENNSYLVANIA, Hagerstown, Aid., September 17, 1862noon. Muj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I am informed that your communication with General McClellan is in- terrupted. The latest reports from my vedettes describe the battle as very severe at 11 a. m. The enemys right rested on Sharpsburg l)lke, 2 miles this side of Sharpsburg. Our left was on the northeast side of Antietam Creek, near Porterstown. The enemy is reported to be re- treating toward Williamsport, at which point my vedettes report the bridge burned and aqueduct destroyed by us. The enemy may possibly endeavor to break through here, or may strike across to Dam No.4, if it is not held by us. None but very raw troops hereinfantry. Shall I telegraph direct again, or through General Reynolds? MORTON McMICHAEL, Jn., Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-de- Camp, Commanding. HAGERsTOwN, MD., September 17, 18625.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Heavy and continuous firing heard in direction of Williamsport since 4 oclock; now continues. About forty shots per minute are heard, ap- parently coming nearer. Scouts report that at 3.30 oclock the enemy were on the run toward the Williamsport road. I think enemy have made another stand, flanking toward Williamsport; the heavy cannon- ading would so indicate. MORTON McMICIIAEL, JR., Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-Camp. CAMDEN STATION, Baltimore, Md., September 17, 1862. (Received 5 p. in.) H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Major-General McClellan telegraphed to me his great anxiety for the early reconstruction of the Monocacy Bridge. Anticipating his wishes, 21 U UVOL xix, PT I Page 322 322 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. we rapidly gathered men arid material for the prosecution of the work. Our men have been much interfered with by the military in the vicinity, and their appeals to the officers in command there for proper protection at their work have been fruitless. Our engineer in charge of the work has just telegraphed me as follows: MONOCACY, Mn., September 17, 18623.25 p. m. I find it impossible to accomplish anything here unless you can get such orders as will keep the soldiers away from the bridge and from our hand-cars and materials. They have every stick of timber we had in the river out in the middle of the stream; some of it a qnarter of a mile below the bridge. I have spoken to the colonels and majors, but it is of no avail. I hope such orders will be sent at once, by telegraph, as will prevent the interference, and make them bring the timber back. W. C. QUINCY. May I ask that you telegraph such orders as will enable us to accom - plish, at the earliest practicable moment, this most important work? Our officers report that several thousand soldiers are encamped in the vicinity of bridge. J. W. GARRETT, President Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. HEADQUARTERS, Keedysville, Md., September 15, 18628 a. in. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief, U. S. Army: The battle of yesterday continued for fourteen hours, and until after dark. We held all we gained, except a portion of the extreme left; that was obliged to abandon a part of what it had gained. Our losses very heavy, especially in general officers. The battle will probably be re- newed to-day. Send all the troops you can by the most expeditious route. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., September 18, 186210 a. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN,. Comdg., Ildqrs. Army of the Potomac, near Sharpsburg, Md.: Your telegram to General Ripley, saying, If you can possibly do it, force some 20-pounder Parrott ammunition through to-night, via Hagers- town and Charnbersburg, to us, near Sharpsburg, ~ was received be- tween 10 and 11 oclock last night, and 2,500 rounds of this ammunition was ordered, with the least practicable delay, from the Arsenal, and ar- rangements made to run it through on all the roads at express passenger speed. It is now at or near Harrisburg, Pa., and will reach Hagerstown by noon to-day. P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War Page 323 CHAP. XXXI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 323 DEPOT QUARTERMASTERS OFFICE, CORNER EIGHTEENTH AND 0- STREETS, Washington, D. C., Septernbcr IS, 186210.30 p. in. Lient. Col. B. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster, Iidqrs. A. of P., near Sharpsburg, Aid.: Six hundred thousand rations were sent some days since from Balti~ more to Frederick. Captain Bell, commissary of subsistence, is now moving a train of 500,000 rations through Baltimore, on his way to es- tablish a depot at ilagerstown. I telegraphed Colonel Crosman to send grain daily to ilagerstown, till he gets forward 50,000 bushels, unless countermanded by you, in consequence of movements. Colonel Belger has been forwarding grain from Baltimore, oii orders from your army. Ammunition has been forwarded, and is still l)Ciflg forwarded, both to Frederick and Hagerstown. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, September 18, 186210.30 p. in. Superintendents NORTHERN CENTRAL IIAILWNY AND CUMBERLAND VALLEY RAILWAY, Harrisburg: Ammunition and subsistence are being forwarded from this place, via your roads, to Hagerstown. Dispatch is important to the success of the army. Please see that no obstacle delays their movement. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. ORDNANCE OFFICE, Washington, September 18, 18629.35 a. in. Gov. ANDREW 0-. CURTIN, llarrisburg, Pa.: Your dispatch was received late last night, and has been referred to the Secretary of War for instructions. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General, Chief of Ordnance. WASHINGTON, September 18,186212.20 p. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Near Hagerstown, Aid.: Four hundred and fourteen wagon-loads of field and small-arm ani- munition have been sent to Frederick, for your army, since Saturday last. Besides this, the duplicate supplies to be sent to Frederick aiid ilagerstown are being pushed forward with all possible dispatch. A special train, containing 2,500 rounds of 20-pounder ammunition, left last night for Hagerstown, in charge of Lieutenant Bradford, Ordnance Department. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Bri~jjadier- General, Chief of Ordnance Page 324 324 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. SEPTEMBER 18, 18623.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: I communicate, for your informfttion, the following telegrams, received this morning. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosures.] ARLINGToN12 m. Capt. RICHARD B. IRWIN, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: Colonel Davies reports more definitely as to the enemys force found at Leesburg. It was about 200 cavalry and 500 infantry; the latter com- posed of the force previously reported at Edwards Ferry and recovered sick and stragglers. They were intending to go to Harpers Ferry. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Major- General. ARLINGTON1.30 p. m. Capt. RICHARD B. IRWIN, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: Colonel Davies reports no force of enemy at Centrevilic. The enemy have pickets at Groveton, and Sixth Virginia at Salem; also many sick and nurses at Centreville. L. HUNT, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. UPTONS HILL, AS~eptember 18, 1862. Lieutenant-Colonel 1~IcKEEvER: I have a message from the expedition I sent out; will be back to- night. They, under Lieutenant-Colonel Kilpatrick, found the passage of Goose Creek disputed by a squadron of cavalry. This was dispos- sessed by artillery. They found at Leesburg one regiment of infantry and a battalion of cavalry, which they drove out of the town after a sharp action, in which the enemys loss was considerable. One flag and a considerable number of prisoners were taken. Our loss was but slight. The Tenth New York behaved very gallantly. Colonel Kilpat- rick reports there is no enemy between Harpers Ferry and Leesburg; none at Edwards Ferry, and but a few at Winchester. J. M. DAVIES, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, & ptember 18,18621.10 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesville: Two telegrams received. Send down for rations. The commanding general thinks that, Harpers Ferry being almost beyond a doubt in the enemys hands, and in the present uncertainty as to the result of opera- tions of yesterday and the next day or two, concerning which some so- licitude is felt here, it will be best not to detach any portion of the forces ~ow here, for the present. IIICHI) B. IRWIN, Cajj4ain, Aide-dc-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. (len Page 325 CHAP. XXXI.1 CORRESPONDENCE, E~tC .IfNION. 325 HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 18, 18621.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesville: The following telegram, just received from General lleintzelman, is sent for your information: Colonel Davies reports more definitely as to the eueniys force found at Leesbnrg. It was about 200 cavalry and 500 infantry; the latter composed of the force previ- ously reported at Edwards Ferry and recovered sick and stragglers. RICHD B. iRWIN, Captain, Aide-de- Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Washington, September 18, 186210 p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Commanding Defenses, Arlington, Va.: Referring to your indorsement on General Birneys report of the 17th, the commanding general thinks it will be best for you to attempt the burial of the dead under a flag of truce. If the enemy will not receive the flag, we can afterward try and accomplish the object by a strong armed party. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adyt. Gen. POINT OF ROCKS, MD., September 18, 1862. Captain ECKERT: Went to Sandy Hook. Line all right to Harpers Ferry Bridge, ex- cept between two poles. Thirty rebel pickets this side of the bridge, but were about leaving wheu I left, at 5 oclock. There are less than 200 rebels in Harpers Ferry. No artillery. A large fire broke out a~ I was leaving, probably the pontoon bridge and Government property. The tents left by our troops remain standing. A rebel lieutenant told two women, who left Harpers Ferry at noon, that they were surrounded, and should leave as soon as possible. A negro from Shepherdstown states that the rebels attempted to cross the river last night, but, water being too deep, many were drowned. Our men that were killed on Maryland Heights during Saturdays fight are still unburied. The rebel killed and wounded were about 355 in that days fight. Citizens of Sandy Hook are burying our dead. We will go in advance as soon as relieved, and thence to Harpers Ferry. The bridge at Harpers Ferry was burned, but the piers are good. They tried five times to blow them up, but did not succeed. WM. C. HALL, Operator. ALEXANDRIA, VA., September 18, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The Nineteenth Regiment of Connecticut Volunteers has just reported, under orders from General Casey, to relieve the Thirty-third Massach Page 326 32~3 OPERATIONS IN N. TA., W. VA., MP., AND PA. (CHAr. kkXt. setts, just installed for duty here. The colonel of the Nineteenth in- forms me that he has but 850 menraw al)d undisciplined troops. As it requires over 800 men for daily duty, the Nineteenth will be insuffi- cient. I am compelled, therefore, to ask, in addition to the Nineteenth, another regiment, or that the Thirty-third be allowed to remain. The withdrawal of troops before caused disorder, and, unless I have at least 1,200 men, Alexandria will be overrun again. I would appeal to Gen- eral Banks, but I am there unheard, and must, therefore, to you. JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 248. Washington, & ~ptember 18, 1862. I. Brig. Gen. Herman Haupt, U. S. Volunteers, is authorized and directed to do whatever he may deem expedient to facilitate the trans- portation of troops and supplies to aid the armies now in the field in Virginia and Maryland. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. Nelson Taylor, U. S. Volunteers, will report in person, without delay, to Major-General McClellan, commanding Army of the Potomac. By command of Major-General ilalleck: E. B. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant. General. ORIXNANCE OFFICE, Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Washington, September 18, 1862. flarrisburg, Pa.: By direction of the Secretary of War, two millions of buck and ball cartridges and one million of cartridges of .58 caliber have been ordered to be sent to you from New York, with dispatch. I am instructed to inquire if all the arms in the State arsenal have been issued to troops in the field and to more can be issued. , say that until this is done no JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier- General, Chief of Ordnance. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 18, 1862. Brig. Gen. JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Harrisburg, Pa.: Give General McClellan all aid in your power. No troops have arrived here for the last two days, and it is supposed that some mnst have been detained in Pennsylvania. General Wool Ii as none to spare from Bal- timore. II. XV. HALLECK General-in- Chief Page 327 CHAP. ikxi.j CORI1fl~SI1ONPENCE, EtC UNION. ~327 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 18, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: If possible, send some troops by rail to Hagerstown to join General McClellan. In the present condition of affairs, it is believed that some regiments may be spared from railroad guards. This must be left to your judgment. Any new regiments arriving at Baltimore can be sent immediately to Hagerstown. Take possession of the railroad, if neces- sary. H. W. HALLECK, General-in~ Chief. BALTIMORE, MD., September 18, 186211.35 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I sent this morning about 1,700 Maryland troops, under command of General Kenly, via Harrisburg, to Hagerstown, to report to Major-Gen- eral McClellan. I have ordered the Sixth Maryland, 600 strong, and four pieces of artillery, with horses, to proceed as above this evening. These are all that 1 can spare from here. I ordered one regiment from the Northern Central Railroad. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. P. SYour dispatch of 10.30 a. m. is received I mentioned in my dispatch last evening that two regiments were at the Patuxent, subject to General Banks orders. Cannot they be spared? I will be com- pelled to send some troops with the prisoners marching on foot to An- napolis. This is required on account of the depredations they commit wherever they go. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 18, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: The two regiments at the Patuxent are subject to your orders. Gen- eral Banks thinks that one can be spared. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chiqf. - HARRISBURG, PA., September 18, 1862. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The ammunition train for General McClellan was delivered to the Northern Central Railroad, at Baltimore, at 6.57 this a. in., and was de- livered to the Cumberland Valley Railroad at 10.20 a. in.; 84 miles two hours and fifty-three minutes. It will be put through at same speed to Hagerstown. - J. N. DuBARRY, Superintendent Page 328 328 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. BALTIMORE, MD., September 18, 1802. Major-General. HALLECK: In consequence of the very large amount of transportation for liar- risburg over the Cumberland Valley Railroad, exceeding, I fear, the capacity of the road, I have arranged, with the approval of General Wool, Colonel Belger, and President Garrett, that all troops and supplies from Baltimore and points south thereof shall be sent over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. I have also ordered our bridge force from Alexandria to proceed to-night to re-enforce the party engaged in the reconstruc- tion of the Monocacy Bridge. H. HAUPT. WHEELING, VA., September 18, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: It seems all of Ohio belongs to General Wrights division, and there is a want of authority to order the Ohio troops in the vicinity of Point Pleasant to the assistance of Colonel Lightburn, on the Virginia si(le. I would ask that you make an order at once, directing all the troops Governor Tod has sent for the defense of tl~at section to report for orders to Colonel Lightburn, and if the events of yesterday will enable you to spare Crook, Hartsuff, or Crawford, send one immediately. F. II. PEIRPOINT, Gorernor of Virginia. HARRISBURG, PA., September 18, 18621.40 a. m. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: I will see the officers in person. No delay shall occur that it is pos- sil)le to avoid. Can you give me an idea of the number of cars in train, so that suitable power can be ready to move it I Answer immediately. THOMAS A. SCOTT. WASHINGTON, Se tember iS, 1862. Hon. THOMAS A. SCOTT: The train contains four cars. P. H. WATSON. HARRISBURG, PA., September 18, 18622 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: No effort shall be spared to expedite movements of traiii. I have already advised officers of all the roads to push it through with prefer- ence over all other trains. THOMAS A. SCOTT. HARRISBURG, PA., September 18, 18628 a. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The extra ammunition train had not reached Baltimore at 7 oclock. Is it coming? We have about six car-loads of 6-pounder artillery an Page 329 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .~lJNION. 329 some musket ammunition, which I am now loading up, and will forward it up the valley if the other cannot reach here. We had arrangements pertected through to move the train 40 miles per hour. Please answer. THOMAS A. SCOTT. HARRISBURG, PA., September 18, 186210 a. m. E. M. STANTON: Hagerstown reports no firing up to 9 oclock. A rumor is prevalent that McClellan granted armistice to bury dead. Your ammunition train left Baltimore 7.30, and will be put through quick. Governor and staff have gone to Hagerstown to expedite movement of Pennsylvania forces to battle.field. Surgeon Smith also gone, with 40 surgeons. THOMAS A. SCOTT. HARRISBURG, PA., September 18, 18622.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Ammunition has been delivered at Hagerstown. Stock in this arsenal has gone up also by train this p. m. The Governor ordered more am- munition and some arms last night. They are needed. Will they be sent I Chief of Ordnance telegraphs Governor that he refers it to you. Please answer. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Aide-dc- Camp. PIIILADELPIITA, PA., September 18, 186210 a. m. Hon. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War: Our shop hands at Reading have volunteered in a body. Governor Curtin has accepted them, and ordered them to Harrisburg. If you cannot stop them our road will stop, and your coal ~vill stop also. It requires instant attention, as they mean to leave to. day. CHAS. E. SMITH. HAGERSTOWN, MD., September 18, 18621 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: A large portion of the Pennsylvania militia, now here, have declined to move forward, as reqnested by Major-General McClellan. General iRey nolds left for McClellans headquarters last night, at McClellans request, and left me here, with instructions to send all of the troops forward. About 2,500 have gone, but the Tenth, Eleventh, Twelfth, Thirteenth, and Fifteenth Regiments, numbering about 800 each, decline to proceed. TheeFourteenth has not yet finally decided whether to go or not. Governor Curtin has just arrived, and may induce the troops to advance. I. YOGDES, Major, ifc. Page 330 830 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MP, AND PA. (C~i~. x~X1. HAGERSTOWN, MD., September 18, 1862. Col. A. STAGER: General Reynolds started to join General McClellan He took some Pennsylvania militia with him. Governor Curtin will be here at noon to hurry others up. No official information from the front. It is ru- mored that an armistice has been asked for by General Jackson. No firing heard to-day as yet. As soon as wire arrives, I start to build a line to Boonsborough. W. B. WILSON. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 19, 18628.30 a. m. (Received 11 a. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: But little occnrred yesterday except skirmishing, being fully occu- pied in replenishing ammunition, taking care of wounded, & c. Last night the enemy abandoned his position, leaving his dead and wounded is falling back to an interior position or crossing the river. We may safely claim a complete victory. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 19, 186210.30 a. m. (Received 11 a. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Pleasonton is driving the enemy across the river. Our victory was complete. The enemy is driven back into Virginia. Maryland and Pennsylvania are now safe. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 19, 1862. (Sent 12.30 P. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN: Yours of 8.30 and 10.30 are just received. All available troops from railroad guards were sent to you yesterday. Enemy~~ forces at Lees- burg were moved yesterday. Stonemans provisional division, unless ordered otherwise by you, is still guarding fords below Point of Rocks. So long as the river remains low there is much danger of a movement below your left. Letters received here give it as a part of Lees orig- inal plan to draw you as far as possible up the Potomae, and then move between you and Washington. Perhaps his defeat.may be such as to prevent the attempt. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief Page 331 dITAP. Xxxi] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. ~331 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Keedysville [Md.], September 19, 1862. Maj. Gen. FITz JOHN POUTER: GENERAL: General Sumner reports that the enemys artillery is mov- ing to the west, and that he (the enemy) is felling trees behind him, as elsewhere. The commanding general directs you to push forward your pickets; ascertain if the enemy appears to be retiring, and, if so, to mass your troops in readiness to move in any direction. The corps com- manders and General Pleasonton are directed to do the same, and the latter to throw out small cavalry detachments on the various roads lead- ing from our position in the direction of the enemys retreat, to ascertain the nature and degree of the obstructions therein. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 19, 186210.45 p. m. Major-General PORTER: GENERAL: General Pleasonton has been directed to have his cavalry and artillery at the river by daylight, and has been informed that you intend to cross at that time, and would co-operate with him. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 19, 1862il p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The commanding general, after consulting with the General-in-Chief, directs that you send out a force of cavalry, as suggested by General Birney, to capture the wagons, or, at any rate, to make the attempt. The men (Whitlock and Richmond) who came in with the last party are considered reliable. They will be here at 9 a. m. to-morrow, and will be at once sent over to act as guides. Please give the necessary orders for the movement. It will not be hecessary for you to come over in the morning. By command of Major-General Banks: RICIID B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. WASHINGTON, September 19, 18629.45 a. m. Maj. R. H. K. WHITELEY, U. S. Arsenal, Governors Island, New York: Issue at once to Gov. A. G. Curtin, Harrisburg, Pa., two millions of round ball cartridges and one million of .58 caliber cartridges. Request quartermaster to send by quick conveyance and special messenger. Report by telegraph when shipment is made. This dispatch was pre- pared yesterday, but was mislaid. JAS. W. RIPLEY, Brigadier-General, Chief of Ordnance Page 332 332 OPERATIONS IN N. VA, W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. HARRISBURG, PA., & ptember 19, 1862. Brigadier-General RIPLEY, Chief of Ordnance: Your message received. The arms in State arsenal are issued only to troops in the field. Our suppiy is nearly exhausted. We have less than 3,000 stand in arsenal, and no accouterments. Men are constantly pouring in under the late call. My wish is to anticipate a deficiency, and not have men lying here by thousands waiting for arms. A. G. CURTIX, Governor. HAGERSTOWN, MD., & ptember 19, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Your dispatch of 10 a. m. reached me here while I was on the battle. field, to which pLace I started last night with the force of militia. I had at this place about 4,000 men, and directed the remainder to be for- warded to-day, expecting to bring on the field to-day about 14,000 men, but, much to my surprise, all the regiments refused to march. They are now all at this point, or will be about here to-night. What will be done, or can be done, with the force here I cannot say, though I do not think much can be expected of themnot very much. The Governor is here. I apprised General McClellan of these circumstances to-day by letter. The Governor will take them to the field, if it is necessary, to-morrow. JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Brigadier. General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 19, 18627.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The lieutenant-colonel commanding the One hundred and thirty-first New York, at Patuxent, has just refused to obey my orders, saying that he was under the orders of General Banks. The order was repeated, but it now appears that he will not be ready to proceed until 12 oclock to- night, if then. From the description which the quartermaster of the regiment, who has just arrived, gives me of its condition, I find that it would be utterly useless in the field. I have, therefore, ordered it to Annapolis, where we want several regiments (at least three or four) to keep the paroled prisoners in order. We shall soon have more than 20,000 at that place. I have no more regiments to send from here. All that could be spared have been sent to General McClel]an. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. BALTIMORE, Mn., September 19, 186211.40 p. m. Hon. E. ~ STANTON, Secretary of War: We have about 10,000 prisoners surrendered at Harpers Ferry, and ordered to Annapolis. These, with what are there, will make 20,000. We require, to keep these men in order, four regiments. I have one mis- erable regiment at Annapolis. I have another ordered from Patuxent there, but it is a very poor regiment. Two other regiments ought to be sent there immediately, in consequence of the plundering propensities of the prisoners, of which there are many complaints. I have none to spare, having sent all I could spare to General McClellan. I have a di Page 333 CHAP. XXXI.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 333 patch that the rebels have recrossed the Potomac. Look out for Wash- ington. You are not out of the woods. The rebels are a day and a half in advance of McClellan. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. [P. S.]Colonel Miles had about 12,000 men for the defense of Har- 1)ers Ferry, including 1,500 cavalry, which made their escape before the surrender. WEVERTON, MD., September 19, 1862. Captain ECKERT: Pontoon bridge at Harpers Ferry destroyed last night. No enemy in harpers Ferry, except small scouting l)arties coming in occasionally. All the property the rebels could not move from Harpers Ferry they have destroyed. All our pickets in this vicinity have been ordered in. We have none above Point of Rocks. I will put line in order to Sandy Hook, and work there to-night. We have no troops in Harpers Ferry. Just saw two of Maryland cavalry who visited Harpers Ferry. ED. CONWAY. P. S.No firing heard for last hour and a half. I am 13 miles from Sharpsburg; 6 from Burkittsville. HAGERSTOWN, MD., September 19, 18629.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Our information this evening, from a reliable source, is that the enemy in front of McClellan commenced to cross the river last night, and finished this morning. They are all on the south side. A force of the enemy occupies Williamsport and threatens Hagerstown; numbers not ascertained, but further information expected to-night. About 7,000 Pennsylvania militia, under General Reynolds, have gone toward Will iamsl)ort. In case of any attack on Hagerstown, which I do not ap- prehend, we will take care that no considerable amount of supplies falls into the hands of the enemy. H. HAUPT. HARRISBURG, PA., September 19, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON: If the victory in Maryland is complete, and the rebels driven across the Potomac or captured, shall the Governor arrange immediately to dis- band State forces called out to resist invasion ~ Governor is iu Mary- land. Please advise. THOMAS A. SCOTT, Aide-de- Camp. WASHINGTON, September 19, 1862. General REYNOLDS, Hagerstou~n, Md.: Please report the regiments which refused to march when ordered.* H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. * Answer, if any, not found; b~t see Yogdes to Halleek, p. 3~9 Page 334 334 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. WASHINGTON, & pternber 19, 1862. Governor PEIRPOINT, Wheeling: Western Yirginia is attached to the Department of the Ohio, head- quarters at Cincinnati.* Consult with General Wright about officers and troops to be sent to Colonel Liglitburn. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Centreville [Keedysville, Md.], September 20, 18626.30 a. in. General MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have started two brigades of cavalry and a battery of artillery to Jones Cross-Roads, to proceed in the direction of Williams- port. That force will be amply sufficient for any rebels to be met in that quarter. The remainder of my command is about getting off for Shepherds- town. The order of Maj. Gen. Fitz John Porter of yesterday, sending my command to the rear, by the order of General McClellan, and which was transmitted by Gemieral Buford, has interfered most materially with a proper pursuit of the enemy. Many of the men of my command have had nothing to eat for two days, and last night, in consequence of the movement to the rear, they missed their trains, and are now starting out without anything. I would also call to the attention of the general commanding the fact that neither provisions nor forage can be obtained in Virginia, that country having been eaten out by the rebels. 1 have therefore to request that supplies be pushed on to me,if I find it advan- tageous to proceed on after the enemy, on reaching him. 1 trust, after the past experience of yesterday, the general commanding will not per- mit corps commanders to interfere with the cavalry under my command, for it breaks up all my system and plans. I shall do everything in my power to make up for the time we have lost. I am, general, very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON Brigadier-General, Commanding Cavalry Division. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 20, 186210.30 a. m. General FITZ JOHN PORTER: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you dispose your guns upon the river bank so as to cover the recrossing of your command, should it become necessary, and send back word to meet the general, who starts for the river soon, provided you want re-enforcements. Very respectfully, B. B. MARCY, Chief of Stafi. HEADQUARTERS SYKES DIVISION, September 20, 18629.15 a. m. General FITZ JOHN PORTER: GENERAL: General Lovells small brigade is three-fourths of a mile from the river. He reports a brigade, at least, of the enemy advancing, * By Paragraph II, General Orders, No. 135, War Department, Adjutant-Generals OWee, of same date Page 335 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 335 and with cannon. I have not a gun on this side. I have sent Colonel Barnes temporarily to the top of the hill to support Lovell. I will get Meade [Warren] over as soon as I can. I think more troops ought to be here, and some one in authority. GEG. SYKES, Brigadier-General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 20, 1862. General STONEMAN, Poolesville: It is represented here that wounded officers of Stuarts cavalry are on the Maryland side, unparoled. This matter must not be neglected. It is also represented that the troops of your division are pillaging and plundering the country. Stringent measures must be resorted to to enforce order. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. POINT OF ROCKS, Mn., September 20, 186211.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General -in-Chief: I have had but one case (of a wounded officer) reported to me, and the i~erson reporting him did not know his whereabouts. I know of no officer of the rebel army in Maryland, unparoled. The whole country is covered with stragglers from General McClellans army, and they are the depredators. I am trying to collect them together. Every means in our power has been taken to prevent pillaging by the troops under my command. From the time we left Washington squads of men were passed, who said they had been sent forward to find and join their regi- ments. Some were out of hospitals, & c. They are now all being stopped at the mouth of the Monocacy. GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier. General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, September 20, 18623 p. m. Licut. Col. R. INGALLS, Headquarters Army of the Potomac, near Sharpsburg: - it is reported that the Monocacy Bridge will be l)assable to-morrow. The railroad to Hagerstown is of small capacity, and liable to be blocked up if attempts are made to move too much over it. Consider this in arranging and ordering supplies. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. WASHINGTON, September 20, 186212.40 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: I communicate the following telegram, jnst received from General Stoneman, for your information: POINT OF ROCKS, [September] 20, 186210 a. in. General BANKS: The force I sent to Harpers Ferry last night has just returned. They crossed the river and found no enemy in the place, but about 300 of our sick and woun4ed there Page 336 3~6 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. Everything is destroyed; pontoon bridge easily repaired for infantry to cross, and ford about 2 feet deep. Enemy crossing the river all day yesterday; our forces fol- lowed. I think my brigade might be withdrawn with perfect safety. GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier-General. RICIID B. IRWIN, Gaptain, Aide.de.Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, & ptember 20, 18622.30 i. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Bid qrs. Army of the Potomac: Telegram of 1.25 received. The military governor of the District of Columbia was instructed a few days since to send forward only such recruits as might arrive in squads, armed and equipped, and in charge of competent officers, and to give the most stringent instructions to the officers to prevent straggling and avoid delay. Orders have just been issued to send none. There are about 50 officers and 3,500 men fit for dQty in the camp of convalescents, stragglers, and recruits. They will be organized, so that they can go forward at once when called for. N. P. BANKS, Miajor- General, Commanding. Statement 8howing the number of men composing the Army of the Potomac on the 20th day of September, 1862. p a a . a SS a - 0,Z ni Command. ~ a CLo bC~a ir Q,,.4 Ii ie p-a Hi Hi a Hi Hi ~ ~1 ..a4 General McClellan and staff, & c 1, 393 226 949 2, 568 General Meade, First Corps 12, 237 856 18~490 31, 583 General Sumner, Second Corps 13, 604 2, 465 11, 701 27, 770 General couchs division, Fourth Corps 7,219 771 4,417 12, 407 General F. J. Porter, Fifth Corps..- 19,477 1,383 11,819 32, 679 General Franklin, Sixth Corps 11, 862 1, 504 9, 990 23, 356 General Buraside, Ninth Corps 10, 734 1, 329 12, 282 24, 345 General A. S. Williams, Twelfth Corps - 8, 383 1, 632 7, 144 17, 159 General Pleasonton, Cavalry Division 4,543 515 2,628 7,686 Colonel Allen, Frederick City 1, 110 292 861 2, 263 General Kenly, Williamsport, Md 2, 269 218 1, 174 3, 701 Major Scott, Bonusborough, Md 318 41 81 442 General Banks, Defenses of Washington, including Third and Eleventh Corps 71, 210 13, 043 23, 586 107, 839 Grand total . 164,359 24,315 105,124 293,798 ADJuTANT-GENEEAL~S OFFICE, Washington, D. 0., February 27, 1863. It is hereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately corn- piled from the morning report of the 20th day of September, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assjstant adjutant-general, Seth Williams, and now on file in this office. L. THOMAS, 4d~jutaut. Gen~rai Page 337 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 337 Abstract from fri-monthly return of the Defen8es of Wa8hington, Maj. Gen. N. I-. Banks commanding, for September 20, 1~62, Headquarters Washington, D. C. Present for duty. ~ - ~, ~,O a. Command. .~ ~ ~ Remarks. a a an. bL~ ~ o ~ ~ p~ ~ Headquarters, staff, escorts, 32 427 554 755 1 3 & c. Garrisons. 790 18, 559 21, 354 23, 150 17, 745 City Guards Washington, D. C 120 1, 802 2, 558 4, 202 5, 014 I Divisions of Morell and Alexandria, Va 71 1, 645 2, 038 2, 092 3,154 I Humphreys marched T~ . yj~j to1jointhe army in the - - ~ - . Stoneman, with one bri- gade of his division Third Corps, Maj. Gen. S. P. 787 16,340 20, 602 29, 599 44 24, I and two new re Heintzelman. ~. ments, detached to t~o Eleventh Corps, Maj. Gen. 459 9, 840 12, 975 19, 337 52 17, 087 Upper Potomac. F. Sigel. Caseys provisional bri Divisi(,n, Brig. Gen. A. W. 189 3, 645 4, 356 5, 610 8 9, 869 I gahes concentrated on Whipple. the Virginia side. Division, Brig. Gen. Silas 268 6, 100 6, 757 7, 079 16 4,481 Tworegimentsstationed Casey. at therailway crossing Corps of Observation, Upper 130 4, 322 4, 658 6, 766 6 5, 266 of the Potomac, BrigGen. George Patuxent. Stoneman. Cavairy Brigade (Bayards), 73 1, 627 1, 875 2, 723 4, 255 CoL J. M. Davies. Camp of convalescents,strag. 51 3, 933 6, 526 6, 526 glers, and recrnits, Bri~ Gen. J. P. Slough. Grand total 2, 970 68, 240 84, 253 107, 839 127 89, 377 NOTEAggregate present and absent, last return, Major-General Morells dIvision, 17,000, not reported on this abstract. Abstract from fri-monthly return of the Middle Department (Eighth Army Corps), Maj. Gen. John E. Wool commanding, for September 20, 1862, headquarters Baltimore, Aid. Present for duty. ~ Command. a a bO av~ a an o n a be bt o ~ Department staff 25 25 25 halt imore and vicinity 363 8, 805 10, 032 11, 193 Thiladelphia 2 2 2 Anuapoli~ 59 1,419 1, 608 1, 794 Relay House 29 794 981 994 Fort Delaware , 16 519 639 669 Eastern Sbore 37 6t)8 772 783 ~1iscellaueous garrisons - 235 5,697 6,623 7,069 Total 766 17,842 20,682 22,529 Attached (Philadelphia) 8 192 198 424 were also at Annapolis 195 officers and 6,066 n~en paroled prIsone~s ~vw flarpers Ferry. 22 U UVOL XIX, PT II CHAP. XXXI. Page 338 338 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL Troops in the Middle 1)epartment (Eighth Army Corps), Maj. Gen. John 19. Wool, U. & Army, commanding, September 20, 1862. Defenses of Baltimore. Byt. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM W. MORRIS. 18th Connecticut,* Col. William G. Ely. 17th Indiana Battery, Capt. M. L. Miner. 5th New York Heavy Artillery (six com- panies), Col. Samuel Graham. 129th New York,t Col. Peter A. Porter. 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Col. James A. Galligher. Purnell Legion (Maryland Cavalry), Com- pany C, Capt. Theodore Clayton. 2d U. S. Artillery, Battery I, Lient. Thomas Grey. 5th U. S. Artillery, Battery L, Capt. Samuel F. Chalfin. Annapolis. Col. JOHN F. STAUNTON. 131st New York, Col. Charles S. Turnbull. 67th Pennsylvania, Col.JolinF. Staunton. Pnrnell Legion (Maryland Cavalry), Coin- pany B, Capt. Thomas H. Watkins. Paroled prisoners. Fort Delaware. Maj. HENRY S. BURTON. Pennsylvania Artillery (four independent batteries). 1st Battalion, Pennsylvania Marine and Fortification Artillery (two companies). Troops guarding Baltimore. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM H. EMORY. 2d Eastern Shore (Maryland), Col. Ed ward Wilkins. 38th Massachusetts, Col. Timothy In- graham. 6th New York Heavy Artillery, Col. William H. Morris. 110th New York, Col. DeWitt C. Little- john. 114th New York, Col. Elisha B. Smith. 116th New York, Col. Edward P. Chapin. 128th New York, Col. David S. Cowles. 150th New York, Col. John H. Ketcham. Eastern Shore. Brig. Gen. H. H. LocKwooD. 1st Eastern Shore (Maryland), Col. James Wallace. Purnell Legion (Maryland Cavalry), Com- pany A, Capt. Robert E. Duvall. Belay House. Col. C. L. K. SUMWALT. 138th Pennsylvania, Col. C. L. K. Sum- walt. 2d New York Artillery Battalion, Bat- tery B, Capt. H. J. MeMahan. Miscellaneous. 4th Delaware, Col. A. H. Grimshaw, Wilmington, Del. 12th New Jersey, Col. Robert C. Johnson, Ellicotts Mills, Md. 14th New Jersey, Col William S. Truex, Monocacy, Md. 109th New York, Col. B. F. Tracy, Annapolis Junction, Md. 141st New York, Col. S. G. 1-lathaway, Laurel, Md. Patapsco Guards (Maryland), Capt. T. S. McGowan, York, Pa. 140th Pennsylvania, Col. R. P. Roberts, Parkton, Md. 148th Pennsylvania, Col. J. A. Beaver, Cockeysville, Md. Transferred4 23d Illinois, Col. James A. Mulligan. 