TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 43 (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, 1893 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 ~g7~~4 q/w/#v F LL5~ ~4I f22 CR Title Page Page 1 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL ZIRECOIIRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF The Hon. DANIEL S. LAMONT, Secretary of War, BY MAJ. GEORGE B. DAVIS, U. S. A., MR. LESLIE J. PERRY, MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY, Board of Publication. SERIES IVOLUME XLIIIIN TWO PARTS. PART IlCORRESPONDENCE, ETC. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1893 Page 2 A. (~z5 Page 3 PAIIRT ILVOL. XLIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING SPECIALLY TO OPERATIONS IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, AND PENNSYLVANIA, SEPTEMBER 1, 1864, TO DECEMBER 31, 1864. * UNION CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CITY POINT, VA., September 1, iSGI. (Received 3.40 p. in.) Maj. Gen. I~. H. SHERIDAN, Charlestown, Va.: Some refugees who left Richmond last night are just iii. One, an intelligent young man of Northern birth, says that on last Sunday he met an acquaintance of his who has long been a sutler in the army; that he knew of his having gone some time ago to Early, in the Valley, with a supply of tobacco. He says that when they met on Sunday the sutler told him that all of Earlys troops were on their way back. He does not know what point they had reached on their return, but the fact of the whole force returning was spoken of as if there was no doubt about it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. ClTY POINT, September 1, 1d64i) p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Charlestown, Va.: The frequent reports of Averells falling back without niuch fight- ing or even skirmishing, and afterward being able to take his old position without opposition, presents a very bad appearance at this distance. You can judge better of his merits than I can, but it looks to me as if it was time to try some other officer in his place. If you think as I do in this matter, relieve him at once and name his successor. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CHARLESTOWN, W. VA., September 1, 18G4!).5Yi~ . m. (Received 1.30 p. ma.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Averell, who was at Martinsburg, was obliged to fall back to a point between Hainesville and Williamsport. I think that he will be able to advance again to-day. The two divisions sent to the rear have not yet For CorresponJeuce, etc., August 4, 1864, to August 31, 1864, see Part I, P. 681, et seq. (3 Page 4 4 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. accomplished anything, even to giving me information whether the enemy has sent any considerable force of troops from the Valley. I wanted to get between Strasburg and the remaining force. For this reason I have remained quiet here for the last day or two. The reports of the people are that the troops have been ordered back to Richmond. As yet, I have no good reason to believe that any have left. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. P. S.J have just heard from Averell. As I snppo~ed, the affair was not of much conseiuence, and he is going back to Martinsburg. P.H.S. WASHINGTON, September 1, 1864. Lient. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant-General, City Point, Ira..: Scoutsjust up report as follows, to 30th nitimo: No signs of any move- ments from the Valley. One passenger train rnnning daily between Staunton and Richmondup in morning and down at night. Three freight trains weekly through to Staunton. No troops seen on rail- road but returning convalescents. Trains on Fredericksburg railroad only mn to Hanover Junction. Bnilding bridge over North Anna; will be done 15th instant, when trains will be run to Hamiltons Cross- ing. General Lee reported severely wounded at Weldon railroad fight. GEOR~?TE K. LEET, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. I)EPAIITMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., AS1eptember 1, 1861. Major-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Division, Harpers Ferry: Major Waite has returned from Upperville in the vicinity of Snick- ers Gap; reports no rebel forces in that vicinity except Mosbys. He brought in thirty men and thirty horses, and destroyed a good deal of property. No wagons can be found to bring off supplies in any quan- tity. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Charlestown, September 1, 186411.10 p. m. (Received 7.35 a. m. 2d.) Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR, Commanding: Your disDatch of this evening relative to Major Waites command received. All quiet here. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff Page 5 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 5 ALEXANDRIA, September 1, 1861. Colonel TAYLOR, (Received 2 a. m. 2d.) Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: We have information that the rebels made three attacks on Falls Church; the first last night, another this morning, then at 12 oclock to-day; our loss, one man and one horse captured. I have sent what cavalry I have to re-enforce my picket-line, thinking they may attack them to-night. H. H. WELLS. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, iYear Fort Buffalo, Va., September 1, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that last night at about 10.30 oclock one of our picket-posts was attacked near this camp. The attacking party was driven oft; however, with the loss to the rebels of one horse, and, it is believed, one man wounded. About the same hour the picket-posts on the Braddock road and on the road to Falls Church and Annandale were attacked simultaneously and driven in. This morning at about 6 a. m. one of our pickets about half a mile west of the village of Falls Church was attacked and one vedette captured. Late to-day two of our picket-posts between here and Annandale were attacked at about the same time by a force of between twenty and thirty men; ~ men were captured and 7 horses, while 4 men escaped. At about the same hour the picket-post on the Little River pike toward Fairfax Court-House from Annandale was attacked and 1 sergeant and a horse were wounded, 2 men and 3 horses captured. In consequence of these continued attacks I have strengthened the picket-posts to one corporal and four men each, and have dismounted the entire line, with the exception of the non-commissioned officers at each picket station. They are directed to build a cribwork of fallen trees to intrench them- selves by day and to prevent being charged over by mounted men, and at night the directions are now the same as I have always giventhat after dark the vedette should be stationed near the road, concealed and the rest of the picket moved to some point near him within 200 yards, also concealed. A force of 100 men has been sent out from the Six- teenth New York, divided into two parties, with directions to examine the country in our vicinity. One hundred men from the same regi- ment were also sent to Annandale to remain several days, that a more eff~ctive stockade might be completed there. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT or WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., September 1, 1864. Colonel LAZELLE, (Jommanding near Falls Church: I have reliable information that Mosby is still lying in the woods in front of yo~ir lines and expects to make an attack to-night somewher Page 6 6 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LV. upon it. Please have all your men on duty notified of this, that they may be on their guard and take proper precautions. if not successful to-night he proposes to remain until he strikes some important blow. Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, ]Ifajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRK~ADE Captain LORD Near Fort Buffalo, Va., September 1, 1864. Commanding at Lewmusrilie: CAPTAIN: Information has been received here considered reliable, that i\Josby, with a considerable force, some 100 or 200, is lying in the forest in the vicinity of our picket-lines waiting to strike a blow. It is of the utmost importance that you use the utmost vigilance against surprise, both of your pickets and stockade. You had better increase the strength of each of your picket-posts by two dismounted men each. Do this after dark, and let the men remain on until morning until fur- ther orders. Please see that no more horses are sent out on your picket-posts, except those of the non-commissioned officers in charge. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York C~avalry, Corn dg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS, Annandale Stockade, Va., September 1, 1864. First Lieut. EDWIN V. LANSINQ Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Cavalry Brigade, Fort Buffalo, Va.: SIR: I have the honor to inform you that last night, at about tattoo, our pickets on the Old Church and on the Braddock road were attacked, all at the same time, and driven into camp. The picket stationed near the Old Church had just changed its position toward this side of the lane leading from Coxs house, when the vedette heard the tramp of horses coming from Coxs toward the lane. Mr. Cox had about a minute ago passed up that avenue with a team,which caused to diminish the sound of the advancing guerrillas. The vedette challenged; answer was, Friend. Dismount and make yourself known~ had hardly escaped the vedettes mouth when the rebel leader gave the command Charge, and give it to them. They charged- and fired their pistols, whilst the picket returned the fire and ran toward the pike where another picket was stationed, which also fired and pro- ceeded to camp. The attacking party, as far as I can learn, consisted of from fifteen to twenty men. Simultaneous with the above attack about eight or ten other guerrillas made a descent onto the Braddock road picket, who responded to their fire and ran across the field into camp. The other pickets around the camp were not disturbed and remained in their places. Our communication with Fort Buffalo was entirely cut off by those attacks. About 10 p. m. we heard two shots, one in tIme woods near the Old Church, the other one near the Braddock road, which I took to be signal shots. It would have been sacrificing men and horses to attempt to send messengers to your headquarters, as I was sure all roads leading to Fort Buffalo were invested by them Page 7 CHAP. LY.] 7 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. I would respectfully request to be informed whether there could be other means and ways found to communicate with headquarters in case of an alarm here (for instance, rockets), which would not be as expen- sive as the probable loss of men, horses, and arms by attempting to run the gauntlet to Fort Buffalo. I furthermore respectfully request to be furnished with assistance to complete my stockade and abatis, after which I think we cau cope with four times our number, but as it is now I have hardly men enough to keep up the original picket-line. Mr. Cox was here this morning to report the matter to me. As lie said, he was coming from Washington, D. C., when two [men] came up to him iu his orchard, taking him to be a peddler. He told them he was Mr. Cox, and asked whether they had seen any rebels, thinking them to be U. S. soldiers. We arc rebels, they replied. My name is Wren, Mr. Cox. What is the news in Washington O?~~ Not any, except McClellans ~ was Mr. Coxs answer. They then left, and immediately after he heard the soundof horses feet, he judged from a dozen to twenty; then the firing commenced; ceased. Heard another party of about the same strength passing through the road on the north side of his house, galloping toward time Old Church, and ten minutes after another party running in the same direction. I had three of my men watching Coxs house since 3 oclock this morning. They could not learn anything decisive iu regard to Mr. Cox and his sons. Wren, the leader of the first party of Mosbys men, has his father living in the neighborhood of Falls Church. Trumbull, who lives on the road to Burkes Station, tells me that Kmdrels men are about also. I think the most of those men are even at present roaming around our neighborhood in the woods. I arrested a man by the name of Kidwell, by orders from your headquarters, charged with giving information to Mosby. I do not know whether lie is the right one, as there are more than a dozen Kidwells living around Fairfax County. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. SCHNEIDER, Capt., Sixteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry, Comdg. Stockade. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, September 1, 1864. Lient. Col. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Armies of the United States: I desire to call the attention of the Lieutenant-General commanding the Armies of the United States to the enormous list of absent sick on my report for August 31, 18f54, viz, 4,187 and, on the other Imand, to the very small number who are present sick, viz, 435, and on this to base a suggestion to the general commanding that the absent sick, most of whom are iii the Department of the Gulf, shall be immediately sent North. Our troops have steadily improved in health since they have come North, and I have no doubt that if those whom we left be- hind sick were sent to the Northern hospitals we should have in one month an accession to our force from 2,000 to 4,000 men. If allowed to remain in the hospitals of the Department of tIme Gulf 1 doubt if one-tenth of that number will ever rejoin their regiments. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient serv- ant, W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding Page 8 8 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. ORDERS.] HDQR8. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Berryville, Va., & ptember ~, 1864. The First and fliird Divisions of Cavalry will move to-morrow a. in. at 3 oclock to the north side of Buliskin Run. The maui column of the First Division will march on the Charlestown and Berryville pike, and take position on the north side of Bullskiu Run, the left resting on the pike. The pickets of this division will move back part of the way on the Summit Point pike; thence by country rbads to Rippon. The Third Division will march on the river road, via Kabletown, and take position on the north side of Bnllskin Run, the right resting on the pike aiid connecting with the left of the First Division. The pickets of this division will fall back part of the way on the Berryville and Snickers Gap pike; thence down the river road, following the division. There must be no bugle calls sounded for this movement. By command of Brigadier.General Torbert, chief of cavalry: WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assi8tant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 1, 1864. The forage received just now will be issued to-night, and the com- mand will return to-morrow morning at 3 oclock to a position near Kabletown, on the north side of the Bullskin Run, marching by couutry roads from the rear of its present position. Order of march: First Brigade, with Fitzhughs battery, ambulances, and ammunition train; Second Briga~e, with Penningtons battery. The picket-line will not be relieved till after the command has beeu withdrawn, and will then march to the rear, following the general direction of the column, and will be assembled when it shall have appeared that the command has not been followed by the enemy. There will be no bugle calls sounded in executing the movement. By command of Brigadier.General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, Brigadier-General MCTNTOSH, September 1, 1864. Commanding First Brigade: GENERAL: General Merritt is going to send a regiment across our front and the Front Royal pike to reach the Valley pike. You will, therefore, direct one regiment from your brigade to move down the Winchester road and make a demonstration against the emiemys forces that may be found near the Opequon, sending a patrol of one sqnadroli toward the Miliwood pike, to be detached from the regiment when it shall have got nearest to the Opequon. General Chapman will be directed to make a similar demonstration on the Millwood and Win- chester pike. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: - L. SIIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 9 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 9 HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, September 1, 18648 a. m. General GEORGE H. CHAPMAN, Corn rn anding Second Brigade: GENERAL: General Merritt is going to send a regiment across our front and the Front Royal pike to reach the Valley pike. You will, therefore, send one regiment from your brigade by the Stone Church to the Miliwood and Winchester pike, and instruct the commanding officer to make a Vigorous push along that road toward Winchester, going to awl beyond, if possible, the Opequon. After reaching the nearest point to Winchester, let him, if he thinks best, detach a small party for the purpose of penetrating to the Valley pike and obtainiiig some precise and definite information of the enemys movements an(l intentions. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, September 1 1864Evening, near 8 oclock. E. M. STANTON, (Received 8.15 ~. in.) Secretary of War: Have just returned from front. The enemy yesterday evening drove Xverell from Martin sburg, then retired in direction of Bunker Hill. Yesterday evening and to-day they were found in force between Berry- ville and Winchester. The best information to be obtained at front indicates the enemy still in force at Bunker Hill. There is no evidence of their having retired any of their forces down the Valley, except throngh rebel sources. The developments of the cavalry on both flanks last night and to-day controverts the conclusion that the enemy are giving up the Valley. Torbert is pressing his reconnaissance in the direction of Winchester this evening, the enemy holding the opposite side of the Opequon Creek in force. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA, No. 70. Charlestown, W. Va., September 1, 1864. In obedience to General Orders, No. 248, current series, War Depart- ment, Adjutant-Generals Office the undersigned hereby assumes com- mand of the Department of West Virginia. GEORGE CROOK, Brevet Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA, No. 160. Charlestown, TV Va., September 1, 1864. * * * * * * * 6. Capt. G. A. Gordon, Second U. S. Cavalry, having reported to these headquarters, in obedience to orders from the War Department, for assignment to duty as special inspector of cavalry for the depart- ment, is hereby announced as such, and will, after the completion of his present duties at Harpers Ferry, W. Va., proceed to Cumberlaud Page 10 rOHAP. LV. 10 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. Md., and make a thorough inspection of the camp of instruction for cavalry about to be established there by Brig. Gen. A. N. J)uffi6, coni- inanding First Cavalry J)ivision, making a full report of such inspec- tion to these headquarters. * * * * * * * By order of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, (Ike riestown, Va., AVi)tember 1, 1& b4. Brig. Gen. W. W. AVERELL, Commanding Cavalry Dirision: GENERAL: I am in receipt of your note* of last night. I think the movement made against you yesterday was with the intention of caus- ing General Torbert to fall back from up the Valley, and I think the enemy will return to their position at Bunker lull during the night or early this morning. In case they do this, follow them up closely with your advance guard. In case they should make any attempt to cross the river let me know immediately; be sure and keep me constantly posted. The cavalry force up the Valley under General Torbert has as yet obtained no information whatever iii regard to the enemys move- ments. Very respectfully, P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY I)lVISIoN, Charlestown, Va., September 1, 186410.40 a. in. Brig. Gen. W. W. AVERELL, Commanding Carairy Dirision: GENERAL: I am in receipt of your last dispatch.* Follow up the enemy and watch his movements. Your affair of yesterday is all right. General Torbert has not developed anything yet, but probably will to-day; then we will all act in concert. Respectfully, P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Charlestown, W. Va., September 1, 1864. Brevet Major-General KELLEY, (Received 4 ~ in.) Cumberland, Md.: Have the stragglers been forwarded yet from Cumberland to Har- pers Ferry ~ If not, send them at once, as they are useless to you while unarmed. They can be armed at the Ferry. By order of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. Not found Page 11 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 11 WHEELING, September 1, 1864. Major-General KELLEY: Mr. Porter gets the following from Mr. Wilson, at Baltimore: We have information from the War Department that the road is now clear. The forces from the east start up this p. m. Advise with General Kelley, and corn- mence reconstructing as soon as he gives you protection. JOHN L. WLLSON. J. B. FOI~D. CITMBE1mLAND, September 1, 196411 a. m. J. B. FORD, Esq., Wheeling: I had hoped that we could commence the reconstruction of the road at once, but General Averell was driven back from Martinsburg yester- day about ii a. in., since which I have heard nothing from below Back Creek. The road and bridges are all right to within a mile of Martins- burg. I will advise you as soon as I hear from Averell. All quiet here. B. F. KELLEY, Breret Major- General. MYERSYILLE, VA., September 1, 1864. Captain BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I have the honor [to state that] along here and on the other side of the river Mosbys command has gone up the Loudoun Valley. A party started down on a raid yesterday, crossing at Snickers Ford, where I struck their trail iu a short time after, but they fonnd I was after them and recrossed below Bakers Ford. Captain Ewing had a skirmish with a party of them the other day, driving them across the river, killing one of them. I am shoeing my horses. I am going on a raid to Upperville to-morrow night. I am, sir, very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, R. BLAZER, Captain of Scouts. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISION, September 1, 1864. Maj: 0-en. L. WALLACE, Comman{linq Middle Department: GENERAL: The major-general commanding desires me to state for your information that most of the citizens of this country nnder the age of fifty years have been arrested by the directibn of the lieutenant- general commanding, even though there was no particular charge bronght against them. This conrse has been pursned in order to pre- vent as far as possible the enemy learning our movements, and only those male citizens (under the age mentioned) who have given the most positive proof of their loyalty are allowed to remain within our immediate lines. Very respectftilly, general, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 12 12 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CIIAP. LY. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 203. Charnbersburg, Pa., & pternber 1, 1864. * * * * * * 6. Col. F. Asbury Awl, cominaiiding Two hundred and first Regi- ment Pennsylvania Volunteers, will sen(l one company of inflintry from his command to Carrick Furnace, ~ll Path Valley, and another company to the mountain in the road leading from Fannettsbnrg to Burnt Cabins, and carry out the instructions to be furnished by Maj. John B. Burt, aide-dc-camp, who will accompany the same, and the men will be supplied with six days rations and forty rounds of ammu- nition, and each company supplied with twenty axes. The quarter- masters department will furnish the necessary transportation for rations and axes. The troops will march promptly from their l)resent camp at 10 a. in., the 2d instant. By command of Major-General Coach: JNO. S. SCIIULTZE Assistant A itan t- General. CHARLESTOWN, & ptcmbcr 2, 186410 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRAINT: I am satisfied that no troops have yet gone from this Valley. On the 29th Averell drew out Bodes corps. On the 28th Men-itt drew out Breckinridges corps. Yesterday the cavalry drove Fitz Lees cavalry picket in over the Jordan Springs road, Berryville pike, Millwood pike, ci-ossed the Front Royal pike, and got around nearly as far as Stras- burg pike. That no troops have left here is, up to this time, almost unquestionable. There is a report among the people that Early has been ordered back to Richmond with troops, but no troops have yet gone. Kershaw was encamped yesterday on the road from Summit Point to Winchester, near where it crosses the Opequon. Averell is over the Williamsport line, near Martinsburg, with his advance south of that place. Troops here are in front of Charlestown, covering Smith- field l)ike, Summit Point road, and Berryville pike. P.11. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CHAIILESTOWN, W. VA., & ptember 2,18646 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK: Yesterday I directed Torbert, with his cavalry, to drive in the enemys pickets on the Opequon as far as the -Front Royal pike, and to reach the Strasburg pike, if possible, for the purpose of gaining information. This was done, and, it was found that none of the enemys troops had, up to that time, left the Valley. To-day Averell attacked the enemy on the Winchester and Martinsburg pike, driving Vaughns cavalry from Bunker Hill, capturing some of his wagon train and a number of prison- ers. I have not yet received Averells official report. The enemys infantry commenced moving toward Winchester this morning. I will move to-night. P.11. SHERIDAN, ]ifajor- General Page 13 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 13 CHARLESTOWN, W. VA., September 2, 18647.30 p. in. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Official dispatch from Averell confirms my previous telegram and the capture of 20 or 25 wagons, 2 battle-flags and some prisoners. Early and his command commenced moving to-day. I have sent two divisions of cavalry to the Front Royal pike. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Charlestown, TV. Va., September 2, 18646.40 p. m. Corps and other independent commanders will have their commands in readiness to march at 4 oclock to-morrow morning. Further special instructions will be sent to them before that time. By command of Major-General Sheridan: F. C. NEWIIALL, 2VIajor and Aide-de-Cemp. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS MiDDLE MILITARY DIvISION, Charlestown, TV. Va., September 2, 1864. The command will march to-morrow morning, September 3, at 4 oclock, in the following order and following designated roads and hours: The Sixth Corps, Major-General Wright coinmandiiig, will march at 4 oclock to Clifton and there halt and await further orders. The Army of West Virginia, Brevet Major-General Crook command- ing, will march at 4 oclock on the Berryville pike to Berryville, halt there and await further orders. The Nineteenth Army Corps, Brevet Maior-General Emory command- ing, will march at 5 oclock, via the Berryville pike, to a point where the pike from Summit Point intersects it, and there halt and await farther orders. The trains of the respective corps will follow in rear of the corps and under the direction of corps commanders, who will also famish the necessary guards. The headquarters of the army will be with the Sixth Corps until it arrives at Clifton. The brigade of Colonel Lowell will be at Summit Point and cover the fords of the Opequon from the Summit Point and Winchester crossing to the crossing of the Berryville pike. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Va., September 2, 1864. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant.General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. The parties sent out yesterday on an examination of the country in our front have returned, failing t Page 14 14 OPERArIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. L(HAP. iN. discover the enemy in any considerable force, though thirty of them were seen in the vicinity of the Lewinsville stockade and pursued, but they scattered in the forest, and as it was nearly night the pursuit was abandoned. It is believed that the demonstration on our picket-line yesterday was made by two parties of between twenty and thirty men each. A small party of guerrillas was also chased to the vicinity of Germantown, but the horses of the pursuers gave out and the pur- suit was given up. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Charlestown, W. Va., September 2, 1861. [Brigadier-General MERRITT:] GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you prepare your divis- ion for immediate movement. The enemy are reported falling back. The advance of General Averell is beyond Bunker Hill toward Win- chester. Draw in your pickets and start immediately on the Berryville pike. First Division will move upon the right of the road, the Third Divisioii the left of the road, leaving the pike for artillery and trains. Your traifts have been directed to move at daylight. They are parked in rear of these headquarters. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: M. A. RENO, Captain and Chief of Staff. (Same to Brigadier-General Wilson.) GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIV., No. 1. Charlestown, W. Va., September 2, 1861. I. Division commanders will at once take the necessary steps to have the detached men on duty with the trains of their respective commands armed with carbines. Many attacks on trains could be successfully resisted by these men if properly armed. Hereafter the quartermas- ters will be held strictly responsible that these men always carry their arms when moving with their trains. II. Division commanders will at once have their inspectors, in con- junction with their brigade inspectors, make a thorough inspection of their respective commands to see that all captured animals in the hands of officers and men are branded and properly accounted for. A report will be sent to these headquarters showing the number found in each regiment. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant- Ueneral. FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS No. . } FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, September 2, 1864. The cavalry division will be in readiness to march as soon as pos- sible. The pickets of the First Brigade will be withdrawn and those of the Second Brigade assembled near the pike Page 15 CHAP. LV.) 15 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. The order of march will be as follows: first, First Brigade; second, Second Brigade; third, Reserve Brigade; fourth, wagons and led aidmals. Brigade commanders will report as soon as their brigades are ready to start. By command of Brigadier-General Merritt: A. E. DANA, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 2, 1864. (Received 11 a. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: No information since last night. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 2, 1864. (Received 7.40 p. in.) Hon. E. A. STANTON: Torberts reconnaissance shows the enemy in strong force holding the west side of Opequon Creek, extending from our extreme right to left. General Sheridan still occupies his Charlestown line. No firing heard to-day. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- Genera~ HARPERS FERRY, September 2, 186410.30 p. in. (Received 12 p. in.) Hon. EDWiN M. STANTON Secretary of War: Just received the following from General Sheridan: Early commenced moving to-day. Averell pitched into his rear guard; cap- tured 25 wagons, 2 battle-flags, and some prisoners. The movement of Torbert drew all his cavalry in that direction and gave Averell a chance. Will move to- night. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISIoN, September 2, 1864. Brigadier-General STEvENSON, Commanding District of Harper~s Ferry: The enemy are falling back toward Winchester. All our teams are ordered back to be parked inside Bolivar Heights. Averell attacked and drove Vaughns cavalry from some point north of Bunker Hill to within six miles of Winchester, when his advance was stopped by a division of infantry. Averell captured 20 wagons, 2 battle flags, a number of prisoners, and a herd of cattle. We move toward Berry- ville. Very respectfully, JAS. ~. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of S#aff Page 16 16 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rcHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, & ptember 2, 18643 a. m. Brig. Gen. W. W. AVERELL, Commanding Cavalry Divi8ion: GENERAL: Your dispatch of this evening received. General Tor. bert has just sent in a report of his operations of yesterday, which is to the effect that none of the rebel troops have left the Valley, and that the indications are that Early has been re-enforced. The general instructs me to say that he does not think that any of Earlys command have left yet for Richmond, but that he does not believe that any additional troops have been sent here. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of & aff. Brigadier-General AVERELL, CUMBERLAND, & ptember 2, 1864. ]Ilartinsburg, TV. Va.: The general is up the road this a. m. The following was received from Major-General Sheridan yesterday: mmanding di The general co - rects that you permit no trains of cars to be run over the railroad to Martinsburg without orders from these headquarters. JAS. XV. FORSYTH, Lieu tenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. C. A. FREEMAN, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, & ptember 2, 1864. (Received 8 a. in. 3d.) Geiieral AVERELL: The First and Second Divisions are moving out via Berryville to the Front Royal pike and will operate on the flank of the enemy. Rest where you are till morning and then shove them along if they are go. ing. I will move the infantry during the night. If you find the enemy move from your present front during the night let me know, as it may influence the direction of the infantry movement. Yours, truly, P.11. SHERIDAN, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS iVIIIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, AS~ptember 2, 1864. [General AVERELL]: GENERAL: Torbert moved to-night to get as far as the Front Royal pike. Lowell moved to Summit Point; the infantry will move to Berry- ville and will get there by 8 oclock to-morrow morning. Push up the Valley in the morning, communicating with me via the pike from Smith- field to Berryville. Respectfully, P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General Page 17 CE.~P. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 17 BUNKER HILL, September 2, 186410 p. m. (Via Martinsburg. Received Oakland 11.20 a. m. 3d.) Major-General KELLEY: Early retreated this morning toward Winchester. I am on his heels. I have whipped Vaughns cavalry, captured all his train which was iot burned, ~ind taken two battle-flags. He has no artillery. I have cut off Imboden. WM. W. AVEItE LL, Brigadier- General. CIJMBERLAND, September 2, 1864. Lieutenant LEONARD, Acting Assistant Quartermaster, DufflJs Div., Hancock, Md.: The stragglers and convalescents of the army in the field, about 1,400 in number, will leave here this a. m. en route to Harpers Ferry. They are without any means of carrying rations. The general wishes, if possible, that you turn over to their quartermaster sufficient teams to transport three days rations, and others will be furnished you here if required. C. A. FREEMAN, Jieatena at and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York, September 2, 1864. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: Last week General Hays, provost-marshal-general, addressed a coin- ninnication to these headqnarters, stating that he expected violent resistance to the draft, and that 10,000 good troops would be required for the prompt execution of the law in this division. He has this day reiterated these views in strong terms. August 29 General Dix addressed the Department respecting the letter of General Hays, and said: With the information in my possession, as well as from indications which have occurred under my observation, I deem it hazardous to commence the draft without a force of from 8,000 to 10,000 men. The information of General Sandford only corroborates the views of Generals Dix and Hays, who have been here a long while. Sandford does not think his troops can be relied upon to the extent that we have believed. There is no alarm heic. General Dix is at Quogue, and has been telegraphed. ~JOllN J. PECK. Major- General. NEW YORK, September 2, 1864. Hon. E. N. STANTON: The following communication has just been received: Nnw Yonx, September 2, 1804. Major-General PECK: GENERAL: I am instructed by Major-General Saridfordto inform you that he has reliable information which sati~fies him that should the order for the draft be not 2 R RVOL XLIII, PT I Page 18 18 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LV. immediately countermanded every provost-marshals office in New York will b8 sacked and burned by Monday morning, and that you will require at least 10,000 men to enforce the draft. ALEX. HAMILTON, Colonel, Division Inspector. In my opinion the information is reliable. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. ORDERS. ( HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVIsTON, & ptember 3, 1864. This command will be under arms at 4 oclock to-morrow morning. All trains and artillery will be harnessed and hitched at the same hour. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washjngtou, kSeptember 3, 18(1410.20 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have a scout just in from Gordonsville, which place he left on the 1st, day before yesl erday; reports that Early returned to Gordonsyille from iRichinond on 27th ultimo; awaited there the arrival of troops from the Valley. The advance arrived there oii the following day (28th), and were passing through when scout left, on 1st; among them were Longstreets men, some of Bills, and some of Ewells old corps. He says, in fact, that all the troops have left the Valley except 20,000, under Breckinridge, who las orders to hold time Valley as long as he can. The scout says a desperate effort is to be made to retake the Weldon road. This is the gist of his important information. It is possible you may have the same from other sources, but fearing you may not I seml(l it to-night. Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Port Buffalo, Va., September 3, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. N. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York Caralry, Comdg. Carairy Brigade. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLF MILITARY DIVISION, September 3, 18649 p. m. Brevet Major-General CROOK, Commanding Army of West Virginia: GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to say that he thinhs that by holding your present position the hue will U Page 19 CML!. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 19 too much extended, and he directs that you withdraw your command to-night or beftre daylight in the morning to this side of Berryville, coniiectiiig with i\lajoi-General Emorys left, your left extending well over the I3erryville pike and passing near the iiitersectioi~ of sai(l pike an(l tue Summit Point road. In this position the line will be short, compact, easily re-eu t~rced and oil very good ground. Very respectft~lly, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvIsIoN, Near ASummit Point Pike, September 3, 18649.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. A. T. A. TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to inform you that a strong fom ce of the enemy moved down on the Winchester and Berryville pike this evening and attacked General Crook; the evi- dent intention was to cut you off. They were repulsed by General Crook. The major-general commaudin~ directs that on the receipt of this dispatch you come in with yonr command. You will not lose any time in making this move. If you can get into Berryville before daylight come in on the road that you moved out on, watching well time Miliwood pike as the enemy may attempt to cut you off. If you cannot reach Berryville before daylight, you umst come in to the east of that I)lace, and will connect with the left of General Crooks com- mand. You will find General Sheridan at or near Berryville. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Millwood, Va., September 3, 18649.30 p. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Caralry: GENERAL: Colonel Be~jamin, of the Eighth New York Cavalry, has just returned from a reconnaissance to Nineveh. He reports that hay- ing arrived at that place he went with the main body of his regiment toward Newtown, sending a party towar(l Front Royal; met no force of the enemy; saw a fow mounted men, but no large bodies of the rebels, and no evidence whatever of any recent movement on their part in any direction. Abont three miles fi-oum Newtown line saw aimd conversed with a Mr. Good,wlmo had the l)iotection of General Merritt, amid called hun- self a loyal man. Mr. Good hind just come trom a visit to a friend living within omme mile of Newtown. This friend had told him there was no movement of the enemy up the Valley, aimd had beemi none, but, to time contrary, Early was still between Wiuchuester and Bnmker Hill. Colommel Bem~jammmimm says thinis view was strengtlmened iP his own mnin(l by all the evidence he could obtain bearing upomi time subject. Lieutenant Yard, of my staff; in retnrning from yonr headqnarters, saw the reflec- tion of qnite a number of camp-Pm-es in the (lirection of Winchester. Captain Beice has not returned yet. He will donmtless bring con- clusive information in megard to time enemys whereabouts. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General Page 20 20 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [C~uP. LV. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVIsIoN, Miliwood, September 3, 186410 p. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Commanding Cavalry: GENERAL: Captain Bice, Fifth New York Cavalry, has just returned from a reconnaissance toward Ncwtown. He reports that, moving on the direct road to that place, he met the enemys pickets about one mile and a half beyond the Front Royal pike, and following them up soon came upon an extensive line of rebel skirmishers extending well in toward Wrights Run and showing a strong force. He then turned southward and, leaving the direct Newtown road, succeeded in gettiug through the rebel line alone. Posting his men to wait his return, he approached the camp-fires of the reserves of the rebelhimie near Stephens- burg and listened to the conversation of some officers, by which he learned that they were acquainted with our force and expected a battle to-morrow, saying they had three divisions to our two. Captaiui Boice judged from the tenor of their conversation that at least one of the divisions alluded to is infantry. The regiment on picket was the Ninth Virginia. Captain Boice learned from the blacks that no troops had moved down the Valley pike toward Strasbnrg. The troops now about Stephensburg left Bunker Hill day before yesterday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 3, 18641.45 p. m. Brigadier-General CHAPMAN, Comm an ding Second Brigade: Detach one reghnent, with orders to make a reconnaissance of the country about Stony Point or Nineveb, particularly the road from that place to Middletown. Let it mar6h at once till it reaches the Front Royal and Winchester pike, then turn to the south. Very respectfully, ~. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, September 3, 1864~8.15 a. m. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The enemy are on the move down the Valley. Just received follow- ing from Major-General Sheridan: The enemy are fa11in~ back toward Winchester. All our trains are ordered back, to be parked at or inside of Bolivar Heights. Av-erell attacked and drove Vaughns cavalry from some point north of Bunker Hill to ~vithin six miles of Wiuchesterr when his advance was stopped by a division of infantry. Averell captured 20 wagons, 2 hattIe-flags, a unraber of prisoners, and a herd of cattle. We move toward Berryvilie. General Sheridan moved with his whole army last night in pursuit. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier-General Page 21 Cn~v. LT.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 21 HDQRS. MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Perry, September 3, 18649.30 p. m. (Received 9.50 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: At 12 oclock to-day the Sixth Corps had advanced as far as Clifton, firing heing heard at intervals until about noon, when it ceased. This evening about dusk very heavy cannonading hear(l in (tirectioll of Berryville. co~tinuing for a couple of hours, and finally ceasing a~out 8 oclock. 1Aiieu first heard it sounded very distant, l)llt continued approaching until it seemed to be in the neighborhood and east of Cliarlestown. To night we cait plainly see cainp-hres in the neighbor- hood of Charlestown. I have seiit a cavalry force to Cliarlestown to-night. My couriers to the front were driven back this side of Charlestown, supposed to be by Mosby. Shall inform you when anything occurs. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 3, 1864. Captain BIER: The following dispatch just received: CHARLESTON, Sepleniber 3, 126410 p. m. Captain BOTSFORD, As8istant Adjutant-General: A force of rebels, estiruakwl 500 strong, are reported on Cotton Mountain. This force is insignificant at any other time than now. I cannot bring more than 200 against them. I would suo-~est that if troops can be sent, at least two regiiiients of iiifantry shonid be sent to this valley. My force is the Seventh West Virginia Cavalry, employed guarding the entire line. J. C. SULLIVAN, Brigadier-General, Commanding. W. I. MATHEWS, Captain and Acting Assistant A djutant- General. NEW YORK, September 3, 1864. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Collector Barney reports that his detectives have discovered a plot of the Confederate pirates to captnre six Long Island Sound passenger steamers. The steamer Electric Spark is in an inlet about 150 miles west of Saint Johns, Newfoundland, and will soon be in the sound. There are also two blockade steamers being fitted at Halifax. J. J. PECK, Major- General. WAShINGTON, D. C., September 4, 186412 noon. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: A scout from Gordonsville says that Early was at that place on the. 27th on his way from Richmond to withdraw a part of his forces from the Valley to assist in recapturing the Weldon road. H. W. HALLECK, Major. General and Chief of Staff Page 22 2~2 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. renA?. LV. CITY POINT, September 4. 18G41O a. rn. (Regeived 12 in.) Major-General SHElUPAN, Charie8town, Va.: Jn clearing out the arms-bearing community of Loudoun County, and the subsistence for armies, exercise your own jndgmneiit. as to who ShOul(l be exelnl)t from arrest, and as to who should receive pay for their stock, grain, & c. It is our interest that that conitty slloul(l not be capable of subsisting a hostile army, and at the same time we want to inflict as little hardship upon Union men as possible. U. S. GRANT. Lieutenant General. CLIFTON. NEAR BERRYVILLE, VA., September 4, 18648 p. in. General H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Yesterday eveniag, .just before dark, Kershaws division attacked Crook on the Berryville pike, and was handsomely repulsed, with a loss of 54) prisoners ali(l over 2(40 killed and wounded. To-day has been sl)ent on both sides without any results. The indications look to an engagement to-morrow. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CIRCULAR. IIEADQUA~ThRS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 4, 1864. This entire command will be under arms promptly at 4 oclock to- morrow morning. Artillery and trains will be harnessed and hitched. An exact compliance with this order is required. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., September 4, 186410 a. in. Major-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division, Charlestown, W. Va.: A scout of mine came in last night from Gordonsville, which place he left the 1st instant. Earlys trool)s commenced passing through that place on their return to Richmond on the 28th ultimo, and were still passing through whemi he left. He says that Early was at Gordousrille, and that all his force, except 20,090, nnder Breckinridge, are to retnrn to iRichinond. .Breckimmri4l~e has orders to hold the Valley as long as he can. The rebels are to make a (lesperate attempt to recover the Weldon road. I regard this ilitormat1o)ll as reliable. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General Page 23 CHAP. L2 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 23 SPECIAL IIDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGT ON No. 220. TWENTY-$ECOYD ARMY CORPS, ORDERS, & ptember 4, 1864. 1. In pursuance of instructions from the War Department, Cob M. N. Wisewell, Military Governor of Washington, will select, without delay, three reginients Veteran Reserve Corps from those now on (lilty in tins city for detached service. One regiment will proceed to Elmira, N. Y., and report for duty to Brigadier-General Diven, commanding, and the other two toAlbany, N.Y.,to report to Brigadier General Robinson, coin- manding, or, in his absence, to Lient. Col. F. Townsend, acting assistant provost-rn arsh al-general. Tli e regiments will carry three days cooked rations and forty rounds of ammunition. 2. Brig. Gen. A. P. Howe, inspector of artillery, will prepare at once six guiis for detached service; one battery of four guns to report for duty to Brigadier-General Robinson, coinnianding at Albany, N. Y., or, in his absence to Licut. Col. F. Townsend, acting assistant provost. marshal-general, and the section of two guns to Brigadier-General Divemi, commall(ling at Elmira, N. Y. 3. These troops must be placed en route this p. m * * * * * * By command of Major-General Augur: J. H. TAYLOR, Chief oJ St/f and Ass ista at tdjtttant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY l3RIc~ADE, A ear Fort i3aJJalo, Va., Sptemnber 4, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing ot iml)ortance to report from this vicinity. One hundred men of the Six- teenth New York Voluiiteer Cavalry from this (amp are still at Annan- d-.le, as the work there is not yet complete to I)ut the stockade in a defensive state. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York Cavalry, Corn dg. Ca rairy Brigade. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MiLITARY DIVISION, kSeptember 4, 1834. Brevet Major-General CROOK, Commanding Army of West Virginia GENERAL: I am directed by the major- general commanding to inform you that we have prisoners from Rodes and other (livisions, an(L there is iio (Ioubt whatever but that the whole of Earlys force is now in our jmnniediate front and they extend well over to our right. General Sheridan desires particularly to see you; if you are not too tired, wishes you to come over to our headquarters this evening. - Very lespectfully, JAS. ~. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Cob 11(1 a u(l Oh ief of staff Page 24 24 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CnAP LV~ ORDERS.] HDQRS. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Berryrille, Th., September 4, 1864. Under instructions from the major-general commanding, this com- mand will be under arms at 4 a. m. Artillery and trains will be har- nessed and hitched. A strict compliance with this order is required. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: M. A. 1~NO, Captain and Chief of Staff. HEADQITARTER s CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY I)LVIsIoN, Near Berryrilie, La., September 4, 1864. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Commanding First Dirision: GENERAL: Move the balance of your command at daylight in the morning to Summit Point, joining with the other part of the division in that vicinity. Take up a line connecting with the right of the Sixth Corps and running diagonally (to the right) toward the Opequon. Move from your present position so as not to be seen by the en2my, if possible coming by these headquarters, to the Berryville and Charles- town pike, striking it in rear of the intersection with the Summit Point pike- then turn to the left at the first practicable point and go across the country in rear of the infantry line to the Summit Point pike. The least possible nunber of wagons will be taken. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: M. A. HENO, Captain and Chief oj Staff. IIEADQITARTEES CAVALRY, MII)DLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near White Post, kVptember 4 18 [General J. I-I. WILSON:J 64. GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs me to inclose the accom- panying dispatch* from General Sheridan, also to direct that you with- draw your pickets and move back on the river road in the direction of Snickers Ferry. The trains of ~he First Division will be sent to Mill. wood, by the lNlillwood and Winchester pike; look out for them, and march them with your train. Move your train in front of your division, closely wmmtcliing the left flank. Move as rapidly as possible after the First Division train joins you. The First l)ivision may have to move back by i\i illwood. Very respectfully, M. A. I~ENO, Captain and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Berryrille, 1, September 4, 1864. Brigadier-General WILSON, Commanding Third Dirision: GENERAL: General Merritt moves with his command at daylight in the morning to Summit Point, on the right of the army. Very respectfully, M. A. HENO, _____________________________________ Captain and Chief of_Staff.__ Not found as an inclosur& ; but see Forsyth to Torbert, September 3, 9.30 p. m, p. 1 Page 25 CRAP. TX] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 4, 18645.20 a. m. The command will move at once in the following order: first, trains to be started with the least 1)OS5iblC (lelay, one regiment of Mcintoshs brigade in their front; second, Mcintoshs brigade, Fitz- hughs battery; third, Chapmans brigade, Peni un gtous battery. Pickets should be called in at once. The regiment at White Post has been relieved by General Torbert, but an officer should be sent back to direct its march. The line of march will be toward Snickers Gap by the first road to the right. J. H. WILSON, Briqadier- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 4, 186411.30. The command will be saddled and harnessed at 4 a. m. to-morrow. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 4, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel PURINGTON, Commanding Second Ohio Cavalry: (Through General McIntosh, coin in ai diii g brigade.) COLONEL: You will guard the train with your regiment and the Second New York Cavalry. The train will go iiito park in its present location, awaiting orders. You will l)icket all roads in your neighbor- hood and keep your men from straggling from the command. By coinniand of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBEIRT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA.. September 4, 19649 a. m. (Received p.45 a. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary 9f War: Cavalry scout return ed; reports that Major-General Crooks corps, whilst going into camp beyond Bei-ryville, was attacked by Early in strong force; forming his lines, he repelled tIme attack, and duriimg the night fell back a short distance to a new po5itiolI, w-heue the tighmtiiug was resumed this morning. A ti-am of wounded just arrived finin front. No particulars obtaiiiecl from them. r111e reflection of camp- fires seen last iiight proved to be front our camps beyond Clmarlestown. .J~O. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 26 26 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. f C~. LV. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY 1)IVISION, Near Berryville, September 4, 1864. BrigadierGeneral AVERELL, Coni ma nding Cavalry Division GENERAL: Your scout with dispateh,* dated 3 p.m. September 3, just received. The general commall(lillg (lirects that you 1101(1 the roads in front ot Darkesville. The eiiemy attacked Crook~ strongly at Berry- yule last night, and we~e repulsed badly; we captured over 100 prisoners; night is all that saved them. They came down for the purpose of cutting Torbert off at Berryville. Torbert will be back this morniii g. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. P. 5.The general desires frequent reports. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel. [SEPTEMBER 4, 1864.For Sheridan to Averell, ordering the latter to cover Smithfield road, & c., see Part I, p. 504.] GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQus. 2D CAY. DIV., DEPT. OF W. VA., No. 28. Bunker Hill, September 4, 1864. I. The general coinmandin g has learned that nearly 300 men of this command have becit seiit to I\lartinsbnrg and have straggled from tile command within the last two (lays. Hereafter no man whatever will be allowed to leave tile command for any reason whatever, nuless the imsses are couiitersigned at Ihese headquarters. Brigade coin- man(lers will be held responsible that there are no stragglers from their commands. Surgeons ~vill not send men to the rear unless they are allowed to do so l)y tile acting medical director of the division. This order will be read to each regiment at once. By order of Brigadier-General Averehl: WILL RIITMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF WEST VIRGINIA, Berryville, September 4, 1864. Brigadier-General SULLIVAN: General Duffi~ will send one regimeiit to you at once. You will un- me(liately concentrate your forces and fight time enemy in your front. Order up time convalescemits from Galhipolis. By command of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. G. BIER, Assistant A ~jut ant- General. Not found Page 27 CHAP LV.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-~UMON. 27 SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS, No. 31. Cumberland, Md., September 4, 1864. * * * * * IV. Capt. L. Peirpoint, Company E, Sixth West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, is hereby relieved from duty as provost-marshal and corn- niandatit of this post, ali(I will proceed to Wheeling, XV. Va with the enlisted men of his company whose term of service has expired and w ho have not reenlisted, for the l)UIPO5C of being mustered out of service. The quartermasters department will furiiish the necessary transl)ortation. Lu relieving Captain Peirpoint from this position, the general commanding takes pleasure in acknowledging the prompt and efficient manner in which he performed the duties devolving upon him. By order of Brevet Major-General Kelley: C. A. FREEMAN, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. NEW CREEK, September 4, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY: SIR: I have the honor to report that I have visited the blockade of roads with Captain Coffey, leading from Knobly to Black Oak Bottom. The captain and myself have agree(1 that they are ellectual, and that no cavalry can get to Black Oak between Ne~v Cieek and the Widow Pnhnans, near Riwlings Station. We followed the mountain on each si(le. and it is blockaded on each side. You can rely on this as positive as if von had seen it yourself; and I will add that II would be respon- sible foi any cavalry to get over, for I had to dismount and leave my own horse to get up to it in Bakers Gap, and also NeePs Gap. I am, with much respect, your obedient servant, JYG. F. ROY. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 5, 18643.15 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN: I notice in your last dispatch that Breckinridge~s divisioii has disappeared from your front. You will see by the accompanying tele- gram* from Goverimor Brough that lie was to be at Lewisburg about this time. The iiinatter should receive your attention, for if he has gone west there is not adequate preparation. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. NEAR BERRYVILLE, VA., September 5, 186411 p. rn. (Received 1~ m. 6th.) Major-General HALLECK: In my dispatch of yesterday I snpposed that an engagement wonld ~i onably take place today, but the enemy withdrew (lurilig the night to the west side of the Opequon. I have not beeix able to verit~ the reports that any l)ortioIi of the rebel trOOl)5 in the Valley have as yet heft for Richinoimd. Yesterday and to-day I have had prisoners from See Brougli to Stanton, August 30, Part I, p. 969 Page 28 0PET~ATTON5 IN N. VA.. W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CliAV. IX. Earlys corps, Kershaws division, and from Fitzhugh Lees cavalry. I have had 110 prisoners from Breckinridges corps for three days, but have had other infrwmatiou from prisoners, from scouts who have been to Winchester, and from my cavalry, who have been to the Front Royal and Strasburg pike, that as yet no rebel troops have gone toward iRichinond. 1\ly estimate of Earlys force is about 27,000 inflintry. Captain Blazers company of mounted. men, of General Crooks command, had a fight with Mosby yesterday. Killed 2 officers and 11 men, and cal)tured 6 men; also a number of horses and equip- ments. Our cavalry captured 1 officer and 3 melt. The enemys loss, in their attack on General Crook yesterday, was greater than I first reported. They left a number of their dead unburied. P. H. SHERIDAN. WASHINGTON, September 5, 18642.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: The information contained in dispatch of 29th ultimo was obtained by the scouts from an agent named Cammack, an old man who lives near Orange Court-House. Scouts in this morning, who derive their information from same source, report following: No troops have passed to or from the Valley since Fitzhugh Lees cavalry went up. Force of infantry now there is Ewells old corps, Breckinridges division, and Andersons brigade of Fields (livision. Have been steadily falling back of late, but no signs of their leaving the Valley. This information is to the 3d instant, and Mr. Babcock, who has charge of scouts, thinks it reliable. GEO. K. LEET, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. (The quoted portion of dispatch transmitted by Leet to Sheridan, same date.) SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 294. 5 Washington, September 8, 1864. * * * * * * * 18. Brig. Gen. J. A. J. Lightburn, U. S. Volunteers, now disabled by a wound, is hereby relieved from duty with the Fifteenth Army Corps, and will, on his recovery, report in person, without delay, to the commandiug general Department of West Virginia, for assignment to duty. * * * * * * * By order of The Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR. I HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 5, 1864. This entire command will be under arms promptly at 4 to-morrow morning. Artillery aII(l trains will be harnessed and hitched. An exact compliance with this order is required. By command of Major-General Sheridaii: C. KINGSBURY, Ju., A83istant Adjutant- Genera Page 29 Oaii~ LV.] CORIIESPONDENCE, ETC.tINION. 29 CITY POINT, VA., September 5, 18649 p. m. (Received 1.20 p. m. 6th.) Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR: For some time back bounty and substitute men have been (leserting to the eiiemy imniediately on their arrival here to take advantage of Coopers General Orders, No. 65, promising to send such persons through the enemys lines at the nearest 1)oint to their homes. Rich- mond papers of today aniounce that they now have several hundred such deserters who are to be sent off. I think the route that will be takeii by niany of them will be to cross the bay into Accomac or else the Potomac above Point Lookout. I wish you would have a close lookout kept for them, and send all you get back here for trial. U. S. GRANT. Lieutenan t- General. NEAR BERRYVILLE, September 5, 186410 p. ut. (Received I p. m. 6th.) Major.Geiieral AUGUR, Commanding Department of Washington Your telegram of yesterday received. I have had scouts at Win- chester; have had cavalry on the Front Royal l)ike and scouting parties as far as the Strasburg pike. The result of their operations and all the information that they have been able to obtain is to the effect that no troops have left the Valley. Within the last two days have captured prisoners from Earlys corps, Fitz Lees cavalry, and I{ershaws division, to the number of between 60 and 70; they know of no troops having left. Breckinridge and Early were at Kershaws headquarters this morning, on the Berryville pike, this side of the crossing of the Opequon Creek. It is Possible that troops have left; but if so, I have no tangible evidence of it. P. II. SHERiDAN, Major. General. NEAR BERRYVILLE, VA., September 5, 186410 p. ns. (Received 10.30 a. m. 6th.) Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR, Comman cling Department of Washington: I have the hono.r to tramismit to you a copy of dispatch received troni Lieutenant-General Grant in reference to the course to be l)ursued in clearino- out Loudoun Connty.* I request that you use your own goo(l judgment in the execution of the original oider, which was traiis- mit ted with the mo(lification as set forth in the dispatch now forwarded and one other lmemetoPwe sent you. I think it best to clean out that section of country, leaving a bare subsistence to those who are un(loubtedly Union, and paying fbr what may bc destroyed belonging to such Union people. ~ ~ M~or- General. * See September 4, p. 22 Page 30 30 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. C~. LV. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CoRPS, September 5, 1864. Col. J. II. KITCHING, (Jo mmanding flardins Division: COLONEL: The im~jor-gei~era1 commanding directs that yon relieve the lirst Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps from duty iii your (liviSiOll and direct it to report to (Jul. M. N. Wisewell, Military Governor of Wasliiiigton. You ~vill make such clispositioii of theremainiig troops as ~vi1l best cover the interval left by the ~vithdrawal of this regiment. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant A~jutant- General. MUDDY BRANCH. September 5, 1864. (Received 7 p. in.) Maj. C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General Major Ludhiim goes up the river to-night with one bat alion. He will cross in the morning and enter Loudoun, V a., by way of Leesburg. JNO. M. WAITE, Major, die. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Port Buffalo, Va., September 5, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the hoiior to int~rm you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. A scout of thirty men is sent out this evening for the urpose of examining the country in the vicinity of Vienna and Fairfax Court-House. it is believed, from inforinatiou received, that a considerable number of Mosbys men find refuge iu those vicinities among citizeiis almost constantly. Very respectfully, your obedieut servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Berryvillc, September 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM DWIGHT, Commanding First Division: GENEnAL: On visiting your lines this morning the general coin- manding could not find a general officer. After search, Lieutenant- Colonel Van Petten, One hundred and sixtieth New York, the officer of the day of that division, was found. He reports that he reported to you early this morning that lie had heard the bugles of the enemy and movement of their wagons during the night. The general commnaid- ing desimes to know why this very important information, indicating a movement of the enemy, was not reported to him. I am, sir, & c., DUNCAN S. WALKER Assistant Adjutant- General Page 31 CnA~. LV.3 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 31 IIDQRS. FIRST DIvIsIoN, NINETEENTH ARMY Conps, In the Field, Va., September 5, 1864. Maj. DUNCAN S. WALKER, Asst. Adjt. Gem, Detachment Nineteenth Army Corps: MAJOR: In answer to your comniiuiicatiou dated this a. in. request- ing information I have the honor to reply: The time at which general officers from this (livision visited the lines extended to a period subsequent to the time at which everything on our front was reported qniet. Staff officers from these headquarters were on the line continually from ~ a. in. until long after daylight. Lieu- tenant-Colonel Vaui Petten, officer of the day, reported to me at 8.30 oclock this a. in., or some time thereafter, ~1iat he had heard the bugle calls of the enemy and the nioveirient of their wagons. This inforina- tion was not given me at an early hour this a. 111. Withiii fifteen miii- utes alter receiving this information I was officially intorined that the cotnmandiiig general was at the front and dcbed to see iiie. I had itot time to officially report the information received fioni the officer of the day. I am, sir, very r~spectful1y, your obedient servant, WILLIAM DWIGHT, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DivIsIoN, in the Field, September 5, 18641 p. m. General W. MERRITT, Commanding First Division GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you drive in (across the Opequon) the l)ickets of the enemy north of the Winchester and Potomac Railroad, with a view to shortening the coinmunic tions with General Averell. He desi;es that you effect this with whatever force may be necessary, but iiot to engage infantry. I am, general, very respectfully, M. A. ItENO, Captain and Chief of Staff. IIEADQUA1~TER5 THiRD CAVALRY DIvIsIoN, Near Berryrille, September 5, 18649 a. m. Capt. M. A. RENO, Chief of S[afr: I have investigated the matter of the stampede in the wagon train yesterday and find the facts to be as follows: The traiii had been Parked properly and the gnards posted in the most advantageous manner, when doctors, ambulance men, and others from General Crooks ambulance train, then a mile and a half nearer Kabletown, dashed into the park of our train with the report that Mosby had takemi their train or atta(ked it. This spread through our train and before anything could be (lone the whole thing was iu confusion. -It was, however, promptly ~uppressed and without com- municating it in any way to the troops. Captain Hull, corn Inan(ling Second New York, was prompt and vigorous; went to the assistance of General Crooks train and rescued five ambulances. Two wagons an Page 32 32 OPERATIO~S IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. three ambulances are there yet deserted. The affair was disgraceful, but not to the troops or officers in charge of the train, they having done all in their power to correct the evil. The two men who captured the mules of Mrs. McGuire are not to be Ibund; the provost guard have their names and are on -their track, with orders to go to 1-larpers Ferry, if necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISiON. Near Berryville, September 5, 18649.05 a. in. Captain RENO, Chief of Staff: A negro who has just come in from Berryville says no force of the enemy in the towmi this morning, except five men. Soldiers told him that Early came down the pike to within a mile yesterday of the town and then turned off to the north. Knows nothing of force. Very respectfu1~y, your obedient servant, J. II. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVIsIoN, Lewis Place, September 5, 186112 m. Capt. M. A. RENO, Chief of Staff: General McIntosh has just sent a squadron through Berryville and reports no force in time town, though a line of ~-ebel skirmishers could be seen acro~~ the Winchester pike, and along the first ridge beyond. Learned nothing of importance further than the above. Very respectfully, your obedient servaiit, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. Commanding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Near Berryvilie, September 5, 18643 p. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief (~/ Cavalry: General McIntosh reports his picket-line extended a mile from Berry. ville toward Winchester and connecting with a small force on the Mill- woo(l road. No cavalry was seen except a very small party on the Mihiwood road. It was reported to the general that the enemy were falling back to their line of battle, supposed to be a division of infantry, and that they intended to stop somewhere on the Limestone Ridge. McIntosh has two battalions n the Winchester pike, one on the Mill- wood. Chapman is instructed to connect his vedette line with that of First Brigade. J. H. WILSON, Brigadier-General Page 33 (Aur. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 33 SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. THIRD CAVALRY DIvIsIoN, No. 85. S~ptember 5, 1864. I. Capt. T. A. Boice, Fifth New York Cavalry, is hereby detailed for special duty and will report at these headquarters at once. 2. Brigade commanders ~vill send in the names of five of the most daring and enterprising men in each regiment of their commands, to be hut un(ler charge of Captain Boice for special duty. These men will be selected with care and only such will be recommended as are sure to be a credit to their regiment and the division in every particular. The immediate attention of brigade conunanders is invited to this matter. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT. Assistltat A (Ij ut tint- Geneva I HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY I)LVISlON, & pternber 5, 1864. Brigadier.General MCINTOSH: GENERAL: In accordance with orders received from General Torbert, you will proceed with your brigade, at daylight to-morrow morning, toward Winchester for the purpose of obtaining infbrmation regarding the enemys movements. Reconnaissances sent out in front of Generals Crook and Merritt to-day report no enemy. Push your observations as far as it is safe to trust your command. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: E. B. BEAUMONT, Captain and A ide- de- Camp, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, Septentber 5, 18648.30 a. m. (Received 9 a. in.) Hon. E. Xl. STANTON, Secretary of War: There was considerable skirmishing along the lines at intervals yes- terday, but nothing of any magnitude. All ambulance train was attacked between Charlestown and Berryville, and most of it captured. Tile indications are that there will be a general engagement this even- ing or in the morning. Our forces are on a line about two miles this side of Berryville, the enemy in their front. Shall report from time to time anythimig of importance that occurs. Respectfully, .JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, 8epteinber 5, 18649 p. rn. (Received 9.10 p. in.) Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: Heard from front this evening. No change in position of the armies; they still cmnfront each other. General Sheridan looks upon a general engagement as l)robable at any moment. The 6aptures of ambulances 3 R RVOL XLIII~ PT I Page 34 34 OPERATiONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (O~AP. LV. did not exceed thirty in number. Part of General Crooks command fell npou Mosby as he retreated; killed ami wounded a lliInl)er of his men, got live i)risouers, iiicluding a lieutenant, and about forty horses. We are having a heavy and continuous rain. Respectfnlly, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION,- summit Point Pike, September 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. D. STEVENSON, Commanding District of Harpers Ferry: GENERAL: You will detaA a strong guard to accompany the supply train for this army froiii Harpers Ferry. rfhe guard will accompany the train as far as Charlestowi, Va, where they will be relieved by a brigade of cavalry, and return to Harpers Ferry. The commanding officer of the guard xviii be held strictly responsible for the safety of the train. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Berryville, September 5, 186411 p. m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding District of Harpers Ferry: GENERAL: The major-general coiimntandiug directs that you have the railiond repaire(l at once through to Martiusburg (froiii harpers Ferry). General Torbert reports that the railroad bridge over the Opequon Creek is iiot destroyed. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 5, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding harpers Ferry: GENERAL: Will you be kind enough to send with the bearer any men you know of at Harpers Ferry of General Greggs (livision of cavalry to Washington, D. C., to join their commands in the Army of the Potomac? A. T. A. TORBERT, Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Chief of Cavalry. SPECIAL ORDERS, HD QRS. DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, iNo. 162. Near Berryville, Va., September 5, 1864. * * * * * * 4. The Second Maryland Eastern Shore Volunteer Infantry will pro. ceed to Harpers Ferry, W. Va., when the supply train for this corn Page 35 Quip. LV.] OQIUtESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. mand expected here this evening from Bolivar Heights returns, as a guar(l for the same. Upoii their arrival here the commanding officer ~vill report to Brig. Gen. John D. Stevenson, commanding Military Dis- trict of Harpers Ferry, and will at once take measures to collect together the men of his regiment. * * * * * [iv order of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. FiRST CAVALR~T DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST ViRGINIA) No. 19. (Jamberland, lid., & ptember 5, 1864. The First Brigade of this division is hereby temporarily discontin- ued. The Twenty-first New York Cavalry and the First New York Veteran Cavalry will make separate reports to these headquarters. By command of Brigadier-General Duffi6: E. W. CLARK, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS,? HDQRS. FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, No. 44. ) (Jamberland, lid., ASeptember 5, 1864. I. Col. R. F. Tayloi~, First New York Veteran Cavalry, will take coin- maid ot Ins regiiiient all(l proceed to Charleston, W. Va. Upon arrival at that place he will report to Brio-adier-General Sullivan for duty temporarily. He will proceed by rail to Parkersburg, thence by boat to Charleston. Colonel Taylor will send regularly to these headquarters tn-monthly and monthly returns; the tn-monthly will be forwarded on the 9th, 19th, and 29th of each month. Quartermasters will furnish all transportation necessary for his command. * * * * * * * By command of Brigadier-General Duffi~: E. W. CLARK, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, September 5, 1864. Major GIBSON, Acting Assistant Inspector- General: MAJOR: The general desires me to say that he has ordered that no maim shall go to the rear without a pass from division headquarters. You will therefore arrest all men of this command who may come to your camp without such pass, and take measures to have them pun- ished. The horses sent here~vith, and all horses sent back as unservice- able, will be kept in the l)ossession of the division headquarters if they can be recuperated within temi days; if not, they will be turned over to the post quartermaster. We advance within an hour to try the enemy again. Respectfully, WILL RUMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 36 36 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND P~. [Ow. LV. MARTINSBURG, September 5, 1864. (Received 2.3() p. in.) Major-General KELLEY: I am now within eight miles of Winchester, and skirmishing. The enemy is obstinate. I have the Valley covered from the Opeqnon to North Mountain, and have asked General SlIeri(lau at berryville to peritit cars to come to 1\lartinsbnrg. My horses are sufl~ring for forage. Please send (lown a train with 100,COO pounds of fbrage at once; it Will help me a great deal. Answer. WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. CUMBERLAND, September 5, 1864 ~p m. Brigadier-General AVERELL, Martiasbury: General Sheridans order was imperative; nevertheless, I will take the responsibility to send time train. Your command must be supplied. Trains will leave here at 5 p. m. and arrive imear to Martinsbnrg at abont 11 p. in. Have a force rea(ly to unload the cars at once. Do not wish the train to remain longer than necessary to unload. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CUMBERLAND, September 5, 18(142 p. in. WILLIAM P. SMITH, Esq., Camden Station: I telegraphed General Sheridan this a. in. asking if I should send down the construction train, which is here ready. Have had 110 reply yet. Would it not be well for you to send a mnesseimge m to the general trom Harpers Ferry, as I cannot communicate with him from this sid& ? B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CITY POINT, September 6, 18649.30 p. in. (Received 8 a. in. 7th.) Major-General SHERIDAN, Near Berryville: ~romn reports of deserters coining in at (lifferent times an(l on differ- emit parts of lines, we learn that Kershaws division arrived in Peters- burg last iiight. I think there is no doubt but some troops have arrived from the Valley. U. S. GRANT Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 6, 1864. Major-General SHERIDAN: The disappearance of Breckinridge from your front gives weight to the rumor on the 30th ultimno that lie wa~s expected in the Kanawha Valley in about ten (lays. If you (10 not ~~ropose engaging the enemy immediately, that valley should be looked to. H. W. HALLECK, Jfajor- General and Chief of Staff Page 37 ONAP. LYl CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 37 HnQus. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 6, 1864. General BARNES, Commanding at Point Lookout: Lieutenant Hookers letter received.~ What iml)ortance (10 you at- tach to its statements? What is the character of the boats to ~vhich lie refers~ C. C. AUGUR, iih(jor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 6, 1864. Maj. Geri. GEORGE CROOK, Commanding at Department of West Virginia: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you furnish one regiment for the protection of the trains now being collected at a point about one mile and a quarter in rear of your headquarters on the Berryville pike. When the traiiis move to Charlestown, the regiment will accompany and remain with them. The regiment will draw its rations from Harpers Ferry. Very respeetfilily, general, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September u, 18646.45 a. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you send a regiment of cavalry, on the receipt of this communication, out on the Berryville and Winchester pike to the crossing of the Opequon Creek. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. [Inclorsement.] Respectfully referred to Brigadier-General Wilson, who will send the regiment as required. M. A. RENO, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Berryrilie, Va., September 6, 18648 p. m. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The (Ilief of cavalry directs that you l)roceed at 5.30 oclock in the mom-ning with the Resci-ve and Second Brigades of the First Division to the crossing of the Millwood and Winchester pike Not found Page 38 38 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. rciw~. L~. by the Opequon Creek. The march will be across CoUntry Ill front of the infantry line, and cross the Berryville and Winchester pike about one mile froni the Opequon Creek. Brigadiei-Geiieral Custer, with the First and Colonel Lowells brigades, will remain on the right for the present. General Merritt will instruct him to l)PC55 into the crossings of the Opequon and secure all the fords from Jordan Springs to the railroad and watch well the Smithfield Crossing. l)einoimstrations will be made on the enemy at different points by time force (ii time right. He further directs that yon detail one regiment from the force left on the right to escort the trains to Harpers Ferry, which start at 5 a. m. The commanding officer of this regiment will report immediately in person at army head quarters for instructions. The infaiitry will advance to-morrow morning to the line of the ()pequon. Captain Martindale will report to you at 5 oclock to-morrow immoining. Instruct Genecal Custer to notify the T)iCk(~t5 on the right that army headquarters will be on the Berryville and Winchester pike, in order that any staff officer from General Averell can he informed. I am, general, very respectfully, M. A. ItENO, Captain and Chief of $taff. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY~ MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION ATe r Berryvilie, Va., September 6, 1864. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Comm an ding First Division: GENERAL: Captain Ransoms battery having been relieved to be sent to Harpers Ferry to be refitted, the chief of cavalry directs that Taylors battery be assigne(l to General Custers brigade for the present in its stead, if necessary. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant. General. IIDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE. FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION September 6, 18644.30 p. m. Capt. A. E. DANA, Assistant Adjutant-General, First Cavalry Division: CAPTAIN: In obedience to orders from division headquarters I sent a squadron of the Seventeenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, umider Captain Ham, on 1-econnaissance to Brueetowmi and toward Winchester. Cap. tam Ham has just sent back a trooper with the statement that he encountered a party of the enemy about Imalf a mile of the Opequon River on the Brucetown road (this side). The force of the enemy was too strong for Captain Ham to attack (I presume a strong l)icket). I have ordered another squadron to go to Captain Hams snl)port with instruction to drive them across the river, if possible. I expect another dispatch soon. Yours, very respectfully, G. S. NICHOLS, Lieutencn t- Colonel, Commanding Second Brigade Page 39 Ca& r. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 39 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY MIDDLE MILITARY Divisior~, Near Berryrille, Va., September 6, 1864. Brigadier-General WILSON, Commanding Third Division GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you make a strong reconnaissance with your division on the left of the army, in the direc- tion indicated in orders issued last night. The infantry line advances this morning to the Opequon Creek. Very respectfully, M. A. ItENO, Captain and Chif of Staffi Watch well the crossings of the Opequon between the two pikes to Winchester, from Berryville and Miliwood. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Near Berryville. September 6 186412.30 p. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: General McIntosh reports that the regiment sent out from his brigade toward the Opequon had reached that stream, finding only a small picket force at the Limestone Ridge, and a similar one l)eyon(l the creek. The regiment xvi Ii odnpy the l)OSitioIi on Limestone Ridge till further or(lers. I will obtain detailed information of the reconnaissance and report in 1)erson. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 6, 18647.30 p. in. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry: The regiment which was at the Opequon has been relieved by the Third New Jersey, and the 01(1 picket-line, held when we were here befiwe, is i-c-established. I shall order the regiment back, it having been relieved xvi thout authority. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. ORDERS.J HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 6, 1861. The command will move at 5.30 a. m. to-morrow by the Berryville and Millwood pike in the following order: Second Brigade, with Pen- gtom is battery, anibula ices, am 1(1 an ~mn ni mition train; First Brigade. The regiment doing picket dim y about Berryville will be assembled at the reserve post on the Winchester pike and march through the cou Page 40 40 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. try parallel to the Opequon, joining the (livision on Miliwood and Win. chester pike, leaving the Berryville and Winchester pike at 6.30 a. m. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. STEBERT, Assistant A djntant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, ASeptember 6, 18648.05 p. m. General J. B. MCINTOSH, Commanding First Brigade: You will order the regiment now on l)icket on the Winchester pike to advance again, to the Limestone Ridge, or to some convenient point within a mile from the Opequon. The commnandiimg officer will be charged with esl)ecial vigilance, and will so dispose of his force as to receive timely notice of the approach of the enemy. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. P. S.The time of the execution of this order will be reported to these headquarters. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 6, 1864. (Received 8.45 p in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: Report from front as late as 4 p. mu. this evening. No change since yesterday in position of forces, with exception of cavalry changing position. No firing reported. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVIsION, [September 6, 1864.3 (Received 8.25 p. in.) General AVERELL: General Torbert sent directions this morning to hold the line of Bun- ker Hill; I think you can hold that line. The reconnoitering pai ties from Merritt were to go to Brucetown to-day; I have not yet heard from them. I will advance the infantry again to:mnorrow, and will send a large force of cavalry to the left; this will relieve you from any l)res- sure, if my deductions are correct. I have directed that the railroad be repaired to Martinsburg fi~omn Harpers Ferry, which will simplify your difficulties about forage and subsistence. The indications here this evening are that Early has gone toward Winchester. Respectfully, P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General Page 41 CHAP. L~4 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 41 HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIvIsIoN, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Bunker Bill, September 6, 18648.25 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN: GENERAL: The following dispatch has just been received from the commanding officer at Smithfield: HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIFTH NEW YORK CAVALRY, Smithfield, Va., Septembe~ [6], 1864. MAJOR: The rebels have formed a skirmish-line on my left and this side of the Opequon. following up a scouting party who were sent oat by Second Brigade of Cavalry. They have iiot yet attacked us. Yours respectfully, C. J. SEYMOUR, Major, (Jomrnendinq. WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DrYISION, September 6, 1864.9 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. W. AVERELL, Commanding Cavalry Division GENERAL: Your note* of last night received. The Ninth New York Cavalry reporte(l that they opened communication with you yesterday afternoon. Your falling back to Bunker Hill is all right; I cannot think, however, that there was a rebel division of infantry in your front. I have directed the railroad to be repaired from Harpers Ferry to Martiusburg. General Merritt is nearest to you and will be instructed to communicate. Respectfully, P. II. SHERIDAN, Major. General, Commanding. MARTINSEURG, September 6, 1864. (Received 1.25 p. in.) General KELLEY, Pa rkersburg: Yesterday General Averell ran into a heavy colnmu of rebel infantry near Winchester, and was coull)elled to fall back to Bunker Hill, where he was this a. in. Nothing further from him. Everything quiet this a. in. BREKAMAN, Operator. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 50. Chambersburg, Pa., September 6, 1864. That portion of the Department of the Susquehanna lying between the Laurel Hill range of mountains on the west, and the Williainsport * Not found Page 42 42 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LOHAP. LV. and Elmira Railroad, the Susquehaima River from Willianisport to the intersection of Blue Mountain, and that range of mountains to the Maryland hue on the east, will comprise the Juniata District. Brig. Gen. 0. S. Ferry, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the command of this district, headquarters tern l)oia1ily at Bedford, Pa. By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. CLIFTON, NEAR BERRYVILLE, September 7, 18649 a. m. (Received 4 l~. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I did not think that Breckinridge had left my front, but had not been aI)le to trace him for three (lays. Yesterday I captured prisoners from both his divisions. No troops have left this valley. P. H. ~HER1DAN, Major- General. NEAR BERRYVILLE, VA., September 7, 18649.30 a. rn. (Received 3 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chiej of St(jj, Was/i inqton: Breckinridge has not (lisappeared from my front. in my dispatch I sai(l I had not heard from hijiti fbi three (lays. Yesterday I captured prisi)IIers from both his divisions, anil within the last two days have had prisoners from every division in Eau lys auny. No troops have left this valley. It should be ieineiuilucred that it is 300 miles from here to Charleston via Lewisbnrg. This would require a march of not less than twenty days. General Crook says that for 100 miles of this distance a cricket could not subsist on the country. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major. General. GENERAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY Conps, No. 79. 5 September 7, 1864. In accordance with General Orders, No. 231, War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, Washington, August 81, 18G4, the following posts and districts are announced as separate brigades within the meaning of its provisions, viz: Time command of the military governor of Alexandria; the Military District of Washington; the District of Saint Marys; the Cavalry 1)ivision, Camp Stoneinan; and the & avalry Brigade. By command of Maj. Gen. C. C. Augur: J.. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 43 Ca& p. L~ CORRESP0NDENCE~ ETC.UNION. 43 MUDDY BRANCH, September 7, 18G4. (Received 12.45 p. in.) Maj. C. II. RAYMOND, Assistant Ae~jjutant-Gcnerai: MAJOR: One battalion of my regiment, under command of Captain Buck, left here at 8 a. in. to rei)ort to your hea(iqnarters. Respectfully, J. M. WAITE, iIfa~or, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, SeDtember 7, 1864. COMDG. OFFIcER BATTALION EIGHTH ILLINOIS CAVALRY: SIR: The major-general commanding directs ti iat you proceed with your command, with as little delay as practicable, to Port Tobacco, Md., at which i)lace you will establish yonr headquarters. It is rcported that large numbers of substitutes and bounty inemi (lesert to the enemy immediately after their arrival at the front, under the conditions exten(led in orders from the rebel War Department that they will be afforded facilities for recrossing the line and returning to their homes. A number of these l)eol)le are now at Richmond waiting opportunity to return, and it is expecte(l that they will cross the Potomac, I)robably between Piney Point and Piscataway Creek; it is desirable that none be l)elmitted to escape. Iii addition to the patrols on time river it will be well to establish a constant one from Port Tobacco to the Patuxem it, to catch those who, landimig below, atten~pt to niake their way up time pemminsiila. It is also reported that much contraband trade takes l)l~mce by means of rafts and small boats acvoss the Potomac. This must be broken up, tIme persons engaged in it arrested and forwarded, with specific charges setting forth their offenses, and the means by which it is carried on destroyed. It will be well to have a certain iiuinber of boats Pa your own operations. I inclose a statement made by a reli able man which will serve as a guide in time detection of some of the parties alluded to. Prisomm~rs should be retaimmed until they number five or more, when they can be forwarded in charge of a reliable party by vessel retnrning from delivery of stores. Comninunicate frequently by means of this vessel with these headquarters, keeping thietmi well informed of your operations. It is necessary that your l)eOple be kept in hammd, inm(l no (lepreclations upon private ~)ro~)erty will 1)0 Imermuitted; let it be understood that any person so offemiding will be severely dealt with. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Va., & ptember 7, 1864. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicimmity. A report came to camp last evening that Mosby was in our vicinity in force, but a scouting party ~Not found Page 44 44 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP LV. sent out failed to (liscover him. I have arrested Doctor Hunter, living near Vieniia, and Alexander Smith and a Mr. Moore. They have for weeks l)ast, it has been twice reported to me, entertained parties of guerrillas, and small l)arties have been often seen in the vicinity of and coming front the premises. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York Cavalry, Conuly. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Ia.~ September 7, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Ckif of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform von that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. The 10) men sent to Annan- dale from this camp to assist at the work on the stockade there have returned, and the Thirteenth Regiment New York Volunteer Cavalry will be sent out to-morrow scontilig. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth New York C1avairy, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. POINT LooKouT, September 7, 1861. (Received 1.15 p. in.) Major-General AUGUR: I know nothing more than the letter of Lie uten ant Hooker states. I have just sent out to Captain Gamm~evoort to ascertain if he has aiiy other information. He has nothing further thaii that tIme boats if brought by land from Richmond may contain forty or fifty men each. We endeavor here to be on the alert for such matters, whether the reports are reliable or noix JAMES BARNES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. POINT LOOKOUT, September 7, 1864. (Received 3 p. in.) Major.G-eneral AUGUR: Commodore Parker is preparing to capture the boats referred to in my dispatch this morning. 1-Ic wants 500 men and transportation to co-operate on land with him. I refer the matter to you, for I do not exactly see how it can be done. He wTanted them to-night, but I have promised to give him your answer by to-morrow. JAMES BARNES, Brigadier- General. Commandtng. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, September 7, 1864. Lient. Col. JAMES W. FORSYTH, Ckief of Staff: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that al)I)hication be made by the major-general commanding the Middle Military Division, to Lieate Page 45 OD~i. LV4 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 45 ant-General Grant, for the ret any to this corps of six batteries belong- ing to it which are now at City Point. Of the other six batteries be- longing to the corps, the term of service of one has just expiredmen were detailed from the infantry to keep up, with the reenlisted men and recruits of the battery, its organization, but the War Department has decided this cannot be clone; the term of service of another will soon expii e; and in case of a third, twenty-eight men belonging to a New York orgaiiization, who have for a long time been atta~hed to this battery, have been merged by orders from the War Department in the Sixth New York Battery and ordered to Wa shington. By this the efli- cielicy of the battery of this corps last referi ed to is greatly impaired, if not destroyed. I therefore consider that the return of the batteries at City Point is necessary to keep up the proper proportion of the artil- lery. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. G. WRIGHT, ift(jor- General, Commanding. IIEADQUARTER8 MIDDLE MILITARY I)IYISIoN, September 7, 1864. Major-General EMORY, Comma naing Detachment Nineteenth Corps GENERAL: The major- general commanding directs that you send a brigade up the Berryvilie J)ike as far as the Opequon for the purpose of making a reconnaissance, all our cavalry having been withdrawn from there. Very respectfully, your obedient servo ut C. KiNGSBURY, JR., Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTh ARMY CORPS, September 7, 1864. Captain WILKINSON. Judge-Advocate: Yours received. Say to Colonel Molineux we have a division of cav- alry on his left. He must look out for his right and communicate with me frequently. I will be out on the ridge occupied yesterday. The arms of tie whole command are to be discharged at 4 p. in., so do not be surprised at any firing you may hear at the camps. Very respectfully, & c., W. I-I. EMORY, Brevet Mc(jor- General, Connnanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY RESERvE BRIe~ADE, September 7, 186410 a. in. Capt. A. E. DANA, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Cavalry Division: CAPTAIN: I have reached the forks of the road, as directed by the general, and have sent parties to the fords, as instructed to do. Will report as SOOU as I hear from them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED GIBBS, Colonel, Connnanding Page 46 46 OPERATIONS IN ~. VA., w. VA., MD., AND ~A, ~ L~ IIEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Banker Hill, 8eptcmber 7. 1864. Colonel LOWELL, Commanding Brigade: COLONEL: Colonel Powell, commandin~ the Second Brigade of this division, reports that an officer of this command sent to Smithfield yesterday found all the 1)ickets asleel), together with the commanding officer. officer of the day md all at the reserve. General Averell directs me to (all your attention to this fact, as the negligence of these men endangers the left of his line. I am, colonel, very res~)ectfuily, your obedient servant, WILL 1tUMSEY, A ssistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTEPS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Four miles froni lViuchesler, on ]JJiliwood Pike September 7, 18649.45 a. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chuj t~f clavairy: GENERAL: I have crossed the Opequon with but little difficulty, meeting a l)icket force of about thirty men from the Sixth Virginia Cav- aIry. Froiii different citizens I learn that a l)art of Earlys infantry was encaml)ed a mile and a half this side of Winchester; how munch they didnt know. Another citizen says he was at Winchester yesterday and fonnd the same force at the same l)laoe. Fitz Lees cavalry and some infantry moved up the Valley pike day befo~e yesterday, fearing a Yank ra:d Li that direction but returned the same miight to Winchester. My a(lvallce brigade (Chapmans) is skirmishing slightly with the enemy a mile or so beyond here. McIntosh is yet with the train, on the Mill- wood side of tho stream. No sign of the enemy in any other direction than toward Winchester. People think that Early is slowly withdraw- ing with the intention of leavinE the Valley, though they give no real evidence npon which to base such ~nr opinion. Very respectfully, your obediem it servant, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTER S THIRD CAVALRY l)lvISIoN, Opequon Creek. on Miliwood Roa(l, September 7, 186411.35 a. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Ca ralry The first orderly sent could miot get through for guerrillas. General Chapman advanced to within two miles apd a half ofWinclmester, when he encountered the enemnys iiit~intry; what t~rce he could not ascertain, though quite a miumber of regiments. The people along tIme advance skirmnislm line could hear drums and bands this morning in and around Winclmester. About one regimnen~ of cavalry was seen. Having gomme as far as I think prudent, I shall fall back to the Stone Chapel, and await further orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. Ii. WILSON, Brigadier- Gen era l Page 47 CnAi. IN.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 47 HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, & pternber 7, 18649 p. rn. Capt. M. A. RENO, Chief of & a, Cavalry Force, Middle Military Division: CAPTAIN: The reconnaissance to Salem Chapel has returned without meeting any of the eneniys forces in that vicinity. The regiment on its return struck the Winchester and lierryville f)ike close by the Liniestone Ridge, where they found the enemys pickets, driving them off after a brict skirmish. They coul(1 notice fioin there many camp- fires in the direction of the Opcc~noii, and heard front citizens that the position of the enemys forces was the sante as befbre the recent move- meiits. Earlys headquarters are reported to l)e on the Berryville and Winchester pike a. short distance beyond the Opequon. \ cry respeethully, your obedient servant, J. 11 WIlSON Brigadier- General, Comm an ding Divtston. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., & ptember 7, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, ASecretury of War: An intelligent ofticer just from the front reports that the enemy have retired from General Sheridans front. I shall doubtless hear the facts this evening, and will promptly report. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General, & e. HARPERS FERRY, September 7, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary qf War: All reports from front confirm the retiting of the enemy. A heavy cavalry reconnaissance is being ma(le in the (lireetion of Winchester. Deserters and l)risoners report the enemy ihihing back to Fishers Hill. Nothing from General Sheridan on the sii1~jcct. JiNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 7, 1864. W. P. SMITH, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Baltimore, Md.: General Sheridan only desires road to be put in running order from here to Martinsburg. Can you do this? Answer this evening. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 48 48 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (OW. LV. BALTIMORE, MD., September 7, 1864. General JOHN D. STEVENSON: Your dispatch received. We are ready and anxious to resume repairs of road, and can reopen it to Ma.rtinsburg, we think, in four days and nights of uninterrupted work. We have had more than three years experience, however, of every character, in this business, and do not feel satisfied that the l)rotectioli is adequate, unless you can assure us that our trool)5 thoroughly 1101(1 the line in front of our road from Berryville or Charlestowii to Bniiker fill and west of it covering North Mountain and Back Creek. If this is the case, and you can generally assure us of the reasonable safety of our men and trains, we will venture the work at once. Please advise us. W. P. SMITH. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, September 7, 1864. W. P. SMITH, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: I will be responsible f ~r the safety of construction train and working party. I think the safety of the road in present position of affairs beyond question. ~. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. CUMBERLAND, & ptember 7, 1864. Capt. P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General, ffarper~s Ferry: The stragglers. couvalesceiits, & c., about 1,400 in number, started, via railroad, to Hancock on the 2d instant, Capt. IR. Cowan, Second Regiment Potomac Home Brigade, in charge. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. MARTINSBURG, September 7, 1864. General KELLEY: Everything is quiet along the lines. Averell still at Bunker Hill. BRENAMAN. CUMBERLAND, Mn., September 7, 1864. (Received 8th.) Brevet Major-General CROOK, Commanding 1)epartinent of West Virginia: General Kehley telegraphs from Parkersburg that the country below Parkersburg and Charleston is infested by small bands of guerrillas. Shall I send any troops to Parkersburg? A. N. DUFFI1~,. Brigadier- General Page 49 CHAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 49 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ MAR 1)EPT .,ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 297. IVashinqton, September 7, 1864. * * . 64. Iivt. Brig. Gen. Roy Stone, colonel One hundred and foffy-niuth Pennsylvania Nolunteers, is hereby assigned to (luty as commandant of the depot for volunteers, (~rnp (un-tin, IlalTiSburo Pa., an(l will take post and enter upon his (lilties accordingly. By order of the Secretary of War: B. D. rfOMT~S1~N1) it~& i~ta at A (lj?(tUflt- General. NEW YORK, A~)(1)tCflibei 7, 1861. Jloii. E. M. STANTON, ASCcretarl/ of lVar: I propose to go this evening to Long island an(l return on Satur- day. I leave Major-General I~eck at these headquarters, who will advise me promptly by telegraph if my earlier return is required. JOlLY A. IDIX, IIIo7or- Geui (T((i. NEAR BERRYVILLE, & ptewber ~, 6110 a. m. (Received 4 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: Your dispatch of the 6th instant reeeive(l. Kershaw 1i s not left the Valley, nor has any portion of his connnand. Yesterday I sent oft twenty-six prisoners representing his fonr brigades. No troops have left here. I have had prisoners daily representing each division of Bail ys army, and from other sources I am able to say positively that no troops have left, Earlys infantry force and my own number about. the same. I have not deemed it best to attack him, but have watched closely to press him hard so soon as he commences to detach troops toi- Richmond. This was the tenor of your dispatch to me after 1 took up the defensive. The right of my infantry line is at Summit Point, my left near Berryville. Early is on west side of Opequon Creekhis left above Stephen sons Depot; Ii is ii ght, Kersh a xvs division, covering the Berryvilie pike. P. 111. SIJBRJI)AN, ]1J((jor- Genci-al. CITY POINT. Septem her 15411 p. m. (lI~eceix-ed 4.30 P. mu.) Major-General SHERIDAN, Charlestown, Va. If you want to attack Early von nijolit re-enforce h rgely honi Wash- ington. Whilst von are close iii front of the enemy there is no neces- sity for a large force theme. This is not intended to urge an attack, because I believe you will allow no chance to escape which promiSes success. U. S. GRANT. Lieutenant- General. 4 i~ iz--voi.~ xLllI~ PT li Page 50 50 QPERATJONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. NEAR BERRYVILLE, VA., September 8, 1864 9 p. m. (iReceived 1.25 a. m. 9th.) MaJ. Gen. II. W HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Nothing important to report to-day. Ii moved Gene~ al Crook to Summit Point as Rodes movC(l from Stephensons Depot to Brncetown. Yesterday Wilsons cavalry division crossed the Opequon and went in the direction of Winchester; met by Kershaws division. Kershaw is on Earlys right, Covering the l3erryville pike. I telegraphed you some time ago that Lieutenant-General Anderson was here. He has not assumed command (being senior to Early), as only a part of his corps is here, but that he is here is unquestionable. There is no truth in the newspaper report of the loss of Crooks ambulance train. Only one ambulance was lost and some twelve or thirteen horses. The train was attacked and badly stanll)eded by six of Mosbys mcii. P. II. SHERIDAN, MI~jor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY l)IvIsIoN, No. 16. Near Berryville, Va., September 8, 1864. In order to prevent the unauthorized seizure of l)rivate property, the following orders and instructions are issued for the guidance ot this alnB: 1. No private property whatever will be seized, except horses, mules, fora~e, and fresh beet; or, in case of actual necessity, flour and bacon. 2. For all private property seized under this order, brigade or detach- ment quarterin asters will give vouchers to the owners, stating explicitly the amount and character of property taken, the order for so taking it, ~ind that on proof of loyalty to the United States Government the claim will be paid. 3. The quartermasters will take up on their returns and account for all I)ropert.y seized under this order. By command of Major General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, Jm, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DlVISIoN, No. 28. September S, 1864. * * * * * * * 2. The First Regiment of Cavalry, Potomac Home Brigade (Coles Cavalry), will proceed to Harpers Ferry, for the purpose of being dis- mounted, under the supervision of Capt. G. A. Gordon, special in- spector of cavalry. The command, after being dismounted, will report to Brigadier-General Stevenson, commanding at harpers Ferry. The horses and equipments will be turned over to Lieutenant-Colonel Page, chief quartermaster of cavalry. * * * * - By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 51 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 51 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort BiQJalo, Va., September 8, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. The Thirteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry went out today, taking as a general direction Aldie. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. A. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SAINT MARYS DISTRICT, Point Lookout, Md., September 8, 1864. (Received 3 p. in.) Major.General AUGUR, Coin in an ding Department of iVashinyton: Commodore Parker thinks it would require 600 men at least. He says he shall establish a close blockade of the mouth of the Rappahan- hock; that the enemy have only two boats, and if assailed can raise 400 men. He thinks they design to make a raid on the Eastern Shore if they can get out. JAMES BARNES, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY I )IVISION, September 8, 18618.15 a. m. Brevet Major-General CRoOK, Commanding Army ~t West Virginia: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that on the receipt of this dispatch you break np your present camp and move your com- niand to Summit I~oiimt, taking up a position at that place. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FOIISYTII, Licatena at- Colonel and Chief of StatJ GENERAL ORDERS, ~, HDQRS. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY I)IV., No. 10. S September 8, 1861. Hereafter the carbine will be habitually carried on the person or in the Imamids of the men, and nuder no circumstances will they be allowed to be strapped on the saddle. Many horses are rendered unserviceable by sore backs caused by this practice; it is a orievous error and must be corrected at once. Commanding officers will be held responsible that this order is strictly coniplied with, and that any violation of the same is properly punished. This order will be read at once to every company in this command. By order of Brigadier-General Torbert: WA. RUSSELL, JR., Major and Assistant A djatant- General Page 52 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIV., No. 11. September 8, 18W!. Capt. George B. Sanford, First U. S. Cavalry, is hereby relieved from duty as acting assistant adjutant- general, and announced as (omihissary of musters for the cavalry, Middle Military Division, in pursuance of paragraph 9, Special Orders, No. 27, headquarters Middle Military Division, September 7, 18(34. He will be obeyed and resl)cctcd accord- ingly. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: WM. RUSSELL, JR., iiiliajor and As& istan t A dpi tant- 0 enera 1. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. CAVAL RY~ MlDJ)LE M1LITARY DIV., ~o. 17. September 8, 1864. I. By direction of the major-general commanding, the Sixth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry is temporarily detached from the Reserve Brigade, First Division, and will immediately proceed to Pleasant Valley, Md., near Harpers Ferry, and camp near the dismounted cavalry camp. Ou arriv- ing at the latter place the senior officer of the regiment will assume command of the dismounted camp. II. Those meu of the Sixth Pennsylvania who are to be discharged in September and October will be at once dismounted and the horses turned over to men of the Reserve Brigade in dismounted cami), veterans being mounted first. III. Ou the arrival of the Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Captaiu Stevenson, Company C, and Lieutenant Cafferty, Company I), First New York (Lincoln) Cavalry, will report to Brigadier-General Torbert, chief of cavalry, without delay, foi duty with their regiment. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: WM. RUSSELL, Ju., ]Jliajor and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MiDDLE MiLITARY DIVISION, September 8, 18618 p. iii. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry (lirects that you detail one good- sized regiment to 1)roceed at 5 a. in. to-morrow to Charlestown, for the purpose of conducting to the front the trains of the army, which will be escorted to that place by a detail of General Stevensons command. The commanding oflicer of the regiment will con(lnct the train from Charlestown by the Berryville 1)ike, and will be held responsil)le for its safety. A regiment of infantry will be statiolie(l t Rippon, aiid will remain at that point until the rear of the train has l)assed. Very respectfully, & c., WM RUSSELL, Ju., Ass ist(U? t Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MiDDLE MiLITARY DIViSION, September 8, 1864. [General MERRITT:] GENERAL: General Tom-bert directs that the commanding officer of the regiment detailed to go to Charlestown to-morrow a. m. repor Page 53 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 53 to army headquarters to-night for any further instructions they may have. It is understood there are some few wagons to go back as far as Charlestown. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., A ss is (ant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. FIRs~I BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION CAVALRY, MIDDLE NI ILITA a v i)IVISIoN, & ptember 8, 1864. Capt. A. E. DANA, lssistan t A(ljatant- General, First Di~ision: One of the regiments I sent out to the Opequon this morning has just returned. I gave the coimuanding officer orders to strike the ()peqnon at the railroad and destroy all the mills between that point and Smithfield. Ite has Just reported, and says he found it impossible to (hestroy any mills on the Opequon, becanse of the heavy force of the enemy oii the opposite bank. Very res~)ectfl1lly, & c., C. A. CUSTER, Briqadier- General. JIDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION CAVALRY, A)eptember 8 1S64 Capt. A. E. DANA, Assistant A (ifa (ant- General, First Division: The officers commanding the two regiments report that the enemy have pickets all along the opposite bank of the Opequon and at one point near Jacksons Mill, between Jordan Spritigs and the Berry- yule pike. The enemys l)ickets were on this side but were afterward driven back. The heaviest force of the enemy was met near the point where the railroad crosses the Opequon, and at which point there is a mill on the opposite bank. The officers of both regiments agree in estimating the force upon the opposite bank at this point as superior in numbers to their own. This force of the enemy was not fully devel- oped until after my men had engaged them for some time. At Jack- sons Mill the enemy also displayed a considerable force. It was mostly cavalry, although some h)ortioll was on foot, and it is not known whether it was cavalry dismounted or infantry. The enemy have barricades of rails and rifle-pits thrown ~ip at different })oints along the opposite bank of the Opequon. Very respectfully, & c., C. A. CUSTER, Briqadier- General. HEADQITAR TEES CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY I)IVISION, September 8, 18618.30 a. nt. General MILSON: GENERAL: General Torbert has desired me to inform you that Gen- eral Crooks command will leave its l)resent position, on your right, to-day and move to Sumumit Point. When it leaves, he desires you t Page 54 ~) 4 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. move one brigade to their 01(1 position on the Berryville and Charles- town pike, and one brigade close to Berryville, on the Berryville and Winchester pike. Also keep parties on the roads toward Snickers Gap and iNliliwood, and toward Winchester, occasionally going as far as the Opequon. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., A ssistan t Adjutant- General. HE ADQITARTERS THIRD CAVALRY i)IVISION, ASeptember S, 1864. Capt. M. A. RENO, Chief of Staff, (Jarairy Forces, Middle Military I)ivision: CAPTAIN: The patrol sent this afternoon to Limestone Ri(lge found the enemy in possession with a strong picket-line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. WILSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Dirision. Everything quiet elsewhere. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY I )ISTRI CT OF HARPERS FERRY, September ~, 186 i~-I) p. m. (Received 10.30 p. in.) lion. E. M. STANTON, frecretary (f/ liar: My information from front is as late as 3 oclock this evening. Itecon- n aissances of yestercla y and this morning show the enemy still comi- fronting General Sheridan. They had retired their pickets from the immediate front of our army, but upon crossing the Opequon Creek a heavy line of skirmishers was soon met. The movements of the enemy seem to be to our left; General Sheridan passed Crooks corps from left to right to meet their new (lispositiomi. Our iufantry, right resting on Summit Point, with cavalry extending to Darkesville, on Martins- burg pike, to which point Averell is rel)orted to have fallen back. Of this reported movement of Averells I have no positive information, but believe it to be true. So far from Early retiring, the indications are that he adheres to the l411~PO5~ of holding this end of the Valley at least, if lie does not PVOP05~ a raid north of the Potomac. Respectfully, JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQVAETER5 MILITARY DTSTRlcT OF hARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, September 8, 1864. Maj. Geim. P. II. SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Dimis ion: GENERAL: Time president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad sent ill) to-day a commstrmiction train with laborers, to put in ruiinimmg order the road to Martinsbnrg. I fun mished ample guard for train imume- diately, and dispatched themu at 2 p. mu. to commence repairs. Without See correction, p. 60 Page 55 CHAP. Lv.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 55 interruption, the work will be completed by Monday. I shall require a garrison of at least a full regiment at Martinsburg, and also one at Dnftield~s. With them the road can be held perfectly safe. Respectfully, & c., JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Bru~adicr- GeneraL CIRCULAR.] HDQR8. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILiTARY i)IVI8IoN, AS eptein be 8, 1RG~ I)ivision commanders will at once cause all the dismounted men of their respective commands to be collected and sent under charge of an officer to the l)ismoumited Camp in Pleasant [alley, Mid. Particular attentiomi itiust he pai(l to collecting the dismounted mcix who skulk and loaf about the traimis. The (1nartermasters and commissaries should be ordered to make a thorough inspection of their trains and (lepots. that all (lislnonnte(l itien not pro~)erly detailed may be sent at once to the Dismounted Camp. By command of Brigadier-General Torbert: WM. itUSS1~LL, Jm, iII(i(jOi ((ii d 1188 /8/U nt A ((j U t(( at- C (N #21ai. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILl TARY DIVISiON, Acar Berryvilie, ITa., ASeptcmbe s, 1~Gi. Brigadier-C~en eral AYERELL~ Corn lfl ((fl(l iflf] Second Division: GENERAL: Your dispatch received, dated September 8, 7 a. ma.* No movements of imI)1)ortanee except Crooks corps to Summit Point an(I Merritts division thrther to the right. Wilson still on the Berryville and Winchester pike connecting with the left of the infantry. Intor- mation is sent you as often as practicable an(l immediately when any- thing imimportant transpires. Very respectfully, A. REM), Captain and Chief of ASta ft. MARTINSBURG, [September] A5~ iSG I. Received Cumitbeiland 4 p. mu.) (?eneral KELLEY: Please keep mne iii fbrmned wit Ii regard to stage of water in Potomac. \ViM. \V. A \TER EEL CITMIIEELAND, AScptembc ~, iSGI. Brigad ier-( ~eneral AVERELL, Martinsbury: Returned this p. mu. from Parkersburg. Very heavy main in the moun- tains. North Bramich has not raised munch yet, but uu~doubte(lly will. Capt. C. J. Harrison was directed to a(lvise you fromux the umoxitli ot South Branch this p. iii. 1. F. KELLEY, Brerct AL jor- General. Not 101111(1 Page 56 543 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., ~ ~TA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. BALTIMORE, AVptember ~, 13(4. Major-General KELLEY: We have received tuG following dispatch from General Stevenson: JIATIPERS FER1~Y, Sep/ember 2, l8G49~fO p. rn. I will l)e responsible for the safety of (Ionstrnctioll trains nn(l working Party. ~ think the safety of the road in present condition of affairs beyond daiioer. JNO. I). STEVENSON Brigadier- General. You are doubtless fully advised of tile position of our forces and of the enemy. l)o yott tPel that it is safe and proper to commence reopen. ing front the west ? it there is reliable protection it is most important to reopen the line, but it the work can only be partially executeti under risk of cal)tnre it is injurious to coummence. Can you arrange with General Sheridan t()r frill an(l reliable J)ratection ~ We are l)repared to work rapidly and effectively as soon as you advise action. J. W. GAR1~ETT. MARTINSIIURO-, & ptcmber 8, 1861. General KELLEY: General Averehi evacuate(i with his main force his position at Thinker Hill last night, in con sequence of the enemy massing on his front in strong imithntry an(l Some cavalry force. Capt. Jack Adams, rebel seems to have gone over your way with about 50() muemi. Indications were that Early has sent a heavy force down to~xrar(l l3unker Hill, anti that this force wonld i)e likely to attack at 13n.nker Ilill to day, anti hence Averell thlhimmg back so as to be beyond cross-roads. Averehl was this a. in. six miles front i\Iartinsburg on amid to the right and left of the Winchester pike. Torbert_ with a portiomi of cavalry, attempted a flank movement on the enemy yesterday toward Stevensons I)epot. Torbert made demonstrations at all the fords on the Opequon; but I cammt learmi that he crossed it. Sheridan sent womd to Averell by an aide-de-camnp that lie would take the hair off any mans head who ran train to Martiusbuig without his orders to do so. Sheridan sees no reason why Averell cant be supplied from liagerstown. The truth is Averehl has not sutlicient traimi. A portion of Lowells brigade was at Smithtield last night, when we were ~mt Timniker lull, and the Uniom~ hue of pickets and vedettes extends froma the 8lue Ridge to time North Mountain. Keep a shamp lookout lior rebel Jack Adams. He was at Mills Gap day before yester(lay. Sheridan was imear Berryville yester- (lay, also at amid micar Summit Point. T. C. WILSON, CuMBE1uA~n, 8cptcrnbcr 8, 1864. Capt. ChARLES J. HARRISON, 8outh Brunch The rebel Capt. Jack Adams, with 54)0 men, is reported conumig west from Winchester this a. in. The on the lookommt for him. By order: C. A. FREEMAN, J1wuteaant and A eting A ssistant Adjutant- (fl~nerai Page 57 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 57 SPECIAL OlInElis, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF TILE SU8QUEIIANNA, No. 209. C1I(Oflbersbllrg, I~o., AVJ)tcmber 8, 1864. 1. The Two hundred and second Regiment Pe~msylvania Volunteers, Col. Charles Aibrigilt commanding, will procee(1 without delay by railroa(1 from Harrisburg to Chambersbnrg, Pa., 811(1 report to the assistant adjutant-general for orders. The quartermastei~s (leI)artlnent will hi ruish time necessary transl)ortatiom 2. The Two hundred and secoin Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. Charles Aibri ght conunanding,- will niarcim fioum Chanibersburg on time London turnpike to near Rack Creek, 811(1 encamp on such ground as may l)e (lesigmmate(l by Maj. Johim B. Burt, ai(le-(le-camaj) 811(1 actimig assistant ins~)ector-general. * * * * * By (()mHhlialI(l of i\1ajoi-(reii& i~t1 (ouch JNO. S. SCIIULTZE, 1Iajor (Ill d A ssista ut A (ljUt(tftt- GCII er(Il. CITY POINT, VA., S(ptemlwr 9, 18G411i0 a. um. (Received 10 p. iii.) Maj. (len. j)~ lf SHERIDAN, Charlestowa, La.: it is now satisfactorily ascertained that no force has returue(1 here from time Valley except a i)rigade ot Fields and one of Picketts. It is (loubttill whether tile brigade from Picketts division ever reaclme(1 the N alley, as it was absent froum here but a few (lays. I would not have you i~ake an attack with the a(lvalmtage against you, l)ut would J)refer just the course you seem to be pumsuiimgtlmat is, pressimig closely npon the emmemy, and whemi he moves, follow lihit up, beiimg ready at all times to pounce upon him if he (letaches aiiy con sideral)Ie force. We are stremmgtlmening our positiomi here so that a small force cami hold the l)resent limme~ amid leave time greater part of tile arnmy to act on a given poimit when I choose. I feel able now for offensive movements, but as re-enforcememits may be expected daily, I 1)mefer to wait a short time to make every blow struck mimore effective. Are you re-enforced to any eomisideral)Ie extent ~ V. S. (~RANT, Lieateaaiin t- General. NEAR RERRYVILLE. NA., $eptember 9, 18649.30 p. m. (Received 8.30 a. m. IA)thm.) Maj. (+en. H. W. IIALLECK, Chief of Stafr. Nothing important to report to-day. My cavalry drove the pickets of iBreckinridges corps from Opequomi Creek, burned 4 flouring mills, and captured 2 officers and S men of Breckinridges comumand. Time Potomac rose l)eyomld fording last ni9ht, amid I transferred to east side of Opequon Creek Averells traimi and a I)ortion of his cavalry, still holding Martin 51)11mg f)ike, near Bunker Hill, and across to (ierrards- towim. P. H. SHERH)AN, Major-.Ueneral Page 58 58 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ChAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY l)lVISIoN, ATear Derryr ille, September 9, iS 61. Capt. XXILLIAM li. 1~RICE, (Ilteeeive(1 10 a. in.) Ifl8peCtor of Ca ca iry: General Sheridan has been informed that there are some men in the Dismounted Camp in Washington belonging to the Heserve Rrigade. Will you have themit mounted as soon as possible. This brigade is 110W very much reduced in iIumnl)ers. The men waiting mounts in Washuiio~ ton are old soldiers. I understand that they were monnted and after- ward their horses were taken and given to the Third Cavalry Division. As soon as the men of the First I)ivision are mounted please notify General Augur, as it is intended to have theni escort Martins light battery to Harpers Ferry. Answer. JAS. W. FOIRSYTH, liieutenaat- Colonel and Chief of~ Staff. GENERAL ORDERS, iIDQRS. MIDDLE MiLITARY I)IVISloN, No. 17. Near Berryrille, Va., ASeptember 9, 1864. The attention of the general commanding has been called to the pil- laging of ho uses amid time destruction of private property by stragglers of his comniand. This wanton and (iisgraceful conduct on the part of a few individuals will cast discredit on the faithful, and should be vis- ited by the most summary punishment. Corps and other independent commanders will at once take measures to put a stop to this discreditable conduct. Private property when taken must be taken by authority front corps and division coininaiid- ers, under General Orders, No. 16, from these headquarters. By comman(1 of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSB1TIIY, JR., A ssistant Adjutant- General. WAR 1)EPARTMENT. ADJUTANT- GENERALS Ov~i CE, lVashinyton, ASeptember .9, 18(4. Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR, Commanding Department o/ Washington SIR: I have the honor to iIclose* herewith a copy of paragraph 65 of Special Orders, No. 300, of September 9, .1864, from this office, (lirect- ing that a company of the Veteran Reserve Corps be sent to Trenton, N. J., for temporary duty, and to inform you that the Chief of Staff desires that the largest company nuder your command be sent, with a full complement of officers and at the earliest i)Ossibhe moment. Very respectfully, & c., E. D. TOWNSEND, Assista a t A (1/a taut- General. MIDnX- I1RAN( ii, ASeptember 9, 1861. (Received 8.10 p. in.) Maj. C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General: MAJOR: Have nothing new to report. Many of time Eighth Illinois are sick. Have moved my camp to-day a. in. near Duffields Mill, about Omitted Page 59 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 59 two miles avid a half from Darnestown, same distance from Muddy Branch Ford. Have Major Browns comnlan(t picketing the river. Respectfully, JNO. M. WAITE, Major, (t~e. ALEXANDE IA, September 9, 1864. (Received 8.20 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR, Chief ~f Stc~ff and Assistant A~jutant- General: COLONEL: We have information that there is about 300 rebel cavalry in the neighborhood of Fairthx Station awaiting a chance to attack some of our scouting parties; some of them are recognize(l as the Seventeenth Virginia Cavalry. These men do not belong to Mosby. They have been seen for several days iii that vicinity and about the Court- house. H. II. WELLS, Lieutenant- Colonel and Provost-Marshal- General. (Copy forwarded to Col. TI. M. Lazelle at 8.Th p. in.) IIEAI)QTJARTERS MIl)l)LE MILITARY DIVISION, September 9, IS 64. Brevet Major-General (mooR, Comma udiny Army of West Vir~pn~a: GENERAL: The major-general commanding (lireets that you detail one regiment from your conimand to assist in escorting the army traiiis through to Charlestown. The regiment that you detail will only go as Ihr as Charlestown, and then return. The trains will be parked near your command, and be moved via the road from Summit Point to Charlestown. The regiment should be oii the ground ready to start at a a. in. to-morrow. One regiment of cavalry will go with the trains in addition to your regiment. The commanding officer of the cavalry will be in command and responsible for the wagons and will go through to harpers Ferry. General Torbert has i)een (lirected to detail the cav- alry regiment referred to. Respecttiilly, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lienten ant- Colonel and (hltic/ o/ AStaff HEADQITAR TERS 1)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIR(aNIA, in the , September 9 1864 Field Col. I. H. T)UvAL: You will please make a detail from your command of one regiment to assist in guarding the army trains through to Charlestown. The regiment that you detail will only go as far as Charlestown, and then return. The train will move via the road from Summit Point to Charles- town. One regiment of cavalry will go with the train, and the coin- mnanding officer of the cavalry will be in command. The regiment from your command will report at these headquarters promptly at 5 a. in. to-morr9w. By comman(l ot Brevet Major-General Crook: WINE McKINLEY, Ju., Captain and Acting Assistant A djntant- General Page 60 (30 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LOHAP. LV IIDQRS. SECOND BRiGADE, FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, k~)eptember I) .l8G412.~O m. p. Capt. A. E. DANA, Assistant A (~jutant- General, First Ca rairy .1)iiision CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that I assumed command of this brigade last night. Proceeded this morning with the brigade up the Opequon. I have I)llrned all the mills (three in number) from Smithfield to the railroad, except a small one below where we struck the stream, which will be dealt with at once in a like incen(liary maniier. We met opposition at each point, but prevailed on the enemy to leave. We have captured 1 lieutenant and 5 mcii, who will l)e sent to yonr headquarters. 1 ama returnino to my canil). My loss was notliino Respectfn ily, your ol )edient servant, ALFIIBI) GIBBS. Colonel First New York I)raqoons. 1-IARPERS FE1~RY, September 9, 1~64. (Received 9 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: In my (lispatch last night the word left is used for right. The move- mnents of enemy are to our ri~ht. Nothing (hiring the night except contirma t ion of Averell movement. lIe 1101(18 M arti ii sburg. ~JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. IIARPEiZ 8 FERRY, ASeplem bet 9 18Gi. (Received 9 P. 111.) mu. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of IVar: No change of position of infantry reported to-day. Averehl has moved his command this side of Opequon, making Leetown his hea(l- quarters. A s(juadron of his commnalI(l was in Martiumsburg this even- iuig. Scouts from there, jnst arrived, rel)ort 110 emienmy below Bunker Hill. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. TIEADQTTARTEI? S MIDDLE MuATARY DIVISION, ASeptember 9 lSb4. Brig. Gen. J. D. STEVENSON, Commanding District of Harpers Ferry: GENERAL: The major-general (onlIllalidillg directs me to say that lie wishes the road repaired through to Martin sburg, but he does hot waiit any trains ot cars whatever mini through until or(lers are given from these headquarters. I have also to inform you that on account of tile misc in the Potomac River, rendering tile for(i at Williamsport imprac- ticable, General Avereli was obliged to swing his right round toward Leetown. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of AStaff Page 61 CHAP, LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 61 HEABQUART ERS MiDDLE MILITARY DivisIoN, Near Berry rule, September 9, 1SGI. Brigadier- General STEVEN SON, Co in )Ii anding District of Harpers Perry GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say in reply to your letter* of this date that he wauts you to usc our OWil force, and to repair the railroad toward Martinsburg without regard or consul- tatioli with the coastructiou parties of the Baltimore and Ohio Rail- road. General Averells train and a portion of his command was last night withdrawn to this side of the Opequon, on account of the rise in the Potomac and the impracticability of the fords. Our pickets are still at Bunker Bill, and extend to Gerrardstown. The general does itot want you to go into Martinsbnrg, but to repair the road this side. Respectfully, . NY. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel ait(l Chief of Staff. hEADQUARTERS, Harpers Ferry, & ptem ber 9, 1661. WILLIAM P. SMITh, Ba itini ore and Ohio Railroad \our construction train abandoned their work this morning withont sufficient reason. 1 (10 not think your boss shoul(1 leave his work without orders. Averell changed his position, which no doubt was the cause of ahnnt. I am ready to furnish pioper guards, and will be re- sponsible that no trains shall be lost or men injured. General Sheridan wants the work to go on. Just received a disprtch from him on subject. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. ItEADQUALiTEIZS SL(ONI) CAVA cuv l);vlslON, DEPARTMENT OF WF~T \Tnic INlA, Leeto an, i$(ptem ber 9 166-1. Major GIBSON, Acting tt55i8t(( at inspector- General: MAJOR: The division moved to this 1d ace yesterday afternoon. The o-eiieral (lesires von to T)ut a picket at Williammisport to guard the cross- ing at that point, arrest all stragelers, & c. rfhe picket uteed not be large. Respectfully, WILL RUMSEY, I .9sista at Adjata itt-General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVA LE Y I )ivm S [ON, 1)EPAItTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, I~eetoan, September 9 15(14. [Colonel SCITOONMAKER :1 COLONEL: The general desires you to send a regiment to camp within striking (listance of the fords picketed by you on the Opequon to hold them. The re~imeIital commander can send about twenty men Not fonud Page 62 62 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV to each ford, make arrangeineiits to be infoniied quickly of the ap- proach of the enemy, and can then unsaddle, put his regiment in the shade, arid find forage for it. Please see to it at once. Respectfully, VVILE RUMSEY, A ssista nt A djatctnt- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVA Li? Y I )JVISION, DEPART XWNT OF WEST V4RGINIA, Lieutenant GASS, Leeto an, & 1)tember 9, 18G4. Twenty-second Peunsyiran ia Cwra try: Sin: The general wishes you to remain in Martinsburg until obliged to retire by the enemy. When you do retire you will do so to the stone bridge on the Opequon, on the Shepherdstown road. You will hold the bridge until further orders. Put a small picket at the bridge at once. Respectfully, WiLL RUMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HANCOCK, 8epIcmbc~- 9, 1~G1. Major-General KELLEY: Just returned from down road. All ~uiet at Sleepy Creek; the men there have been scouting; report all quiet around that country. P. 13. PETRIE, Captain, & e. HANCO K, Septem bei 9, ISIJI. General KELLEY: (Received 9.3~ i}. iii.) Water falleii very mitch, but not foidable yet; about oite toot and a half past fording. If it keeps on falli~i g as it has to-day it can be forded to-morrow night. V. B. MILLi~1-i. WAn DnpART1xmNI Washington City, A~5(ptember 9, tSOi-10 j). ft. Governor BROUGH, Comm bus: The Adjutant-General reports that the last of your 100-days regi- ments left here to-day. This, I[ think, brings the proper tune for a suit- able official acknowledgment of their services, and it will be Hven promptly. EDWiN M. STANTON. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 15. & ptembcr 10, 1861. Hereafter the chief quartermasters of corps and other independent commands will submit, on the 10th and t~5tli of each month, to the chief quartermaster of the army, statements, a~)prove(l by their commandin Page 63 (1w. LY.J OOflE8PONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 68 officers, of articles needed to supply the troops mid their departments, and no requisitions will be made at other times, except iii case of special necessity, which will be stated in the certificate. The chief of ambulances at army headquarters and the chief signal officer will require from officers of their Jepartments the semi-monthly statements and submit them to the chief quartermaster of the army. The depot quartermaster at Harpers Ferry will hereafter issue only on requisitions approved by the chief auartermaster of the army. No quartermaster serving in the tel will owed more than one citizen clerk. The pay allowed will be *100 per month at the head- quarters of corps or other independent commands and of divisions, and 875 per month at the headquarters of brigades. Depot quartermasters will submit a list of their clerks and employ6s and the salaries paid them to the head of their department, and will employ only the num- ber approved by him. The highest pay allowed to citizen teamsters will be *30 per month, assistant wagon-masters *45 per month, and wagon-masters *60 per month, each receiving one ration per day. The allowance of men, including citizens and soldiers, for wagon trains, will be one man for each wagon, and for every ten wagons an additional man as cook. At the headquarters of corps, divisions, and brigades there will be allowed two blacksmiths, one saddler, one wheel- wright, and one forage master; at corps and division headquarters a wagon-master, and at brigade headquarters an assistant wagon-master. Commanders of corps and other independent commands will require from their quartermasters lists of men employed, and seethat the above allowances of number and pay are strictly conformed to. When the trains are divided, accompanying the troops and part remaining in the rear, commanders of corps, & c., will designate a quartermaster to take charge of each portion, with such a number of regimental quar- termasters for assistants as may be necessary. All transportation will be held by corps, division, or brigade quarter- masters except in the batteries. The wagons assigned to the latter may be held by the commanders when the batteries are not brigaded. They will, however, be subject, as other wagons, to the orders of the chief quartermaster of corps, & c. The chief quartermaster of the army may require directly from subor- dinate officers such reports and correspondence as may be necessary for the proper administration of his department. By command of M~jor-General Sheridan: C. KIHGSBUBY, Ja., AUSiSt4St 14j5t4t-GeaeraL [Sinnzmu 10, 1864.For field return of Sheridans command, see Part 1, p. 61.] HDQRS. DunrrnNT OP WamxGToN, 22D An~ Cours, Major-General SnrnDnh, Waekiwsijton, September 10,1864. Oommwsdiag Middle Division, Berrgville, Ye.: I have been obliged to send a battalion of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry to Port Tobacco to break up blockade-running and to intercept dpsert- ers from Army of the Potomac. I have a battalion of First and Third Division men, under Major Brown, uow on duty picketing the uppe Page 64 64 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANi) PA. [CHAP. LV. Potomac. (Jan I retain them iu the place of the battalion of the Eighth Illinois ? Major Ludlain. Eighth Illinois, returned here yesterday from Snickersville amid vicinity; reports no enemy about excel)t small bodies of Mosbys men, which it is impossible to get into a tight. C. C. AUGUR, iiajor- General. NEAR BI:RRYvILLE, \A. ASeptember 10, ThGI9..5U) p. m. i1~Iajoi-General AUGUR, (Receivc(l ii a. in. 11th.) Corn )Uafldiny Department Of ii as/i ington Retain the mcii of the First and Third l)ivisions Cavalry fbi as short a time as possible. Within the last twelve days Crooks men have killed 1 of Mosbys lieutenants, 18 men, amid captured 6 of his men. They have killed 5 of Mobberlys men, (al)tured 4(1 of his horses amid 75 revolvers. Other parties have captured I officer, l)adly wounded, alI(l 4 of his men. As soon as I get tune I will have a circular limit for the whole gang. Many of these men are citizens, ~vho live in this vicinity, and have been sellin9 produce to the (ioverniaeiit, and claim to be loyal on this account; they are getting loyalty now, with a pros- pect of poverty iu the future. P. II. SI[EhH)AN, ]Jfa,,o r- (len era 1. MUDDY IARANCIJ, 8~epternlwr 10, iSG1. (P ccciv ed 2.80 P. iii.) Maj or RAYMOND, Assista ut Adja taut- Gen eu-a 1: MAJOR: The mnen who coin initted the theft at Ashitowii are nndonbt- e(hhy portion of a band of twenty or thirty marauders who infrst Montgomnery Coumity and did not cross the Potomac at aiiy ford fbr the purpose. The trouble which exists in fiudimig themn is large forests to hide in and plenty of secesh citizens to harbor and feed them. Have had parties, under charge of energetic ofticers, muaking night marches and searching fbrests. They have (hiscovered several places of rendez- amil vous , it citizens would give inormnatioii I could 50011 hunt the band, and will try it anyway. The cavalry at Rockville are much the nearest San(ly Sh)iiiig; that otfmcer (loes not report to me, aiul I dont know as it is intended lie should. Respectfully, JOhN i\I. WAITE, Major, (tYi. A LEXAN DRI A, AV/)IC)UbCl .10,1501. Colonel TAYLOR, (heceived 1.30 P. iii.) Cli ief oJ Sta~,t and Assistant Adjatant-Gene.i-al COLONEL: We have imiforination from two or three sources this morii~ ing that there are about 300 rebel cavalry in the vicinity of Fairfax Statiomi. These men belong to time Sixth r~inia~ and Seventeenlhi Virginia; they are Mosbys men. I have sent out what cavalry I have to look after themn. 11. Ii. WELLS, Lien tenant- Colonel and Pro rost-~iIarslia 1- (len era 1 Page 65 65 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. UEADQUARTEu 8 Fu~iu Nnw YORK CAVALRY, & ?ptember 10, idGi. Capt. C. H. MILLER, Assistant A~jntuHt-GCflCr0l CAPTAIN: My patrol went out about three miles and a half from Rerryville and found about hfty cavalry in line mounting. I sent in awhile since a man claiming to belong to the Twenty-first New York Cavalry, whoni they piclied up. Respectfully, XV. P. RACON, LiCUtCfl((flt-COlOflCl, Command~nq. J h-s/cod front told ic/too of the lit Od Coo/eq ])icisioo, i;riyodi(e C eneral ~Vilson eomotondinq ~Sep/embu P! iSGI For (1 orst s lIOttpS. l)ivision headquarters 11 80 10 First Brigade 98 1 tel 201 1 9~ 17(1 Second lirigade 48 8 118 120 972 119 Total 157 2,7 -) VS 8,342 891 2,976 :01 Battery M, 24 United States 3 1 184 209 Total 160 2.8 476 191 1,185 101 HARPER~S FERRY, NV VA & /)tem her 10, idGi. (Received 10 1~~ im) lloii. E. M. STANTOIN, Secretaq ol We The mtlitary condition of the army, so t ii is t am advise(l, remains unchanged. During the day considerable canitoiiadin ~ heard in the front; no particulars of the tiring received. Supply trains from front came in this morning all right. JNO. 1). STEX~ENSON, Briqadier- General. 111)1115. CAvALRY DIVISION, l)EPT. 01 WEST VIRGINiA, Leetown, j!q, & J)te)flbCi 10, ldbi1 p. m. Brigadier-General TORBERT Chief of Caruiry, Middle ~1ftbtury Dirision GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the enemy sent titred regiments of cavalry across Mill Creek this morning, and attacked Schoonmakers 1)rigade. The enemy was rellulsed aiid driven back to Bunker Hill. The cavalry of Loniax were brought forward, with artil- lery, and compelled First Brio-ade my to retire, it having, however, nearly exhausted its ammunition. It has orders to cross the Opequon at the stone bridge anti hold it, sending 100 Enlield rifles toward Will- iamsport to re-enforce time guard of disinounte(l men at that crossing. As 80011 as the First Brigade replenishes its amnmnumution I intend to cross and attack the enemy in dank. Respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. NV. AVEEI~LL, Brige (tier- (Jen eral. 3 R RYOL XLIII, PT I Page 66 GG OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANi) PA. ICHAP. LV. IID~RS. CAVALRY 1)IVISION, DEPT. OF WEST Yun~IN1A, Jiectown, Va., & pte~bCk 10, 18(518 p. m. I3rigad i er-General T( dfl3ERT, Oh ,i~ ({f (Ia cairy, Middle Miiit(lky I)iji8fl)H GENERAL: The enemy have made strong demonstrations agaiiist the I)ickets at bridoe on the road to Bunker Hill over the Opequon and at Sulphur Sl)rings Ford. I had pickets on the opposite side covering those lor(ls but ti have becim away. 1 shall soon ascertain what icy (1 riven force has a~)proached Martiiisburg. Scouting parties have been sent over. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVEREEL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY l)~VISloN, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Near Burns Ford, & ?ptember 10, 18(545 p. ni. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Carairy, Middle Military Dicision GENERAL: I have the honor to report that my First Brigade, Col. J. i\I. Schoomimaker commanding, was stationed this morning at Darkes- vifle, with pickets extending from Dandridges Ford to Mills Gap, accQrding to the directions of the major-general commanding. At day- light l)atrols were sent to the front, which discovered the enemys l)ickets at Bunker Hill, but (lid not attack them. Shortly after 8 a. in. Ii ice brigades of the en eniys cavairyMeCauslan ds, J olmnsons, and Vaughnsattacked, with one inigade of imifantry of Rodes division, the two regiments at Darkesvilie (the other reginments 1)eillg on l)icl(et), and after a very severe coi test comm ipelled Colonel Schmo nmn a ker to retire. Schoonmakers brigade charged the enemnys cavalry three successix-e times umm(ler the (hirect tire othis artillery, driviiig theni l)ell-mell tlmrouo-h their infantry lines. The action was witllesse(l l)y several reliable officers of my command who have spent considerable time under lire durimig the past three months, and they all pronounce time action most gallant on the pait of my cavalry. NYheim their amumunition was nearly exhanste(l they retired in good order before time enemys a(lvance to Martinsburg, and have takemi. up the limme as directed in the orders of time major-general commamidimig, which you communicated to me the other day. I have imo report of casualties yet. A Ummion uman, Vami- meter, living near Darkesvihle, states to omme of my patrols that the enemys infamitry, Rodes division, came as far as l)a.rkesvihle and is there now. A prisoner from the Third Alabama Sharpshooters states that 1~odes division and a division of cavalry camne to the point where lie was captured (near Darkesville); that the cavalry wemit on to Martimmsburg. While the action was going on the emmemy made strong demuonstrations of crossing at Sulphur Springs Ford amid the wooden l)ri(lge, drivi mmg some squadrons which I had on the o~)posite side over to this. The last reh)ort troin Martimmsbur~ states the enemy (lid not attempt an attack upon Colonel Schoonmakers last position, but retired. Itespeetfuhly, your oh )ethiemmt serva mit, WI\I. XV. AVE LIELL, Briqa dier- General Page 67 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 67 HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT ~F WEST VIRGINIA, Ne(u Leetown, & ptember 10 1861. Brigadier-General TORBERT, Chief of Oweaby: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that there is now fl() force of the enemy farther north than Darkesville. The enemy left a picket at Big Spriiigs on retiring, but it was driven away by a scouting party. Respectfully, your obcdient servant, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIViSION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINiA, N~ear Leetown, AS1eptember 10, 186411.15 p. ft. General TORBERT, Chief of Cavalrq: GENERAL: From information receive(l from various sources I learn that General Earlys headquarters were yesterday eveniig sixteen miles from Martinsburg; General Breckinridges, fifteen miles from that place. The infantry which caine north of Bunker hill had orders to camp between Bunker Hill and Darkesville. Respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVE RELL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Near , September 10 1864. Leetown Licut. Col. CHARLES KINGSBURY, Jr., Assistant Adjntant- General, Afiddle Military Dirisi@n: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that you will permit my for- age train to come to this point from Harpers Ferry, where it now is. I also reqnest that you will direct cars to run on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad as far as Kearneysville, to bring forage to that point for my command. I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedicut servant, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Leetown, September 10, 18619.10 a. m. Colonel SCHOONMAKER, First Brigade: COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com- nmunication of 7.20 a. mu. to-day. The general commanding has directed that Colonel Powell relieve his pickets from Darkesville to the Ope- quon. Forage has beemi sent you this morning. Please be kind enough to forward at once the reports called for yesterday. Reports have not been received every hour. Respectfully, WiLl. H UMS iCY, Assistant A~jntant- General Page 68 68 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY i)lVISLON, I)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, H lO5p m. Major FARABEE, Leetown, & ptember iC) ld( First West Virginia Carairy: MAJOR: The. general wishes you to move with your regiment to Burns Ford, leaving your pickets out as they now are. Respectfully, WILL RUMSEY, Assistant A (~J a tent- General. WAll DEPARTMENT, lVash inyton City, & ~~tember 10 P61. Governor BROUGH, Columbus: Pursuant to the Presidents directions I transmit to you the following executive order made by him in acknowledgment of the services of the 100-days men, who at the opening of the spring campaign volunteered their aid in the operations of General Grant. The certificates of serv- ice mentioned in the order will be prepared without delay and traiis- mitted to the officers and soldiers entitled to them. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Neeretary oJ War. ASpecial Executue Order retaining thanks to the Ohio Volunteers Join 100 (lays. EXECUTlYL MANSION, lVashinqton City, & ptember 10, iSGI. The term of 100 (lays for which the Natioiial Guard of Ohio volun- teered having expired, the President directs an official acknowledg- ment to be made of their f)atriotic and valuable services during the recent campaigns. The term of sd-vice of their enlistment was short but distinguished by memorable events. In the Valley of the Shenan- doah, ou the Peninsula, in the operations on the ~Janmes River, around Petersburg and Richmond, in the battle of Monocacy, and in the intrencliments of Washington, all d in other important service, the National Gilard of Ohio performed with alacrity the (luty of patriotic volunteers, for which they are entitled to and are hereby tendered, through the Governor of their State, their national thanks. The Secretary of War is directed to transmit a copy of this order to the Governor of Ohio, and to cause a certificate of their honorable serv- ice to be delivered to the officers and soldiers of the Ohio National Guard who recently served in the military foice of the United States as volunteers for 100 days. ABRAhAM LINCOLN. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. I)EPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 211. Chambersburg, Pa., & pteinber 10, idGI, * * * * * * 3. The detachmnent of the Fiftieth Company, Second Battalion, Vet- eran Reserve Corps, at Easton, Pa,, w-ill be relieved fiomn duty at tha Page 69 C~p. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. (39 place and l)roeeed without delay to Harrisburg, Pa., and report to Capt. R. I. Dodge, U. S. Army, comnmandiiig the post, for duty. The quartermasters department will tarnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCIIULTZE, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR BERRYVILLE, September 11, 18649 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Your dispatch received. I have nothing important to report. Early still holds his position on west bank of Opequon Creek, near Jordan Springs. It is exceedingly difficult to attack him in this l)osition. The Opequon Creek is a very formidable barrier; there are various cross- ings, but all (lifficult; the banks are formidable. I have thought it best to remain on the defensive until he detaches, unless the chances are in my favor. The troops here are in fine spirits; some of them, however, have not seen any hard fighting and some of them are not entirely reli- able. There is 110 interest suffering here except the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and I will not (hivide my forces to protect it. We have exter- minated 3 ofhcers ammd 27 men of Mosbys gang in the last txvelve days. Time enemy have lost in the various litie combats which we have had with them, according to their own accommiits, over 3,000 men. Our own losses will not exceed 900. I have had some increase from Crooks con- valescents, but as yet but few recruits; yesterday amid to-day about ninety came in in all. The newspaper accounts about loss of ambulances, are erroneous. Only one ambulance was lost and thirteen horses; same day the bimshwhackers replaced the horses fromu captures fromu Mosbys men. We have had heavy rains for last few days. Potomac is not now fordable. P. H. SHERIDAN, iViajo r- General. MIJDDY BRANCH, September 11, 18646 p. m. (Received 8.30 P. mim.) Maj. C. H. RAYMOND: MAJOR: A few scattering rebels made their appearance opposite my line at Edwards ali(l Conrads Ferries this mrnorning. Everything (Inlet cxcel)t occasionally a man gets fired upon l)y bnshwhackers. Respectfully, ~IN. M. WAITE, ALExANDRIA, September 11, 1864. (Received 9.40 ~ I.) Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: The party sent ont yesterday to look after tile rebel cav- alry said to be in the vicinity of Fairfax Station have returmied. They report miothing in that vicinity. They captured t~vo of tile Secoiid ~fir- ginia Cavalry, who had been sent in to muoimnt themselves. II. II. WELLS, LIeu tea an F Colonel and Provost-Marshal- General Page 70 70 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA [CHAP LV. IIEAD(ITARTEInA PICKET, AYar Berry eille, ASeptember ii, 1861Il a. m. Captain MiLLER, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brigade, Third Dirision, (lava in! Corps: I have the honor to report that I sent a patrol out upon the Win- chester pike as far as Limestone Ridge, and the officer of the patrol reports the enemys Cavalry picket in the same position as it has been for a week past. Respectfully, your obedient servant. GEO. 0. MARCY, ]Jlajor, (Jomman ding Picket. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISIoN, September ii, 1864. Brigadier-General WILSON, Commanding Third Division GENERAL: Thc chief of cavalry directs that you (letail one good- sized regiment from your command, to proceed at (layliglit to-morrow morning for the purpose of conducting to the front the trains of the army, which will be escorted to that place by a detail from General Stevensons command. The commanding officer of the regiment will conduct the traiii from Charlestown via Summit Point, and will be held responsible for its safety. The commanding officer of the regiment will report at army headquarters this p. in. for further instructions. I am, general, very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 11, 186410.30 p. m. General ~AILSON: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that your train be sent back to-morrow a. in., under escort of the regiment going to Charlestown, to escort the army trains to the front. Your train will be joined by the train of two brigades of the First Division at Rippon. The regiment will act as escort to the whole as far as Charlestown. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant A djntant- General. HARPERS FERRY. September 11, 1864. (Iteceived 9.35 p. in.) Hon.E. M. STANTON: Heard from front at 3 p. in.; condition of forces unchanged. The tiring llear(l yesterday was skirmishing- of Merritts cavalry with enemy; amounted to nothing. JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 71 ClAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 71 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DivisIoN, September 11, 1864. Brig. 0-en. J. D. STEVENSON, Commanding District of Hen y}ers Ferry GENERAL: General Averell will 110W draw his supplies from liar- pers Ferry, and as he is so far from these headquarters the major- general commanding directs that you allow his teams to be moved to and from that point, by his (General Averells) orders, under escort from his command. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY l)IvISIoN, September 11, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding District of ffarper~s Ferry: GENERAL: The major-general commandino directs that you detail a strong guard to escort the army supl)ly trains from Harpers Ferry to Charlestown. The officer commanding the escort will be held strictly to account for the safety of the train until he transfers it to the oflicer in charge of the escort from Charlestown to the front. The guard detailed from your command will, after the train has been turned over to the cavalry escort that will be at Charlestown, report back to you. The trains should leave Bolivar Heights at daylight to-morrow morning. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. P. S.The supply train that you send out here to-morrow will return immediately; it is then to be at once loaded up with thin-ce days sup- plies, and will be parked inside of i3olivar Heights. Respectfully, JAS. W FORSYTH, Lienten ant-Colonel and Ck ie/ of A~tafJ HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY l)IvISIoN, 1)EPARTMENT OF WEST YlRGINIA, September 11, 186111.45 a. m. Colonel SCHOONMAKER, Commanding First Brigade: COLONEL: One of General Sheridans scouts who staid near Martins- burg last night reports to inc that the enemy were engaged in tearing up the railroad between Martinsbnrg and Noith Mountain, aii d that he Ii ear(l the report of small-arms, and that the Opequou i~ open below you. Please place your main body this 5i(IC of the Opequon micar tile stone bridge, keeping light but vigilant i)ickets out toward Darkesville, North Mountain, and on the other roads. Picket the Opequon lightly down to its mouth. Keep your command strictly Oil tile defensive, for the purpose of rest. l)o not remaiu saddled unless in the l)resence of the enemy or in case of an attack. Your pickets should be so poste Page 72 72 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. as to enable you to saddle up in time. Keep up your sup~)lics from Kearnevsvil le, and in ease von are driven from your position fall back to Kearnevs yule, keeping this brigade constantly notified of your move- ments. 1)o not invite attack or offer battle by sending out large parties. Recall the regiment sent out and substitute in place small patrols which can go quickly and far to examine the roads. Keep a mobile picket in the vicinity of North Mountain. The object is rest and recuperation. Very respectfully, your obedient servant WA. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- Uenera~. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGIMA, Col. J. A. SCITOONMAKER, ~pternber 11, 1864. Corn nia ndinq First Brigade: COLONEL: My order to you was not the result of the report of the scout; the object was stated at the end of the order. Ii would prefer to have you in the position this side of the bridge, but you may remain to-night where you are, and wait also where you are to-morrow until you hear from me. Respectfully, youi obedient servant, WA. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- Ueneral. HEADQUARTERS, iS~tony Point, ASelJtember ii, 1864. (Received Cuinberland 4 a. m. 13th.) Aajor-C-eneral KELLEY: The commanding 0-en eral directs that you seu(l at once to rejoin their regiments the four companies of the Eleventh West Virginia Infantry at New Creek; also the (letachinents at Parkcrsburg. All (letach- ments, otii(ers and meio of regiments here in the field, at present in the hues of your command, he wishes forwarded without delay to their regiments. P. 0. BIER, Assistaii t A (Ija ta at- General. HDQR8. I)EPARTMENT OF WAShINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, Major-C-eneral SHERIDAN, & ptem ber 12, 1864. (ow man diiu~ Middle Di cis iOa~ Berryville, 1 a.: Theic is not sufficient number of men in Martins battery to make it a horse battery. Do you wish it sent as it is, a light battery~ The cavalry are all 1-ea(Iy to accompany it, and will be sent the moment I hear fi-oni von. C. C. AU(IITR, i}I~jo- (leneral, COn/nuual~ng Page 73 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 73 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, iNIJDDLE MILITARY DIvIsioN, i\ear Ber~yrille, la., & ptcmbcr 12, 186410.30 p. rn. [Brigadier-General WILSON:] GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to furnish the followli g information and in structions: One division of the Sixth Corps and two brigades of the First Divis- ion will move to-morrow inorniiw to the crossiii g of the Opequon at Seivers and Lockes Fords, to ascertain the strength, position, and force of the enemy. He directs that you move one of your brigades with two guns to the crossing of the Opequon on the Berryvihle and Winchester pike, and cross, if possible. You are not to engage infantry. In ease you effect a crossing, you will press on toward Winchester to find out what they have. The infantry will cross about 9.30 a. m. Very respectfully, M. A. JtENO, (Japtain, & C. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, AS~eptember 12, 18648.30 a. m. General MILSON: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry desires me to say that General Sheri- (Ian has notified him that it has been reported there is a rebel cavalry camp at or neai White Post, and has directed a reconnaissance in that direction. The chief of cavalry desires you to send out at least a regi- ment to the I3erryville crossing of the Opequon Creek, to ascertain the truth of the above report. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, WM. ItUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, ISeptember 12, 1864. Brigadier-General McIntosh will make a reconnaissance with his brigade and two guns of Peuningtons battery on the Berryville awl Winchester l~ike, cross the Opequon, if possible, and press on toward Winchester as far as possible without endangering the safety of his. command tindino out what the force of the enemy consists of. He will however, not engage the enemys infantry, lie will start at $ a. m. to-morrow. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant A(Uutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALuY DIVISION, & ~ptember 12, 1864. Brigadier-General MCINTOSH, Commanding First Brigade: It is reporte(l that a rebel cavalry force is encalnpe(l near White Post. You will therefore (letach a reoiment to make a reconnaissance in tha Page 74 74 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (Ciup. LV. direction. Let it also go to the Berryville crossing of the Opequon hetore returning. A good line for it would be first to the Opequon, thence by Salem Church to White Post, and return. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY 1)IVISION, Brigadier-General CHAPMAN, ber 12, 1861, Corn man (liflf/ ASecond Brtgade: Please make arrangements for the capture of Captain Mobberly and such other of Mosbys gang as int~st the country along the Shenan- doah and beyond. Mrs. Kline, who lives two miles and a half beyond Snickersville, on the Leesbnrg road, will direct the troops to the house of a man named Carlisle, who is acquainted ~vith the haunts of Mob- berly. The party that is (letached for the airest of Mobberly should not be more thai~ twenty, and should do all in one iiight. Mr. Carlisle although a loyal and well-disposed citizen, should be arrested to keep up appearances. His residence is betweeii the Aldie and Leesburg pikes, about a mile from Mi-s. Klines. Very respectfully, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 12, 1864. (Received 9.05 p. in.) I-Ion. E. M. STANTON: Nothing heard from front to-day. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigader. General, (PC. HARPERS FERRY, September 12, 1864. W. P. SMITn, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: The general commanding wants the track relaid to Martinsburg. Voni- road is effectually covered by our forces. General Averells head- quarters are within three miles of Kearneysville. The working party and trains will be furnished with an ample guard, but the superin- tendent of construction must not abandon his work without orders, which will be promptly given if necessary. In my opinion, the l)rotec- tion to road is perfect. Cau the work proceed at once ~ JINO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. DIST. OF HARPERS FERRY, No. 5. Harpers Ferry, Ya, September 12, 1864. The ocueral commanding publishes the following orders for the gov- eminent of trade, and permitted supplies, within this military district: No trade stores will be allowed ot- permitted to tra(le with persons residing outside of the military hues of this district and within th Page 75 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 75 States of \iroinia all(l N\ est N irgilija, except those establishc(1 at Point of Rocks, Berlin, Sandy hook, harpers Ferry, and i\tartinsbiir~ said stoics to l)e duly licensed to trade as such by the regularly collstitute(l Treasury authorities, the licenses to be approved at these headquarters. Family sn})plies can only be 1)ermitte(I to be trallsl)orted south to the Potomac between the mouth of the iXionocacy and the Shenandoah River in Loudoun County, Va., and south of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad front Harpers Ferry to Hancock, in quantities ordinarily re- quire(1 for actual family consumption, where satisfactory evi(lence of the loyalty of the propose(1 recipient is furnished to the custom officers 1)efore granting a permit, which permit shall be su1~ject to such regu- lations as may be prescribed. It will be renteinbered that family supplies in quantities such as are ordinarily required for actual consumption, an(l intended for the use of those who have properly and satisiketorily established their loyalty, ai 1(1 authorized sutlers goods, fi r lawfully and regularly appointed sutlers of regiments and post sutlers, and such goods and 1)ackages as are intended for the private use of officers an(l soldiers of the U. S. Army are the only goods allowed to be transported to or into the inter- dicted district, and these must not be allowed to l)ass unless accom- })anicd in each case by a~ custom-house permit, siPne(l by a proper rev- enue officer or aide, and further api)rove(l by one of the military officers especially appointed or detailed to exaniine such permits and indorse upon them the necessary authority for the parties and their goods to pass. No goods whatever, upon any pretext, are to be allowed to go within the interdicted district unless accompanied by the permit and pass named. No l)ermit must be granted by the officer of customs, or others author- ized to grant permits, for spirituous liquors, except for medicinal pur- poses, all(l then only in very moderate quantities. Supplies shall not be in larger quantities than can be consumed in thirty days. No spirituous liquors shall be permitted to traders in the counties of West Virginia east of the Alleghany Mountains except on the order of these headquarters, or to such persons having authority to trade in liquor from these headquarters. This order to include all that part of Maryland between the Monocacy and Harpers Ferry on the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. No permit will be allowed to cover spirituous liquors except as pro- vided above or where sent to medical purveyors or army surgeons for medicinal purposes, and it is enjoined upon all officers commanding l)05t detachments, & c., to seize all spirituous liquors (except such as are intended for use as above specified), all articles contraband of war, and all goods of whatever description not protected by the proper per- mits and passes, attempted to be carried within the interdieted dis- trict. The several provost-marshals at Point of Rocks, Sandy Hook, Ber- lin, Harpers Ferry, and Martinsburg are designated as the officers to examine and indorse the custom-house permits for goods to be passed beyond the lines. The officers appointed to indorse passes upon permits are not so to indorse them as a matter of course, bitt maust satisfy themselves be- yond a doubt of the certain loyalty and good intention of the parties presenting such permits, as well as of the loyalty of those to whose use the goods are being conveyed, and that the parties presenting such permits are identical with those named therein or are (lilly amid prop- erly authorized by those named to act for them Page 76 76 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LV. And it is the ditty of all military otlicers statiOile(l at poiiits where there is any likelihood of goods being carried within the said district not only to see that all goo(ls ave accompallie(l l)y the required permits and passes and to satisfy themselves of the genuineness of the same, but also, in each case, to examine every trunk, box, or package, in order to ascertain, by comparison, whether its contents correspond with the inventory accoinpanyin g the permit. And it is further required ot all military officers stationed at all points along the river and railioad from which goods are carried into Virginia, after having carefully examined the permits and passes, and after having compared the contents of trunks, boXe5, and packages with the inventories, to cancel such permits and passes in order that they may not be again fraudulently used to cover other bills of goods. The sale of spirituous liquors within this military (listriet to enlisted men or employ~s in the military service of the United States is posi- tively prohibited, and it is enjoined upon all officers to see this order rigidly enforced. By order of l3rigadier-General Stevenson: ii. M. BURLEIGH, A N5istaftt A(ljUtUlt- General. WAR 1)EPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, 11 ashuqiton, A~ej)tem her JO 1864. Maj. Gen. J. A. 1)Ix, U. S. Volunteers, (Jonunanding Department of the East, Mw York City: The Secretary of War (lirects that the Military District of Northern New York be constituted, to consist of Congressional districts num- bered front ii to 20 inclusive, and to be commanded by Bvt. Maj. Gen. J. C. Robinson, headquarters at Albany; and that the Military i)istrict of Western New York be constituted, consistino of the Congressional districts numbered from 21 to 31 inclusive, Bvt. Brig. Gen. A. S. i)iven to command, headquarters at Elmira, N. Y., both districts to be under you as (lel)artment commander. The gencrals have been ordered to report to you by letter. Acknowledge receipt. E. I). TOWNSENI), Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR I)EPARTMENT, A i)JUTANT-GENERALS 0 FFICE~ Washington, AVj)tem her 12, IRGI. Bvt. Brig. Gen. A. S. l)tVEN, IT. S. Volunteers, Elmira, N. ~: The Secretary of War (lirects that you report by letter to Major- General Dix, commanding Department of the East. You are assigned to command, according to your brevet rank, of the Military l)istrict of Westermt New York, con sisting of the Congressional districts numbered from 21 to 31 inclusive, headquarters at Elnmira. Enter on command immediately and report receipt and execution of this order. E. I). TOWNSENJ), Assistant Ajjntant- General Page 77 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 77 SEAR BERRYYILLE September 13, 18647 p. in. (Received 14th.