2d Maryland Potomac Home Brigade, Col. Robert Bruoe. 106th New York, Col. Schuyler F. Judd. 84th Ohio,~ Lient. Col. John J. Wiseman 86th Ohio,jj Col. Barnabas Burns. 87th Pennsylvania, Col. George Hay. 6th West Virginia, Col. N. Wilkinson. 10th West Virginia, Col. T. M. Harris. 11th West Virginia, Col. John C. Rathbone. 12th West Virginia, Col. John B. Kiunk. 1st West Virginia Cavalry (one company). 1st Illinois Light Artillery, Battery L, Capt. John Rourke. * Detachments at Back River, Bush River, Harewood, and Havre de Grace. t Or Eighth New York Heavy Artillery. Troops of the Railroad District of Western Virginia trnneferred, September 19, 1862, to the Department of the Ohio. ~S Mustered out September 20, 1862, jj Mustered out September 25, 1862 Page 339 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.LJNION. 339 WASHINGTON, D. C., September ~1, 1862. (Sent 1.20 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN: Your t~legrains of 8 a. in. and 11 p. in. yesterday are just received. Geiieral Banks had anticipated the order you suggest. The Govern- inent has been most anxious for the last two days to obtain the informa- tion given in yours of yesterday morning, just received, and you have entirely misconstrued the urgency of my request for it. Except your short dispatch, in regard to Pleasontons pursuit, I had no official in- formation of what had taken place since the battle of the 17th. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. CAMP I~EAR THE PoToMAClO a. in., Via Frederick, Aid., September 21, 18626.45 p. in. (Received 8 p. in.) Maj. (Thu. II. W HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Re-eiiforcernents were sent last night to General Couch, at Williams- I)o1t. No news has been received from there since 11 p. in. yesterday, when the enemy were still there. They yet remain at Shepherdstowu in some force. Some firing is going on; I think it only their rear guard. It is still quite foggy, and we can tell better when it clears away. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 21, 18625 p. in. (Received 9.15 a. in., 22d.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I propose to send a regiment of cavalry to Cumberland, and thence to Romiey and south of that place, 111 order to ascertain if any of the rebel force recently before it is moving toward Western Virginia. in this connection it is iinportaiit for me to know as soon as possible what force we now have guarding the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad froiii Mar- tinsbnrg west toward Wheeling. Will you do me the favor to answer this at the earliest practicable moment? GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- Ueneral. SHARPSBURG, September 21, 1862. (Received 8 p. in.) General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: It is probable that this army must have its main depot at or near Harpers Ferry, provided it remains at all in this section of country after the enemy has left it entirely. We are more than 20 miles froni the Frederick and 15 from the ilagerstown depots. The country here on both sides of the Potomac is exhausted of all supplies, it would be found impracticable to supply so large an army beyond the river with wagons. I presume that General McClellan will shortly reach th Page 340 340 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CRAP. XXXt and of Harpers Ferry, so that our supplies may be sent by railroad canal. He desires me to request you to order the repairs of the canal. Its agents are at Georgetown. We are now drawing from Fred- erick and Hagerstown. The corps of Franklin and Couchs division are at Williamsport, and supplied from Hagerstown. RUFUS INGALLS, Lieutenant-Colonel, Aide-de-Camp, and Chief Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 21, 1862. General JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Commanding Pennsylvania Militia, Hagerstown, Md.: General McClellan directs me to say to you that General Franklin was requested to state to you to-day that, as there was no further use for the Pennsylvania militia, they could now return into their State. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 258. Camp near Sharpsburg, Md., September 21, 1802. * * * * * * III. At his own request, Brig. Gen. John Newton U S Volunteers, is relieved from duty with the Army of the Potomac, and will report in person to the Adjutant-General of the Army. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Washington, September 21, 18621.30 p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The following telegram, from Thomas R. Brayton to Brigadier-General Haupt, is communicated for your information: I have this moment returned from near Bull Run. Saw 3 men, who live between Bristoe and Catletts, making their escape, as the rebels are pressing all the inhab- itants into service. They are taking away our seven engines, all car-wheels, axles and irons from Manassas and Bristoe. They have probably repaired bridge at Bristoe and coming to and through Manassas Gap road, or, which is more probable to me, they have thrown a structure across the Rapidan, and going that way. I do not think it will take much of a force to prevent this. My informants are, I think, reliable. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 21, 1862. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: SIR: To be ready to prevent the execution of one of the ends which the enemy may now propose to himself by the reoccupation of 1~1aua8 Page 341 OOE~PONb1ci~, I~P~1xt2tNION. 341 sas, and to intercept any movement he may intend through Manassas and ~[horoughfare, or Aslibys and Aldie, Gaps, the commanding gen- eral directs that you at once advance a brigade to Ceutreville, increasing this force to a division at the earliest possible moment thereafter. The cavalry reconnaissance toward Ashby~s Gap will cover their movement to-day, but as soon as it returns a strong force of cavalry must be pushed as far as possible toward the Rapidan, to observe the enemys movements in that quarter. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, RJCHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. As~t. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 21, 1S62. Brigadier-General CULLUM, Chief of Staff, Headquarters of the Army: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Major Braytons telegram to General Haupt, from your headquarters. The reconnaissance of 2,000 cavalry, with artillery, instructed to go to Ashbys Gap, or as far in that direction as possible, and which left Arlington yesterday morning, will intercept, or at least ascertain, any and all movements contemplated by the enemy in the direction of Ma- nassas Gap, which is the first mountain pass south of Ashbys, and dis- tant from Ashbys about 10 miles. It is expected the force will return by the way of 1~Ianassas Railroad. Measures will be taken to intercept any movement of the enemy in retreat by the way of the Rapidan. But it does not seem probable that they will retreat in that direction. They will probably place the mountains between our army and theirs, and fortify strongly all the passes. If the statement of the refugees to Major Brayton be correct, is it not probable that the repairs of railroads and bridges has reference to the reoccupation of Manassas? The conscription referred to is in the ordinary course of the rebel orders for the re-enforcement of their army, to replace daily losses. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, MD., September 21, 1862. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: A large amount of stores is now in cars at Monocacy. The force at that point and at Frederick is not sufficient for their protection. There are about 200 cars now to be unloaded at Frederick. No artillery at either point. If Harpers Ferry is in possession of the enemy the sup- plies are in danger. I have suggested to Mr. Garrett the propriety of running back some of the cars until quartermasters department is ready to unload them. General Wool will send two pieces of artillery to Monocacy. He has one regiment of raw troops at that point, and no other troops that he can send, having sent to General McClellan alt that can be spared. I will see you to-morrow and report personally. H. HAUPT Page 342 342 OPERAPIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI WASHINGTON, D. C., September 22, 186211 a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Camp near Sharpsburg, Md.: By last returns there were eight companies at Cumberland, thirty at Dry [New] Creek, and one at Itomney. There were also several com- panies at Beverly and south, bat it is believed that they have been drawn in by General Kelley. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, September 92, 186212.55 p. in. Lient. Col. IR. INGALLS, Chief Quartermaster and Aide-dc- (amp, fldqrs. Army of the Potomac, near Sharpsburg, Md.: Yesterdays dispatch received last night. While the right bank of the Potomac is occupied by rebels, the canal cannot be repaired or used. It is generally under artillery fire. The railroad bridge at Monocacy is replaced, and the road can be made passable to Point of Rocks, and, if protected, to Harpers Ferry. Stores accumulate at Monocacy an(l Frederick, and apprehensions are felt for their safety. The country roads between Frederick and Washington offer rare temptations to cavalry and infantry raids. The river is reported fordable in twenty places, and is not sufficiently guarded. Take care of your communications and lines of supply. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, Near the Potomac, September 22, 186212 noon. (Received 7.30 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in. Chief: When I was assigned to the command of this army in Washington, it was suffering under the disheartening influence of defeat. It had been greatly reduced by casualties in General Popes campaign, and its effi- ciency had been much impaired. The sanguinary battles fought by these troops at South Mountain and Antietam Creek have resulted in a loss to us of 10 general officers and many regimental and company offi- cers, besides a large number of enlisted men. The army corps have been badly cut up and scattered by the overwhelming numbers brought against them in the battle of the 17th instant, and the entire army has been greatly exhausted by unavoidable overwork, hunger, and want of sleep and rest. When the enemy recrossed the Potomac the means of transportation at my disposal was inadequate to furnish a single days supply of subsistence in advance. Under these circumstances I did not feel authorized to cross the river in pursuit of the retreating enemy, and thereby place that streamwhich is liable at any time to rise above a fording stagebetween this army and its base of supply. As soon as the exigencies of the service will admit of it, this army should be reor- ganized. It is absolutely necessary, to secure its efficiency, that the ol Page 343 CHAP. X~Xt.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .-~UNION. 343 skeleton regiments should be filled up at once, and officers appointed to supply the numerous existing vacancies. There are instances where cap- tains are commanding regiments, and companies without a single com- missioned officer. Franklins corps marched to Williamsport yesterday morning to re- enforce Couch. They now occupy that l)lace, the enemy having retreated on their approach. Williams (Banks) corps occupies Maryland Heights. Sumners corps is en route for the same point, and Meades (Hookers) corps will probably follow it soon. I propose, as soon as the pontoon bridge can be relaid (it is expected to arrive to-day), to cross these troops and occupy Harpers Ferry and Charlestowi, with a view of pushing them out into the Shenandoah Valley as soon as practicable. Burusides and Porters corps are here. The enemy still continues to show his pickets along the river, and with a large force drove back the last re- connaissance that was attempted on the other side. A. large body of the enemy was reported last night as moving from Charlestown toward Bunker Hill, and I am of the opinion that the mass of their army is re- treating in that direction. I am sending out scouts in every direction, and will keep you advised of all I learn of the movements of the enemy. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 22, 1862. (Received 5.30 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: lurgently request that the president of the Chesapeake an(l Ohio Canal Company be asked to repair the canal at once. That he should do so is indispensably necessary for ulterior military operations. I also request that all the small steamers plying on the canal may be sent to Harpers Ferry as soon as the repairs shall have been completed. By my direc- tion, my chief quartermaster telegraphed last evening a dispatch similar to this to General Meigs, who replied, raising objections on the same score of want of protection to the canal. I do not require suggestions of this kind. I shall be responsible that full protection is afforded it. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Sharpsburg, September 22, 18624.45 p. m. JOHN W. GARRETT, Esq., President Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Baltimore, Md.: I would be very much obliged to you if you would immediatel-y have the railroad bridge over Potomac, at Harpers Ferry, fully repaired. I shall reoccupy the town mentioned to-morrow. 1 beg to assure you that so long as I remain in command, no harm shall again occur to this bridge from the hands of the enemy. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 344 344 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXt. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 22, 1862 4p.m. Major-General BURNSIDE: GENERAL: The commanding general directs you to hold your whole eorps in readiness to move to Harper~s Ferry to-morrow. He also directs you to send that portion of the Fifth Cavalry (regular) now with you to join its regiment. General Pleasonton is directed to furnish you sufficient cavalry (if you have not already enough) to watch the fords in your vicinity. Please report the number and strength of cavalry regiments now with you. The general further directs you to send the boat howitzers at day. light to-morrow morning to Harpers Ferry, to he placed on Loudoun Heights. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 22, 1862. General FITz JOHN PORTER, Commanding P~fth Corps: GENERAL: In reply to your note of this morning, you are authorized to send a flag of truce to the opposite side of the river, to recover the bodies of our dead. The general commanding suggests that it will be well, if there is no appearance of force opposite you, that you send over some cavalry scouts to determine the fact after the flag of truce is dis. posed of and the bodies recovered. I am, very respectfully, R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 22, 18622 p. m. General FITz JOHN PORTER: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you stop the flag of truce and continue your reconnaissance, only exercising due cantion about not being drawn into any ambuscade. You can assure the rebel officer (as you propose) that their wounded are properly attended to, which obviates the necessity of the surgeon coming over; and that Shepherdstown will not be fired into without some absolute necessity. If you can drive the enemys cavalry from Shepherdstown we may be able to take a large number of their wounded. Very respectfully, B. B. MARCY, Chief of StazT. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 22, 18023.10 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: A strong cavalry reconnaissance toward Aldie and Ashbys Gaps is ex- pected to return to-day, or early to-morrow morning. I ordered Stahels division, of Sigels corps, to advance to Centreville last night and earl Page 345 CHAP. XXXI.] CO1~RESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. this morning. As soon as the cavalry returns, I will send another force of cavalry toward the iRapidan. We hear nothiug of any enemy in our front. I am inclined to think that, nuder present circumstances, General Stoneman and Birneys brigade, at ]east, might rejoin their division. It ought to be got together, to enable Stoneman to put it in condition to take the field. As Stoneman is so near you, I prefer to give no orders in the matter without knowing your views. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, S~ptember 22, 18623.20 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Point of Rock8: Your telegram received. The commanding general telegraphs to Gen- eral McClellan respecting your withdrawal, and confirming your views of the importance of bringing your division together. Will let you know decision at earliest possible moment. IILCHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de- Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. BALTIMORE, MD., September 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Brigadier-General Kelley reports that the rebels attacked Back Creek Bridge, but were repulsed; not, however, before they destroyed the bridge by fire. He reports that Colonel Wilkinson informed him that a rebel force was in the vicinity of Sutton, Braxton County, and thinks they are preparing to cross toward Clarksbnrg. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Baltimore, Aid.: GENERAL: The General-in-Chief desires a return in detail of the troops under your command and their position at present. Please iii- form him by telegraph what troops you have in and about Baltimore and at other posts and stations in this vicinity, and on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. BALTIMORE, MD., September 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: In rel)ly to your telegram, inquiring the number of troops in and about Baltimore, the following is sent: New regiments, just sent and in camp at Baltimore, One hundred and fourteenth New York, 1,01 Page 346 346 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CuAr. XXXI. men; One hundred and sixteenth New York, 1,000 men; One hundred and tenth New York, 720 In en; Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, re- cently recruited, 600 men, and Company B, Purnell Legion Cavalry, 95 men. Total, 3,432 men, exclusive of those occupying forts. In camp, guarding roads without the city, from 3 to 6 miles: Liberty road, Thirty- eighth Massachusetts, 1,017 men, and the Seventeenth Indiana Battery, 147 men~ at Gwinns Falls, Frederick road, One hundred and thirty- fifth New York, 976 men; One hundred and twenty-eighth New York, 950 men, and Captain Chalfins battery (two sections), 60 men; at Fort Mdllenry, one company of Second Artillery, 88 men, and six companies Eighteenth Connecticut, 630 men; at Fort Marshall, Fifth New York Artillery, 734 men, and Seventeenth Connecticut, 950 men; at Fort Federal Hill, One hundred and twenty-ninth New York, 1,000 men. I will send you to-morrow a detailed report of the troops under my coin- mand, and where stationed at present. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 23, 1862. (Received 1.10 p. in.) General H. W. HALLECK: The following order, which was sent me from Harpers Ferry, goes to corroborate the impressions I have before received, that the enemy are receiving re-enforceinents: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, On Opequon, near Snzoketoun, September 21, 1862. Colonel MUNFORD, Co~nmanding Cavalry Regiments: COLONEL: Since writing this morning, I hear that there are many captured cooking utensils lying about harpers Ferry. We need them much at Winchester. Please have them carefully collected and sent thither for the use of the troops constantly arriving there. Very respectfully, yours, R. E. LEE, General. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 23, 186211 a. in. (Received 1.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: Dr. Hitchcock aiid Hon. Mr. Cro~ker, of Massachusetts, are here, on the part of the Governor of that State, desirous of removing to Massa- ehusetts the most serious cases of their wounded men. I would request authority to deliver to them such severe cases as will not be fit for duty iii less than thirty days or six weeks, one or more surgeons, to be de- tailed by the medical director of this army, to inspect the cases an(l (lecide as to those to be sent home; none to be sent without the approval and Or(ler of the me(lical director. I would respectfully ask an early reply to this. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 347 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 347 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 23, 186211.45 a. m. (Received 7.20 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: Lient. Col. A. P. Porter, in charge of depot at Monocacy, reports that Major Jones, of General Wools staff, and Major Cross, quartermaster, U. S. Army, have been ordered to examine into the conduct of affairs at that depot, in consequence of charges having been made in Wash- ington of mismanagement and inefficiency on the part of the commis- sary department. it appears to me that when such charges are made against officers under my command, I should be informed of them, and have the opportunity of correcting any evil that may be found to exist, before an examination by officers not serving in this army is ordered. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 23, 18621.30 p. m. Major General MCCLELLAN: I am too unwell this morning to give due attention to your telegrams of yesterday. It is hoped that the expeditions sent out by General Banks will give us more satisfactory information of the positions of the enemy south of the river and east of the Shenandoah. I think the immediate repair of the canal should depend upon what can be learned of the enemys intentions. Governor Peirpoint telegraphs that the enemy is reported at Sutton, Braxto n County, approaching Clarksburg, and asks that six regiments be sent from Pennsylvania to that place. Can you spare any from ilagerstown for that purpose ~i If so, please send them. I have just learned that the Back Creek railroad bridge, 10 miles west of Martinsburg, has been destroyed by rebels. In oper- ating with your troops, pay no regard to department lines. Give me, as soon as possible, your views of future movements. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 23, 186211.05 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Your dispatch of 11.25 a. m. yesterday states that there were eight coinpailies at Cumberland and thirty at Dry Creek. I cannot find Dry Creek on the maps. Is it not New Creek ~l If there are now eight coin- patmies at Cumberlaud and thirty at New Creek, I have the honor to request that they may be placed under my command. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 23, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Camp near Sharpsburg, Md.: New Creek was intended. In your operations you will not regard (lepartinent lines, but look only to the good of the service in using the troops within your reach Page 348 OPE1~AflONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANP PA. [dHAP. ~ZX~t. You are authorized to send to Massachusetts the wounded, as you propose, putting an army surgeon in general charge of them. Nothing is known here of any investigations of charges by Major Cross and Major Jones. It is understood they were sent to assist in re~ulating the transmission of supplies. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 23, 1862. General FITz JOHN PORTER, Commanding Army Corps: GENERAL: A signal dispatch just received from Harpers Ferry says a large column of troops was seen this evening moving out from Charles- town, in the direction of this place; also anothe~ column marching from about 4 miles west of Harpers Ferry in the direction of a ford below here. The commanding general directs that you guard the fords in your front and flanks well, so as to be prepared if these troops attempt to cross. The report that rebel forces are in the position I mentioued to you this evening is confirmed by an order found to-day, signed IR. E. Lee, and from other evidence. I think there is no doubt but Lee and Jackson are in the vicinity of Shepherdstown. Very respectfully, li. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff P. S.Please suspend your reconnaissance till further orders. HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY CORPS, Camp near Sharpsburg [3rd.], September 23, 1862. Brig. Gen. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I inclose, for the inspection and consideration of the corn- manding general, a comparative statement exhibiting the strength of this corps on the 18th instant, the day after the last action, and its strength on the 22d instant, with a column giving the increase in the foam- days intervening. This statement has been sent to division com- mamiders, with orders to use every effort to account for the increase, and report the names of officers and men absent on the 18th without au- thority. The dcvelopment here made of straggling and abandoning their com- mands on the part of officers and men is so startling, and so important in its bearing on the reliance to be placed on the command with which I have been honored, that I deem it due to myself and the general corn- mnamiding to make this communication. How this serious aI)d terrible evil can be cured is a difficult question to solve, inasmuch as the disease seems to pervade the whole body. Nothing, in my judgment, short of taking of life will have any effect, but that some measures are indispensable is rendered evident by the statement now inclosed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. G. MEADE, Brigadier- General, Commdnding Page 349 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 Ilnclosure.J Comparison of field return of officer8 and men present for duty in Hookers corps, & ~ptem ber 15, 1862, with morning report made September 22, 1862. September 18, 1862. September 22, 1862. - Increase. Infantry. Artillery. Total. Infantry. Artillery. Total. 5, a a a a a . a . a 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 0 ~ 080 H 0 ~ a a ~ First (Doubledays) 163 2, 175 10 370 173 2, 545 192 3, 887 11 411 203 8, 798 30 1, 253 DivisiOn. Second (Ricketts) Di- 74 890 2 42 76 932 266 5,748 2 157 268 5, 905 192 4, 973 Vision. Third (Seymours) Di- 116 2, 262 9 251 125 2, 513 185 4, 563 10 307 195 4, 870 70 2, 357 vision. 353 5, 327 21 663 374 5, 990 643 13, 698 23 875 666 14, 573 292 8, 583 REMARKSThirty officers and 700 men of the Sixteenth Maine Regiment, Ricketts division, re- urned since 18th instant from detached service. Respectfully submitted. GEG. G. MEADE, Brigadier-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY CORPS, September 23, 1862. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, Washington, September 23, 186210.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Head quarters Army of the Potomac: Telegram of last night received this morning. It occurs tQ me that at least a part of the confusion caused by the new numbers of the corps arises from the fact that you have got them wrong. Sigels corps is the Eleventh, Banks is the Twelfth, and Hookers (late McDowells) is the First Corps. This is warranted correct, the newspapers to the contrary notwithstanding. Consequently, after some puzzling, I infer from your telegram that Meade commands the First Corps, vice Hooker, wounded, and A. S. Williams commands the Twelfth Corps, vice Mansfield, killed. is this right? To whom was Webers brigade assigned? Is Couchs division independent ~ Does Sturgis command Renos division, and Willcox, Stevens ~ Piatts brigade is here, in Whipples division. Request about General Orders, No. 157, will be attended to. Had a splendid distribution list, answering for both of us, in type when your dispatch came. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 23, 1862-.---1.25 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: It is very important, in view of the long line we have to observe, extend- ing practically from Warreuton to Snickers Gap, that our serviceable CHAP. XXXI. Page 350 350 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MI)., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. cavalry, now amounting only to about 2,700, should be largely increased. We want at least 2,500 horses, which General Meigs says he cannot issue nuder the instructions that he has received from you. lie has 7,500 horses under contract, which will be disposable as soon as they can be received and inspected. I would respectfully request that the Quartermaster-General may be authorized to give us 2,500 of these, to remount our cavalry. J~lease answer immediately. N. P. BANKS, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 23, 18624.15 p.m. Maj. Gen. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The following telegram, just received, is communicated for your in- formation. If you or General Sigel have any cavalry to spare, a suffi- cient force ought to go in advance of the infantry, accompanied by mounted railroad men, to seize and bring off the engines. If cavalry goes out, its commander should bring in two or three citizens, that we may get informatiou from them. IlICllD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-dc- Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. (Copy to General ilaupt.) SEPTEMBER 23, 1862. Major-General BANKS: I am informed that five of our engines have been put by the rebels in good condition, an(l they are now at Warrenton or Warrenton Junc- tion. That the only rebel force at that point were about 100 cavalry. If we send infantry only to recover the property, it will be destroyed before they reach it. A cavalry dash, promptly executed, is required to take possession. The infantry can then hold it until the completion of the bridges will allow the removal of the engines. I have requested that the party who gave the information be sent to you. H. HAUPT. IIEADQUARTE1tS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 23, 18624I5p.m. Brig. Gen. HERMAN HAUPT, Alexandria Depot: Please see telegram to General lleintzelman, just communicated to you. It will, doubtless, be impracticable to attempt to hold the bridges over and beyond Broad Run with infantry, and we have not cavalry to spare, but we will do what we can. By command of Major-General Banks: IIICIII) B. IRWiN, Captain and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS I)EFENSES OF WAShiNGTON. September 23, 18629.35 p. in. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: In consequence of representations made to me by the regimental co Page 351 CHAP. XX .1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 351 inander and surgeon, I ordered the acting medical director to have a thorough tuedical inspection made of the Fourth Ohio Volunteers. The inspecting officer reports that not more than 190 men can safely be sent into the field, and it is said that in the ease of many of these the results are to be apprehended. Under these circumstances, I have concluded to await your further or(lers before putting the regiment on the march. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 23, 18629.35 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: I communicate, for information, the followipg telegram, received at 8 p. in. I had previously ordered General Heintzelman to detach two regi ments of Stahels division, with a section of artillery and such force of cavalry as he may be able to spare, to accompany a construction party ~vhichGen~ral Haupt sends out to-morrow to repair l)ri(1gC5 at Bt~u11 Run and Broad Run, and bring off five locomotives, said, on reliable authority, to be at Bristoe. I have nothing yet from the reconnaissance sent toward Aslibys Gap: ARLINGTON, 23D. General Stahels division i~ now occupying Centreville, between Fairfax Court- House and Centreville. The enemys cavalry pickets were met; they withdrew in the direction of Manassas. He is informed, on good authority, that the Thirteenth Vir- ginia Cavalry occupy Manassas Plains. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN. N. P. BANKS, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 93, 18629.45 p. ni. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Bufords old brigade, and it includes all the cavalry no~v with this command. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 23, 1862. Maj. Gen. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Comdg. Defenses South of the Potomac, Arlington: SIR: The commanding general directs that you order the commander of the division at Centreville to send two regiments, aud, if I)ossible, a section of artillery, to accompany a construction party, which will go out on the railway to-morrow to repair the bridges as far as Bristoc, and endeavor to bring off seven locomotives near that station. The troops can meet the construction party at Union Mills. General Haupt has been requested to inform you at what hour the construction party will be at the rendezvous Page 352 352 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI The commanding general directs that the commander of this detach- ment be instructed to take measures to break up the meeting referred to in the accompanying communication from Colonel Macomb , * and, if practicable, to take the officers concerned. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J{ICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, THIRD CORPS, Seminary, September 23, 1862. Maj. L. HUNT, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: Party, with flag of truce, sent to Bull Run to bury dead have re- turned and report successful mission. They buried all the dead on the field. Were well treated .by the small party of rebel cavalry there. D. B. BJR1~~EY, Brigadier- General. UPTONS HILL, HEADQUARTERS BAYARDS CAVALRY, September 23, 18628 p. m. Major HUNT, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: XV. J. Gaines, having letters from Colonel Kelton, General Hallecks staff, reports that a company of Ninth New York Cavalry have found at Fairfax some 250 stand of arms and 6 boxes fixed ammunition, 3 barrels powder, 150 boxes of cartridges and bayonets, some picks and spades. He also says they ~vi1t be unable to hold the place unless re- enforced, as the citizens are preparing for an attack. He says he heard that the rebels are in force about 5 or 6 miles beyond Centreville, having a1i~ut 40,000 men. Shall I send any force to Fairfax, or take any ac- tion in the matter? I have a scout, on whom I can rely, who told me he was in Dranesville, and 4 miles beyond. Saw no enemy in force, but was chased by 8 mounted men. J. M. DAViES, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 23, 1862. Gov. ANDREW G. CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Have you any volunteer regiments to send to Clarksburg, via Wheel ing; if so, how many? HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HARRISBURG, September 23, 18622.35 p. m. General H. W. HALLECK: I have no volunteer regiments that could be sent. Militia force has been disbanded, and is being returned to their homes. A. G. CURTIN. Not found Page 353 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 353 WASHINGTON, D. C., & pternber 24, 1862. (Sent 2 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN, Near Sharpsburg, Md.: The information brought by the cavalry expedition sent against the enemys train through Ashbys Gap is to the effect that Lees forces are concentrating at Winchester, and that troops are moving from the river to that place. If your information should agree with this, had not re- enforcemeuts for your army better be sent to Point of Rocks or Harpers Ferry? As most of the wagons have been sent to the forces now with you, those here are deficient in transportation, and must move, so as to connect with your supply trains, as soon as possible. It is reported that no re-enforcements have arrived from Richmond; on the contrary, it is believed that an expedition has been organized there against Suf- folk or Yorktown, and General Dix asks to be re-enforced. Sigels corps is the only old one here. It could probably be supplied with transpor- tation. On what point would you prefer it to move? H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC September 24, 186210.30 a. m. (Received 5.15 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: In reply to your telegram of 1.30 p. m. yesterday, I have the honor to state that there are no troops at Hagerstown except the Pennsylvania militia. I thought of sending Franklin there, but the news of Generals Lee and Jackson being opposite here with large forces changed my intentions in this regard, and Franklin is now between here and Will- iamsport. I cannot now dispense with a single regiment from this army until I know more of the intentions of the enemy. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 24, 186211 a. in. (Received 5.30 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The enemys pickets occupy the Virginia side of the river, near Shep- herdstown, and he is still said to be in position with large forces be- tween Shepherdstown and 1~Jartinsburg. It has been raining for several hours. If the storm continues, the river will probably be raised above a fording stage. Should this occur, I propose to concentrate the greater l)ortion of the army in the vicinity of Harpers Ferry, ready to act against the enemy in the direction of Winchester. The pontoon bridge arrived at Harpers Ferry last evening, and is probably laid by this time. A reconnaissance made from Harpers Ferry yesterday found the enemyartillery, infantry, and cavalryin force, drawn up in line near Charlestown. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. 23 R RYOL XIX, PT I Page 354 354 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 24, 18629.45 p. m. (Received 11 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: I have the honor to request that at least twenty new regiments, and, if possible, a greater number, be sent to me at once, to be incorporated with the old troops of this army. From Banks morning report of the 20th instant, I think twenty regiments, at least, can be spared. I would be glad to have more than double that number with the least possible delay. They can be made efficient much more quickly by brigading them with old troops than in any other manner. If there are any Michigan, Wisconsin, or Indiana troops, I would be particularly grati- fied to receive them. They should be sent via Sandy Hook, and ordered to report directly to these headquarters, where they will be immediately assigned. 1 would be glad if you would direct General Kelley to report to me in detail the number and position of his troops, and all he knows about the movements of the enemy in his front. I am so intimately acquainted with Western Virginia that I am sure that I can be of ben- efit. Please inform me where General Kelleys headquarters are, and what is the extent of his command. I would be glad to render him any assistance in my power. In the present situation of affairs there should be at least direct co-operation on the part of the commander in West Yfrginia and myself. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Sharpsburg, September 24, 186211 p. m. (Received 11.10 p. in.) His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: Many weeks ago I ~ubmitted, through the proper channel, a long list of brevets, recommended for officers of the Regular Army for gallant service upon many fields of battle. I regret to say that none of these have been acted upon. Many, perhaps the most, of these officers have declined promotion in the volunteer service, feeling that they could render better service with their own commands. This is especially the case with regard to the most prominent officers of the artillery, who have persistently declined promotion in other corps, feeling that they could render better service to their country in their own. There are many captains and lieutenants in the artillery who for this reason have declined colonelcies in the volunteer service. The same may be said of officers in other branches of the service. I respectfully and earnestly urge upon you a prompt consideration of the claims of these gentlemen, and I trust that you will not fail to confer upon them the addition of rank which I have asked for them. In addition to the rewards which I have already asked, I shall have other lists to submit, but I beg you will now act immediately upon those I have already submitted. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 24, 186210 p. in. (Received 12 midnight.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: It is necessary to build a permanent double-track bridge over th Page 355 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 355 Potomac at Harpers Ferry; also a wagon bridge over Shenandoah at the same place, on the piers now standing. The Potomac bridge must prob- ably be built on crib-piers, filled with stone, and will be about 900 feet in length; the Shenandoah bridge about 400 feet long. I have to re- quest that Col. D. C. McCallum may be placed in charge of this work, and instructed to report to me at Harpers Ferry without delay. He should take steps before leaving Washington to organize the gangs of workmen, and to procure all the material possible. I cannot too strongly urge the importance of expedition in this matter. Until this or the railroad bridge is finished, it is scarcely possible to advance from Har- pers Ferry, in force, and as that is clearly our true line of operations, I need not urge upon you the necessity of completing our communications there. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 24, 1862. General N. P. BANKS, Commanding Defenses of Washington, D. C.: In reply to your dispatch of the 22d, I should not think it advisable to withdraw Stoneman from his present position until we are able to learn something more of the designs and movements of the enem now in our front. I will keep you advised. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIvISIoN, September 24, 1862Il a. m. Maj. Gen. RiTz JOHN PORTER, Commanding Fifth Corps: GENERAL: By direction of General McClellan, I am about to throw a squadron of cavalry across the river at the ford near Shepherdstown. I am instructed to notify you of the same. The party will be at the ford within an hour, and a small detachment will first cross over to feel the way. I am, general, very respectfully, A. PLEASONTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Cavalry Division. WASHINGTON, September 24, 1862. Major-General BANKS, Commanding: GENERAL: Some troops must be sent to Western Yirginia, and if General Milroys brigade is available for that duty, you will have it in readiness to move by railroad. If you suggest any other, please name it. Yours, truly, H. W. HALLECK, Genera lin- Chie Page 356 356 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, Near Sharpsburg, Md., September 24, 18629 p. m. General N. P. BANKS: If the Eighteenth Maine Regiment can be spared from the Defenses of Washington, the commanding general desires that you will please order it to report to Maj. Geii. F. J. Porter, at this place. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 24, 186210 p. m. (Received 11.05 p. in.) Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKS: Will you please have two companies of heavy artillery sent to Har- pers Ferry at once? They will be required to man the heavy guns on Maryland Heights. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 24, 18627 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: The following telegrams are communicated for your information .~ The commanding general directs that you have the force already sent out sufficiently augmented to effect the object. The general would prefer to have a considerable force of cavalry added to the infantry you send under this order, but leaves the strength and composition of the force to be sent entirely to your discretion. Please report your action. By command: RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 24, 186211. p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Arlington: Send forward the rest of Sigels corps, as you suggest. Great caution must be observed to prevent surprise. Let the cavalry be kept well to the front and on the alert. Instruct General Sigel to report frequently the state of affairs. By command of Major-General Banks: RICHD 1~. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de- Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS MARYLAND BRIGADE, Williarnsport, [Mid.], September 24, 1862. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of yesterday, directed to me at Hagerstown, desiring me to send by the bearer a return of my command, and also to inform you whether there were at Hagerstown or vicinity other than those subject to my orders. * Not identified Page 357 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. / 357 In reply, I beg leave to report that, upon my arrival at ilagerstown, on the night of the 19th instant, I was ordered by Brigadier. General Rey- nolds, U. S. Volunteers, in command of Pennsylvania militia, to move out on the Williamsport road with my brigade, and report to him. I complied with the order, and then reported my arrival to your head- quarters, from which I received.orders to join General Couchs division, at Williamsport. The enemy was at this time (Saturday, the 20th in- stant) in the town, and General Reynolds directed me to remain in line of battle between Hagerstown and Williamsport. On Sunday, the 21st, learning that a portion of Major-General Franklins army corps were in this town, I sent in and reported to Major-General Franklin, from whom I received orders to march here to relieve Colonel Rushs command, to hold and occupy the town, and to defend the ford over the Potomac. I was placed in command here by his orders, and have endeavored to obey his instructions. Several changes have been made in the dispo- sition and number of the troops here since yesterday, and my force now consists, first, of several battalions of my own brigade, say, 1,000 men; second, eight guns Maryland battery, Company A, Captain Wolcott, 120 men; third, seven companies of the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, Colonel Voss commanding, 350 men; fourth, two independent companies Mary- land cavalry, commanded by Captains Russell and Grafflin, 100 men. Under instructions from Major-General Franklin, received during last iiight, I have ordered a regiment of infantry to Clear Spring, 9 miles from here, on the road to Hancock; a section of artillery and a squadron of cavalry to Dam No. 5, distant 5 or 6 miles up the river; a squadron of cavalry to Hancock, to watch the fords from there down to Dam No. 5, and the balance of the cavalry I am using, to the best of my judg- ment., in guarding the fords near to and the i-oads leading to the town. One battalion of my infantry is supporting the battery posted on the heights, to the left of~he town, and the balance doing duty in and about the town. I have no troops whatever in Hagerstown, except detachments which I left there to guard my subsistence, ammunition, and camp and gar- rison equipage, all of which I was forced to leave there when I marched, as I have not one single wagon, no transportation whatever having been ftirnished me, except that on yesterday I borrowed a few wagons to bring down some subsistence. I am now hard at work endeavoring to subsist my command. After receiving your note of yesterday, I immediately ordered Colonel Voss to send a squadron of his cavalry to Hagerstown, but I have learned since that the Eighth New York Cavalry were there, which was detached or ordered away from here on yesterday, and countermanded the order. I will forward you a proper return of my brigade as soon as I can make it out. I have given you a rough aggregate, which, I hope, may answer at present. One full regiment of my brigade (the Sixth Maryland) and four pieces of artillery, Captain Alexanders battery, attached to my command, I learn are at the Monocacy Junction, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, where they have been detained, as I understand, by orders from Major-General Wool. It would add materially to the strength and morale of my bri- gade to have them with me. All is comparatively quiet here and above. A strong picket of the enemy is posted immediately opposite the town, on the river bank at the ford. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN R. KENLY, Brigadier- General Vols., Comdg. at Williamsport Page 358 358 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 25, 186210 a. m. (Received 3 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: My scouts, which have been out yesterday and this morning, report the enemy in force behind Shepherdstown, and every person who comes across the Potomac gives the same account of the position of the rebels in large force npon the Opequon Creek, some 3 miles above its mouth. A young man who arrived here this morning from Winchester states that there were but few troops in the vicinity of that place on Monday. The young man saw no troops moving to or from Winchester. I am keeping out my scouts in every direction. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 25, 186211.30 a. m. (Received 3 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: In view of operating from Harpers Ferry, or from any point this side, I would prefer that Sigels corps shouild move to a point on the Fred- erick and Knoxville turnpike, to encamp as near Knoxville as the ground will permit. This is the first good camping place below Harpers Ferry, and the troops can be supplied by rail. The pontoon bridge is laid at Harpers Ferry. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 25, 18628.30 p. m. (Received 10.15.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Nothing new since my dispatch of this morning, except that the wife of a Confederate officer, who arrived in Sharpsburg to-day from Virginia, told her fathera Union manthat the entire rebel army which was left from the battle of the 17th instant was still opposite us, awaiting re- enforcements from Gordonsville; that the rebels expected to give us another battle between here and Winchester, and were anxious for us to cross the river. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 25, 1813210.35 a. m. Brigadier-General STONEMAN, Poole8ville, Md.: The following telegram was received from General McClellan, and is furnished for your information: HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, September 24, 1862. General N. P. BAxKS: In reply to your dispatch of the 22d, I should not think it advisable to withdraw Stoneman from his present position until we are ablo to learn something more of the designs and movements of the enemy now in our front. I will keep you advised. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. R.ICHD B. IRWIN, Captain and Aide-dc-Camp Page 359 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 359 IIEADQLTARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 25, 186212 m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, PoolesviUe: The following is communicated for your information: HEADQUARTERS, Arlington, September 25, 15626.45 a. m. Captain IRWIN, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General: Captain Biugham, sent from General Sigels headquarters to capture a lieutenant and 14 men, on the Leesburg turnpike, patrolled carefully the road as far as Goose Creek without finding any trace of the enemy or their pickets. They encamped for the night, and the next morning (yesterday) charged into and through the town of Leesburg, examining the hospital, & c., but found no one except the sick and their attendants. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Major-General. iRLCHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. (Same to General McClellan.) HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 25, 186212.40 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Orders will be at once issued to send the two companies of heavy artillery to Harpers Ferry. I do not think the Eighteenth Maine can well be spared at present, as Milroys brigade has just been detached for service in Western Virginia, and four new regiments are to go to Fort Monroe, both nuder orders received yesterday from the General- in.Chief. The new troops come in very slowly indeed. To cover the expedition to Bristoe to capture the engines, I have this morning ad. vanced the remainder of Sigels corps to Fairfax Court-House, to fall back to its former position when the expedition returns. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 26, 1862. (Sent 1.40 p. in.) Major-General MCCLELLAN: General Kelleys headquarters were, at last accounts, at Cumberland. General Wool was directed to instruct him to obey your orders for the purpose of co-operation, without regard to department lines. Before more troops are moved from here into the field, we ought to have a full understanding in regard to your future operations. As I now under- stand, you propose to cross the Potomac at or above Harpers Ferry, and move up the valley. Will not this line again expose Washington, and compel us to keep a large force here 0? The enemy is repairing bridges on the IRapidan and Happahannock, preparatory to throwing a force on Washington, if it should not be properly protected. Cannot your army move, so as to cover Washington, by keeping between it and the enemy 0? I particularly wish your views on this subject. Very fe Page 360 360 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXI. troops have arrived within the last ten days. A part of Sigels corps has been sent to Western Virginia, and I think ten new regiments to General Dix. As soon as yonr plans are fully agreed on, other troops will be sent to you. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief WASHINGTON, D. (3., September 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: Your telegram in relation to reconstructing bridges at Harpers Ferry was received yesterday. As I telegraphed to you this morning, the War Department wishes to be informed more definitely of your plans before authorizing the expenditure of large sums of money for rebuilding bridges on the Potomac. Of course, your movements must depend in a measure upon the position and movements of the enemy; nevertheless they will be subordinate to a general plan. With. out knowing your plan and your views on this subject, I cannot answer the questions which are asked me by the Government. I had hoped that, instead of crossing at Harpers Ferry (unless in the pursuit of a beaten army), you would be able to cross lower down the Potomac, so as to cover Washington by your line of operations, and thus avoid the necessity of keeping a large force here. In your present position the enemy threatens both your army and the capital. Will the crossing of your forces at Harpers Ferry relieve the latter 0? It will if the enemy is at Martinsburg; but will it if his main force falls back on Winches- ter I Moreover, his repairing the bridges over the Rapidan and Rap- pahannock would seem to indicate an attempt to reoccupy Manassas, or at least to threaten Washington from that direction. The number of troops to be left here will depend upon the amount of protection to be afforded by your army in the field. You ask for Sigels corps and twenty new regiments to be sent to Harpers Ferry, and also additional old troops. If your movements are to be such as to cover Washington, this number, and perhaps, in a few days, more, can be sent to you; but, if otherwise, we should be careful not to weaken this point too much, especially while the troops here are so very raw. It seems to me that Washington is the real base of operations, and that it should not under any circumnsta:mces be cxpose(l. Please state your plans as fully as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALL ECK General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 26, 186210.30 p. m. (Received 12 midnight.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: I have just returned from Maryland Heights, and have determined to fortify them, as well as the heights on the opposite side of the river, in order to avoid a similar catastrophe to the one which happened to Colo- nel Miles. In view of this, I shall be glad to have contrabands sent to Harpers Ferry from Washington to perform a portion of the necessar Page 361 CHir. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 361 labor, if there are any disposable. The position of the enemy opposite us seems to remain as it was at the date of my last dispatch, except that he seems to have extended his pickets up the Potomac, above Williamsport. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HARPERs FERRY, 8eptemb~er 26, 1862. General MARCY, Chief of Staff: Just received the following: I arrived at this point on the Charlestown road. Two miles from Charlestown I find the enemys pickets scattered through the country. I have driven them before me thus far. My advance guard report artillery in front of Charlestown, and the scout I sent out on my right from this point reports a large body of the enemyinfantry, cavalry, and artilleryabout 1 mile. I dont deem it prudent to advance farther with my command, and shall fall back to within about l~ miles of your camp. Please sendi this on to General Pleasonton. C. J. WHITING, Major, Second Cavalry. SUMNER, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 26, 1862. Major-General WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: Major-General McClellan has been directed, while operating on the Upper Potomac, to use any troops in his vicinity without regard to de- partment lines. Please instruct General Kelley to communicate with General McClellan, and to obey such orders as he may give him. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, September 26, 1862[9.30]. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: The following telegram has just been received from Colo- nel Campbell, Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, dated Sir Johns Run: I cannot longer hold my position on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, unless re- enforced. The rebels are advancing up the road. They are in strong force at Hedgesville and North Mountain. My regiments are the only Union troops between North Mountain and South Branch of the Potomac. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Sharpsburg, Md., September 26, 186211 a. m. (Received 12.20 p. in.) General JOHN E. WooL, Commanding, Baltimore: Your dispatch of 9.30 a. in. received. In case Colonel Campbell is threatened by a large force at Sir Johns Run, I would suggest that h Page 362 362 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA, MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XX~. be directed to fall back on Hancock or Cuinberlaud. At Cumberland General Kelley has three regiments of infantry and a battery. Besides this, Colonel NlcReynolds, at 4 p. m. yesterday, arrived there with two regiments of cavalry and a horse battery, and will proceed toward Romney. GEO. B. McCLELLAN. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY Cones, Col. J. M. CAMPBELL, Baltimore, September 26, 1862. P~fty-fourth Pennsylvania 7ols., Sir Johns Run, Va.: COLONEL: Your dispatch is received. If threatened by a large force, you will fall back on Cumberland. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, 1862. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Washington, September ~6 Cincinnati, Ohio: Brigadier-General Milroy has, by direction of the President, been sent with his brigade to Point Pleasant. He will be (lirected to report to you by letter. At present General McClellan is authorized to use the troops in Western Virginia within his reach without regard to lines of department. H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., Major-General MCCLELLAN, September27, 18621.15 p. m. Headquarters Army of the Potomac: Make requisition for contrabands on Brigadier-General Wadsworth, military governor of Washington, who will be directed to send them as you may require. Please send report of your recent battles as soon as possible. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 27, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: Your dispatch of 1.15 p. m. to-day is just received, upon my return from Harpers Ferry. I have made a requisition for 2,000 contrabands on Brig. adler-General Wadsworth, as directed. My preliminary report of the re- cent battles is very nearly ready; the delay has been with the corps coin- manders, who have not all yet furnished the number of killed, wounded, and missing in those actions in their respective commands, nor the num- ber of cannon, colors, and prisoners taken by them. Not a day, hardly an honi, has elapsed since the recent battles that I have not called again and again for these reports, and been again and again assured that they would be promptly furnished. The corps coinnianders have encountere Page 363 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 363 the same delays and disappointments in getting prompt and accurate re- turns from their subordinates. I have been unwilling to report approxi- mately the number of prisoners, cannon, and colors captured, fearing lest, when the returns were made, such report might prove an exagger- ated one. I trust to be able to furnish you a correct report very speedily GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HAGERSTOWN, MD., September 27, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: There is no change of the position of the enemy about Martinsburg. The railroad bridge across the Opequon, 2 miles east from Martinsburg, was fired yesterday. The railroad bridge over Back Creek has been destroyed. They have a heavy picket force at Cherry Run, on the Poto- mac. No force of the enemy this side of Hancock, on the Maryland side. W. W. ROWLEY, Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. [SEPTEMBER 27, 1862.] Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: I communicate the following, for your information: HEADQUARThRS ELEVENTH CoRPs, Fairfax Court-Biou8e, September 27, 18628 p. ni. (Received 10.20 p. in.) Major-General BANKS, Commanding Defenses at Washington: My scouts report that there is no force of the rebels either at Aldie or Thoroughfare Gap or Gainesville, with the exception of small cavalry pickets; the scouts having entered these places by driving in the enemys pickets. It is evident that the enemy has sent all his available forces toward Paris or Ashbys Gap. All the sick, wounded, and stragglers are sent to Culpeper. The arms reported to be at Gainesville have been removed from there five days ago in three railroad cars toward Front Royal. Warrenton is reported to be occupied by 2,000 men, many of them sick and wounded. The scouts sent to Warrenton and Warrenton Junction have not returned. Shall send report when they return. General Stahel, with the 600 cavalry sent to me, has left Centreville this morning for Brentsville, and another cavalry force has gone to Gainesville. Colonel McLean has not sent a report since he left Bristoe. I will have one to-morrow morning. F. SIGEL, Major-General. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 27, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Baltimore, Md.: If there is no regiment guarding railroads that can be spared, ask Governor Curtin for a regiment of volunteers. It was supposed that, under existing circumstances, the guards on the railroads could be dimin- ished with safety. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 364 364 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXL WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 27 186~ (tltimorC, Md.: Maj. Gen. JoHN E WOOL B The Secretary of War directs that you send a regiment of volunteers to Wilmington, to guard powder-mills, in place of Colonel Eakins regi- men t of Pennsylvania militia. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chkf. BALTIMORE, September 27, 18629.25 a. m. General MCCLELLAN, Sharpsburg, Md.: Last evening I ordered Brigadier-General Kelley, at Cumberland, to report to you for orders, and Colonel Campbell to fall back on Cumber- land, if he should be attacked by a large force. He, of course, is sub- ject to your orders. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General; Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 28, 18621 p. m. (Received 4.50 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK: Heavy lines of dust were seen last evening, extending from Martins- burg toward Winchester, along the turnpike. Whether this was caused by marching troops or the passage of supply trains I have not as yet been able to determine. I shall probably be able to get more informa- tion upon the subject today. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 28, 186210.30 p. m. (Received 11.25 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Several reports have been made to me this evening that the main rebel army is retreating from the vicinity of Martin sburg in the direction of Winchester. I shall send out strong reconnaissance in the morning to test the truth of these reports. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. FAIRVIEW, MD., Via Chambersburg, Pa., September 28, 18626 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Sharpsburg, Md.: The enemy has fallen back from Martinsburg, toward Winchester, about 10 miles. Their camp is near Bunker Hill and Darkesville. W. W. ROWLEY, Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer Page 365 CHAP. XXXI. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 365 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 28, 18G2. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, U. S. Army: GENERAL: The reduced condition of the old regiments, and the futility of dependence upon the recruiting service for the replenishing of their rai~ks, l)oints to the necessity of earnest endeavor to collect all the ab- sent officers an(l men belonging to these organizations. I am aware that this subject has already occupied the attention of the War Depart- ment; but lam now more especially alluding to the class of absentees employed on extra duty in the hospital and other staff departments of the Army, who are the most valuable of the absentees (for many absent men ~re runaways), an(l who can be sent to their regiments now with- out difficulty, inasmuch as their places can be readily supplied from new troops. 1 am now getting together stragglers and convalescents from hospitals, and if I could get extra-duty men also, a very considerable addition would be made to the diminished ranks of the old regiments. In order to carry this into effect, I respectfully suggest that an order be issued fixing a time, say the 15th of October, when all hospital at. tendants and other extra-duty men shall be relieved and sent to the convalescent camp at Alexandria, in depot, from which they can be drawn and sent to their regiments as soon as a sufficient number have accumulated to justify the sending for them. The order should prohibit any officer retaining a soldier of the old regiments without the consent of the War Department or of the commander of the army or depart- ment to which the soldier belongs. I suggest that every hospital and staff office be inspected within the mouth of October, by, if necessary, scores of officers detailed for the purpose, to ferret out the old soldiers hidden away therein. Such an inspection would produce more fruit in one week than the recruiting service can in three months. And, finally, I suggest to the XVar Department the employment of the deputy provost-marshals throughout the North, more particularly in the arrest of deserters. Convalescent soldiers leave hospitals, and have done so for the past year, and return home habitually. It is the ex- perience of every army commander that not more than a tenth of the soldiers who are left behind sick ever rejoin. A regiment here, which has been employed pretty much during the whole year as depot guard, has had in the course of the year some 500 sick sent to hospitals in the rear. Of these it has received back some 15 or 20. The stragglers, too, are numerous in every division of the army; many of these desert. The States of the North are flooded with deserters, absentees, & c. One corps of this army has 13,000 and odd men present and 15,000 and odd absent; of this 15,000, 8,000 probably are at work at home, deserters. They can be secured and returned, and I beg that the fullest exercise of the power of the Government may be devoted, if necessary, to the accomplishment of this end. It will have the happiest result in swelling the ranks of the old regiments, and in ~)reventing their future reduc- tion. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. P. S.Since writing the above, General Orders, No. 140, of September 2-1,1862, has come to my notice. The Department has, therefore, an- ticipated my suggestions with regard to the employment of deputy provost-marshals Page 366 366 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 28, 186210 p. in. General E. V. SUMNER, Gommanding harpers Ferry: Reports from several sources go to show that the rebel army is re- treating from the vicinity of Martinsburg. To get reliable information upon this subject, the commanding general desires you to send out a cavalry reconnaissance, as far as it can safely be done, toward Charles- town to-morrow morning, to ascertain, if practicable, whether the enemy is moving toward Winchester. Please report the result on the return of the party. B. B. MARCY, Chief of & aff HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, September 28, 1862. Major-General BANKS, 61ommanding, & e.: GENERAL: The General-in-Chief directs that twenty regiments of new troops be sent by railroad to Frederick, to report to Major-General McClellan, commanding. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 28, 1862. General WADSWORTH: GENERAL: The Secretary of War directs that you fill, as far as pos- sible, the requisitions of Major-General McClellan for negro laborers to work on intrenchinents, & c., at Harpers Ferry. Very respectfully, H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 29, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: If the regiments of new troops ordered to Frederick to report to you ought to go direct to Harpers Ferry or elsewhere, please telegraph to General Banks. Why not march these troops? H. W. HALLECK, General.in. Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 29, 186210 p. ni. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: A cavalry reconnaissance was made to-day to Shepherdstown and about 5 miles beyond, in the direction of Martinsburg. The enemy Page 367 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 367 pickets were driven from Shepherdstown and along the road, until a considerable force of infantry and artillery were encountered in position. The reconnoitering party found the rebel wounded occupying many of the houses in Shepherdstown and along the road, and about 600 are re- ported as having been paroled during the day. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 266. f Camp near Sharpsburg, September 29, 1862. * * * * * * * VIII. Brig. Gen. J. F. Reynolds, having joined this army from de- tached service, is assigne(l temporarily to the command of the First Army Corps. * * * * * * * XI. The chief of cavalry will assign to each army corps for duty, as orderlies and messengers, one company of cavalry, and as many addi- tional companies as there are divisions in the corps. Orderlies for bri- gade commanders will be taken from the cavalry assigned to the corps. It is to be distinctly understood that this assignment is to be a perma- nent one, and that no exchange will be allowed. All the rest of the cavalry of this army will be formed into brigades, and held in hand for service when it may be required. When a part of the cavalry is sent for special service in front of a corps, its operations will be conducted by the cavalry officer in charge, after consultation with the corps com- mander. It shall be the duty of this cavalry officer to keep the corps eommander constantly advised of his own movements, as well as of those of the enemy, and to see that no unreliable information is for- warded. After performing such special duty, the commander of the de- tachment will report to the chief of cavalry for instructions. Cavalry detached for temporary duty with an army corps will receive special instructions from these headquarters for its observance while so em- ployed. XII. The batteries of horse artillery are placed under the orders of the chief of cavalry, who will, from time to time, make such assign- ments of them to the cavalry brigades as may, in his judgment, seem best for the service. * * * * * * * XIV. Brig. Gen. James Nagle will report for duty to Maj. Gen. A. E. Buruside, commanding Ninth Corps. By command of Major-General McClellan: [S. WILLIAMS,] Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. FIRST CORPS, ARMY OF POTOMAC, No. 7. f Camp near Sha.rpsburg, September 29, 1862. I. In conformity with Special Orders, No. 266, from lleadquarter~ Army of the Potomac, the undersigned assumes temporary command. of the First Corps of the Army of the Potomac. Brig. Gen. George G- Meade will reassume the command of the Third Division. IL The following-named officers are announced as the staff of th Page 368 368 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. XXXI. commanding general: Lient. Charles B. Lamborn, aide-de-cainp and act- ing assistant adjutant-general; Lient. William Riddle,, aide de-camp; Capt. Robert H. Lamborn, acting aide-de-camp; Col. 0. S. Wainwright, chief of artillery; Lieut. Col. J. M. San(lerson chief of commissary de- l)artment; Capt. F. Lowry, chief of quartermasters department; Surg. P. Pineo, c.hief of medical department. JOHN F. REYNOLDS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Corps. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 29, 1862. Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKs, Washington, D. C.: Please inform me how many new regiments are now disposable for this army, and whether wagons can be had for the transportation of the supplies, & c., if they march to Harpers Ferry. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, lllajor. General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, September 29, 18621.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters Army of the Potomac: The twenty regiments which I am now sending you, will leave, ex- clusive of the permanent garrisons, but three regiments on the lines of defense north of the Potomac and ope which has just arrived under Casey. General Casey is under orders from General Halleck to send two more regiments to Fort Monroe. These four regiments are the only troops disposable north of the Potomac without removing the garrisons. The troops on the other side consist of the Third and Eleventh Corps, Whipples division, and the cavalry, besides the permanent garrisons of the norks. Eight thousand of the troops to go to Frederick will get off to-day; all, I am informed, by to-morrow night. They are to go by railway to Frederick. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON September 29, 1862. Regiments ordered to Frederick, under command of Brig. Gen. Henry S. Brigg8, U~ S. Army. Regiments. Co!onels. Strength. To whom assigned.5 20th Connecticut Samuel Ross 1 017 Williams. 21st Connecticut Arthur H. Dutton I 960 Burnside. isth Maine Frederick D. Sewall ~:: 916 Sumner. 57th Massachusetts Oliver Edwards I 971 Couch. 24th Michigan I Henry A. Mom-row 898 Reynolds. 10th New Rampshire Michael T. Donohoo 060 Bnrnside. 11th New Hampshire Walter Harriman -- 1, 030 Burnaide. 15th New Jersey Samuel Fowler 585 Fianklin. 21st New Jersey I Gilham Fall Houten 895 Franklin. * But see Special Orders, No. 30, Headquarters Army of the Potomac, September 30, lS6i~ Page 369 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.--UNION. 369 Regiments ordered to Frederick, 4~c.Continued. Regiments. Colonels. Strength. To whom assigned.5 23d NewJersey John S. Cox 1,013 Franklin. 26th New Jersey .. Andrew J. Morrison 996 Franklin. 123d New York Archibald L. McDougall. . 983 Williams. 137th New York (David Ireland] 946 Williams. 140th New York... - Louis Ernstt . 947 Williams. 145th New York 886 Williams. 149th New York. John M. Strong t 904 Williams. 121st Pennsylvania Chapman Biddle 770 Reynolds. 136th Pennsylvania Thomas M. Bayne 859 :Reynolds. i42d Pennsylvania Robert P. Cniumins 868 Reynolds. 7th Rhode Island Zenas R. Bliss 963 Burnaide. Total 18,667 RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. SHARPSBURG, September 29, 1862, Major.General BAYIKS, Washington, D. C.: Telegram received. From best information in my possession, enemy still in force between Winchester and Martinsburg; chiefly near latter. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 29, 1862. General KELLEY, Commanding, Cumbertand: Colonel MclReynolds reports that you gave him orders to fall back to New Creek, when he had an important service which he was about per- forming. If you merely intended this as a measure of safety to Colonel McReynolds command, in view of the approach of a large force of the enemy, it was all right; but otherwise the commanding general does not wish you to exercise any control over the movements of Colonel McRey- nolds, as he has a specific duty to perform. You will please report to these headquarters all movements of the enemy, and everything else of importance that occurs within the limits of your command. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. NEW CREEX, VA., September 29, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Harpers Ferry, Va.: I have been directed, by telegram from Major-General Wool, to com- municate with you, and obey any orders you may be pleased to give. I hope to be pardoned for saying that I am exceedingly gratified at being again subject to your immediate orders, and only regret my health is such as to prevent my rendering you the official service that I could wish. It is rumored that a large cavalry and artillery force left * Bat see Special Orders, No. 30, Headquarters Army of the Potomac, September 30, 1862. Lieutenant-colonel. 24 R RYOL XIX, PT I Page 370 370 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL Martinsburg on Saturday, at 2 p. in., in direction of Romney; am not prepared to say that this is reliable. I am also advised this morning that the enemy is moving from the Kanawha toward Clarksburg, the front of their column, 3,000 strong, occupying Sutton. it is evidently the object of the Confederate authorities to destroy the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and reoccupy Western Virginia. May I suggest that, if con- sistent with your plans, Cumberland, Md., and this point be strengthened by troops thrown from WiLliamsport, as I will most probably be coin- pelled to concentrate the greater portion of my force at Clarksburg, to repel General Loring, who is moving from the Kanawha ~ Colonel McReynolds First New York Cavalry, with portions of two regiments of cavalry, arrived here Saturday, having been ordered here on a reconnaissance by General Pleasonton. If you can spare them, I would be pleased to have them remain for a time, as I greatly need a cavalry force. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier.General. NEW CREEK, VA., September 29, 1862. Colonel WHIPPLE, Baltimore, Md.: I am advised that a large cavalry and artillery force left Martinsbu.rg on Saturday, in the direction of iRomney. Whether this is reliable or not, I am not prepared to say. After receiving this information, how. ever, I deemed it prudent to order back an expedition, which started to drive out Imboden, who is said to be a few miles above Moorefield, with some 700 or 800 guerrillas. I received, this morning, information from Colonel Harris, Tenth Vir. ginia, at Bulltown, that the enemy is moving across from Kanawha toward Clarksburg, and the head of the column had reached Sutton, Braxton County, 3,000 strong. I think it is evident from the message of Governor Letcher and the recent action of Confederate leaders, that their object is to totally destroy the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and to recapture Western Virginia. To prevent the accomplishment of this l)urpose, additional troops should be sent into Western Virginia at once. May I respectfully suggest that, to insure success in driving the rebels out of Western Virginia, concert of action between this and the Kanawha district is absolutely necessary I B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, September 29, 1862. General E. V. SUMNER, Harpers Perry: The commanding general desires that you will at once cause the country about Harpers Ferry, on both sides of the river, to be thor- oughly scoured by parties of cavalry, for the purpose of arresting all marauders and stragglers that may be found on the highway, in the fields, in the woods, or in or about the dwellings of the inhabitants. It is feared that many of our men have absented themselves from their regiments, and are actually living upon the people of the country. All marauders and stragglers that your l)arties may find, the com- manding general wishes you to have promptly brought to trial. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 371 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 371 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 30, [1862]10.45 p. m. General E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Harpers Ferry: General Stoneman reports from Poolesville this afternoon that a man from Hamilton, Va., informed him that last night there passed down from Winchester to Leesburg, on the turnpike, one regiment of cavalry and four pieces of artillery. He is informed that to-day and to-morrow are the days set for collecting conscripts in Loudoun County. In view of this, the general commanding desires you to send out toward Leesburg to-morrow morning a brigade of infantry, with a battery of artillery, and sufficient cavalry to scout the roads well in front and on the right flank as they advance, and if the rebel force remains at Leesburg, to attack it, and capture or drive it away. The cavalry should be kept sufficiently far out on the right flank to give notice of the approach of any large force from the direction of Winchester, to give time for our troops to fall back to Harpers Ferry, or to cross the river below, if necessary. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, September 30, 186210 a. m. (Received 12.15 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General.in.Chief: From all the information I can obtain, I am satisfied that the mass of the rebel army has left Martinsburg and marched forWinchester, where. it is said, they will make a stand and await our approach. They have been forcing every man they could find, capable of bearing arms, into their ranks. They have compelled the farmers to bring their grain to their army, and they have thereby caused great dissatisfaction among the people of Northern Virginia. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 30, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Information received to-day confirms the report that the enemy is massing a strong force at Culpeper. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. NEAR SHARPSBURG, September 30, 1862. General MEIGS: There are very competent quartermasters at Harpers Ferry, as well as at Frederick and Hagerstown. The roads so far have not forwarded supplies as promptly as required, particularly the Cumberland Valley Railroad, which disappointed us greatly. Doubtless they will improve. There are provost-marshals at the railroad stations to see that no im- proper persons go on the cars. it is not the business of our quarter- masters. I have requested that the provost-marshals be made to per form their duty. RUFUS INGALLS, Brigadier-General, Chief Quartermaste Page 372 372 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAr. XXXI. 0 [Indorsement.] OCTOBER 2, 1862. Send copy to Mr. Garrett, saying that a telegram from William Pre~- cott Smith, desiring a quartermaster to be stationed at Sandy Hook, was referred to General Ingalls, chief quartermaster of the Army of the Potomac, for such action as may be proper. The Quartermaster-General cannot supply captains of the Quarter. masters Department for every post where they might be desirable. M. C. MEIGS. HEADQUARTERS RAILROAD DISTRICT, New Creek, Va., September 30, 1862. Col. H. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff, Bid qrs. Army of Potomac, Harpers Ferry, Va.: COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your tele- grani of to~day,* and fearing that the telegram of Colonel MeReynolds may have caused the commanding general to misapprehend my action, 1 respectfully ask to submit the following statement of facts: I certainly did not expect or desire to assume command of Colonel McReynolds forces without orders. I have been anxious to attack and rout Colonel Imboden, who was encamped near Moorefield, Hardy County, with some 700 or 800 mounted Partisan Rangers; but having only three companies of cavalry at my command, and it being impracti- cable to operate with infantry, my force was too small to accomplish it. It was snggested to Colonel McReynolds that, if it did not conflict with his orders, he should go up to Mooretield and rout Imboden, and that, to assist him, I would furnish him with my three companies of cavalry and one section of a battery; to which proposition he acceded. It was then arranged that Colonel McReynolds should move from Cumberland, Md., one of my detachments from New Creek, and one from Green Spring, each detachment to arrive at the junction of the Moorefield and Romney road at 4 oclock on Saturday, p. in., 27th, and the body to move from there when it would become dark, and attack enemy at daylight Sun. day morning. Colonel MeReynolds, however, did not arrive with his advance until 11 oclock at night, and consequently it was impossible for the expedition to arrive at Moorefield at the designated time. Mes. sengers were sent back advising me that Colonel MeReynolds had de- termined to wait until Sunday evening before moving forward; but in the mean time I had received a telegram advising me of the movement of the enemy from Martinsburg, with a large force of cavalry and artil- lery, toward Romney, and being satisfied that the rebels, under Colonel Imboden, were fnlly advised in regard to our approaching force, I (lis- patched, by messenger, the order, a copy of which is herewith forwarded. This order was handed to Colonel McReynolds, while yet at the jtinction, at 7.30 oclock in the evening. It will, I hope, be readily perceived that this order was the result of a belief, well founded, that the expedition would result in a failure, so far as the capture of the rebel force was con- cerned, as well as of an apprehension for the safety of the command. I further trust that when the commanding general is made acquainted with all the facts and circumstances, my action in time premises will not be disapproved. 1 am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. * Of September 29. See p. 369 Page 373 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 373 [Inclosure.] NEw CREEK, VA., September 28, 1862. Colonel MOREYNOLDS, First New York Cavalry, Comdg. Expedition: COLONEL: I have just received information that a large cavalry and artillery force left Martinsburg yesterday at 2 p. in., on the road to Horn- ney and Moorefield. I regret exceedingly you did not go forward last night, as I now fear your CXl)editiOn will be an utter flullure. If this reaches you before you leave the junction, you will fall back to this place at once; if not, as soon as you have accomplished the object of your ex- pedition, you will move at once from Moorefield across to Williamsport, and thence into the New Creek Valley and down it, to this place. Cap. tam Firey can pilot you. I will send forage, and rations to meet you at Greenland. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 267. ~ Camp near Sharpsburg, September 30, 1862. * * * * * * * VII. Brig. Gen. Edward Ferrero, volunteer service, is assigned to duty with the Ninth Corps. He will report without delay to Maj. Gen. A. E. Burnside, commanding Ninth Corps. * * * * * * * X. The following new regiments, now en ronte for Frederick, are as- signed to corps as follows: FIRST Conrs (Hookers), near Sharpsbnrg, Md. 24th Michigan. 136th Pennsylvania. 121st Pennsylvania (Gibbons brigade). 142d Pennsylvania. SECOND CORPS (Sumners), Harpers Ferry. 19th Maine (Howards brigade). SIXTH CORPS (Franklins), Bakersville, Md. 15th New Jersey. 23d New Jersey. 21st New Jersey. 26th New Jersey. NINTH CORPS (Burnsides). 21st Connecticnt. 11th New Hampshire. 10th New Hampshire. 7th Rhode Island TwELFTH CORPS (Banks). [20th Connecticut 1 140th New York. 123d New York. 145th New York. 137th New York. 149th New York. * Assigned October 1 Page 374 374 OPElIATIONS IN N. VA,, W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXL Coucns DIVISION, Sixth Corps, Bakersvillo. 37th Massachusetts. * * * L * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. Statement 8howing the number of men composing tite Army of the Potomac on the 30th day of September, 1562. 8 8 a ~ p-,,. a8 CS a 0 CS~. ~~1- -~ ,~ u0 ~ sr I a,- ~ a P~ C-C~C-. ~ ~ ~ bL n, nj .~ -~ General McClellan and staff, & c 1, 171 266 1, 0:37 2, 474 General Reynolds, First Corps 14, 102 2,014 15, 971 32, 087 General Sumner, Second Corps 15, 175 3,159 13, 315 31, 852 General F. J. Porter, Fifth Corps 17, 268 3,268 11, 152 31, 688 General Franklin, Sixth Corps 22, 568 2,937 1:1,907 39,412 General Buraside, Ninth Corps 15, 361 2,473 9, 964 27, 798 General A. 5. Williams, Twelfth Corps 8,383 1,6:12 7,144 17, 159 General Pleasonton, Cavalry Division 4, 143 515 2, 628 7, 686 Colonel Allen. Frederick City 1,052 343 811 2,206 Major Scott. Boonsborongh .. 318 41 83 442 General ranks, Defenses of Washington, including Third 73, 601 13, 810 25, 744 111, 155 and Eleventh Corps. Grand total 173,745 28,458 101,756 303,959 ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Ua8hinqton, D. 0., February 27, 1863. it is Ilereby certified that the preceding statement is accurately corn- l)iled from the morning report of the 30th day of September, 1862, signed by Major-General McClellan and his assistant adjutant-general, Seth Williams, and now OIl file in this office. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEAD QUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE POTOMAC, No. 158. f September 30, 1862, Tile following extract from General Orders, iNo. 125, of May 18, 1862, from these headquarters, is republished for the information of all con- cerned, and a strict observance of its provisions is enjoined upon all officers serving in this army: II. The publication of official reports of military events, or the circulation of copies of the same, for private purposes, in advance of their having reached tile War Depart- ment, and of the authorization of their publicatiou by the Secretary of War, is improper and utimilitary, and is strictly prohibited. Official reports are the property of the Government; they cannot be published or put in circillation without the consent of the proper authority. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WiLLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 375 375 CHAP. XXXI) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS, Washington, [September] 30, [1862]6.20. General JOHN J. ABERCROMI3IE: The colonel of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry reports that Stuart was crossing the Potomac at Harrisons [Island], 15 miles below Point of Rocks, this afternoon at 2.~5O oclock. In view thereof, the major-gen- eral comman(ling directs that you hold your two mobilized brigades in readiness to move. They will be replace(l, if necessary, by troops from this side. Further, the firing heard beyond Burkes is now reported as being the troops discharging their pieces. You will dispatch an orderly to Major Taggart with all this information, and direct him and the other cavalry to return to their original positions. Very respectfully, L. HU1~T, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. FAIRFAX C0URT-HOUSE, VA., September 30, 1862. Major-General BANKS: We have made over 1,200 prisoners at Warrenton, and paroled them. General Stahel was at Salem and White Plains, and found no enemy there. As I reported yesterday, there is a strong force of the enemy at Culpeper. His cavalry is advancing against Warrenton. F. SIGEL, Major- General, Commanding. POOLESYiLLE, MD., September 30, 1862. Capt. RICHARD B. IRWIN, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: A man, direct from Hamilton, Va., says that last night there passed down from Winchester to Leesburg, on the turnpike, one regiment of cavalry and four pieces of artillery. Hamilton is 6 miles from Lees- burg. Another informant says 1,200 cavalry and two pieces. Cheering was heard by our pickets last night in Leesburg, and commands given were distinguished. I am informed that to-day and to.morrow are the days set for collecting conscripts in Loudoun County. GEORGE STONEMAN, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS, Williamsport [Md.], October 1, 18625 p. m. General R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have just received information, from a refugee who has never yet given me false rumor, that the enemy has abandoned Bunker Hill,and that there is nothing but a few pickets between there and here; and, still further, that Hills, Longstreets, and Jacksons corps have gone through Winchester, en route for Richmond; that one of Jacksons lieu- tenants said that they went to Richmond to recruit, having been so much cut up, & c. He represents that Martinsburg is entirely abandoned, but that there is an army corps (dont know wbose) at Winchester, and no force abov Page 376 376 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Mt~., AND PA. C11A~. ~kkt me, except a few scouts. It is further stated that the corps above enu- merated have gone through Gordonsville. I know not what credence to give to this, but my informant believes it to be true. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN B. KENLY, Brigadier-General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 159. f Camp near Sharpsburg, Md., October 1, 1862. Notwithstanding the frequent orders that have been issued from these headquarters in regard to stragglers and pillagers, the commanding general regrets to be obliged again to call the attention of corps and other subordinate commanders to this subject, and to impress upon them the absolute necessity of holding the different commanders responsible for this (lirect and flagrant violation of orders. We are now occnpying a country inhabited by a loyal population, who look to us for the preservation of order and discipline, instead of suffering our men to go about in small parties, lawlessly depredating upon their property. Armed patrols will be sent out daily from all the different corps in this army to arrest all officers and soldiers who are absent from the lim- its of their camps without written permission from corps, division, or brigade commanders. All persons so arrested will be sent the same day to the provost-marshal-general, at these headquarters, who will, until further orders, send them under a guard to Harpers Ferry, there to be kept at work on the defenses of that place. In order that the require- ments of this order may be perfectly understood by all concerned, corps commanders will, within twenty-four hours after the receipt of this or- der, furnish evidence to the commanding general, through the assistant adjutant-general at these headquarters, that it has been published to every company under their command. The commanding general is i~esolved to put a stop to the pernicious and criminal practices of straggling and marauding, and he will hold corps commanders responsible for the faithful execution of this order. By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, As8istant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, October 11, 18622.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. S. P. HEINTZELMAN, Arlington: General McClellan directs that Brig. Gen. Nelson Taylor report to him in person, without delay. Please give him the order. RICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, October 1, 18628 p. m. Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarter8 Army of the Potomac: The last of the twenty regiments left here at 2 p. m. N. P. BANKS, Major-General Page 377 ~iHAP. XXXt~ CORftESPOND1~NCE, EtC.tJ~ION6 UPTONS HILL, October 1, 1862. (Received 10.30 p. in.) Major HUNT, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Arlington House: Captain Taylor, First Pennsylvania Cavalry, has just returned from near Leesburg. He reports having seen nothing, but learned from the l)eople that night before last a large body of cavalry, some infantry and artillery, passed through Leesbnrg, and some force is near Goose Creek. Yours, & c., GEO. D. BAYARD, Commanding Cavalry. ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, No.1. f Uptons Hill, Va., October 1, 1862. I. In pursuance of Special Orders, No. 18, Headquarters Defenses of Washington, I hereby assume command of all the cavalry south of the Potomac. * * * * * * * GEO. D. BAYARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Cavalry. ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, No.2. ~ Uptons Hill, Va., October 1, 1862. I. For the present the division will be composed of three brigades, with the following commanders, viz: First Brigade, Colonel Davies, Second New York Cavalry, commanding; Second Brigade, Colonel Price, Second Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanding; Third Brigade, Colonel Beardsley, Ninth New York Cavalry, commanding. II. The Tenth New York Cavalry, Captain Whitneys Independent Company, and a squadron of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry are assigned to Colonel Davies l)rigade. III. First Licut. W. H. Patterson and Second Lieut. T. C. Lebo, First Pennsylvania Cavalry, are hereby released from arrest, and will resume their sabers and return to duty. The commanding general trusts that this will be the last of this loiter. ing around the city without proper passes. By command of Brigadier-General Bayard, commanding cavalry: H. C. WEIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. BALTIMORE, MD., October 1, 18623.20 p. in. Major-General HALLECK: Major-General Banks says that you have ordered the One hundred and ninth New York Volunteers, at Annapolis Junction, to be placed under his command. This belongs to the Middle Department, and this regiment was placed there to protect the railroad from the Junction to the Patuxent. This part of the road is too important to be neglected, and does not come within the jurisdiction of Major-General Banks. The First District of Columbia Regiment, to which he refers, I have never considered under my command. We have three new regiments now waiting for cars to go to Washington. JOHN B. WOOL, Major- General, Commanding Page 378 878 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 272. ~ Washington, October 1, 1862. * * * * * * * H. Brig. Gen. W. H. Emory, U. S. Volunteers, will report in person, without delay, to Ma,jor.General Wool, at Baltimore Md. * * * * * * * By command of Major.General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. [OCTOBER 1,1862.For ilalleck to Wright, and reply, in reference to troops for West Virginia, see Series I, Vol. XVI, Part II, pp. 561, 562.] WASHINGTON, D. C., October 2, 1862. Major.General MCCLELLAN: It is reported that a largebody of the enemy was seen yesterday west of Bull Run Mountains, between Aldie and Thorough Care Gaps. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGiNIA, October 2, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Gommanding U. ~. Forces on the Potomac: GENERAL: Maj. Gen. A. P. Hill, of the C. S. Army, who had charge of the arrangements connected with the paroling of the prisoners at ilar. pers Ferry on the 15th ultimo, permitted General White to have the use of 27 wagons and teams, to carry the private baggage of the officers to some point convenient for transportation.* It was agreed to between these two officers that these wagons and teams should be returned within our lines at Winchester in a few days, or, if that place should be in the hands of the United States forces, then to the nearest Confederate post. I think proper to make known to you the above agreement, in order that some arrangement may be made for the return of the wagons and teams. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, IR. E. LEE, General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHiNGTON, October 2, 186212 m. General HALLECK: FAIRFAX Counr-HoUsE---11.45 a. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN: Major Knox was at Aldie yesterday with the Ninth New York Cavalry. Made an attack on the town, and found a column of Stuarts cavalry at the bridge. He says it was the rear gnard of Stuarts cavalry, who had come to Aldie (lay hefore yester- day, and were on their march from Aldie to Middleburg. Probably this is the force which came from Hopewell, and marched up to Aldie this side of Bull Run Mountain. I send yon this morning two negroes from Winchester, with very interesting i nfo-ination. * See Part I, p. 801 Page 379 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 379 They say a large portion of the enemys artillery has gone back to Strasburg; that the enemy is not working on the intrencliments at Winchester, and that he has not occupied the forts. He has not received many conscripts, and is suffering from want of food. The enemys pickets were at Bristoc Station this morning. F. SIGEL, Major-GeneraL Respectfully forwarded, for the information of the General-in-Chief. N. P. BANKS, Major- General, Commanding. FAIRYIEW, Mn., October 3, [1862]. Via Hagerstown, October 6, [1862]6 p. In. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Headquarters: Judging by camp smoke, the main force of the enemy is between Martinsburg and Winchester, and in the same position as when last reported. W. W. ROWLEY, Acting Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS, October 3, 1862. General R. E. LEE, Commanding Army of Northern Vir~qinia: GENERAL: Major-General McClellan instructs me to inform you that your communication of the 2d instant (relating to the vehicles provided under special understanding with General White at Harpers Ferry) was received by him on horseback at a distance from writing conven- iences; that he will inquire into the circumstances, and see that the stipulations are complied with at the earliest moment. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. J. PORTER, Major- General, Commanding. [OCTOBER 3, 1862.For General Orders, No. 160, Headquarters Army of the Potomac of this date, see Part I, p. 182.] SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 270. f Camp near Sharpsburg, October 3, 1862. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. W. W. Averell, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the Cavalry Division, for duty with the brigade which he commanded as colonel. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 380 380 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXt SIGELS HEADQUARTERS, October 3, 18629.30 p. m. Major-General HEINTZELMAN: A party, under IAeut. E. Koenig, has just returned from Stevens-. burg, near Culpeper. There are two regiments of cavalry, three of in- fantry, and one battery of the enemy at the iRappahannock Station. The rebels are at work at that bridge, which will probably be finished by to-morrow night, in order to run three locomotives and the freight cars over. There are about 2,000 wounded and sick at Culpeper, which are removed as fast as possible. But few troops at Fredericksburg; two companies of cavalry and three companies of infantry, about 300 men in all. F. SIGEL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON, october 3, 186211.10 p. m. Brig. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, or Col. J. H. HOBART WARD, Commanding Corp8 of Observation, Poolesville: General Sigel telegraphs from Fairfax Court-House, 9.40 p. in., that a detachment of cavalry,just returned from Goose Creek, reports strong cavalry force of enemy at or near Leesburg; also that scouts report no force at Aldie or Thoroughfare Gaps orWarrenton. IRICHD B. IRWIN, Captain, Aide-de-Camp, and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen. NOTE TO OPERATOR.If not already communicated to General Mc- Clellan, please send him a copy of the above. [OCTOBER 3, 1862.For Peirpoint to Wright and reply, in reference to operations in West Virginia, see Series I, Vol. XVI, Part ii, pp. 569, 570.] WASHINGTON, ID. C., October 4, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Brigadier-General Bayard reports rumors that General Longstreet is moving to Leesburg, with intention to cross the river, while Jackson holds you in check at Harpers Ferry. A considerable number of new troops have arrived in the last few days, and can be sent into the field. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., October 4, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Brig. Gen. J. ID. Cox will be directed to repair immediately to Point Pleasant and take command of operations on the Kanawha River. H. W. HALLECK General-in- OJhief. [OCTOBER 4, 1862.For Halleck to Wright, and reply, in reference to operations on the Kanawha, see Series I, Vol. XVI, Paj~t II, pp. 573, 574. Page 381 CHAr. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 381 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 271. Camp near Sharpsburg, October 4, 1862. I. Brig. Gen. Nelson Taylor, volunteer service, will report for tern- porary duty to Brig. Gen. J. F. Reynolds, commanding First Corps. * * * * * * * V. Brig. Gen. G. W. Getty, volunteer service, will report for duty to Major-General Burnside, commanding Ninth Corps. VI. Brio. Gen. Thomas L. Kane will report for duty to Brig. Gen. A. S. Williams, commanding Twelfth Corps. * * * * * * * XIII. Pursuant to instructions which have been received from the General.iu-Chief, Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, volunteer service, will iinme- diately repair to Point Pleasant and take command of operations on the Kanawlia River. XIV. Pursuant to authority from the War Department, the Seventh Maine Regiment will proceed to Portland, Me., for the purpose of re- cruiting and reorganization, under the direction of His Excellency the Governor of Maine. On arriving at Portland, the regimental commander will report by letter to the Governor for orders. The Quartermasters Department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. POOLESYILLE, October 4, 18621.30 p. m. Brigadier-General STONEMAK, Baltimore: The following from General Bayard, through Washington: The enemy picketing the line of Goose Creek; 1,100 cavalry now there. Rumored that General Longstreet is coming down to cross the Potomac at Great Falls, Jackson holding McClellan up the river in the mean time. E. V. SUMNER, JR., Aide-de.Camp. llEAD~uARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN YIRGrNIA, October 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, - Commanding Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a letter to Mrs. Philip Kearny, and at the same time commit to your care the sword, horse, and saddle of Major-General Kearny, which fell into our hands at the time of his death. Mrs. Kearny expressed a great desire to obtain the sword and horse of her husband, and I beg leave to hope that it may be convenient to you to forward them to her. The horse has accompanied the march of the army since its capture, and may have suffered from the journey. The bridle was either lost at the time of the capture or has not been recovered. I am, most r~spectfuhIy, your obedient servant, It. E. LEE, General, Commanding Page 382 382 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAr. XXXI. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 18623 p. m. Col. A. T. MCREYNOLDS, Gommanding Cavalry, Cumberland, Md.: General Kelley has been informed that his action in ordering you to New Creek meets the approbation of the commanding general, and that should he still desire your assistance against Ituboden, he can assume command temporarily over your forces. By command of Major-General McClellan: I{. B. MARCY Chif of Staff. CLARKSBURG, VA., October 4, 186210.20 p. m. Col. 11. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff, Harpers Perry: Your telegram just received. Am advised that the rebels burnt Lit- tle Cacapon Bridge last night, and captured a company of the Fifty- fourth Pennsylvania at Paw Paw this morning. The enemy reported 1,500 strong, and having come by way of Bloomery Gap. I expect to return to New Creek on Monday. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 18628 p.m. Col. W. W. AVERELL, Williamsport, lid.: (Care of General W. T. H. Erdoks, ilagerstown, Md.) Colonel MeReynolds reports from Green Spring this evening, by tele- graph, that a cavalry force, said to be Stuarts cavalry, made a raid early this morning, capturing one company of Fifty-fourth Pennsylva- nia Volunteers, and destroyed the Little Cacapon Bridge. It is expected they will attempt to destroy the South Branch and Patterson Creek Bridges to-night. Colonel MeReynolds is directed to prevent the destruction of the last- named bridge, if possible. You will set out with all your disposable force, as soon as practicable after the receipt of this (lispatch, and en- deavor to intercept this cavalry, and show them that these raids cannot be made with impunity. I will notify Colonel McReynolds that you are en route. II. B. MARCY Chief of & aff. P. S..General Brooks will please send this to Colonel Averell at once. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 4, 18628.30 p. m. General KELLEY, Commanding, Cumberland: Colonel MeReynolds just reports, by telegraph, that a cavalry force, said to be Stuarts, made a raid this morning, capturing one company of the Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and destroyed the Littl Page 383 CHAP. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 383 Cacapon Bridge, and that they intended to destroy the South Branch and Patterson Creek Bridges to-night. Colonel McReynolds has been directed to prevent the destruction of the latter, if possible. Colonel Averell, at Williamsport, with four regiments of cavalry, has been di- rected to march at once and endeavor to intercept Stuart. Please take steps to do all in your power to prevent the destruction of the bridges, and, if necessary, assume command for the time of Colonel McReynolds troops. There should be co-operation in this, and, if possible, Stuart should not be allowed to get away unharmed. B. B. MARCY. CAMP IN THE FIELD, October 4, [1862]10 ~a. m. General GEORGE SYKES: GENERAL: Our officer of the day reports having discovered a battery of four guns in position, opposite the month of the ravine in our front, supported by a brigade of infantry, apparently awaiting an attack. While he was observing, they were re-enforced by one gun. The trains, to which I called your attention, he saw passing up and through a town supposed by us to be Berryville. The trains appeared blocked occa- sionally. Wagons can be seen for a distance of 6 miles at least, mov- ing up the river. We have a reconnoitering party on the point above us, and one starting to the river immediately on our right. General Warren is out with the former, and Lieutenant-Colonel Wallace with the latter. I will report immediately on their return. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. B. TYLER, Brigadier-General. PLANE No. 1, BALTIMORE AND OHIO RAILROAD, October 4, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: I am in receipt of a dispatch from our agent at Wheeling, stating that the bridge over the Little Cacapon River, 21 miles east of Cumberland, was destroyed by the enemy last night; and that unless General Kelley is re-enforced promptly, it is feared that great destruction of the road will follow. If nothing else can be done at present, cannot General Milroys brigade, said to be now at Parkersburg, be ordered to aid threatened points ~l Must rely on you to do what is practicable to aid in saving this great line from the threatened calamities. J. W. GARRETT, President. MCCLELLANS HEADQUARTERS, October 5, 186211 a. m. (Received 11.10 a. in.) Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: In compliance with your instructions, General Cox has been ordered to report to you for duty on the Kanawha. General Coxs gallant serv- ices in the battle of South Mountain and at Antietam, during which, after Renos fall, he commanded an army corps, contributed greatly toward our success in those hard-I~ught engagements. He has bee Page 384 384 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. recommended by General Burnside, his immediate commander, for pro- motion. Although I am now to lose the services of this valuable officer with this army, it is no more than an act of justice to him that I should concur in the recommendation of General Burnside, which I do most cordially and earnestly, and request that the promotion be made at once. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5,18621 p. in. (Received 1.25 p. in.) Major.General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, Colonel Voss; the Eighth New York Cavalry, Colonel Davis, and some Maryland cavalry, of the mounted troops that escaped from Harpers Ferry, are now serving in connection with the operations of this army, but are understood to be claimed by General Wool as forming a part of his command. I respectfully ask t.hat it be decided to whose command these troops belongto General Wools or my own. I have supposed they were under my orders. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5,186210.30 p. m. (Received 11.05 p. in.) General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: It is probable that I was not sufficiently explicit in the telegram I sent you regarding the construction of permanent wagon bridges across the Potomac and the Shenandoah at Harpers Ferry. I did not intend to be understood as recommending them for our present operations, par- ticularly with reference specially to the permanent occupation of that important strategic military position. I still think it of great impor. tance that these bridges should be constructed without delay. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 1862. General R. E. LEE, ~Jommanding Army of Northern Virginia: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your let- ter of the 4th instant, inclosing a letter to Mrs. Philip Kearny, and, at the same time, committing to my care the sword, horse, and saddle of Major-General Kearny, to the end that, in accordance with the expressed wish of Mrs. Kearny, they may be placed in her keeping. The articles have been received, and, with the letter, will be forwarded to Mrs. Kearny by the earliest opportunity. I beg you to accept my thanks for your courteous and humane attention to the request of the widow of this lamented officer. 1 shall be happy to reciprocate the courtesy when cir- cumstances shall place it in my power to do so. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 385 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. XXXI.] 385 CLARKSBURG, VA., October 5, 186210.30 a. in. General R. B. MAuCY, Chief of Staff: Just received a dispatch from Colonel McReynolds, informing me that the force that destroyed Little Cacapon Bridge and captured a company at Paw Paw was Jinbodens, and that while Imboden was absent from his camp it was attacked and taken by Captain Boyd, with a detach- ment of Colonel McReynolds command. I have ordered Colonel Mc- Reynolds to pursue him in force at once. If Colonel Averell, with his command, will follow up the Big Cacapon from Bloomery Gap, Imboden cannot escape. B. F. KELLEY, Brigadier-General. (Copy to General ilalleck.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 186212.50 p. m. General AVERELL, Commanding Cavalry en route: General Kelley just reports from Clarksburg that the force which de- stroyed Little Cacapon Bridge was 1,000 infantry and 500 cavalry, under a man named Imboden; that one of McReynolds captains afterward cap- tured the rebel camp, with two pieces of artillery, & c. Colonel MciRey- nolds has been ordered to pursue at once, and General Kelley says, if General Averell will follow np the Big Cacapon from Bloomery Gap, Imboden cannot escape. lt B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. [Indorsemeut.] General Brooks, commanding at Hagerstown, will please take steps to have the dispatch to General Averell forwarded to him by a mounted man, at once. The messenger can ascertain at Williamsport from Gen- eral Kenly the road taken by General Averell. Answer. iR. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 186210 p. m. General N. P. BANKS, Commanding, Washington: The general commanding wishes you to make arrangements to estab- lish a chain of cavalry pickets from the point where the Little River pike crosses Goose Creek, running through Aldie around in the direc- tion of Brentsville, as far as may be necessary to cover the approaches to Washington. General Stoneman will be directed to occupy Leesbnrg as soon as a pontoon bridge can be thrown across the Potomac opposite that place, or at Conrads Ferry, probably, in two or three days. His cavalry pick- ets will connect with yours at Goose Creek, and extend on the Little 25 i~ 1~YOL XIX, PT I Page 386 386 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. XXXI. River pike to Snickersville. General Sumners cavalry will connect with Stonemans, and run down the Shenandoah to Harpers Ferry. This, as you will perceive, will cover Washington from every approach in the direction of the enemy. R. B. MARCY, Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5, 186210 p. m. General GEORGE STONEMAN, Poolesville: As soon as a pontoon bridge can be thrown across the Potomac near you (probably in two or three days), the commanding general directs that you concentrate your artillery and infantry near Leesburg, keep- ing out a line of cavalry pickets upon the Little River pike from the point where it crosses Goose Creek to Snickersville. General Sumners cavalry will connect with yours at Snickersville, and General Banks cavalry will connect with your left at the crossing of Goose Creek. Please report the amount of cavalry you now have under your com- mand, and what additional force of this arm, if any, you will require to perform the service specified. R. B. MARCY, Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 5 186210 General E. V. SUMNER, m. Gommanding, Harpers Ferry: The commanding general desires you to send out all your disposable cavalry to-morrow morning on a reconnaissance as far toward Charles- town as can be done with safety. Lieutenant Bowen, Topographical Engineers, will accompany the detachment. Please communicate to him this information. R. B. MARCY, Chief of Staff. [OCTOBER 5, 1862.For Wright to Halleck, iu reference to operations in West Virginia, see Series 1, Vol. XVI, Part II, p. 574.] SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 272. Camp near Shapsburg, ilLd., October 5, 1862. * * * * * * * VI. Brig. Gen. H. S. Briggs, volunteer service, will report for duty to Maj. Gen. F. J. Porter, commanding Fifth Army Corps. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General McClellan: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 387 Cn~r. XXXI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 387 WASHINGTON, D. C., October 6, 18623.35 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN: The cavalry which escaped from Harpers Ferry and now in your army will remain with it. Major-General Coxs old division will march to Hancock and take cars to Clarksburg, where it will meet and report to General Milroy. General Cox will command the District of Western Virginia, but will co-operate with you whenever he can do so. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Near Sharpsburg, Md., October 6, 18624.30 p. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK General-in-Chief: Your telegram ordering Coxs division to Clarksburg was received before the one directing the offensive across the Potomac.* Is it still intended that Cox should march at once ~ It is important in making my decision regarding the route to be taken by the army that I should know, first,what description of troops Jam to be re-enforced with upon the Shenandoah route, and also npon the other route between the enemy and Washington; whether they are to be old or new troops, or what proportion of each. If possible, I should be glad to have Pecks division sent to me, if it can be got here within a reasonable time. Second, will you inform me what the present condition of the Alex- andria and Leesburg Railroad is; also the Manassas Gap Railroad, and what time it would require to put them in working order ~l It is believed that the Harpers Ferry and Winchester Railroad is not materially injured. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUA~RTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 6, 1862. (Received 7.45 p. in.) General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Lieutenant Comstock has received an order relieving him from duty with the Army of the Potomac, to report to General Wright. Lieuten- ant Coinstock has been engaged in arranging and superintending the defenses at Harpers Ferry, and his services cannot be dispensed with there at this time without manifest detriment to the service, as he has made himself familiar with the whole ground. I, therefore, most respect- fully beg leave to suggest that Lieutenant MeAlester, who is now here, be directed to report for duty to General Wright. I should regret very much to lose the services of Lieutenant Comstock at Harpers Ferry at this time. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding. See general reports, Part I, p. 72 Page 388 388 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA, MD., AND PA. [CHAP. XXXI. HEADQUARTEIZS ARMY OF ri~n POTOMAC, October 6, 18625.40 p. m. (Received 7.50 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. JIALLECK, General-in- Chiej: Copy of General Grants dispatch just received. From the bottom of my heart I congratulate you on the results, and hope that the Army of the Potomac may soon again offer good tidings to the country. When you dispatch to Grant, please offer my congratulations. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 6, 1862. General R. E. LEE, (Jommanding Army of Northern Virginia: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your let- ter of the 2d instant, in regard to the return of 27 wagons and teams,. furnished by Maj. Gen. A. P. Hill for the use of certain paroled officers of the United States Army. These wagons and teams are now on their return from Washington, and are expected here in two days. Upon their arrival, I will send them immediately to such place as you may in the mean time be pleased to designate. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, (ommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER, Camp on the Antietam, Md., October 6, 18622 p. in. Col. C. G. SAWTELLE, Quartermaster, Cass Building, Vermont are., Washington, P. C.: Arrived at 9 a. in. General McClellan wishes to know when the canal will be in order to Harpers Ferry, and what force is at work upon it. He is anxious to make use of this canal at once. Send an officer to push forward the clothing, stationery, & c., to Jiagerstown and Harpers Ferry. The delay is outrageous. Find out where the obstacles are. Sen