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: This morning I sent General Gettys division, of the Sixth Corps, with two brigades ot cavalry, to the crossing of the Summit Point and Win- chester road, over Opequon Creek, to develop the force of the enemy at the crossing in that vicinity. Rodes, Rainseurs, Gordons, and Whartons divisions were fonud on the west bank. At the same time General Wilson, with Melmitoshs brigade of cavalry, dashed up the Winchester pike, drove the rebel cavalry at a run, caine in contact with Kershaws (hivision, charged it, and cal)tilre(l the Eighth South Carolina Regiment (16 officers and 145 mcii) and its battle-lag, and Colonel Ilenagan, corn- inandiimg brigade, with a loss of only 2 men killed and 2 wounded. Great credit is due to Generals Wilson, McIntosh, and Third New Jer- sey an(l Second Ohio. The charge was a gallant one. A portion of the Second Massachusetts, Reserve l3rigade, made a charge on the right of our line and cal)ttlre(l 1 officer and It mcii of Gordons division of infantry. Our loss in the reconnaissance is very light. P. Ii. SI-JElIIDAN, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQES. MUJDLE MILITARY DivISioN, No. 3:3. September 13, 1864. * * *- * * * 3. Brig. Gen. John 11. Kemily, U. S. Volunteers, is relieved from (lilty in the Military District of harpers Ferry, and will report for oi-ders to Maj. Gen. Lew. Wallace, coinnianding Middle l)cpartment, Eighth Army Corps. By coummand of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, Jn., Assistant A dj~tant- General. HEADQUARTERS IJARDINS DIVISIoN, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY Coups, DEPT. OF WASHiNGTON, Was/un gton, P. C., September 13, 1864. Col. J. HOWARD KITCHING, Corn nianding First Th-igade: COLONEL: General Ilardin directs that the officers and enlisted ineii l)elolmgino to the First Battalion Ninth New York Artillery, now in your command, be immmnmediately relieved an(l ordered to report to time comm and of the senior officer of the detachment at time Soldiers Rest, itear Baltimore amid Ohio Railroad depot, for consolidation witim the detachment of the First Provisional Battahioii, going to the Army of the Shenandoah. The general also desires that this detachment arrives at tIme Soldiers Rest to-night, in order that they may leave for the army in the inornimig. The seimior officer of the two detachimemits will take command upon the coimsolidation, and immediately apply for trans- portation at the quartermimasters office (Colommel Ehison). I am, colonel, very respeetfidly, your obedieimt servant, H. T. LEE, Lientenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 78 78 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD, AND PA. [CaAr. LV. FLEA 1)QITAI~TEIi8 I IAE DiNS DIVISION, TWENTY-SECOND Awxi~ CORPS, I)~PT. 01 WASHINGTON, Lient. Col. ~. G. THOMAS, Wctshinyton, D. (I., & ptember 13, 1864. (Join 1)1(111 (buy AS~CCO?t(i Brigade: COLONEL: Pursuant to orders from (lepartil ient Ii eadquarters General Hardin directs that you relieve from duty, in your command, the organ ization known as the First Provisional Battalion. Captain Long, coin- inanding, will (livide the command into two detachments, the one to consist of officers and men belonging to the Arniy of the Potomac, the other to the Army of the Shenandoah. He will have prepared nominal lists of each detachment. The general desires that the battalion march to-night, if possible, to the Soldiers Hest, near the Baltimore and Ohio ihailroad depot. Upon the arrival of the detachments there, the one ~oing to the Shenandoah will be consolidated with the (letach- ment belonging to the Ninth New York Artillery. The senior officer of the two detachments will take command of the consolidation, and procure transportation to Harpers Ferry from Colonel FJison. chief qnartermnaster, Department of Washington. The senior officer of detachment for the Army of the Potomac will assume command and l)Iocure transportation thr his detachment through Colonel Elison. Captain Long, having superiutended the organizations of the detach- memits as above indicated, will report to his own company. The gemi- eral commanding desires that these orders be promptly executed. I am, colonel, very res~)ectfully, & c., H. T. LEE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 13 1864. Brevet Major-General EMORY: Wilsons cavalry drove the enemys cavalry from the Berryville crossing to the vicinity of Winchester, where he elicountere(l Ker- shaws division moving to Wrights front. 1-ile charged the infuimtry, capturing the Eighth South Carolina, with all its officers. The charge was made oim a line of battle. Respectfully, P. H. SHERII)AN, Major- General. General Wright has (leveloped a heavy force. P.11. S. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 13, 1864. Brigadier-General WILSON, (Jomman ding Third Cavalry Division: GENERAL: In pursuance of instructiomi s from headquarters Middle Military Division, the chief of cavalry directs that you (letail one regi- mnent from your command to escort prisoners an(l wounded to Harpers Ferry. The same to report at army headquarters to-morrow a. m. ~it (~ oclock. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Major and A ~s~sistan t Adjutant- General Page 79 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 79 11 EADQUARTERS Tnw~ CAVALRY i)iyi SiGN, & ptcmber 13, 18613.45 p. m. Brigadier-General iVICINTOSTI (1onuuandiny First Brigade General Sheridan wishes a strong picket Pwce left to hold the cross- ilig ot the Opequon. If the Second New York Cavalry has moved from there, be good enough to send another regiineiit back. Let it be iii- structed to hold on as long as possible without JCOl)ar(lizing its safety. Very respectfully, J. Ft. WILSON, Briga(lier- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, In the Field, & ptember 13, 1864. Licut. Col. C. B. COMSTOCK, Cii ief Engineer with Lieutenant- General Grant: M~ DEAR COMSTOCK: Since I have been in this department I have unfortunately incnrred the displeasure of a few sniall politicians, and they have leit no stone unturned to injure inc publicly and privately. The most atrocious slanders have becit circulated regarding my official conduct and private character. I have endured the contumely that these few active enemies have heaped upon inc with indifference until the present time, conscious of the rectitude of my conduct and always reliant upon the confidence of my superiors and the respect of my coin- ra(lcs. But recently I have become aware that the mind of General Grant has been l~oisone(1 by these slanderous reports and his JII(ig- mnent J)rcjud iced against lime. I think it is my (hity now to request an investigation. Knowing that the regular correspondence of the gemi- eral must very much embarrass tutu, I inclose a letter- which I have written to him, asking that you will be goo(l enough to lay it before him at some opportune moment when he can give it that attention which I would like it to receive. My dear Comstock, I rely upon your friendship and discretion in this mimatter. Read the letter and endeavor to l)resent it to the general nuder favorable circumstances, so that lie will be inclined to sen(i Some omme to investigate this matter. lt touches my honor very closely. To tamely subuuit to the humiliation of having my character and competency passed upon, with the evidence of such men to direct the judgment, is unendurableis impossible. If there is any one hope iii my breast that is supreme over all others it is that this rebellion may be put down by whipping the South lion- estly and fairly by destroying their military force amid power entirely; it is the only proper way. It is this belief which has been always the main-spring of my action. Is it imot theim dreadful that after all my hardships amid sufferings I should be believed everytlming tlmat is bad by the general comnumanding our armies, without a chance fbr defemIse~ We shall see better timnes here before this reaches you. 1~lease let mime hear from you soon. Relieve mime simicerely your friend an(l classniate, WM. XV. AVEBELL, ______________ ________ Briqadier- General. Not 101111(1 Page 80 80 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LY. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY l)LVISIoN, September 13, 1864. Brigadier-General AVERELL, Commanding Second Division Cavalry, West Virginia GENERAL: Major-General Sheridan directs that you do not report to headquarters of your department while he is commanding the troops in person. All communications and reports relating to your command, till further orders, will be sent to and through these headquarters. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TOJtBERT, Brecet Major- General of V6lunteers, Chief of Catalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY I)IVwmoN, September 13, 1864. Brigadier-General AVERELL, Commanding eeon d Division, West Virginia Caxalrq GENERAL: I am directed to inform you there will 1)e a reconnams- sauce by a division of infantry at Lewis Ford, on the Opequon, and two brigades of cavalry at Lockes Ford, opposite Brucetown; OUC brigade cavalry at Smithfield, one brigade at Berryville and Win- chester pike crossin~ Opequon. General Sheridan says lie gave you orders to move towar(l Bunker [Jill with your whole division this morning and demonstrate strongly on the right. rphe troops here will be at the (Tcek between 9 a. in. and 10 a. nm. It is hoped your troops will be on time move up the pike by that time. Yours, & c.. A. T. A. TORRERT, Bra cet Major- General of Volunteers, Chief of Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIvISIoN, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Near BunLer Hill, September 13, 18611.30 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, or Brigadier-General TORIIERT: The enemy had a picket at Bunker Hill last niolit of tbrty men, from which fonr were captured, who stated that tin bodens cavalry were half a umile to omme mile back; that time infantry were at om neal- Stephensons l)epot. A negmo woman caine in on the direct road frommi Winchester, who lives neam the Gerrardstown road, last evening with a pass sigimed by command of Major-General Lomax, dated yesterday. She had been arrested on Saturday, charg-ed ~vitlm giving ititorination to us. SIte says site left General Loin axs headquarters yesterday; lie was oiie nmile aimd a half north of Winchester ott tlmis pike. Earlys headquarters were at Stephensons Depot; I}reckinridges, six miles this side of Win- chester, division encamped on both sides of the road in line, but with fl() breast-works; Wharton, half a mile mmorth of Breckinridge, at Reeders, encamped on both sides road; Rodes division three miles south of Bunker Hill, i. a., nine miles from Whichester. Had a 1)icket at Bunker lull, with reserve at Yellow house one umile and a half back. The officer in charge of a(Ivaiice rel)ort8 heavy i)icket force of the enemy south side of Bunker Hill and firing heard on our left. Respectfully, WM. W. AVERELL, Brigadier- General Page 81 CHAr. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 81 HEADQUARTERS (JAVAL i~x~ l)i VI S ION. DEPARTMENT OF WEST \ I IZ (+IN IA, Near Bunker Hjll, Nytembe~ 13, 1861. Brevet Major-Gei~eral LORBERT, GENEm~u: I have the honor to report that my a(lvance drove the eiieniy from ihinker Ilill one mile south upon his SllpI)ortS of infantry or dismounted men. I have information, which I deem reliable, that the eneiuiy has sent Fitzhugh Ee& s cavalry up the Valley, and that his pioneers from various briQacles were sent np yesterday morning to repair bridges, & e. My main body to-night will be near l)arkesville with pickets omi the left to the wooden bridge, on the Opequon, on the right to North Mountain. Respectfully, WM. XV \VV~~VEL, .ihiqa di er- General. ILAIIPERS FERRY, ~v A., ~YcptCm/)(J 13, 1561. lion. E. M. STANTON, ASecretar?/ of liar A reconnaissni ice in frontcavalry, ii btn try, and artillerywas to 1)e. across ~as heard iiiade to-day the Opequon. Considerable firm~ al)olit the time fixed for the movement, 1)11 ni~ particulars received. JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. SuEcIAE ORPRuIS. IIEADQTJAV.TERS, No. 36. (Ia aiberlaud, 11(1., ASeptenil)er 13, 1861. I. Battery D, First West Virginia Light Artillery, Capt. John Car- ha conlmalI(ling, now at Wheeling, . \a., will proceetl via stealII-l)oat to Parkersburg, XV. Va., alI(1 take (barge of the fortifications at that post, to there await the arrival of the gnns and eqiliplnents of his bat- tery. The commanding officer will report his arrival at Parkersburg to Col. N. XVilkinson, comnianding at Clarksburg w II. By direction of the department commander the detachment of the Eleventh West Virginia Infantry, Maj. J. L. Suinpson (oliilnanding, will proceed via Harpers Ferry to rejoin their re~mment now at Sum- mit I~oiut, Va. That portion of the regiment imon it New Creek, XV. Va., will be held ill readiness to move inunediateb npon tia arrival of time detachment at preseilt on duty at Parkcrsburg I lie ilnarternias- cis (lel)artllient will furnish transportation. ItT. Company (4, Sixth West A irginia Infantry 110W 011 duty at New (reek, W. Va., will proceed at once to l~arkcrsburg, XV. Va., and relieve lie (letachiment of the Eleventh West Virgim ia I nfammtry stationed at that i)osl. ipon being relieved by Company (I, Sixth West Virginia infantry, time detachment of the Eleventh West Virginia Infantry will move inmmnediately to New Creek and rel)ort to Maj. J. L. Silnpson, en ioute to join their regiment in the field. The quartermasters de- i)~irt1miel1t will furnisll time necessary trallsi)ortatioli. * B v order of Brevet Mej or-G eneral Keilev: C. A. lI4EEAiAN, Lieutenant ((ad A cling A 5*i.~l((nt Adjutant-General. 6 it itVOL XLIII. Pr i Page 82 82 OPERATIONS IN N, VA., W, VA., MD., AND PA. fCnAr~ LV. SPECIAL ORDERS. HEADQUAR1 E t~S, No. 37. Cw,nberland, lid., September 16, JSbJ. 1. Company 0-, Fifth West Virginia Cavalry, on duty at West Union, W. Va., will move without delay via raihoad an(I report to the corn- inui~ding officer at New Creek, W. Va. The quartermasters (lepart- nient will furnish traii sportation. By order of Brevet Ma;or-Geiieral Kellev C. A. VRELI\IAN, iji(9(tC)Wflt ((0(1 Aebuq A.e4stant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, Th~QRS. MiDDLE DEPT., 5TH ARMY CORPS, No. 229. Baltimore, September 18, .PS& 1. * * * * * * S. Two companies of the One hun(lred and ninety-third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, now stationed at Wilmington, l)el., will be put en route at once to report to Major-General Cadwalader, at Philadelphia, Pa., in obedience to orders from the honorable Secre- tary of War. The quartermasters department will furnish the neces- sary transportation. Col. S. M. Bowman, commanding officer I)istrict of Delaware, is charged with the execution of this order. By command of Major.General Wallace: SAME. B. LAWRENCE, Assista ut Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. I) PT. 01 Tilt SUSQUEHANNA, iNo. 51. Chambersbarg, Pa., September 18, 1~Ui1. Capt. L. B. Norton, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, having reported to the eommaiidiiig general in obedience to paragraph 4-, Special Orders, No. 288, dated War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, Washington, September 1, 1864, is hereby announced as chief signal officer of the Department of the Susquel iann a. By command of Major-General Conch: JNO. S. SCIIULTZE, Assistant A dj atan t- (len eral. SPECiAL ORDERS, HDQRS. i)EPT. 01 THE SusQuEI-IANNA, No. 214. Chambersbarg, i~a., September 18, i~61. * * * * * 2. Capt. M. Hastings, Keystone Battery, 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, coni mandin g artillery at Chainbersbur~, Pa., will report with his command to Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding Two hundred an(l Iirst iRegimnent Pennsylvania Volunteers, near Back Creek, at 9 a. in. 14th instant. The command -will be supplied with three days rations, subsistence5 and forage. * * *- By command of Major-General Couch: JINO. S. SCHULTZE, Major ((ad Assistant Adjutant- General Page 83 CHAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 83 IIEAIJQUAiLU[ERS IL)EPARTME]NT OF TIlE S1JS(W LIJANNA, Gb ani ber~bwrg, Pa., ASeptem ber 14, 1864. (el. F. As~ITRY AwL, (onunanding 201st Regini en t Pen nsylv(( a at I 0iU ulcers COLONEL: The coin~nanclmg general directs that you march your regi- meiit ns toliows: On the 14th ilistant march from your present camp via Saint Thomas to Bri(lgeport; on the 13th instant march from Bridge- port to Cashtown ; on the 16th instant march from Cashtown via liutts Corner (which is three nijies from Cashtown on the road to Cl iambexs- burg), wherc you will turn to the left and march by shortest line l)ack to your presdilt camp. The sick will be left in camp in charge of a medical officci. An officer with a small squad of men will be left to guard the stores, camp, & c. You can make arrangemem its to have rations meet you at Cashtown. Tile march will be an easy one, with hcq nent halts. No straggling, pilfering, or interferine with private Property in any way will be allowed. The Keystone Battery, Capt. IXI. Hastings commanding, will be ordered to report to you on the morn- mo- of the 14th. You will direct it to proceed with yon, and will be under your orders. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. S. SCHULTZE, 4 sshtau t A djnta at- General. ELMIRA, & jptem her 14, 1& i. (Received 6 p. mu.) General IL. THOMAS: I am in receipt of telegram ot yesterday, intormiiiiig me tlia t I anin nssigllc(i to conmniand ol Military I)is trict of XYestermi New Noink. I have reported to General Dix as directed. A. S. I)IYEN. CITY POINT, VA,. AS~J)t(NU her 11, 1861. AJoj. (len. H. W. JIALLECK, Washington: I will leave here to-morrow morning for the Shenondoak Valley to see Sheridon. Will not pass through Washington either going or eomniiin g unless it is the wish of the President or Secretary of War I should do ~o. Everything is very quiet here, and all indications are that it will remain so nntil I take the offensive. 17. 5. GRANT, Lien tenant- General. XYX5HI~(iioN. AS(j)/eml)er 11, 1Sb 110 p. m. I len tenan 1-General GRANT It amivilming should require your l)Leselue here notice will beg-iveim. ~xt present there is no reason to change your plans. E. iXi. STANTON, Aeeretari/ of lEar \~A5HINGTON, AS~epteinber ii, 1s1) i-I p. mu. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.; It is represented to me by reliable husines, men that the long and continued iuterrui~tion (P the Ohio and Cl~ sa1~cakc Canal md l3aiti Page 84 [CIA?. LV. 84 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD, AND PA. more and Ohio Railroad is very seriously affecting the sup ly ~ pro- visions and fasi for public and private use in Baltimore, Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria. Unless the canal can be opened very soon a sufficient supply of winters coal cannot be procured before the close of navigation. The gas companies are already thinking to stop their worksfor want of coal. The canal and railroad have been several times repaired, and as often destroyed. They, therefore, urge the great importance of driving Early far enough south to secure these hues of communication from rebel raids, and that if Sheridan is not stronjr enough to do this he should be re-enforced. I respectfully communi- cate the substance of these representations for your consideration. H. W. i?LALLECK Major-Gnnera.l and Chief of kta;. SPECIAL ORDERS,) HDQRs. DEPT. o~ WASHINGTON, TWENTY-sECoND Ann Cornrn, lo. 229. S September 14, 1864. S S S 3. The following-named unattached companies Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, having reported at these headuartfls in obedience to orders, will be reported without delay to Bngadier-General Hardrn, command. big division, for duty: Seventeenth Company, Capt Richard Phillips; Xineteenth Company, Capt James H. Wade; Twentieth Company, (apt. J. 0. Bemis; Twenty-first Company; Capt C. P. Winslow; Twenty-second Company, C apt George T. Fayerweather; Twenty- seventh Company, Capt. James McDavitt. * S * * * S * By conimand of Major-General Augur: (5. 11. RAYhU)NI), Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT Oil WASHnIOroN, 22D ARxv Coars, September 14, 1861. Col. ~VILLIAX GAMELE, Commanding Canip Stonemasa: (oLonL: The major-general commanding directs that all officers and enlisted men lit for duty, eq jyped and mounted, belonging to the Reserve Bripade and the First and Third Divisions be prepared to niove to rejoin their regiments. Martins battery horse artillery will march from Camp B~, under escort of the detachment, to the headquarters Middle MilitaryDivision. Send an officer to Camp Barry to ascertain the hour at which the battery will be ready to move, and make the nec- essary arrangements. Report the departure and strength of the de- tachment in accordance with General Orders, No. 52, headquarters Department of Washington, November 19, 1803, paragraph 22. Very respectfuUy, your most obedient servant, .1. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Ansietant A4fwt4nt-Gesera Page 85 (~HAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 85 I IBQUS I)EPARTMENT OF \\ASHINGTON. 221) ARMY CORPS, AVptemb(7 i 1, 16 ut. ( 1. IL iM. LAZELEE, Corn fllOfldiflq (1a cairy Thu (((IC: COILONEL: I am directed by the major-general couimividing to ac- knowledge the receipt of your coninmiiicatioii of the 13th instant, and tO iiIt& ?WIil you t hat the l)rol)ose(l scout to the Rapidan is approved. servant ant, colonel, very respecttiilly, your most ol)edient - (Thief 01 ASICIJ (U! (1 itSS iSUUtt A (~H( t((ftt- (Thucra 1. HEADQUARTERS Sixin ARMY CORPS, & 1)tCall)Cr 14, 1864. Brig. C-en. L. TuoiuAs. Adjutant-General U. S. Arrny, Washim~qton, 1). 0.: GENERAL: The term of service of CoT. Charles I-I. Tompkins, who has been for a long time chief of artillery of this corps, is about to expire, and I am desirous that lie should be retained in that position, if prac- tjcable. His reoimdnt the First Rhode Island Light Artillery, was ~ mustered in by batteries, the difference in time between the dates of muster of the first and last beine more tItan two months, 50 that the batteries are being mustered out as their terms of service expire. The last battery will have accomplished its three years ervice iii May next. Lv s oine special arrangement the field and staff were munstem-ed in before the regimental organization was complete, and their term of service therefore expires befbr that of four of the l)atteries. Colonel Tompkiiis is the only one of those originally nmmistereol, and there is at l)resent no regimuental staff. Of the other field officers now belonging to the regi- ment, the major is absent on sick leave, an(l the period of his retnrmi tim ocertain, wI mile tIme lieutenant-colonel is chief of artillery iio time [Ninthj Corps, so that neither is available to take the place as chief of artillery in this corps. I have, thmeretbre, the honor to reconunemid that authority be given for the retention of Colonel Tompkins imi service till the terinmi of sem vn c of the last battery of his regiment expires, and that lie be pet mum tted to memnaimi till then in his present position. The immterests of time am tilk my aria ot this corps. imi which there are twelve assigmmed batteinmes, reqnmre that the (hiet of a~ tillery should have rammk above the bath m y omit- mimamiders, amm(l Colonel Tompkins bar, by his selvice of liii x mm s, slmoxvmi that he is auinirabiy fitted for the positiomi. Ilis mimu~to m out xxiii be a loss to the service amid I tlmerefbre trust that his retemintiomi, is n ( omim- mimended, may be authorized. Very respectfully, your obe(liemmt servant, ii. (I-. WI-bIG UT, Major- General, (onunandinq. HEADQUAmt liUl 5 MIDDLE iNIILITAR Y I) 1\TI5IoN. AS(j)tCn( he, IL Th61iO.t) Jf 0!. l3revet Major-General LIXIORY, (onmandiny Ao,eteenth Ar Wy~ Corps: GENER ~x t. : I aiim in strncted by the mnajor-gemieral commamidimi g to imi- Iormmi von tlumt a (lesertel from tIme enemmiy rcl)orts flint early this morn- mu f~odes an(l hamnseurs (hivisions nioved Trout Brucetown in th Page 86 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W VA.. MD., AND PA. [(hAP. LY. direction of Winchester, an(I that it was reported in their camps that thcy would make an attack on the illerryville pike. As a precaution- ary measure, General Sheridan thinks that it will be best to have your command on the alert early in the morning. I am, generab very respectfully, yonr obe(lient servant, JAS. W. FORSYTH, (Ii ief of Shift. ITEADQUAR TEES Turun CAY A E~ Y I )lvlsLoN, Brigadier-General MCINTOSh, Gonimandhig First Brigade: GENERAL: Under instructions from the chief of cavalry, you will send a regiment from your brigade at daylight to-morrow morning to the crossing of the Berryville and Winchester pike with the Opequon, and order the regiment on picket on that pike to send frequent patrols to the crossing during to-night, reporting at once if any movement on the part of the enemy is detected. By command of Brigadier-Genera I Wilson - L. SIEBERT, Assisla ii / tdjUt(( /tt~ G(91CP((l. UDQES. CAVNLRY l)IvlsniN, l)EPT. OF WEST X[RGINIA, A(j)1CiflbCI Ii, 1SGi9 (( m. Brevet Major-Cciiernl TORBERT: The enemy attacked and pressed the skirmish line of my advance hack to Bunker Hill last evening. They have a brigade on picket tbei-e this morning. Scouts from within their jiles report 110 indica- tions of an immediate movement. I)eserters say that their pioneers are building pontoons; this is not thought reliable. I can watch this val- 1ev as well by having- one brigade at Leetowit and one near the stoiie bi-idge as by posting both or either here. We need pay. Officers de- sire opportunities to make up long neglected or delayed accounts, and much business is to be transacted which cannot be attended to in pres- ence of the enemy. I have to change the arms of two regiments to- day. I shall therefore move one brigade to Leetown and one to Tab- lein-~s. iiear stone bridge, picketing the Valley from T~andridges to Boyds Gap, with frequent patrols to the enemy. A negro recently laboring iii the enemys coinmissariat, near General Earlys headquarters, came in last evening, and reports that he heard officers about headquarters s~)caking on Saturday of falling back to Sti-asburg. They have parties out fifteen an(1 twenty miles ~)urchasmg cattle. Eleven prisoners were sent to Harpers Ferry yesterday; I have sonic more to-day. Very espeetfully, & c.. WIXI. NV. AVEItELL, Thiqa (lie)-- General. IIEADQVAI:TERS SECoND CAVALRY DIVISION, I)EPARTMENT OF XVEST VIRGINIA, Near Da-kes ri/ic, September Ii, JS(i. Colonel SCHOONMAKER, First Brigade: COLONEL: The general comninanding (lesires that you will camp yon.r brigade east of Martinsbnrg, near the point oceul)ied last winter b Page 87 HAP. LWI CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 87 the Seventh West Yirgina Cavalry. You will establish a line of pienets as light as possible from Shepherds house., on the Smithfield ~ Boyds Gap, where the Tuscarora road crosses North Moun~ I am. with reserves at Big Springs and at Suttons house, near the C Ii arlestown road. You will send small patrols often and at irregular hours to the enemy, and will endeavor to have a party within his lines each night. Watch hint closely and notify headquarters of the (livision at Leetown of any movement. Report when the 1)ickets are estal)- lished. liespeetfuhly, WILL R GM SEY, A ~sistant A (ljNt((flt- (h~n era?. IIEAI)QUARTERS, Harpers Ferry, ASej)tember 14, 1R649 a. in. Hon. E. i\L STANTON, Secretarq of liar: Reconnaissance yesterday resulted in developitig enemy in force opposite our right flank. Reports from front are that a sharp fight was the resnlt. the enemy beino badly punishetl, with loss of over l0() prisoners. Will get l)articlllars during the (lay. Respectfully, JNO. 1). STEVLNSON. H AR puWs FE R i~ Y, Aepten/ her 14, i(G4. 1-Ion. F. M. STANTON, Seeretaiy of Wa: Recoin iaissance of yesterday resul te(1 in (levelopmnen t of enemy in full forcea line from near l3uaker Hill to Winchester 1)ike. The Eighth South Carolina eaptmned almost entirecolors and field officers, over 200 stroim g. After developing enemys line recOnnaissance retired. Our losses insignificant; less thami a dozen killc(l, and a few wounded. Respectfully, JNO. 1). STEVENSON, J~riqadier- General. I-h IZ PEE ~ FEE ii v. ,eptein her ii, isG-i etewifl!,. lion. E. M~SrANToN, Secretary zf War Nothimig further from the front. The captured regiment, Eighth South Carolina, Kershaws division (colonel and colors, about 20() ofti- cers ainl men) is here. The colors have been in all the heavy battles of the armies of the Potomac. Respectfully, JNO. I). STEVENSON, llriqadwr- General. II EAPQUARTERS NI 1Dni~ NI ILITARY DIVISION, September 14, 1864. B i-i gadier-General STEVENSON, (mnma-nding District of ifarpers Ferry: GENERAL: The major-general conunandin g directs that you send torward the su~)plv train of the army. nnder a stromi o ouar(l. The trai Page 88 88 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AM) PA. I (HAP. IX slioiihl ~tart at daylight to in)rrow. The of1ic~r in eharge of the giand will be held responsible for tie safPty of the train. On its arrival at Charlestown, your guard will turn over f lie train to the coumaaaad sent to that J)lace, to escort the train to tIre trout, and Will return and rCl)ort to you at llarf)ers Ferry. Y~ry respectthlly, JAS. W. FORSYTH, J4011t0U((flt- ( OlOJl( ! ((11(1 (h 0/ AI(( /1. SPRIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEI~T. OF NVES1 NJIIGiNIA, No. I I . r A(Hfl JU it I~oi~ 1, 1. Ia., A~VplC)fl0C) ii, 1S411. 3. Battery L. First Ohio Artillery, Capt. Frank C. Gibbs, is hereby relieved from (luty.in the Military 1)istriet of harpers Ferry and ~vi1l proceed immediately to these headquarters and report br duty to Capt. LI. A. 1)u I~ont chief of artiilevy. 4. Battery Ii, First West Virginia Artillery, Capt. A. C. ~\ioorc, will proceed inunediately to ilarpers Ferry. MV. Va.. and report for (Ility to Brg. Gen. John ft Steveurson, coJnmalr(Iiiig Mihitauy 1 )istrht of liar- l)els Ferry. By cOnHllall(l (if Brevet Major-General (rook: J) C. BIER. Suun~rimtz 14, 18f34, Brigadier-General TYLER. illonocatiy: If you have not already done so, send a company of cavalry to Cross Taverui, on Fre(Iericl~ puke, howard County, to scont Carrolls woods. Arrest l)oetor Ridgely, ard 1)1 oak up the gang of rebel thieves lurking in that vicinity. Levy on the property of I)oetor Ridgely aurd John S. Shipley enough to pay iNir. Johmn W. Thompson for I Ire two horses they stole from him. LEW. WALLACE, illaju ~- (b-aria 1 0/ 1 of it ittc(i5. IIEAI(vAuurinms I )EPARTMENT OF TIlE SESQEEIIANNA, (fat in hers/i a rq, J~a., AScpt(ai fn~ 1 1. 15G 1. (alit. F. I. ihuwiE, Act iaq A sP4aat Pro cost-lie rsli((f (icacraf APTAIN : I iurteurde(l to have gone llj) to harrisburg tins morning, wis1riur~ to see yom1 in reference to olisposiiig of troops to aid in enfi)re- big tire draft, & e. As I may not be dowuin, l)iease let me kurow wirat toree you wish to have phiced at your disposal. For the l)reseurt, I believe it well to have two compauries of; say, vetorans, together within tire mollulted Incur left iii Colnmbia (onurty, tire loyal citizens bejur in H sortie alarm for Piar of tire veurgeaurce of their enemies in ease they are left nmnl)riAe(tcd. 1 aumm directed by the honorable Seeretary of War to hold umnyselt in readiness to leuril aury aid to the draftiurg officers bluat mmnay be irecoleit. I ann, captainn, very resficetlully. your obedierrt servairt, 1). N. COUCh!, I/a -- (icaci-af, (oamaaadiaq I)cJ)art ni at Page 89 CHAP. LV~1 CORUESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 89 GENEIZAL OT1I~ERS,) IIDQES. DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, No. (iS. New York City, September 14, 1864. In obemei~ce to the orders of the War Department, Bvt. Maj. Gen. J. C. 1{ol)ulsoll ~s assionedto the command of the Military l)istrict of North- em New York, to consist of the Congressional districts nmnbered from 11 to 20, inclusive, headquarters at Albany, N. Y.; and Bvt. Brig. G-en. A. S. l)iveu to the command of the Military District of Western New York, to consist of the Congressional districts nunibered froin2lto 31, inclu- sive, headquarters at Elmira, N. Y. Official communications for these ii eadqnarters from the districts above it an ted will be torwar(led tl trough the district commander. By command of Major-General Dix: I). T VAN BUREN, Colonel ((11(1 Assista at A djata at-General. NEAJI. I ~ERE x-vii~i~, VA., S~tem ber 15, 1864. (Received l(3tlt.) Lienteit amt-(iencral GRANT, City Point: I have nothing new to report thy yesterday or to 0iy There is as vet no indication of EaQ ~ detaching; and I have report titat a sitiall imuniber of l)o~Ltooi1-boats have passed through Winchester to Stephen- sons Depot, and that W. 11. F. Lees old brigade of cavalry left Staun- ton after the flood. These reports were brought by one of our soldiers who escaped from Winchester, and I questiou their reliability. The cotemy are greatly chagrined at the capture of Ucitagan attd the Eighth South Carolina Regiment; \VC got the entire organization. We are now ~-ettiu o some recruits, but in small mntmnbers. Our nicrease has l)een from returned convaleseents. It seems impossible to get at tlte enemys cavalry, as it is in poor condition an(l is kept in close on their infantry. P. II. Sl-[BRII)AN, if(liOF- General. NEAiZ BEE T~ vv1T~M-;, VA.. NI) teiii lwr 15, .1~iG49ii() p. m. (Received 4.80 a. itt. 1(hlt.) ( aptai~t EFET, ~sizt~t nt A djnta itt-General I lXCOI~ VOlt ni V ii I( oritiatiot t ho titi v our sc m V ft ntm ( nl oeper or otlter to ott ~ts sontlt ? Ilease answer. P. II. ShILl{Il)AN, iJlajor- (len era I Nm\m~ Binmvvim~nn, \A., A-lel)tetn be Th, I 861930 j). in. Bet-eL-ed 4.15 a. in. i6tlt). Ahtj. (iemt. C. C. AUGun, (iontnuonding Iiax-e you any information from your scouts from ~nlpeper or otIter poittts south ? Andersoit, wlto is temporarily a cottttnattd of Eoitg- streets (011)5, is still Itere. It scemtts sttnitge at ~e sitonid rnzaain, with otit v one division of tlte (011)5 It era. +Y .1. SIIEiiII)AN ham r- (h-ne, ott Page 90 OPERATIONS I~ N. VA., \V. VA., MD., ANI) PA. ~CIIAP. LV. SPECIAL ORDERS,) HDQES. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, K ~ ARMY CORPS, No. 230. & j)ttThlbCi Th, 1864. * 9. The Two himdrecl and fourth Regiment Pennsylvania N oluitteers having reported at these headquarters, pursuant to orders, will l)e ye- Ported without (lelay to Brig. Gem i\I. I). ilardin, coIiIrnan(liIIg division, Pu duty. * * * I~v eoiinvunnl of iVTaJor-(~eneia1 Aiigiii C. H. IlAYMONI), 1 S.SiSt(( ut A (IjUt(UIt- (hiwra 1. FIEAOQUNRTERS CAVALRY BRiGADE, Aear Fort Buffalo, Ia., & ptcmbci 15, 1YGI. Cit i~J o/ AStaft and A sststant Adjutcuit- Ge)reral CoLoNEL: I have the honor to inform you that the Thirteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment returned last night at retreat. The country by this scout has been examined from I)ifficnit Run at Foxs Ford to Farrnwell, round to Aldie. At Aldie on tire 13th nitimo [instant], on learning that iNlosby was below, the regiment moved (lown to Chan- tilly and kept parties concealed on the Centerville road and roads to the left of the Aldie pike. On the morning of the 14th moved down amid examined the country in the vicinity ot Fairfax Court-house and Centerville and between Frying Pan and Vienna. Colonel Gansevoort learned from citizens that Mosbys force has recently been increased by cavalry from the regular army, and that his numbers are 110W estimated at 5(30 men. I onutted to state in last evenings report that a party of eight guerrillas had found its way night before last into the slaughter yard attached to the brigade com* mnnssary department, carrying off with them one man and one horse. Your letter in regard to the contemplated scout by the Sixteenth New York Cavalry, although dated on the 14th, did umot reach here until this afternoon, and not in time to permit of the reginlent startin o- out to-night. I shall leave, however, to-morrow. H. M. LAZEl~LE, (ol. ASjXtC(fltlt iNcw lion Vol. Cavalry, (lomdy. Cavalry llrigadc. P. S.( olonel (San sevoorts party lost two horses killed in a skir inisli. I IEA1)QIAR TERS INI IDDLE MILITARY Divi SI( )N, 8epteiu lien 15 1 , ~G4. Brevet Major-C en eral CROoK, Commanduty At-amy of We~t Virginia: My I)EAu CROOK: Give inc the name of that young lady in Win- chester. Rodes and Rainseur moved yesterday morning toward Wjii- chester, and tile camp rumor was that they were going to pay ns back tor eal)turing the Fighth South Carolina and were ~oing to niove down the Berryville pike. This is the story of one of imbodens (leserters. Respectfully, P. II. SHEPJT)AN, 2iIa}or- General Page 91 (~HAP. LV. CORRESPONDRNCE, ETCUNION. 91 ThEA i)QVARTERS i\IIDT~LE iNlILITARY DIVISION, ~Scptcin her 15, 1%i. Brevet Major-(~eiicral (JRDOK. (Jonunanduty I)epaituient 0/ Best YiryUU(( GENERAL: The major-general commanding direct8 that you furnish one good strong regiment as a gllar(1 to the wagon traiu going to 1-lar- pers Ferry to-morrow morning. The regiment will accompany the train as far as Charlestown, remaining there until the next day, and escort the train back. Tue train will be parked abont half a mile this side of your headquarters and will start at (laylight in the morning. The connnandiiig ofticer of the escort will be held accountable for the safety of the traimi. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, Jn., A~si8tan t A (ijutant- aeneral. HEAD~VARTERS I )EPARTMIENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Acer Summit Pouut, W. Fe., September 15, 1S64. Col. L II. DUVAL, (mum a udinq Second In/Wutry Dir ision CoLONEL: The general commanding (lirects that you detail from your command your strongest regiment as a guard to the train going to 1-larpers Ferry to-morrow morning. Time reoimen t will the aec()mI)afly train as far as Charlestown, remaining there until the next (lay and escort the train back. The train will be parked about half a mile from these headquarters amA will start at (laylight in the morning. rJJlle commanding officer of the regiment will be hehi accomitable fir the salPtv of the train. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. McKINLEY, Jn., (Japtant (01(1 Acting Assistau t A (ij atant- (bin erat. UEADQVAETERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, I)EPARTMENT OF WEST YIRGi~TA, Leetowa, IY. Va.. September 15, 1R64. Alaj. ~f. GIBSON, Commanding at JIagerstown, 314.: MAJOR: I am instructed by the brigadier-general commanding to sax- to von that he is not as well satisfied as he desires to be with the conduct of affairs at the J)isinounted Camup and with the guard at Wilhiamsport. lIe has himself observed squads of three, four, five, and six men returning to their regiments with no one in charge, and no papers to show that they had authority to leave your camp. It has also been reported to him that the guard at Wilhiamsport instead of arresting individuals and parties going to your camp without authority from~i this division, permit them to pass at all hours and without author- itv. The character of the horses l)rought to this (hivision i)y some remounted muen has been such as to incline the general to the belief that the energy which he had expected to be exercised imi obtaining themn, and care in inspeetin~- them has not been exercise(l. lie dcsii es that you at once take l)ei~o1mal comnmnand of the Dismounted (i~amnp, endeavor to enforce the most perfect oider amm(I (hisciplimme there; hav Page 92 92 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANT) PA. [CHAP. LV~ the drills which have been ordered; establish guards at William sport ai d Shepherdsto we, to lrevent irrege] anti es in this command and illicit traffic ot citizens cause those guards to i)e msl)eeted, ill or(ier to see that they I)erforln their ditties; and assist the assistant quartermaster in obtaining the very best class of horses for service in this (hViSiOn in the sh )rtest possible time. I ant, major, respectfully, yonr ol)edient servant, WILL I~UMSEY, I ssi st cot t A U eta itt- (hit er(( 1. un ADQ FAItTER S Tmnn CAVALRY DIVISION. ASeptember i~3j, i5M-~ 0. ~)t. Capt. XV. A. RENO, Ch i~/ of ~tatf, Care try Forces, ]jljjcldle Military 1)iri& toa: CAPTAIN: The patrols sent out last night towar(l Winchester discov- ered no movement of the enemy, nor any indications of change in the disposition of his pickets. A small l)icket force, as usnal, was discovered on the Limestone Ridge. The regiment sent out at daylight has not returned. Owing to the fact that his horses had been without fbrage twenty-four hours, (4-eneral Chapman did not sen(1 the expeditioli to Paris last night. Very respectfully, your obedient servaiit ~J. II. WILSON, cdirr- Ge,terai, (!omm andin{j 1)itision. IIEAIDQVARTFRS i\ILY AT?X I)ISYRI(i OF TIARPERS FERRY, ffarper.~ hrt!/, N(pte)ttbrr 15, ThG.i. 1-Iou. F. XV. STANTON, & crehuj IlTar: 1-Icard from front as late as 4- p. in. ~othiiug has occurred since ic- connaissance icuorted. JohN I). STEVENSON, Isriqa 4 icr- (lea etal. GENERAL Onni - ~ lhxn~. MIL. 1)1ST. OF IIARvnns FERRY, No 4 IThrpers Ferry, Va., eI)te)uber 15, IRGI. The l)r4tvo~t mtrsluals of the several posts ot Point of Rocks, Rerlin, Sandy hook, Hirpers Feiry) all(I Martiiusbnrg will, on the 2(;tii day n ~eptcunbei 1864 close all business houses an(l shops dealing in the selling of goods, wares, an(l merchandise, and all grocery stores or places for the sale of wines, beer, or liquors at sai(i several 1)osts, except such as sh ill be inthorized to (10 business in pursuance of General Or- (lers, No. n issuA front these headquarters; aui(1 till l)(~i5O115 (loing business in viOlation of the provisions ot General Orders, No. 5, and this order after the 26th (lay of September, 1S64 will be arrested and their stocks of goods confiscated for the use and benefit of the Govern- imient of the United States. In all eases where goo(ls, wares, or merchandise shall be seize(1 for violation of the Treasury regulations or general or special military orders they will be mnunediately tnruucd over to the nearest agent of th Page 93 CHAP. LY.1 93 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. Treasury Department authorized to receive and receipt for the same, the officer turning over property so seized taking duplicate receipts for the sante, which receipts shall embody an accurate inventory of the property, express who was the owner of the same, and on what account seize(l OlIC C it was , opy of the receipt to be retained by the officci, the other to be forwarded to the supervising agent of the Treasury Depart- itient for the Seventh special agency. From and after the 26th day of September, 1864, the several express companies and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company will not be allowed to deliver goods, wares, merchandise, groceries, or liquors to ammy business houses or individuals, except such as shall have becit regularly permitted in accordance with the existing Treasury regula- tions and military or(iers regulating trade within this military (listrict. All violations of this order will subject the offender to trial and pun ish inent by military commission. By order of Brigadier-General Stevenson: H. 74. BURLElGII, Assistant Adjutant- General. BUCKHANNON, September 15, 1864. (Received Cuinberland 8.50 a. in. 16th.) General B. F. KELLEY: This county was invaded to-day by a rel)el force, an(l the county is threatened by a raid. Orr court is in session, and without any a(le- quate force here this region will be overrun. We earnestly request you to not withdraw Captain Hagans company from this place. Captain 1-lagans had a tight with rebels at Centerville, in this county, yesterday. The rebels were within nine miles of this place this morning. Our mcmi are in pursuit. In haste. F. BERLiN. SPECiAL Onnnns, lInQus. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEJIANNA, No. 217. Chambersburg, Pa., September 15, 1864. 1. Brig. Gen. 0. 5. Ferry, U. S. Volunteers, commanding Juniata l)istiict, will relieve the detachment mounted inemi from Capt. E. M. N\arre ns mounted company 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, except live privates and one non-commissioned officer, and order the same to report to the coammanding officer of tIme company near McConnehlsburg, Pa. 2. Capt. B. 74. Warren, commanding 1114hcpen(ieJIt \lounte(l Coin- I am I y 1 00-days Penn sylvania Volnuteers, will ~VOCCC( ~ without delay with his eomn~)a11y to Shimpstown, Pa., anti report to Capt. C. B. Hebble, comnmandnig at that place, for orders. 3. Lient. Col. Charles Stewart, First Battalion, 100-days Peunsyl- vania Volunteers, commanding U. S. forces in Columbia County, 1~a., will send without delay one company of the One hundred and eighty- sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers to Pliiladelph ia, l~a., with orders to report to Maj. Geim. George Cadwahader, military coin- ma nder. The (luarterni asters departmneut will fain i sh time mm ecessary transportation. * By comnman(l of Majom--Genei-al Couch: ~1NO. S. SCHULTZE, Major and Assistant Adjmttant- Genera Page 94 94 OPEPATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Mi)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. H nQus. I)EPARTMEIN T OF X\A5ILINGTON, 221) ARMY CORPS, Washington, & pternbcr 16, 1861. MiaJor-General SHERIDAN, Oomdy. Middle Division, Berryville, Fe.: A deserter from the Eieventh Virginia Cavalry, who delivered him- self up to Lazelle, reports that he made his way from Richmond via Lynebburo-, Culpeper, and Warrenton. He repoits no trool)s at the two latter l)laces excel)t a small gflar(l; a small guar(l also at the Iiiapidan railroad bridge. Lazelle has gone with his regiment to this l~ridge; left this morning. I have good reasons for believing that the troops that my scout reported as leaving Gordonsville for Richmond were Picketts division, who were on the way to the Va by the affair ou the Weldon railroad. iley% but recalled C. C. AUGUR, iLc~jor- (/euicral. iNI~itiii. battery and a l)attalioli of cavalry left br your headquarters yesterday. About 800 infantry, convaleseents, & c., leave for same place to-day. C. C. A. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. 1)EPARTMEN T 01 WASHI N C TON, TWENTY-SECONI) ARMY CORPS, No. 231. S September 16, 1861. * - * * (5. The Twenty-fourth at id Twenty-fifth Unattached C ~m pat ties Massachusetts heavy Artillery, having reported at these lteadquarters in obedience to orders, will be reported ~vithout delay to Brigadier- General Hardin, commanding division, for duty. * By conimattd of Major-General Augur: C. 11. RAYMONH 15t5$i5t((Ut Adjutant- (1deC01. ALEXANDRIA, AS(ptcm ber 16, iS6 1. Colonel TAYLOR, Assistant Adjatani- General : (Received 8 p. itt.) COLONEL: The patrols report all quiet. I Itave Thur retugees from Fredericksburg who report that the rebels are running trains on the Fredericksburg railroad daily front Richmond to within Thor ittiles of Fredericksburg. Titey ate trallsl)ortino old rao-s, 01(1 iron, such as shot and shell and all sorts of 01(1 stuff fbuitd out on the fields, to mcii- inond. H. it. WELLS, I ice tenant- to ion ci ((nd Pro cost-Jib r54 ((1- General. HEADQUARTERS CA \TALR Y El?, I(+AI)E, Ac(u Port Bu.fftdo, Va., September 16, 1861. Licut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Clwf oJ Staff and Asst. Adjt. (len.: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing- of importance to report front this vicinity. I shall leave to-itight with 300 men. Very- respectfully, your obedient servattt, H. IM. IAZIThLE Cal. ASJXt entk Wv York Vol. ~arairy, Co ndy. Cavalry i1ri~ade Page 95 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 95 HnQu~. CAVALRY i)iyisioy, DEn. on WEST XTILW-INJA, Leetown, September 16 1864!) .1 0 p. lit. Colonel FORSYTH: Patrols have picked up and just brought in a deserter who says he saw a lady last evening from Newtown who reported that Kershaws (liViSioll was passing through there toward Staunton. lie saw the la(ly at Mr. Friezes, six miles from Brucetown. lie belonos to the Tenth North Carolina Jnthntry, an (1 his statement is contused. WM. W. AVERELL, Dreret Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECONI) CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT on WEST VIRGiNIA, Leetown, W. Va., September 16, idUl. Major C-IBSON, (Jonunandiny Dismo anted Camp: MAJOR: The general desires that you detail 400 men, armed with the longest range arms, from Dismounted Camp, leaving their sabers behind, and forward them to these headquarters. You will organize them into eight companies of lifty irien each. They will be officered here. IRolls will be made by you and forwarded with the macn. Respectfully, W1LL RUMSEY. Major and Assistant A djut ant- General. CUMBEREAND, ASptember 16, 16619.40 a. m. Capt. P. (A-. Bwm~, Assistant Adjutant-General The following telegram* just received. I have no Three to spare tioin the railroad to scud to Buekhaiinon. 1, therefore, respectfully ask that Captain ilagaus be permitted to remain ill Upsliur County nittil he can be relieved by other troops. B. F. KEELEY, Brevet ]liajor- General. BIT CKIIANN ON, eptember 16, 166-i. Licut. CHARLES A. FREEMAN, Cu ~u berla ad, 31(1. lust returned from a chase of the enemy. Jackson has (lisbalided his regiment and sent them in squads to this county to steal horses. Captain liagans had a severe fight with them on the 14th at Center- yule. Captain Campbell, of Jacksons regiment, lies mortally wounded at Burchtown. E. FREY, Ca~pta in. CITMEERLANID, ASeptember 16, 1d64. Colonel XXILKINSON, Clarlisbnry: Hagans company must be held till I hear from General Crook. 13. F. 1& ELLEY, Brevet Major- General. See I3erlivi to ~eliey, Sept tuber 1., p. 93 Page 96 96 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MIX, ANJ) PA. [CHAP. LV. CuwnEnJ~ANi), ~Scpte,n ber 16, 1864. Col. N, WILKINsoN (JlarAsbwrq Order Colonel Youart to send one ~omi~aiiy of his coitimami to re-enforce ilagans. 13. F. KELLEY, Brevet ]Jliajor- General. I3uCKnANN ON, & j)hh? ber 16, ISbi. Lieutenant-Colonel YouAnT. Comma fl(iiity, Bereriy About seventy men of Jacksons command iii tipper part of this county, supposed to be making for Webster. Report to-(lay at 12 oclock that between 300 and 400 rebels were en route for this place and Weston; if this is correct will advise you. 1-1. H. ITAGANS. Captain. I had quite a brush with them day betire yesterday above Ceitter- yule, killing 4, including I captain. My loss was 1 man wounded and 2 horses killed.* (Received 12 iii.) Maj. Gei~. ii. W. ITALLECK, (hi~f ol AStafl: I leave for 13a.lthnore in a few minutes. 1101(1 all new regiments coming into service in\\aslnngtoii until further orders. It is possible, though iiot probable, that Sheridan may want to throw a force sud- denly into Hagerstown. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAsHINGTON, I). C., & ~ptember 17, 186 i1.() j). m. Lieutenant- General GRANT, Baltimore: Dispatch from iHarpers Ferry receive(1. Orders were given sonic days ago to sen(l all infantry regiments and recruits in the Northern States from Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and 13 altiinore to City Point by water, on account of the numerous (lesertions. I)o you incait that these orders be suspeu(ie(l and the new regiments brought here, or simply to retain what are now here and ou their way bereL? II. W. JIALLECK, Major- General aud Chiof of Slaty. BALTIMORE, MD., & 1)teJflber 17,18615 p. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Major-General JIALLECK, Washinqton: I will not leave Baltimore for City- Point until to-morrow evening. In the meantime I shah go to Burlington, N. J., to make arrangements for sending my children to school. U. S. URANT, Lieutenant- Geucra 1. See also Part I, P. 639 Page 97 CHiP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 97 SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY I)IVISIoN, No. 37. AS1eptember 17, 1864. * * * * 2. Lient. James Chester, Third U. S. Artillery, is hereby appointed acting ordnance officer of the Horse Artillery Brigade, serving with the cavalry, and ordered to report to Capt. L. L. Livingston, chief of artillery. * * * * *. * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 232. September 17, 1861. * * * * * * 5. The Two hundred and twelfth Regimeiit Pennsylvania Volunteers (Sixth Artillery), having reported to these headquarters pursuant to orders, will be reported without delay to Brigadier-General De Russy, commanding division, for assignment to duty. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Augur: C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Va., September 17, 1861. Licut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Cit ief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. Colonel Lazelle and party, consisting of 271 men of the Sixteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry and 50 men of the Thirteenth New York Cavalry, went out at 3 oclock this morning-. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Ii. S. GANSEVOORT, Col. Thirteenth New York- Vol. (~aralry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Berryrilie, Va., September 17, 1864. Brigadier-General RAWLINS, Chief of Staff, Armies of the United States: GENERAL: A letter received by Colonel Sharpe, commanding Third Brigade, Second I)ivision, of the Nineteenth Army Corps, from a staff officer of Major-General Canby, conveys the information to this corps that there are being organized two divisions. whh Division, now in Louisiana, are to ~ with the Third comprise the Nineteenth Army 4 H XLlII, PT I Page 98 98 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CIA?. L~. Corps, and that he supposes the two divisions here are to be assigned to some other corps. The effeot of this announcement on this corps is such that I think it right to address the general-in-chief directly on the subject, in place of sending it through the commander of tine corps and the commander of the Division of the West Mississippi, whose distance is so great that the mischief may be done before they can remedy it, which I know, from the high character of the officers, they woul4 do promptly as soon as the facts are brought to their notics. Those facts are as follows: The whole of the oripinal Nineteenth Army Corps, composed of the First and Second Divisions, now here and at Harpers Ferry, numbering some 13,000 fighting men, embrace all the regiments, with the exception of two or three scattered abeut the Department of the Gulf; that belong to the Nineteenth Army Corps The Third Division, left behind, was a division transferred - y from the Thirteenth Army Corps just before our departure from New Orleans, and formed no p art of the original Nineteenth Army Corps. The Thirteen orps was abelished as an organization, and the effect of the present movement will be, what could never have been designed, to, in fact, abolish the Nineteenth Army Corps as an organization and substitute In its place the Thirteenth Army Corps, for it is of the fragment of this corps that the two divisions in question must be composed. The good feeling between the Thirteenth and Nineteenth Army Corps would no doubt make the Nineteenth Army Corps glad to have the Thirteenth Co s as their successors; but it must be evident that the transfer of the Nineteenth Army Corps proper, with all its insignia,lts brilliant record of battlesfor, although involved in some rn-designed campaigns, it has never yet been ~eally whipped must act as a damper on, if i1~does not demoralize, the 13,000 of as well- disciplined and as good fighting men as the army has in its ranks. The men now here have campaigned together for nearLy three years. They understand each other and support each other with great cor- dish, in battle, and to break up this organization at this time, and transfer their history and their records to an organization which tine Government has seen fit onceto discontinue, would, inmy opinion, much lessen the efficiency of these men and be litiurious to the public service. I therefore respectfully suggest that they may be permitted to retain their present designation and organization ; or, if the act has gone past recall, that they be retained as an or ~zation and numbered as the First, Thir4, or some other corps whic has ceased to exist and has no identity. There are nowin this corps seven brigades and quite enough regiments, if tiled up, to complete two more bngades, an e officers are quite sure they could fill their regiments promptly, if they could be permitted to go home for that purpose. I have the honor to be, your obedient EMORY, Brevet M#jor-Geser4 Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAvALRY, MIDDLE MusTAlrr DivIsIoN, September 17, 18641 .p. a. General MnrnTT: GEIInAL: The chief of cavalry desires you to detail one good-sized regiment from your command to proceed at once to Harpers Ferry to escort the trains to the front, which are ordered tp leave that place at 5 a. m. the 18th instant. Martins mid Peirces batteries are also coin- Page 99 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 99 jug to the front with the trains, to relieve two batteries now here. Please direct the coninianding ofticer of the regiment detailed to have accoinpanyn g dispa I cites delivered as early as possible. Very respectfully, WiVI. RUSSELL, Jn., Assistant Adjutant- General. II EADQI7ARTERS CAVALRY ,M1DI)LE MILiTARY DivisioN, & ptembCr 17~ 1(SUI9 mm. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The duet of cavalry (meets that you sell(l one regiment to-iuiorrow a. m. to Seivers~ Ford, and one regit utent fo Eock& s For(1, on the (Jpequon, to iuiake a (leIllollstratioli. Let them show themselves as much as possible, alI(l then quietly withdraw and return to camp. During the day have your officers learn the iuiost (hirect roads from your l)reseItt canip to the crossing of the Opequon by the l3erryvi]le and Winchester pike. After the arrival of the trains have the subsistence an(l forage issued as quickly as possible, and the trains assembled to return near your headquarters. I am, general, very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, ~Tu., Assistant Adjutant- General. I IEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDIILE MILITARY i)IvlsioN, & j)tember 17, 16b9 p. m. General WILSON, Third if irision GENERAL: The chief of cavalry (lirects that you sen(l one regiment to-norro~v a. in. to uumake a deinoiistration at the crossing of the Opequon 1w the Berryville and Winchester l)ike. Have them show tueniselves as utmuch as l)ossible, and then quietly withdraw and return to camp. Upon the arrival of the trains to-morrow a. n. have the sabsistence aiid forage issued as quickly as possible, and the trains assembled at some convenient point to return nt once. I am, general, very respecf fully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, ~Ju., itssistant A (ijutant- General. HEADQITARTER8 TI-IIRD CAVALRY IhyIsIeN, oSeptember 17. 1861. Brigadier-General MCINTOSH, (iomnandiug First Br/ga(le GENERAL: Pursuant to instructions received from the chief of cav- alry, you will send one regiment fi-oni your brigade to-morrow morning to make a demonstration at the ci-ossing of the Opequon by the Berry- yule and Winchester pike. have themut show themselves as much as l)Ossihle, and then quietly withdm-aw and return to calnl). By commnan(l of Brigadiem--Genei-al N\ilsoiu: L. S[EIlERT, ~f s-sistunt it djutant- General Page 100 100 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CIIAP. LV. HARPERS FERRY, Septem ber 17, 1861. (Received 18th.) I3revet Major-General KELLEY, (Jumberland: The commanding general directs that Captain Tiagans company, of First West Virginia, remain at Buckhannon until relieved by a coni- pany that General Duffi~ has been ordered to send to take its place. P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 73. Baltimore, September 17, 1864. Paragraph 2, Special Orders 214, headquarters Middle Department, August 26, 1864, is hereby revoked. All persons in possession of horses or mules, left by the rebels upon their retreat from this department, are hereby (lirecte(1 to turn them over to the nearest quartermaster of the army, who will account for the same to Lieutenant-Colonel Bliss, qnartermaster Eighth Army Corps. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAME. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQuS. THIRD SEPARATE BRIG., EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, ~, 4., September 17 1864. Baltimore M Licut. Col. S. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- Generql, Eighth Army Corps, Baltimore, lid.: COLONEL: Herewith inclosed I have the honor to forwTar(I you a roster of the station Df each company and detachment of tioops in my command. For the future all changes will be noted as directed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY H. LOCKWOOD, Brigadier- General, Corn m anding. Linclosure. Troops in the Third Separate Brigade, Eighth Army Corps. Tenth Regiment Veteran Reserve (Corps, Col. 1). P. l)e Witt: Coin- panics C and F, Fort No. 1 and vicinity; Company D, Fort No. 4, and Company B, Fort Worthin gtoii. Veteran Reserve Corps: Seventy-first Company, Second Lient. R. 4. Sutherland, Pattersoi~ Park, Baltimore. Seventy secon(1 Company, First Lient. F. P. Gross, Jarvis Hospital, I mltnaoi e Eighty-niiitli Company, First Lient. Nelson Bronsoii, C mmdcii Street Hospital. Ninety-fifth Company, First Lient. V. K. Spear, P rtterson Park, Baltimore. One hundred and forty-third ( ompaux Second Lient. Horatio Roberts, Wests Bni I di a g, Baltimore. One hundred and ninety-fonith Penasylvani ~ N olunteers: Conipa- nies A, B, 1), B, and F, Col. James Na.,lc. (~iap Carrolloiie officer and thirty men at Eastern Maiyl and for duty with Captain Leon- ard, provost marshal. (0Th 1 ai ijes C and C, C al)tain r Pott and 4 oh a Bell, provost-u arsh a B i gli t h Array Corps. Company K, Captain Updegraff, Salisbury (mounted) Page 101 CHAP. LV] COR1~ESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 101 Eighth Massachusetts Volunteers, Col. B. F. Peach, Northern Cen- tral Railroad, headquarters at Cockeysville: One company at Park- tori~ and Mon ktou; one company at Sparks Station and Gleneoe, and Company F at Cockeysvi]le. Company A. Capt. L. A. Tifft, Baltimore (guard duty at provost-marshals office, Eighth Army Corps). Com- pany K, Capt. IL. Butler, Baltimore (at the offices of Provost-Marshals Catlicart and Blumenberg). Company B, Capt. 11. M. Lyons, Balti- more (MeKims Hospital). Company G, Capt. Ed. L. Rowe, Annames sex, Eastern Shore of Maryland. Om ic hundred an ci ninety-third Penn sylvam ii a Volunfeers: Coumpany B, ~japt. J. C. Euwer, Tiavre de Grace, Md. Company C, Capt. J. Dorringtou, Bush River. Company 1-1, Capt. James li. Macormnac, Havre de Grace. Company G, Capt. James E. Crow, Gunpowder River Bridge. Company K, Capt. Isaac Wright, Back River. Company B, First Eastern Shore Maryland Volunteers, Capt. J. E. Graham, I)eals Island. Smiths Independent Maryland Cavalry, Capt. George W. P. Smith, Camp Carroll, Baltimore. - CHAMBERSEIJEG, PA., September 17, 1864. (Received 1.45 p. in.) Col. E. D. TowNsE~n, Assistant Adjutant- General: During the fall I want to visit Massachusetts for seven days and judge this will be the best time for me to leave. Matters will be quiet tii~r uiext twelve days, as far as draft is concerne(l, and I do not now believe there will be any serious opposition to it. I). N. COUCH, Major- General. SPECINL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 218. Charnbersburg, Pa., September 17, 1864. 1. Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding Two hundred and first Regi- ment Pennsylvania Volunteers, will send two companies from his regi- memmt, nuder time command of the major of the same, to Bloody Rumi, Pa., with orders to report to Brig. Gen. 0. 5. Ferry, U. S. Volunteers, commanding Juniata l)istrict, for duty. 2. Capt. John G. Wilson, Company B, First Battalion, 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed without delay with lmis company and report to Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, near Chambersburg, Pa., for orders. 3. Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding Two hundred and first Regi- muent Pennsylvania Volunteers, will send without delay one company fromn his regiment to York, Pa., with orders to report to Surg. Saint John W. Mimmtzer, U. S. Volunteers, in charge P. 5. Army General Hospital at that place, for duty. The quartermasters (lepartinent will fumnish the necessary tramm sportation. By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 102 102 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV 13ALTIMoI~n, Mi)., 8fJ)tembu 18, 1861. (Received 6.15 m in.) Major-General IIALLECJi, (ihhf 0/ & aff.~ I leave immediately for Fortress Monroe an(l City Point. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Near Berryrille, September 18, 18647 p. m. (Reecived 9.50 a. in. 19th.) Major-General MEADE: it is impossible that Kershaws division can be at Petersburg. On the 13th Wilson captured one regiment of the (liViSiOll. The entire (livisioli was then here. On the 17th it was reporte(l to me that it was moving south. This has not yet been verified, but will be to-morrow. P. II. SIIERJI)AN, Major- General. SPECI~ ORDERS, UDQR5. MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISIoN, AS eptem be 18, 1864. * * * * * 4. First Lient. V. Allen, Corps of Engineers, having reported at these headquarters for (Ility, is aimouneed as serviiig oii the staff of the major- ocueral commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. * * * * * 6. Lient. Col. C. Ross Smith, Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, is hereby relieved from duty as provost-marshal, Middle Military iDivision, and will ploeee(I to harpers Ferry, to be mustere(i out by the assisk ut commissary of musters of the First Cavalry Division. * * * * * * 13x- conimand of Major-General Sheri(lan C. KINGSBURY, JR., itssmtan t A (Ijutant- Gen eral. CIRCULAR.] hEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Berryrilie, Va., September IR, 1864. Corps an(l other independent comm an(lerS will I iave their commands in readiness to march at 9 p. in. to~nioht All regimental and other wagons that will ineonvenienee the quick movement of the troops will be parked at Summit Point with the supply train, and sent under guard to Harpers Ferry at 3 p. in. to-day. By conu~iand of Major General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTh, (Jhuj 0/ Stafr. ORDERS.1 HEADQUARTERS MiDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Aea r Berryrille, Va., September 18, 1864. This command will mote to-morrow morning at 2 oclock in the fol- lowing order and on the following designated routes: 1. The cavalry division oh Brigadier-General Wilson will move on Winchester via the Berryville pike, and will drive in the enemys cav- alry on that pike and follow them up Page 103 CHAP. LV.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 103 2. The Sixth Corps will move from its present camp across the coun- try to the crossing of Opequon Creek by the Berryville pike, arid will a(lvance towar(l Winchester on said pike. As soon as it has reached the open country it will torni in line of battle, frontin iii the direction of Stephensons 1)epot, unless the (levelol)rnents which may occur cause other (lispositions to be made. 3. The Niiieteenth Corps will march by the l3erryville pike, and when the head of the column reaches the crossing of the creek the command- mo offi cer will report to Major-General Wright for instructions. The line of battle of the Nineteenth Corps will be formed under (lirectioli ot M~jor-General Wright. The utmost promptitude should be exer- cised in the formation of this line of battle. 4. General Crook will march his command to the crossing of ()peqnon Creek by the Berryville pike, and be held there as a reserve to be marched to any point required. 5. The cavalry divisions of General Merritt and General Averell will be governed by such directions as they may receive from the chief of cavalry. Corps commanders will be required to furnish strong guards for the protection of their traiims. Corps commanders will be notilied of the location of army headquarters. By command of Major-General Sheridan JAS. W. FORSYTH, LiCUtC?Witt- Colonel and (ilwj of St~ff WAsmu~GToN, September 18, 1864. Major-General AUGUR, Commanding, Washington: GENERAL: You will have ready for orders early to-morrow morning one regiment of Veteran iteserves. It may be necessary to SCn(l it by rail to the West. Three days l)rovis~o~~s should therefore be ready for issue. The question of sending it may possibly be decided to-night. 11. W. 1-LALLECK, iihijo~- General 0114 CItief of Statl HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Aear Fort Balfalo, Va., September 18, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief ~/ Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General COLONEL: II have the honor to inform you that there is notiming of imuportanee to report from this vicinity. Colonel Lazelle anti party have mmot been h& ard from. Front informuation received here, whiclm is considered reliable in an attack on one of the l)icket-posts near this camp omm the miight of August 31, Lientemmaut Fox, of Mosbys battalion, was wounded in the arm. Amputation was afterward performed amiti he (hieti fromn effects of the samne, three or four (lays ago, in Dranesville. Q~wo others of his party were badly wounded; one of them seriously in the knee. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, ii. S. GANSEVOORT, Colonel Thirteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Car. Brigade Page 104 104 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~OIIAP. LV~ HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MImmE MILITARY I)JVISJON, September 18, 186412 m. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry (lirects that you send a good regi- ment to the crossing of the Opequon by the Berryville and Winches- ter pike, to take position on the Limestone Ridge just this side of the creek. The regiment should get there about sundown. The balance of your command will be ready to move to that point by 9 oclock to- night. Leave pickets at the different fords from the Berryville and Winchester pike down to Lockes Ford. The chief of cavalry has directed General Averell to send men to the ford at Smithfield, an dyou will have your pickets withdrawn from Lockes Ford to Smithfield and join your division. I am, general, very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assista at A djatant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE IVI IL [TAR v DIvisIoN, September 18,1864. General MERRITT: GENERAL: Have your trains unloaded as soon as possible, and as- sembled near General Crooks headquarters near Summit Point before 3p.m. By command of Brevet Major-General Torbert: WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjntant- General. (Same to General Wilson.) HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, General MERRITT, September 18. 1864. Comm an cling First Division: GENERAL: Have all wagons collected near your headquarters, to go to the rear with -the train, except two wagons and ambulance to divis- ion headquarters, two to brigade headquarters, ambulances and the smallest number of ammunition wagons you may think it safe to take. Send the forges back. A. T. A. TORBERT, Brevet iilia jar- General. IIEADQUARTEImS CAVALRY, & C., September 18, 1864. General MERRITT: The army will start at 2 oclock to-night to Winchester via the Berry- yule and Winchester pike. General Wilson will be in advance of the infantry. The fords you go to are near the Winchester railroad, j ast to the left as you go out. Watch well the tbrds on the creek and the mnovemnemits of the enemy. One division of infantry of the enemy was iu Martinsburg today, and another at Bunker 11111. Averell will be directed to watch them well, and follow them, if they move, so as t Page 105 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, 1120.UNION. 105 make a junction with you. You, of course, will have to be governed by circumstances, but the move means fight. They cant help but cow centrate their infantry on Sheridan, au(1 if you and Averell can join we will pitch into their rear. 1 will join you early in the morning. The greatest promptness will be exercised iii the above. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry. TIEADQITARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 18, ISG18 ~ ifl. Brigadier-General MERRITT, First Division: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you move with your division to-morrow at 2 a. m. to Gilberts and Seivers Fords, on the Opequon. If opposed only by the enemys cavalry, you will cross the creek at daylight and follow them up. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant A ~jnt ant- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, I)EPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA, September 18, 18G410 a. in. Brevet Major-General TORBERT, Ckief of Cavalry: The enemys patrols were unusually active last night. One party of five came across the Opequon between my pickets between Dandridges and Porterfields Fords and endeavored to capture one of our patrols, wounding one, but not succeeding in capturing any. They displayed extraordinary Vigilance at Bunker Hill, at dark having a skirmish line of about 500 men deployed, and the country thence to the Ope- quon was filled with small parties. This morning they have advamed nearly to Martinsburg by last report. It is reported that twenty-five ~vagons were seen in rear of their column. They are being observed closely. A Confederate officer, reported to a rel)el citizen that they illten(led to hold the hue of the Potomac this whiter. Respectfully, WI\I. W. AVEIIELL, Brevet Major- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA, ASeptember JR P-?61---11 in. .30 a. Colonel FORSYTH: Patrol from Darkesville reports no enemy moving on the road in i-ear of those who have advanced toward Martiimsburg. The wire is cut between Kearneysville and llarper~s Ferry, and train reports hav- ing seen a dozen men in gray near Dufflelds. I will send information promptly as soon as I get it, but your signals are slow. WM. W AVERELL, Brevet Major- General Page 106 106 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. tOHAP. IN. HIJQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPT. OF WEST YHrnINIA, Sjptcm her 18, 1864 12 m. ColOnel FonsiTil: Prisoners just brought in from Bunker 11111 state that Rodes and Gordons divisions of infantry, with a brigade of cavalry, wciit toward Martinsburg this morning. Colonel Schoomnaker has been driven across stone bridge by infantry and artillery, but is contesting his ground. WM. W. AVEIiELL, lIre ret Miajo r- General. CONFIDENTIAL IJDQRS. CAV. l)IV., DEPT. OF W. VA., CIRCULAR ORDER. September 18, 1864. This division will move to Darkesville this evening, arriving there at 6 p. m. The men will be furnished with three days rations froni to-morrow morning, and after arriving at Darkesyille one days forage will be issued for to-morrow. Brigade commanders will be held respon- sible that every man has forty rounds of ammunition; Spencers with sixty. It must be carried on their persons. A rear guard will be organized for each brigade, who will arrest all stragglers on tIme march and shoot them if in battle. The company coinfllan(lCrs tiom whose companies stragglers are found will be rel)orted daily to these head- quarters. WiVI. W. AVEItELL, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Septembe~ 18, 18648 p. rn. General WILSON: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry (hirCets, in pursuance of or(lers from heaclqnarters Middle Military l)ivision, that you move with your (hivis- ion at ~ a. in. to-morrow on Winchester, via the Berryville pike. Upon reaching the enemys l)ickets you will drive them in and follow them up. The Sixth Corps will move at the same hour across country to time Berryville and Y~immhiester pike crossing of the Opequon. The great- est proinl)tm~ess will be exercised in carrying out the above. Very respectfully, ~ RUSSELL, JR., A ~sP4ant A djn tan t- (icueral. SEPTEMBER 18, 1864. Captain SIEBERT: CAPTAIN: As soon as trains are discharged let them be sent to Summit Point to join the army trails at that place. I)irect Captain Shill to start at once for six wagon-loads of ammunition, and have them here by 8 p. in., if possible. Let him take a small escort. Tell the captain to take our mail. Very respectfully, J. 11. WILSON, Brigadier- General Page 107 CHAP. tV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, E1~C.UNION. 107 HAnPERS FERRY, VA., September 18, 18G48 ~. m. I-ion. E. N. STANTON, Secretary (~/ War Nothing new for past two days. General Sh~-idan moves on enemy at daylight. To-day enemy attacked Averell in force, and drove him. To-night his command reported at Shepherdstown. lie reports that lie was attacked by two divisions of iifi~ntry. No particulars of the affair. The firing continued at intervals for several hours. The enemy commenced attack at Bunker 11111. All trains sent to rear. JNO. Ii. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 18, 18G12.3() a. m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, (Jommantling Dist~ct of Harpers Perry: GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to acknowledge the receipt of your note relative to arming and equipping recruits, convalescents, and stragglers, and to say, in reply, that as the arniy at the present moment is on the maich, that no details can well be made, but the subject will be attended to in a few days. Very respectfully, & c., ~AS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. JIEADQITARTERS MIDDLE id ILITARY DIVISION, k)(~ptember 1~5, iSGI. Brig. Gen. J. liE STEVENSON Corn )nafldiflfJ PiNtrict of Harpers Perry GENERAL: I will march against the enemy to-morrow. 1 have every confidence in your ability to hold Harpers Ferry and protect the trains that are there. I have no important news to communicate., except that a l)ortn)ll of the enemys inthntry marched this morning in the direction of MartilIsl)urg. I have no regrets at their having done [so]. I do iiot know whether 1 shall be able to keel) my communication with Harpers Fem-ry or not. T)o not be niieasy if 1 (10 not do so. Very respectfully, P. Ii. SHERII)AN, JIliaf or- (Jenerat, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY i)IVISION, September 18 1~%4. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding District of ham-pers Perry: GENERAL: I am directed by the majcr-general commuanding to informn you that General Crook has two regiments of infantry garrisoning Cliarlestown at presemmt; and in case they are pressed or have any trouble, you will draw tlmenm into Harpers Ferry and keep them on duty at that point. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff Page 108 108 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LUIIAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WE ST VIRGINIA, Near Sum nut Point, IF. Ira., September 18, WGI. Brig. Geit. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Comdg. JJiil. Dist. of Ha#pers Ferry, Harpers Ferry, IF. Va.: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you send the detachment of the Fifth West Virginia Cavalry, now in Pleasant Valley, Md., and the detachment at Sleepy Creek, W. Ma., also all other men of this regiment now within the limits of yonr command, to Cu mnber- land, Md., without delay, to report to Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. Kelley, as it is desired to concentrate all the men of that regiment at that l)]a(e, without delay, with a view to their reorganization. I am, gener~ml, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. U. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HANCOCK, ~eptember 18, 1864. (Received 7.35 a. m. 19th.) Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY: The rebels, about 400 strong, came in to Back Creek to-day, about one hour after the iron-clad had left, and burnt the bridge. They then starte(l by the Warm Springs road, and told citizens they were going to burn Sleepy Creek bridge. ~?hey are reported well mounted and well arlne(l. The men at Sleepy Creek have not two rounds of amnmunitiou (ipiece. If the men at Sleepy Creek are safe this a. in., 19th, what orders for theum? Citizens near Back and Sleepy Creeks ~ay rebels told them our forces at Martinsburg were whipped out of town this a. in., 18th. FRANK [B. MILLER]. PHILADELPHIA, Septenuber 18, 186 i12 m. Major-General WALLACE: I~lease (letain the Fortress Moni-oc boat until this 5 p. in. 1 am miow just leaving Philadelphia. V. S. GRANT, Lientena nt- General. CHAMBERSIBITIWX, I~ A., AV/)tC)nhCi 18, 18647 j. in. (61. F. D. TOWYSEND, (Reeeive(l 9 }~. in.) Assistant Adjutant-General I~lease withdraw- my application of yesteV(lay for leave I). N. COUCII, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. I)EPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 219. Chanubersbarg, Pa., September 18, 1864. I. Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding Two hundred and first Regi- miment Pennsylvania Volunteers, will send without (lelay OflC compan Page 109 Ow. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 109 to Scranton, Pt, with orders to report to Capt S. N Bradford, pro- vost-marshal Twelfth Congressional District, for duty. The quarter- masters department will furnish the necessary transportation by rail- road. 2. Lieut. Aubrey Henry, commanding Railroad Troop, Independent Mounted Company (100-days) Pennsylvania Volunteer~ will proceed without delay with the same to Eaton, Pt, and reportto Ca Sam- uel Yohe, provost-marshal Eleventh District, Pennsylvania,~ for duty. The quartermasters department will furnish the necespary transports- tion. 3. Lient. CoL Charles Stew~ First Battalion 100-days Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, commanding U. S. forces in Columbia County, Pt, will relieve the remaining company of the One hundred and eighty- sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers from duty in thatcounty, and order it to proceed without delay to Philadelphia, Pt, and report to Majc GeL George Cadwalader, U. S.Volunteers, military commander, for duty. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. 0. Lient. CoL Charles Stewart, First Battalion 100-days Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, commanding U. S. forces in Coiumbia County, Pt, will proceed without delay with three companies of 100-days infantry and half of the Independent Mounted Company, under the command of the first lieutenant, to Muncy, Pt, and await orders from Ca t. Rich- ard L Dodge, U. S. Army, acting provost-marshal-general, Western Division of Penusylvanit a S S 5 0 S By command of Ma~jor-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Aaeiets~nt A4jutant-GVea.ral. HEADQUaTne DEnETnIIT oi TEE SusQUEKaNA, Okassb.ruburg, Pa., & pteraber 18,1864. Lient. CoL Cn.rnzs STEWART, flrn Battalion, 100-day. Pennsylvania Volunteers: CoLONEl: The commandin1 general directs that upon receipt of paraqraph8, Special Orders, o. 9, from these headquarters, of the 18th instant, that you will march without delay with that portion of your command mentioned therein to Muncy, and await orders Sm Capt. B. I. Dodge, U. S. Army, acting assistant provost-marshal-gen- eral. Upon your rival at Muncy report at once by letter to Captain Dodge. You are also directed not to let it be known where you are going. Captain Woods, assistant quartermaster, will remain with the troops in Columbia County. You will direct the senior officer present with troops you leave at Columbia County to assume command, and forward at once a report of the same to these headquarters. You will also forward monthly and tn-monthly returns to these headquarters as heretofore. I am, colonel, very respeotfully, your obedient servant, JNO. S. SCHUJI.FZE, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 110 110 OPERATiONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. NEW YORK, & ~ptember 18, 1361. Maj. Gen. JOHN C. ROBINSON, Janesrille, lVis. You will repair to Albany as SOOII as the state of your health will l)erIIiit. JOhN A. 1)IX, Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., & ))tClflbCr 19, lSb18.30 p. m. (Received 9 i. in.) Major-General IJALLECK, Uhiej oJ St((ft: A large part of the convalesceiits sent tioin Alexandria here belong to the Sixth and Niiieteenth Corps, alI(l la~ve to be immediately returne(l. Please direct time commanding officer there to caution the provost-mar- shal agailist making this mistake. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WINCHESTER, VA., & pternber 19, 18617.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have the honor to report that I attacked the forces of General Early on the Berryville l)ike at time crossing of Opequon Creek, and after a most stubborn and sanguinary engagement, which lasted from early in the morning until 5 oclock in the evening, completely defeated him ,and, driving him through Winchester, captured about 2,500 prisoners, 5 pieces of artillery, 9 army flags, and most of their wounded. The rebel General Rodes and General Gordon were killed, and three other general officers wounded. Most of the enemy s wounded and all their killed fell into our hamids. Our losses are severe, among themim General D. A. Rus- sell, commanding division iu the Sixth Corps, who was killed by a cami- non-ball. Generals Upton, McIntosh, an(l Chapmnan are wouuded. I cannot yet tell our losses~ The conduct of time officers and men was most superb. They charged amid carried every position taken up by the rel)e15 from the Opequon Creek to Winchester. The cuenmy were strong in umumber ammd very obstinate in their fighting. 1 desire to mention to the lieutenant- general commamiding the army the gallant con- duct of Generals Wi-ight, Crook, Emory, Torbert, and time officers and meu under their comnmnaimd; to them the country is imidebted for this haimdsonme victory. A more detailed rel)ort will be forwarded. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. ORDERS.] IIEADQIJARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Winchester, September 19, 1864. The army will move at 5 a. in. to-morrow, and in the following order: The cavalry will be moved under the special direction of Brevet Major- General Torbert, chief of cavalry. Time Sixth Corps, Major-General Wright comumimamuding, will move at the above minamimed Imour on the west side of time Strasburg pike to Strasbmurg. The Nimmeteeumth Corps, Brevet Major-Gemmeral Emory comumnandimig, will move at 5 a. ma. to-morrow omin time east side of time Strasbnrb pike to Str~sbnmg. Time amnmunnitiomin A mistake as to Gordon. Refercncc is probably to General A. C. (iodwii~, who was kille Page 111 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 111 trains, anibiilanees, and wagons will be lnove(1 on the Stiasiu~rg pike, those of the Sixth Army Corps being in a(lvalIee. The Army of West Virginia, Brevet Major-General Crook, will be in reserve, and will maidi to Strasburg via the Strasbnrg j)ike. By command of Major-General Sheridan: J. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of ~Staff. SPECIAL OrnEns, IIn~us. I)EPARTMENT OF WAShINGTON, TWENTY-5EC )NI) A i~iv CoRps, No. 234. & pte))lbCF 19, 1861. * * * 1 0. The Seventh Company New JIanll)sllire Heavy Artillery, Capt. A. S. Libby, having reported to these headquarters l)urslLant to or(icrs, will l)e reported without delay to Brigadier-General Jiardin, command- ing division, for duty. By command of Major-General Augur: C. H. RAYMONI), A ssistan t Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, LIDQRS. 1)EPARTMELTT OF WAsHiNGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CoRPs, No. 235. ) mSeptember 19, LSG1. * *- ~- * * 6. The Sixth Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps is hereby relieved from duty in thi5 (lepartinent, and will l)roeeed without (lelay to John- sons JslaIi(l, Sandusky, Ohio, re~)orting on arrival to the comman(ling officer of that post for duty. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * - * * * By command of Major-General Angur: C. Th RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. IlnQns. I)EPARTMENT OF WASHiNGTON, 22D Am~y CORPS, Washington, 1). C., September 19, 1864. Major WAITE, Comdg. Eighth Illinois Cavalry, near Darnestown I know of no infantry near Conrads Ferry. Ascertain, if I)ossLble, the foundation for report of liriug in that direction and its cause. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chic/~ of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. MUDDY BRANCh, September 19, Th61f.ft) p. m. (Received 6 l~ in.) Lieut. Cok J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of AStaf% and Assistant Adjutant- General COLONEL: Party sent up the river last night just returned; could learn nothing; all quiet. River so high officer in charge of scout di Page 112 112 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. not cross. No drums heard this morning. Unless Lazelle can send party from Falls Church, I can send party (lown and cross at Chain Bridge. The former could be done with less delay. Heavy firing heard since early this morning direction General Sheridans army, indicating qnite a battle. Respectfully, JNO. M. WAITE, Major, & C. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE. Near Fort Bnffttlo, Va., September 19, idGi. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant A6~jntant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that nothing has occurred in this vicinity for the past twenty-four hours worthy of mention. Infor- mation considered very reliable has reached here to-day that in the skirmish with the Thirteenth New York Cavalry on the last scout of that regiment Colonel Mosby was seriously wounded, a pistol-bullet striking the handle of the pistol in his belt and glancing off in his groin. He was able, however, to ride off, but soon fainted, and was carried in a wagoii to a place of safety. Heavy artillery firing was heard this morning iii the direction of Ashbys Gap. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. S. GANSEVOORT, Colonel Thirteenth New York Cavalry, Commanding. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, September 19, idGi. Brigadier-General BARNES, Commanding, i~oint Lookout, Md.: Complaint is made that white troops are sent out from your coin- inand under colored iion-commissioned officers. The Secretary of War desires that this be not done, aiid that in all cases white officers and non-commissioned officers be put over white troops. Acknowledge receipt. E. I). TOWNSEND, Assistant A djntant- General. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. 1)ETACHMENT 19TH ARMY ColTs, September 19, 1~Thi. This coinniaiid will niove at 5 a. m. to-morrow on the east side of tim Strasburg pike to Strasbnrg in the same order as this forenoon. By order of Brevet Major-General Emory: I)UNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant A o~jnta.nt- General. IHEADQUARTER 8 Finsi C AVALR v T)mvlsmoN, September 19, 1S$IPJ. General CUSTER, Commanding First Brigade: General Sheridan is now near Winchester, with the army, on the Berryville pike. There is no doubt the enemy will concentrate in hi Page 113 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 113 front. lie is advancing. Averells firing on your rP~ht indicates the enemy moving toward XVinchester. Watch them well, and try them from time to time. I dont think they will try to force us, but they will try to deceive us with reference to the strength they have in our front. Send a mounted party to your right for information. Respectfully, W. MERRITT, Brigadier- General. [Indorsement.] Captain DANA, Assistant Adjutant- General: I think the enemy are leaving my front. They are moving off toward our left. I think Lowell could advance. I am going to try it. G. A. CUSTER, Brigadier- General. LOCKES FORD, September 19, 18619.Jo a. in. Captain DANA, Ass?stant Adjutant- General, First (lax airy J)i?ision: General Custer has crossed with most of his command. They are skmrmmshnig now about half a mile from the ford, where the enemy seems to have rallied. A small force of cavalry has just been reported as tryino to cross on Custers right, but a squadron has beeii sent out to check them. They want more ammunition. J. ROGERS, Captain. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, & C., September 19, 1861. Rrigadier-Gcmiera.l WILSON: Mx~ DEAR WILSON: I wish I could have had you with me to-day, but General Sheridan tells mne your division did magnificently. I hear you have lost heavily. I am, too, sorry about Mcintosh and Chapmami. The First Division captured 761 men and 64 officers, 9 battletlags (in- fantrv) and 1 gnu, 2 caissons. McQnesten was killed. Rodemibough lost an arm. Killed and wounded about 150. Yours, TORIlERT. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIViSION, September 19, 186110 p. in. General WILSON: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you move your division, at S a. mm to-morrow, to a good position between Cedarville amid tile Shemmandoah River, on the Front Royal pike, going via Kerustown amid Stephensburg, and taking the direct road from Stephensburg to Stony Point. Cedarville is three miles south of Stomiy Point, on the Front Royal pike. On arrival at Cedarville communicate toward Middletown 8 R RYOL XLIII~ PT I Page 114 CHAP. LV. 114 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. with the First Division. The First Division will move down the Stras- bnrg pike, and General Averells division on a road to the right of the Strasburg pike. Leave the right of the pike entirely for the First Division. I am, general, very reSl)ectflilly, & c., WM. I{USSELL, JR., Assista at A~jntant- General. ORDERS.1 HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY 1)IV1SION, September 19, 1864. The command will move to-morrow morning at 5 oclock in the direc- tion of Strasbnrg, on the Strasbnrg and Winchester pike, in the follow- ing order: first, Chapmans brigade; second, McIntoshs brigade, with Batteries B and L; third, ammunition and ambulance train. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, September 19, 186112 in. Hon. E. M. STANToN~ Secretary of Wa ~: Sheridan moved on enemy this morning at daylight. Soon after movement heavy and continuous firing for two hours, then ceased, ap~)are1Itly receding; resumed al)out 9 oclock, and has contInued up to this hour (12 in.), apparently in the vicinity of Bunker Hill. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, September 19, 18611.15 p. in. Brigadier-General STEVENSON Spare no pains or effort to obtain the earliest aiid most reliable infor- mnation, and telegraph immediately. Send ont scouts at shott intervals. Mark the hour your telegrams are sent. Leave nothing undone to get accurate information. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMI~NT, Washington City, September 19, 1864. JoHN N\. GARRETT, Esq., Baltimore: Be ready to move troops from Wasluingtomi to harpers Ferry rapidly oii short notice. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary (J wa Page 115 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115 HARPERS FERRY, September 19, 18642.35 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Just received report from signal officer as follows: Continuous firing between Opequon and near Winchester; very heavy since 10 a. in. Think engagement is general. Line about five niiles long. Averell is heavily engaged with enemy near Darkesville. I have sent party of scouts and couriers to the front. Shall report promptly all reliable news. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 19, iL~G11.3O p. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secrete ry of War; Figlitino in the (lirectioll of Winchester much heavier. Our forces near Bunker Hill seem to be driving the enemy rapidly. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. hARPERS FERRY, September 19, f5G15.aU p. m. (Heceived 7.47 p. ut.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Just heard from front. Our cavalry, Averell and Merritt, engaged Breckinridges corps at Darkesville at daylight, and up to 1 oclock had driveu him beyond Stephensons Depot, a distance of seven miles, killing and wounding quite a number, and capturing 20() j)risoners from Gordons division. On center and left the enemy were drivemi about three miles beyond time Opequon into line of earth-works, our infantry attacking them in position. Since then, as the officer left, lie could distinctly hear musketry firing, and continuous and heavy artillery firing as he caine iii. We have heard here heavy artillery, and still continuing to this hour. Every indication is most favorable to us. Respectfully, JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. MIL. DIST. OF HARPERS FERRY, - No. 35. Harpers Ferry, W. 1, September 19, 1864. * * * * * 13. Major Johnston, chief of trains, will have his trains ready to move to the front from Bolivar Heights at 10 p. m. to-night. He will report with his trains to Col. L. D. H. Currie, commanding escort, at that hour. The trains will move in the following order: first, Nineteenth Army Corps train; second, Eighth Army Corps train; third, Sixth Army Corps train; fourth, cavalry trains. The trains will be kept well closed up on the march, and the several quartermasters in charge will remain with their trains until their arrival at the front. The route to the front will be by way of the Smithfield pike. * * * * * -~- Page 116 116 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. 16. Col. ii. B. H. Currie will, with his conimand, excepting the One hundred and seventy-third and One hundred and sixty-fifth Regimeiits New York Volunteer Infantry, and camp and headquarters guards, escort the trains of the army of Major-General Sheridan to Winchester, Va. He will proceed by the Smithfield pike. The trains will move promptly at 10 p. m. to-night. The Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry will report to him to act as flankers to the train. Colonel Currie will be held responsible for the safety of the train. Upon arriving at Win- chester, he will report to the commanding officer at that post for iustrnc- tions, unless Major-General Sheridan shall be there or in vicinity, in which event he will report to him in person. Upon delivering the train, in accordance with the orders of Ma~jor-General Sheridan, he will report back with his command to these headquarters. By order of Brigadier-General Stevenson: S. F. ADAMS, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. hANCOCK, & ?ptember 19, 1861. Major-General KELLEY: Captaiii 1~etrie brings report from Sir Johns Run that a rebel force is moving up northwestern grade toward 1{oiuney. lie gets it second- handed. I give it for what it is worth. F. B. MILLER. SLEEPY CREEK, [~eptentherf 19, 1861. Major-General KELLEY: I have the honor to report that 400 rebel cavalry came clown the Back Creek Valley yesterday and burnt railroad bridge over Back Creek, and returned again by the same route. Please send me one box Enfield cartridges, caliber .58. G. W. MILLER, AS~ergeaut-3fajor, Gorndg. .i)etaehnteut Fifth West Virginia. HEADQUARTERS FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, Relay House, Aid., ASeptember 19, 1861. Lient. Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutatt- General: COLONEL: In compliance with your communication of the 13th instant, Ii have the honor to submi~ the following roster of stations of the dift~rent regiments and detachments of this brigade: Baltimore and Ohio ]IlailroadMonocacy Junction: One hundred and ninety-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. J. W. Fisher; one section Battery H, Third Pennsylvania Artillery, Lient. W. M. iRunkel; Compai~y B, First Delaware Cavalry, Capt. Caleb Church- man. Monrovia: Eleventh Maryland Infantry, Col. William T. Land- street; Coin panics E, F, G, and headquarters First Delaware Cavalry, Licut. Col. N. B. Knight. Mount Airy: Companies A, B, B, and head- quarters Twelfth Maryland Infantry, Lient. Col. J. L. Bishop. Hoods Mills: Companies I) and C, Twelfth Maryland Infantry, Capt. L. M. Haverstick. Elysville: Company G, Ninety-third llegimnent New York State National Guard, Capt. J. 0. Gentleman. Annapolis Junction: Company B, Ninety-third Regiment New York State National Guard Page 117 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION, 117 Capt. H. P. Franklin. Relay House: CQmpanies B, C, D, H,and K, and headquarters Ninety-third New York State Natioiial Guard, Col. W. H. W. Chambers; two sections Battery H, Third Pennsyl- vania Artillery, Capt. W. D. Rank. Fort Dix: Companies C, F, I, K, and headquarters First Eastern Shore 1\laryland Volunteers, Mn~j. John U. Keene; detachment Eighth and Ninth New York Heavy Artil- lery, Lient. W. H. Courtney. Buckeyestown, Md.: Companies E aiid II, First Eastern Shore Mary- land Volunteers, Lient. James R. looper. Urbana, Md. Company C, First i)elaware Cavali.y, lient. XV. J. Reedy. Barnesville, Md.: Company I), First I )elaware Cavalry, Capt. S. Townsend. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant E. B. TYLER, Briy~dier- General, (Jommanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. No. 220. Ghambersburg, Pa., September 19, 1864. * * * * * * 2. Capt. M. Hastings, Keystone Battery, 100-days Pennsylvania Artillery, coinman ding artillery at Chambersburg, Pa., will proceed with his command without delay to the camp of the Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunte~is and report to Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding. * * * * * * * By (% )luuIan d of iXTaj or-Geimeral Couch JNO. S. SCHULTZE, A.ssi~tant Adjutant. General. EXECUTiVE MANSION, Washington, Septem ber 20, 1864. Major-General SHERIDAN, Winchester, ITa.: Have just heard of your great victory. God bless yon all, officers and men. Strongly inclined to come up and see you. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 20, 1861. (Sent S p. in.) Major-General SHERIDAN, In the Field: Please accept for yourself and your gallant army the thanks of the President and this Department for yonr great battle and brilliant vic- tory of yesterday. The President has appointed you a brigadier- general in the Regular Army, and you have been assi~ned to the per- manent command of the Middle Division. One hundred guns were fired here at noon to-day in honor of your victory. EDWiN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 118 CHAP. LV. 118 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CITY POINT, VA., September 20, 18G42 p. m. (Received 5.40 v. in.) Major-General SHERIDAN, Winch ester, ita.: I have just received the news of your great victory, and ordered each of the armies here to tire a salute of 100 guns in hOnor of it at 7 a. in. to-rn orr )W mon un g. if practicable, push y on success a 11(1 iti a~ c all yOU Cdli ot it. V. S. GRANT, CITY POINT, VA., September 20, ISG42 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Let me urge DOW the appointment of General Sheridan as brigadier- general in the Regular Army. i~lease also direct the ~)romrllgatioll of the order appointing him permaiiently to the command of the Middle Division. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- (~encral. CITY POINT, \A., N?ptembe~ 20, ISGI1 I p. m. (Received 12.15 a. in. 21st.) Major-Gencrah TIALLECIC, I 1~asIu inqton: The Richmond Sentinel of to-day has the following: A slight ripple of excitement was 1)rodflced here yesterilay by the report that a Yankee raiding party was advancing on Gordonsville aini were within a few nijies of that place. The result of all our inquiries on this head is that this report origi- nated in the fact that early yesterday a party of Yankee raiders, whose jiumber is not known, visited Rapidan bridge, and after (lestroying it proceeded to Liberty Mills, five or six miles ahove, which they also destroyed. From this latter place they are supposed to have gone back to Culpeper. V. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. STE A 813171W-, Septem her 20, 18G49 p. in. (Received 21st.) Licut. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Ira,.: I have the honor to report my command at Strasbung. My troops were so lunch fatigued by their work yester(lay that 1 was only able to follow the enemy a short distance south of Winchester last night. My infantry marched from Winchester to Strasbung to-day. I could Ilot get ready to attack the enemy before night. Early was badly whipped yesterday. i have not yet receive(l hill reports. Tile enemy left in Winchester over 3,000 wounded. We captured five pieces of artillery, a number of caissous, 4,000 stand of small-arms. My esti- mate of Earlys loss yesterday is over 7,000. He lost the following oeneral ofticers: Rodes and Godwin, killed; Gordon,- wounded inor- tally; Terr.N-, hays, Fitz Lee, and Bradley Johnson, wounded. Gen- eral Rainseur reported by citizens as wounded; this is doubtful. My * Error aa to Gordon being mortally wounded Page 119 Cwu~. LV.] CORIWSPONDENCV, ETCUNION. 119 casualties will be about 4,000; no accurate returns received. (~olonel I )uval, comman(ling (ii vision iii Crooks arniy, was wounded. (l encial Chapman was slightly wonn(Ie(1. He is now on (lilty. P. 11. SHERII)AIN, Major- (iciwral. SmASBUJIG, & jj)tC)U iW) 20, i~4k19.30 p. ~fl. (Received 21st.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: In consequence of a report that I receive(l from Averell that Early had marched two divisions of his colnlnali(l down to ~Martiiishurg, I change(l the programme that 1 spoke about whcmt I saw you at Charles- towim, and moved directly up time Eerryville pike. rFJmt~ information that Early had marched two divisiomis to i\Iartinsburg was incorrect, and 1 found his whole force, exceI)ting Kerslmaws (11 V151O~, which was at Front Royal, in my front. I then attempted, by swinging round my left flank, to cut luimim oft from Winchester. This movement would have been entirely successful if it had not been for time unfortunate giving way of a l)art of Ricketts division, Sixth Corps, and a portion of time Nineteenth Corps, which came back in confusion. This mishap was soon remc(licd by the good conduct of Uptons 1)rigade, of the First i)ivisiomm. Sixth Corps. The enemy then atteml)te(l to turn my right flank, 1)ut General Crook, who was up to that time held mu reserve, went in and turned their left. Our whole line theim advanced beauti- hilly, routimig time enemy at every point. From the best sources of immiormnation that I have Earlys strength is mmmcli greater thami your estimate. The people of Winchester say that Early had yesterday on time field 28,000 in famitry. Ouie of my staff, wlmo was captured yesterday, amid released by Early near this place this morning, and saw all their force, estimates it at least that nunii)er. 11 can scarcely thimuk however that it is as high as these figures. The engagement was a very hand- some one, the lines at different points beiw~ in the open field. P. IH. SIIEIIIDAN, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HD QI?5. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, ~o. 39. September 20, 1864. 1. The muemorandumum order directing l3rig. Gen. T. H. Neill, U. S. Volunteers, to report for duty to the commummanding officer Sixth Corps is revoked. lIe will at once proceed to Martiusburg, Na., alm(l assumime comunmanch of the post there. By command of Major-Genem-al Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., A.sista n t A ~jflt(IHt- General. WASI-uNo-TON, I). C., September 20, 1864. Major-General AUGUR: GENERAL: Major-General Ilalleck (hirects that time veterami regimmment miow umider orders for Imidiammapolis be semit to Jolmnsoims l~lammd San- dusky, without dlelay. Very respectfully, your obe(hiemmt serx-anl. J. C. KELTON, A ~s ista at A djntan t- General. Page 120 120 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. MUDDY 8itAiNcn, MD., September 20, 1864G p. m. Major RAYMOND 4 ~i~t (tilt (Received 7.10 }). in.) Adjutant-(Jcnerai MAJOR: All quiet along the river. Learn nothing new to-day. Shall send small l)arty across to-night in boat to gain information. Have heard no firing to-day ~I1 the Shenandoah; suppose the reason to be that General Sheridan has driven the enemy out of hearing distance. Respectfully, JOHN M. WAiTE, Major, & e. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BulGADI~, Near Port Buffalo, Va., ASeptember 20, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff a~ui A~st. Adjt. (len.: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that S officers and 140 men of the party commanded by Colonel Lazelle returned this evening. Some others, numbers uiot known, have also returned at Annandale. They report tli at yesterday (Moi iday) morning Colonel Eazell e burnt the bridge across the Rapidan, on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, the six-stone mill, said to contain 500 barrels Ilour, and captllre(1 150 mules and horses. After this the coloiiel mnove(l up the railroad to- ward Culpeper Court-house, where a large force of rebel infantry, cay- aliy, and artillery were encountered, estilnate(l variously at train 500 to 1 000 or more muemi and four pieces of artillery. A skirmish ensued while Colonel Lazelles party were moving to the right of Culpeper, which resulted in the confusion and separation of our force, some re- treating by the direct road to Kellys Ford, on time Rappahannock, and others being driven back to the right of the railroad. Colonel Lazelle and several of his officers are among the missing. It is to be hoped that we shall hear from them by to.mnorrow at least. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. S. GANSEVOORT, Colonel Th~rt(?enth ATCU, York Cavalry, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE Mi LITARY DiVISION, September 20, 1864. Brevet Major-General EMORY, Commanding Ninetee~tlt Corps: GENERAL: The major-general comumanding directs that your com~ mand be in readiness to move at 5 oclock to-morrow mormung. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant A(jataut- General. (Same to Major-General Crook.) HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MiLl TAR v DIVISION, September 20, 186110 p. rn. General MERRITT, First Division: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that your comnmnand be in readiness to move to-morrow at 5 a. in. Further instructions will be sent you as soon as received. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant- (leneral Page 121 CHAP. LY.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 124 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY J)IvsIoN, Ccdarrillc Va ~4 ~1~tember 20, 1SGI10.10 a. m. [Brevet Major-General TORBEET:] GENERAL: We have arrived here wit bout seeing any force of the rebels. A small regiment of Wickhams command I)assed through here about two hours ago for Front Royal. I have directed Gliapm~i to send a strong ree~innai sauce iii that (lirection with instructions to go to Front Royal, if pussible, and also to the crossing of the South Fork of Shenandoah, by the Front Royal an(I Stiasburg road. There have been no other troops in this neighborhood, excel)t the regiment first mentioned for several weeks. Cant we go through to Woodstock or New Market with the cavalry~ Send the news. Very respectfully, your obe(hient serva~ it, J. ii. WILSON, Brtqadier- (Thwrai. hEADQUARTERS CAVALRY MIDDLE MILiTARY I)IVISLON, (Jrosiing of Cedar Creel;, & pfember 20, 1R64i p. m. General XX ILSON, Comma)Ul inq Third 1)iri8ion GENERAL: The Sixth Corps are now ero55ino the creek. Merritts division is around Strasbur Averehl is across the creek, to the right, on the Back road. A strong force of the enemy can be seen about Ronnd Top and Fishers Hill. Merritt is in Strasburo holding the hills beyond. The enemy have l)ickets on the road toward Front Royal from Strasburg. General Sheridan will l)itch in here. You will push forward as far as possible up the Front Royal valley, and fiiid out as soon as possible what is up that valley. Kershaws division of inthutry is said to have gone that way. Scout the road from Front Royal to Strasburg, if l)ossible, and communicate that way. Send word often what you meet; it is all-important to General Sheridan. I had to leave your caissons at Winchester, as I could not get any ammuni- tion for you, but sent back to Harpers F~rry at once. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TORBERT, Brevet Major- General aad (ihi~f ~f Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY IMYISION, Ceda reille, Va., AS1ejptember 20, 18G13.20 p. in. Brevet Major-General TORI~ERT, Commanding Cavalry Forces, Muddle Military ])ivision: GENERAL: The reconnaissance toward Front Royal developed about a brigade of cavalry at that I)lace. They had a regiment on the heights beyond Crooked Run, which was driven across the river. Captain Russell, of my staff, was severely wounded in the knee. if you will send a division of cavalry to cross North Fork of Shenandoah at Buck- ton, South Fork at Kendricks Ford, and get in ott the Luray road, I will cross at the brhhe and at Hands and capture the entire force now at Front Royal. This move can be made to night, or by starting at 2 a. in. can be so combined as to come off at daylight. The whole country is in l)laiu sight of my picket-line. The thing can be nla(le a very hand- some success. Please answer. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, i. lL WiLSON, Briq((dier General Page 122 [Onir. LV. 122 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. HEADQITARTERS CAYALT~ Y, MIDDLE MILiTARY i}IvJsIoN, Septembei 20, idG47 p. m. General WILsoN, Commanding Third Jjivision: GENERAL: General Torbert desires me to say that it will be illipoS- sible to carry out your suggestion regarding the captuic of that infantry brigade. Generals Merritt and Averell are a good ways from you on the right, an(l their commands very tire(1. General Torbert desires you to make a strong demonstration iii the muornin~ to ascertain what infantry are in or near Front Royal. If the enemy develop cavalry only he desires you to run them ofL At all events, use every endeavor to cross the creek arid connect with the infantry 1)y the Front Royal and Strasbnrg roa(l. The enemy here are iii stroiig position on Fishers lull, and our forces in their front, but not yet in position. I (10 not think it is yet decided whether an attack will l)e made or not. Very respectfnlly, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assista nti Adjutant- (ijenera!. ORDERS.1 UEADQITARTERS THIRD CAVALRY i)IVISION, AScj)tCl)lbc 20, iS bi). ~ P. in. In order to ascertain the forces at Front Royal, and, if possible, capture, the following dispositions will be made: General Chapman will detach two ~ ;iments of his brigade, under the command of Colonel Wells, with orders to cross the North Fork of the Shenandoah and move across thc country to Kendricks Ford, on the South Fork, crossing that stream and moving rapidly toward Front Royal. This detachment shouhi start so as to reach the rear of the enemys present position just at dawn, and should attack with great vigor. Its first discharge of fii~e-arins will be a signal for the advance of the balance of the division along the route of the Winchester and Front Royal turnpike. In order that this m y be done without delay, the remainder of General Chapmans brigade will be assembled noise- lessly before dawn, on the point between the two rivers, and the First Brigade will be in column on the road, with its advance on the ridge just south of Crooked Creek. The battery will be placed in position at the point occupied to-day. The trains and pack animals will be left on the pike near the creek, guarded by one squadron of the First Brigade. In the preliminary movements no bugle calls will be used, but in the charge all the trumpets will continue to sound the forward. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. The entire command should be ready to move at 3.30 a. in., so that there should be no miscarriage in the attack on account of time. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 123 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 123 HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY I)IVJSION, September 20 1861 Lieutenant-Colonel PURINeTTON, Commanding First Brigade COLONEL: You will post a picket of two commissioned officers and forty men on the road leading from these headquarters to MI(l(lletown, the commissione(l officers to report for further instructions. You will l)lease hurry up this (letail as much as possible. lAy command of lAriga dier- General Wilson: L. SIEJIERT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQITARTER S THIRD CAVALRY l)lvIsloN, Cedarrille, Va., September 20, 1~U;i.1 p. m. Brigadier-General CHAPMAN, Commanding Second Brigade Please direct a small force to move out between the two rivers and watch for movements of the enemys cavalry toward Strasburg. Gem~- eral Sheridan will attack the enemy at Round Top and Fishers 11111. Merritt is at Strasburg watching the enemy; Averell is to the right, and we shall probably attack the cavalry at Front Royal to-night or very early iii the morning. I am very anxions to be apprised of any movement from there. Very respectfully, J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. WAu DEPARTMENT Washington, 1). C., September 20, 18647.25 a. m. General STEVENSON. Harpers Perry: Have you nothing later from the front than 1 oclock yesterday 0? That is the latest reeeive(l here. If you sent out scouts, what has become of them 0? EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARPERS FERRY, September 20, 18647.40 a. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Just heard from front. Sheridan has defeated enemy heavily, kill- ing and wounding 5,000 of enemy, capturing 2,500 l)risoners, 5 pieces of artillery, and 5 battleffags. Rebel Generals Gordon and Rodes killed, York wounded. Our loss about 2,000. General Russell, of the Sixth Corps, killed; General McIntosh lost leg. Enemy escaped up Val- ley under cover of night. Sheridan in Wiuchester. JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Briqadier- Genera Page 124 124 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. YA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. Vt. hARPERS FERRY, NV. \~., September 20, iSGi1i.40 a. m. lion. E. IXI. STANTON, ASecretary Oj War: Just received the foll0wilg official from General Sheridan, dated 1 oclock this morning: GENERAL: We fought Early from daylight until between 0 and 7 p. in. We (irove bun from Opeqllo] Creek through Winchester an(l beyond the town. We captured 2,300 to 3000 1)risoners. 5 pieces artillery, 9 battle-ilags, nil the rebel wouude(l and dea(l. Their wounded in Winchester amount to some 3,000. XVe lost iii killed Gen- eral David Russell, commanding division, Sixth Army Corps; wouude(l, Generals Chapman, McIntosh, and Upton. The rel)els lost in killed the follnwiiig general officers: General Rodes, General Wharton, General Gordon, and General Raniseur. We just sent theni whirling through Winchester, and we are after them to-morrow. This army behaved sPlendidly. I am sending forward all medical supplies, sul)sistence stores, :111(1 all ambulai ices. JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIViSION, lVinehe8ter kSepternber 19 [20], 18G41 a. m. [Brigadier-General STEVENSON :1 GENERAL: We fonoht Early front daylight this morning until between 6 and 7 p. ni. to-night. We (Irove Early from the Opequon Creek through Winchester and beyond the town. We captured between 2,500 anti 3,000 prisoners, 5 pieces of artillery, and 9 battle flags, all the rebel wounded and dead. Their (the rebels) wounded in Winchester amounts to some 3,000. We lost lit killed, General David Russell, commanding division Sixth Army Corps; wounded, Generals Chapman, Mcintosh, and Upton. The rebels lost in killed the following general officers: General Rodes, General Wharton, General Gordon, imd General Ram- senr.* We just sent them a whirling through Winchester, and we are after them to-morrow. The army behaved splendidly. Respectfully, JAS. NV. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. P. S.Please hurry up all the medical supplies. We have about 2,000 wounded, and we should have them here as soon as possible. hARPERS FERRY, VA., September 20, 18645 r. rn. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The body of General Russell has arrived. As soon as embalumed will be forwarded to New York. General Mcintosh, with leg amputated, has just come in; is in good spirits. Several officers front the front report the number of prisoners in excess of 3,000. The number of battle- flags captured was fifteen instead of nine. All concur that it was a complete rout. Our cavalry started in pursuit at daylight this morn- ing. Sheridan when last heard from was at Kernst~wn. I sent for- ward this morning ample medical supplies; full subsistence for entire ~ Error as to Wharton, Gordon, and Ramsenr Page 125 CHAT. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~ITNION. 125 army goes forward. If you do not hear from me often, it will be be- cause of the distance we are from the scene of action, and because I scud you only such information as I esteem reliable. JNO. I). STENTENSON, Briqadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, I1ashinytou, 1). (1., September 20 1864 8 p. m. Brigadier-Getieral STEVENSON, Harpers Perry: Have you anything from the front to-day ~ Your good tidings of yesterday and this morning makes us anxious for more. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WA1~ DEPARTMENT, September 20, 1864. Brig. Gei. JOHN D. STEVENSON: You are assiglle(l, by direction of the President, to the colilmalI(l of the l)istrict of Harpers Ferry, including Martiusburg and the lower Shenandoah Valley, so that all the forces there can operate together. Scud copy of this to General Neill. General Wallace has beeui directed to seiid you another regiment. II. W. IIALLECK, Major- Genra 1 ((nd Chief of Staffs WA 811 1 NG T( ) N, S(ptCJflh(r 20, 1864. Brigad I er-Geiieral STEVENS )N: Stragglers, recruits, ai id couvalesceiits not l)elol I ging to General Sheridans command will be sent to Camp i)ist,ributioii, Alexandria. Those belonging to his command will l)e organized into l)rovisional battalions, and armed for temporary service at harpers Ferry. If you require more officers for this purpose, telegraph to Adjutant-General how many you want. H. W. HALLECK, Ill ajor- General and Chief of Stafl~. hEADQUARTERS MIDDLE ThL1TA1~Y l)JVLSION, Cedar Cree If, Isa., September 20, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: GENERAL: The major-general commanding (lirects that you send, in a(ldition to the eight days rations ordered last night for the troops, 20,000 rations to Winchester for our prisoners and wounded. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. P. S.Troops crossing Cedar Creek; no fighting. The following general officers (rebels) reported killed and woun(le(l: Gordon, Ham- sear, Terry, Godwin, Brad Johnson, and Fitz Lee. FORSYTH Page 126 [CHAP. LV. 126 UPLRATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. iIIADQUAHTERS, Harpers Ferry, September 20, 1864. W. P. SMITH, Baltimore and Ohio Bajiroad: Everything 0. K. General Sheridan wishes all force that can be 1)tlt to work to be l)laced on recoustritetioli of road to Martmsbnrg. Everything perfectly safe. Make arrangements to commence work to- morrow morning, if possible. ~. ~. STENTl~NS0N, Brigadier- General. CAMDEN STATION, September 20, 1 64. Iloit. E. I\I. STANTON: Our agents west rcl)ort that 400 rebels yesterday destroyed the Back (reek bridge, and stated they would move west at oliec, destroy Sleepy Creek bridge and other important structures. 1 have telegraphed Gen- cr81 Kelley, nrghig that all that is practicable should be done to drive back the enemy and preserve the long line of the road, much exposed jiow from (leticiency of troops. If any aid can be furnished him it will be most opportune. We are arranging successtully for rai)id concen- tra ti( )1L of eq nipmcnt for muovemnelit in(licated. Early information re- garding time and number, when determined, will assistus to accomplish the best resnlts. C 1JMIIE REAN I), SeJ)teinb(r 20, i~bi. J. NV. GAiUiETT, Esq., Cam (len Station, Baltimore: Back bridge was fired on Saturday by a rebel force of 400 moliIlte(l iucn, but as the iron-clad cars were in the nciphborhood the enemy hastily retreated, amid oar men extinguishe(l the tire. The bridge very little damaged. Sleepy Creek bridge safe. Rest assnrcd that everything will be (lone to protect the road and the property of the company that can be done with the small force now in umy command. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet ilfajor- General. CUMBERLANi), September 20, 1864. J. B. FORD, Esq., Wheeling: The rebels drove General Avereil out of Martinsburg on Saturday, and sent a detachment of 400 cavalry an(l fired Back Creek bridge, but the fire ~x is extinguished by our men before it had done much damaoe. It is believed that a gemieral engagement took place on Sunday, and that the enemy had been driven back up the Valley. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Miajor- General Page 127 CHAP. LV.] COI11~ESP(XNDENCE, ETC.UNION. 127 CLARKSBU1W, & ptembek ?o, 1dG~. Brevet Major-General KELLEY: The following just received from l3uckhaunon: A scout of seventy men was sent out yesterday, ami from reliable information obtained by Captain Thomson, Eighth Ohio Cavalry, there are about 400 rebeli in camp, twelve miles abovo Centerville and twenty-nine miles from Buekhannon; they are principally dismounted. Their object is to mount their force and make a descent on liuckhannon and Weston. H. II. JIAGANS. A late telegram from Captain Hagans urges me to send re-enforce- ments, an(l to ask the Covernor to call out the militia. He adds there is no (lollbt of the presence of the enemy at the points iudicated. The scout Pierson was killed this morning at Janelew by guerrillas. Can you aid us any, as this force may come here~ N. WILKINSON, Colonel. II EADQL ARTER5 DEPAHTiVWY T OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, (Jhambcrsburg, Septem ber 20. 1861. Capt. CEOnGE BYSTER, I~r() rost-Jfa rslial, & xtecn th (Jon grcs8ionai J)i8trict: CAPTAiN: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your corn- iuunicatioii of the 18th instaiit, statin~r that you were about to coni- uienee (lrattin 0 ]~ your district, an(l that some troops would be required, & c. In rej)ly the counnandiiig general (lirects me to mforni you that two companies of infantry and twenty moiiiiteol men are stationed at Bloody Run, and twenty monitteol ioien at .MeCouiicllsburg, all under the conima1i(l of Brig. Gen. 0. S. Ferry, U. S. Volunteers, at l3edtbrd, Pa., who has becim (lirecte(l to render you all the assistance you or your deputies may rc(lnire in ent~rciiig said (Iraft. 1 ani, cal)tain, very respeettully, your obedient servant JNO. S. SCHULTZE, iI~~ista Ut lldjUta ut- (JCIICr(( 1. SPEC 1AL ORDEilS, WAIl DEPT., AT)JT. GENERAL8 OFFICE, No. 311. Washington, & ptembcr 20, 1864. * * * * * * * 43. Brig. Gei. B. XV. Hiiiks, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty on the general court-martial now in 5e5510u at Carlisle, Pa. At the conclusion of the case, which may now be before the court, he will repair to Harts Island, New York Harbor, and relieve Brig. Gemi. N. J. Jackson, U. S. Volunteers, in command of the depot for volunteers and drafted men. Tile will report, by telegraph, to the Adjutaiit-Gen- eral on assuming command. * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 128 128 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., ANI) PA. [CHAP. LV. CONFIDENTIAL. j WAR I)EPARTMENT, Wa~1~ington, September 20, 18G4. Major-General Dix, New York: The following telegram has just been received in relation to the recent piracy on Lake Erie. You will not probably ileed any trool)s, but will proceed to Buffalo and make an official examination, afl(l report of the flicts to l)e ascertained there and at Detroit, or any other })Oint on the Lake coast. EJ)WJN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. DETROIT, MId., September 20, 18G4. (I{eceived 2 p. ni.) Brig. Gen. J. 13. Fny, Pro ro~t-iJU(rshal- General: The American steamer Philo Parsons, running from this place to Sandusky, was seized yesterday by rebel refugees who embarked at Malden, Canada. They captnred aiid sunk the steamer Island Queen. The steamer Philo Parsons was brought this inoriiing to Sandwich, Canada, where, after plundering and cutting her pipes to scuttle, was abandoned. The seizure of the Philo Parsons, and the capture an(l sinking of Island Queen, occurred in American waters. The I)luiLder- ing and scuttling of Philo Parsons in British waters. Have seeui dis- trict attorney in relation to proper legal ste1)s to take. B. 11. IIILL, Lien tenant- Colonel, U. S. Army. WAn i)EPARTME~T, Washington, A~eptefl1 ber 20, 18611.15 p. m. Major-General l)ix, New York: This l)epartinent has just receive(l intorniation timat rebels front Canada have capture(l two steamers at Bass Island, on Lake Erie. You will proceed immediately to Buffalo and take such measures of defemuse and for the recaptnre of the steamers as you find pro~er and practicable, reporting to this 1)eparhnent. If you nee(l any force, there is a regi- unent at Albany of the Veteran Reserve Corps, which is l)laced under your orders. You will also issue a req nisition upon the Ordnance Departmnent for arms and accouterments that niay be required by the Governor of New York, and that you (lecin miecessary for coast defense. Ackmmowledge this telegram. EI)WlN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. NEw YORK, September 20, 18G4. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Your dispatch in regard to capture of steamers on Lake Erie is received. I shall leave by first express train for BnffhIo. Will you request the Secretary of the Treasury to direct Captain Ottinger, of the revenue service, to finish the new revenue cutter at Buffalo by working on her night and day. I am advised that she can be finished in a few days. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General Page 129 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 129 WAn DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 20, 1864. Col. ANSON STAGER, New York: Please give me all the particulars you have respectiig the steamers captured at Bass Island. When was the provost-marshal of Buffitlos telegram received? Who was it addressed to? Where were the steam- ers captured? how did he get his information? EDWIN M. STANTON, ASecretary oJ War. NEW YORK, September 20, 1861. Iloit. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Colonel Hill, commanding at Johnsons Island, telegraphs the pro- vost-marshal at Buffalo at S a. in. as follows: Rebels from Canada captured the steamers Parsons and Islan(l Queen near the Bass Islands yesterday afternoon, and have gone down or across the lake. Disap- peared from the islands between 10 and 11 oclock last night. 1~rob ably gone for re-enforcements, guns, and ammunition. The capturing party were about thirty, with abundance of revolvers and bowie knives; no other arms noticed. At Middl~e Bass Island captors took wood tuough to last two days. Warn all vessels and steam- ers, and send all important information here. We have one of the principal con- spirators under arrrest. The last telegram from Detroit says rebels returned to Detroit River early this morning. Have been foiled in design, which is supposed to have been the capture of the U. S. steamer Michigan and to release prisoners on Johnsons Island. Crew of steamer Parsons were put ashore on Fighting Island this morning after being robbed of everything valuable. Furniture of boat destroyed an(l feed-pipe cut, leaving her in a sinking condition. Vessel seized by Canadian authorities. Two of rebel crew arreste(l and now in jail at Sandwich. The following telegram received here this p. in.: I IEAI)QUARTEII5, Buffalo, [Seplember] 20. General J. A. Dix: The rebels are capturing our steamers on the lakes and burning them, to destroy our commerce. Captain Ottinger, revenue-cutter service, is l)uilding here a steam revenne cutter, nearly finished. By an additional expense and working night an(l day, she can be ready for service ja a few dayssay ten days. The Treasury Depart- ment would so order at your request. I could arm two or three strong propellers for temporary service as gun-boats, if you see proper to so order. E. C. WILSON, Assistant Quarteratoster. I have asked for further information from Detroit, SandLlsky, and BuIThlo. When received will forward to you. ANSON STAGER. [SEPTEMBER 20, 1864.For correspondence between Secretary Stanton, General Heintzehnan, Governor Brough, and others, relative to seizure of steamers Island Queen and Philo Parsons, on Lake Erie, see Vol. XXXIX, Part II, PP. 426428.] WAR I)EPARTMENT, A~C1)tefltbeF 21 i(Sbi 1 p. m. Lieutenant-t+eimeral GRANT: There are several thousand men here not Ileede(I tor Washington, chieffy new troops. I requested General Halleck to ask you whether 9 R RYOL XLIII, PT I Page 130 130 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., ANi) PA. rCHAP LV. they ought not to be thrown forward to Sheridan. I have had trans- I)ortatioll ready for that purpose. I see by General Hallecks telegram that he gives an opinion about the quality of the troops without asking the question I directed. If you think they will be ot service to Sheridan, please say so, and they can be torwar(le(l speedily. EDWIN M. STANTON, ASccretary of War. CITY POINT, N A., ${ptember 21, i~G11O.8O p. m. Hon. EDWIN i\J. STANTON, Secretary of liar: I informed General Sheridan that I would direct the new reoiments coming into the field to be stopped at Washington, so as he could order them as he desired. The Department of Washington being within his command, I think it would hardly be advisable to send troops down the Baltimore road, unless he should order it. Now that Sheridan is at Strasburg he may waiit troops sent east of the Blue Ridge, if he wants them at all. Before sending aiiy new regiments here it will probably be well to hear from Sheridan. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CITY POINT, NA., September 21, 1SGJ4 p. m. (Received 7 ~. ~n.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington It was not in contemplation to send any troops from Washington to join Sheridan in the pursuit of Early. I thought it possible, though not probable, that Early might turn north or send his cavalry north when Sheridan conimence(I his movement, and in that case wanted troops in Washington, so that a force might be thrown suddenly into Hagerstown to head them off. 1 think it will be safe now to send all new organizations here. They will become fitted for service here sooner thau elsewhere, an(1 will have less chance of deserting. I hope Sheri- dan will wipe out the stain the Valley of the Shenandoah has been to us heretofore before lie gets through. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. STnAsnrn~, NA., Scptember 21, 18G1S.ft) p. m. (Received 22d.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point, Pa. I have the honor to report thit Gtnu ~il Wilsons cavalry division charged the enemy at Front Royal tlii~ Inolning, and drove them front Front Royal up the Euray Valley for a distance of six miles. [directed two brigades of the First Cavalry Dix ision with General Wilsons division, to follow the enemy up that vinihey and to push them vigor- onsly. The enemys inflintry OCCUI)\ a ~ ( i y strongly tortiUle(l position in my front, across the Strasbnrg vall( ~ ili ivy lighting occurred durino the (lay between the Sixth Corps und tin ( nenmy, aiid late in the even- ing a sharp fight took place between i bnoAQ of! the Second Division Page 131 CHAT. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 131 Sixth Corps, and t.wc~ or three regiments of Third 1)ivision, Sixth Corps~ ~and the enemy,] ill which the enemy was driven from a strong crest~ and the crest held. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 259. Washington, September /21, 1864. Maj. Gen. P. II. Sheridan is assigned by the President permanently to the command of the Middle Military I)ivision, consisting of the Middle Department, the Departments of Washington, of the Susque- haniia, and of West Virginia, to which he was temporarily assigned by General Orders, No. 240. By order of the Secretary of War: E. 1). TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. STRASBURG, VA., KS(ptember 21, 18649.30 p. In. Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR, Washington, 1). C. 1 wish you to send to Winchester all the available troops possible, to the number of between 4,000 and 5,000, with out (lelay, to relieve the troops left there to guard my communications. If necessity shonld require, they can be retnrned at short notice. Mosby is nndoubtedly wounded. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, I). C., September 21, Th6. Maj. J. M. WAITE, Corn in an ding Eighth Illinois C(( vairy, near ])arnesto wn Send at once all detachments belonging to the First and Third Division, Cavalry Corps, including Reserve Brigade, to rejoin their regiments via Harpers Ferry. If necessary, the command will delay until it receives the quartermasters stores drawn this day for issue to it. Report departure and strength. Licnteimaimt Carr is in the Old Capitol prison. Respectfnlly, ~. IL TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General. MUDDY BRANCH, September 21, 18643 p. in. (IReceived 4p.m.) Lieutenant-Colonel TAYLOR, Cit iet~ of SU(Lf and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: Fords above Monocacy are not now picketed. Of course, von are aware my companies, Eighth Illiiiois, are much reduced; pre- siime I am not expected to 1)ichiet the line twenty-five miles, guard telegraph station, & c., with eight small companies. Hope you will send me my other battalion. Respectfully, JNO. Al. WAiTE, Major, (owm anding Page 132 132 OPERATIONS IN N, VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. MUDDY BRANCH, September 21, 1864. Lient. Col. ~. H. TAYLOR (Received Washington 4 p. in.) Chief of Staff: COLONEL: Had ordered detachment Twenty-second New York to join regiment to-morrow via Harpers Ferry; will miow hold them and send the whole command of Major Brown, over 300 men, soon as clothing arrives, which is ordered and much needed by the men. Respectfully, JNO. M. WAITE, Major, (Jommanding. MUDDY BRANCH, September 21, 1864. Maj. C. H. RAYMOND, (Received 7.30 i~. in.) Assistant Adjutant General: MAJOR: Squad sent over river last night returned after gaining all the information I expected. Am satisfied there is not, minor has not been, inthmmtry about Leesburg recently. Some of Mosbys men have been about Dranesville and vicinity, as I reported. One Lowe, formerly a rebel lieutenant, living two or three miles from river, opposite Seneca Falls, I was informed, had two portable distilleries, and distils for Mosbys and Whites men. This sqna(l found one secreted in the woods iii a ravine, and demolished it. Are yonr headquarters informed of a rebel militia organization at Dranesville ~ Respectfully, JNO. M. WAITE, Major, Commanding. HDQRS. I)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 21, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER 211TH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS: COLONEL: The qnartermasters department reports that transporta. tion for your regiment to proceed to City Point will be ready at Sixth- street Wharf at 12 in. to-day. The major-general commanding directs that you embark yonr commamid as soon as possible and proceed to the Army of the Potomac, reporting on arrival to its commanding offi. cer for orders. I am, colonel, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, C. H. RAYMONI), Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, September 21, 1864. (Received 7.55 p. in.) Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adju ant- General There is nothing new from the picket-line, except a contmimiiation of the severe wonnding of Mosby. All quiet. Respectfully, H. H. WELLS, Lieut. Col. and Pro. liar. Gem, Defenses South of the Potomac Page 133 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Aear Fort Buffalo, Va., September 21 1864 Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief oJ AStaff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that you will suspen& action on the report sent you last evening by Colonel Gansevoort, as the infor- mation was not entirely correct. I arrived at Annandale this morning with 130 men. This will make our total loss about 30 inca. I will send a full report soon. Very respectfully, your obedient servant H. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Corn dg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Falls Church, Va., September 21, 1864. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff, Twenty-second Army Corps, Dept. of Washington: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I returned from a scout to the Rapidan Station this morning. The strength of party taken out was 325 men, all but fifty from the Sixteenth New York Cavalry, fifty from the Thirteenth New York Cavalry. Going by way of Kellys Ford, Raccoon Ford I arrived at the soath side of the Rapidan opposite the station before the dawn of the third days march. At daylight crossed and captured 200 horses and mules, together with 20 men and 2 officers, a portion of a company of seventy men engaged iii guarding Confeder- ate stock sent there to recruit by grazing. We (lestroyed, by fire and cutting away the supports the railroad bridge over the Itapidan, a strncture 200 feet long and 40 feet high on trestle-work burned the railroad station house, telegraph office, three cars, and a very large flour mill, running six sets of stones. In the building were 300 barrels of flour and a large quantity of corn and wheat. We pulled down the telegraph and destroyed a part of the railroad track. As I wished to destroy the train of cars, which was above inc toxvard Culpeper, I then moved up the railroad, burning the station house at Mitchells Station. Though we had light skirmishing with f lie enemy from the commence- inent of our work, all the information received led inc to l)elieve that there was no considerable force to be encountered. On arriving opl)o- site the junction of the Culp eper and Stevensburg roads, however, I found them commanded by hills, on which was a simple line of intrench- mnents with rifle-pits in front. These contained about 200 iiien and four pieces of artillery. On their left and obstructing the Stevensbnrg road were about 100 cavalry, and 300 infantry, having in their rear forest cover. I immnediatelynmoved to the base of a long, high hill on the oppo- site side, with forest above it, intending to avoid the artillery and infan- try, at the same time throwing out a line of skirmishers. This movement was followed by the enemy and the firing 80011 be- caine general. It was ordered to move by a flank, and iii the attempt mnammy of the men rushed from their places in advance of their officers, and instead of remaining with their coml)anies, fled past the column in great disorder and joined the extreme advance. The officer ail(l officers in charge of the advance-guard, consisting of 50 macn, thus joined by more than 100 flying fugitives of both officers and men, instead of halt Page 134 134 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA, rCHAP. LV. ing, rallying them and returning to the main body, went directly on at a rapid pace to Stevensburg, thence by way of Kellys Ford to this cami), arriving here at about 5 p. in. of the following day, a distance of sixty-six miles traveled in twenty-seven hours. They waited and halted nowhere more than could be avoided. l)uring the confusion of this flight an attempt was made at a rally and a charge upon the enemy, who were now advancing. This was done by portions of companies consisting of about sixty men, but, though it checked the rapid advance of tIme enemy, the nature of the ground and the few numbers rendered it ineffective. By much exertion order was partially restored ,and the men now left were gotten into line, and by taking advantage of the timber the pursuit was checked by all but small parties of the enemys cavalry. My contemplated trip to Culpeper Court-House was aban- doned, and I made my way to Kellys Ford at a walk, skirmishing all the way. We bivouacked three miles from the ford. The day follow- ing the colunmn was harassed l)y about forty cavalry until arriving at Bristersburg, sixteen miles from Kellys Ford. The animals captured were abandoned and all but eight of the prisoners escaped; these were brought in. Our total loss in killed and uiissimig is 1 officer (Lient. George French, Sixteeiith New York Volunteer Cavalry) and 27 men. Eleven men wounded were brought in. I am informed that two of all the officers with that portion of the force which retreated so rapidly to Kellys Ford advised Major Bos- worth, the officer in command, to halt at that l)lace nutil I should come up, or at least for a reasonable time. Captain Brown, Thirteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry; Captains Mickles and Leahy, Sixteenth New York Cavalry; Lieutenants French and Doherty, Sixteenth New York Cavalry, behaved most fearlessly iii their efforts to retrieve what was lost. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. M. LAZELLE, Colonel Sixteenth I ~oln n leer Caralry, Corn 4g. Cara iry Brigade. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIEAIQITARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPs, No. 208. September 21, 1864. 1. Brig. Gen. Frank Wheaton, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby assigned to the command of the First l)ivision of this corl)s, and will assume eonunan(l lbrthwith. * * * * * * C. A. WhITTiER, Acting A s~sistaut Adjutant- General. HEADQITARTERS FIRST i)iv SlON, SIXTH CORPS, & pteml)er 21 1(S64 In obedience to the above order, the uimdersigued hereby assumes command of the First Division, Si xtli Corps. FRANK WHEATON, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers Page 135 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONI)ENCE, ETCUNION. 135 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvIsIoN, Sirasburq, A%eptember 21, 18618.30 p. in. Brevet Major-General EIoRY, (iontmanding Nineteen [it Arnry (iorp8 GENERAL: The major-general commauding directs that you move your corps, at the break of day to-morrow morning, to the right and trout of your present position, cotering the ground and occupying the position occupied by Major-General Wriohts command this evening. General Wrights corps moved from its position farther to the right this evening, and you must extend your corps so as to connect with him. Your skirmish line, extending around to the left, with its reserves along the railroad, will not be changed, and the regiment on the extreme left, which was ordered on a reconnaissance today, \vill also remain and not be changed. The proupt execution of this order is especially necessary. I am, general. very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. W. FOHSYTII, L tenten ant- Co lo it ci ((it 4 Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT N1NETm~ENTil ARMY Cours, Near Strasbury, La., September 21, 1864. Capt. E. I). TAFT, Aetuty Cit iej of Artillery, Detachment Nineteenth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: The Nineteenth Corps is ordered to move at daybreak to-morrow, to occupy the position occupied by General Wrighifs corps this evening. General Grover has been ordered to withdraw the two regiments supporting the battery on the hill on our left before daylight. You will withdra.w the battery before daylight. The general command- ing directs, also, that you post a battery in the same position as that occupied by the battery of General Wright that opene(l fire this even- Jfl O I an i, very respectfully, your obedient servant. I)UNCAN S. WALKER, I 5SiSt(Ot t A (lj ttl(titt- (icit ertt 1. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTh ARMY C )nPS~ ,~1 Near Strasbury, September , 1864. Bri gadier-General l)wIGHT: The major-general connnanding directs that you move your division, at the break of day to-morrow morning, to the right and front of your l)resent position, covering the ground aud occupying the position occu- pied by Major-General XYii ghts front line this even ii ig. General Wrights corps moved from its position farther to the might this even- iitg, and yOu must extend your division to meet with himn, throwing ommt a line of skirmishers to l)rotect your new front amid connect with his. Your skirmish line extendiiig around to the left, with its reserves along the railroad, will not be changed. General Grover is ordered to sup- port you. Prompt execution of this order is especially necessary. I am. very respectfully, your obedient servamit, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjatanl-Gcterai Page 136 136 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS I)ETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Stra8burg, ~ September 21, 1864. Brigadier-General GROVER, Cowman (hug ASeCon (1 J) i rision, Nineteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: By direction of the brevet major-general commanding I have the honor to in close a copy of instructions sent to General Dwight.* The general commanding directs that you move your division, at the break of day to-morrow, to the Support of General Dwights (livision, forming line within 200 yards in rear of his line. Your skirmish line extendiug around to the left, with the reserves along the railroad, will not be changed. The regimeut on the extreme left, which was ordered ou a reconnaissance to-day, will also remain and not be changed. The two regiments of infantry and the battery of artillery on the lull on the left will be withdrawn before daylight. Prompt execution of this order is especially necessary. I am, general, very respectfrilly, your obedient servant, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 21, 18645 a. m. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you withdraw your division at once and move back to the tor(1 on Cedar Creek where the pike crosses. Move out to your rear and out of sight of the enemy. There is a road on the right of the pike coming to the rear which Geiu- eral Torbert thinks you had better take. As soon as your command arrives at the creek he wishes you to report at army headquarters, 011 the pike, a short (listance from the creek to the front. Very resl)ectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., A ssistant Adjutant- General. IIEADQITAR TERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Geiieral MERRITT, September 21, 18618.-il a. m, First Div ision GENERAL: The chief of cavalry desires YOU to have one brie-ade encalap on the north side of Cedar Creek near the pike, the command- ing officer to report to Major-General Sheridan. I am, general, very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. hEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY l)IvISloN eptember 21, 1SJ)45.20 a. in. General AVERELL: The chief of cavalry desires inc to iiiform you that General Merritts division will be withdrawiu at once, and placed on the left of the army. You will operate on the rh~ht of the army, with which you will keep in See next, ante Page 137 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 137 connection, if possible. Move out as far on the Back and Middle roads as von can and until stopped by a sui)erior force. It is nnportant to know as soon as l)ossible whether the left of the enemys infantry can be foiced. Communicate frequently with headquarters of the army, which is on the pike near Ce(Iar Creek. TOIU3ERT, General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Strasburg, September 21, 1864. Brevet Major-General AVERELL, Commanding Car airy Division GENERAL: Your dispatch* of 9 p. m. received. The major-general commanding directs that you pnsh down on the enemys pickets at day- light in the morning and remain there. Brevet Major-General Crooks command will go in on the right in the morning. ~ ery respectfully, & c., JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Front Royal, Va., September 21, 18647.30 a. m. Col. J. W. FORSYTH, Chief qf Staff: I have driven the enemys cavalry out of this place. ~ brigade retreating up the valley. I learn from reliable sources that Andersons (livision of iutbntry crossed at Buckton and went on up the valley, crossing the South Fork at McCoys Ford, eight miles from here. I believe this perfectly reliable, and shall push on to see. The force which crossed were said to be crossing all day. I will send more definite information as soon as it can be got. J. II. WILSON, Br~qadier- General. hEADQUARTERS CAVALRY MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 21, 18649 p. m. General WILSON, Third Division: GENERAL: I am instructed by the chief of cavalry to say that Gen- eral Custer, with his brigade, will cross at the ford near this l)lace Fiont Royalso as to be able to cross the river amin at McCoys Ford at (layliglit. He desires you to keel) a sharp eai~ for his guns nid dso C, wishes you to attack by (laylight. 1 am, general, very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 21, 18648 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Reliable news from front. Our army was crossing Cedar Creek yes- terday at 3 p. m. No fighting. The following list of rebel generals killed and wounded is correct: Generals Rodes, i{ainseur, Gordon, Not found Page 138 138 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. Terry, Godwin, Brad Johnson, and Fitz Lee. From all I can learn, the prisoners will approximate 5~OO0. The indications are that the rebels will not make a stand short of Staunton. They are evidently too much demoralized to make another fight. Respectfully, JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. (Copy to General Grant.) HAnPnns Fniwnv, VA., 8{ptember 21, 1S641.1() p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Just heard from the front, courier leaving at 1 a. m. Army in position one mile in front of Strasburg. Reconnaissance being made to ascertain if the enemy are in force at Fishers Hill. The running of wagons and artillery during the night indicated that the enemy were moving, but no developments sufficient to determine whether they would attempt to hold Fishers Hill at the time the courier left. The following is a correct list of rebel loss of general officers: Generals Rodes, Gordon, aiid Godwin, killed ;* Terry, Haines [Hays], York, Brad- ley Johnson, Fitz Lee, and Ilamseur, wounded. Our supply trains were met by a courier beyoiid Smithfield all right. Have sent forward surgeons and medical stores. Have exhausted all transportation at this post in forwarding supplies. Shall improvise other transportation to-morrow to get forward additional hospital stores, including tents, cots, & c. JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, September 21 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Accept my thanks for your promptness in giving information and your energy in sending forward supplies. I am sure you will leave nothing in that particular undone, but press everything rapidly forward. There is one matter I do not understand: Have we taken any l)ris- oners but the wounded left in Winchester; and how many, and where are they ~ You reported 2,500. Were they the wounded prisoliers of Winchester, or prisoners token ii the field ~ Please explain. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary ~/ War. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 21, 1~645.20 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary c?J War: Heavy firing heard in direction of Strasburg for the last two honrs. In reply to your telegram, the prisoners taken are exclusive of tlme wounded; they are still held at Winchester. Respectfully, JINO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. * Error as to Gordon Page 139 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 139 hEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF hARPERS FERRY, Hcupcrs Ferry, IV. 1i., AScjptcrnbe 21, 1864. Ma. Geit. P. H. SHERIDAN: GENERAL: The supply trains and all army trains leit here last night at 10 oclock. I heard from them beyond Smithfield all right. They should be at Winchester l)y 5 oclock this evening. I send Thrward this evening the horse battery, Sixth Independent New York; also Captain Livingstons train of artillery ammuiiition , 20,000 rations for Winches- ter, thirty-five wagons of medical stores received from Washington. I shall send forward to-morrow all cattle required for front, and a(idi- tional umedical snp~)lies for wonnded. I am now without troops for escorts of any kind, having sent forward everything. Shall send to-morrows trains with remounted cavalry from Itemount Camp. Allow inc to congratulate you upon yonr brilliant victory, and wish more success and additional honors. The country can but be most grateful to you and your noble army. Respectfully, JOHN I). STE VENSO~, llriqadier- General. HEADQUARTER S MIDDLE MlL1 TARY DIVISION, Strdsbary, AS~eptember 21, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Corn mending Military District of Harpers Perry: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that as soon as the railroad is completed throngh to Martinsburg you order the two regiments of Brevet Major-General Crooks command, left, when we moved on Winchester, at Charlestown, to Martinsburg, to rel)ort for duty to Brigadier-General Neill, who has been assigned to that com- mand. You will send with the above-named two regmnments one battery of light artillery from the garrison at Harpers Ferry, to rCl)Ort at the same time and place to General Neill for (hilty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief 0/ tatj CUMBERLAND, ANeptember 21, 1864. Capt. P. G. BIER, Assistant A jutant- General: Colonel Wilkinson reports a rebel force of 400 near Centerville, south of Bnckhannon, and asks for re-enforcements. I have noiie to send him. Have asked the Governor to tall out militia of 1-larrison, Bar- bour, Upshur, Taylor, and Lewis Counties. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Myor- General. (iLAR Ii SIIUR C~ ~~eptemher 21, 1864. Brevet Major-General IKELLEY: Rumors still agree with yester(hiy5 reports to us. Rebels imear Cen- terville. N. WILKINSON, Colonel Page 140 140 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAI~. LV. Colonel WILKINSON (~TTMREI~LANI, ASeptcm her 21, 1(564. (Jlark8barg: I have no troops to send you. have asked the Goveriior to call ont the militia of harrison, Harbour, Taylor, 19 l)shur, and Lewis Counties. Please keel) me advised. 13. F. KELLEY, Breret Major- General. WILLIAM IL. i~ORTER, (9ITMBERLAND, 8ej)ternber 21, 1864. Gr(ftofl: Come on with all the force you can raise and go to work at once. 13. F. KELLEY. Breret Major- General. Governor BOREMAN, CITMBERLAND, September 21, 1(564. lVheeling: Captain Hagans, at Buckhannon, reports a force of rebels near Cen- terville 400 strong and asks for re-enforcements. I have no troops to send him, and must ask that you call out a portion of the militia of Harrison, Lewis, Barbour, Upshur, and Taylor Counties. I hope Gen- eral Crook will soon send me some troops, as the rebels are now being driven out of the Valley. 13. F. KELLEY, Breret Major- General. WHEELING, September 21, 1864. Brevet ~fajor-General KELLEY: f have ordered out the militia of harrison County, and requested Colonel Wilkinson to call out the militia of Upshur an(1 a(ljacelit coun- ties if necessary. The Governor is absent. F. P. 1~EJHPOINT, Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. I)EPT. OF TIlE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 222. 5 Chambersburg, Pa., September 21, 1864. * * * * * * 2. Capt. J. K. Weaver, commanding Company F, First Battalion, 100- (lays Pennsylvania Volunteers, will send without delay twenty men, under command of a good officer, to London Gap amid relieve Coni- pany H, First Battalion, 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, coin- mnauded by Capt. J. I). Sutliff, Oh (luty there. 3. Capt. John D. Sutlilf conmn sylvania Volunteers, , anding Company H, 100-days P~mn- upon being relieved at Lon2on Gap by the (letachment of Capt. J. K. Weavers com~)8uy, will l)rOcee(l without delay to the camp of the Two hundred and first regiment Peinisylvaimia \ )lunteers, near Back Creek, and report to Col. F. Asbury Awl, com- manding, for orders Page 141 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 141 4. Capt. M. Hastings, Keystone Battery, 100-days Pennsylvania Artillery, commanding artillery near Chambersburg, Pa will cause a national salute to be tired at 12 in. this day in honor of the brilliant victory of Major General Sheridans troops over the combined rebel forces of Early and Breckinridge in the Shenandoah Valley on the 19th instant. * * * * * * * 7. (ol. Charles Albright, commanding Two hundred and second Regi- inent Pen n syl vail a Volunteers, will proceed without delay to Column- bia County, Pa., via Mauch Chunk, and carry ont instructions to be furnished by Brig. Gen. 0. 5. Ferry, U. S. Volunteers, at Harrisburg, Pa., after which he will return. * - * * * * * 11. Capt. William MeCarrol, commanding Company B, Two hun- (Ired and first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed with- out delay with his company and relieve Capt. Thomas S. McGowan, In dependent Company (Patapsco Guards) Maryland Volunteers, as post commander and his company as provost guard. 12. Capt. Thomas S.. McGowan, Independent Company (Patapsco Guards) Maryland Volunteers, upon being relieved by Capt. William McCarrol, Company B, Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed with his coui~)any to the camp of the Two han- (lied and first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and report to Col. F. Asbury Awl, commanding, for orders. 1:3. Company A, First Battalion, 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty in the South Mountain, and will march to the camp of the Two hundred and first Reghuent Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, and report to Col. F. Asbury Awl, comumandimig, for orders. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant Adjutant- 4~eneral. WAR DEPARTMENT, September 22, 186-13 p. nt. Lieutenant-General GRANT: You will see by Sheridans dispatch- to General Augur that lie wants some trool)s. About 3,000 will go forward to him this evening. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary OJ War. CITY POINT, VA., September 22, 186-19.30 p. m. (Received 10.40 a. in. 23d.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff. Will it not be practicable to open in a short time the railroad from Washington to Strasburg~? If this can be done, it seems to me advis- able that the latter place should be held. Before giving any directions ou the subject I will await your views. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- (Jener (ti. See Slieri(laJi tO Auur 2J~st 9 ,~() p. m. ~. 1~1 ~, , , . Page 142 142 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Ml)., ANI) PA. [CHAP. LV. IIEADQUAIITERS MIDDLE MILITARY I )IvIsloN, Six miles front Woodstoek, Seplember 22, 1SGiii.3O p. in. (Received 28d.) Lient. Gen. 17. S. GRANT, (lommancling Armies of the United States, City Point, Va.: I have the honor to report that Ii achieved a most signal victory over the army of General Early at Fishers Hill to-day. I found the rebel army posted with its right resting on the North Fork of the Shenandoah, and extendino across the Strasburg valley westward to North Moun- pying position appeared impregnable. After tam, occu a which almost a great deal of maneuvering (luring the day, General Crooks command was transferred to the extreme right of the line on North Mountain, and he furiously attacke(l the left of the enemys line, carrying every- thing before him. While Crook was driving the enemy in the greatest confnsion and swee~)ing down l)ehind their breast-works, the Sixth and Nineteenth Army Corps attacked the rebel works in front, and the whole rebel army appeared to be broken lip. They fle(1 in the utmost confusion. Sixteen pieces of artillery were captured; also a great maiiy caissons, artillery horses, & c. I am to-night pushing On down the Valley. I cannot say how many prisoners I have cal)tured, nor do I know either my own or the enemys casualties; only darkness has saved the whole of Earlys army from total destruction. My attack could not be made until 4 oclock in the evening, which left but little daylight to operate in. The First and Third Cavalry l)ivisions went dowir Luray Valley to-day, an(l if they push on vigoronsly to the main valley, the result of this days engagement will be still more signal. The victory was very complete. A more detailed report will be made as soon as I can obtain the necessary data. P. II. SHERIDAN, lie jor- (len ereti, Commanding. HEADQI7ARTER5 Al{MIES ol TILE UNITEID STATES, Field ( lit the , 1ity Point, Ya., September 22, 186410 p. nt. (Received 10.40 a. m. 23d.) Maj or-General SnEul DAN, ~trash erg, Va.: I congratulate you an(l the army serving under you for the great victory just achieved. It has been most opportune in l)oint of time and effect. It will open again to the Government and the public the very important line of road from Baltimore to the Ohio, and also the Chesa- peake Canal. Better still, it wipes oat much (a the stain upon our arms by previous disasters in that locality. May your goO(l work con tinue is itow the prayer of all loyal men. U. S. GRANT, Lientenctnt- General. HDQRS. DEPARm ENT OF WASHiNGTON, 22D ARMY CoRPs, II ashington, S(ptember 22, i5hi9.I. p. m. i\lajor-General ShERIDAN, COitm an(ling ]Jliidd Ic I)i riswn, beyond Strasburg, Ia. Four thousand nine hundred and twenty-tour men will leave licic to Winchester to-morrow mornimi~. I have also or(lere(l all your cavalry on the Potomac amid at Camp Stoneniati to be hastened forward to joii yom God speed you. C. C. AUGUR. iiJl(t)O)- (leiteral, U. S. A rmy Page 143 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 143 SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHiNGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 237. September 22, 1864. * * * * * * * 2. The Eighth Company New Hampshire Heavy Artillery, having reported at these headquarters, in obedience to orders, will l)e reporte(1 without delay to l3rigadier-General Hardiii, comm anding division, for duty. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Augur: C. H. ItAYMONI), ~bsistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 22, 1864. Brig. Gen. \L D. HARDIN, (Jo ni man ding Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that the following- named regiments be placed en route to Winchester, Va., via Harpers Ferry, by rail, with as little delay as practicable, viz: Forty-first New York Volunteers, Sixth New York Heavy Artillery, Ninth New York Heavy Artillery, and Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers. The chief quartermaster of your division should report to the chief quay- termnaster of the department at once for instructions in the preparation of tiansportation. The troops should carry three days rations and 100 rounds of ammunition per man. Very respectfully, genera!, your most obe(lient servant, J. 11. TAYLOR; oh ief of Staff aa(i Assista at A ~jutant- General. lII)QRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON p21) ARMY CORPS, September 2~ 1864 Brig. Gen. M. D. HARDIN, Comm a nding Division GENERAL: The major-general commnan(hflg (lirects me to inform you that it will be necessary for your regiments, now under orders for Win- chester, to move from the depot by (laylight September 23. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of & a ft a ad Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF VVASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CoRPS, September 22, 1864. Briodier-General DR HuSsy Conuaaadiag Dmvmstou (JENER AL: In accordance with instit iction s haiti headquarters Mid- dIe Military Division, [the general coinnianding] directs that the follow- ing-named regiments move with as little delay as practicabh, via harpers Ferry, by rail, to Winchester, Va., to report to the command Page 144 144 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. ing officer at that place (the troops will be provided with three days cooked rations aini 100 rounds of ammunition pec man), viz: One huii- dred and eighty-fourth New York Volunteers, One huiidred and third New York Volunteers, One hundred and fourth Pennsylvania Volun- teers, Tenth New York Heavy Artillery. The chief qi~artermaster of your division will report at once to the chief quartermaster Depart- ment of Washington for instructions and preparation of transportation. Very respectfully, general, your most obedient servant, J. 11. TAYLOh% Chief of Staff and As8istant A~jutant- & ~eneral. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 22, 1864. Brigadier-General DE iRiisSv, Commanding Diri8ion GENERAL: The major- general commanding directs that the Seventy- fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers be added to the detail aheady made from your division this day for Winchester. It is neces- sary that these troops move as rapidly as possible. Transportation is now ready. Yery respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and A~si8tant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 22, 1864. Col. F. A. CONKLING Corn dy. lEigh ty-frnrth Regiment Ken IorI~ State Militia: COLONEL: The major-general conimandiig directs that on the arrival of four companies Forty-second Massachusetts Militia at your 1)resent camp, you imiove with your entire megimnent to the i3altimnore and Wash- mngtou depot in this city, at which you will take cars for Winchester Va., via Harpers Ferry. On your arrival at Winchester you will report for duty to the commanding officer at that place. The men should carry three days cooked rations and 100 rounds of ammunition per man. Your regimental quarterumaster should at once report to the chief quartermaster of this department for preparation of transl)orta- tion. Very respectfully. colonel, your most obedient servamit, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and As~i~tant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WA5HINGTON~ 221) ARMY CORPS, September ~ 15(4. 131-ig. Gen. JOHN P. SLOUGH, Mdita rq Gorernoi- of Alera ,tdr,a: The in ajor- general conmm anclin g directs that lour colLmJ)anies Forty- secon(l Massachusetts State Militia be i)hICCd en monte without delay to relieve the Eighty-fourth New York State Militia at Great Falls, o Page 145 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 145 the Potomac, above this city. The battalion should be commanded by a field officer, carry three days rations and forty rounds of ammunition, and march at once. Respectfully, J. II. TAYLOR. Chief of Staff and Assbda ut Adjutant-General. I ~DQn5. 1)EPARTIXTENT 01? WASHINGTON. 221) ARM ~ CORPS. Wash ington, I). (A, September 22, 1861. Col. It. lxi. LAZELLE, Commanding (Juair~~ Brigade: COLONEL: The major-general commaudini~ dmects me to acknowle(lge the receipt of your communication of the 21st instant reporting the result of your scout to Rapidan bridge. Whilst a portion of your coin- niand behaved handsomely, it appears that a number of the enlisted men, if not influenced by the example of, at least not checked or rallied by, certain commissioned officers, behaved shamefully. it is desired that the names of these officers be forwarded to these headquarters. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chi ~/ Staff and Assistant itc~jutant-Generai. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort B?~ffalo, Va., September 22, 1864. Licut. Col. J. 11. TAYLOR, Cli ief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General: COLONEL: I have the honor to report all quiet here since last even- ing. I herewith inclose an extract* from the report of Colonel Ganse- voort, Thirteenth New York Cavalry, referring to a fight between Mosby and a small party detached from his maill colmun Oil the last scout of the regiment. Not much confidence was placed in the report at the time of its receipt, but I now consider it certain that Mosby was really wounded in this fight in the groin and cheek, and I deem it just that the Thirteenth Regiment should have the credit attached to the affair. Private Henry Smith, of Company H, Thirteenth New York Cavalry, is the man who wounded him. It was a bold deed and Smith deserves credit for it. On the receipt of the communication from the assistant provost-marshal, Military Department of Washington, with your in- dorsement, a party of fifty men was sent to Centerville to find the house of 1)octor~ Ewell. On arriving there it was ascertained that I)octor Ewells residence is about four miles and a half from Aldie, on the east si(le of Bull Run Mountains and not near Centerville, as stated; and the U, officer in conimand not considering it prudent to proceed as far as this with the number of men he had with Imium, returne(I this morning. In sending a party to Aldie on this errand it would not be safe to send one numbering less than 200 men, and it has been deemed better for the party to go under cover of night. The report that Mosby is at l)octor Ewells is not confirmed by citizens about here. All agree in stating that he has been taken to Lynchburg for treatment. This was also ascertained from persons living neal Rapidan Station, who reported Extract not found; but see Gao~-yooi t; foil report, Part I, p. 616. 1-0 R RYOL XLIII. PT I Page 146 1~ OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. that Mosby crossed over the l)ridge on the 18th, and that he was on his way to either Lynchburg or llichmond. From these reports, coining as they do from two different parts of the country, it would appear that the statements are correct, and that Mosby has been taken ont of our reach into a safe location. In order to make sure, however, I will send a large party to Aldie at 10 oclock to-night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. M. LAZELLE, Cot. & xteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIm, FIRST I)iv., SIXTH Am~iv Coups, Winchester, Va.,] september 22, 18G4. Lient. Col. J. W. FoRsYTh, Chief of Ste fr~: SIR: I have the honor to report that there has beca collected thus far from the battle-field of the 19th instant 800 stand of small-arms, and that details are still at work collecting them. There is at present in the hands of the provost-marshal two pieces of artillery 12-pounders, brass, together with their gun carriage; one caisson (rebel), filled with ammunition, was brought in by the party collecting. It is impossible to forward a correct amid full report at this time, until further information is collected. The Confederate prisoimers at present in charge of the provost-marshal are being forwarded. guarded by Colonel Carries brigade, of the Nineteenth Corps, to Harpers Ferry. The dead of both sides have all been buried, witl~ the exception of a few, and details are at present at work collecting and interring them. All wagons that could be seized have been impressed into the service for the purpose of collecting and bringing in the wounded. There are many of these of the enemy still to be found in farmu-houses in the vicinity. I have had all the wagons belongimmg to mny brigade unloaded, amid they are imow arduously at work on this duty. One hundred wagons in all, including baggage wagons that were ordered to be unloaded and the empty ones on hand, reported to the medical director, by nmy order, at daylight this morning, amid the work of bringing in the wounded will undoubtedly be completed this p. m. Very respectfully, 0. EDWARDS, Colonel, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY C~RPS, Near Strasbnrg, Va., September 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to call your attention to a statement made by Richard L. Shelley, correspondent of the Baltimore American, in its issue of the 21st instant (copy herewith inclosed), misrepresenting me and my command. Mr. Shelley says: There was a delay of at least two hours, caused by the non-arrival of the Nine- teenth Army Corps, who throng-h a misconception of orders had failed to come up at the proper time. General Emory had moved his column in rear of the baggage train of the Sixth Corps, instead of keeping his comma A closed up in rear of the ~dvanciug columns of the Sixth Corps Page 147 CHAP. LV.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 147 The statement that I misconceived any orders is false~ I received ordei ~ from \Thjor-General Wright, to whom 1 was ordered to report, to mo~ e in iear of his wagons. I requested that my infantry anti artillerx nu~ht follow his troops, bnt it was not deemed necessary by him. I wo& ud not trouble you with the report of any ordinary news- paper U)H e~poadent, but this dispatch i: dated headqnarters Middle Militu~ Dni~ion, and is recognized generally as a semi-official report, andjiiditeto mybrave command, who lost so heavily on the 19th instant, demands that I respectfully request that this hdse statement may be offlcial]v denied at once. I am, general, respectfully, your most obedient servamit, W. H. EMORY, Brevet Alajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MiLITARY DIVISION, September 22, idGi. General MERRITT, First Dir isiofl GENERAL: General Torbert desires you to let him nnow as soon as the officer returns front Fort Valley. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, Jn., tssistan t Adjutant- General. hEADQuARTERS CAVALRY. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISlON, September 22, idGi. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that the command will move to-inoi-row a. m. at 5 oclock, in the following order: first, First 1)ivis- ion: second, wagon and ambulance trim in; third, Third Division. The column and trains must be kept well dosed up, and, nn(ler no circumstances, will any stragglers be left after the rear of the column. The route of march will be given you in the morning. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, Jm, A8sistan t A djata at- Gen er(( 1. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DivisioN, Bucks, September 22, i56iiO.iJ a. m. Major RUSSELL, As& istant A ~j a taut- General, iront Royal MAJOR: We auc here; find no pickets, aid, as yet, hear no news from Strasburg. There are no rebels in this or Fprt Valley, arid have been none since Kershaw left. About two nmiles this side of McCoys a road turns oft toward Brushy Bottom, and crosses the river three or four miles this side of Luray; not practicable for wagons, but can be used for cavalry. have sent to Strasburg and will communicate with you as soon as I hear. Very respectfully, you obedient sevviiiit, Brigadier- Ge Page 148 148 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY ,MJDDLE MILITARY i)LVISION, September 22, 1864. General WILsON: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you withdraw your pickets from their present line at daylight to-morrow a. m. The officer commanding the same will see that every man between here and the picket-line is brought in with the pickets. Similar orders have been sent to the First Division. The command will march to-morrow a. in. at 5 oclock, in the following order: first, First Division; second, wagons and ambulances; third, Third l)ivision. The column and trains must be kept well closed up, and, nnder no circumstances, must any stragglers be left behind the rear of the column. The route of march will be given to-morrow a. in. I am, general, very respectfully, & c., WiIXL RUSSELL, Jn., Assistant Adjutant- General. P. S.If your column has not marched by the time your I)iekets reach it, have them halted from one and a half to two miles out. W1~I. RUSSELL ,JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 22, 186412.50 a. m. Hon. E. M. STAT~TON, Secretary of War: Captain Ellis, inspector-general, General Torberts staft; just arrived from General Sheridan with captured battle-flags, & c.; goes by train to Washington. Sheridan holds Stra sburg; enemy holds Fishers I-fill. A heavy reconnaissance was being made as he left at3 p. in. yesterday; result not known. Respectfully, JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 22, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Jnst heard from Winchester. Sufficient medical supplies had ar- rived by first train for four days. My large supply train had arrived all safe1,O0O wagons. My other trains will all arrive to-day. I-lad made more than half distance, as party caine in all right. I sent out addi- tional train this morning of all tents, & e., received. it will arrive to- morrow. Have exhausted all quartermasters transportation. Shall to-day organize a train from regimental transl)ortation around post to clean out all medical stores, and send it forward in the morning. My great difficulty is escorts., have sent forward every soldier that can be used at this post; nothing left excef)t miiy necessary guards. Have not heard from front. Doctor Patton reports that it was currently re- ported in Winchester when he left that Sheridan had got possession of Fishers Hill, makimig considerable captures, but this is a most un- reliable rumor; I send it to you as such. Shall sen(l you the first veracious inforumation received. 410. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 149 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE ,ETC. UNION. 149 WAR DEPARTMENT. iVashington City, September ~?, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Harpers Perry: From 4,000 to 5,000 infimtry will be forwarded from here this evening to go on to Winchester. Please have every ~iecessary Preparation for them, so they can go forward without needless delay. EDWiN M. STANTON, kSeerel((ry of War HARPERS FEnny, September 22, 18bi1.J5 p. m. lIon. B. M. STANTON, Secretary ~f War: General Neill just arrived from Strasbnrg; reports all of our cavalry, except Averells command, sent to the let~t,to strike a rebel cavalry division supposed to be at Front Royal. Sheridan made strong infantry reconnaissance yesterday; General Neill (lid not know the result. Enemy were holding Fishers lull. You must not mistake my former dispatch in regard to prisonersexclusive of wounded they will reach 3,000; with wounded, approximate, 5,000. Respectfully, JNO. I). STEVENSON, Briqadier- General. P. S. (Not as authoritative).A reporter, who left last night, says the recoiinaissance resulted in gaining possession of a spur of Fishers Ilill, which he held. Nothing from other sources on the subject. J. D. S. HARPERS FERRY, X~A., ASeptember 22, 18618.50 p. mm. Hon. E. M. STANTON: First Lient. George E. Gilman, First New Hampshire Cavalry, re- ported at these headquarters to-day; says he started from Winchester last night with Major Fry, Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Capt. N. II. Brown, Lient. F. P. Stone, and Lieutenant Pressey, all of the First New Hampshire Cavalry, and five miles this side of Winchester the party was attacked by Mosby, and all captured but himself, he losiiig his horse. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 22, .1861Latest. Hon. B. M. STANTON, See retarq of War: One of my couriers just returned from front; left there at 7 a. In.; reports heavy skirmishin o yesterday. He ~ coin- inand moved beyond Strasbnrg this morning, and that he heard skir- mnishing as he left. However, he brings only receipt fiomn General Sheridans adjutant-general for dispatches sent forward, but nothing from lnm of the army operations. This is all I have heard not tele- grapheu, and, as you will perceive, of but little value. Respectfully, JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 150 150 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. low. LV. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, September 22, 1864. Jon W. GARnTT Esq., Ilaltimore: Be ready to move troops forward to Winchester immediately.8,OOO EDWIN M. STANTON Secretary of War. SPECIAL ORDns, HDQRS. DEPT. OP THE SuSQUEHAnA, No. 223. Chambersbvrg, Pa., September 22, 1864. 1. CoL F. Asbury Awl Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, is hereby placed in command of all the U. S. troops encamped near Back Creek. 2. CoL P. Asbury Awl, Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, commanding U. S. troops near Back Creek, will march his entire command on the morDing of the 23d instant for practice. S S S S S S 5. Capt Bruce Lambert, Independent Mounted Corn 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, will assume command of the U. S. troops in Columbia County, Pa~ S S 5 0 5 5 By command of Major-General Couch: flO. S. SCHULTZB, Assistant Adjsstant-Gesseral. HEADQUARTERs DEPARTmT OP THE SUSQuEHAnA, Chambersbwrp, Pa., September 22,1864. CoL F. AsEVRY AWL, 201st Itegiu.ent Pennsyirxusia VoWnteers: CoLonL: The commanding general directs that in carrying out the instructions contained in paragraphs 1 and 2, Special Order No. 223, headquarters Department of the Susquehanna, of this ate, you will march your command as follows: From your present camp to London; from thence to Cove Gap from thence to Camp Hill, via Mar- cersburg and Shimpstown; from damp Hill to Upton; from thence to Greencastle; from thence to Marchel Roads, three miles below Chain- bersburg; and from there direct to yourpresent places of encampment. The strictest discipline will be observed in the march, all officers to be with their regiments and companies. No straggling must be allowed. Camp guards sill be established before the troops stack arms on amy- ing in camp; No officer will be permitted to leave camp or their com- mands without proper authority from the commanding officer of the troops. The march will be an easy one, with frequent halts, and should be accomplished in four days. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. S. SCHUL~TZE, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 151 Cn~. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 151 BUFFALO, N. Y., September 22, 1864. (Received 8.20 p. in.) lion. E. 14. STANTON, Secretary of War: There are two regiments of New York militia at Elmira which can be ordered to the front if they are needed. They have about sixty days to serve. General Diven, if instructed, will send them at once. They are unmanageable where they are, but might be of use before Peters- burg. JOHN A. 1)IX, 3fr~jor- General. NEw YoRK, September 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Detroit, ]Lliieh.: Nothing to report of moment. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. WA1~ DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., September 23, 186410 p. m. Mrs. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Burlington, if Sheridan fought another great battle yesterday and won a splendid victory. EDWIN 14. STANTON, Secretary of War. WA5rnN~TON, September 23, 18642 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: It is believed that a large portion of the ties omi the Manassas Gap Railroad are too much decayed t be used. The railroad bureau thinks the road can be put in running order in about a week through the gap; the bridges across the branches of the Sheiiandoah will take somewhat longer. I have ordered a railroad officer, with a cavalry detachment, to examine the road, and as soon as he reports will telegraph more fully. The country is wooded amid full of guerrillas, and it will probably require a pretty large force to guard the road. About 5,000 troops have been sent fromu here to General Sheridan, via Harpers Ferry, last night and to-day. Colonel McKelvy reports that the men erroneously sent to City Point were not sent fromn Alexandria, but fromn New York and the East diiect. On tlmeir arrival at Alexandria the matter will be fully investigated. II. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chif of Staff WASHINGTON, & ptember 23, lt%44.00 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: I now learn that Manassas Gap Railroad can be put in running order to Piedmont, sixteen miles from Fromit Royal, in three days. Fromn ther Page 152 152 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. to Front Royal all the iron of the track has been carried away, and it will require about a week to replace it. From Front Royal to Strasburg all the bridoes, which are very long, have been destroyed and the rails removed; but it is thought that Front Royal will serve all the pur- poses for the defense of the Valley that Strasburg would, a j)ontoon bridge being established across the river at that place. Before any decision is arrived at in regard to the location of a depot, a competent engineer officer should be sent to examine the relative merits of Front Royal and Strasburg. Winchester is not susceptible of defense without a very large garrison to occupy the surrounding heights. I would also remark that the Orange railroad to Culpeper and the Rapidan can be repaired in three days. I will have everything in readiness to begin the work on either road the moment I receive your orders. We can picket it. from Alexaiidria to Thoroughfare Gap, but General Sheridan must defend it beyond. To put it in operation within the time specified, I will require working parties all along the road at the same time. H. W. HALLECK, ]Ifajor- General and Chief of Stafl. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvIsioN, Woodstocle, Va., September 23, 18G48 a. m. Lientenant-General GRANT, Comnwndiny Armies of the United States, City Point: I cannot as yet give you any definite account of the results of the battle of yesterday; our loss will be light. General Crook struck the left flank of the enemy, doubled it up, advancing down aloiig their line. Ricketts division, of the Sixth Army Corps, swung in and joined Crook, Gettys and Wheatons divisions taking up the same movement, fol- lowed by the whole line and, attacking beautifully, carried the works of the enemy. The rebels threw (lown their arms and fled in the greatest confusion, abandoning most of their artillery. It was dark before the battle ended. I pursued on after the enemy during the night to this point, with the Sixth and Nineteenth Army Corps, and have stopped here to rest the mcii and issue rations. If General Torbert has pushed down the Luray Valley, according to my directions, he will achieve great results. 1 do not think that there ever was an army so badly routed. The Valley soldiers are hiding away and going to their homes. I can- not at present give you any estimate of prisoners. I pushed on regard- less of everything. The number of pieces of artillery reported cap- tured is sixteen. P. Ii. SHERIDAN, ]lft~jor- General. CITY POINT, VA., September 23, 18G48 p. in. Major-General SHERIDAN, Strasburg, Va I have just received the news of your second great victory, and ordered 100 guns in honor of it. Keep on, and your work will cause the fall of Richmond. U. S. GRANT, Lieu tenon t- General Page 153 CHAP. LY.1 CORI~ESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 153 WOOIDSTOCK, VA., September 23, 186110 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Ye.: I have the honor to request the iromotioll of Brevet Major-General Crook to the full rank of major-general. His good conduct, and the good conduct of his command, turned the tide of battle in our favor both at Winchester and Fishers Hill. I also respectfully ask the promotion of Col. I. H. Duval, of the Ninth Virginia Volunteer Infantry, com- manding a division of Geiieral Crooks command. Colonel Duval was wounded in the battle at Winchester. These promotions are meritorious. V. ii. SIIERIT)AN, Major- General. lindorsementi Forwarded to the Secretary of War, with a request that these pro- motions be made. IT. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. W AsnINGTON, Septem ber 23, 1864. Lientenant-Geni GRANT, City Point: May I come an(l see von at City Poiiiti~ I). HUNTER, Major- General. CITY POINT, September 23, 1864. Major.General HUNTER, lEash ington Certainly you can. Come an(l see inc here. IT. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General WASHINGTON, ID. C.. & ptember 23, 18b4. Captain LERT: Scouts returned this morning from agent at Fahnonth, and report that Kershaws division, while on their way east (after leaving Earlys command), on the i9th instant mitet a body of our cavalry near Rapi- dan Station and drove them to the north si(ie of the river. This divis- ion was undoubtedly on the march to Richmond, and the geiieral sup- positioii is that Earlys whole force will fall back on that place. The agent confirms the reported death of Generals Rodes and Gordon. Cars are now ruunin~ on the Fredericksburg aiid Richmond Railroad as far north as Hamiltons Crossing. Agent also reports that the enemy have a large quantity of stores at Gordonsville. Flour is sell- ing at ~4 per pound, aII(l there is consideral)ie talk through the conii- ti-y in regard to the abandonment of Petersburg. It is ~enerally sup- posed that the scarcity of provisions and high prices will soon compel the enemy to hill back fioni his present line of defense. \Tery respectfully, your obedient servant, I. MOENTEE, (Japtain, & e Page 154 154 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. [SEPTEMBER 23, 1864.For Special Orders, No. 41, Middle Military Division, relieving Averell from duty, & c., and instructions from Sher- idan to Averell, see Part 1, p. ~O5.j CIRCULAR.J HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Woodstoek, Septeniber 23, 1864. Corps commanders will have their corps in readiness to niove at 12 oclock to-day. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTh, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief f ~t,f WASHINGTON, I). C., September 23, 1864. Major-General AUGUR: GENERAL: Major-General Halleck directs that you cause a sufficient cavalry escort to accompany the engineer officer who has been (lireeted to examine the Manassas Gap Railroad. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. KELTOK, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHING-TON, 22D ARMY CORPS, General HARDIN, September 23, 186410.15 p. m. Commanding Division Scud the cavalry company on (luty with you to its regiment at once. it is required Thr important duty there for the present. Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, ilftjor. General Comrnandinq. HDQI?S. DEPARTMENT OF WAShING-TON, 22D ARMY CORPS General DE R~ss~, ASeI)tember 23, .1864. Comm an ding Division, near Fort (Joreoran Please send the cavalry eolnimny at Fort Ethaii Allen to its regiment at once. It will be returned to you again in a few (lays. Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Comm an ding. ALEXANDI? LA, iSeptember 23, 1864. Colonel TAYLOR, (Received 8.15 i~. in.) Assistant Adjutant-General COLONEL: The patrols report all quiet to-day. Ii. H. WELLS, Lieutenant- Colonel, & e Page 155 CnAP. LV.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.---UNION. 155 ALE XANDR~A, September 23, 1664. (Received 9.40 p. ni.) Cal. I). C. McCALLUM: My assi~tmt, sent to examine the Manassas Gal) road, has returned, 9.15 p. in. He went to Falls Church and reported to Colonel Lazelle, who said he had not a sufticient force to go beyo~1 White Plains, and would have to send to Washington before starting. He is to notify me when 1ea(ly. E. L. WENTZ. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Q~? 1864 2ear lort ila flab, lTa., September Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Oh ief of Staff aad A8sistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. A force of 200 men sent up the country south of Aldie last night to look for Mosby at l)octor Ewells house has not yet returned. It is expected in to-night. V cry resl)eCtfuhly, your obedient servant, 1-1. At. LAZELLE, Cal. ixteenth Yew lark (a calry, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE~ Near Fort Buffalo, Va., September 23, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjatant- General: COLONEL: ~IIn reply to your communication of this date, concerning the escort to be furnished to an engineer to be sent to examine the Manassas Gap Railroad, I have the honor to inform you that I have communicated with the engineer sent, a1~(1 have informed 1dm that in my opinion it would be extremely hazardous to send a force of ~l50 men farther than the vicinity of Piedmont, and that a greater force than thiat cannot be spared from here with present dispositions. Even under these circumstances a portion of the picket-line would have to h)e re- moved. He states that he desires to examine the railroad to Strasbnrg. I have postponed all action awaiting your re~)ly, ali(i have informed him that on receipt of it I would conununicate with the supermteiideiit of mitihitary railroads at Alexandria, Mr. E. L. Wentz. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Al. LAZELLE, Cal. Si teenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Cam dg. Cavalry Drtgade. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, P. C., September 23, 186410.15 p. m. Colonel LAZELLE, Commanding Ca rabry Brigade, Falls Church, Va.: Send the escort, and make it as strong as you deem necessary. I will send you other men to make your line good. Let me know the imuniber you require. I will return the companies at either Ethan Allen, Fort Rena, or at Alexandria. Will that be sufficient ~ ilespeettully. yOurS, C. C. AUGUR, 11 ajar- General, Commanding Page 156 156 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. ORDERS.} IIEADQUARThRS SIXTH CORPS, & ptember 23, 1864. The corps will hold itself in readiness to utiove at (3 oclock promptly to-morrow morning. By command of Major-Genera I Wright: C. 11. WHITTELSEY, A.s~istant Adjutant- (ieneral. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Brevet Major-General CROOK, & ~ptcrnber 23, 1861. Commanding Army of We8t Virginia: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you have your command in readiness to move forward at 3 oclock to-morrow morning. Very respectfully, your obedici it servant JAS. W. FORSYTH, (Same to Brevet Major-General Emory.) Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY i)IVISIoN, Wood8tock, ITU,, September 28, i8G49.~Io a. m. Brevet Major-General TORBERT, Chief ~?/ Cavalry The general directs inc to inform you that he is n~w here. The enemy is perfectly and completely demoralized and routed. Devin s command is now six miles ahead, and pushing the enemy. Earlys army is nothing but a routed mob. Your rations and forage are here. The general directs me to say that he will move down the Valley and take your train with him. If you had gone down the Lui-ay Valley, as the general thought you would, we would have captured nearly all of Earlys army. We took sixteen pieces of artillery, horses, small-arms, and a number of prisoners at Fishers Hill. General Sheridan directs that you push down the Luray Valley, without regard to horseflesh. You can connect with us at some place below this and obtain your rations and forage. JAS. W. FORSYTh, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Sta fll HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Bucktou, Va., September 23, 18G111.30 a. m. Lient. Col. J. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: A men just in from New Market, sent to General Torbert, says there are no troops in Powells Valley, and a pretty good road through it from this place to Woodstock, twenty miles (histant; not a soldier on the m-oad. No troops passing- from Staunton to Strasburg, lint there are many wounded going to ward mcIti oon d. Ch urcim es, school-hon ses, an(i p~i vate residences at V~oO(l5tOck a mid Mount Jackson turin med into ho Page 157 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 157 pitals, and people say Early was badly beaten and cannot make a stand till he gets to Port Republic. They fear a movement through Luray or Page Valley. Though, from the fact that the trains of the troops which were in our front yesterday went by XXoodstock and New Mar- ket, they will probably make a vigorous defense. All the pickets say the enemy had infantry yesterday at Milford, and the people of the country have a report that Kershaw was ordered back and had arrived at Milford. There is no proof that this is so. hi the fight yester(lay Colonel Wells reports he he~rd the enemy in the woods giving coin- inaiids, load, fire, & c., not usual in cavalry. Five thousand infantry in Page Valley, either at O-ooiiey Run, Milford, or Luray, and doubtless other places, could hold it against 40,000 men. There is a pretty cavalry 5i(le of South Fork to Luray, crossing river at Brushy Bottom, six or eight miles from Luray; impracticable for wagons, nearly so. We are entirely out of provisions, horses worked down, and very little forage in the country. What is news? Very respectfully, your obedient servant~~ Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILiTARY DIvISIoN, September 23, 1361a p. m. General NNiLso~: GENERAL: In pursuance of the inclosed dispatch* from General Sheridan, the chief of calvary directs that you move with your com- mand as quickly as possible across the river at McCoys Ford, ail(l march to the position we halted in last night, where he will join you with the First Division. General Torbert thinks you had better send your battery back to Strasburg, with as small an escort as l)ossible, where it may join some of the army tr ins; also send with it all your dismounted men, and let them remain with it until further orders. I am, general, very respectftilly, & c., WM. RUSSELL, Jm, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY I)IVISION, Buekton, September 23, 18645.15 p. m. Major-General TORBERT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: We have been waiting orders. Come over here and stay to-night. Martins battery is here waiting for Merritt. What must be done with it? Please send orders by Mr. Mayell. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, - J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, September 23, 13b1. The followino- dispatch, just received from Strasburg, is published for the information of the command: SmxsluTuc, ASeplernlwr 22, 1861. Maj or-General TORBERT, Corn ma. ndinq: I have just reached here. General Sheridan has gone on to Woodstock with the army; great victory here last night; a large number of guns captured from the See Forsyth to Torbert, 9.30 a. in., p. 156 Page 158 15S OPERATioNS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. enemy, fifteen or twenty in all; immense uiiiaber of prisoners taken. This informa- tion is given me by Lieutenant Nolan, Sixth Cavalry, who is just from headquarters. Their army is in full retreat. Colonel I)eviu is in a(lvanee, following them lip rapidly. His guns have been heard this morning. Our trains have all gone up the Valley. (+EO. B. SANFORD, A ide-dc ( amp. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SIEBERT, A8sistant Adjutant- General. IIEADQTARTE RS TILInD CAVALRY iMVISION, September z1, fS(Ni.45 j). m. General GEORGE H. CHAPMAN, Commanding ~Seeond Brigade: GENERAL: The geucral directs that you call in all the i)ickets at the ford (McCoys), and order the regiment to remain for the present at passage of creek, about two miles front here, on the road we traveled on this morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Ii. SIEBERT, It8SiStd( at A d~ntan t- (Jenerat. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. SECONT) CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT (1? WEST VIRGINIA, No. 33. ) Ia the Field, September 23, 1864. In accordauce with Special Ordeis, Jo. 41, headquarters Middle Mili- tary l)ivision, of this d te, I hereby relinquish the command of this (livision. In doim~g so I request the officers an(l men to accept my siii- cere thanks for the uniform obediench and respert they have shown to my orders, and the personal kindness they have always exteadedi to mvseW I shall never forget, my comrades, what ii owe to you. What- ever of reputation or rank I have gained during the last year was given to me by this command. Since the 1st of May we have marched over 1,800 miles. Five hundlred comrades who have t dien in twenty battles attest the devotion with which you have don ~oui duty; an(l 7 battle-flags, 13 cam ion, and over I ,~O0 prisoners captui cdl h oin the enemy exhibit some of the rernlts of your work. My m~socmftmons with you will hereafter be am ong my most cherished memoin ~ and I ~hall read the recordi of yonr deeds from day to (lay with e~g~r interest. My regret in severing- the ties that bind us is somewhat lcsseiiod by the knowledge that I am leaving you in the hands of that tried and trusty soldier, Col. XV. II. Powell, in whom the utmost confidence may be placed. I would rather serve in your ranks than leave you, but I am only permitted to say farewell. WM. W. AVEIIELL, Brevet Major- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 23, 18642.40 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Sheridan has again beaten the enemy at Fishers Hill, capturing sixteen guns an(i many prisoners. This is, im~ all probability, the finale of General Early. Respectfully, JNO. D. STEVEN SON, Brigadier- General Page 159 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 159 HAI~PEL1~S FERRY, September 23, ThGi. (Received 3.10 p. in.) lion. E. M. STM~TON: Military line down. The affair is complete and overwhelming. Respectfully, JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 23, i& iI 10.50 p. m. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary ~/ War: Conner jnst arrived nom Winchester. He reports that 3,000 pris- oners had arrived from General Sherid n at that point; that he was pressing the remnant of Earlys command with great vigor. A train of 600 of our Winchester wounded is coming in. Have ample room in hospital, with proper attendants, to make them comfortable. Our wounded accumulated at Winchester amount to 4,000. Respectfully, JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, I). C., September 23, 18642 p. m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: About 5,000 men leave here to-day for Sheridan. Send them forward with trains. You can use some temporarily at Martinsburg to protect workmen, if necessary. 11. W. HALLECK, ~iftmyor- General and Chi~f of Stafr CAMDEN STATiON, Baltimore, September 23, 1864. Hon. E. 21. STANTON, Secretary of~ War: Full preparations were made for moving 5,000 men last p. in., and time locomotives and trains continued in readiness throughout the night. The first portion of the movemeuf commenced to arrive at 8.20 this morning, and at 10 oclock 1,405 men, with six cars, horses amid bag- gage, left the station for Harpers Ferry. Up to this hour, 11.30 a in., uo other troops have reported. We continue fully prepared to move them successfully ou arrival. Our working forces west of Harpers Ferry have been compelled to go forward without a solitary guard, General Stevenson stating that he is unable to supply a man. 1)nring yesterday a number of suspicious characters, supposed to be guerrillas, alarmed the men amid interfered with the work. Cannot some force be detailed to protect the workmen iu the vicinity of Martinshung, as no Federal forces are there? If some of the mcmi going forward from Washington could be ordered direct to Van Clevesville it would umate- rially facilitate our operations. If this cannot be done iu the present safe condition of the Middle Departmemit, could not a regimnent be ordered from the command of General Wallace temporarily, to protect the workmeu during time opening of the road ~ J. W. GARRETT, President Page 160 160 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. WAR I)EPARTMENT, Washington City, September 23, 1864. JOHN W. GARRETT, Esq., Baltimore: I (iireete(l General Halleek to authorize Stevetison to detain a regi- ment for guard to Martinsbnrg. Sheridati has sluaShe(I Early again. EDWI ~ 21. STANTON, Secretary oJ War. WAShINGTON l)EPOT, September 23, 1864. lion. E. 21. STANTON: Four huu(lre(l aiid fifty men of the One hundred and fourth Penn- sylvania are now at this depot. Officer in coinmaml says he cannot get ready to move to Winchester until to-morrow morning, in conse- quence of having about 200 men whose term has expired and who are to go to Philadelphia. He has to assort these men from the rest of the regiment. I have transportation ready for them. (~. S. KOONTZ. HEADQUARTERS 21 ILITARY I)ISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, W. Va., September 28, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel CARR, 165th New liorh Volunteers: SIR: You will assemble your command, except the picket guard on post, and be ready to relieve Colonel Curries counnand from the duty of guarding prisoners, on the arrival of th t coinniand on Bolivar Heights. By order of Brigadier-General Stevenson: ii. 21. BURLEiG H, Assistant Adjuta at- General. HEADQUA RTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF hARPERS FERRY~ Harpers Ferry, W. Va., September 23, 1861. Capt. 1). 21. KEYES, In dependent Loudo am Rangers The general commanding directs that you proceed into Loudonn County, Va., with your whole eonnnand, on a scout, and clear the coun- try as much as possible of guerrillas. You will report in writing to these headqnarters upon your return. Itespeettully, yours, & c., S. F. AJ)AI2IS, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 28, 1864. Hon. E. 21. STANTON, Secretary of War: Workmen on Baltimore and Ohio IRailroad near Martinsburg are timid. Major-General Sheridan is very anxious to have the depo Page 161 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 161 established at Maitiiisburg as soon as possible. I am placed in corn- mand at Martivisburg, and have not adequate force. Cau one or two regiments of troops fit for depot duty be ordered to report to me at once? THOS. 11. NEILL, Brigadier- (Un era 1, (Jommanding at ]Iiartinsbnrg. CAMDEN STATIoN, [Septemberj 23, 1864. Major-General KELLEY: Our workmen are pressing rapidly from Yaii Clevesyille toward Martinsburg. I judge from our advices that Mr. Porters action is also eftPctive from the west. General Sheridan in pursuing his suc- cesses is requiring his men at the front, and guards have theretbre not beeu sent with our construction forces from Harpers Ferry. Can you throw your guards east to aid in covering our workmen against any roving guerrillas that may lurk in the vicinity of Martinsburg ~ Such action will be beneficial iu assuring the rapid completion of the road. \\TC hope to have the route in full operation on Monday next, if sufficient military protection is furnished. J. W. GARRETT. IIEADQLTARTERS KANAWIJA Foucns, (iharleston, AS4tember 23, 1864. Captain BOTSFORD, Asst. Ac~jt. (Un., Dept. ~f West Virginia, harpers Ferry: From a scouting party just returned from toward Lewisbnrg I have the following report: General Echols is collecting all the forces he can. for the imri~osc of making a raid in this valley; that he hus 1)etween 1,500 and 2,000 men. General Echols sent in a tiag of truce to me with eiohtv-~even refn~ees. I the Ih~ l~ack followed and learned that a considerable body uf rebels are at Lewisbnrg and one regiment of cavalry this side. An undoubted loyal man, who comes in with the refugees, confirms this statement. This man is a member of the H. of A. The regiment of cavalry sent to me is dismounted, ai 1(1 over 200 unarmed. CIER. C. SULLIVAN, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS KANAWIIA FORCES, Charleston, ~September 23, 1864. Major-General IIEINTZELMAN, North cut Department, Columbus: Information, which I believe reliable, received from my front, mdi- cates General Echols preparing for a raid into this valley. My forre is smallbut one effective regiment. The rebel force will not exceed 2,000 men. If the regiment stationed at Gallipolis could be held in readimmess to re-enforce me if I needed it, I am certain I could whip them off. I am so far from Major-General Crook, and communication with him being very difficult, that I telegraph you direct. Echols is reported to be at Lewisburg. JER. C. SULLiVAN, Dr iya(lier- General, (lomm an ding. 11 R RVOL XLILJ. PT 1 Page 162 1 (~ OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CLARKSBURG, September 23, 1864. Brevet Major- General KELLEY: The picket, consisting; of some twenty men, at Burnt House, on Shavers Fork, was attacked this morning at 4 oclock, and captured. Particulars not known yet at Beverly. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ JIDQRS. MIDDLE DEPT., Sm ARMY CoRPs, No. 82. Baltimore, September 23, 1864. Capt. Oliver Matthews, assistant adjutant-general volunteers, having reported at these headquarters, in obedience to paragraph 38, Special Orders 309, Adjutant-Generals Office, September 19, 1864, is announced as on the staff of the major-general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By coinniiand of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Ass istant A djutant- General. X\AR 1)EPARTMENT, Washington City, September 23, 18649 p. m. Governor CURTIN: Yesterday afternoon at 4 oclock Major-General Sheridan attacked the rebel forces under General Early, intrenched in a strong position on Fishers Hill, a short distance south of Strasburg, and after a fierce struggle the rebel army was completely routed. General Sheridan re- ports that his forces achieved a most signal victory, and that the enemy lied in the utmost confusion; that only darkness saved the whole of Earlys army from destruction. At 11.80 oclock last night Sheridans army had pursued the rebels to within six miles of Woodstock. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY i)IVISlON, Two Miles from Edenbnrg, SeptLmber 21, 18646 p. m. (Received 25th.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States: The result of the battle of Fishers lull gives us 20 pieces of artillery, 1,100 prisoners of war, a large amount of artillery ammunition, caissons, limbers, & c. Early expected to stay at Fishers lull, amid had placed all fiis artillery ammunition behind the breast-works. A large amount of intrenching tools, small-arms, and debris were also taken; no ac- curate list received. I have been disappointed in the cavalry oper- ations which were to have formed a part of this battle. My advance was near Mount Jackson last night. The whole army is miow moving forward. The country and small towns through this valley have a great many of the enemys wounded. P. 11. SIIER1l)AN, Major- General, Commanding Page 163 CHAP. LV.] CORRES1~ONDENC E, ETC.UNION. 1(33 Six MILES SOUTH OF NEW MARKET, 21. 18(i) ASeptcmbcr 111.20 p. in. (Received 26th.) Lieute~iaiit-General GnANI, (itq Point Va I have the honor to report that I (irove the enemy from Mount Jack- son to six miles beyond New Market without being able to bring oui an eiigageinent. The enemy moved rapidly. I had rio cavalry present to hold them. General Torbert attacked \~ickhams men at Luray, and caPtured 100 prisoners. I have tound rebel hospitals in all the towns from Winchester np to this l)lace, all containing a number of wounded. I am now eighty miles front Martinsburg, al!(l #111(1 it exceedingly dif- ticiilt to supply this army. The engagements of Winchester and Fishers Hill broke up my original plan of pushing up the Valley with a certain amount of supplies and then returning. There is not sufficient in the Valley to live oft the country. I shonld have mentioned some (lays ago that Kershaws division left for Richmond about the 16th or 1 7th of September. When I last heard from it it was at Sperryville. It~ is reported to inc that it has returned to the Valley. No other trool)s have left Early, either of cavalry or infantry. iBreckinridge has gone in p~5on to command the 1)epartment of the Southwest. P. 11. SIIERII)AN, Major- General. WINcHEsTER, VA., September 21,1861. (Received 7.45 J). in.) lii g. Geim. J. K. BAnNES, Surgeon- General: 1 sent yesterday 700 worinded to Sandy Hook hospital. There are still 8,800 here, including 700 rebels. i learn that more wounded men are on their way to this place from the front. i must send to harpers Ferry the slightly wounded as rapidly as l)ossible. A tent hospital ot 1,800 beds is now organized here. I have assigned Surgeoii Shields, First Delaware Cavalry, to duty as medical purveyor, and directed him to makc requisitions on Surgeon Cox for some additional articles re 4Jiuire(l. I wonld suggest that l)recautiolls be taken to prevent over- crowding at Sandy hook. J. II. HRINTON, Sargeon, U. S. Volunteers. OuuIlEus. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY I )rvIsro~, New Marl1et, Va., September 21, 1861. Corps commanders will have their commands in rea(liiless to march at 6 a. in. to-morrow. By connitand of Major-General sheridan JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieaten(olt-Colonei and Chief of Staff Page 164 1 (U OPERATJO~S IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. SPECIAL OnDERS. IIDQRS. i)EPT. OF WAShiNGTON, TWENTY SECOND ARMY CORPS, No. 289. ) September 21, 1864. * * * * 2. The Ninth Colnl)alIy New Hampshire heavy Artillery, having reported at these headquarters iii obedience to orders, will be reported without delay to Brigadier-General Hardin, comii iandii g divi sioii, for duty. * -~ By comnian d ot Major-General Augur: C. 11. RA.YMONi), A SStStU itt Adjut(Ott- General. IIEADQVARTERS 11 ARi)JNS DIVISION, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS, I)EPT. OF WASHiNGTON, Washington, .1). C., September 21, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel TAYLOR, Chief ot Staff and Assistant Adjahoit- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that Captain hatchs coIn- pa~~ (A, Thirteenth New York Cavalry) started to join its regiment at 7 a. m. this day. Very respectfully, your obedient servai it, III. ft HAIIDiN, Briqa dier- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 24, 1864. Major MAITE Commanding Eighth Illinois Carairy The major-general commanding directs that Major Browns coin- matid move September 23, a. m. Report departure and strength. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR Chief of Staff (01(1 Assistant Adjutant- General. hii)(~)R5. DEPARTMENT OF WASHiNGTON, 221) ARMY CORPS, Washington, 1). C., September 24, 18(14. Major WAiTE, Commanding Eighth illinois Ca ca iry, near iflainesto wu: Captain Hatchs company has been relieved. It will be necessary for you to establish a l)icl~et at Roekville. 1 can obtain no informa- tion of the man CloI)l)er. .~. H. TAYLOR, Ch ie o Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. MuI)Dv BRANCH, MD., September 24, 1864. (Received 8 p. in.) Lient. Col. .3. hi. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff an(1 A ss~stan t Adjutant- General: COLONEL: Will scud picket to Rockvihle at once. After Major Browns command ooes it will take one company tor Rockville and Dames Page 165 (HAP. LV.i CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.--UNJON. 165 le seven small ~- town, lcavjnr ~ ~A)JI!1)ctL1IU~ to glLar(1 the river, which is now falling and is now fordable, and for other duty cannot place over Pvc companies on picket on river, which will be hardly more than eno~i~h for a line of vedettes. Cant I have-my other battalion l Respectfully, JOIINM. WAITE, Comm an HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY I3RIGADE, A ear Port B~fl2alo, Fe., Sijptember 21, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Ste/f and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: In reply to the communication of the major-general com- manding of 10.15 p. m. of to-night, * I have the honor to inform you that I will endeavor to send an escort of 600 men. I deem that this is the least possible number that should go, since their route is through IXlanassas Gap, Front Royal, & c. Should this force be sent it would reqnire to replace them here at least 200 men. I should like one coin- pany of infantry, in addition to the three companies of cavalry which are to be sent from Forts Reno and Ethian Allen, and Alexandria, as it is probable that their united effective strength is not over 150 men. 1 have notified the superintendent of military railroads that the escort will be ready this afternoon, the 24th instant. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Al. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Corn dg. Caralvy Brigade. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASiINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 24, 1864. Col. H. Al. LAZELLE, Commanding Ca raln~ Brigade COLONEL: In reply to your communication of this date I am di- rected by the major-general commanding to inform you that inasmuch as General Sheridan has driven, by his complete and decisive victory near Strasburg, the enemy entirely south of the Manassas Gap Railroad, an escort of 500 men is deemed sufficient with which to make the reconnaissance proposed. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE. Near Port Baffalo, Va., September 21, 1864. Lient. Co]. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that Colonel Gansevoort, Thirteenth Regiment New York Volunteer Cavalry, left this evening, with about 500 men and the engineer, for the examination of the See 23d, p. 155 Page 166 1C13 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD, AND PA. [CHAP. LV. Manassas Gap Railroad. Siil(C iiiy rCl)Ort to you of the 21st instant concerning the scout to the ilapidan, five mcii have conic in, one of theni wounded reducin o our loss to 22 men and I officer. I have made careful inquiries concerning the conduct of certain officers, and am cer- tam that I cannot, without much hesitation, present names of officers for cei~sure to your headquarters. All have a multiplicity of excuses, some circumstances in which are l)altially confirmed by reports of others. Certain it is, however, that iVJaj. George 11. Bosworth, Sixteenth Reghiwut New York Volunteer Cavalry, iii command of the idvance guard, was sent two orders, one to move to his right to (1 positioii to join inc and the second to halt. Neither of these orders wcre xphdtly obeyed, or only partially, and but for a moment. On ann~ino at the ford and finding no enemy there lie did not halt for the rest of the (oin- mand, notwithstanding that he was not pursued. The fohowino named officers left their companies and went ahead with the advance gu nd, joining Major Bosworth: Lient. H. P. Field, Sixteenth Re iment New York Volunteer Cavalry; Lieutenant Earned, Sixteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry; and in my opinion the conduct ot more than half the officers with the command is deserving of the severest censure in not controlling and giving orders to their men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Corn dy. Ca cc ivy Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Bmyfalo, Y(i., September 21, 1864. Maj. G. G. HORTON, Sixteenth New York Volw;iteer Ca raln~: The colonel commanding tlirect~ that you have a ~)arty of ninety-two men and complement of officers, including Captain McPhersons com- pany, ready to leave this camp at 4 p. m. this day, with three (lays rations and forage omi the saddle. Each trooper must be provided with thirty rounds of carbine and four packages of pistol ammunition, and the horses well shod before starting; also that you prepare to go with the party additional rations and forage in wagons sufficient to supply for two days a pirty of 150 men, the weight being so divided that no wagon will have to carry more than 2,500 pounds weight. An extra supply of ammunition will also be taken iu the wagons (at least ten rounds of carbine per man), and extra fore and hind shoes for the horses. Very resf)ectfully, your obedient servant, EI)WIN Y. LANSING, First Lieutenant an(i Acting Assistant A djut ant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fails Church, Va., September 24, 1864. C~A. H. S. GANSEVOORT, Thirteenth Regiment New York Volunteer (Jarairy: COLONEL: You will proceed with the escort of 500 men nnder your command to escort Mr. Bartraiu, the engineer sent to make an exaini- nation of the Manassas G~ip Railroad. Everything else will be subo Page 167 CfIAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE. ETCUNION. 167 dinate to this object, but the capture and destruction of the enemy, or his property, so thr as may be presented to your opportunities, will be carried on. The route and the distance to be traveled to reach the farthest point desired have all been preseiited to Major-General Angur, and in his opunon the force under your command (~0O mcii) is deemed sufficient. You will accordingly conI})lete the survey as far as may be (lesired, unless prevented by the enemy. xrery respectfully, your obedient servant, [I. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth ATew York Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY Div Siox, Colonel EDWARDS, New Marke~, September 24, 1864. Commandu~y U. S. Forces, lVineh ester: COLONEL: The major-general coin mandin g- directs that you send for- ward without delay (on the receiptof this communication) the supply train now at Winchester, containing four days rations, & c., for this army. You will detail an escort from the troops at Winchester. The corn- nianding officer of the escort will be held responsible for the safety of the train. I have to inform you, in this connection, that 5,000 troops arrived yesterday and to-day at Harpers Ferry, en route to Winchester. This supply train must be started without fail on the receipt of this note, and should be pushed forward to this command rapidly. Very respectfully, & c., JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. CAVALRY Comps, MIDDLE MILiTARY DIVISION, & ptember 21, 18648 p. m. General MERRITT: Yours* just received. I have not determined definitely which road I shall go, over the mnoitutain or up the valley. If up the valley, I will use both roads. I hope to hear from the army some time to-night. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TORIBERT, Brevet Major- General and Chief of Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY l)IVISION, September 24, 18649 p. m. General MERRITT; GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that your command be held in readiness to move at 5.30 a. m. to-morrow. have your dismounted men assembled at your headquarters under charge of aim officer to be sent to New Market; also your prisoners, if any, not yet turned over to the l)rovost-niarshal at these headquarters. Those now with him will also be sent to your headquarters and be sent to New Market at the same time. Very respectfully, & c., WiVI. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant A dju tan t- General. Not found Page 168 168 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (HAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT or WEST VIRGINIA, in the Field, September 21, 1864. Lent. Col. C. KINGSBURY, Assistant Adjutant- General, Middle Military Dir ision: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that I may be granted per- mission to go to my home at Bath, N. Y., instead of Wheeling, XV. Va., to await orders, as I can be communicated with there as quickly as at the latter place. For a long time I have been suffering from chronic dysentery, which has recently attacked me with iiicrease(l violence. For the benefit of my health I request this indulgence. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. W. AVEItELL, Breret Major- General. HARPERS FERRY, ASeplember 24, 18646 a. m. E. XI. STANTON, Secretary of War: Sheridan is at Woodstock. His victory at Fishers Hill is the anni- hilation of Earlys army as an effective organization. Torbert moved down Luray Valley. If he found a passage into the main valley, as it is believed he has done, he will capture the remaining flying fragments. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 24, 1864. E. XI. STANTON, Secretary of War: Couriers just in from Sheridan. The report of captures, heretofore made, both at Winchester and Fishers Hill, are too large. The Win- chester prisoners, wounded included, will not reach by actual count more than 3,000. I can only hear certainly of 1,000 prisoners at Fishers Hill this does not include the captures made in the pursuit. Sheridan is at Woodstock. Nothing heard from Torbert so far as I can learn. Respectfully, JOHN T). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, September 21, 1864. E. XI. STANTON, Secretary of War: With the increase of distance and additions to the force of Major- General Sheridans army, there ought to be at once at least 300 wagons sent to this post and Martin sburg, to carry forward necessary supplies, to be held as post teams iintependent of army supply. Tb is would enable ns to meet promptly nnexpecte(l demands, and is a reserve abso- lntel requisite for an army the size of General Sheridans, operating so ffir front its buse. ~HtC lOss of one train by a careless officer woflJ( Page 169 CHAP. LV.] I(3 9 (OER ESPONI)ENCE, ETC.UNIO N~ defeat a caiipaigil. if you will allow mc Ii 8110111(1 1ik~ to sl~l)mit my O~1lli0ll of the true avenue of supplyeconomizing transl)ortation aiid at the same time holding the entire country free from the predatory bands of Mosby and others. Respectfully, JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. hARPERS FERRY, ASeptember 24, 1864. (Received 8 p. in.) Col. X\JLLIAM HOFFMAN, Corn in issary- General of Pri8oners: One thousand three hundred and eighty enlisted men and 117 officers have arrived; 800 enlisted men sent to Point Lookout; 580 will be sent to same destination to-morrow. A.s soon as enlisted are sent off the officers will be sent to Fort Delaware. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS FORCES ~AEST o~ PIEmIoNq, & c., (Jlarksburg, W. Va., September 24, 1864. Lient. C. A. FREEMAN, Acting As8istant A~jntant- Gene al, Cumberland, lid.: LIEUTENANT: I this evening received a telegram from Lieutenant- Colonel Youart, in answer to inquiries about the capture of the picket- post at Burnt House. He says: The rebels that captured the picket-post at Burnt House took to the mountains in great haste. Capt. J. K. Furrow, in command of the pickets. The rebels took with them Captain Furrow and two of his men. The rebels came through the moun. talus, slippe(l by all the pickets that were on duty, got into camp, and took it by surprise. The rebels took with them twcuty-thrce horses and equipments. Prior to receiving the generals telegram of the 23d instant from Oakland, 1 had advised all my outposts of the capture, with instruc- tions to be on the alert. I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, N. VILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding, fe. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, ATew York City, September 24, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN C. ROBINSON, U. S. Army, Commanding, & c.: The major-general commanding the department directs me to ac- knowledge the receipt of your communication of the 22d instant re- porting your arrival at Albany aud asking for special orders, & c. I am (lirected to inform you that no special orders have beemi received from Washington as to your duties, which are those of a commander of a military district. The usual reports and returns will be forwarded by you to these headquarters. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I). T. VAN I3UREN, Colonel and iL~sistant Adjutant- General Page 170 170 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. NEW YORK, Septeutber 24, 1864. Maj. Gei1. JOHN A. 1)ix, Detroit, ]Jheh. All quiet here. JOhN J. PECK, ]tThjor- General. Hon. E. lxi. STANTON, TROY, N. Y., & ptemd)CP 21, 1(564. Secretary of War: Many thanks Thr your telegram announcing last evening another glorions victory of the gallant and distinguished General Sheridan. its effect is electric among the people. A few more such blows will accomplish the object which McClellan and the traitorous leaders o the Chicago convention say they seek, but I)y a different process~the surrender of the free States to Jeff. i)avis and his Government. JOHN E. WOOL, M~jor- General. CITY POINT, VA., September 25, 18642 p. in. lxlaj. Gemi. P. H. SHERIDAN, (Received ~3.55 i~. in.) Woodstoek, Ia.: Send either Torbert or Wilson to report to Sherman to command his cavalry. Report b~ telegraph which you send. Sherman is absolutely without a man who can command cavalry. 15. 5. GRANT, IiiCYtCU(( at- General. HARRISONBIRG, September 25. 156111.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, (Received 27th.) City Point, Va.: I pressed the enemy hard yesterday; at the same time pushed for- ward Colonel Powells cavalry through Timberville, a id struck the Valley pike in his rear. This latter movement stampeded him so badly that late last evening he gave up the Valley pike and struck oft toward Keezletown and Port Republic, leaving the entire Valley way free. All my infantry arrived at Harrisonbnrg at 4 p. m. to-day. Colonel Powells cavalry reached Mount Crawfordto-night. Torberts cavalry overtook me this evening. Its operations in the Luray Valley, on which I calculated so much, were an entire failure. They were held at Milford by two small brigades of Fitz Lees cavalry, and then fell back toward Front Royal until after they had learned of our success at Fishers Hill. They then proceeded up the valley again, encountering the enemys cavalry at Luray, capturing some 75 or SO men and horses; then joined me via New Market. Powells cavalry whipped a portion of the enemys cavalry near Harrisonburg yesterday; captured and bnrned nine wagons. I find at this place 450 wounded. I am now ninety-four miles from Martinsburg and 104 miles from Harper~s Ferry. I will send a column of cavalry to Staunton to-morrow morning, and will probably follow the enemy in the direction of Port R public wit Page 171 (IIAI~. LV. 171 CO1~RESPONDEN(1E, ETC.UNION. infantry. E the very hour l.wmgs me additional information of the demoraljzation of Earlys army. iteports late this evenilig say that he is movii~ toward Charlottesville. Other reports are that he is going to Waynesborough. The part that I expected the cavalry to accomplish at Fishers Hill was a complete failure. I have relieved Avereil from his cOInin[lfld. Jnstead of following the enemy when he was broken at Fishers Hill, so that there was not a cavalry organization left, he went into camp, and let me pursue the enemy for a distance of fifteen miles with infantry during the night. Early burned quite a number of wagons on his way up the Valley. lIe also abandoned two caissons on the Keezletown roa(I not far ~ronu this place. P. 1-1. SHEIUI)AN, ]Jiojor- General. Munny RmANCH, Mn., September 25, 1S64. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: Your dispatch directing Major Browns command to move to-day was not received until this a. no. Have sent him the order and cavalry to relieve his pickets. lie sends word he is getting his coin- inand together and issuing clothing just come. Will see he moves the earliest moment possible to-night or to-morrow morning. Resi )ectf nil y, JNO. M. WAITE, Major, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, New Market, September 25, 1864. Major-General WRIGHT, Corn maioding Sixth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you push on with your own and the Nineteenth Army Corps as fhr as llarrisonburg. You will have charge of the front until the arrival of General Sheridan. General Crooks command will follow you. Colonel Powell, with a division of cavalry, is on your right flank and was last night five miles from ilarrisonbnrg. He burnt nine of the enemys wagons. Very respectfully, & c., JAS. W. FOIISYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel a fl(i Chief of Stafr ITEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH Amziuv CORPS, Harrison burg, Va., & ptember 25, 1864. Major-General WEIGHT, Commanding Sixth Corps: GENERAL: I am very munch obliged to you -for the section of artillery you lent me yesterday. It is my duty as well as a great pleasure to express to you my sense of the very good conduct of Lieutenant Van Etten, commanding, who han led his battery very handsomely and effectively under a heavy fire in an advanced position. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. Ii. EMORY, Breret Major- General, Commanding Page 172 172 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. IIEAI)QUARThRS Al LiDl)LE Xl ILITARY DIVISiON, Yew ]Jfarket, iSepteml)er 725 IS AG!. Brevet Major-General. EMORY, Corn mandin4~ Nineteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: I am instructed by the ma.jor-general commanding to inform you that Major-General Wright will have charge of the front this morning until the arrival of General Sheridan. You will receive your instructions froni General Wright. Xery respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief 0/ A~tafJ. ORDERS.] HDQRS. CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 725 - 1864 9 p m. The cavalry will move to-morrow a. in. in the direction of Staunton. as follows: The First l)ix Mon Brigadier-(Seneral Merritt coilimali diii g, will in ( ~ve promptly at ~ 30 o clock. The Third I)vx i~ion Brigadier-General Wilson commanding, will fol- low the First i~ ision The trains Mill much with their respective divisions. i)ivision com- manders will keep thcir columns well closed and allow no straggling. Division commandus will see that the order regarding the carrying of carbines is rigi(lly enforced. By command ot Brevet Major-General Torbert: X~TM. RUSSELL, Jn., Assistant A (lJU taut- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DlVISION, [General J. II. N~ILSON: September 725, 18649.30 a. m. GENERAL: I am directed by the chicf of cavalry to say that he desii-es you to sen(l your dismounted men to Martinsburg with the train, and thence by railroad to Harpers Ferry. The senior officer Mill report with the men to the commandino- officer of Remount Camp, at Pleasant Valley, and all the officers going with the mcii will remain there on duty. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant A djatant- General. TIEADQITARTERS THIRD CAVALRY l)IVISION, September 725, 18618.720 a. in. Captain SIEBERT: Have rations, forage, and clothing issued at once. Feed well, and have everything got in readiness to move as soon a.s possible. Send staff officers to see that every care is given to animals. Send dis- mounted men an(l one officer to fifty men to the trains with arms, & c. Have the ammunition and other trains put into good condition by exchanging animals. Direct battery to RH up and take large allowance of amnmnition. have my light wag-on fixed. Scud sick and wounded to train. J. TI. WILSON, Brigadier- General Page 173 CHAP. LYl CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 173 ORDERS. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY l)IVISION, AS~eptember 25, 1861. Tue conimaiid will move through the gap to New Market at 6 a. in the following order: first, First Brigade second, Second l3rigade, with Peirces battery; third, ambulances, ammunition train. Gei eral Chapman will 1)ut oiie of his regiments Ill rear of the train to guard and to bring up all stragglers. Brigade commanders will call in their pickets an(I notify these head- quarters as soon as they are ready to move. By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: E. SIEBEI{T, IL~sb~ta at Adjutant-General. CIRCULAR.J JIEADQUARTERS TmRD. CAVALRY i)lvISloN, September 25, 1864. The comniand will unsaddle and unhariiess. Brigade and other independent coimnanders will draw five (lays rationS and two days forage from the train and see that the clothing which has arrived is promptly issued to their men. Horses will be thoroughly groomed and fed, and the command put in readiness to move again as SOOD as pos- sible and with the utmost dispatch. * * * * .- * * By command of Brigadier-General Wilson: L. SWBERT, Assistaat Adjutant- (lea eral. HARPERS FERRY, September 25, 18649.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Sheridan has advanced from Woodstock in pursuit of enemy; is re- i)orted to have struck them again at Mount Jackson, driving them from the field; will get full particulars to-night. A large train of our wounded coming in; also 20. captured guns and SO additional captured officers. Respectfully, JLNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WAR I)EPARTMENT, Wa8hington, ASepteutber 25, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: I would be glad to have your opinion on the points referred to in your telegram of last night in relation to the most secure line of sup- plies, & c. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 174 174 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CW. LY. Rapss FERRY, September 25,1864. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War, Wekingion, D. (1.: Sn: Availing myself of your permission I presentfcr your consider- ation my views upon the. proper depot to be established from which to supplythe command of Major-General Sheridan. Economy, in trans. portation and certainty in delivery are unquestionably controlling con- siderations. Martinsburg seems to be the selected depot. One serious objection to that point is to be found in the fact that there are not sut Acient sidin or aildings for the transaction of the Government busi- ness necessary to be done in the event of its adoption. In addition7 it is on the main track of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad with its im- mense business; there will be constant detentions arising from the number of trains daily passing over the road and from want of neces- sary switches and turnouts. Its accessibility and indefeilsibility render it an unsafe depot in case of disaster; past experience settles that On the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Martinsburg is unquestionably the best selection, but should the depot be on that road? I think not Winchester or Stephensons Depot should be the designated spot To make such selection requires the immediate relay- ing of the railroad track on the Winchesteri~oad to Stephensons Depot The distance is twentyone miles from the present laid track at Hall- town; to Winchester three miles farther. From both places the rock roads of the Valley can be used. There is the best of toad-beds, with but one bridge, as I am informed, requiring an eighty-fcot trestle. This track can be hid very rapidly, with a large force, at the rate of a mile and a half per day, so thst in twenty days Winchester can be reached by raiL The advantages: Harpers Ferry, with its ample store-houses, can be made the main depot; Stephensons or Winchester, the supply depot Trains can make the run in an hour and a half; in case of emergency in an hour; reduces hauling in wagons twenty-two miles~ saves twenty- four hours in time. Can this road be protected? Easily; a regiment at Charleston one at Summit Point, and one at Opequon trestle, the road is effectua5ly guarded. Occupying Ashbys Gap and Snickers Gap with a good regiment of infantry at each, a regiment of infantry holding Gregorys Gap Mid Hillsborough road2 wit a small force at Keyes Gap from Harpers Ferry garrison, distnbuting at these moun- tain passes such force as can be formed from the now useless cavalry, First Maryland and Loudoun Conty Rangers, armed with Spencer rifles, Mosby and London County guerrillas are effectually shut out of the Valley, and with their hiding-places thus occupied will soon dis- appear. The cost of constructing this road will soon be realized in the saving of animala, wagons, and freights, and in the time gained in transportation of an psto the front The troops on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad chn at once be withdrawn, for the new points and the actual military force now used in the. rear will require to be but little strengthened, if at alL These suggestions are based upon the idea that the upper Valley is to bethe theater of General Sheridans operations. 11 however, Lynch- burgisthe objective point, my opinion is that there should be no base in this valley. No army of such magnitude relying upon its rear for supplies can be maintained for a greater distance than 100 miles with. out either water or rhilroad transit General Sheridan has demoralized if not dispersed Earlys army; he might push forward to Staunton to complete that work. Returnin Page 175 ChAP LX~.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175 dowii the Valley to Luray Gap, where all necessary supplies can meet him, giving his meu three days rations in their haversacks, and carry- ing a suppiy train of ten days supplies of hard tack, sugar, coffi~e, and salt, driving fresh meat to redjice his supply traiu to the smallest nuin- ber, he could throw his army with facility upou Culpeper Court-House aud Gordonsville; in meantime, while his supplies last, the Orange and Alexandria Railroad can be repaired, and a large portion, if not the whole of it, put in running order. He then has a railroad to rely on to the desired point. That this railroad is a safe reliance, rendering the supplying of his army a certainty, look at Shermans campaign, his line of supply being a single railroad in the heart of a hostile coun- try, and yet held. To make a successful campaign against Lynchburg, capture an(l hold it, you must have this line of railroad there is no other. Occupying Gordonsville, Lynchbnrg and Richmond are alike threatened. Respectfully, JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPEILS FERRY ~A 5G4. Vi., ASej)tember 95 1 Major-General HALLECK, Chi(f 0! ASThff: (Received 12.15 p. in.) All troops forwarded here, except the Eighty-fourth New York and Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania (rationed for four days, with requisite transportation), are organized, and will leave for the front to-morrow morning. The Eighty-fourth New York is sent to General Neill, at 2lartinsburg, for that depot. The Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania will be stationed at Duffields, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. These are all the troops required for the railroad. JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. hEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY i)IvIsIoN, l3riga(lier-General STEVENSON. September 25 idGI Commanding, Harpers Ferry: The major-general commanding (lirects that you see that all men coining to the front are armed. Thereshould be arms at the Ferry on hanti for this purpose. Very respectfully, your obedient servant C. KINGSI3URY, JR., Assistant A~Jutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, & ptember 25, 1SGI. (3eneral T. H. NEILL, Miartinsburg: I have ordered Colonel Rodgers, with his regiment, to move from Charlestown to-morrow morning and report to yon. Also Colonel Conkhing, Eighty-fourth New York Volunteers, with First Independent Ohio Light Battery, six guns, to move from here at same time to report to you. Respectfully, JNO, I). STEVENSON, ]higadier- General Page 176 176 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CUIXIBERLAND, & ?ptcmber 25, 1864. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of & a~ Wa8hington As I can not communicate readily with General Crook, I (Icein it my duty to advise you of the status of affairs in West Virginia. A rebel force, estimated at 600 or 700 mounted men, came through Braxton County and occupied Weston and Buckhanuon yesterday. The small force at I3uckhannon fell back on Beverly. it was also reported last night that a force occupied the T3everly and Philippi l)ike, a few miles above the latter 1)lace. This inovenient would seem to indicate that it is the intention of the enenmy to attempt the capture of the force at Beverly, consisting of about 400 men of the Eighth 01 ~io Cavalry. I have concentrated all the force available in my comm~ nd for the 1)10- tection of Clarksbnrg and Grafton. At these points is a large amount of Government property, railroad equi~)ments, an(l inli)ortant bridges.. I cannot learn positively what force this is or who is in conunand, but it is believed to be a portion of General Echols. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet MfljOF- General. II EADQIJARTERS, Cun~ berland, lid., September 25, 1861. Brig. Gen. A. N. I)uFF~P, Commanding First Cacairy Division GENERAL: General Kelley directs inc to inelose you a copy of a tel- egram just received from department headquarters, and to inquire if you can send a force to Buckhannon and vicinity as intimated in the inclosed dispatch. Very res~)ectfully, your obedient servant C. A. FREEMAN, Lie aten ant an (1 Acting itssista n t Adjutant- General. hiclosnre.j IYIEADQUARTER8 I)EPART~ENT OF WEST VIRGiNiA, Wood.stoeA, 8eptenmber 21, 156i. Brevet Major-General KELLEY: The commanding general wishes, if the neighborhood of Bnekhannon is threatened by the enemy, that you request General IDuffi6 to send men to protect that region. He does not desire the militia to be called out. P. (5. bIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARRLSONBUEG, ~\A., September 26, 18647 p. m. (Received October 1.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: GENERAL: I see a paragraph going the rounds of the papers that the Nineteenth Army Corps was late in coming into the light at Win- chester. I was entirely unconscious of this until I saw it in the papers Page 177 CHAP LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 177 This statement was made by li. L. Shelley. I wish to say that it is incorrect, and that this correspondeiit was arrested by my order on a previous occasion for writing untruthful accounts. Very respectftuily, your obedient servant, P. Ii. SIIERII)AN, illiajor- 6~eneral, Commanding. (Copy to Major-Geiieral Emory.) CITY POINT, VA., September 26, 18646.30 p. m. Major-General SHERIDA~, (Received 9.20 i~. in.) Woodstoclc, Va.: Lee has sent iio troops from here since your first victory, except two regiments and one city battalion to Eynchburg. This I think is reli- at)lc. Your victories have created the greatest consternation. If you can ~inossib1y subsist your army to the front for a few days more, do it; and make a great eiThrt to destroy the roads about Charlottesville and the canat wherever your cavalry can reach it. U. S. CRAINT, Lieutenant- (Jeneral. SPECIAL ORDERS,? IzIDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISlON, No. 42. September 26, 1864. 1. Brig. Gen. G. A. Custer. 19. 5. Volui~teers, is hereby assigned to the command of the Second Cavalry i)ivisioii, Army of West Virginia. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. CAMP STONEMAN, ASeptember 26, 1864. Capt. L. L. BARNEY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor of making the following statement to you in regard to iMajor Fry and the party of ofliceis who left Camp Stoneman under his command with a detachment of cavalry for the front, September 15: We reached General Sheridans headquarters near Strasburg Sep- tellml)cr 21 and turned over our command. The major said to us that an escort was going on to Washington with the captured colors, amid we would return to Winchester amid there await its coming. Major Fry, Captain Brown, Lieutenants Stone, Gilman, Mclntire, and Pressey retinned to Winchester; I became separated fromn the party imt Wiii- chester, but saw the escort come into town, and reported to the com- nianding officer. lie requested me to look my party up, as lie said they were to start in half an hour. I tried to find them, but could not. I find, on gettiimg down to Harpers Ferry, that Major Fry, Capt. N. H. Browii, Lients. F. P. Stone, G. E. Gilman, and George It. Pressey, hear- ing the escort lia(l passe(1 tinoughi YXiII(llcster by the Martimisburg road, galloped omm (as they supposed) after them, and about five iiiile~ 12 R RYOL XLIII, PT I Page 178 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. 178 from Winchester were attacked by Mosbys men, fired upon, and all but Lieutenant Gilman killed or made prisoners; be escaped by return- ing to Winchester. It was just dark as they started from Winchester. In looking for the party in the morning, not knowing then what had become of them, although I heard a rumor i i Winchester th t a party of officers were captured by some of Mosbys men the night before, and also two sutler wagons destroyed, I found myself left by the escort, and came ou to Harpers Ferry alone, unmolested, an(l reported to Gem eral Stevenson. From Harpers Ferry I came with my horses to Camp Stonenman; found Lieutenant Gilmaii here. I have the honor to be, very respeetfimily, your obedient servant, IJOItATI () McINTIItE, Second Lieutenant First New hampshire Cavalry. [First indorscmeHt.] HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY 1)IVISIoN, Camp Stonem an, D. C., September 27, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to departmei it headquarters. From the report of this officer and Lieutenant Gilinans report pre- viously forwarded, it appears that Major Fry, Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Captain Brown, Lieutenants Stone and Pressey, First iNew Hampshire Cavalry, have been either killed or captured by guerrillas, in consequence of Major Fry disobeying orders and proceeding from Winchester toward Harpers Ferry ahead of the escort. W. GAMBLE, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Division. [Second iridorscnwnt.i HDQRS. DEPARTMENT oF WASHINGTON, 221) ARMY Coups, September 2R, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant-General of the Army in con- nection with report upon the same subject previously forwarded by Lieutenant Gihuan, First New Hampshire Cavalry. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Bm~kio, Va., September 26, 1864. Capt. J. SCHNEIDER, Commanding at Annandale CAPTAIN: As soon as an opportunity offers I wish you to send out at night a disinouiited party of a fow men, with a caretill officer, to the house of Mrs. l)ickens, living on the Raven sworth loa(l next Mrs. Fitz- hughs place, all(l have her house searched. She is reported as haviiig frequent visitors from Mosbys gang and KilIcIlel oes, and that they are entertained there. Do the same thing to the house of an Irishman who lives on and takes care of Mr. Morans l)lace; also the saute thing to the house of Mr. ~eaton, who lives on the Fairfax road. Take away the passes from all these people if they have them. 1 wish you to send at night parties to search for guerrillas and examine houses at any time when you think it should be (101w. Very respectfully, your obedient servant. II. M. LAZELLB, Colonel Si~ teenth New Yorh Volunteer Cavalry, Comdg. Brigade Page 179 ChAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 179 1-IE~D~VAR TERS iMIIDI)LE Xl ILITAH v I )IVISLoN, 191arrisoulnt ry, V((., iSeptember 26, 1864. Maj. (ien. II. G. WRIGHT, Commanding Sixth Army Corps GENERAL: The major-general cOmman(lilIg de sires that yoll send in, with as little delay as possible, the names of officers who have particu- larly distinguished them selves during the late engagements, and who are worthy and deserving of Promotion on that account. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant. C. KINGSBURY, Ju., Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Major-General Emory, commanding Nineteenth Army Corps; Major-General Crook, commanding Army of West Virginia, Eighth Corps.) [IDQRS. THIRD BRIG FIRST l)iv., SIXTH ARMY CoRPs, ~7 Lient. Col. J. W. FORSYTH, Va., September 26, 1864. Chief of Staff, Headquarters Middle Military Division: COLONEL: I have the honor to herewith forward what is supposed to be the signal flag formerly used at the headquarters of General Fitzhugh Lee, captured by the Forty-ninth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. The two commissioned officers who had charge of the detachment of cavalry, reported in my commnnication* of yesterday as having been attacked by the enemy, and seveu enlisted men, have retnrned. They were entirely cut off from their command, an(l pursued as far as Charles- town. There are now but twenty-four out of the detachment of forty- six that are unaccounted for. All the rebel officers who arrived from the front with the prisoners on Saturday were dispatched on the day following, under charge of the Eighty- seveath Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. Very respectfully, youi- obedici it serv~mut, 0. EI)WARI)S, Colonel, Comm andin q Post. HEADQUARTERS S1x~rH ARMY CORPS, l}revet Major.General EMORY, September 26, 1864. Corn man du~g Kin eteen th Corps GENERAL: My attention has been called to a letter i)llblishe(i in the lialtimore American and the New York ilerald, professing to give a description of the battle ot Opequon, fought on the 19th instant, iii which it was stated in effect that through some misconception of orders on your I)art your corps was delayed at least two hours in coining up, thereby rendering the successes of that day less complete than they must otherwise have been. As you were directed to report to nine with your cOnimand previous to crossing the Opequoii, and receive(l orders front me during the day, it becomes incinunbent on. me to contradict the statements alluded to. According- to the order of march you were to See Pait I, p. 18:3 Page 180 180 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. follow the artillery and trains of the Sixth Corps, and when the head of my column reached the pike it was met by yours, which was there halted, by my order, to permit my command to pass. That you moved up as rapidly as practicable after it had been decided to park the trains on the east side of the Opequon, instead of taking them across, I have had no reason to doubt; nor is there the slhditest doubt that your command the trains and moved forward leby passed thron~h the defi which the battle-ground was macbed as rapidly as infantry could be moved. As an act ofjustice to yourself and corps, I have brought th~ matter to the notice of the major-general commanding this army, and take pleasure in saying that lie will effectually correct the misstatement in his next dispatches to Lieutenant-General Grant. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, general, your obedient servant~ II. G. WIIIGI{T, 3hi~jor- General, (Jommauding~ IIEADQVAR TERS FIRST INFANTRY I )mvlsIoN, ARMY OF WEST ATIRCINIA Jiarrisonbury, V a., & ?pternber 2G, 18G4. Capt. P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General CAPTAIN: In obedience to your request of this date to send to your headquarters the names of such officers of my comm and who have particularly distinguished themselves during the late engagements, and who are worthy and deserving of I)romotion, I beg leave to report as follows: With very few exceptions all did nobly and splendidly, and all are deserving, but the following named parties were most consl)icuous for their zeal, daring, and ability: tirst, Col. T. lEVI. Harris, Tenth West Virginia Infantry, commanding Third Brigade; second, Col. George D. Wells, Thirty-fourth Massachusetts Vohni teers, comnmanding First Brigade; third, Lient. Col. Thomas F. Wildes, commanding One hundred and sixteenth Ohio Volunteers; fourth, Maj. I-I. W. Pratt, commanding Thirty- fourti Massachusetts Volunteers, severely wounded at Fishers Hill; fifth, First Lient. 0. P. Bougliner, adjutant Tenth West Virginia infantry, and acting assistant adjutant-general Third Brigade, wounded at Winchester; sixth, First Licut. George Macom- ber, Thirty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers, and acting assistant in- spector-general of my staff; seventh, First Lient. II. I-I. Horubrook, First West Virginia Infantry, and aide-dc-camp upon my staff. I Wolild like to enumerate many others, but too many names might frustrate the object aimed at in your request. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. THOBUIIK, (Jt-douel. HEADQUARTERS FIRST INFANTRY .I)IVISIoN, DEPARTMENT OF ~XEST VIRGINIA ilarrison burg, Va., ~S~eptem ber 26, 1864. Capt. P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I have the honor to report. that in the charge made by the Army of West Virginia on Fishers Hill on the 924 instant, two battle Page 181 can. Lit) OOflE81OlbflOk, k?O.--4INION. 181 flags were captured by men iii this division: one by Private John Creed, Compan3D, Twent -third Illinois Veteran Volunteers~ one by Private George (L Moore, Company D, Eleven~ West Virginia Volunteers. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. THOBURN, Clolouci, (Jossmedbg. HnDQUAnnES Snoon INFANTRY DIVISION, fln oi WEST VYaGnia, Year Harrisosburg, Va.., September 26,1864. Capt P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjnt.ant-Gesserai: CAPTMN: I have the honor to transmit the names of the following officers who have particularir distinguished themselves during the late en men~ and who are m my opinion worthy of promotion, viz: Co Hiram F. Devol, Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry; Lient. CoL B. F. Coates, Ninety-first Regiment Ohio Volun- teer Infantry; Lient. CoL James K. Comly Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry; fleut. & George W. Taggart, Fourteenth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry; Lient. CoL William H. Enochs, Fifth Regiment West Virginia VolunteerInfantry; Maj. B. II. Skinner, Ninth Reqiment West Virginia Volunteer Infan- try; MaJ. Lemuel Z. Cadot2 Ninety-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer In- fantry; Capt. Russell Hastinqs, Twenty-third Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry; Capt. William S. Wilson, Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry; Capt. Samuel Davis, Ninth Regiment West Vir- gnia Volunteer Infantry; Capt. Milton Stewart, Thirteenth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry; Capt. Harry Thomppson, Twenty- third Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry- First Licut. JohuW. Overtur4 NineV-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer infantry; First Lieut. Carey B. Bayshp, Ninth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry; Second Lieut. Lyman H. McBride, Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry; Second Lieut. Robert Laughlin, Ninth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry. The above-named officers have all discharged their duty during the late engagements with signal ability alid courage. AU the field officers named were in command of regiments, except the first two, who were in command of brigades in the last general engagement. Capt. Samuel Davis, Ninth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry commanded the Thirty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry at Fishers Hill, and led it with conspicuous courage through- out the fight. Second Lieut. Lyman H. McBride, Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, at Winchester mounted a rebel fortifica- don alone and captured arebel lieutenant-colonel and forty-twoprivates. Second Lient. Robert Laughlin, Ninth Regiment West Virginia Vol- unteer Infantry, captured a battle-flag at Winchester. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant Colonel, Cosmaesdd.sg. AnrdM a Medal of Honor Page 182 18:2 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Ml)., ANI) PA. [CITkP. LV. lILA 1)QVAI~TEES Xl IDI)LE M IIATARY 1 )i VlSI ( AS(7)temh ZIG, lSb4. CoM~IANDIN~ GENERAL CAVALRY: GENERAL: The major-general commanding (lesires that you 5e11(1 in with as little delay as l)ossible the names of officers who have I)artidu- larly distinguished themselves during the late eiigagements, atiol who are worthy and deserving of promotioti on that account. I am, general, very reS~)ecttuhly, your obedieiit servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., A 55~5f(( itt AdjUtant- General. HEADQUARTERS Mi D1)l~E MILITARY 1}IVI SlON, HUrlb~9llb$fV(f, I a.. 5f7)tOflbCl 2G, 18615 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. MERRITT. Commanding First Cavalry i)irision GENERAL: The ni nj or- geii eral commal idin g directs that you hold fast on this side of the river at Port .t{epubli uiitil further orders. Gain all the information of the enemys movements that you can. In the morning the general desires that you send out a force to Browns Gap to develop the enemys force that may be at that point, and ascer- tain whether the enemy has moved; if so, where to. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, I1ieiIt(?flant- Colonel and Chief of Stati. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, September 26, 18614 p. m. Brigadier-General MERRITT: SIR: 1 have my command just opposite Browns Gap. Am forming my division with a view to making an attack to compel the euemy to develop his force. I regret that I cannot move my command to Port Republic this evening, as you request. I have already disregarded Major-General Torberts orders in returning to this point, as I was under orders to move toward Staunton, and had notified him that I was on the road to that point. Since my return here I have learned that Generals Torbert and Custer are moving up the pike to Staunton, expecting to meet me there. The supposed necessities of the case alone induced my return. 1 am, general, yours, respectfully, W. H. POWELL, Colonel, Commnan ding Division. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, September 26, 1~64~.3O ]). m. Brig. Gen. W. MERR1TT, Commanding Cavalry D~vision SIR: I have the honor to report having developed tile enemys force find it very strong on uiy immediate front. Drove him into his fortifica- tious, and fimid his works strong. his force is composed of infantry Page 183 C~HAP. LV. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 183 strenotli as to cavalry, artillery, and of such render it ilupracti (able to make further attack this evening. Cavalry alone cannot ~peratc successfully against lam. 1 will remain here to-night. V cry respectfully, NV. II. POWELL, Colon H. Corn inca 4~iiy Ihri~aon. HAuPEns FERRY, VA., & ~c1)tC)fllWF 26, i5G4. Iloit. F. M. STANTON: Sheridan at last accounts had wished on to Mount Jackson. The tear ouard of the rebels attelnpte(l a stan(l at Mount Jackson but were readily driveti. They were trying to make a stand at Hoods [iL{udesI Hill. three miles beyond Mount Jackson, but the general thought it would not be formidable. tt seems that Sheridan captured 19 pieces of artillery at Fishers Hillthat nulnl)er beiiig just reported as arrived by the officer in cbarge. The ituniber of l)risollers I cannot definitely ascertain. Some 1.300 had arrived at Winchester. Twelve hundred wounded arrived Pont front last night, making total number received here 2,19t. A train of 400 wagons has arrived for supplies. I shall settd out to-morrow 500 wagons for froitt with subsistence stores and forage. I have sent to Winchester 102 wagons an(i 30 ambulances with tedica I stores, in clndimtg 3,( )0() bhn ikets from quartermasters stores, all of which ame in Wiiichester. I get ito definite information of Torbert. It was known at headquarters that lie had eacountered Kersliaws divis- ion on its return to Early, but nothing was known of the result. Respectfully, .JNO. I). STEVENSON, Briqadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., & plernber 26, h%4iO.20 p. rn. lion. F. N. STANTON, AVcret((ri/ o/ lVar Geiteral (ihiapnt an, just arrived from front, reports that General Slwridan left New Mark~t yesterday morning (Sunday); that advance of ariiiy was live miles ahead, ~)nshing for Ilarrisonburg with utmost dispatch, aitd had been joined by Torberts cavalry through Luray (lap. Torbert encountered the main body of rebel cavalry between Front Royal and Euray Court-House, the enemy retiring up Luray Valley, losing some 72 ptisoners; Torbert going tltrough gap and joining Sheridan at New Market, pushing imninediately forward to rake the advaitee of the army. To-itight Slteridan is undoubtedly at Ilarrisonburg. The enemy were still in the utntost disorder, having otily mmmc pieces of artillery as they passed through New Market. lit their trains they have 1,700 wounded from the Wineltester fight. Our mcmi are in best of spirits. They say that Slteridan is the bearer of ieace I)ropositioiis to Jeff. Davis. General hapman rode on horse- back ninety ntiles. His wound is not very serious. I scud to army in the mortiing a waoomm train of 500 wagons with stipplies. Respectfully, JNO. B. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 184 184 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. IIARPETIS FERRY, September 26, 1864. (Received 1.48 J). in.) CoT. E. D. TOWNSEND, A8sistant Adjutant- General: General Orders, No. 251, have forced me to dissolve all my general courts-martial at this post. Upon taking cornman(l I found the guard- house tilled with prisoners; some of them confiuiecl for six mouths and longer without trial. I want to cure this manifest evil with a command of12,0(iO men. Because itis a mixe(1 comman(l 811(1 declared a district, I can do nothing until Major-General Crook, in the field, not accessible shall declare my command a separate brigade. Cannot this order by sl)ecial order be suspended in this (listrict for thirty (lays ~ In that time I shall clean out the prison. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Briqadjer- General. [First indorsement.] ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFIcE, September 27, 1864. Respectfully referred to tl ie ~In dge-Ad vocate- General. B. D. TOWNSEND, A8sistan t Adjutant- General. [Second indoi-semeit.] BUREAU OF MILITARY JUSTICE A~eptember 28, 1(S64. Respectfully returned. As General Orders, No. 252, did not legalize the 1)ractice which to some extent had obtained of organizing general courts-martial where tile command was a mixed one and not declared a separate brigade, but, on the contrary, announced by implication that such practice was unwarranted and should be discontinued, it does not appear that any- thing in the direction of General Stevensons wishes would l)e gained by a suspension of the order. His authority, after such suspension, to convene a general court iii the absence of an order cojistitutino his b command a separate brigade would have no more legal foundation than it has at present. J. HOLT, Judqe-Adioeate- General. BALT LM ORE, Septem ber 26, 1864. (Received 11.50 p. in.) Brigadier-General STEVENSON, JL(tiper~ Ten y: Owing to the manifestations of rel)cl sympathy by citizens here for prisoners arriving, 1 have ordered that lijIOll arrival they be conducted at once to Fort Mellenry, there to reinaiu until transportation can be furnished to proceed, so as to avoid the Ileople. LEW. WALLACE, ]l~Lajor- General of Volunteers Page 185 CHAP. Lv.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 185 CIM1;ERLAM), & 1)tember 26, 1864. Governor B 0 REMAN, Wheeling: General Crook does not approve of calling out the militia. You will therefore please caii~e the Thi~ce recently calle(l for by me to repel the threatened invasion of Ipshur and neighboring counties to be dis- banded. B. F. KELLEY, Breret Major- General. CLARKSBUEG, XV. VA., ASeptember 26, 1864. (Received 7.30 p. in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: The rebels are in Weston force unknown. A bogus operator is at work on the hue. N. WILKINSON. Colone~. CLARKSBURCt, XV. VA., September 26, 1864. (II cceived 8.15 p. in.) Major-General KELLEY: I understand that the Seventeenth Virginia, or some other troops, started from Wheeling to-day. Please direct them here temporarily. The bogus operator says the rebels under Colonel 1)uke, 8,000 cavalry and a large regiment of infantry, are within four miles of Weston, XV. Va. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CUMBERLAND, September 26, 18648 .1 5 p. rn. Colonel WILKINSON, Clerks bury: Concentrate all the force you can at Clarksburg at once. Have you any militia? Have you heard from Buckhannon? 13. F. KELLEY, Drevet Major- General. CLARK5BURG, Septem ber 26, 1864. Major-General KELLEY: I cannot concentrate much; will have over 200 of the Sixth by morning. If the Seventeenth can be starte(l to-night from Wheeling, it would be the best we could do. The militia are all disbanded. Am arming some of the citizens. No communication with Buckhannon. N WILKiNSON, Colonel. CLAItKSTuLTRG XV , 864. VA.. September ~6 1 (Received 8.30 p. in.) Major-General KELLEY: The telegraph line to Buckhannou ceased to work at 7.15 this even- ing. N. WILKiNSON, Colonel Page 186 186 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. L~. CEARKSBUR G~ ASepternber 26, 1864. (Received 9.40 p. 111.) General B. F. KELLEY: A citizen arrived from \~estoii. The rebel fbrce he re})reselLts as (300, mounted. 1 have 1 totli jug yet hi )m direeti 01 of Roeklun 1 non. Tb ey elitered XX eston al)out 4.30. N. WILKINSON, (oion~ CLARKSBURG. NV. VA., AVej)tem her 26, JSGi. COMMANDING OFvn F~R, Parl~-e#sb wry: The rebels. foree nitkiiowii, took Weston this evening. Re on the alert. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CITY POINT, XA., September 27, 186111 a. m. (Received 3 p. in.) Major-General JIALLECK, IVaslungton, P. C.: From IRicimond papers of yesterday I gather that firing was heard at Staunton on Sunday mornuig. People were leaviuug Staunton in great alarm. No troops bave passed through Ilicinnond to re-enforce Early. All that have left, so faras can be learned, are two regiments and a city battalion for Lyncbbnrg. I shall make a break here on the 29th. V. S. GRANT, Lieu tenant- & en era 1. CITY POINT, VA., September 27. 1/6411.30 a. m. (Received p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Uaslt inyton: I have said to more on the subject of o~)e1ting railroad comnmuinca- whilst he is moVino it is hai d to say where tion with Sheridan, because, he will want it. If General Angur can protect the road to the Rappa- hannock, however, I think it will be advisable to open the road that far. IT. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, P. C., ~Sqitember 27, 18641 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The six Michigan regiments will not make three. A consolidation was ordered a week ago, but it is not yet completed, the fragments being scattered over the State. Sherman telegraphs urging that all new troops from the West be sent to protect his communications. These regiments, however, will by your orders be sent to City Point. No reply has been received front you in regard to repair of railroads. H. W. JIALLECK, ]Iliajor- General and Chief of Staff Page 187 CHAP. IA.} CORRESPON1)ENCE, ETC.UNION. 187 CiTY POliNT, VA., ASeptember 27, 18646 p. m. (Iteceived 10 p. ii.) \I aj )r-(IeH eral 11 ALLECK, lVashutgtou, D. (A: I think the road toward Sheridan should be 1)nt in order as far as protection can be furnished for it. Waslinigton, being protected as much by troops sent out on the road south as if the same troops were in the city, can be stripped considerably lower than would he justifi- able to scud the troops elsewhere. After reaching Manassas Junction 1 would like Sheridan to decide which road should be opened. if he moves, as I expected him, to Charlottesville, the road to Culpeper would be the one to repair. V. S. GRANT, Licutenan t- General. Cvrx- l~o1NT, VA.. September 27, 186-16.30 p. iii. (Heceived 10 p. 111.) Major-General IIALLECK, lVwTh inyton, I). (J.: Now that Sheridan has pushed so far up the Valley, General Augur should seud, if it is possible, a force of cavalry aud infantry out by Cul- peper, with scouts as far to the front as they can go, to watch if any troops move north on the east side of the Blue Ridge to get in upon Sheridans rear. V. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- Gen e.i-a 1. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, ii). (1., September 27, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Commanding AY)1U(?S oJ the tftitC(i St((tCS, Uit1~ POint~ Va.: We wait military protection to open the Manassas Gal) Railroad. Reports of time neededsay three days to Piedmont, seven days to Front Royal, lourteen days to Strasburg. The cost of wagon trains from Harpers Ferry or Martinsburg to Strasbnrg will be very heavy, and it is very difficult to supply hay and grain for the animals. They con- sume in the rear what the Manassas Gap Railroad would enable us to deliver near to the front. If the military movements needed to cover the road can be made it will be very advantageous to open this road at once. Can you order dispositions to make this safe and practicable~ Respectfully, ~ C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General, Brevet Major- General. CITY POINT, VA., September 27, 18646 p. m. (Received 10 p. in.) Maj. Gen. MI. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General, Washington: I have given no orders until to-day about repairing railroads, because I did not know whether Sheridan would have the road to Culpeper or the one to Strasburg opened. General Auour and other departments in the Middle Division will have to furnish the troops to guard the road when open. IT. S. GRANT, Lienten ant- General Page 188 188 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CIRCULAR.] IIEAI)QUALTERS MIDDLE MiLITARY I)rvlsloN, Harrisonbury, September 27, 1864. Corps commanders will have their commands in readiness to march at 5 oclock to-morrow, September 28, 1864. Further instructions will be sent in the mormug. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chie/~ 0/ Staff WASHINGTON September 27, 1864. Major.General AUGUR: Please furnish me to-morrow morning- an abstract of the troops avail- able for the defense of the railroads to Manassas Gap and the Ilappa- hannock, based on the su~)positio1L of leaving in the works north of the Potomac simply a guard. ii. XV. HALLECK, ]Iia~or- General and Chief of Star. ALEXANDRIA, September 27, 1864. (Received 7.55 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that last night I sent a small detachment toward Dranesyille to look after some guerrillas said to be in that neighborhood. The detachment returne(1 to-day, capturing three guerrillas. The patrols report all quiet to-day. II. II. WELLS, Lieutenant- Colonel an (1 I~rorost-Marsha,l- General. ORDERS.] IIEADQITARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, September 27, 1864. This corps will be in readiness to march at 5 oclock to-morrow a. in., iu accordance with orders from headquarters Middle Military Division. i~urther instructions will be sent in the mornino-. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Major and Aetinq Assistant A djula ut- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY l)IvIsIoN, September 27, 1864. Brevet Major-General Ein~IORY, Corn ma ndiny ~ATineteen th Corps: GENERAL: The major-o-eneral commanding directs that you detail one regiment as a guard for the train going to Winchester to-morrow morning. He desires that the commanding officer report here in per- son to-night. Very respectfully, your obe(lieut servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 189 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 189 CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. 1)ETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, September 27, 1864. This command will be ready to move at 5 a. in. to-morrow. By order of Brevet Major-General Emory: DUNCAN S. WALKER, itssistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 27, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Both of my last courier parties were attacked by rebel cavalry; dis- l)ersed part of them, capturing time first party at Strasburg, the second at a point between Charlestown and Bnnker lull. Message No. 31 was sent by both parties, and both have hilled. I shall try another duplicate to-night. The country between this and Sheridan yesterday and to-day seemed to be alive with l)arties of rebel guerrillas and cay- airy. Last night they attacked ambulances, w-ith escort of seventeen mcii, between this aini Charlestow-n; severely wounded surgeon of Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry. I doubt if we shall be able to get any disl)atches through without sending much larger body of cavalry than I can get hold of. I have but small force for such duty, and it is badly worn down. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September 27, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Reports from wagon-train of 500 wagons en route for front received. All right two miles beyond Charlestown; ought to make Bunker lull to-night. I complaiu of the manner in which stragglers, recruits, comi- valescents, & c., are semit forward from Caump Distribution. l~iight hun- dred men were sent last night in charge of one officer. The consequence is there is short on arrival 132 mcii. The object of officers in charge of camps of distribution seems to be to get rid of men in as large numbers as possible. They ari-ive here generally in the miight and without suffi- cient officers to take care of them. All who wish to get away. It is heyday for bounty;jumpers, and unless remedied all rascals who are recruited and sent here will escape. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURG, W. VA., September 27, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Shmeridaiu was at Harrisonburg on the 25th at 4 a. in. Our cavalry reported to be six miles in advance. A train has just arrived here with 7,000 stammd of captured arms amid ten pieces of artillery and five cais- soims. Eighty prisoners came with the train. TIJOS. II. NULL, Brigadier- General Page 190 190 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Ml)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. MARTINSI3URG, 8eptember 2%, 1861. (Received 6.25 p. in.) Maj. R. WILLIAMS, Assi~ta Ut A ~(j utant- General: Please send me a good assistant adjutant-general. I )epot for Sheri- dans army is here. I am in command. THOS. II. NEILL, Briqadier- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ( HDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIRG1NIA, No. 180. 1Ia~rGonbarg, ITa., 8eptember 27, 1861. 1. Brig. Gem J. A. J. Liglitburn, IT. S. Volunteers, having reported at these headquarters in obedience to orders from the headquarters of the Armies of the United States, will proceed to Harpers Ferry, MT. Va., and there await further orders. * * * * * * * By order of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. 6. BIER, Ass istant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY I)IV1SION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST ViRGINIA, Cumberia n d, ltd., 8eptember 27,1864. MaJ. CHARLES G. OTIS, Comm (()td ing Twenty-first Yew York Ca rairy: SIR: You will please order from your regiment one squadron of mcii, mounted and equipped, to go to Clarksburg, M~. Va. This squadron will include, if l)ossible, all the men mounted, armed, and equipped in your comnlnan(i. The men will be provided with two days rations and sixty rouuds of ammunition per man (includiag pistol and carbine) and one days forage for horses. They will be in readiness to move immedi- ately, and will take the cars for Clarksburg, W. Va. Upon arriving at that point the. commanding officer of time detachment will report for instructions to Colonel Wilkinson, commanding at that place. The squadron commander will immediately report to these headquarters for further instructions. By command of Col. Joint F. Wytikoop, comnitiatiding First Cavalry Division of West Virginia: E. W. CLARK, Jn., Gupta in and Assistant Adjutant- General. C UMBERLAND, A~eptem her 27, 186110 p. in. Governor BOREMAN, Wheeling: Colonel Wilkinsoim reports Weston 011(1 Buckhanion both in the pos- session of the rebels, and a force of 1,500 near Philippi. I have stopped the Seveimteenth at Grafton, but the colonel advises me he left Wheel- ing without ammunition. Will sen(l some bx- inorniu~ train. I have sent all time force I can raise, which is very srnaH, being left with this extended command almost withont troops. I fear for the worst re- sults. 8. 1. K HA ~EY 1becet ]VF(QOr- General Page 191 CLIA!-. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 191 N\HEELJNG, W. VA., September 27, 1864. (Received 1.20 p. in.) How E. M. STANTON: Colonel Wilkinson, at Clarksburg, reports a considerable force of rebels at Weston, twenty-three miles from the railroad. He has no sufticielit force to protect Government stores at Clarksburg or to pro- tect the railroad. The Seventeenth Regiment, of new recruits, left here this morning to join General Crook. Cannot they be ordered to report to Colonel Wilki~ison temporarily for duty? They have not yet reached Grafton. Please answer immediately. A. I. B()REMAN, Governor. \VASHIN~TON, 1). C., Septeniber 27, 1864. Governor BOREMAN, Wheeliny: General Kelley has been authorized to stop the Seventeenth iRegi- inent if he deems it necessary for the security of Clarksburg. 11. W IIALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff WAsHINGTON, September 27, 1864. (Received 4 m in.) Brigadier-General KELLEY: You can stop the Seventeenth Regiment if you deem it necessary for the security of Clarksburg. I-I. W. IIALLECK, Chief of Staff. CUMBERLAND, September 27, 1864. Capt. P. 0. 13mm Aisistant A~jntant-Genera.i: Colonel Wilkinson reports that Weston, Lewis County, was occupied yesterday evening by a nionnted rebel force of 600 men, arid that the telegraph to Buckhannon ceased to work about the same time. On the morning of the 25th instant the l)i(ket of twenty-live men of the Eighth ohio Volunteer Cavalry at the Burnt House, iii L~ andolph County, were surl)rised and captured with their horses, arms, and equipments. I have re(hllested (olonel Wynkoop, commandino General I)ufli& s divis- ion, to send what force lie has armed and inouute(1 to Clarksbnrg, which, however, is only about 100 men I have also requested the Governor to sen(l all of the Seventeenth West Virginia Infantry now at Wheeling who are arnied and equipl)ed to the assistance of Colonel Wilkinson. II. 1. KELLEY, lb-c ret Major- General. I IEAI)QUARTERS, Cumberland, September 27, 1564. Col. J. B. WYNKOOP, Commandiny Cavalry i)irision COLONEL: The general coinman(Iing requests that yon or(ler the armed an(l e( lliil)i)e(l j)ortion of your command to pr )cee(l with out dela Page 192 192 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. to Clarksburg, W. Va., and report to Col. N. Wilkinson, Sixth West Virginia Infantry, commall(liQg. Transportation will be in readiness for the detachment. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. FREEMAN, Lieutenant and A. eting Assistant A ~jntant- General. CUMBEIRLAND, ~eptem bee 27, IdGI. COMMANDING OFFICER 17Th WEST VIRGINIA INFANTRY: Hold your command at Grafton until the Governor hears from Wash- ington. 13. F. KELLEY, Brevet Aliajor- General. CUMBERLAND, September 27, JSGI4.30 p. m. COMMANDING OFFICER 17TH WEST VIRGINiA 1NFANTRY, Urn [ton: Just receive(l a telegram from General Halleck (lirecting me to stop the Seventeenth at Grafton. You will therefore remahi in the cars and be ready to move to any point you may be required. Please inform me how many men you have, what you are armed with, and how much ammunition you have. 13. F. KELLEY~ Brevet Major- General. CLARKSBURG, September 27, 18G4. (Received 10.20 a. in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: All right at 8.30 this morning. Nothing further heard from Westomi; wire works to Beverly, but calls on Buckhannon are not responded to. Started an operator toward Buckhan non last night at 11 oclock; have not heard from him. N. WiLKINSON, Colonel. CLARKSBURG, September 27, 1-~G4. (Received 10.20 a. in.) Brevet Major- General KELLEY: 9.40 a. m. rebels entered Buckhannon, so says operator there, but we have suspicions that the rebel operator has beeii working from there all the morning. The wires are down again. N. WiLKINSON. CLTMBERLAND, September 27, 18G112 m. Colonel WILKINSON, C iarksbnry: A section of Battery I~, First Illinois Artillery, has been ordered to proceed from New Creek to Clarksbnrg and report to you without delay. A squadron of cavalry will also proceed from here this p. m. to report to you. B. F. KELLEY, Bee ret JLQor- General Page 193 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 193 CLARKSBURG, September 27, 1 8GL (Received 2.30 p. in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: The Seventeenth left Wheeling this morning for Martinsburg, by order of Secretary of War. Governor I3oreman has telegraphed Sec- retary of War to have it report to inc. Please add yonr request also. Fighting now at Buckhannon. N. WILKINSON. CLARIiSBUIIG, September 27, 1861. (Received 2.45 ~ In.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: Governor Boreman asks me, if consistent with duty, to stop the Seventeenth at Grafton, tern porarily. Will you please do this. N. WILKINSON Colonel. Colonel ~TILKINSON, CUMBERLAND, September 27, 1864. Clerks burg I have ordered the Seventeenth to be held at Grafton nritil further developments, or orders from Washington. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. Colonel WILKINSON, CUMBERLAND, September 27, 1864. Clarksb erg: Colonel McDonald, of the Seventeenth, is at Grafton with 400 men, aimed with Springfield rifled muskets, but without ammunition. Have you any ammunition to sparc, caliber .58. If nQt, I will send by morn- ing train from New Creek. Make every prc~aration necessary to defend the place to the last. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CLARKSBURU, September.?7,1864. (Received 4 p. in.) Brevet M~jor.General KELLEY: It is believed that a rcbcl force still occupies Weston, and Buckhan- non is in possession of another force of the enemy. The Seventeenth Infantry should, if possible, be sent here immediately, for if I am attacked here it will be before the artillery and cavalry from the east can arrive. The militia have not responded to the call. None are here. N. WILKiNSON, Colonel. 13 II UVOL XLIII, PT I Page 194 194 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANI) PA. [CHAP. LV. CLAnKSBunG, W VA., Scptc~u~bci 2,] tG1. (Received 8 ~ in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: A soldier arrived at Webster about 6 oclock this evening from Bev- erly; has reports that the enemy were within three miles of Philippi. This is confirmed by a citizen who arrived later. N. WtLKINSON, Coh~ncl. CLARKSBUIIG, W. \A., & ptCfl/bCP 2,, 1(561. (Received 8.20 p. ur.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: Youno Rowe, the operator at Weston, escaped the rel)cls and left there this morning at 10 oclock. The rebels, about 5,000 strong, under Echols, left there early this morning for Buckliantion; they boasted that there were 4,000 of rel)els l)esides themselves, and that they intended to stop things and take Clarksbarg certain. N. WILKINSON, (Jo 10/K. CLARKSBVRG, W. VA., [AS~eptember 27-,] 1864. (Received 8.40 p. in.) Brevet Maj or- General KELLEY: Mr. Arbuckle, late captain Fourth West Virgin ia C~ vairy, has arrived from Weston, xx-here he was cinring the enemys occul)atioIl. lIe says the forces were entire strangers, commanded by C o~ ouci Wilkes [Witcher], and 800 strong; were mounted and heavily armed. They represented that lEchols and Johnson would reach vY eston to-day. His report other- wise agrees with young Rowe as to reported rebel forces being in this county. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CLARKSBUPLG, W. VA., & ptember 27,] 18(14. (Received 8.45 p. in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: Captain Halls scouts report large body of rebels at Crab Bottoni. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. JLARI{8IIUR(~, W. VA., [September 27,] i~sbi. (Received 8.48 ~ in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: I have ordered a supply of ainumnition to be delivered to McDonald. Showalter is here. Will direct McI)onald to defend Grafton. N. WILKINSON, Colonel Page 195 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195 tUMI3ERLAND, September 27, i& 41O p. m. Colonel MCDONALD, 6~rqjton: Colonel Wilkinson informs me he will furnish you with ammunition. Put one of your companies in the block-house and defend the place to the last, if attacked. 13. F. KELLEY, Brevet iIJiajor- General. CLARK5BURG, W. VA., ASeptember 27, 1864. I3ri gadier-General BUNKER, Fairm.out. (oucentrate your men at Rowlesburg an(l (irafton fist as })QssiI)IO, armed and equipped. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. ROWLESI1UR& ~. XV. VA., [September 27,] iWI. (Received (1.30 j). in.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: Mv scouts iii from Harbour County. No rebel torce there. WM. hALL, Captwi)m. (1u3JuEIn~ANn, Sei)t()Uber 27. 1~6iI1..j() a. mu. Captaii -~HEETS, New (meek: Send a sqlla(l of 100 men in comnioud of a relial)le oflicer, with three (lays ratioiis, on a scout via Knobly road, thence to Frankfort, Spring- field, Slanes Cross-Roads, 13 loomery Gap, and thence to Paw Paw, from which point he will report to me for firther or(lers, using the telegraph at No. 12 for this l)url)ose. Rations and forage will be sent to Paw Paw if required on their arrival there. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CtTMBERLAND, September 27, 1864. Capt. DANIEL SHEETS, Commanding New Creek, W. Va. The general commanding directs you to send without delay one sec- tion of Battery L, First Illinois Light Artillery, to report to Colonel Wilkinson, at Clarksburg, W. Va. See the railroad agent and have transportation provided at once. C. A. FREEMAN, Lieatemta mit (tn(l Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 196 196 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rOHAP. LV. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ ThQIis. MIDDLE DEPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 241. 5 Baltimore, September 27, 1864. * * * * * 6. Col. Benjamin F. Peach, Eighth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, will proceed with his regimental staff to Camp Bradford, the general rendezvous for Maryland and Delaware, and assume command of the rendezvous and the companies of his rPgiment stationed there. This order subject to the approval of the Adjutant-General U. S. Army. * * * *- * * * By command of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, Washington September 27, 1864. Maj. T. L. CASEY, Corps of Engineers, Portland, life. Proceed without delay to Sandusky, Ohio, and, with Captain Tardy, design defenses for that locality. Special instructions have been sent to the post-office at Sandusky, to your address, by mail. RICh). 1)ELAFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Engineers. CITY PO1NT, VA., September 28, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The Richmond Whig of this morning contains the following: CHARLOTTESVILLE, September 28, 1864. The fight near Port Republic on Monday was art engagement between our cavalry and that of the enemy. They caine over the river, and were drivea l)ack three miles by our cavalry to and across the river. The enemys c~va1ry entered Staunton about 8 p. m. on Monday. A force appeared at Waynesborough about 9 oclock this morn- ing, and then went back about one mile from town. No (lamage has been done up to 4 p. in. Tbe smoke seen ill(licates that they are burning the railroad track be- tn-ecu Christians Creek and Staunton. There has been no serious fighting up to 4 oclock this evening. This dispatch should probably have been dated the 27th, but I give it as given in the Richmond paper. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, ii). C., September 28, 1864. Major-General SHERIDAN, Harpers Perry: General Grant ~telegraphs that he expects you will be able to push forward to Staunton or Charlottesville. In that case you can best be supplied by the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, through Culpeper. If not, the railroad to Front Royal should be repaired. The Orange and Alexandria Railroad can be repaired as far as the Rapidan in much the shortest time. Please say which road you prefer. U. W. JIALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 197 CHAP. IS.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 197 WASHINGTON, 1). C., September 28, 1864. Major-General MEIGS, Qnartermaster- General: General Augur has been directed to send out troops to guard the railroad to the Rappahannock River. Measures will be immediately taken to repair the road to that point. The l)ridge over the liappa- haunock will, however, not be repaired till further orders. ii. W. HALLECK Major- General and Chief of Staff. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIViSION, Harrisombury, Va., September 28, 1864. The Sixth and Nineteenth Army Corps will move to-morrow morning at 5 oclock to Mount Crawford, and in the following order: The Sixth Corps moving on the left of the Staunton pike, the Nineteenth Corps on the right of the 1)ike, and the trains on the pike. The Sixth Corps train will move iii advance. The corps will move nuder the direction of Major-General Wright. By command of Major-( ieneral Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief oJ Staff. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 28, 1864. Brigadier-General IDE RUSSY, Commanding Dtets~on GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that eighteen companies of unattached heavy artillery have been relieved from duty in Briga- dier-General Hardins division and directed to report to you. On their arrival the inajoi--general commanding directs that you relieve the Two hundred and twelfth Pennsylvania Volunteers (Sixth Heavy Artillery), and direct it to report for duty to Brig. Gen. John P. Slough, Military Governor of Alexandria. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjatant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 28, 1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN P. SLOUGH, Military Go cern or of Alexandria: GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to inform you that two reo-ilnents, the Two hundred an(l fourth and Two hundred and twelfth Pennsylvania Volunteers (Fifth and Sixth heavy Artillery), have been this day directed to report for duty to you. On their arrival you will establish them on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad to Bull Run bridge as will best in your Ju(igment subserve the purpose of covering that road and protecting the working parties which ma Page 198 198 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANI) PA. [CHiP. LV. be placed on it. You will understand that the jurisdiction of your dis- trict is extended to Bull Nun, including the railroad, its l)uildiugs, & c., and immediate vicinity on either side. Very respectfully, general, your most obedient servant, J. II. TAYLOIt, Chi of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Ya., September 25, 1861. Licut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that Colonel (iansevoort, Thirteenth New York Cavalry, returned to-day, having been as far as Piedmont. 11 herewith inclose his report.~ The engineer appointed to make the examination of the railroad expressed himself as satisfied with his reconnaissance. I directed Colonel (i~aiisevoort that as he was to pass on his route within half a mile of Jo. Blackwells house, that he should burn it. as it was notoriously a place of meeting of Mosbys men. The three companies sent here I have not yet directed to return, 1)ut awa.it your orders concerning them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 11. M. LAZELLE, Colonel lixteen tk Xe w York (1a ra lrq, (~)ntdq. Cavalry Jtrif/a(.le. lIEA~) WAR TEES S IXTIT ~ARMY ~ ~ORPS, September 2~, 1561. Lient. Col. C. KINGSBUEX. Jr.. Assistant A(lj atan t- General, Middle Al ilitai~~ I)i r is K) a: COLONEL: Just before the Sixth Corps left Petersburg for Washing- tomi in July, and aftci passing throuoh the memorable campaign from the Rapidan to the Apponiattox. 1 had the honor of presenting among the names of offuem (leservin g of advancement that of Col. Charles II. Tompkins, Fust Rhode Island Light Artillery, for promotion to the rank of brigadier ocueral. Colonel Tompkins has commanded the Artillery Brioade ol this corps, consisting of from eight to twelve bat- teries. for a Ion ci tuime with distinguished merit. and accomnpanie(l the corps to the \ illex ol Virginia, though one-halt of his command was left behind with the Army of the Potomac. On the 1 :;th instant his terni of service of three years expired, but, unwilling to leave at a time when a battle was iniminent which miiight ha xe a controlling influence on the results of the w-ar, he x-olunteem-ed to remain. Hie offer was gladly aeeel)ted, an(i ( ohuiel Tomnpkiiis hi~is served with his usual zeal an(l ability ti irough the short but eveiitThl campaign to this time, and still continues his services. At the battle of the ( )pequon Colonel Tompkins gave, at an eventful umomnent of the iiglof, his personal atten- tion to two of his 1)atteries, turning them upon an advancing column of the emiemny which had made a serious impressiout on our lines, aim dby a rapid and well-directed canister fire nuder short range aided niateri- ally in repulsing the charge. Colommel Tompkins is an aceomplishe(l ~See Part I, p. 618 Page 199 Cw. LV.] OORRESPONDENOE, ETO.UNION. 199 artillery officer, excelled by few, if any, in our service, ad his general military knowledge renders him competent for a infantry command. If promoted, as I earnestly hope he may be, I should be glad to have him as a commander of an infantry brigade, or as chief of artillery, the responsibilities of which position far exceed, as they do in importaflce, that of an infantry brigade commander. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Ci. WRIGHT, Major-GeneruJ, Cosmaesd~ssg. HEADQUARTERS SIxTH Any Coups, Septeusber 28,1864. Limit. Col. C. KnhGseurr Jr., Aesiataiat AdJntustde,seraZ, Middle Military Dfrieios: CoLonL: In compliance with orders of the 26th instan I have the honor to present the names of the following officers in the Sixth Corps who particularly distinguished themselves during the late engage- ments, and who are worthy and deserving of promotion on that account: First. Brig. Gen. J. B. Rickets, commanding Third Division, who, at the baffle of Fishers Hill, led his division in the most gallant maimer, carrying the works on the enemys line. I recommend him for the brevet of major-general. Second. Brig. Gen. Geor~eW. Getty, commanding Second Division, who handled his command m the most skiUfiul and gallant manner on the 19th instant; and again on the 22d, when his division assaulted ad carried the works in the center of therebel lines, charging over ground of the most diffipult character. I present his name for the brevet of major-generaL Third. Brig. Gen. Frank Wheaton, who gallantly commanded the FiraC Brigade, Second Division, on the 19th, and the First Division, to which he had succeeded, on the 22d. Fourth. Brig. Gen. Emory Upton,commading Second Brigade, First Division on the 19th till the death of General Russell and afterward the division, till he was wounded. His conduct, till forced to leave the field, was most gallant and efficient. lIe is deserving the brevet of major-general. Fifth. Uol. 0. Edwards Thirty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers, comman(Uflg Third Brigade, First Division, in thebattle of the 19th till General Up ton was wounded, and the division during the remainder of the day. His command was not in the battle of the 22d, having been left as a guard at Winchester, but his gallant and efficient conduct on the 19th entitles him to the brevet of brigadier-general, for which he is now recommended. Sixth. CoL Charles H. Tompkins First Rhode Island Light Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade, wko served, as he has always done, with peat gallantry in both the battles, and who personally superin- tended two of the batteries on the 19th, at a critical moment turning the fire upon the advancing columns of the enemy, and doing much thereby toward securing the successes of the day. He is recommended for the brevet of brigadier-generaL The term of service of Colonel Tompkins had expired ore the army moved on the 19th instant, but unwilling to leave on the eve of an important battle, lie volunteered his services and was gladly accepted. He is earnestly recommended for the brevet of brigadier-general Page 200 2OO~ OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Cni~. LV. Seventh. Col. J. lvi. Warner, Eleventh Vermont Volunteers, who commanded the Second Brigade, Second DiviSion, on the 19th, and the First Brigade on the 21st and 22d, with great gallantry and sue ~ He is recommended for the brevet of brigadier-general. Eighth. Col. J. Warren Keifer, One hundred and tenth Ohio Vol. unteers, commanding Second Brigade, Third Division, who led his brigade most gallantly on the 19th and 22d, particularly on the latter day, when his command was first in the works on the left of the enemys hue. He is recommended for the brevet of brigadier-general. Ninth. Col. Joseph B. Hainblin, Sixty-fifth New York Volnnteers, who comnianded the Second Brigade, First Division on the 19th after Gen- eral Upton assnined command of the division, and also on the 22d, behaving in a most gallant manner. lie is recommended for the brevet of brigadier-general. Tenth. Col. Ranald S. Mackenzie, Second Connectient heavy Artil- levy, whose gallantry in the actions of the 19th and 22d entitle him to some distingnishing mark of acknowledomnent. He is reconlmen(ied for the brevet of brigadier-general. The foregoing list is restricted to those recommended for the grade of general officers, and by no means embraces all who by their good conduct in the battles of the 19th and 22d deserve some mark of rec- ogmiition from the Government. Should it be determined to reward subordinate officers by brevets, I shall take pleasure in presenting a list of names which shall, as far as practicable, embrace the most dis- tin guished, though where all did so wellwhere officers and men, almost withont exception, did their duty gallantlyit will be no easy matter to discriminate. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, ]IIajor- General - Commanding. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIxTH ARMY CORPS kSeptdulbev 28 1(SGi. The rations issued to the troops last nio-ht mnnst be made to last four dn v:; from this morning, as it is doubtfnl whether any mumore supplies can reach the command within that time. I y command of Major-General Wright: C. II. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, AS~eptember 28, 1864. 1. In accordance with orders from headquam-ters Middle Military Division, the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps will move to-morrow at 5 a. me. to Mount Crawford in the following order: The Nineteenth Corps, Brevet Major- General Emory commanding-, on the right of the Staun- ton 1)ike; the Sixth Corps 011 the left of the l)ikethe Second Division on ~he right, the Thild on the left, and the First in reserve. The See- 011(1 and Third Divisions formed in two lines, will move by the right of regiments to the front, the fromit and left flank being well covered by a line of skirmishers. The First Division will follow in the order most convenient. A rifled battery of the Sixth Corps, to be designate Page 201 CHAP. IV. COERESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 201 by the chief of artillery, will PAlow the leading battery of the Niuc- teenth Corps on the pike. The remainder of the Sixth Corps artillery will h)llow that of the Nineteenth Corps. The ambulances of the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps will follow the artillery of the Sixth in the order named, to be foil owed by the trains of the two corps in the same order. The pickets of the Sixth Corps will be withdrawn by Colonel Macken- zie, corps officer of the day, in time to rejoin their commands. II. Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, Fifteenth New Jersey Volunteers, is detailed as corps officer of the day for to-morrow in l)lace of Colonel Warner, heretofore detailed, and will take charge of the skirmish line to-morrow. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Acting Itssistant A djnt~n t- General. HDQRs. Tuinn BRIG., FIRST Div., SIXTH ARMY Conps. September 28, 18G4. Brig. Gen. T. H. NEILL, Comm an ding Post, Jfa rtinsburg: DEAR Sin: Your favor* of yesterday was duly received and your dis- patches for the front duly forwarded. Mosby has a force of abont 400 men and one gun~ lie lurks in the vicinity of Berryville. The medical director has about 2 ~00 wounded here will not bear removal for they six weeksthat is, with the exception of about 500. Mosby captured, killed, and wounded thirty-five cavalry out of forty-five that I sent to the Opequon to see about some wounded officers of ours reported there; he attacked with 200 men. I will send from here to-morrow 850 pris- oiiers of war under charge of a strong escort of infantry to yon. No news from the front. The last dispatch received, moight before last, was dated at Ha.rrisonburg. I will co-operate with you to the extent of my ability. The lieutenant comm andin g the escort, sent by you yesterday, reports the telegraph line as follows: From Martinsburg to Bunker lull, but one pole standing, one lying down, the rest cut. From Bunker lull to Union sixty-one poles standing. About 3 per cent. poles (lestroyed from Martinsburg to this point. 1 have taken about 400 stand of arms from the houses of citizens. Can you have my mails, Third Brigade, First Division, Sixth Army Corps, forwarded in a sel)arate bag ~ Yours, with respect and esteem, 0. EDWARDS, Colonel, Comm an ding Post. HEADQUARTERS MIDmr~E MILITARY DiVISION, Harrison burg, September 28, 1SGI8 a. m. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Corn manding First Ca ra lry Jhrmsi on: GENERAL: Your note received. Reoccupy Port Republic if you can, and by all mneimus open communication with General Torbert. I want you to watch Swift Run Gap; it is very inmportaimt. Very respectfully, your obedient serx-ai t, J)~ IT. SHERIDAN, Jlia)or- Gen C~(( 1, Commanding. ~Not foun4 Page 202 2U2 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANI) PA. [CHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY I)IVISi ON, A~eptcmbcr 28, 1861. Brig. Gen. W. MERRITT: GENERAL: General Sheridan just arrived here, inquiring for you. 1 tol(l him you had sent two brigades west to verify the reports received from the signal station, whereupon lie replied, Sensible fellow. Very respectfully, EDW. MYERS, Lieutenant an(l A ide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Harrison burg, Septem ber 28, 186110.30 p. m. Brig. Gem \X. MERRITT, Commanding First Cavalry f)irision: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you leave a small force at Swift Run and Browns Gaps, to watch sai(l gaps, and with the balance of your own and Custers (livisiou swing arOun(l through or near Piedmont, extending towar(l and as near Staunton as possible. Destroy all mills, alt grain and forage, you can, drive oft or kill all stock, and other wise carry but the instructions of Lieutenant- General Grant, an extract of which is sent you, aiid which means, leave the Valley a barren waste. In carrying out these instructions, no villages or private houses will be burned. Camp close to the left of the infantry at Mount Crawford to-morrow night. The Sixth and Nineteenth Army Corps will move to Mount Crawford to-morrow. Very respectfully, your obedient servant tJAS. W. FORSYTh, Lieutenant- (Jo lonel and (Jhief~ o/ Staff. [linclosure. CITY POINT, VA., August 2(;, 18643 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN: * * * * * Do all the damage to railroads and crops you can. Carry oft stock of all descriptions, an(l negroes, So as to 1)1-event further planting. If the war is to last another year, we want the Shenandoah Valley to remain a barren waste. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND CAVALRY l)IVISION, September 28, 1864. Brig. Gen. G. A. CUSTER, Conunanding Second Ca ra iry Division: GENERAL: My command has reached the north bank ~f the Middle River, at the fording over which our division crossed when we retired from this place. The commanding officer of the skirmish line reports the fence upon the opposite side thrown up in the foim of a bam-ricade, but apparently evacuated. The brigade from First l)ivision has reached the heights above the town and are firing a few straggling shots, bu Page 203 CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNJON. CHAP. LV.] 203 I do not think it amounts to anything. The enemys 1)iCkets were at the stream this a. in., but I find none how. I can leari nothing relia~ ble from the citizens. My skirmish-line is crossing the river. If it crosses safelyl shall cross one regiment and learn what is on the other side. Ees})ecthlllv, & e J. M. SCTIOONMAI{EI{, (blond. E MILITARY lilviSlo HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY MIDDE September 25, .18618 a. m. General WILSON: GENERAL: in pursuance of instructions received from the major- general comman(ling Middle Military Division, you will destroy all hay, grain, or other supplies of use to the enemy, and drive along all stock found on tile route of march. This should be done by I)arties corn- mauded by an officer and large enough to insure their safety against capture by guerrillas. I am, general, very respectfnlly, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., ANsistant A (1 j~ta ut- General. hEADQUARTERs, Harper~s Perry. September 28, 1864. lion. E. NI. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just heard from General Sheridan six miles beyond Harrison- l)urg. 1)ispatches arrived at Winchester yesterday from him at that 1)oi1~t for me, were immediately forwarded, but as they have not come to hand must have been captured. If a cavalry force could be sent from X\ashingtoii with speed to Ipperville Mosby could be captured. I have information that I consider reliable that he is iii a house in Up- perville, too badly wounded to be moved; that the report of his being s& it to Richmond is false, intended to (hivert atteiition. If I had a force of cavalry to use I should send them at once. All my cavalry is compelled to go to front escorting supJ)hies. Respectfully, JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brtqadicr- General. MAE TI NSIWRU, Scptember 28, 1864. General STEVENSON: Can you send me a regiment of good infantry and 100 cavalry? NIjor-General Kelley says the rebels are threatening us at Ciarksburg a iid Grafton. They occupy Weston and I3uckhannou. Am obliged to send a regiment as guard to the train. My force is not adequate to perform all I would like to do for tile Government. I~lease reply at once. TI-lOS. II. NEILL, Th-iga d icr- General, (7o111 ma a ding Page 204 204 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA No. 75. Harrisonbury, Va., September 28, 1864. I. The troops now serving in the Valley of the Kanawba will consti- tute the First Separate Brigade of this department. 11. Brig. Gem I. C. Sullivan, U. S. ~Tolui~teers, is hei~eby assigned to the coinniand of the First Separate Brigade. 13v order of Brevut Major-General Crook: P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- general. CINCINNATI, OHIO, September 28, 1864. His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, 1~resident of the United States: DEAR SIR: You will please allow me to call your attention to the fact that Col. B. B. Hayes, of this city, now nnder Sheridan, has well and thithfully served his country for near three years. His friends have nominated him in the Second District (Longs) fbr Congress. His election is not certain. Is it Hot due to him as well as in aid politic of his election, to promote him to a brigadier-generall He is a first- class man in every respect. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDGAR CONKLING. HEAnQUARTERS I)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Jlitrrisonburg, Va., September 28, 1864. Brigadier-General DUFFI~, Commandiug First Cavalry Division, Cumberland, Md.: The commanding general directs that you have men armed at once and sent to Green Spring Run. Such excuses as no arms or equip- ments can not be taken. P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. CUMBERLAND, Mn., September 28, 1864. (Received 3 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W HALLEcK, Chief of Staff: As i cannot communicate readily with General Crook, I deem it my duty to advise you of the status of affairs in West Virginia. A rebcl force, estimated at 600 or 700 mounted men, came through Bra xton County and occupied Weston and Buckhannon yesterday. The small force at Buckbannon fell back on Beverly. It was also reported last night that a force occupied the Beverly and Philippi pike a few miles above the latter l)lace. This movement wonid seem to indicate that it is the intention of the enemy to 2ttempt the capture of the force at Beverly, con sistiiig of about 40() mcmi of the Eighth Ohio Cavalry. I have conceiitrated all the three available in my command for the l)rotection of Clarksburg and Grafton. At these points is Page 205 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 205 large amount of Government prof)erty, railroad equipments, and im- portant bridges. I cannot learn positively what force this is, or who is in counliand but it is believed to be a portion of Echols. 13. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. (Copies seiit to Generals Grant and Sheridan.) Y\AsnI~GTON 1) C K ., S~eptember 26, 1861. General KELLEY, Cam beria a (I, Md. You must make the best disposition to resist the rai(l in your power, by drawing in your forces to the most iml)ortant l)oints and having trans})ortation ready to concentrate theni wherever the enemy attacks. y~r~ cannot help you now from here. H. W. IJALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff CIhI\IRERLAND, Mn., September 26, i661~5~ ~p. m. (Received 9.3() a. in. 29th.) M~jjor-General IJALLECK, Chief of StaW: Colonel N\mlkinson reports that a citizen scout sent to l3nckhannon last night was captured there this morning an(i paroled by General Echols and returned this evening, lie reports the rebel force holding i8nckhannon to be 1j~00 strong, and that another portion of the force had gone toward I3everly. This really seems to be a formidable raid, commanded by General Echols in person. I cannot raise for the defense of Clarksburg and Grafton more than 700 or 800 men. 13. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CUMBERLAND, iSeplem ber 26, 1664. Governor BOREMAN, Wheeling: Colonel Wilkinson reports Ruckhannon held by 1~300 rebels, in com- niand of General Echols. Will it be 1)O55iblC to raise force of a few hundred volunteers to defend Grafton~ If so, send them out as soon as possible. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. WHEELING, September 26,1664. General KELLEY: I do not know where to get volunteers. TIme militia of Harrison, Taylor, and Marion Counties have been called out, and are under coin- niand ot Brigadier-General Bunker at Fairmont. He is subject to your orders, and will call out the militia of other counties if you request. I will direct him to obey your orders. A. I. BOREMAN, Governor Page 206 206 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Mi)., AND PA. CHAP. LV. CAMDEN STATIoN, September 28, ISGi. (iReceived 4 p. in.) Maj(w-& eneral KELLEY: I hope no disaster is threatening on the opening of our road by the approach of the enemy from Weston and Buckhannoii. What about this ~ Vvould you l)lease let us have your views ? IDo you want re-en- forceinents yet, or are you getting them from the west? W. P. SMITh. (xwBEnLANI, September 28, 18(;iiO p. )fl. WILLIAM P. SMITH, Esq., Ca ))iddn Station Ba Itim ore Scouts report l3uckhannon held by 1,500 rebels, and another portion of the for(e gone toward Beverly. the whole (onimaluled I)y General Echols iii person. 8. F. KELLEY, Bre Pet iJ((j() r- (knera 1. (LARKSBITItO, W. VA., Septem her 28, 186.1. Brevet Major- General KELLEY: The citizen scouts tinder Major Laii~ reaclicil Bnckhainioii at 3 oclock this mon iii g. Al )ollt (layligi it ti ii ~y were snrj wised at id captured, robbed. and paroled. Some ot titetit have just tThClie(l here, ~iiid state that the rebel torce at Buckhannon this nloriiing was fiom 1,500 to 2,000 strong, nud en Echols, and that Echols paroled them. rVli1~ee paroled mcii left Buvkhaniion at 8 oclock, aiid the rel)e15 were still there. The Beverly mail conner reached Webster tli is even ing. lie left Beverly at S this morliinY lIe reports that Colotiel Youarts scouts had just ar- nived when he left. They reported the enemy within titteen miles of Bev- erly with 400 cavalry and 200 inflintry, going toward Beverly on Buck- hannon road. These statements agree. A large torce of the enemy is in the county and I. think the place in danger. Major Lang and the most intelligent of his command remained at Buckhannon, not beitig walking men, I suppose. N. WILKINSON, (lob ,iel. iRowLEsnuno, W. NA., September 28, 1864. (Beceived 6.45 p. in.) General 1& ELLEY: Enemy reported north of Philippi; think they are making thr road at Newburg or Rowlesbung. WM. hALL, Captain. C U MItERLAINI)~ S(ptember 28, 1864. Captain VIALL, Row lesb arq Your telegrani received. Put your torce in condition to make a gOo(I defense if they attack you. I will send some iron-clad cars np the road to-night. B. F. KELLEY, Breret IlIajor- tieneral Page 207 CHAP. LW] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 CUMBERLAND, AS(j)teinbcr 2~, 1864. Colonel M(I)ONALD. (irafton What news this a. in.? Have you received your aiuiiiunition ? Ten boxes go to you this a. in. from New Creek. Keep me fully advised. 8. F. KELLEY, I~rcret Major- General (iRAFION, & J)t(?iitbCi 28, 1561. (ileceived 4 p. in.) i\Jaj. (Thu. B. F. KELLEY: I have 110 reliable news front the enemy. We have scouts out, but they have not vet returned. II received the ten boxes of ammunition l)y passenger tram. JOl-IN S. McJ)ONALD, I~ieute~tanl- Colon ci. CUMIirnl~LANo, A~(j~/C1fl liCi 2~, 15U1. I}rigadier-( reneral SULLiVAN, Cli arleston ~Aeston and Buckhannon were occupied yesterday by a rebel fbree of about 2.000 men, mostly nlounte(l, in command of Ceimeral Echols in Person. I am concentrating all of my available force at Crafton and Ciarl~sbnrg. Is there any movement of tile enemy in your valley? B. F. KELLEY, llrecet Major- General. (ILARLESTON, M. vA.~ September 28, 1 564. Lieutenant WADE, Win tield: A report is brought here that 200 or 300 rebels are going to try and surprise some of our small 1)osts. Be on the alert. l)id you hear anything of those rebels yesterday ~ JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel, dW. CUMBER LAND, AS4tcmber 28, 18649 p. in. Major-General HEINTZELMAN, Columbus, Ohio We are again threatened with a formidable rebel raid into West \mroinia. A force of 1,500 rebels commanded by General Echols in person, entered Bucklmannon to-day. This is only twenty-eight miles from the railroad. Can you send me ammy force temporarily l If so, order them to U-rafton at once. B. F. KELLEY, ireret Major- (Jeneral. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 228. Chambersburg, Pa., September 28, 1861. 1. Col. F. Asbury Awl, Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, will proceed, without delay, by railroad, with six corn Page 208 [CHAP. LV. 208 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. panies of his regiment from Chainbersbnrg to Pittsburg, Pa., and arry out the instructions which he may receive frota Maj. it. 1. Dodge, IT. S. Army, and acting assistant J)rovost-marslnd-general, Western Divis- ion of Pennsylvania. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. 2. First Lieut. S. C. Wiestling, Independent Mounte(l Company 100- days Penn sylvania Voin uteers, will proceed, with out d clay, by rail road, with his company, from Greencastle to Pittsburg, Pa., and report to (ci. F. Asbury Awl, Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, at t.hat place, for duty. The quartermaster~s (ieI)artlnent will furnish the necessary transportation. 3. Capt. W. H. Dunbar, Forty-eighth Regiment New York Volun- teers, and acting chief ordnance officer of the l)epartinent of the Sus- quehanna, will return without (lelay to the eity council of Philadelphia the 20-pound r Parrott gnus, eaissons, annnunitio~ i, harness, unpie- nients, & c.. whi Ii were loaned the United States in July last by said council. The q~martermasters department will furnish the necessary transportatioi 1. * * * * * 5. Capt. Lewis Degen, commanding Company 13, Two hundred and secoiid Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed, without delay, with his company, to Chamnbersbnrg an(l relieve Capt. William iMeCar- rol, Company 13, Two hundred and first Regiment Pe iinsylvania Vol- as , his company as provost guard. Upon unteers, post coimminander and being relieved, Captain MeCarrol will report with his company to Ccl. F. Asbury Awl, Two hundred and flist Regiment Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, for orders. * * * * By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant Adjutant- General. V~ASHINGTON, D. C., September 29, 18619.10 a.m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: I hope it will lay no constraint on you, nor do harm anyway, for inc to say I ama a little atfai(I lest Lee sends re-enforceinents to Early, and thus enables him to turn upon Sheridan. A. LINCOLN. DEEP BOTTOM, September 29, 18641.40 p. in. (Received 3.30 p. in.) President A. LINCOLN: Your dispatch just received. I am taking steps to prevent Lee 5011(1- ing ic-euforcements to Early 1)y attacking him here. Our advance is now within six miles of Richmond and have captured some very strong inclose(l forts, some fifteen or nmre pieces of artillery and several hun- died prisoners. Although I have been at the front, I caim give no esti- mate of our losses. About (00 wounded men, however, have been brought in. U. S. G XNT, Lieutenant- General Page 209 Cuir. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 209 WASHINGTON. September ~& 9, 18613.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: * * * - * * General Kelley is threatened at Grafton and Clarksburgby a consid- erable raid under Echols. I have ordered General Stevenson, at liar- Pers Ferry, to send him re-enforceinents. We have but a single small regiment of cavalry here for scouting. Another small one has beeu out OiL the line toward Strasburg. It will be sent toward Culpeper imnie- (liately on arrival. Everything is ready to open the road as soon as I get definitive information of Sheridan. II. W. HALLECK, Major- Gmeral aud Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., Sejptember 29, 18649 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: * * * * * Operations to-day prevented getting Richmond papers, and conse- quently from hearing of Sheridan. Up to 4 p. m. on Tuesday he was all right. At that time he was engaged burning railroad track between Churchs [Christians] Creek and Staunton. I am satisfied no trool)s have gone from here against him, and they cannot in the next two days. By that time he will be through and on his way to a position where he can defend and supply himself. Stevenson can, I think, spare troops enough for Kelley. If he cannot, send Stevenson a new regiment or two to defend Harpers Ferry, and let his older troops go to Kelley. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HARRISON~3URG, September 29, 18647.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, (Received October 2.) City Point: In my last dispatch I informed you that I pressed Early so closely through New Market, at the same time sending cavalry around his tiank, that he gave up the Valley and took to the mountains, passing through Browns Gap. I kept up the pursuit to Port Republic, destroy- imig 75 wagons and 4 caissons. I sent General Torbert, who overtook me at Harrisonburg, to Staunton with Wilsons division of cavalry and one l)rigade of Merritts. Torbert entered Staunton on the 26th, and destroyed a large quantity of rebel Government propertyharness, saddles, small-arms, hard bread, flour, repair shops, & c. He then pro- ceeded to Waynesborough, destroying the iron bridge over the South Branch of the Shenandoah, seven miles of track, the depot buildings, Government tannery, and a large amount of leather, flour, and stores, & c., at that place. lie found the tunnel defended by inflintry, and retired via Staunton, destroying, according to your original instructions to me. This morning I sent around Merritts and Custers divisions, via Piedmont, to burn grain, & c., pursuant to your instructions. My impression is that most of the troops which Early had left passed through 14 H HVOL XLIII~ PT I Page 210 [CHAP. LV. 210 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. the mountains to Charlottesville. Kershaws division came to his as- sistance, and, I think, passed along the west base of the mountain to Waynesborough. The advance of my infaiitry is at Mount Crawford, eight miles south of llarrisonburg. I will go oii and clean out the Val- ley. I am getting twenty-five to forty prisoners daily, who come in front the mountains on each side all(i deliver themselves up. From the most reliable accounts, Earlys army was completely broken up and is dispirited. It will be exceedingly difficult for me to carry the infantry colnnrn over the mountains and strike at the Central road. I cannot accumulate sufficient stores to (10 so, and think it best to take some position near Front Royal, and ol)eratc with the cavalry and infantry. I will, how ever, stay here for a few days. Kershaw had not reached Richmond, but was somewhere in the viciiiity of Gordonsville, when he received orders to rejoin Early. The destruction of the grain and forage front here to Staunton will be a terrible blow to theii~. All the grain, forage, & c., in the vicinity of Staunton was retained for the use of Earlys army; all in the lower part of the Valley was shipped to Rich- inond for the use of Lees army. The country from here to Staunton was abundantly supplied with forage and grain, & c. P. H. ShERIDAN, ]lfojor- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHiNGTON, 221) ARMY CORPS, S~ptember 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN P. SLOUGH, Afilita )~y Governor of A lexafl(lrU( GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you send that regiment of the two (Fifth and Sixth Pennsylvania Heavy Artil- lery) ordered to you which has the most reliable commanding officer at once to Bristoe Station. .You will order him to divide his command equally between the three bridges over Kettle Run, Broad Run, and Cedar Run. The regiment will carry fIve days rations. At the end of four days Brigadier-General MeCallum promises to have a train of cars at Bristoe. A 5 500fl as the troops are located nicasures will be taken to n~ake the positions assumed (lefensible against any attempt which may be essayed to destroy them by the enemy. Two additional regiments have been ordered from Philadelphia, and as soon as they arrive here will be ordered to report to you. Very respectfully, general, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, NA., September 29, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, J)EPT. OF WASHINGTON SIR: The Sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery has not yet reported. As they are needed on the line between Alexandria and Fairfax, 1 request that their movement may be made more rapid. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General Page 211 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 211 ALEXANDRIA, VA., September 29, 1864. (Received 6.45 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPT. OF WASHINGTON: SIR: Nothing unusual has happened in this command to-day. . One battalion Sixth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, 530 strong, has just reported. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, September 29, 1864. Col. H. M. LAZELLE, Commanding Cavalry Brigade: COLONEL: The major-general commanding desires that, collecting as strong a force as your command will afford, you move September 30 in the direction of Culpeper Court-House. The object of your scout will be to discover, if practicable, the force occupying Gordonsville and approaches, if any re-enforcements have been forwarded from Rich- mond to Early, and if there is any indication of Earlys movement in this direction. Lieutenants Lamed and Field, who behaved badly dur- ing your recent expe!ition to the Rapid an, have been recommended for summary dismissal. Major Bosworth should be brought at first oppor- tunity which offers before a general court-martial. Very respectfully, colonel, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., September29, 1864. (Received 12 in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: I have accumulated here 2,000 stragglers, recruits, and convalescents, and ~hermdan orders them armed and fitted for the field. They belong to fifty different regiments, without officers to become responsible for ordnance, & c. Is there any special order pertinent to such cases that (loes not make the officer who arms and equips them personally respon- sible~ JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, September 29, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Your telegram has been referred to General Halleck to direct the organization of two provisional regiments, officers to be sent you from Annapolis. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 212 212 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. WASHINGTON, D. C., AS~eptember 29, 186410.40 a. rn. Brig. Gem JoHN D. STEVENSON: Send immediately from Martinsburg, or Harpers Ferry, by rail, 700 or 800 men to Grafton and Clarksburg, to re-enforce General Kelley. Answer; and also notify General Kelley at Cuinberland. H. W. HALLECK, iVijajor- General and Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 29, 186411.30 a. m. (Received 12 in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLEUK, Chief of Staff: I can send the required troops to Cumberland as soon as trains can be furnished, but it will use np my garrison. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HARPERS FERRY, September 29, 1864. (Received 12 in.) General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have seventy-seven menstragglersaccumulated here, of One hundred and seventy-ninth New York Infantry. They say their regi- ment is with General Grant. Where shall they be sent? JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 29, 18642.55 p. m. General J. D. STEVENSON, Harper~s Ferry, W. Va.: Send the men of the One hundred and seventy-ninth New York tc Camp Distribution, near Alexandria, to join their regiment. J. C. KELTON, Colonel and As8istant Adjutant-General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., September 29, 18641.30 p. in. (Received 2.40 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The troops are ready to go as soon as railroad can furnish transpor tation. I have notified the agent here, but cannot learn as yet whei transportation can be furnished. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier-General Page 213 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNTON. 213 WASHINGTON, ID. C., September 29, 1861 3 13 p. m. Brigadier- General STEVENSON, Harpers Perry: Stragglers, recruits, and convalescents not belonging to General Sheridans command will be sent to Camp Distribution, Alexandria; those belonging to his command will be organized into provisional battalions and armed for temporary service at Harpers Ferry. If you require more officers for this purpose telegraph to the Adjutant- General how many you want. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff HARPERS FERRY, September 29, 1864. Adjutant-General THOMAS, Washington, D. C.: I shall require, to organize for service provisional battalions, at least thirty officers. I am directed to apply to you for them by iViajor-Gen- eral Halleck, Chief of Staff. They should be forwarded at once. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, ID. C., September 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN ID. STEVENSON: A regiment has been ordered to you from Baltimore. Re-enforce- ments should be sent to Kelley as soon as possible. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, September 29, 1864. (Received 6.05 p. in.) General HALLEOX, Chief of Staff: The troops required for General Kelley have left. Ordered to report to him at Cumberland. Respectfully, JOHN ID. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, ID. C., Se 29, 1864. J. W. GARRETT, Camden Station, Baltimore: General Stevenson has been directed to send a regiment from Har- pers Ferry to re-enforce General Kelley, without delay. General Wal- lace has been ordered to send a regiment to General Stevenaon. Please see to transportation. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Stiff Page 214 214 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [OnAP. IN. WASHINGTON, 1). C., September 29, 1864. General KELLEY, Cnmberland: General Stevensoll has been ordered to sen(l you immediately 700 or S00 men from Martinsburg or Harpers Ferry. U. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. COLUMBUS, Ouio, [Sentember] 29, 1864. (Received 30th.) General KELLEY: I have ordered one-half of the regiments I have now at Gallipolis to proceed without delay to Grafton to report to yon for temporary duty. These men can be spared only for a short time. S. P. IIEINTZELMAN, Major- General. WHEELING, September 29, 1$64. (Received 2.10 p. in.) General KELLEY: Is not General Duffid at Cuinberland with a large number of cavalry? If so, may I not ask the Secretary of War to order a portion of them to report to you for duty temporarily, to meet the present raid. A. I. BOREMAK. CUNBERLAND, September 29, 1864. Governor BOREMAN, Wheeling: General Dnffi6s command is neither armed nor mounted. Are now awaiting their equipment. I go to Grafton to-night. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CUMBERLAND, September 29, 1864. Captain SHEETS, New Creek: You will send another section of Battery L, [Firsti Illinois Artillery to Grafton without delay. The railroad agent will provide transporta- tion. Get them oft at once. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CLARKSBURG, September 29, 1864. (Received 9.15 a. Iii.) Brevet Major-General KELLEY: At 7 this morning 1 received a telegram from Captain Ilagans, eight miles north of Buckhannoii. He says: I entered Buckhannon last evening at 6 oclock. The rebels left yesterday at 12. I think they have entirely disappeared, going in the direction of Webster County. They couhi attack Beverly from that direction. H. H. HAGANS Page 215 CHAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 215 I am inclined to think that the movement toward Webster County is a blind, and they will return when they know our forces here from their spies. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. CLARKSBURG, [September] 29, 1864. Major-General KELLEY: The rebels are again approaching Buckhannou. Hagans has left, and desires you to send re-enforcements. You know this cannot be done. Would it be well to evacuate Beverly? N. WILKINSON. CLARKSBITRG, September 29, 1864. (Tieceived 8.45 p. iii.) Byt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY: The rebel operator has connected with the wires somewhere. To advise Beverly as proposed would inform the enemy, so that they could (lit our troops oft as they fall back. N. WILKiNSON, Colonel. BUCKHANNON, W. VA., September 29, 1864. Col. N. WILKINSON, Comm ending, Clerksburg, TV. Tea.: The enemy camped last night at Walkersville, twenty-two miles from here, toward Bulitown. Walkersville is about sixteen miles from Wes- ton. I think they are retiring. This is positive inforrnatioii. No citi- zens of Buckhannou were injured. I believe it is the intention of the rebels to again visit this country, and there should be more force here and at Weston. Two or three companies of infantry and another of cavalry two of , , give ample I)rotec and pieces artillery would I think tion. Send mc such re-enforcemeuts at once as you can. My men and horses are worn out. Can you send inc re-enforcements, so that they readi me to-morrow? I had 110 mcii injured. H. H. HAGANS, Captain. BUCKHAT~NON, W. VA., September 29, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel YouART, Commanding, Bererly, W. Ye. I entered Buckhannon yesterday at 6 l).~m.; camped on Clarksburg road eight miles; caine in town to-day at 11 a. m. Rebels are retiring toward Lewisbnrg. Report says they were crossing at ~ Mills; if so, they will attack you from this direction. Later report says they did not cross there, but arc still retiring. II. H. HAGAN~, Captain Page 216 21G OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CHARLESTON W Maj. H. SLACK, . YA.~ September 29 1864. Loop Creek, TV. Va.: General Echols has occupied Weston an(l Buckliannon with about 2,000 men. He may come down the Suinmerville pike. Have you heard from that way l Ke~p Browns and ltamsays companies on the lookout, and have them keep you posted. Send a scout in the direction of Summerville, and keep your left well guarded. Acknowledge re- ceipt of this. JOHN II. OLEY, Colonel, Commandi~tg. CUMBEELAND, September 29, 1864. Captain PETRIE, Comm ending Iron-dads, Rowiesburg: You will follow the mail train this a. m. to Grafton. Report to Colonel McDonald at this place. I cannot leave here to-day. B. F. KE LLEY Breret ]lliajor- General. WASHJNcTTON, D. C., September 29, 1864. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore: Send inimediately to Harpers Ferry a regiment, to report to General Stevenson. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. BALTTMORE, September 29, 1864, (Received 3 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff, Washinqton: Your dispatch received. The regiment will be sent without delay. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General of Volunteers. Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, BALDIORE, September 29, 1864. Relay House, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: Put the One hundred and ninety-fifth Pennsylvania Militia eu route at once, to report to General Stevenson at Harpers Ferry. Let there be no delay. Send the re-enlisted men to Camp ~Bradford. Acknowl- edge receipt. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE. Assistant Adjutant- General Page 217 CHAP. LY.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 217 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 229. 5 (Jhambersbu g, Pa., September 29, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. Capt. Thomas S. McGowan, Patapsco Guard, Independent Com- pany Maryland Volunteers, wilt proceed, without delay, with his corn- i~any, to Chambersburg, and relieVe Capt. Lewis Degen, Company B, Two hundred and second Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, as post commander, and his company as provost-guard. Upon being relieved, Captain Degen will report with his company to the commanding officer of his regiment for orders. 5. The commanding officer of the Two hundred and second Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers will proceed, without delay, with his regiment, troin Chambersbnrg to Washington, D. C., and report for orders to Major-General Angur, commanding Department of Washington. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * 7. Capt. John G. Wilson, commanding First Battalion, 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed, without delay, by railroad, with three companies under his command, from Chambersbimrg to Pittsburg, i~a., and carry out the instructions which he may receive from Maj. Richard I. Dodge, U. S. Army, and acting assistant provost-marshal- general, Western l)ivision of Pennsylvania. The quartermasters de- partmnent will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * * * 11. Col. F. Asbury Awl, Two hundred and first Regiment Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, will proceed, without delay, with the six companies of his regiment under his command, by railroad, from lluntingdon, Pa., to Washimmgton, D. C., and report to Major-General Augur, U. S. Volun- teers, commanding Department of Washington, for orders. The quar- terina sters department will furnish the necessary transportation. By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant Adjutant- general. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, September 29, 1864. The following extract of a communication from the major-general comumanding the army is furnished for the information and guidance of commuanding officers, in carrying out the instructions of Lieutenant- General Grant, in the destruction of property: Destroy all mills, all grain and forage, you can. Drive off or kill all stock, and otherwise carry out the instructions of Lieutenant-General Grant, an extract of which is sent you, and which means, leave the Valley a barren waste.~* Iii carrying out these instructions ii or private houses will be burned. ~, o villages By command of Brigadier-General Merritt: A. E. DANA, Assistant Adjutant- General. *For extract, see p. 202 Page 218 218 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 30, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Stevenson and Kelley were both re-en foree(l yesterday. * * * * * * * ii. W. HALLECK, ]lJiajor- General and Chief of Star. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, September 30, 1864. Brig. Gen. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army: GENERAL: Having understood that there are two new regiments now organized in New Jerseythe Thirty-eighth and Thirty-ninthand about to be ordered to the field, I have the honor to particularly request that they may be sent to me for the following reasons: The Jersey Brigade in the Sixth Corps has gained a reputation as one of the very best in the service. Its number has, however, become so small because of its terrible losses in battle as to be hardly equal to a regiment. The organization of so good a brigade shonld not be broken up, and to p1-e- vent this, regiments will have to be added to it. The new regiments would soon become effective, in serving with old and tried troops from the same State; and, on the whole, I deem that it would be to the veiy best interests of the service that my request be complied with. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 44. September 30, 1864. 1. In compliance with instructions from the lieutenant general com- inanding, Brig. Gen. J. TI. Wilson is hereby relieved from duty with the Third Cavalry Division, and will report without delay to Major- General Sherman, commanding Military l~ivision of the Mississippi, as chief of cavalry. * * * * * 3. Brig. Gen. G. A. Custer, now commanding Second Cavalry Division, Departmen~of West Virginia, is relieved from duty with that division, and will at once assume command of the Third Cavalry Division. Col. William H. Powell, SecondVirginia Cavalry, is hereby assigned the coin- mand of the Second Cavalry Division, l)epartment of West Virginia. * * - - * By command of Major-General Sheridan: - C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 219 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 219 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, i\ear Port Buffalo, Va., September 30, 1864. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. I shall leave to-night for the lowQr country. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. ORDERS.] HEAD~WARTERS SIXTH AND NINETEENTH CORPS, September 30, 1864. The conimand will at once move to llarrisonburg, and the two corps resume their former positions there. The Nineteenth Corps will move on the left of the pike, its trains, ambulances, and artillery on the pike. The Sixth Corps on the right of the pike, in two columns, in the follow- ing order: first, Third Division; second, First Division; third, Second Division. The trains, ambulances, and artillery will follow, in the order named, the trains, ambulances, and artillery of the Nineteenth Corps. Brigadier-General Get.ty, commanding Second Division, Sixth Corps, will detail a force sufficient for rear guard and for the protection of the trains. Lieutenant-Colonel French, corps officer of the day, will with- draw the pickets in time to rejoin their commands for the march; and upon reaching the old camp, division commanders will furnish the & amne details for picket as before, which will be posted under the super- vision of Lieutenant-Colonel French. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND INFANTRY DIVISION, ARMY OF WEST VIRGINIA, Harrisonburg, Va., September 30, 1864. Capt. P. G. BIER Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to forward the following list of non-com- missioned officers and privates who have been reported to me as having particularly distinguished themselves during the late engagements: Sergt. Maj. Albert 13. Logan, Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volun- teer Infantry, for gallant and meritorious conduct in capturing ~ 1)iece of artillery in the fortifications at Winchester, September 19, 1864, he being the first man to reach tbe gun. Corpl. John H. Duke, color bearer Thirteenth Regiment West Vir- ginia Volunteer Infantry, as being the first in the second line of fortifi- cations at Fishers Hill, September 22, mounting a cannon and waving his colors in encouragement. Sergt. Vincent Hayes, Company E, Thirteenth Regiment West Vir- ginia Volumiteer Infantry, was wounded in capturing a color. First Sergt. Allen Burnett, Comnpany 13, Fourteenth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, captured one caisson at Fishers Hill, September 22, 1864 Page 220 220 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. First Sergt. James B. Foyle, Company I, Fourteenth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Infantry, captured one piece of artillery at Fishers Hill, September 22. Corpi. Thomas H. Parker, Company K, Fourteenth Regiment West Virginia Volunteer Iiifa.ntry, captured one piece of artillery, two horses, and five prisoners at Fishers Hill, September 22, 1864. Private James S. Hall, Company I, Ninety-first Regiment Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry, demanded the surrender of nine armed men ihey immediately surrendered and gave up their arms to him alone. Private George W. Kemper, Company B, and Private Henry Dillen- ger, Company K, Ninety-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as two of six men who captured fifty-seven prisoners at Fishers Hill, September 22. The commanding officers of the Ninth and Fifth Virginia and Thirty- sixth and Thirty-fourth Ohio did not choose to discriminate where the conduct of all was so praiseworthy. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. HAYES? Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, llarrisonburg, Va., September 30, 1864. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: General Custers division has been ordered in, to go back on the road, so you will take care of the left. This afternoon a brigade of the Third Division will be at Mount Crawford, and the other bri- gades, Third Division, will remain at Bridgewater. General Wilson has been ordered to General Sherman, and I shall send Custer to the Third Division. General Sheridan tells me you have a regiment at Swift Run Gap, and he wants a strong party sent over the mountain to get what information they can. He thinks they may go as far as Stanardsville. I send some men for your division. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TORBERT, Breret Major- General and Chief of Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, & ptember 30, 1864. Captain DANA, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division Cavalry: I have the honor to report that my command destroyed 9 large mills and about 100 barns yesterdaythe mills were filled with flour and wheat; the barns were filled with threshed wheat and hay. I also destroyed a large number of stacks of hay and grain found standing in the fields. I brought away about 150 head of beef-cattle, or perhaps nearly 200 head; also about 500 head of sheep. No dwelling houses were destroyed or interfered with. Very respectfully, G. A. CUSTER, Brigadier- General Commanding Second Division Page 221 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDEIWE, ETC.UNION. 221 WAR DEPARTMENT, September 30, 18649 p. m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, ffarper~s Ferry: Do you hear anything about Sheridan ~ What is yonr latest infor- mation ~ EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARPERS FERRY, September 30, 1864. Hon. E. i\J. STANTON, Secretary of War: II have nothing from Sheridan later than telegraphed at Mount Craw- ford, six miles from llarrisonburg. Two refugees came from Harrisou- burg yesterday, confirming Sheridans moving in directidn of Staunton. I have promptly sent forward all telegrams from War Office for him, but no return of my messengers from beyond New Market. You may rely that I shall advise you instantly of any information received. Respectfully, JOhN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 30, 18644.45 p.m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, ffarper~s Ferry: You are assigned, by direction of the President, to the command of the District of Harpers Ferry, including Martiusburg and the lower Shenandoah Valley, so that all the forces there can operate together. Send copy of this to General Neill. General Wallace has been directed to send you another regiment. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. (Copy forwarded to General Neill.) HARPERS FERRY, September 30, 1864. Colonel HOFFMAN, Comatissary- General of Prisoners: Colonel Edwards, commanding at Winchester, since you were here has sent forward 900 prisoners. He states there are in addition about 730 wounded officers and men, making the aggregate of prisoners 3,250. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. MIL. DIST. o~ HARPERS FERRY, No. 17. Harpers Ferry, Va., September 30, 1864. By direction of the President of the United States, and under orders from Major-General Halleck, Chief of Staff, U. S. Army, 1 hereby assum Page 222 222 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHiP. LV. command of the Military District of Harpers Ferry, including Mar- tinsburg and the lower Shenandoah Valley. All existing orders will remain in force until otherwise ordered. JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURc~. W. VA., & pteutber 30, 1864. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, (Received 12.20 ~. in.) Secretary of War: About 300 or 400 guerrillas are operating between Winchester and Bunker Hill. I do not consider my post safe nnless I have stronger force to protect the large amount of Government property rapidly accumulating here. I want one regiment of cavalry to operate against these guerrillas. I have no cavalry under my command. I want one or two regiments of infantry. T. H. NEILII1, Brigadier- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 30 18 General NEILL, 642.50 ~ m. illartinsbnrg: Your telegram has been referred to General Halleck to know what troops, if any, can be sent you. I know of none. You will communi- cate directly with him on whatever relates to your command. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MARTINSBURG, September 30, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding: Captain Shaw, engineer officer, now engaged at North Mountain building block-houses for defense of the road, reports there are no troops at Cherry Run, Back Creek bridge, and North Mountain. I deem it of essential importance to the safety of the railroad, and to cover Captain Shaws working parties, that those three points should be guarded. As it is within your command, I have sent this informa- tion to you. T. H. YEILL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MARTINSBUEQT~ September 30, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: The regiment you ordered here has not arrived. When (lid it start~ I want it very much. T. H. NEILL, Brigadier- General Page 223 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223 hEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, W. Va., September 30, 1864. Colonel EDWARDS, Corn man diu~1 Post Win chester, Va.: I niclose you copy of General Orders, No. 17.* Please, by return courier, advise me of the strength of your command, the number of wounde(l at your post, the number of rebel prisoners, and such other Ihets as will fully possess me of the condition of affairs at Wilichester. The courier carries dispatches for General Sheridan, which you will forward with all dispatch. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. GRAFTON, W. VA., September 30, 1864. (Received 5.10 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Arrived here at 1 a. in. Found all quiet. I think the road safe. The militia have been called out by the Governor, and are responding nobly. As soon as I can concentrate sufficient force, I will move on the enemy, and leave the militia to guard the railroad and public property. Nothing from Beverly. B. F. KELLEY, Breret Major- General. CUMBERLAND, MD., September 30, 1864. Brevet Major-General KELLEY, Grafton or Clarksbnrg, IY. Va.: Captain Ellicott, of General DuffiOs command, has returned from the scout on which you sent him yesterday. He came up with part of MeNeills command at Washingtons Ford yesterday afternoon, attacked him, killed 1 rebel and wounded another, and took 2 prisoners. Last night MeNeill attacked Captain E. near Widow Reeses, forcing him to fall back. He arrived here at 11 this a. in., without any loss. HENRY J. JOHNSON, Lieutenant, die. CLARKSBURG, W. VA., September 30, 1864. Bvt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Grctfton: Hagans fell back last evening eight miles. Toward midnight he again entered Buckhannon, and at 3 oclock fell back for safety four miles, and returned again at 8 oclock this morning. He now thinks the enemy is en route toward Bulltown. Sent operator to Weston yester- day. All quiet there this morning. I will come and see you by train. N. WILKINSON, Colonel. See p. 221 Page 224 224 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. BUCKHAKNON. W. VA., September 30, 1864. Col. N. WILKINSON, Commanding, Clarksburg, W. Va.: Reliable Union men from Slab Camp state that there are no rebels in that county. I can hear nothing more of them in any direction. My scouts are on the alert. Much l)roperty was carried off. Their conduct was such as characterizes nothing but robbers. They robbed stores and private houses, carrying off the clothing of men, women, and little children, in some cases compelling women to take off their shoes and stockings. Their horses were loaded down with stolen property. Many of the citizens were robbed of their money; rebel and Union fared alike. The loss to this county cannot be less than $40,000. Their entire con- duct was of the most shameful character. I hope we may be better prepared for them next time. II. H. HAGAKS, Captain, Commanding. GRAFTON, September 30, 1864. Colonel VOLTART: I am here this a. un., and concentrating a force to move on enemy as soon as l)ossible. What is your condition ~ Is there any eiiemy in your front toward iluttonsyille ~ if you deem it advisable and proper, you may fall back on this place, or on the railroad at some point east of this. If you find the Philippi road occupied by the enemy you can retire via New Interest and Saint George to Ilowlesburg, but if the way is clear you can retire via Philippi. But I do not wish you to evacuate unless you deem it absolutely necessary for the safety of your command. Let me hear from you by this courier. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Ali~or- Genera~. GRAFTON, September 30, 186410 a. m. Brigadier.General SULLIVAN, Charleston: Arrived here at 1 a. m. The enemy are reported falling back from Buckhannon. The demonstration in this direction may be a feint to cover a movement against you. I will move on the enemy as soon as I can concentrate sufficient force. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CHARLESTON, W. VA., September 30, 1864. Lient. Col. C. II. POTTER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Columbus, Ohio: I am expecting to hear of General EcLiols advance on Charleston at any moment. When last heard from he was at Weston, with intentions of moving this way. I would like the gun-boat at Galhipolis to be sent up the river; and also instructions given to Colonel Thomas, One hun- dred and ninety-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, in case the line should be cut, and I not be able to give him orders, that he will march his regi- ment to this place if he should hear of the advance of the rebels. JER. C. SULLIVAN, Brigadier- General Page 225 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 225 HEADQUARTERS NORTHERN DEPARTMENT, Columbus, Ohio, September 30, 18641.15 p.m. Colonel THOMAS, Commc(nding, Ga ilipolis, Ohio If the telegraph line is cut between you and General Sullivan, at. Charleston, you will move with your regiment toward Charleston. Un- less you hear of rebels threatening Gallipolis, you will send the gun- boats up the Kaiiawlia River, and keel) these headquarters well advised. By command of Major- General Heintzelman: C. H. POTTEI~, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS NoRIiwRN DEPARTMENT, Columbus, Ohio, September 30, 18641.15 p. rn. Colonel THOMAS, Commanding, Gallipolis, Ohio If the troops ordered to Grafton have iot left, you need not send them. Telegraph immediately whether they have left or not. C. II. POTTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., September 30, 1864. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore: The Secretary of War directs that you send another regiment to General Stevenson at Harpers Ferry. II. W. IIALLECK, 3f~or- General and Chief of Staff. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 325. * Washington, September 30, 1864. * * * * * * 71. Brig. Gen. Fitz Henry Warren, U. S. Volunteers, having com- l)leted the duties to which he was assigned by Special Orders, No. 276, August 20, 1864, from this office, will report in person without delay, to time commanding general Department of the East, for assignment to such duty as he is able to perform. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York City, September 30, 1864. Hon. E. lxi. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: In pursuance of your instructions of the 20th instant, I left New York on the ensuing morning and repaired to the city of I )etroit, stop- ping on my way at Buffalo, and on my return at the Bass Islands, 15 R RYOL XLIII7 PT I Page 226 22 (~ OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. KcI1v~ Island, and Sandusky, to investigate the seizure of the steamer Plillo Parsons and the steamer Island Queen, and the attempted destruction of both, by a rebel force organized in Canada, and I have now the honor to make the following report: Ou Saturday, the 17th of Sel)tenlber, instant, Licut. Col. B. H. lull, acting assistant provost-rn arshal- general of Michigan, was advised by a person from Cana(la that a party was to be sent from Windsor, on the Canadian side of the Detroit River, opposite l)etroit, by Jacob Thompson, who was Secretary of the Interior under President Budi- anian, to capture the armed steamer Michigan at Sandusky. Reports ~ projected euterprises by rebel refugees in Canada to commit depreda- tions on the lake coasts of the United States have been rife for more than a year, and the information thus communicated was not frilly credited, though the provost marshal immediately sent a message by te1e~raph to Capt. J. C. Carter, the commander of the Michigan, put- tnt o hun on his guard. On receiving more full and detailed information tie following day, Captain Carter was again advised of the intention to ~ iptmne his vessel, and w-as also warned that his crew had been tam- ed ~ itli by a rebel agent in Sandusky named Cole, who was prolnl)tly irrested The provost-marshal thought it advisable to let the enter- p~ e 1)ioeeed in order that the party might be captured and punished, ni4e~rd of arming the steamer Parsons, which the same parties intended to suze, and thus giving them notice that tire plot was (liscovered. All these facts are more particularly disclosed in the report of Lieuten- ant-Colonel Hill, and the accompanying papers marked A 1 to A 5. On Sunday morning, 18th of September, a man came on board the Philo Pa.rsons, while lying at the dock in I)etroit, and requested the clerk, Mr. Walter 0. Ashley, who is part owner of the Parsons, to call at Sandwich, on the Canada shore, three miles below Detroit, to receive him and a party of friends who wished to go to Kellys Island, about eleven miles from Sandrmsky, alleging that one of them was lame and could not well cross the fer-ry. This mnau is described by several witnesses as being thick-set, about. medium height, and apparently an Englishman or Scoteliman, and ha(l been frequently sceit by the clerk at the steamner. lie left Detroit the m~ext morning (Monday, 19th of September) at S oclock, with about forty passengers. The person reterred immuediateiv afterwmrd and a to al)peared , t his request the stealner called at Sandwich, where his friemids, thur in number, came on board. At MaIden, on the Canada side, where the steamer also stopIJed, about twenty miles below i)etm-oit and near the point where the Detroit River empties into the lake, about twenty more muen came oim board. TIme nuniber, not being unusmumi, excited rio suspiciomi. The only baggage of the party was an old-IVishiommed tm-rink tied with rope, atter\vard ascertained to contain revolvers and large hatchets, or hamid axes. Time steamer continued on her course and maa(le her imsmral land- ings at North Bass, Middle B ass, and South Bass Islands, the latter being better known as Put-imi-Bay Island. These islands are nearly north of Sandusky and about twenty-eight miles distant. They all belong to the United States, are a part of the State of Ohio, and con- tain about 500 imihabitants. The largest has an area of about 1,400 acres, or a little more than two square umiles. Captain Atwood, the captain of the steamer, left her at Middle Bass, where his firmuily resides. Having muade these lamidimigs the steamer wemit oir her course to Kellys Island, about seven miles farther on, amid mna(ie her usnal landing there. Here four men got on board, all a~)~)arently belomiging to the sanme party, and it has been ascertained that one who was seen among tlmem Page 227 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UN1ON. 227 after the capture of the steamer had been several days on the island visiting the inhabitants and pretending to be an agent for the sale of sewing machines. He was, doubtless, a spy. Shortly after leaving Kellys Island, about 4 oclock in the afternoon, and while she was directly on her course for Sandusky, the Philo Par- sons was seized by the l)arty who had got on board at Sandwich and Maiden, and was headed to the eastward for nearly an hour, when she was turned back to Middle Bass Island for fuel, the leader of the party having ascertained from the mate and engineer that there was not enough to run her many hours. Sooii after reaching Middle Bass Island, and while taking in wood, the steamer Island Queen, which performs daily trips from the Bass Islands to Sandusky and back, came alongside an(I was immediately seized. The engineer of the Island Queen, without giving any provocation, was shot in the face. The ball entered the cheek and passed out through the ear, fortunately inflicting only a flesh wound. One person was cut in the head with a hatchet, and bled profusely. Several other persons were knocked down, and a large number were strnck with the butt cud of pistols and with hatchets. The testimony shows that sonic ten or a dozen shots were fired at different times. The passengers on both boats were landed at Middle Bass, with a part of their luggage. After getting a supply of fuel the I~hilo Parsons ran out into the lake, towing the Island Queen. At a distance of about five miles, according to one statement, and at a lesser distance according to others, the Islan(1 Qneen was scuttled, by cutting her sul)ply pipe, and was sent adrift. Before filling she fortu- mately drifted on a shoal, and was got off a few days afterward without serions injury to the vessel. She had been previously plundered. The Philo Parsons then stood for Sandusky Harbor. It was between S and 9 oclock in the evening. For some unexl)laine(l reason, after approaching the harbor an(1 after consultation between the leader ot the marauders and his mcmi, she was turned about and steered for Maiden, where she arrived betweemi 4 and 3 oclock on Tuesday morn- ing, the 20th. A frw miles above Maiden a yawl-boat load of plmimm(ler was sent ashore on the Canadian side of the i)etroit River. At Fight- ing Island. some six miles above, the crews of both steamimers were landed. The steamer arrived at Sandwich about S oclock the same milorimimug, and a piammoforte beloiiging to her, a number of trmmks, and time cabimm furniture were })ut ashore at the dock, where a custom-house officer almost immediately ap~)eare(i. SIte was then scuttled, by cuttimug her injection pipes, and cast oTt. One of time witumesses testifies that the lea(her of time party intended to burn her, but was forbiddeim by sonic person on the dock froun buritin o her there. Combustibles had been prepared. and were exhibited to mue on board on Mon(lay, the 26th. The steamimer partially filled, but was taken posSeS5ion of a few hmonrs after- ward by the mate, who had come up in a small steamer (the 1~earl), from Ecorse, opposite Fighting Island aimd on our side of the Detroit River, and had her towed to Detroit. Both steauners were repaired and resumed their trips, the Parsons on Saturday, the 24th, and time Ishamud Queemi on Monday. the 26th. The cirenunstamuces above narrated arc gi yen niore in detail in the affi- davits marked B 1 to 7. The Philo Parsons is a side-wheel steamer of 222 tons, built in 1561, and is worth about ~16,000. She is owumed principally by Mr. Fox, who resides on North Bass Island. She runs regularly between Detroit amid Samidusky. leaving the former place at S. a. mu. Momudays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and the latter at the same hour on Tuesdays, Thursdays Page 228 228 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. anti Saturdays. She stopped regularly at Maiden, ou the Canada shore, an(1 at Sandwich, ou the same shore, when signaled. Her other regular stopping places were the three Bass Islands and Kellys Island, all within twenty miles of Sandusky. I went in her from Detroit to San- dnsky on Monday, 26th of September. She made her usual landings except Maiden, where she has ceased stopping since her capture. The (larnages from injuries to the vessel and cargo are estimated at $6,000, a low estimate, as she has been running almost without passengers since iter capture. The Island Queen is a side-wheel steamer of 173 tons, and valued at ~l2,000. She is owned on Kellys Island. She runs regularly from the Bass Islands to Sandusky every morning, stopping at Kellys Island, and returns to the Bass Islands every afternoon. Her damages we esti- mated at $3,000. In both cases the estimate of damages is founded on known injuries and losses. There was on both steamers freight Which was destroyed or carried away, the value of which is not ascertained. I now proceed to the narration of other circumstances not anthem ticated by accompanying affidavits, but stated on the most reliable information. After the Philo Parsons was scuttled, and the furniture and plundered property was placed on the dock, two of the party were arrested and taken before two of Her Britannic Majestys justices of the peace at Sandwich, and after being detained two hours or more were discharged. The fact was made known to Mr. Macdonell, the Crown attorney of Essex County, residing at Windsor, and the conduct of the magistrates was spoken of by him in decided terms of disapprobation, in an interview with me at Detroit. The steamer had been lying at the dock more than two hours before the piano and some of the plundered property had been seized by the custom-house officers for an alleged violation of the revenue laws, and it was known to the magistrates that the steamer belonged to citizens of the United States, that she had been plundered and scuttled at the dock, and yet two of the perpetra- tors of these outrages, constituting a far more criminal violation of the laws of Great Britain than an infraction of her revenue regulations, were suffered to go at large instead of being detained until the extent of their crimes could be ascertained. The failure to perform a duty so manifestly plain can hardly be accounted for by the supposition of gross ignorance, but rather of collusion with the guilty parties. This doubt of the good faith of these magistrates is confirmed by the fact that one of the custom-house officials admitted to Mr. Fox the owiier of the Philo Parsons, that a basket containing revolvers had been landed from the steamer and given up to the marauders, who claimed them as their property. This fact is shown by Appendix D. The piano and other plundered property belonging to the steamer were restored to Mr. Fox, the owner, on application to the Canadian authorities. It is proper to state here that while at Detroit the Crown attorney, Mr. Macdonell, called on inc several times and expressed a strong desire to be instrumental in securing the guilty parties. He also assured me that the same earnest wish to identify and bring them to punishment was shared by th~ solicitor-general, who had visited Windsor, previous to my arrival at Detroit, with a view to ascertain the facts and to take proper steps for the purpose. A letter from Mr. Macdonell to the U. S. district attorney at I)etroit is annexed, and marked C. This letter shows that he is acting under instructions from the government at Quebec to spare no pains in bringing the l)arties implicated to punishment. There is a feature in this transaction which deserves the special attention of the Goverument. From informatio Page 229 Ouar. LY.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 229 communicated to me while at Detroit, there is no doubt that Mr. Jacob Thompson Secretary of the Interior nder Mr. Buchanan, was in the vicinity of Sandwich, staying with Colonel Steele, a Southerner and a violent secessionist, and that the pfratical expedition was set on foot tinder his auspices and by the aid of means contributed by him. He was at Colonel Steele7s house as late as Saturday, the 17th of S~,p- tember. His complicity with the transaction can be ascertained and proved, if the measure recommended in my confidential letter of the 24th instant is adopted. It can be made to appear that Mr. Thompson, am authorized agent of the insurgent authorities at Richmond, is resid- ing in Canada, under British protection, and was engaged in at least one instance in setting on foot military enterprises t the United States, and in another in organizing a piratical tion against the property of its citizens. I callqd the attention of Mr. Macdonell to this ho explaining to him the relation in which Mr. Thompson stands to of the rebellion, and independently of the facts disclosed, making it manifest that he could not be in Canada, and especially on the Detroit River, where the water boundary between the United States and Canada is less than a mile wide, for any other than purposes of misehiet The objects of the expedition can only be gathered from the declara- tions of the leaders. They were declared to be the release of the pris- otters on Johnsons Island and the capture of the Michigan. The party did not exceed thirty in number while there was a large force on John- sons Island and from 100 to ~men on board the Michigan. It is, therefore, quite dear that ncither of the objects said to have been in view could have been accomplished without the co-operation of an armed force in Sandusky. Whether any such co-operation was arranged can only be ascertained through the confessions of Cole, referred to in Appendix A 1 to A 5, or through a searching judicial investigation. Cole, who was leading an infamous life at Sandusky, with means unquestionably furnished by the rebel authorities, is now in custody at Fort Johnson, and the only question in regard to him is whethei he should be tried and executed as a spy, or whether he should be par- doned on making a full disclosure of the plot with which he was con- netted, and the identification of his accomplices. On arriving at Sandusky, I found Major-General Hitehcock in com- munication with the commanding officer at Johnsons Island and the commander of the Michigan, and I deemed it unnecessary to enter into an investigation which had been carried by them as far nit could be without the intervention of a co with power to compel the attend- ance of witnesses. The result of the investigation discloses, in brie4 the following principalfacts: 1. An armed force was organized at Windsor2 Canada, andits vicinity, for hostile purposes, to be executed in the Umted States. 2. The party captured and took forcible possession of two steamers in the waters of the United States. 3. One of the captured steamers was scuttled in the waters of the United States, and the other in British waters and at a British doeL 4. The engineer of one of the steamers was shot, though not fatally, and several others were wounded. 5. Two of the parties to these outrages were rested and taken before two British magistrates at Sandwich, the place where one of the steamers was plundered and scuttled, and were discharged without a formal examination Page 230 280 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHa LY. - 6. The steamer and plundered property were promptly restored by the Canadian authorities. 7. These authorities (with the exception of the two magistrates referred to) have expressed an ernest desire to secure the guiltyparties and bring them to punishment, and are believed to be acting in goot faith to accomplish the object, under instructions from theAovernment at Quebec. The action of the U. S. district attorney at etroit pit- vious to my arrival is shown in Exhibit E. I avail myself of the refer- enceto his proceedings to acknowledge myindebtedness to his assistant, Mr. H. B. Brown, Lieutenant-Colonel Hill, actinq assistant provost- marshal-general, and H. F!. Emmons, esq., of Detroit, for their valuable assistance to me in pursuing the investigation. The parties concerned in this piratical enterprise (for such it is prima fade) have committed within our jurisdiction crimes for which we have a right, under the treaty of the 9th of August, 1842, between the United States and Great Britain (commonly called the Ashburton treaty) to demand their delivery. I assume the Government will either treaL it, as it is in all its essential features, as an act of piracy, or as a robbery, or as an assault with an intent to murder and that a formal demand will be made on the Government of Great i3ritain for the surrender of the guilty parties under the tenth article of the treaty. Piracy as con- templated by this article is the crime of piracy when committed within our jurisdiction, and there may be a technical difficulty in establishing it in this case. By the eighth section of the act of Congress of the 30th of April, 1790, the crime must be committed out of the jurisdiction of any particular State. The act of Congress of 15th of June, 1836, sec- don 1, defines the northern boundary of the State of Ohio to be the boundary line between the United States and the Province of Canada. This line runs north of the Bass Islands, leaving them within the State of Ohio. They constitute onepf the organised counties of the State. The Island Queen was captured at the dock at Middle Bass Island and the Philo Parsons between Kellys Island and the main shore of Ohio, several miles farther within the northern boundary line. The Supreme Court of the United States (12th How 458) declares the lakes to be inland seas, subject to admiraltyjurisdietzon. The British courts, it is understood, do not so hold them. if crimes corn- mitted on these lakes were regarded by the judicial tribunals of both countries as committed on the high seas, this being an act of privacy under the law of nations, the perpetrators would be common enemies, triable by the courts of both countries and not subject to extradition under the treaty of 1842. If committed within the jurisdiction of a State it would not constitute the crime of piracy as defined by the act of Congress, audit would be very likely to be considered by the British courts as coming within the proviso of the tenth section of the treaty that the delivery of the persons charged with certain speclic crimes shall only be done on such evidence of criminality as, according to the laws of the place where the fugitive or person so charged shall be found, would justify his apprehension and commitment for trial if the crime or offense lied there been committed.- In other words, it must be a crime or offense under the laws of Great Britain. I make these suggestions in regard to a demand for the surrender of the guilty par- ties as pirates for the consideration of the law officer of the Govern-. ment. Should they be regarded as having such fore. as to make the surrender of the criminals doubtful under the clause of piracy, it is not supposed that there will be any hesitation on the part otthe British authorities in surrendering them on a charge of robbery, or assaul Page 231 (HAl. LY.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 231 with intent to murder, both these crimes being specified by the treaty, and both being equally clear under the laws of either country. That the circumstances under which the two steamers were captured and plundered, and one of the engineers shot, within our jurisdiction are sufficient to charge the parties concerned with either crime, there can not be the slightest doubt, or tha.t the same circumstances would ju5tify the apprehension of the perpetrators and their commitment for trial if they had taken place within the jurisdiction of Great Britain, thus making the duty of extradition unquestionable. For whichever ot the last two crimes the Government shall decide to demand the surrender, the demand may properly be made for all the criminals. All were engaged in the robbery, and, if any one of the party fired on one of the crew with the intention of killing him, all are guilty, and the demand may be made for all. A careful examination of these distinctions is the more important, as the criminals, if apprehended, will doubtless resist the surrender in the Canadian courts, and will be aided by the ablest counsel money can l)1ocllre. The expedition having been undertaken and executed with ihe knowledge, sanction, and aid of agents of the authorities at Rich- inond. they will spare no expense to prevent the conviction of the par- ties concerued in it in the Canadian courts, should they be prosecuted for a violation of the laws of Canada or their delivery for trial in the courts of the United States. If the enterprise is regarded as piratical and the work of unauthorized individuals, the British authorities will have discharged their duty when they shall have exhausted every effort to detect the perpetrators of the ontrage and bring them to punishment. But it. is more than probable, should any of them be arrested, that the attempt will be made to show, with a view to prevent their delivery, that the expedition was organized and executed under the direction of individuals holding commissions from the Confederate authorities at Richmond, and, therefore, an act of war. The leader and one of his subordinates declared that they were Confederate officers. Under this aspect the question would assume an international character of the highest importance and delicacy. It would present the case of a band of rebels arming and organizing on British territory, sallying forth on a predatory enterprise against the United States, capturiag two steam- ers within our jurisdiction, returning with one of them to a British port, plundering her and landing their plunder, and then scuttling her in the presence of at least one Government official; ~and ahthough the steamer was well knowit to belong to citizens of the Uuiited States, two of the cruninal parties after being arrested and brought before two magistrates of the place, who must have been cognizant of the princi- pal facts, were dhischarged without any formal examination. If it be conceded that the expedition was organized by rebel officers, and is to be rewarded as an act of war, a grosser violation of British territory and of the neutral character in which Great Britain has assumed to stand in this donmestic conflict cannot well be conceived, and she may be properly called on to take such precautionary measures as to guard of the outra(~e N against a repetition . othing can be clearer than her duty, under the laws which govern the conduct of neutral nations in time of war, to prevent the organization within her territory of expedi- tions against our citizens and property, to refuse a shelter to our cue- umies while preparing to attack us, or an asylum when returning with their booty for the purpose of remaining to watch the opportunity for hrther depredations Page 232 232 OPERATIONS iN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. This view of the sui~ject will doubtless be acquiesced in by the British ({overrnnent. The Iro1i~pt restoration of the captured property, and the earnest desire exl)ressed by the Canadian uthorities to identify and bring to l)unishment the guilty parties, warrant the assurance that all reasonable measures will be adopted to maintain their neutrality. The unusual congregation of large un inbers of persons on the frontier with- out any visible occupation, persons known to belong to the insurgent States, furnishes in itself evidence of hostile purposes, and the Canadian authorities owe it to themselves and to the duties of neutrality ta take care that their purposes do not ripen into open acts of aggression. May we iiot, moreover, demand that these emissaries of the rebel autliorities at Itichunond shall be sent out ot Canada, or, at all events, that they shall iiot be permitted to hang about the frontier, and especially the Detroit and other rivers, which are narrow boundaries between the United States and Great Britain, and where predatory enterprises can readily he set on foot against us? Unless some such efficient measures are taken to prevent a violation of the Canadian territory by the insur- gents, no matter whether their enterprises be piratical or assumed to be acts of war, 1 am satisfied that peace between the United States and Great Britain cannot be much longer preserved, and that collisions be- tween the inhabitants of the frontier towns will take I)lace in spite of any effort on the part of the Government to prevent them. That it is one of the chief purposes of the insurgents to advance their own cause by bringing about a rupture between the two countries through their agents and officers iu Canada, there can be uo doubt. There has been from the commencement of the rebellion a strong reeling ofdissatisfaction on the part of our citizens arising out of the recognition~ of the insurgents as belligerents. It has been converted into a feeling of exasperation by the failure of Great Britain to prevent the arming in her ports of insurgent cruisers by which millions of our property have been destroyed on the ocean, and if, after thus trying our patience, hostile expeditions are organized on her frontiers to at- tack us, she cannot fail to see that it may lead to the most serious con- sequences. Even if the Government shall from considerations arising out of the distracted condition of the country (leem it wise to postpone a vigorous assertion of our right to redress till we are better prepared to enforce it, those who are injured in their property and outraged in their persons will be less considerate, and will be very likely to retaliate by incursions into the Canadian territory in pursuit of the depredators; and when there they will still be more likely to indemnify thenmselves by taking any property they may find without stopping to inquire whetlmer it belongs to those who have injured them or those who have given the wrongdoers shelter and protection. I am disposed to press these considerations the more earnestly because I should regard a dis- turbance of our friendly relations with Great Britain at any time, an(l especially at the present, as an unmixed calamity, and should the strong representations which the occasion calls for fail to produce their proper effect and insure us against a piedatory war, where we have a right to demand security and peace, I recommend that a proper naval and mili- tary force be organized on those portions of our frontier, not only for the purpose of preventing such unauthorized acts of retaliation on the part of our own citizens, but that we may, unless effectual measures be taken for arresting hostile incursions within our jurisdiction, be prepared to pursue the depredators into the Canadian territory in the heat of th Page 233 CHAT. IA. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 233 undertal~iiig (dam frrrit opus), as we have a perfect right to do under the law of nations, and take into our own hands the redress for which we (ialnlot count on the (~oo(l thith and active efforts of our neighbors. I have the honor to l)e. very resi )ectfnhly, yours, JOHN A. TAX, Major- General. I I1]closllres.] Al. Acm. AssT. I ~R OVOST-MARSJTAL- GENERALS OFFICE, .~ & ?ptember 21 iSbi I)etroit JlLich Maj. C. 11. POTTER, ASS ista at Ad) itta nt-General SIR: I have the honor to inform you that on Saturday night last, the 1tl~ instant, a l)clson ealle(1 npoii inc at my hotel and introduced hum self to ilie as having been for some years a rebel soldier, and recently a refugee in Canada. lIe iiiforined me that some of the officers and men of the IT. S. Steamer Michigan had beeii talupere(l with, and that - it was the intentioii ot the rebel agent in Windsor, Jacob Thompson, late Secretary of tile interior nuder President Buchanans administra- tioli. to send a party fYoin Y\iiidsor who with tile assistance of the , , otl7leers and mcii, would endeavor to get possession of the steamer. He saul he had been al)l)roaehled to fhrni one of the ~)aIty, and had con- sented to (10 so; aiul that he would receive more l)aiticular inform ition on the next morning, when the party would leave for Maiden. He said that with the possession of the steamer Michigan they would have can- trol of the lakes for a couple of months, anti would levy contrii)utions on all the lake cities; and had oftered very large inducements to the officers and men of that steamer. lie stated that after obtaining full iiistriictions on Sumlay morning, he would fail to join the 1)arty, and would see me a~ ain on Sunday evening. rfhe statement of the man and his earnestness made some lmnpression on me, and I telegraphed to Cal)t. J. C. Carter, the commanding officer of the steamer Michigan, that night. a 11(1 1 inclose a copy, marked 1, and his reply, marked 2. On Sunday evening. time 18th instant, my informnant again crossed the river and saw me. I-Ic reported that he had agreed to Join the party, ail(l had obtained all time information he could but that at the last niomnent he had failed them. He said, that the party was t~ take pas- sage on board tile steamlier Philo Parsomis at Maiden, and would take possession of her before reaching Sandusky; that certain officers and mimen of the steamer Michigan had been tami)ered with by a man naiimed (ole; and that an officer of the steamer named Eddy coul(l miot be bouoht, and that the intention was to drug him and others. Mv immformnant thought that tile captain of the steamer I~hilo Parsons had also beemi bought, and if lie received any hint on tIme subject lie would give information, anti he Iminiscif would be compromised. I went down to the steamer Pimilo Parsons time next morning at 6 oclock and saw hem. She was too sin all to be of ammy danger if taken by the per- sons, an(il, after mature considcratiomm I came to the conclusion that it would be better to let time steamer g~, anti place Captain Carter on his guard in a way that it ~vonld niake an impression omi him, so that time whole party could be taken. (See my telegram, marked 8, and his reply, niarked 4.) These plots ame being comistantly made here. We had the information about this one, aii d the questiomi was whether it would not be better to let it proceeti, anti make aim example in this case, if the imiformation really amoumited to anything Page 234 234 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. LCHAP. LV. On Tuesday, the 20th instant, the Philo Parsons arrived at Sandwich in the possession of some ejobteen meii who had taken passage ou her the day before at Maiden. It seenis that after takiii~ possession of her the piratical T)arty seized an(l sunk a sniall steamer named the Islafl(1 Queen, both occurrences taking place in the waters of the State of Ohio. They then proceeded to within Thur miles ot Sandusky, and not, i)robably, seeing signals that had 1)een agreed upon, or receiving any assistance that was probably expec ted froi ii Saii dii sky, returned to Detroit River an(l proccc(le(I to Sandwich, Canada West, where they pIllll(lered the steamer and cat her pipes to sink her, an(l abaii- doned her. The steamer was, however, recovered l)v her owners in a (lamaged condition, halt full of water aiid bronohit to this side of the river. It seems that my telegram to Captain Carter led to the arrest of Cole, who made some disclosures which caused the arrest of other parties in Sandusky, the particulars of which will l)e doubtless cam- lnllnicate(I by the commanding ofticer there. It was untortunate that Captain Carter did not i)rocCcd to meet the Philo 1~arsons, as the whole party could have been cal)tured; but. there have been so many rumors and reports here of rebel plots that it is hard to (liscrim- mate between those ha~ing some reality and those purely fabrications. In this case had I placed soldiers on board, whioin I could not spare at this time, or deferred in any way the (lei)artilre of the steamer suspi- eions of the conspirators would have been aroused, and the matter deterre(l to a time when we would have had no intimatioii ot it. As the case now stands, the rebel agent in Canada, residing in Sand- wich, Col. Jacob Thompson, has organized an expe(hition in Canada to seize American steamers. Tl e steamers Ph ilo Parsons ai 1(1 Island Queen were seized, and the latter sunk, in American waters, the Philo Parsons plundered while lying in British waters oft the town of Sandwich, an attempt made to sink her, and the persons employed in these acts now residing in Canada, nnder the protection of the British (+overnment. The 17. 5. attorney has addressed a communication to our consul in Windsor, to call upon the authorities to arrest tl~e persons commit- ting these outrages, in anticipation ot a (lemand being made for their dehivey, and affidavits will be sent by him to the Secretary of State; and I had an interview this morning both with hini and Senator How- (ird, and everything is being adopted to place the matter in pro~em legal shialie before the Govermnent and the British authorities. Very respectfully, your obedi ei it servai it, B. H. HILL, Licatena fl t- Colon (ii, I . A~. A rin~i, (vOliUfla fldtflf/ Thstri(t of Michigan. A 2i. DETnOLT, & ~ptember 17, iSGI. Capt. J. C. CARTER: (Care U. S. Steamer Michigan, $andusky.) It is reported to inc that some of the ofticers and men of your steamer have been tampered with, and that a. party of rebel refugees leave Windsor to-morrow with the expectation of getting i)ossession of your steamer. B. II. FULL, Lieutenant-Colonel, V. ~. A rmy, Military Commander Page 235 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 235 A 8 . U. S. STEAMER MICHIGAN, Off Johnsons Island, Sandusky, September 18, 1864. Lieut. Col. B. H. HILL, U. S. Ari~iy, J[ilitarij (Jommander: Thanks for your dispatch. All ready. Cannot l)e true in relation to the officers or mcii. JNO. C. CARTER, Comman(ler, U. S. Navy. A 43. l)ETRoIT, September 19, 1864. C~ J. C. CARTER,TI. S. Navy, LI. S. Steamer iiLichiy((n, Sandasky, Ohio: It sAd the parties will embark to-(lay at Malden on board the Pliilo Parsons, and will seize either that steamer or another running from Kellys Island. Since my last dispatch am again assured that officers and men have been bought l)y a man named Cole; a few men to be introduced ou board under guise of friends of officers; an officer ualae(l Eddy to be dru~ged. Both Commodore Gardner and niyself look upon the matter as serious. B. II. hILL, Lient. Col., U. S. Army, Acti~y A ssjstant Provost-Marshal- General. A 5i. SANDUSKY, September 19, 1864. Col. B. II. HILL: Your dispatch of 19th received. i have Cole and a fair prospect of bagging the party. J. C. CARTER, Commander, U. S. Navy. Bi. Affidavit of James Denison, engineer. STATE OF MICHIGAN, County o Hai~ne, ss: James I)enison~ being duly sworn, (leposeth and saith, that lie is twenty-eight years of age, and is engineer of the steam-boat Philo Par- sons. l)eponent hirther saith, that lie was on board said vessel on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky oii the 19th (lay of September, A. D. 1864; that said steam-boat left the dock at 1)etroit about 8 oclock in the iuorning, with about thirty-five passengers on board. The boat, alter stopping at Sandwich and Maiden, and taking other passengers, put out into Lake Erie for Sandusky. After we left Kellys Island, and about 4 oclock in the afternoon, I was in the firemans room. I heard a noise on the boat and canie out on deck. I theii heard a maii, armed with a revolver, call to Campbell, the wheelman, who was then ascend ing , p and go down in the from the main deck to the upper deck to sto fire-hold. Campbell d~d not stop, arid the man then fired at him, but did not hit him. There were eight or nine others, armed with revolvers, on the main deck, yelling and driving most of the passengers down into the fire-hold. After most of them were driven below they put dow Page 236 2843 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Oar. LV. the hatches and pat a lot of iron on the top. AM the crew of the main deck, except the fireman admysell were driven below. I was ordered to work the engine just as they wanted me to. The boat was then steered out into the lake in a northeg4erly direction. After running about eight or nine miles, the put her about and came back to Middle Bass Island, having previously inquir0d of me if I had wood enough to run seven or eight hours, to which I replied that I had not. They made fast to the dock at Middle Bass Island. I heard them fire five or six shots, but could not tell what they fired at. They then corn menced wooding up, with the assistance of some of the crew, whom they had released from the fire-hold. While so engaged the steamer Island Queen came alongside. I heard themfirin; again shortly after, but did not know till afterward that the engineer was wounded. They then drove ali the passengers on to the Parsons, and put them into the fire-hold with the rest. I heard them then parole some of the ~gers and soldiers on board thatthe would not fight against the Southern Confederacy until exchanged. Besides those they put into the fire-hold, they put a good many including several ladies, ashore. The Parsons then started out with tke Island Queen in tow; and after taking her beyond Ballast Island they seuttled her and she sank. After leaving her we ran beyond Marblehead Light a6out two miles, and then turnedback and ran for Detroit River. A little above Maiden the life-boat was sent ashore, loaded with stuff taken from the boat At Fighting Island, all of the passengers and crew, exceptthree of the latter, were sent ashore In two boat-loads. Thin was about8 oclock in the morning. We then ran up to Sandwich and made fast tothe dock. The then took a piano, three looking-glasses, and an easy chair out of the boat They then cut the izUection pipes and left her tosink, and all came off the boat. They appeared to be under the command of a man they called captain. ~ DEflSON. Subscribed and sworn to this 20th day of September, A. D. 1864, before me. HEKRY B. BROWN yet.,y r..w., wages. County, Ira Bt STATE OP MIOmGAN, County of Wages.,..: Michael Camp~ being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that he in twenty-one years old and wheelman of the steam-boat Philo Parsons. Deponent farther saith, that he was on board said steamer on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky on Monday, September 19,1864, and thatthe following circumstances took place, as nearlyas deponentcan recollect: The boat left the dock at Detroit at 8 a. in., with from twenty-five td thirtypassengersonboard. I saw oneman, whoml afterwardrecoqni~~ed as die ringleader of the band,come over on the ferry-boat from Windsor about half an hour before the Parsonq started. He walked up to me and asked when the boat was to leave. He then disappeated aM re- turned about fifteen minutes before the boat started with mother man, another of the pirates. He then saw the captain and asked hint to stop at Sandwich and Maiden, as there were some more men to get a there. The boat did not generally stop at Sandwich unless there were passengers there. I saw five others get on board at Sandwich. I hear Page 237 ~HAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 237 the man who got on board at Detroit inquire of those who got on board at Sandwich where the rest of them were. One of them replied that they did not come. About fifteen more got on at MaIden. 1 observed nothing suspicions until after dinner. One of the men who came on board at Detroit spoke to me twice during the forenoon, asked me some questions about the course I was steering, the distance to the island, and borrowed my glass to look around with. Just after (linner I ob- served two of them on the pilot-house, two on the wheel-house, and two aft on the hurricane-deck. About 4 oclock, and just after we left Kellys Island, as I was stand- ing in the saloon, I heard a shot, a yell, and then another shot. I then ran onto the main deck, and saw a man run after the fireman with a cocked revolver in his hand, shouting to him to go down the main hatch, or lie would shoot him. The fireman escaped, and the man turne(i to ice and made the same order. I told hini to go to hell, and lie shot at me, the ball passing between my legs as I was ascending from the main to the upper deck. On reaching the upper deck I saw five others with revolvers in their hands driving the passengers forward and detaining them. !fhey then ordered them back to the cabin, commanded them to give up their aims, and searched some of them. From the cabin they were driven down to the main deck and (lown the fire-hold. Iwas driven down with them. Soon one whom they called colonel came and in- quired for the pilot, and I went up. Two of the deck-hands were also ordered up to throw over the cargo of pig-iron. They then asked me if I could fetch her back the same way she came. I told them I could; went to the wheel-house and turned her back. She had been running during the excitement for perhaps half an hour in the same course she was munning wh~n the outbreak occurred. They inquired where I could get wood, amid on my replying that it could be obtained at Middle Bass Island, they ordered me to steer there. We reached there about dark amid laid alongside the wharf. They fired two or three shots there at the owner of the wood and two other men who were standing omi the dock, and refused to go on board when ordered. Some of the deck- hands were released to help imi putting wood on board. The captain of the boat, who was on shore at the island that day, came down when lie heard the shots fired, and was seized and put into the cabin. The steamer Island Queen soomi came alomigside. They made a rush for her at once. She was seized, and the passengers driven on board the Parsons. The Queemi was then taken in tow, and both boats started for Sandusky. About half way between Middle Bass and Kellys Island they let go of the Queen; told me they scuttled her, aiid I saw no more of her. When opposite Marblehead Light I told the one whom they called colonel that it was dangerous to run into Sandusky Bay by night. He told me if I thought I could not get in then not to try it, as lie did not want to get agroumid. I told him the channel was too narrow. He then called his men forward, conversed with them a few mimintes, and then came and told me to head the boat for Malden. They told me that everything they niet on the way up they were going to destroy. They established a regular watch on deck, and I turned the boat toward Malden. We saw but one vessel near to us as we went up; they told me to go alongside of her, and then asked what waters she was in. When I told him she was in British waters, they said they would not touch her. We reached Malden between 4 aiid o in the muorning. About three miles above that place two of the men took one of the Island Queens yawl-boats, filled her with plunder, and wen Page 238 238 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. ashore. They told me to keel) as near as I)ossible to the British shore. They took all their plunder, piled it aft, sei it ashore all the crew and the captain and engineer of the Queen at Fighting Island; and kept on toward Detroit. We stopped at Sandwich made fast to the dock. The rebels pitt ashore their plunder, including l)iano, mirrors, chairs, and trunks and bed clothes. Heard one of them say that if no one else would go he would take the boat across the river and burn her. They would not do this; but took the engineer below and made hint cut the injection pipes for the purpose of sinking the boat. One of them then told me to come over that evening to Windsor, as they were going to have a great spree there. I said probably 1 would, but did not go. The colonel then came to me, remarked that I had been faithful to them, and he would make me a present. lie handed me a half dozen spoons and eight silver forks. Said he had no money. The engineer and I started for Windsor; some of the party were before and some behind us. each with his load of booty. They were all young men, between twenty amid thirty, and all armed with two revolvers aiid an ax. MICHAEL CAMPBELL. Subscribed and sworn to this 23d day of September, A. D. 1864, before inc. hENRY B. BROWN, Aotary Public, Waync County, Mich. B 3. STATE OF MIcHIGAN, County of Wayne, ss: Sylvester F. Atwood, being duly sworn, saith, that he is fifty-eight years of age, a sailor by occupation, and master of the steamer Philo Parsons; was on board on her trip from l)etroit to Sandusky on Mon- day last. Just after we left time (lock time clerk intorme(l me there was a man on board who wante(I me to stop at Sandwich to take on some of his friends there. I saw this maim, and asked him why he did not bring his friends to 1)etroit. lie replied hat one was lame, amid COLtl(I not well cross the ferry, amid remarked it was miot out of may way to stop. I stoppe(I there, saw six or eight persons on the (lock, and should judge four or five itmen camime on board. Omme of them, a yonmmg man, walked lame, but soon recovere(l fromn it. The man wimo spoke to me about stopping at Samidwich was a stoat, thick-set man, about twenty-five years old, a little nn(ler muedinma height wore British clothes, amid was apparently Scotch or Emiglisim. In goimmg dowmm the river he spoke to mae about sto})ping at Aaldeim; sai(I that there womtld be somne men to get omt there; that there was a party goimmg to Kellys Island to fish and have a time. I tonche(l at Maldemi, and I should tlmink twenty macmi got on board, a 11 yomtng macn exccl)t omme, who told mue afterward he was a surgeon. I could not see whether they brought ammything with themn or not, as I was omt the upper deck. I thought most of them appeared to be Southerners or Northern refugees. Nothimig particular occurred to mimy kimowledge going dowmm, except that ten or twelve of them kept constantly omi the upper deck. I left the boat at Middle Bass Island, where I reside. I do so as often as once a week. The boat went on, and I saw nothimig more of her until a little after 7. I (lid not see her comimig imi, bitt a little boy came mint- liming np very much frightened; said that they were shooting there and kihhimmg his father; and said the Parsomis had conic. I immediatel Page 239 Czar. LY.j OOBBE8PONDEKCE, ETO.UNION. 289 started for the dock; saws number of men running about there; went up ad asked them what in hell was up. Three or four pistols were at once pointed at me, ad I was ordered aboard the boat. I rethsed to go, and replied that Iwas captaip of that boat myselt Two of them shoved me onto the plank, and I walked aboard. They followed me to the cabin, ad I saw the crew and passengers sitting there giwded by men with pistols. I asked Mr. Ashley, the clerk, what it all meant; and he replied that the boat was seized bythe rebels, and there was no use resisting. Pretty soon one of them, the oldest ma of the party invited me to sit don beside him; ad on my asking him what it all meant replied that he could not tell me; that he was a surgeon in the Confederate Army; that it was an unpleasant affair to me, but he had his dutY torrform; that I had better take the thing cool, and that I I requested permission to go and see my wi~j pledging my honor that I would return; but he refused. I then ask to see the captain, and he said he would introduce me to him, and that. the captain wished to see me. He said he thought Id get my boat again. About this time I heard the whistle of the Island Queen. I heard the order, as many as could be spared from the cabin, come this way. The Queen came alongside, and a rush was made for her. I soon saw the passengers of the Queen passing on to our boat, under the direction of the rebels, and pm cabin was soon filled with them. This man who came on board at Detroit stood at the door, ordered the passengers to come out three at a time, under guard, and to be put into the hold. Most of the men were sent below in this manner; the women and children, and a few of the men were left in the cabin with me. The commander soon came along, and the surgeon introduced me to 1dm. He said he wished to see me alone. We went forward to my VElOUR. He asked me to pledge my word I would not leave the island in twenty-four hours, unless my boat came back; said he wanted me to go ashore and take charge of them; said he did not want me on board. It was then 8 oclock, ad a bright moonlight. I told him. I wished to take some of my clothes; but he said I need not, as the room would not be disturbed. I gathered up a coat and a few little articles, and went ashore with the ladies. I took my house full, and made them comfortable. I soon after went toward the dock; saw other passengers coining off the boat; and the boats both left in about half a hour the Parsons towing the Queen. I watched them till they passed Ballast Island; and about one and a half or two miles beyond there they parted with the Queen. The Queen soon after drifted out of sight In the conversation with the captain he said he should probably burn the Queen; and that my boat I should get again. They wanted to get rid of the Queen. I begged that the passengers might be sent ashore. [saw the boat pass up again about 1 oclock, nmningvery fast. When I next saw the boat she had been nearly stripped of thruiture; a por- don of it was returned on Saturday night. I should judge there were twenty-five pirates, who came on at Detroit, Sandwich, and Maiden. They were most of them armed with two revolvers, and many of them with hand-axes. S. F. ATWOOD. Subscribed and sworn to this 25th day of September, A. D. 1864, before m& HENRY B. BROWN, NoIsy r.a~u., ~ o..q, 31kb Page 240 240 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND I~A, [CHAP. LY. B4. COUNTY OF WAYNE, AState of Michigan, 88: De Witt C. Nichols, of Middle Bass Island, in the State of Ohio, mate or pilot of the steam-boat Philo Parsons, plying between Detroit and Sandusky, maketh oath and saith, that on Monday, the 19th (lay of September instant, he was on board the said boat, and acting in sai(1 capacity, from about 8 a. m. on sai(1 day, when said boat starte(1 from l)etroit for Sandusky, until the capture of said boat, as hereinafter mentioned. Said boat was stopped and took in passengers as follows: At Sandwich, Canada West, four passengers; at Malden, twenty to twenty-five passengers, with luggage, especially one corded pine box, which seeme(1 heavy; at North Bass, a few passengers, who seemed to belong to that island, where the owner of said boat resides; at Put-in Bay, some passengers; at Middle Bass, at Kellys Island, several pas- sengers, leaving said island at 4 p. m. About three-quarters of a mile, and from fifteen to twenty minutes after leaving Kellys island (de- ponent being then at the pilot-house, on the hurricane-deck, and in charge of the ship, the captain having gone ashore for the night at Middle Bass), and the ship being on her straight course for Sandusky, the said Philo Parsons met and passed the Island Queen, passing at about twenty rods distance; passed her in the usual way, and without any communication or signal, private or otherwise, being exchanged to deponents knowledge. Immediately after ~)assing her, and deponent being still at the pilot-house, he was accosted by one of the passengers a man about five feet eight or ten inches high, fair complexion, brown hair, no side whiskers or mustache, wearing Kossuth hat, and appar- ently thirty years of age, who appeared afterward to l)e the chief of the party who seized said boat as hereinafter mentioned. He pre~ sented himself suddenly before deponent, an(l asked, Are you captain of this boat i? To which deponent replied, No, sir; I am mate. He then asked, You have charge of her at present, have you not0? I)e- l)onent replied, Yes, sir. He then said, Will you stel) i)ack here for a minute? I want to talk to you. I)eponent then walked aft with him to near the smokestack, on the hurricane-deck. lie then said: I am a Confederate officer. There are thirty of ns, well armed. I seize this boat, and take you as a prisoner. You must pilot the boat as I direct you, and~~~pulling a revolver out of his l)oeket and showing it to (Ic- ponent here are the tools to make you. Run (lown and lie off the harbormeaning the harbor of Sandusky, then about twelve miles distant. Deponent then sat down on top of the l)ilot-hollse, an armed man being placed beside him by the said chiefwho seemed to go by the name of Captain Bellto keep guard oVer deponent. The said boat was then kept by said Bells directions a little to the east of the true course for Sandusky, and run so for about eight miles, until a good view into the harbor at about eight miles distant from the bar, near Cedar Point, was obtained. It was then about 5 p. in., and the U. S. vessel Michigan was plainlyvisible, and many questions were asked of depoi ient by said guard in relation to said Michigan and her position within the harbor. After having examined the harbor thus, said Bell ascertained by inquiry from deponent that there was not fuel enongh to take the boat very far, and that it was not usual to have more on board tha Page 241 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241 enough to run the boat from the Bass Islands to Bandusky and back. Thereupon, and after some conversation among themselves, they ordered the wheelman to turn back for wood, and they accordingly reached the wooding station at Middle Bass between 7 and 8p. in., and did not transmit orders to the wheelman through deponent after having so put about but gave 1dm direct orders, permitting deponent to remain in the cabin until after the seizure of the Island Queen, as hereinafter mentioned. About half an hour after reaching said wood- ing station, the Island Queen came alongside to. land freight and pas- sengers, and was boarded by said Belis party, and her passengers, except the women and chfldrexa, put don into the hold of theParsons. But before leaving said station, all except the captain, clerk, and engineer of the Island Queen, deponent, the wheelman, and some others of the crew of the Parsons, were allowed to qo on shore on engaging nottospeakofwhathadoccnrredforacertainlengthoftime. After leaving Middle Bass the second time, and having the Island Queen in tow the shaped a course for Sandusky, and when between Ballast Island and Kellys Island they cut off the Island Queen, and said they had cut her pipes, sothat she would sink. Immediately after this, all said persons excepted above, except the engineer and wheelman of the Parsons, were ordered into the hold; and deponent saw nothing more until, after hearing said boat foul something (which deponent after- ward learned was the inclosure of a fish-pond off Middle Bass Island), deponent was ordered on deck. On reaching the deck deponent found said vessel off Middle Bass Island on her second return from of San- dusky harbor; and while below dejonent was told by the engineer that they ran about two or three miles beyond Marblehead on the straight course to Sandusky; but deponent heard nothing,and can coujecture nothing as to the reason for the said second return from off Sandusky harbor. Deponent was desired to pilot said boat for Detroit Diver, and did so. On entering the said river said Bell pointed out certain vessels to deponent, and inquired what waters they were In; and beinginformed that they were in Canadian waters, remarked that it was a good thing for them that they were, otherwise that they would have boarded them. They there inquired for one Ives, a banker residing at Grosse Isle, and said if it had notbeen so late they would have robbed him; and desired deponent, as it was so late, to take the boat up the British channel. Deponent piloted said boat accordingly until reaching the head of Fighting Island, and was then landed with the other prisoners, and remained until taken off to Ecorse by a small boat, getting on board the Pearl at Ecorse, and stopping at Sandwich. He there saw the Parsons, and took possession of her, and sent word by the captain of the Pearl to Detroit of what had happened. Deponent saith that the second in command of said party was a man of middle stature, appar- ently about thirty years of age, wore a small mustache, and 110 other whiskers or beard; fair complexion, sandy-haired; wore a woolen cap, with a net peak; spoke with a Scotch accent, as well as deponent a judge; and appeared to understand the details of the en~ne fixings. The whole party were young men except one, who called himself a sur- geon, and were generally fair-complexioned and ruitlier full-bodied men. Two of said party left the said boat in a small boat belonging to the Island Queen, after having passed Malden, the Parsons being slowed for that purpope; and deponent saw them shape their course for a point 16 K 3VOL xLm~ PT Page 242 242 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. about a mile north of Maiden, where there is a limekiln. .i)eponent was robbed by said party of clothes an(l other effects which he could not replace for ~2OO. I). C. NICHOLS. Subscribed and sworn to this 25th day of September, A. D. 1864, before me. HENRY B. BROWN, Notary Public, Wayne County, iifich. B 5. STATE OF MICHIGAN, County of Wayne, ss: James Denison, being further (lilly sworn, saith, that when the Par- sons returned to Sandwich there were not more than three persons on the dock; they appeared to be Canadians. I did not stay there more thau fifteen minutes. They made me show them the injection pipes below, smashed one of them themselves and I cut the other. As I was going up street I saw ten or fifteen men and boys coming down. They were talking among themselves, but I heard little of what was said. The rebels, I thought, were talking about burning the boat; and one of these Canadians, a grayish-headed mali, a bout forty years old, said they should not do it there. Soon after Campbell and I walked away, and one of the rebels walked with us to the head of the street. I did not see them take the piano from the cabin to the lower deck, but saw them take it ou the dock. Did not see them injure the boat there, except to cut her pipes. Saw most of them walk away; some went up to Windsor with us, each with a bundle of plunder in his hands. JAMES I)ENISON, Subscribed and sworn to this 25th day of September, A. 1). 1864, before me. HENRY B. BROWN, Notary Public, Wayne County, ilflch. B 6. STATE OF MTCHI(LkN, County of Wa yue, 88: Walter 0. Ashley, being duly sworn, saith, that lie is twenty-eight years of age, and is clerk and l)art owner of the steanier Philo Par- sons. Deponent further saith, that he was on said steanmer on her trip from Detroit to Sandusky on Monday last. On the evemiiiig before, about 8 oclock, a young man, about twenty-five years oldevidently Scotch or English, stout, thick-set, a little below medium height, dressed in English clothes, very light hair, very tlmin, light-colored beardwith the address of a gentleman, camiie on board the boat, called me by name; said he and a party of friends were going to take a pleasure trip to Kellys Island in the morning, amid wished the boat to stop at Sand- wich ammd take omi his friends, one of them, being lanie, did not like to come up. I told him if he would be at Detroit in the morning him- self to let mae know if time men were going the boat would stop and take them. I tol(I him further that they could take imo baggage, as there was mio custom-house on Kellys Island. rplie steamer Philo Pam- somis left Detroit omi the morning of September 19, at 8 a. in., with abou Page 243 Gun. LY.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UflON. 248 forty passengers. Immediately after leaving Detroit this same young man, whom I had frequently seen before, came to me, and, calling me by name, said there were four passengers who wanted to take the boat at Sandwich, a small town .on the Canadian side of the river, some three miles below Detroit. I reported the same to Captain Atwood, and he stopped and took them on. They said when they came on board that they were taking a little pleasure trip, and intended to stop at Keflys Island. AU the baggage they had was, a small hand-satchel. At Maiden, twenty miles don the river on the Canada side, where the boat stops regularly, there were about twenty men came on board and took passage for Sandusky. As it had been quits common of late to take on nearly that number of passengers at this point nearly every tripmost of them being skedaddlers from the Stateof Ohio, and getting starved out in Canada and returning homeI at once set the party down as a lot of skedaddlers returning homs. A large oldfashioned trunk, tied up with ropes, constituted the baggage of the party. Everything went off quietlyduring the day. The boat stopped ata num- ber of the islands, taking on quite a number of passengers. Captain Atwood stopped off the boat at Middle Bass Island, where he resides. Shortly after leaving Kellys Island, between the island and San- dusky, I was standing in front of my office, when four of theparty came up to me, and drawing revolve leveled them, and said ff1 offered any resistance I was a dead man. At the same time the old black trunk flew open, and in less time than it takes to write it the whole gang of about thirty-fivewere armed tothe teeth with revolvers, hatchets, & c. I thentoldthemthatthey apparently had the strongestparty, and guessed I should have to surrender. They then stationed two men to watch me, the remainder rushing into the cabin and threatening to shoot any one that offered any resistance. There was a large number of ladies on board, who were very much frightened. The boat was then headed don the lake for about an hour; then turned around and ran to Middle BassIsland. Whilelyingthere the steamer Island Queen came alongside and was instantly seized. Quite a number of shots were fired, and a number were struck with hatchets, but I think no one was killed. The r gers of both boats were then put ashore, and a portion of the gage. After taking what money I had, they requested me to go ashore. They allowed me to take my private property, but none of the books or papers belonging to the boat The boats were then started out in the lake, the Parsons towing the Queenashortdistanceintothelakeandthenlethergoadrift. From observations at Kellys Island next morning, the Queen was supposed to be seen ashore on Middle Island. After putting off the passengers at Middle Bass Island, the Philo Parsons head or udusky and was gone about four hours. She afterward returned under a full head. of steam, and after passing Middle Bass headed for MaIden, Canada, andsteeringinthatdirectionaslongasshecouldbeseen. Thecrew of both boats were retainedand made to do the bidding of the parties in possession. I heard the captain of the gang saythat he would place myself and the passengers where we could give no information until morning, and before that time their work would be completed. He said it was their intention to run to the mouth of Sandusky Bay, and if they received the pro r signals it was their intention to run in, attack the U. S. steamer Michigan lying off Johnsons Island, and then release their friends Imprisoned at that place. The men who got out board at Sandwich appeared to be English gentlemen; all well dressed in English clothes; two wearing kid gloves; inquired about the grape Page 244 244 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. and wines on the islands, and were sociable with the passengers. Think these four were Southerners dressed in English Costume to dis- guise themselves. The party which Came on at Maiden had nothing to do with those that came on at Sandwich, and did not appear to recog- nize them. Their clothes were worn, some of them ragged, and all had apparently seen hard service. The trunk was brought on by two of the hardest looking of the crowd. Nearly all paid their fare singly in greenbacks. On arriving at Kellys Island I remarked to the Sandwich party that I supposed they were going to get oft there. Just then three or four men came to the gangway from the dock, and speaking to the Sand- wich party said, We have concluded to go to Sandusky. One of that party said, We will go with you, and all came aboard. The Kelly-Island party proved to be a part of the same band. After the seizure the boat was steered down the lake directly away from her course to Sandusky, and in plain sight of Johnsons Island and the steamer Michigan. Some of them seemed to wish to burn the Parsons, others did not. This Scotchman I have spoken of said the boat would burn, or he would die. He seemed to be a ringleader, an(l bent upon all the destruction possible. He said he had been lieutenant in the navy, but did not say what navy; others also told itie so. He took charge of the deck, and seemed well versed in the business. They said part belonged to John Morgans band, and one was named Morgan. There were about twenty-five unarmed soldiers on board the Island Queen when she was takenreturned 100-days men from Ohio, going to Toledo to be mustered out. They were not under command of an officer. The engineer of the Island Queen iesisted, and was instantly shot, but not killed. The number of our mei~, including crew, at the time the Parsons was Cal)tured, did not exceed thirty-five. The trunks of passengers were not generally plundered; most of it was sent ashore at Middle Bass Island. The cargo of thirty tons pig-iron, some furniture, and tobacco, was thrown overboard. 1 saw fire-balls of lIeml), which the porter told me he was ordered to makesome to burn the Parsons ,and some to burn Mr. Ives house, on Grosse Isle. W. 0. ASHLEY. Subscribed and sworn to this 25th day of September, A. B. 1864, before me. HENRY B. BROWN, Notary Public, Wayne County, Mich. B 7. SANDUSKY, & pternber 26, 1864. Henry flames deposes and says, that he is engineer of the Island Queen, a steamer running regularly from Sandusky to Kellys island and the Bass Islands. The boat left Sandusky last Monday at 3 p. in., her usual hour, for Kellys lsland. As we were nearing Kellys Island w~ met the Parsons, about a mile from Kellys Island, and seemingly bound for Sandusky. After passing us she turned to the east, went dow-n the lake, and turned and came back again, and then steered her course for Middle Bass, where she arrived before us, and was lying at the dock. We came alongside of her, and men caine on the Island Queen from her. 1 was in the engine-room attending to the workin9 of the engine. I heard some one exclaim, Shoot the ~on of a bitch, and was immediately shot, the ball passing my nose and throug Page 245 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCfl, ETC.ITNION. 245 my left cheek. The bell rang, and I stopped the engine, and caine out 011 deck. I there met two men, one of them bearing a globe lantern lit, and a revolver, and the other armed with two revolvers. This latter one asked me what was the matter with me. This was about 8 p. m. He passed me on board of the Parsons, saying to the man on guard at the gangway of the Parsons, . This is one of our prisoners. Mr. Woolford, a passenger on the Island Queen, and a prisoner on the Par- sons, told the men who passed me on board the Parsons, that I was the engineer of the Island Qacen, and should be~ermitted to remain on board the Island Queen to take care of the boilers. I was thereupon put back on the Island Queen, with a guard over me. One of the cap- turing party, who was called Captain Morgan, asked me where the valves were. I showed him the pony pipe in the hold, and he there- upon chopped it off. He then took a big sledge hammer and broke the big cock off the side of the boat and let the water in. Captain Mor- gan was aided by the nfan who stood guard over me, and they then l)assed me a second time on board the Parsons. Before this pipe was cut the guard had asked me how I was going to vote. I told him that I was going to vote tbr Old Abe. He asked me what McClellans chamices were, and I replied that I thought he had none. After placing me on the Parsons they took the Island Queen in tow, towed her about five miles toward Kellys Island, and then let go of her. We were then placed in the hold, and the capturing party seemed to be deliberating as to whether they should attack the Michigan. The boat was kept on her course to the mouth of the bay. She was then turned and went back toward Detroit, and I was landed with other men on Fighting Island. his HENRY x HA1NES. mark. Subscribed and sworn before me. WM. H. LUDLOW, Aide-ic- Camp and~ Asst. Inspector- ~Jenerai, Dept. of the East. I saw the signal lights, red and blue, in the cabin, and lit. They had been takemi from their place outside, so that the position of the Parsomis could not be seen. his HENRY x HAINES. mark. C. COUNTY CROWN ATTORNEYS OFFIOn, IVindsor, ASeptember 22, iSG4. ALFRED It. RUSSELL, Esq., LX S. District Attorney, Michigan, Detroit: SIR: I have the honor to inform you that I have received instruc- tions from the Government at Quebec to spare no l)ains in bringing to justice the parties implicated in the crime of taking forcible posses- sion of the steamer Philo Parsons, on Lake Erie, and in seizing and sinking the Island Queen. There is reason to believe that those parties have fled from this neighborhood, amid have proceeded to another part of Canada, or to the Lower Provinces. The principal difficulty in effect- ing arrests by our officers is the identification of the parties concerned. If~ therefore, you will be good enough to secure the services of some of the crew of the Philo Parsons, who can identity those engaged in th Page 246 ~CHAP. LV. 24~ OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. commission of the crime, the chief constable of Windsor will be dis- patched with a warrant to arrest the parties at Toronto or at any other place in the province to which they may be traced. I have the honor to be, yonr obedient servant, S. E. MACDONELL, County Crown Attorney. p. THE STATE OF Ouio, Ottawa County, ss: Personally appeared before me, the subscriber, a jnstice of the peace in and for said county, Simon Fox, of lawful age, who, being by me first duly sworn according to law, deposes as follows: I am part owner of the steamer Philo Parsons. After the Phulo Parsons was captured by the rebels she was taken by them to the port of Sandwich, in Canada, aud I went there to recover her, her apparel, furniture, & c. The custom-house officer there told me, after the rebels landed the piano and furnitnre of the Parsons, he saw among the goods landed by them a market basket containing revolvers, which he seized with the other goods; but that he subsequently released the revolvers to them, as they claimed them. SIMON FOX. Sworn to and subscribed before me this 29th day of September, A. P. 18(34. VALENTINE POLLER, Justice of the Peace ia and for said County. E. OFFICE OF U. S. DISTRICT ATTORNEY, EASTERN 1)IsTRICT OF MIdHI~AN, Detroit, & ~ptentber 24, 1864. Maj. Gemi. JOHN A. DIX: SIR: I have the honor to report the fbllowing action taken by the civil authorities in relation to the late piracies upon Lake Erie. The affair was first brought to the notice of the district attorney by the owners and crew of the Philo Parsons on Tuesday morning at 11 oclock. The affidavit of James Penison, the engineer of the boat, was taken at once, to substantiate the complaint, and early in the afternoon Mr. Russell went over to Windsor, accompanied by Mr. Nichols, the mate, and laid the matter before the authorities there. After some delay in finding the proper officer, a warrant for piracy was issued by the county judge and placed in the hands of the chief constable, with instruc- tions from Mr. Macdonell, the county crown attorney, who has through- out displayed the utmost activity and willingness to aid us to execute it with all possible speed. Two of the crew of the Parsons were directed to accompany the constable for the purpose of identifying the parties. On the following day, Wednesday, the constable reported to this office that lie had been unsuccessful in finding the men; that all except three had left before the warrant was obtained on Tuesday, and that these had left during the night and taken the eastern train at Belle River, about forty miles from Windsor. Mr. Macdonell at once telegraphed the attorney-general at Quebec, informing him of the escape of these parties, and requesting his aid in securing them. The agents of the railway at Hamilton were also telegraphed by Mr. Emumons, of this city. Mr. Russell, the district attorney, being called away to Washington o Page 247 CHAP. LVJ CORRI~SPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 247 Wednesday night, the further management of the case was left in my hands. The solicitor-general of Canada came to Windsor on Thursday, and in a conversation between him, the county attorney at Windsor, Mr. Emmons, and myself; we were assured that the Canadian govern- ment would spare no pains in arresting the men, and it was even hinted that a reward would be offered for their apprehension. In connection with this, I inclose a copy of a letter* received from Mr. Macdonell, the county attorney of Essex County. On consultation with Colonel lull, the assistant provost-marshal- general of this state, it was determined that as soon as the Philo Par- sons, which had resumed her regular trips, returned from Sandusky, two of her crew, with the constable at Windsor and a detective from Detroit, should be sent to Toronto, where it is suspected that most of the party are still remaining. The Philo Parsons returned on Thursday night, and the men were dispatched on Friday. Nothing, however, has been heard from them as yet. I will here remark that I have .been informed that at the time the Philo Parsons was moored to the dock at Sandwich two men, who were seen staving a hole in her cabin and tak- ing out a piano and other furniture, were arrested by the custom-house officer at that place for nn})ortillg goods without a permit. This fur- niture, the property of the owners of the boat, has been guarded by the custom-house authorities with scrupulous fidelity, while the l)irates were released without delay, although the evidence against theiri mnst have been overwhelming. I inclose herewith copies of the affidavits t of James Denison, engineer, and Michael Campbell, wheelman of the Philo Parsons. Besides the warrant for piracy already spoken of, I have prepared others for robbery and assault with intent to murder for use in case the complaint for piracy cannot be sustained. I have the honor to be, your oi)edient servant, H. 13. BROWN, For ALFRED RUSSELL, U. S. District Attorney. Abstract front return of the Middle Military Division, Maj. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan, U~ S. Army, cooimanding, for the month of September, 1864. Present for ~ ~ Pieces of a duty. artillery. a ~ F-~ ,-~ a Command. .3 .3 -~ Headquarters. a Sc a an 1-~ a . ~- t- -~ a a St tt a St Sij a a General headquarters 22 66 145 281 In the field. Department of washington (Au- wasliin~ton, ID. C. gur) Staff and infantry 302 9, 257 12, 525 15, 488 Cavalry 115 3. 873 5, 916 7, 12.3 Artillery 203 6, 934 7, 596 8, 556 1)etachnient of Signal Corps- - 7 65 72 81 Total 627 19, 589 26, .369 11, 248 736~ 271 See Inclosure C, p. 245. See B 1 and B 2, pp. 235, 236 Page 248 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. Abstract from retorn of the Middle Military I)irision, 4-cContinued. Command. Present for duty. 0 a Pieces of n t~l1cr~ ~i Headquarters. I)epartmeut of the Susquehanna Chainherslnirg, Pa. ((:oiicli) Staff and infantry 18 ~8S 1, 182 2, 580 Cavalry 10 63 392 461 Artillery ) 181 197 299 I I 12 1)etachrnent. of Sianal Corps - 150 63 I - Total 11 1 388 1,781 3409 12 I ~~ Middle Department (Wallace): Baltimore, Md. ShYff and infantry Ill 43461 5751 7383 - 60~ Cavalry 19 46 Artillei-v 9 183 249 101 ) ~-) Total .139 3 9(53 6 o28 8,541 Department of West Virginia In the field. Crook): Staff anll infantry ~0 ( 9 ii 017 19 4 Cavalry 167 4 591 6 14 8 Artillery Sa 1 006 .1 661 4 a02 ~) C) Total (51) ii 514 21, 275 i :58,8 - ______ _________ I H Sixth Army Corps (Wright): In the field. Staff and infantry 419 9 648 13, 068 28, 690 Artillery 21 5i6 662 7 TotaL - - - 443 10 124 11, 730 29, 4 Nineteenth Army Corps (Emory): In the field. Staff naIl infantry 502 10 361) 12, 244 21, 1 - Artillery 438 527 i 20 Total at4 10 165 12,082 21,6 Cavalry forces (Torhert): Cavalry and stall Artillery Total Grand total 267 22 6,076 8.318 520 614 10,785 858 24 289 6,596 8, 932 20. 1543 *24 -~ 2, 886 71, 347 91, 182 153, 859 760 327 In the field. - Absb-oct from re/ni-n of tile Deportment of tile Lest, MfQ. Gee. John A. Dix,t U. S. Army, eoalm(tli(liag, for tile alollth of September, 18G4. Commaad. General lieadqnarters City and Haihor of New Yoik tHnat~ - - Harts Island (Hinlcs) Boston Has-hoc and Massachusetts Sea-Coast Defenses (Floyd- Jones) Defenses of Portalnouth liarhor and Maine Sea-Coast (Ii)awson) - Oilier forts Total Present for duty. 0 112 511 8 :io 12 20 246 a- a1a~ a 5.a -0 SC SC a ~ a a a cc 1) cc cc a 112 112 1,053 1,601 2,558 1001 101 1,370 1,676 1,754 67 333 358 369 1,168 - - 1,346 1,560 3.924 5,293 6454 Not repolte(t On retsiris. Borne on Torherts return as field gun8. ~ Ma,j. C-en. .Jolin J. Peck, U. S. Army, ~ee(ln(l ill command. 24 Page 249 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNTON. 249 ~1IARRJSONBURc{, October 1, 186410 a. m. (Received 3(1.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have ordered General Wilson to report to Sherman. He is the best man for the position. 1 have devastated the Valley from Staunton down to Mount Crawford, and will continue. The destruction of mills, grain, forage, foundries, & c., is very great. The cavalry report to me that they have collected 3,000 head of cattle and sheep between Staunton and Mount Crawford. The difficulty of transporting this army through the mountain passes onto the railroad at Charlottesville is such that I regard it as impracticable, with my present means of transportation. The rebels have given up the Valley, excepting Waynesborough, which has been occupied by theni since my cavalry was there. I think that the best policy will be to let the burning of the crops of the Valley be the end of this campaign, and let some of this army go somewhere else. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. HARIIJ5ONRUR G, October 1, 1861930 ~. m. (IThecived 3d.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: A dispatch* just received from General ilalleck, in which you expect me to reach Staunton or Charlottesville. 1 have been to Staunton all(l Waynesborough with the cavalry; destroyed the iron bridge on South River at Waynesborough, throwing it into the river; also the bridge over Christians Creek, and the railroad from Staunton to Waynesbor- ough. My judgment is that it would be best to terminate this cam- pal ~a by the destruction of the crops, & c., in this valley, and the trans- fer of the troops to the army operating against Richmond. If the Orange and Alexandria Railroad is opened, it will take an army corps to protect it. If the Fvont Royal road is opened, it will take as many troops to protect it, as there is no enemy in the Valley to operate against. Early is, without doubt, fortit~4ng at Charlottesville, holding Rockfish Gap. it is no easy matter to pass these mountain gaps and attack Charlottesville, haulii~g supplies through difficult passes, fourteen miles in length, and with a line of communication from 135 to 145 miles in length, without the organization of supply trains, ordnance trains, and all the appointments of. an army making a permanent advance. At present we are organized for a raid up the Valley, with no trains except the corps trains. All the regimental wagons had to be used as supply wagons to subsist us as far as this place, and cant do it at that. 1 am ready and willing to cross the ~Blue Ridge, but know from present indi- cations that the enemy will strongly fortify at Charlottesville and Gordonsville, and that these places cannot be taken without the exl)enditure of a largely superior force to keep open the line of coin- inunicution. With my present means, I cannot accumulate supplies enough to carry me through to the Oraiige and Alexandria Railroad. P. II. SHERTT)AN, Mc.Jor- General. See il-hilleek to Sheridan, September 28, p. 196 Page 250 250 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W VA., MD., AND PA. rCHAP. tV. IiARTIISONBURG, VA., October 1, 1864G p. m. (f~eceived 7 a. in. 3d.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Your telegram of the 28th received. My cavalry was rapidly pushed to Staunton and Waynesborough, some of the results of which I have telegraphed. All the crops, mills, & c., have been destroyed from Staunton to Mount Crawford, which is my present front. I will make another raid with cavalry and infantry to Staunton and Lexington. Early was driven out of the Valley, and only saved himself by getting through Browns Gap in the night, and has probably taken position at Charlottesville, and will fortify, holding Waynesborough and Rockfish Gap. I strongly advise General Grant to terminate this campaign by the destruction of the crops in the Valley and the means of plantin~, and the transfer of the Sixth and Mneteenth Corps to his army at Richmond. This is my best judgment. With Crooks force, the Valley can be held, if this course is not deemed best, then the Orange and Alexandria Railroad should be opened. If it is,it will require an army corps at least to protect it. This force cannot be furnished from this army; and wherever these troops come from, it will be a loss of that number of men from the fighting force. There is no objective point, except Lynchburg, and it cannot be invested on the line of this Valley, and the investing army supplied. What we have destroyed and can destroy in this Valley is worth millions of dollars to the rebel Govern- ment. A large number of the best farmers of the Valley are moving north, taking advantage of our presence to get out. If it is deemed best to transfer this army to the east side of the Blue Ridge, the repairs on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad should be commenced at once, and a notification sent to me. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, OFFICE OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, Jiarrisonbury, Va., October 1, 1864. Lient. Col. JAMES W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that I have received infor- mation from a rebel deserter from the Thomas (North Carolina) Legion, that there are yet about 1,000 rebel stragglers between here and Strasburg, who are many of them armed and picking up stragglers from this army and running them off into the mountains. Many are acting under the leadership of one Captain Lincoln, who commands a band of guerrillas. They are every day becoming more tioublesome, as they are getting better organized and armed. Their headquarters is along the base of the mountains, on the east side of the Valley. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. W. CROWNJNSIIIELI), Captain and Acting Provost-Marshal- General Page 251 cHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.ITNION. 251 [Indorsemont.] HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October 1, 1864. Respectfully referred to Brevet Major-General Torbert, chief of cav- alry, who will take such measures to capture the within-named guer- rillas as he deems proper. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIvlsIoN, No. ~31. October 1, 1864. * * * * . * * * * 9. The District of Harpers Ferry is hereby constituted a separate brigade, and its commanding officer consequently invested with the authority of a (livisioll commander. 10. Maj. S. H. Starr, Sixth U. S. Cavalry, will at once proceed to Pleasant Valley, MI, and assume command of Remount Camp. He will report to Brevet Major-General Torbert, chief of cavalry, for orders. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR.. Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 1, 1864. Brigadier-General DE RUSSY, Commanding Dirision: GENERAL: The major-general coniinanding directs that the Provis- ional Battalion, under Captain Strickland, be broken up and the men an(I officers sent to their regiments. They will be sent direct instead of ooing to rendezvous of distribution. Please report your action to these headquarters. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. II. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C, October 1, 1864. (Received 9.30 p. in.) Brig. Gen. J. P. SLOUGH, Alilitary Governor of Alexandria: GENERAL: Six companies of the Two hundred and first Pennsyl- vania Volunteers are ~0W at Soldiers Rest, in this city, under orders to report to you. They will report at Alexandria October 2. The major- general commanding directs that they be retained in or in vicinity of Alexandria nntil the remaining four companies report to you. What is the condition of the telegraph wire along Orange and Alexandria Railroad ~ Very respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General. Incorrectly dated; see p. 437 Page 252 252 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 1, 18G41O.40 p. in. Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and A. A. (L, ]Idqrs. Dept. of Washington: COLONEL: The telegraph wire is down in many places between this point and Bull hun. It will doubtless be in working condition by day- light to-morro~v to that point. There being no spare operator at this place, we will be unable to get any definite information until the tele- graph construction train returns, which is expected to-night. An oper ator has been found, who will go out in the morning. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH. HEADQUARTERS CAYALRY BRR~ADE, Near Fort B~iffalo, Va., October 1, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. El. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance has occurred in this vicinity since last report. Colonel Lazelle left this morning at 3 h. m. with 400 men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. S. GANSEVOORT, Colonel Thirteenth New York Volnnteer Cavalry, (~omrnanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY 1)IVISION, lliarrisonburg, Va., October 1, 1864. General MERRITT, First Dirision: GENERAL: The cavalry trains will reach this place to-night. Your train will be sent you to-morrow a. in., leaving here at daylight. 1 am directed by the chief of cavalry to say that he desires you to delay the movement of the two brigades previously ordered until the subsistence has been issued to them. Very respectfully, WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant Adft.~tant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October 1, 18649 a. m. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Commanding First Division: I have just received another order to send a party to Stanardsville. This order I sent you yesterday, and I presume it has been attended to. It is supposed that the enemys cavalry will attempt a raid on our trains via the cast slope of the Blue Ridge. Your dispatch and General Devins report has just been received. General Sheridan wishes to know whether the road in Browns Gap has been blockaded by fallen timber or not. General Sheridan is very much annoyed that he does not get some information about the enemy through Swift Run or Browns Gaps. Keep parties out constantly to find out where the enemy are. Send all sheep and cattle not required for immediate use to these head- quarters to be taken to the rear by an infantry guard. I presume th Page 253 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE. E TC.UMON. 253 brigade of the Third Division is at Mount Crawford by this time. Send me the disposition of your division. You can locate the brigades as you see fit. The Second Division has gone to Luray. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TOIRBERT, Breret iJhi~jor- General and Chief of Cavalry. Hon. E. M. STANTON: HARPERS FERRY, VA., October 1, 1864. Have heard from General Sheridan, through Quartermaster Alex- ander, just from Harrisonburg. He is at Waynesborough with his inhintry. Early passed out of Valley through Rockfish Gap. His men were scattered in the utmost disorder. Sheridan picked up many of them. All the houses on the route of their fii~ht were filled with abandoned wounded. Sheridans supply trains are well up to him; will reach him iii time. There are no organized troops of enemy in Valley this side of Staunton except Mosbys guerrillas. Another supply train goes up to Sheridan to.day from Martinsbnrg. Respectfully, JNO. D. STEVI2NSOK, Brigadier- General Volnnteer8. HARPERS FERRY, VA., October 1, 186410.30 p. rn. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: I have just returned from Martinsburg, where, at 7 oclock this even- ing, several officers arrived direct from General Sheridan. On Thurs- day morning he was near Harrisonburg with his infantry; a part of the cavalry had been in Staunton. The main cavalry force had a sharp engagement with the enemy at Browns Gap, through which Early had retired, instead of Rockfish Gap, and which he was holding with determination. The effort of the cavalry had failed to move the enemy. Sheridan had not advanced his infantry to Staunton, but was resting them near Harrisonburg. The large supply train was met beyond Woodstock, and would get up to-night. A train of 200 additional wagons left Martinsburg this morning, and will reach the front in good time. Three hundred of our wounded reached Martinsburg tonight in a return train; also 100 additional rebel prisoners. General Sheri- dans chief commissary reports the army rationed until 7th of the month. A train of 300 wagons will be dispatched for the front on Monday. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS POST, Wincheter Va Lieut. Col. JAMES W. FORSYTH, .~ October 1, 1864. Chief of Staff: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that information has been received at these headquarters to the effect that between 4,000 and 5,000 armed men of the enemy are in the mountains and on the road Page 254 254 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. between here and the front. They are, if there, supposed to be strag- glers from Earlys command. Among the number is one colonel and several other commissioned officers, who are said to be endeavoring to organize them. I have the honor to report further that I yesterday destroyed a distillery near Pughtown, seizing several barrels of newly distilled apple brandy, and turning it over to the hospitals. I am iii receipt of an order from Brigadier-General Stevenson, dated from head- quarters Military District of Harpers Ferry, and stating that he had, by direction of the President, assumed command of said (listrict, includ- ing Harpers Ferry, Martinsburg, and the lower Shenandoah Valley. I would desire to know whether I am to report to him, or, as heretofore, to the headquarters Middle Military J)ivision. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. EDWARDS, Colonel, Commanding Post. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, No. 1. ) October 1, 18G4. I. In obedience to Special Orders, No. 44, headquarters Middle Mili- tary Division, September 30, 1864, I assume command of the Second Cavalry Division, Department of West Virginia. 11. The following named officers are announced as composing the staff of the (livision until further orders: Capt. N. D. Badger, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, acting inspector-general; First Lient. George S. South, Second Virginia Cavalry, acting assistant adjutant-general; First Lieut. S. C. W. I)ummlevy, First Virginia Cavalry, acting assistant quartermaster; Capt. (3-. W. E. Dorsey, Sixth West Virginia Infantry, acting commissary of subsistence~ First Lieut. H. W Fuller, First Virginia Cavalry, acting ordimance officer; Capt. Il. G. Prendergast, First New York (Lincoln) Cavalry, acting provost-marshal; First Lient. 0-. A. Sexton, Third West Virginia Cavalry, aide-de-camp; See- orid Lieut. W. S. Merrill, Second West Virginia Cavalry, aide dc-camp; Surg. W. B. Wynne, Fourteenth P~nnsylvauia Cavalry, surgeon in chief. They will be obeyed and respected accordingly. W. II. POWELL, Colonel. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Harrisonbnrg, Va., October 1, 1864. Byt. Maj. Gen. B. F. KELLEY, Cnrnberland, Md.: Your dispatch to General Halleck relating to affairs in West Virginia has beemi received by the commanding general from General Sheridan. Positive immformation possessed here shows that there can be nothing more. than guerrillas threatening Clarksburg, Beverly, and Grafton. If you need troops to make those I)oints secure, you must call on Gen- eral Duffi~ for them, and he must, if possible, furnish enough for that purpose. By order of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 255 CnAr. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 255 Governor BOREIXIAN, GRAFTON, October 1, 1864. Wheeling: Captain ilagans reports the rebels returning by way of Bulitown. My cavalry are iii pursuit, but unfortunately not in force sufficient to overtake and capture them. The following is an extract from Captain ilagans (lispatch: Much prol)erty has been carried off. Their conduct was such as cL racterized nothing but robbers. They robbed the stores and private houses, carrying off the clothing of men, women, and children, in some cases compelling women and children to take off their shoes and stockings. Their horses were loaded down with stolen l)rol)erty. Many of the citizens were robbed of their money. Union and rebel citi- zens fared alike. The loss to this county cannot be less than t40,OOO. Their entire con(luct was of the most shameful character. I hope I may be better prepared next time. I will relieve the militia and permit them to return to their homes as soon as practicable. They have responded nobly to your call. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. Ma. W. R. PRICE, MARTINSBURG, [October] 1, 1861. Ass ista at Inspector- Genercd, Cavalry Bureau: I have just arrived from Cumberland, having inspected i)uffh~. I will send you a detailed report as soon as possible. I would have tele- ~ra1)hed from Hagerstown. but I found everything mixed and could find out nothing for certain. All the (lislnounted camp has l)eeIl ordered up here; is here now. Send 1,000 horses to this place to mount Aver- elis command. The arms and equipments General Neill says he will have directed to inc at this place, General Neills headquarters. Cap- tain Wray is assistant quartermaster. G. A. GORl)O~, Captain, Second Cavalry. GRAFTON, October 1, 1864. Captain GORDON, U. S. Army, Gum berland: (Care of Lient. W. B. Kelley.) Will you please inspect the Sixth West Virginia Cavalry and Cap tam Kelleys company, now at New Creek. Unless I can have these troops armed and equipped I cannot protect the railroad and the people from the incursions of MeNeills, Harness, and other guerrilla bands. B. F. KELLEY. Brevet Major- General. GRAFTON, October 1, 1864. Brigadier-General SULLIVAN, Charleston: The enemy are retreating by way of Bulltown, and will probably go I)y way ot Suminerville. They are about 800 or 9(K) strong, a detach- ment of Morgans late command, and are in command of Colone Page 256 256 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LY. Witcher. They have stolen all the horses an(1 cattle on the route, and i~obbed the 1)eople of everything they could carry ofL 1-lave no artil- lery. B. F. KELLEY, Breret Alajor- General. CHARLESTON, October 1, 186-1. (Received 2d.) Captain BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General A force of the enemy, 150 strong, attacked the post at Coalsmouth at 9 oclock last i)ight. They were driven off; their loss was 5 wounded and 1 killed. The force from Winfield pursued and capturet 1 prisoner. J. C. SULLIVAN. Brigadier- General. OCTOBER 1, 186412.30 p. in. (Received 1 P. in.) Major-GenerM HALLECK, Chief of Staff: In obedience to your orders by telegraph yesterday, have sent the Twelfth Maryland Infantry to General Stevensoii. It is a small regi- but ment, only five companies, s the only available one I have. LEW. WALLACE. Major- General of Volunteers. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE 1)EPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 245. Baltimore, October 1, 1864. * * * * * * 2. The Twelfth Regiment Maryland Volunteer Infantry (100 (lays service), Lient. Col. Johu L. Bishop commanding, will be put en route at once, to report to Brigadier-General Stevenson, conunandiug officer at Harpers Ferry, W. Va. The quartermasters department will far- nish the necessary transportation. Brig. Gen. E. B. Tyler, command- ing First Separate Brigade, is charged with the execution of this order. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Wallace: SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, A ss istant A Wutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND SEPARATE BRIGADE, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, I)EYENSES OF BALTIMORE, Port AleHenry, Md., October 1, 1864. Lient. Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assista nt A4jutant- General: COLONEL: 1 have the honor to inform you that with reference to a prompt concentration and movement of the Fifth Regiment Massachu- setts Volunteer Infantry, if the necessity shall arise, I. have ordere Page 257 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 257 Colonel Peirson, of said regiment, to report, without (lelay, with the three companies of his (omliland, to this iost. I have also ordered three companies of the Ninety..first New York Veteran Volunteers to Fort Marshall. The order is now in process of execution. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. MORRIS 1 8 A Bye ret Briyadnr- (~eneval, . . rmy, (!ommandinq. IIEAI)QITARTERS i)uPAnTxwN~I OF THE EAST, Yew brA (lily, October 1, 1564. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Mv DEAR SIR: I send my report2 on the outrage on Lake Erie. 1 thiiik it would be well to publish it, and I ask your permission to do so. My chief motive is this: There is a very strong feeling at 1~etroit an(l other places on the frontier in regard to this outrage and threatened incursions by rebels in Canada, and it will do good on both sides to know that strong measures are likely to be taken to redress them. I found the leading men of Detroit consulting as to the propriety of pub- lishiiig articles in the newspapers calculated to stir the people up to retaliatory measures. At my earnest representation that the in atter should be left in the hands of the Goveriiinent, they (lecided to renmin (fuiet, an(l I think the publication of my report will confirm them in this course. I have no idea that the pirates will be taken. Thou gh the Canadian authorities may act in good faith, the great body of the l)eol)le ot the upper district of Canada sympathize with the rebels. I am, clear sir, truly, yours, JOHN A. i)JX. WASHINGTON, October 2, ISGiil a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: The railroad and telegraph corps have reached Manassas. If they are to go to Front Royal it will be loss of time and labor to proceed to the RapDahannock as or(lercd by General Halleck. I understand you were leaving the route to be selected by Sheridan, and understand him as choosing the road to Front Royal; but Halleck (loes not so under- stand the matter. Wouldnt it be well for you to direct specifically tIme route from Maii assas immediately ? E. M. STANTON, 8ecretary oJ IVar. WASHINGTON, October 2, i& iii a. m. Lientenant-Geii eral GRANT, City Point, La.: I have received no reply from General Sheridan in regard to his future line of supplies, but infer from his dispatch of September 29 to you that he will not go to Charlottesville. Our constrnction l)amty has See communication of 30th iiltinio, p. 225, 17 R EVOL XLIII, PT I Page 258 ~258 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. passed Mariassas Junction, toward the Rapl)ailaIrnoCk. In view of Sheridans last (lisl)atch would it riot be better to put the working party on the road toward Front Royal? H. W. IIALLECK, Major- Gencral ((ud Chief of AStatf. CITY POINT, VA., October 2, 18641.40 p. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK. Washington: Please direct the construction I)aIty at work oh the railroad to open the road to Front Royal. iT. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAShINGTON, I). C October 2, 1864. Major-Geiieral MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: All work on the Orange railroad will cease, and the road to Front Royal be repaired. Very respectfully, II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chi(f of Star CATLETTS STATION, VA., October 2, 186-1. (Received 2 p. in.) Brigadier-General MCCALLUIXI, ASuperill ten(l en t Militcry Railroads: The road will be ready to Rappahannock Station by to-morrow noon. E. L. WENTZ. WASHINGTON, 1). C., October 2, 18647.20 p. m. E. L. WENTZ, Catletts Station: Cease work on Orange road, and repair railroad to Piedmont and Front Royal. H. XV. IJALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Sta ~f. CONFIDENTiAL.] QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, D. C., October 2, 186411 a. in. (Received 12 in.) Lieutenant-Colonel TOLLES, Chief Quartermaster, Middle Military Div., Jlfartinsburg, ira.: Your dispatch of 1st received. Latest dispatches received tYom General Sheridan evening of 29th, Harrisonbnrg. Movements not determined. Should he follow Early to Charlottesville, he will be sup Page 259 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 259 plied by the railroad which is now being reconstructed to the iRappa- hannock, beyond which river we will not pass nntil advised from him of his disposition and need. He reports that the country from Harri- sonburg to Staunton is well supplied with forage, and that his cavalry destroyed large quantities of grain, harness, and property at Staunton and Waynesborough. For the present keep Winchester well stocked, according to his orders, an(l be guided by his instrnctions. Unless advised that you positively need them, I will not send you more wagons and mules to consume forage. We have them ready here. M. C. MEIGS, Brevet ]Jiliajor- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, II DQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIvISIoN, No. 46. October 2, 1864. 1. The Fourth New York Cavalry is hereby detailed for temporary duty at these headquarters. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., October 2, 1864. Major-General AUGUR: The work on the Orange railroad will cease, and that to Front Royal be repaired. Direct your forces accordingly. Very respectfully, II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of & afl~. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 221) ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Col. J. A. MAUS, Commanding 202d Pennsylvania Volunteers: COLONEL: The major-general commaiiding directs that you proceed to Alexandria with your regiment as soon as practicable. Upon ar- rival, report for orders to Brigadier-General Slough, military governor of Alexandria. Upon application to the quartermasters department, you will be furnished with the necessary transportation. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. II. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22~ ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN P. SLoUGH, Military Governor of Alexandria: GENERAL: The major general directs that, inasmuch as repairs have been stopped on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad and ordered t Page 260 260 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. commence on the Mana8sas Gap Railroad, you draw iii all troops beyond Manassas Junction, and send them as they may be required on that road. Very respectfully, general, your most ol)edient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief sJ & aft and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRKADE, Xear Fort Bafl~alo, Va October ~ 18(14. Licut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Stafr~ and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of jmnportanceto communicate from this vicinity. Nothing has been heard from Colonel Lazelle and party. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. S. GANSEVOORT, Colonel Thirteenth New York Volunteer Cavalry, Commanding. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SixTh ARMY CORPS, October 2, 1864. The corps will be held in readiness to move at daylight to-morrow. The trains, ambulances, and batteries will be hitched up and in com- plete marching order. By command of Major-General Wrioht: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, No. 210. 5 October 2, 1864. i. In accordance with Special Orders, No. 311, paragraph 47, current series, Adjutant-Generals Office, the regiment now designated as Seventh Maine Volunteers will hereafter bear the name of First Maine Veteran Volunteers. * * * * * By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Jlliajor and A etinfj Assistant A djatant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY l)IvLsIoN, October 2, 18642 p. m. Brevet Major-General EMORY, Commanding Nineteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you get your command under arms without delay. Very res~)ectfully, & c., JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chic/ of Staff Page 261 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 261 HEADQUARTERS 1)ETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, flarrisonburg, Th., October 2, 1864. Lient. Col. C. KINGSBURY, Jr., Assistant Adjutant- General, Middle Military Division: COLONEL: On a former occasion I had the honor to recommend il3riga dier-General Grover for promotion, giving a list of his services in this war. 1 resi)ectfuhly request that his name may be added to the list of officers recommended for promotion by me pursuant to orders from headquarters Middle Military Division of September 26, 1864, for good conduct during the engagements of the 19th ultimo, at Winchester, and 22d ultimo, at Fishers Hill. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. 11. EMORY, Rreret Mojor- Genera I, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MID DEE MILiTARY DivIsloN, October 2, 1864. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Coin man ding First Dicision GENERAL: Rations will be up to your command to-day. Issue as sooim as possible when they arrive. As soon as you have issued put strong parties down iu the directiou of Port Republic and New Hope, Piedmont, & c., by Rocklaud Mills, to ascertain the position of the enemy and get all the information possible. We should know whether there is ~~nything in Browns Gap. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TORPJERT~ Brevet Major- General ana Ch hf 0/. Ca rairy. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Ilarrisonbury, October 2, 18643.15 p. m. Brigadier-Geuerai MERRITT, Commanding First Cavalry Dirision: GENERAL: I am instructed by the major-general commanding to say that if the enemy press you and try to cross the river, to fall back resisting, and let them cross. In case they do cross, notify General Sheridan at once. Very respectfully, ~., JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief f Stafl~. HARRISONBURG SIGNAL STATION, October 2, 18644.05 p. m. General MERRITT: If the enemy press you, resist; but let them come this side of the river. If they cross, notify me. SHERIDAN, General Page 262 2(32 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. tX. WAShiNGToN, October 2, 18G4. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: T)o you know anything al)ollt General Neill, conunanding at Mar- tinsburg 6? What are his antece(lents 6? E. M. STANTON, S6ecretary of War HARPERS FERRY, VA., October 2, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I do not know General Neills antecedents. He was formerly in Sixth Corps (I believe Russells division); was ordered to report to General Sheridan; did report, and was ordered to post at Martinsburg. Rank- ing me, lie claimed that it was Geiieral Sheridans directions that his command should be independent of me, but subsequent order from General Sheridan to inc created the hupression upon my mind that lie was in error as to General Sheridans pnrposes. I wrote Sheridan immediately, expressing my convictiomi that his rear should be a unit. To this communication, I received no reply. Upon receiving telegram of Major-General Halleck, directing inc to assume command of all forces in this district, including Martinsburg and lower Shenandoah Valley, I immediately communicated the order to General Neill. On yester(lay I visited him at Martinsbur~, when he stated that he consi(lere(i him- self aggrieved by the order, and informed me that he had applied to be relieved. I still think that the good of the service requires the comniand to be a unit, and believe that I can run it without subjectiiig General Neill to the niortification of which lie complaimis. The supply- ing of General Sheridan promptly is the maui consideration, aiid to that end the entente cordiale should be perP~ct. General iNeill is in bearing a gentlemnami, and, for aught I know, a good officer; yet o1z~ject- ing to serve under his junior, I accord with his expressed wish to be relieved. General Neill was nuder the impression that it was at my instance the order of General Halleck had been made. This, you kimow, was not the case. JNO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, W. V A., October 2, 1864. (Received 4.40 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, - Chief of Staff: There is a body of about 400 guerrillas (Mosbys and Whites bands) infesting the country around Berryville, and between Bunker Hill and Winchester, cuting off small parties and threatening our trains. I have here (dismounted) the First Marylaud Cavalry. They are about 500 strong. They are good men, and as I have placed their worthless colonel in coventry, I think if they were armed with Spencer rifles or carbines, well mounted, and make these guerrillas their specialty, we could effectually destroy them. The men were all raised in this vicinity, are familiar with the country, and are the right troops for such service. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 263 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 263 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, llarrisonburg, Va., October 2, 1864. Briga(lier-General STEVENSON, (ommanding District of Harpers Ferry GENERAL: The major-general colilmandilig directs that you order Colonel Curries brigade, Nineteenth Corps, to proceed at once to Win- chester, and remain there until the arrival of the first train coming here, when they will join and escort it to this point, or wherever the command may be. \erv respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant A djuta ut- General. MARTINSBURG, October 2, 1864. (Received 12.3() p. in.) Major-General IIALLECK, (JlwJ of Staff: Information from the front up to Wednesday morning places Sheri- (lans army at Port Republic and Mount Crawford. The enemys infan- ti-y held Browns Gap. Our cavalry was driven out of Staunton, which is now occupied by the enemy. I sent 250 wagons to General Sheridan yesterday; will send another train to-morrow. Everything safe on the roa(1. T. U. NEILL, Brigadier- General. (Same to Brigadier-General Stevenson.) hEADQUARTERS I~o5T, lVinche.s-ter, October 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. T. H. NEILL, Commanding Post, Miartinsburg GENERAL: The train that left Martinsburg yesterday arrived here last night. I have no forces here to escort it to the front, except about 400 cavalry (and 100 of these cannot be relied on); also some strag- organization, olino- i ~ without numbering -~--~- men. have detained the train here on account of insufficiency in men to properly guard it. A train of its size to go through the country which it has to should have an escort of at least 2,000 men with it. Captain Blazer, of the Independent scouts, comes in this morning and reports Mosbys (olnman(l hovering in the neighborhood of Newtown; that the eit~zens alomig the route are all aware that a train is going through to-day; an(l that the Seventh Virginia Cavalry (rebel) are in the vicinity of Wood- stock, three of his men having been captured and paroled, their papers signed by an officer of that regiment. What (hisposition does Genem-al Sheridan intend to make of the force at Harpers Ferry, Colonel Cur- i-ics brigade, of the Nineteenth Corps, and General Kenlys troops? They are certainly needed here for escort duty. There are undoubtedly 2,000 armed strao-glers from Earlys army beyond Fishers Hill, organ- ized, with a rebel colonel at their head. No escort with dispatches can get through with less than 500 good cavalry. Immediate action is positively necessary. The road from here to Martinsburg is compar Page 264 264 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANI) PA. [CHAP. LV. tively safe; twenty-live men escort should, however, accompany (uS- j)atches from Martinsburg. I should have a battery here, if Possible; it is necessary; and also 1.000 men, infantry. I would earnestly request that you return at once the seventy-live men of the Seventeeiith Penn- sylvania Cavalry that accompany the train to Martinsburg to-day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. EI)WAR1)S, Colonel, (liomm (indift!, Post. Indorsement.. I HEADQUARTERS, ]Jfartinsbwry, October 2, 1RGimidniqht. [Brigadier- General STEVENSON:] The accompanying dispatches (eight) have just been received, and the report of Colonel Edwards. I forward them to you, and would state that the detention of the train by Colonel Edwards at Winchester may l)revent C eneral Sheridan from receiving the subsistence necessary for his army, and materially interfere with his plans. I make these sunoestions merely, as Colonel Edwards is under ~-our command. I wIll send 100 cavalry back to Winchester to-morrow morning. I will send to Edwards, say, 400 cavalry (from ilagerstown), as soon as I can get them in the saddle. I would suggest that you should send every- thing you may have which will forward the train from Winchester. Very respectfully. THOS. H. NEILL, Brigadier- General, Corn )flC(itdifly, & c. CLARKSBURG, NV. VA., October 2, 18G41O.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. NV. HALLECK, (Received 5 i~. in.) Chief of Sta ft: Reports from the front are contlicting this a. in. I am induced to be- lieve the enemy have fallen back into the mountains of Webster and Braxton Counties. I have sent forward all the mounted men I could raise. All the infantry will follow to-day, leaving the militia to guard the railroad. The rebel force is a portion of the late General Morgans, now iii Echols command. This expedition is under the command of Colonel Witcher, formerly of Wayne County, Va., and is variously estimated at from 1,000 to 2,000. They have robbed the l)eople in their route of horses, cattle, clothing, and moneyin fact, have laid the country waste; made no distinction between Union men and seces- sion sympathizersrobbed all alike. General Sullivan reports that a force of 250 (a portion of the same gang, no doubt) attacked one of his posts at Coalsinouth (Coalsmnouth is a station on the Kanawha River, twelve miles from Charleston), ~nd xvas handsomely repulsed yesterday morning. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet ]Ifajjor- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, hEADQUARTERS, ~o. 40. ( Camberland, Md., October 2, 1864. -~ e - * * II. Lient. Col. John F. Hoy, Sixth West Virginia Infantry Volun teers, having reported to these headquarters for orders (on expiratiom Page 265 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 265 of leave of absence), be is heieby assigue(i to duty as provost-marshal and i)OS~ commandant of this city. lie will enter upon the discharge of his duties at once. ill. Company M, Fifth West Virginia Cavalry, Captain Donohue, now stationed at New Creek, XV. Va., will proceed without delay to this point, and report upon arrival to Col. George H. Lathain, Fifth West Virginia Cavalry. The members of Captain Donohues company who are mounted and supplied with horse equipments will under charge of a commissioned officer, march to this place, bringing with them the led horses of the company. The qnartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation for those not mounted. Lv order of Brevet Major-General Kelley: HEKItY J. JOHNSON, Lieutenant and Acting As8istant A djntant- General. C LARKSI3PRG, October 2, 1864. [Col. GEORGE H. LATIIAN:] COLONEL: You will proceed with your command, via the Ciarksburg and liuckhannon turnpike, to Luckhannon, in Upshur County, W. Va., amu assume command of the troops at that poiiit, and await further cinders, relieving Capt. II. H. Hagans, First West Virginia Cavalry, who will report to you for or(lers. He is thoroughly acquainted with the country amid the people. With his assistance you are expected to keep tile suriounding country well scoated and to kill, capture, and drive off the robbing bands of horse-thieves and guerrillas that infest that vicinity. The command will be provided witti five days rations, in addition to the number now on hand. You will depend upon the country through which you pass for a supply of fresh beef for which a proper voucher, signed by the proper officer, will be given to the owners. Shin gent measures will be adopted to prevent straggling, pillaging, & c. By order of Brevet Major-General Kelley: C. A. FREEMAN, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant A ~jutan t- General. MAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 3, 186411.30 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: My intelligence from telegraphic operators is that theFront Royal road is very little broken, and might be put in ruminning order before Sheridan can get his Sixth and Nineteenth Corps there, say in three days. With a rapid accumulation of rolling-stock of the Governument amind Baltimore road, they could be moved at once to Alexandria, and, with an adequate supply of water transportation, reach you by Saturday morning, if you conclude to adopt Sheridans suggestion of sending them to you. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War Page 266 266 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CITY POINT, VA., October 3, 18647 p. m. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I will follow Sheridans suggestion of bringing the Sixth and Nine- teenth Corps here, and yours as to bringing them by rail fi~om Front Royal. Please have the work on the railroad pushed vigorously. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 3, 1864. Major-General SHERIDAN: The road to Front Royal is within about sixteen miles of that place, and is expected to be completed as far as Piedmont, fourteen miles from Front Royal by Wednesday noon. A large amount of transportation, sufficient to move the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps directly to Alexan- dria, can be collected at Piedmont if you choose that route. The tele- graph will be to Piedmont Wednesday noon, and by courier to Front Royal quick communication may be had. Advise the Department of your wishes, and they shall be promptly carried ont. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War CITY POINT, VA., October 3, 186~i p. m. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Harrison bnrg, Va.: You may take up such position in the Valley as you think can and ought to be held, and send all the force not required for this inunedi- ately here. Leave nothing for the subsistemmee of an army oti any ground you abandon to the enemy. I will direct the railroad to be pushed toward Front Royal, so that you may send your troops back that way. Keep all of Crooks forces and the new troops that have been sent to von. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. [Indorsement.] General ilalleck will please give orders for water transportation of Sixth and Nineteenth Corps from Alexandria to City Point, and make such other needful arrangements as the within dispatch requires for the transportation of the troops. EDWiN M. STANTON, Secret((ry of War. WASHINGTON, I). C., October 3, 186411.30 a. in. Major-General SHERIDAN, Harrisonbnrg, Pa.: Your dispatch of the 1st is just received. The Orange and Alexan- dria road was repaired to the Rappahannock, in the expectation that you would nursue the enemy through the mountains and receive you Page 267 CHAP. IN.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 267 supplies from Culpeper. By General Grants order the workmen have been changed to the iXianassas Gal) road, which will be opene(I to Front iWyal. Thorntons and Chester Gaps should therefore be occupied so as to cover that place. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of ~ta if. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washn~igton, October 3, 18G4. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division, in the Field: Brigadier-General Neill has been relieved at Martinsburg and ordered to report in Washington. Brigadier-General Seward has been assigned to comand at Martinsburg. The Secretary of War would be glad if you can send his old regiments the Ninth New York Artillery, to constitute a part of his force. Acknowledge receil)t. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT.. ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 330. Washington, October 3,18G4. * * * * * * 26. Brig. Gen. Thomas H. Neill, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty at Martin sbnrg, Va., and will report in person to the Adju- tant-General U. S. Army for orders. 27. Brig. Gen. W. H. Seward, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby assigned to command at Martiusburg, Va., whither he will repair, without delay, and relieve Brigadier-General Neill, U. S. Volunteers, reporting by letter to Major-General Sheridan, comnianding Middle Military Division, and to Brigadier-General Stevenson, commandi ii g District Harpers Ferry, Va. He will inform the Adjutant-General by telegraph of his arrival at Martiusburg, Va. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. ADJUTANT -GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, October 3,18G4. Brig. Gen. JAMES D. FESSENDEN, Portland, Me.: You will repair to Harpers Ferry, and thence report for orders to General Sheridan. Acknowledge receipt. By order of the Secretary of War: FL D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 268 268 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [(CHAP. LY~ IIDQRS. 1)EPNRTIXIENT ov WASHINGTON. 221) AIMwiv CORPS, October 3, 1864. Col. J. A. MAUS, 202d Pennsylvania Volunteers: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that you march your regiment, without delay, to Alexandria, reporting on arrival to General Slough. in case your overcoats, & c., have not been received, you will leave an officer to get them and forward them to you. Your obedient servant, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 3, 1864. Lient. Col. .1. H. TAYLOR, (Received 8.30 p. in.) Assistant A djuta ut- General: Colonel Gallupe telegraphs me from Manassas this evening that the Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery is ~mt Gainesville; that he will advance it seventeen miles to-morrow, and move the Two hundred and second Regiment Pennsylvania XTolnnteers to Gainesville. Had I not better move to-morrow the six companies of the Two hundred and first lie 0-uncut to Manassas Junctioni be ready to move They wm~~ 1lt~z~it~ There will be nothing between Bull IRun bridge and Gainesville, if the Two hundred and secoimd is removed to the latter point, if this is not done. Respectfully, yours, JNO. P. SLO UGh, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 221) ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., October 3, 186410.10 p. in. Colonel GANSEVOORT, Commanding Cavalry Brigade, Falls Church Va.: You will prepare one company of your regiment at once for detached service, and send it to Alexandria, to reach that point by 10 a. m. to-morrow. On his arrival there the commanding officer will draw ten days rations of subsistence and forage for his comnmalld, and take the cars for the front, to join the Construction Corps on the Manassas Gap Railroad. This company is to act as couriers between the telegraph office with the Constructioll Corps and Major-General Sheridans head- quarters. You will therefore select the company whose commanding officer and men are most reliable and who are best fitted for this very important duty. Very respectfully, colonel, yonr obedient servant, C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION. Brevet Major- General TORBERT, October 3, 1864. Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: I am instructed by the umajor-general commanding to ilitorm von that there is no force at Cross. Keys. The officer an Page 269 CHAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 269 detachment sent out to Browns Gap yester(lay rel)orted here this morning. He states that there was no force either at Port Republic or ~oss Keys. He was directed to report to you. Very respectfully, & c,, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief o & aff. HEADQITARTEE S MIDDLE MILITARY l)lYLSION, October 3, 1864. General MERRITT, Commanding First Division Cavalry: An officer who came in from Port Republic and Cross Keys reports no pickets at Cross Keys. In your communication of last night you said that three squadrons were there. Cross Keys should be looked ou~ for. Respectfully, P. H. SHERIDAN, Mayor- General. HE ADQUARTER S CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILl TARY DIvISIoN, October 3, 1864. General MERRITT. Commanding First Dicision I refer the inclosed note* just received from army headquarters. The general would like to know whether all the roads on the left of the pike are uncovered. I can~t believe it myself, or you would have noti- tle(l us of the fact. Not having been over the country, 1 cant say pos- itively, but I should think there ought to be a brigade at Cross Keys. Send a diagram just where your men are l)osted. Yours, & c., A. T. A. TORRERT, Bre ret Major- General of Volunteers and Chief of Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVAIRY DIVISION, October 3, 1864. Colonel KIDD: I have just sent orders by a staff officer for you to move your brigade to Cross Keys. 1 hear the regiment at Port Republic has come away; if so, send a regiment there at once. Picket your front at Cross Keys and connect by patrol with regiment at Port Republic. Watch the country well toward Browns Gap aiid Piedmoiit. By all means make frequent reports to these headquarters. Very respectfully, W. MERRITT, Brigadier- General, Commanding. See second, ante Page 270 270 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. HARPEliS FERRY, October 8. idGi. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Just received dispatch from Colonel Edwards, Winchester. He is holding the supply train at that 1)oint. Says that Mosbys and Whites guerrillas are near Newtown; that Seventh Virginia Cavalry (rebel) is near Woodstock, an d abont 2,000 of Eaiiy~ strag~-lers have been organ- ized by a rebel colonel and other officers, near Fishers Hill, to attack trains. Does not think it safe to send trains forward. I send him for- ward this morning from here all the cavalry 1 haveiSO. General Neill will seiid also 400 cavalry from ilagerstown. There are 400 cav- aIry at Winchester, with about 500 infantry, that can be used. 1 think this ample protection for a train of 300 wagons, and have ordered him to forward them at once. I fear he has ait exaggerated report of the enemy, and his delay is ill-timed. There should be in this cominami a cavalry force of at least two frill regiments for that duty. My cav- alry amounts to 236 for (hity, for scouts, couriers, and escorts. This is too small a force at this time. I use all remounted cavalry as fast as furnished, but the iinmbers and time at which they can be had are so uncertain that I cannot make any calculations ll~Oll them~ t merely auxiliaries. , hey are JNO. D. STEVENSON, Briaadier- General. (Copy to Lieutenant-General Grant.) MARTJNSBUR& , October 3, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: General Neill sends this morning to Winchester, to escort the train now detained there, the 300 cavalry which ctame with last train and over 100 from dismounted camp. This deprives us of all guard for the train to-morrow, except 200 infantry. I think it essential that 500 cavalry should come here for to-morrows train. Unless you can get a couple of good cavalry regiments for the express duty of guarding trains, I fear our supplies will be interfered with. C. W. TOLLES, Lient. Col. and Chief Quartermaster Middle Military Divssuon. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, ilarpers Perry, W. Va., October 3, 1864. Colonel EDWARDS, Commanding, Winchester, Va.: COLONEL: I send you 150 cavalry to be used as an additional escort to trains. Send forward as much of the trains at Winchester as you can guard, using all cavalry at hand, as also part of your infantry force if necessary. There must be no delay in sending forward trains if it takes every man. I shall send you at once additional infantry and a battery. There are none of General Kenhys command left at this post. They have either been sent home or sent to General Kelley, at Cimmber- land. I think you overestimate the danger in your front; none of the cavalry reginients of the enemy number more thami 400 men, and as to See Edwards to Neill, October 2, ~. 263 Page 271 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 271 the stragglers from Earlys army. they cannot be very formidable. General Neill will send you tbrward addftional cavalry; he says 400. This will make your guard ample for a train of 200 or 300 wagons. Supplies must go for~vard, even though your post may be skinued dowu to the smallest possible number. Respectfully, JOhN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBURf, W. VA., October 3, 1864. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 1 i~. in.) Chief of Staff: General Wilsou, who is to take command of all of Shermans cavalry, has just reached here, forty-six hours from Sheridan, who was iu Har- risonbnrg. Our cavalry is in undisputed possession of the Valley, destroying all mills ai~d glain in the Valley, and driving iu immense herds of cattle and sheep. Most of the enemys force is at Mechuins Station, covering Charlottesville, on the railroad, about twelve miles east of Waymmesborough and twenty-five miles west of Staunton. No enemy at Stauutou or elsewhere iu the Valley, except iu small disor- ganized bands. T. H. NEILL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, General STEVENSON, ]hlartinsburg, Va., October 3, 1864. Commanding District, & c.: GENERAL: Colonel Edwards reports: The escort bearing dispatches from the front that ~vilI come to hand with this coinninnication were attacked at Edenburg and Strasburg, losing 2 killed and 4 taken prisoners. No dispatches have been forwarded to General Sheridan from tele- gral)h office here, therefore I cannot send duplicates. Very respectfully, THOS. H. NEJLL, Brigadier- General. I do not send a train on the 4th. HARPERS FERRY, October 3, 1864. General NEILL, Ma rtinsbnrg: I sell(l this morning direct to Winchester 150 cavalry as additional escort. What escort do you understamid there ~vill be at Winchester with this force and the 400 cavalry you sent out? I have sent express to Colonel Edwards that the train of Colonel Woods must go forward at once. I think he exaggerated the (langer. I shall send Curries l)rigade, with battery, to Winchester and two regiments to you the very instant I can get them off; by to-morrow if Respectfully, possible. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 272 272 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LV. IIARPEIIS FERRY, October 5, 1864. Brigadier-General NEILL, Martinsbwrg Major Otis will send you 200 cavalry to-night. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier-General. CLARKSBUR~, W. WA., October .1, i86i~ ((. m. Maj. Gen. H. 1AT HALLECK, (Received 1.10 p. iii.) Chief of kStafl: Nothing new this a. m. I go to Weston this morning. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet ]lfajor- General. CUMBERLAND October :; 18 Major-General KELLEY, 64. Weston: Lewis reports Harness in conhlnall(I of MeNeihls and his own com- pany; McNeill wounded. He also reports that a (ietachment started on Saturday to capture the train at or near Big Cacapori. W. B. KELLEY, Aide-dc- Camp. General KELLEY, CUMBERLAND, Mm, October 8, 1864. Clark-sb arg, ITT Va.: Colonel Lathain is here. All his detachments but Captain Donohues company will arrive to-day. He wishes it ordered np. Shall [issue the order ~ HENRY J. JOHNSON, Lientenant, ct-c. Licut. H. J. JOHNSON, WESTON, W. VA., October 8, 1864. Aide-de- Camp, Camberland: Order Captain Donohue to Cuinberland, to report to Colonel Lathain. All quiet here. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY Washington, D. C., October 4, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: GENERAL: I perceive from your dispatch which passed through last evening to General Sheridan that you propose to withdraw a large por- tion of his troops from the Valley. rVl)is will make it necessary to adop Page 273 (Jar. LY.J COflEBPONDENOE, ETC.UNION. 278 a line of defense against rebel raids. If troops can be spared for that purpose, some point south of the Potomac should be fortified strong enough to resist any coup de sefta, and garrisoned with a force. which can operate against a rebel advance either down the Shenandoah or the Loudoun Valley. Winchester and Strasburg are both reported a inde- fensible except by very extensive lines and large garrisons. I do not know that Front Royal has been examined by engineer officers in regard to its defensive character. I am of the opinion, hdwever, that the proper position for such occupation can be found atManassas Gap, or in its vicinity, so that the garrison may operate on either side of the Blue Ridge, as occasion may require. The place so selected and forti- fied nhould have several months supplies and be capable of making a strong and long resistance to an attacking force. It can be communi- cated with by the Manassas railroad, which must be protected by intrenched garrisons a; Thoroughfare Gap and Manassas Junction, and by cavalry pickets pn Broad Run and across to Chester Gap and Sires- burg or Woodptock. In order to keep up communication on this line to Manassas Gap and the Shenandoah Valley, it will be necessary to send South all rebel inhabitants between that line and the Potomac, and also to completely clean out Mosbys gang of robbers who have so long infested that district of country, and I respectfully suggest that Sheridans cavalry should be required to accomplish this o1~ject before it Is sent elsewhere. The two small regiments under General Augur have been sooftencutupbyMosbysbandthat theyarecowedand useless for that purpose. If these disiiositions are approved and carried out, it will not be necessary to keep so large a force at Harpers Ferry and guarding the canal and Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. As soon as we can open the road to Piedmont, I will send Colonels Alexander and Thom, of the enjineers, to examine the localities above mentioned with reference to fortifications, and to confer with General Sheridan. I will also send General Sheridan a copy of this letter. I have no doubt that General Crook might be able to select some points in the great North Mountain or Alleghany Ridge by which a small force could prevent rebel cavalry raids into West Virginia, and thus avoid the necessity of keeping upsomany posts there. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, Major-General awl Chief of Stay Can POINT, VA., October 4, 18642 p. en. (Received 3.30 p. in.). Ma~Jor-General HALLUK, Waeldugt ow., D. C.: In moving Sheridans force here, move one division of cavalry sa fast as possible. Send all the cavalry horses that can possibly be raised in the meantime. There is danger of the enemy returning a portion of their cavalry here and annoying us greatly with raids on our rear and along the river. la it not possible to get all the new troops now in the depots to the front at once. I hear of thousands of men all over the North. U. S. GRANT Lienta ant-d emwal. 18 N R~OL flflI~ PT f Page 274 274 OPERATfONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CliAP. LV. CONFIDENTIAL.] WASHINGTON 0 etober 4, 1864. Brigadier~Genera1 MEIGS, Quartermaster- General GENERAL: You will immediately take measures to collect at Alex- andria water transportation for the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps, of General Sheridans army, to City Point. They will ~)robably 50011 leave the Valley by Manassas and Thoroughfare Gaps. Very respectftully, H. W. HALLECK, iftyor- General and Chief of Staffi CAMDEN STATION, Ba it jrn ore, October 4, 1864. lion. C. A. J)ANA, Assistant Secrete ry oJ lie); All our troop cars are fully occupied in military movements upon our road ami branches, and to send thirty cars to the Northern Central will cause delays that may prove injurious. Allow me to suggest that the Pennsylvania Central can supply the Northern Central at Harris- burg, thus saving much delay in placing the cars at Elmira. Under the circumstances, please advise, at d your instructions sit all have prompt attention. To economize time., I forward the same suggestion to Mr. Cameron, at Harrisburg. J W. GARRETT. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MiLITARY DIViSION, Harrisonburg, Va., October 4, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR: Lient. John ZR. Meigs, Engineer Corps, S. Army, serving on Major- General Sheridans staff, was killed by guerrillas about 8 p. in. yester- day, between Bridgewater and Harrisonburg. His body has just been found, and will be forwarded to-day to Martirisburg. JAS. W. FOHSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief f $~ff HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, October 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. P. SLOUGH, Military Governor of Ale andria: GENERAL: Move the six companies Two hundred and first Penn- sylvania Volunteers at your own discretion. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, 6hief of AStaft and Assistant Adjutant-General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 4, 1864. (Received 1 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL: SIR: Colonel Galinpe reports by telegraph that Colonel Lazelle has furnished hiiii the information that there is a force of 40() or $~)O of the eneit ys (ava Iry lying about Pied mont. Respectfully, J. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General Page 275 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UN1ON. 275 ALEXANDRIA, October 4, 1864. Maj, Geii. C. C. AUGUR, (Received 3 p. in.) Corn man ding Department ~f Washington: GENERAL: Colonel 0-allupe telegraphs me that the train guard has been fired into by about 200 of the enemy about two miles east of Gala esville. No particulars recei ve(l. The cavalry company has arrived, forty strong, in command of First Lient. H. F. Pugh, Company E, Thirteenth New York Cavalry. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier-General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 4, 1864. A SSI8TANT AD.TUTANTGENERAL, (Received 5.40 ~. iii.) ileadqaarters Department 9/ Washington SIR: The six companies of the Two hundred and first Pennsylvania Volunteers have been sent to Maiiassas. Nothing else to report. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, I3r~gadier- General. MANASSAS JI7NcTIoN, October 4, 1864. (Received 11 a. in.) Major-General AUGUR: 1 have just returned from within four miles of Culpeper Court- House. There are no troops there or in that viciiiity. They are making no preparations to advance in this direction. There are no troops at Gordoiisville or its apl)roaches, this side, except at Gordonsville a por- tion of a regnuent guarding a recruiting camp for disabled horses, a provost guard conscripting, and a lPw conscripts. Early has been re- enforced by about 5,0(10 men sent forward with Longstrcet, who has been sent to take command in the Valley; also Pickett~s division and Rossers brigade of cavalry. Such are the current reports below. H. M. LAZELLE, Colonel~ Sixteenth Regiment New York Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRiGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Va., October 4, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, ChiJ of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General COLONEL: I have the hoiior to report my return to this point this evening. I telegraphed the substance of what I had to report this morning from Catietts Statioii. I omitted to say that one week since Kershaws division left Culpeper Court-House for Gordonsville, and a few days since left Gordonsyille to join Early. It was his division which attacked us before near Culpeper Court-House. It had just come (lown from the Valley there the day previous to my arrival, and was on its way to join Lee at Rielunond. - I have this information from the Hon. John Minor Botts, at Brandy Station. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Comndg. Cavalry Brigade Page 276 276 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. L~. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, ~Tear Port Buffalo, Va., October 4, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and A& iistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to state thlt the company orderd from the Thirteenth New York Cavah ~ in the dispati ot hist iiight, left camp to-day in time to reach Aleaudna it the desigiiated hour. As Colonel Lazelle took the greater poition of duty men o the Thirteenth New York Cavalry, being details fioin its dith~reiit companies, besides the number from his own regiment it w is difficult to send an entire company from the Thirteenth New 101 k however, the largest, and, in fact, only approach to a company left in that regiment, was sent as soon as those absent were relieved from picket; it numbered, all told, forty-three men. Very respectfully, your obedient servam it, H. S. (TXNSLXOOIU, Colonel Thirteenth j\Tejr York loluntecr Cacairm (?omnnianding. hARPERS FEnur, October 4, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel KELLOGG, Miartinsburg: I sent dispatch by courier to General Neill last night. Tell Colonel Tolles I will send Curries brigade to Winchester, by Bunker Hill, to- morrow morning to escort his train to front. Have you heard from Colonel Woods train, whether it left or not. ;JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brijadter- General. hARPERS FERRY, October i, 1861. Lieutenant-Colonel TOLLES, Chief Quartermaster: Curries brigade will march to-morrow morning for Winchester as escort to the train. i-lad you better not hold your train until evening, so as to let Currie park it at Bunker Hill, where lie will make his camp to-morrow night~ if you think your escort strong ~ongh through to Winchester, Currie can catch up with train there. Instruct tram, at all events, to wait for Currie at Winchester. Answer. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINsEITEG, October 4, 18644 p. m. General STEVENSON: The train cannot get away before noon, and will wait for Currie. If possible, I would like it to get to Winchester to-morrow night, but the escort will not be strong enough, unless Currie is ordered to march there. C. W. TOLLES, Chief Quartermaster Page 277 C1LAI~. LXS CORRESPONDENCE. ETCUNION. 277 HARPERS FERRY, NV. VA., October 4, 1864. Colonel Cuu~in, Comm an drug Brigade, Bolivctr Heights: COLONEL: You will move out proin~)tly at the hour designated, and niareli with all 1)o~sibie speed to Bunker Hill, where you will meet sill)- ply train troiti iMartinsbarg. Take charge 01 the train, consolidatiiio the escort with your colniiiand, and imsit on for Winchester. If you find no orders from General Sheridan with Colonel Edwards, push fbr- ward for Sheridans command. It is important for the train to reach him by the 9th instant, at the latest. Respectfully. JOHN I). STEVENSON, 13ru,adwr- Generat. SnECJAJ. ORDERS, Hi)QRS. MIL. 1)1ST. OF HARPERS FERRY, No. 49. Harpers Perry, ITa., October 4, 1864. * * * * * 12. Colonel Currie, with his brigade, will move at 7 a. m. to-morrow inornin g for Winchester. lie will, upon arriving there, report to Col- onel Edwards, commanding post, to escort first supply train to General Sheridan, ~vlmerever he may be ti~nd. By order of Brigadier-C eneral Stevenson: S. F. ADAMS, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Wine/,esUr, Va., October 4, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding District ~t Harpers Perry: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of October 3, with 150 cavalry of Twelfth Virginia; 400 cavalry liourtli Virginia r ported last evening. The supply train 200 wagons) leaves here 5.30 this a. in. Escorts with dispatches fioma the front have to cut their way through, and generally lose half of their mcmi. Prisoners gmvin~ themselves tip on the route report 5.000 to thOt)0 aria e(l stra~lers im the vicinity of Fishers Elill; I think there- are ~)rcbai)ly about 1,500 of them. Prisommeis also report many oIhcer~ with them; one, a eclonel, was trying to organize theni. Omie conipany of the Seventh Virginia Cavalry (rebel) is in the vicinity of Strasburg. I think a train of 200 wagons should have aii escort of I,00t~ infantry amd 500 cavalry, goimig to the flout. The train going out thii~ morning will have nearly 1,500 escort. I have used every effort to torwarci them as soon as possible. The train from Harpers Ferry, comnian(Ied by Colonel ileine, reached the front omi the evening of October 1. 1 do not think I overestiin ate the damuger between here and the front. Excuse mne for not addressimmg this to your adjutant-general, as I do not know his name or rank. General Wilson passed through here to day. TIe represents the army to be well supplied. TIme train that leaves this morning will reach time fromut before their rations are out. Very respectfully, your obedien t servant, 0. EDWARI)S, Colonel, Comm and-in ~j Page 278 278 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., XV. VA., MD., ANI) PA. ~CHAP. LV. MARTINSBLTRG, October 4, 18641 p. rn. General STEVENSON: I start a train of 561 wagons to-morrow morning, 5th, at (laylight, for Winchester. I have only 490 infantry and cavalry to start with. The last 200 cavalry have not arrived from you. Will you please hurry them up. Will you please order Curries brigade to start early so as to meet the train at Bunker Hill. Please reply at once. T. H. NEILL, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, October 4, 1864. Brigadier-General NEILL, ~lfartinslnoy: Carries brigade starts to-morrow morning; l)nt if your train leaves at 5 oclock he caiiuot ~)ossibly catch up before he ~ets to Winchester. As the train will have to lay by at Witichester tbr him it ha I better not start until to-morrow evening, and park at Bunker Hill, ~vhere Currie can meet it. his command ivill camp at Bunker Hill tomorrow night. I sent you all cavalry I had this eveninglOU men. Answer. JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brif/aclier- General. MARTINSBURQ October 4, 1864. General STEVENSON: I will detain train. THOS. H. NEILL, Brigadier- General. WESTON, W. VA., October 4, 18(14. Lieut. Col. J. S. McDoNALD: You are directed to move, upon the arrivalof supplies, with yonr coin- easy to , . ., nd repair the fortifications inand, by marches, Bulitown W Va a and place that post in the best condition for defense, and keep the surronuding country thoroughly scouted, extending south to Sutton. Stringent orders will be enforced, prohibiting the interference in any manner whatever with private l)roperty by the men of your command. Sapphies for the coniiuand will be sent you regularly from Clarksburg, upon makiiig proper ~eqnisitions therefor. For cattle and forage taken for the subsistence of the men and animals of your commall(l, proper Vouchers must be given, and the amount forwTarded to the depot com- missary and quartermaster at Clarksbnrg. You will report to Col. N. Wilkinson, Sixth West Virginia Inflmntry, at Cl arksburg, coniman ding troops west of Piedmont, and keep him fully advised of all matters of interest. By order of Brevet Major-General Kelley: C. A. FREEMAN, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant A Jj atant- General. WESTON, W. VA., October 4, 1864. Captain SHEETS, New Creek: Keep your scouts active and the country thoroughly scouted. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General Page 279 GHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 279 CUMBERLAND, October 4, 1864. W. P. Siurrn, Martiusbury: The general has gone west. Left here on Thursday night. Is at Buckhannon to-day. I will arrange to semi a guard of twenty men, all we can spare, on eastern 1)01111(1 train, as fir as Sir Johns Run. Our iiiforination was that a party started for the roa I on Saturday, but I think they have gone back, or they wouhi have attempted to capture the train ere this. W. B. KELLEY, Aide-dc- Camp. WESTON, October 4, 186-1. (Received 5th.) Brigadier-General SULLIVAN: The enemy have retreated. The expe~fhtion was commanded by Colonel \Vitcher, and tile force about ii, OUt); they are pooriy a~med, but are now L)retty well mounted. They left Jefferson ville, in Tazewell County, an(1 caine via Princeton ; crossell New hiver l)etweeu the Nar- ruw-s; timemice came through Union, Lewisburg, Ernnkfort, Cold Kimob, into l3raxtou alm(1 Lewis Counties. I presume they will return the ~a~ne way. If you could imiterce~t them about tile NarrowS oi~ at Princeton I think capture or dispersn)n would be an easy affihir. 1 go to Backhau- nOli to-morrow; shah seimd a force to occul)y Bulitown, with instruc- tions to keep the country well scouted as ihr as ~uttorm. B. F. KELLEY, llreret Major- General. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY Co~ips, Baltimore, Md., October 4, 1864. Lient. Col. S. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General: You will observe the following directions respecting the coming elec- tions: I. In the city of Baltimore I particularly (lesire to avoid the slightest demonstration lookimi g to military interference. In 110 case must bodies of armed soldiers be allowed to approauh time polls, except to put down an outbreak for which the police are imisufficient, amid theum the mayor must first apply to you for assistance for that purpose. II. To those districts in which the judges of election have formally solicited military l)rotection, by petitmoims, sug~ted by them, amid for- warded to headquarters, do not hesitate to send troops. As to the number of troops to be sent to such districts, be goverimed by the opin- iou of the judges of electiomi. Looking to the safety of the soldiers, it is better, mu case of doubt, to send a sti-ong detachment than a weak one. III. As the object of sending these detachments is purely to protect and support the jn(lges of election in enforcing time law regulating time exercise of the votimig privilege (see time constitution to be subunitLed), the officers in cli aro-e wiil be ordered to I)rocee(1 to the designated (us- trict or precinct, and report to the ,judges themmiselves, and iliformn them that they have beeim ordered to so report, amid pI~mce tlmemsel.ves amid their comunmands subject to the orders of such judg9s, by wlmomn they must be govermied throughout the two days of the election Page 280 280 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CEo. LV. Unless such judges request interference, under no circumstances must they Interfere, either by stationing guards at the polls, sending out patrols, arrestlngpersons offering to rote, dispersing crowds, or in any other manner. Unless otherwise requested by the judges, they must not oven post their detachment within one mile of the polls. Nothing In the above paragraph, however, must be construedto pro. hibit them from taking such action as may be necessary, in their judg. ment, to repel or prevent any contemplated assault ujon their detach. ments. In this, each one must exercise a send discretion, for which he will be held to strict accountability. Each officer will be required to keep. his men together and at their arms, ready for instant action; he must also see that they do not talk to any person unnecessarily, and particularly on politics or the sub. jects involved in the electionsthis to avoid the possibility of dieputa. don and ultimate personal collisions. The detaclnnents will each take forty ronds of ammunition per m*n and five days rations. When the election is over the officers will return their commands to Balti. more as soon as possible. IV. As to other districts upon request for military guards, accom- panied by satisfactorrprools, such as affidavits or petitions of citizens undoubtedly loyal, that there is an intention or conspiracy to deprive the Union voters of their ii ht to vote,.to s4nd at the polls, to chal. lenge, or to observe the con duct of the judges of election iii the per- formance of their duties, send detachments to such places, If you have them to spare. The orders to officers in charge in such cases must be specific: 1. Not to attempt to compel any judge to do his duty or to comply with any requirement of the law, but simply to protect a men from violence, injury, or molestation. 2. For this purpose such officers will notify the judges, and all other citizens who may inquire what their orders are, and for what object they have been sent The foregoing regulations as to outfit, supply, and conduct of the men will apply to these latter detachments. You had better print the orders for suck officers use, observing that more judgment will be required in the case of detachments sent upon nest of citizens than in that of those sent at the instance of the ju ges of election. You had better also print separate instructions in the two cases In cases not provided for in the above instructions act according to your judgment, recollecting that I am governed in this matter by the principle that, as far as possible, loyal men must be protected in all their rights. LEW. WALLACE, Afajor-Gener4 Commanding. I have not time to copy. Frame your instructions on this alone and preserve It. Li. W. WAsHINGToN, D. 0., October 4,1864. Brig. Gen. B. DnAnuw, Ok& sf B*gineer, Washington: Sm: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations on the defenses of Washington during the year ending September 3(1,1864: These defenses, as now constructed, consist, in the aggregate, of 60 lncltsed forte, having an aggregate crest of 25,799 yards, with emplace Page 281 Czar. LY.J COflESPONPENCE, EtO.UNION. 281 ments for 958 guns, and of 93 batteries, having emplacements for 491 guns, and of 35,711 ytrds of infantry parapet or covered way; to which should be added about 33 miles of military roads, which have been built for purposes of communication where the existing roads of the country would not fulfill that pjirpose. A mere statement like this of the number of these works will conv.y some idea of the magnitude of undertaking to defend a great cit ,when it is essential to preserve iton account of its being the seat of Govermnent, containing the Gov. eminent machinery, from the long-range guns of modern artillery. And such a statement will be apc to convey to allunmilitary minds the idea of enormous strength, a strength vastly greater than we actually possess. It should be borne in mind that these works are stretched out over a long line, some 3? miles in extent inclosing the cities of Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria, and that we have, in most cases, only a single line of defense, which, If once forced by an enemy, we have nothing between him and the public buildings and archives but our reserves, with the chances of battle in the open field. This consideration ought to show us the necessity of ma g this line a strong one; and if it does not suggest an additional interior line of defense, it will, at least, convince us of the necessity of having at all - times, when there is a possibility of attack, the fotts well garri- soned with practiced artillerists and a strong reserve within the de- fenses. In other words if we should be attacked by a powerful army, Washington City would become, in a military sense, not a walled city with gates, but a great intrenched camp, requiring a large army for its detitnse, the defensive works Atanding for a 9ertaln number of me; enabling, perhaps, all other things being equal, 25,000 men in them to. repel the attacks of 50,000, or 50000 to repel 100,000, or 100,000 to repel 200,000. With these remarks, I proceed to a report of the work on the defenses during the past year. I will first take up the delbuses south of the Potomac. These consist of thirty-one forts, having an aggregate crest line of 12,504 yards, with emplacements for 540 guns, and 42 batteries, having emplacements for 229 guns, and 20,8011 yards of rufiepits or covered way for infantry. This includes only work now essentially completed or ready for its armament, and does not embrace work par- tially completed or in contemplation. The present actual armament is 377 guns and 30 mortars. The woit done 6uring the past yearor from October 1,1883, to September 30, 1804can best be detailed by taking up each fort separately. Fort Marcy: The front parapet has been raised and newly revetted, new platforms and embrasures made, termeplein graded and paved, gutters laid, new magazine made, abatis repaired, and the interior of the fort sodded. Fort Ethan Allen: The abatip has been removed, most of the embra- sum newly revetted with gabions, platforms repaired, anda new bomb- proof 230 feet long has been built; the southwest bastion has been cut off from the main work by a Ijue of stockade, with gateiray; one of the old magazines has been rebuilt, and a new bomb-proof guardhouse constructed. Fort 0. F. Smith: i~hfs work, nearlycompleted at date of last report, has been completed and sodded. Fort Strong: A new bomb-proof 280 feet long has been constructed, ts re-enforced and newly revetteci, scamp built up from bottom of ditch on 415 degrees slope, three new traverses built, and the interior of fort sodded, and new platforms and embrasures mad Page 282 282 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. Fort Woodbury: Parapets re-enforced, scarp built up on 45 degrees slope; new bomb-proof constructed 1St) feet long; new magazine and new filling- room constructed, and three traverses made and interior revetinent rebuilt. Fort Cass: Parapets have been re-enforced, scarp built up 011 45 degrees slope, new citibrasures and platforms made, one traverse built and new bomb-proof seventy-two fret long put up, old flankers torn dowmi and capolkiere pnt in stockade gorge. Fort Tillinghast: 1~arapets re-enforced, scarp built up oniS degrees slope, new- interior revetment put up, eambrasures and platfommns re- paired; bomb-proof commenced at date of last report has been coin- plete(l, two iiew traverses built, two itiagazi nes rebuilt, abatis renewed, flankers torn dow-n, and two redans for flankimig stockade gorge put up, tn(l iLterior of fort 5otl(le(l. Fort Craig: Parapets re enforced, new interior revetment put lip, abatis renewe(l; bomb -proof commenced at (late of last report has been conIl)leted, two new traverses built, interior of fort sodded, two flankers torn down, aimd two redans for flanking put imp iii stockade gorge. Fort Richardson: The scarp of this work has been revetted with plank, and sodding rei )aire(l. Fort Berry: A new bomb-proof guard-house has been built and fort sodded. Fort Barnard: Scaip has been re~-etted with plank, new magazines built, emminbrasures newly rex-ette(l with gabions, an(1 so(l(ling repaired. Fort Reynolds: Intem iom revetment has been repaired, amid embrasures newly revettc(l with gabions. Battery Garesclm(K A new traverse has been built. Foit \Vard: This fort has been torn down amid newly constructed and enlarged to nearly twice its original size; three newr magazines aud all servim two new filling or un plement rooms have been built, ingas traverses; one bomb-proof 208 feet long has beemi built, and ammother of same lemigth is iii course of construction. The new fort is now nearly conml)leted, and is one of the strongest works on tIme defuses. Fort Ellsworth: Time old bomb-proofs and lra\-erses have i)een torn dowin, two new minmagazines have been built, an(1 a new bonib-proof 160 fret long is in course of constructi(mn an(1 nearly completed. Forts Lyon, Weed, Farmmsworthm, ORorke, and Willard: Interior revetments have been repaired, crests sodded, embrasures revetted. Portions of the exterior slopes of the four latter works have been sodded. Battery Rodgers, nearly completed at date of last report, has been finished, inclosed, and sodded. INTERIOR LINE. Fort Bennett: Magazine has been re-enforced. Fort Corcoramin: One magazine has been rebuilt and the other two re-enforced; a new bomb-proof IS-S fret long has been built; interior revetment repaired; embrasures newly revetted, amid seven new plat. formus and enibrasures immade. Fort Whipple: At date of last report this work Was nearly completed; since that date two filling-rooms (traverses) amid one bomb-proof guard-imonse have beemm built, the terre-pleins graded, amid the interior of the work completely so(l(led. Fort Albmy: Scarp revetment has been repaired, and some altera- tions in platforms and embrasures made Page 283 CHAP. LVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. BATTERIES AND IUFLE-PITS. Auxiliary to Fort Whipple Thur batteriesmounting respectively seven, loin, ten, and four; aggregate. twenty-live gunshave been built, and 800 yards of rifle-pit or infantry covered way has been thrown up. Across the valley of Four Mile IRnn, about ~50 yar(ls of heavy covered way has been thrown up, with wet ditch in front. Around and anxili rv to Fort Williams, 1,200 yards of rife-pit or infantry covered way have been thrown up, and two batteries, mount- ing live guns each, have beeu built.. Between Forts Williams and Ellsworth, two batteries, mounting respectively seven and eight guns, have been built, and 100 yards of info iitry l)arapet thrown up. A l)attely mounting five guns has beeii 1)uilt to right of Fort Lyon, together with fifty yards of rifle-pit. NEW FORTS. A new fort between Forts Strong and Woodbnry, having 322 yards of crest line and i~~oiiiiting fifteen guns, has been neai ly completed and is now nearly ready for its armament. It has one magazine, three traverses, and a bomb-proof, just commenced, 150 feet long. A new lort between Forts Whipple an(i Albany, on interior line, having 539 yards of crest line and a proposed armament of timirty-thi ee guns, has been commenced. The parapets are about halt thrown up and some 10() yards of pole revetment completed. A stockade, with gateway, has been built across the Leesbnrg turn- pike to right of Fort Marcy, and some 150 yards of abatis laid in front of rifle-pit to the Potomac River. A stockade, with gates, has also been built across approach to Aque- duct Bridge, and some seventy-five yar(ls of rifle-pit thrown UI) in con- nection therewith. MILiTARY ROADS. The following military roads have been built during the year: Aque- dut Bridge to Fort C. F. Smith, one mile and a third; Fort C. F. Smith to Fort Strong, including branch, two-thirds of a mile; Aque- duct Bridge to Foit Whipple, omme iimile and a half; Camp Barnard to Fort Whipple, one mile and a quarter; Four-Mile Run to Fort Ward, two miles and a half; total, seven miles and a quarter. Two large block-houses have been comnienced and nearly completed in valley of Hunting Creek These have beemi built by the quartermnas- ter (lepartment, under time direction of the chief engimmeer of the de- fen ses. CONDITION OF THE WORKS. With a few exceptions, tIme forts south of time Potomac are now very complete as to their interior arrangements. Most of them are provided with goo(l bonib-proofs, magazines, imuplement and filling rooms, and traverses where required. In nearly all of them the platforms and embrasures have been repaired during time past season and are now in good order. The exterior slopes oii the limme from Fomt Smitim to Fort Berry (nine forts), inclusive, have been built up on 45-degree slope Page 284 284 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. tOE.. LV. from the bottom of the ditch, and only require sodding to make them stand for many years. Three other works, Forts Albany, Richardson, and Barnard, bare their scarps revetted with plank; and one other, (iareacb6, has its tarp revetted with stockade. Forts Ward and Will. lams have also exterior slopes of 45 degrees, which, when sodded, will make them pennanent. Some of the older works, as Forts Worth, Ellsworth, and Lyon, yet require extensive repairs, Fnd Fotts Strong, Cass, and Craig require new magazines. WORK PROPOSE!) TO BE DONE. First. Work now in progress and which it is expected to complete this season: Fort Strong: Two new magazines to be built. Fort Ethan Allen: Bomb.proof covering to be completed, trimmed, and sodded. Fort Morton: Bomb.proof to be built and fort to be trimmed and sodded. Fort Woo4bury: Bomb-proof to be completed and fort to be sodded. Fort Can: Two new magazines to be built and fort to be sodded. Fort Craig: Two new magazines to be.built. Fort Ward: Bomb-proofs to be completed, terre-plein graded, and the work to be sodded. Fort Ellsworth: Bomb-proof to be completed, tene.plein gra& led, and work to be sodded. Completion of two block-bourn and battery in valley of Hunting Creek. Second. New works contemplated for the next year: The new fort between Forts Whipple and Albany; this is an exten- sive work and will require many months to complete It. A batteryfor field gnus to left of Chain Bridge to command Leesburg road and val- ley of Pimmit Run. A battery to left of Fort Corcoran. A fort at Columbia turnpike in front of Fort Richardson. A block-house between Fort Ward and Battery Garesch6, on Leesburg pike. The commission appointed by the Secretary of War also recommended two large forts to be built in front of that portion of the line from Fort Smith to Fort Cmi. Third. Repairs necessary to be made: The abatis reqnires to be renewed along the whole fin, from Fort Albany to Fort Lyon, inclusive, with the exception of Forte Berry, Garesch6, Ward, and Williams. - will be required next season at tine following forts: j~ew magazines j, two; Corcoran, two; Scott, one; Richardson, one; Reynolds, ones Worth, two; Lyon, one; total, ten. dewbomb-proofs will be required at Forts Albany and Worth, and probably at Forts Barnard and Reynolds. New interior revetments will be required at most of the old works not already revetted, probably at Forts Reynolds, Scott, Worth, Ells- worth, and Lyon. Re enforcement of arapets will be required at several of the old works, viz, Ethan en, II~ry, Corcoran, Scott, Reynolds, Worth, Ellsworth, and Lyon, and in its dependent redoubts. Revetment of scarpa will be required either by sodding the whole exterior slopes at all the forts on the line not already revetted on an angle of 45 degrees by a scarp wall of brick or stone, or by a scarp revetment of plan Page 285 (3w. LV.) OORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 286 The repairs needed at Fort Worth are so extensive as to amount nearly to rebuildii;g.the entire fort, as has been done at Fort Ward. Military roads are required to be built as follows From Fort Whipple, passing to rear of Forts Tillingliast mid Craig, (Iowa the ravine in front of Fort Albany, to connect with the road to Convalescent Camp, a distance of one mile and five sixths, whence there is now a good road to Fort Ward; thence a road from Fort ~Vard, passinp to rear of Forts Worth and Williams, to i~Ilsworth, a probable distance of two miles and a halt. Also a road from Fort ORorke to Fort Willard, and branch to Fort Farnsworth, a distance of one mile and 245 feet In addition to the work mentioned above as in progress or content plated to be done, thereare two or three other works with reference to which no decision has been made, though the matter has been under consideration. DEFENSES NORTH OP THE POTOXA0. These consist of 29 forts, having a total length of 13,295 yards of crest of parapet, with emplacement. for 410 guns, 55 batteries, hay- big 3,510 yards of crest of parapet, with emplacements for 262 guns, and 14,842 yards of infantry parapet or covered way. Tine armament of these works at present is 385 guns and 38 mortars. During the past year the force employed has been engaged asfoliows: Fort Foote: Completing the fort, with its connterscarp galleries. Fort Oreble: Constructing two new magazines, boznbproofs, trav- erses, and repairing parapet Fort Carroll: Constructing four bastions, new magazine implement room (house), traverses, platforms, embrasures, repairing old revet- ments, grading glacis, and renewing abatis. Fort Snyden: Repairing parapet and constructing new platforms. Fort Stanton: Constructing three bastions, two new maqazines, bomb.proofs, traverses, platforms, embrasures, grading glsom, and renewing abatis. Forts Rickette, Wagner, Davis, and Du Pont: Repairing parapets and revetments, and constructing new platforms and embrasures. Fort on hill south of Fort Maban, proposed to be called Fqrt Chaplin: Constructing the fort, which is a new one and nearly finished. Fort Mahan: Repairing and enlarging the rifle-pits and construct- ing a new battery. Battery Jameson: Repairing and improving parapet, rebuilding bomb-proofs and platforms. Fonts Lincoln, a er, Saratoga, Bunker Hill, and Slemmer: Repair- ing old revetment, parapets, and sodding; completing several batteries between these works. Fort Totten: Repairing magazine, revetment, and parapet; sodding; building a part of the scarp wall with stone, and renewing abatis. Forts Slocum and Stevens: Repairing parapets, grading glacis, and renewing abatis; clearing trees and completing batteries between the forts~ constructing a battery and infantry parapet to left of Book Creek bridge, back of military road. Forts De Hussy and Kearny: Repairing parapets and sodding. Forts Reno, Bayard, Simmons, and Mansfield: Repairing and sod- cling parapets; completiig batteries and forts, and laying abatis. Fort Sumner: Repairing the parapets and magazines; constructing two traverses in Redoubt Davis Page 286 286 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. L~ Two new batteries near canal: Constructing the batteries 0110 of which is finished anti the other nearly done. In nearly all of the forts new platforms were constrncte(1 after the report of the board of officers ordered to revise the armament. Great quantities of bushes have been cut iii front of the works, and some woods and orchords Idled in tile neighborhoo(ls of Forts Stevens, Slocum, aii(I Mahian. These works are. generally speaking, in goo(l couditioii, so far as their interior arran geinents are (01 cerned, the l)rincipal deTect being the want of good strong abatis aroulI(l some of the f9rts. They have all been provided with abatis, but some of it is over three years old, and so rotten aid broken as to be almost useless as a means of defrn~e and so dry as to be easily set on fire. The parapets of some of the forts have been slcped aiti sodded, but in many others this has iiot beemi done, and the slopes are iiiore or less washed out of shal)e in consequence. Each fort is provide(1 with at least one goo(1 (Iry in ga- zinc, and nearly all have L)olub-proofs. In sime of tie forts, however, bomb-proofs have never been built, but it is proposd to construct them as soon as the completion of more imni)ortallt works on the line will permit. The present length of the military road, with its branches, is about eighteen miles. it is in a passable condition, but liee(1s repairs in some places. The work remaining to be (lone iS as follows: Fort Foote: A battery on the hank of the river in rear of Fort Foote, to flank th*water approach to that work, should be constructed, amid a redoubt should be built on Rosiers lull, which is the key of the posi- tioim. Fort Carroll requires a ime xv in agazi mie anti born b-proof. Fort Stanton requires a battery and some rifle-pits to s ~eep the ravine iii front. Anacostia Bridge requires a block-house or other protection to the head of the bvidge. Fort Baker needs aim a(lditional bomb-proof; also a battery and covered way to sweep the ravine in front. Fort Baker to Fort Mahami: rpliis line requires additional defenses not yet determined. Fort Mahami requires a bomb-prooL and two new magazines. Eastern l3rancli: Sonic (lefeIm.~es on the west bank are required to l)revent the crossing of the stream an(l to flank the approach to Fort Mahan. Fort Lincoln requires a new magazine; also counterscarp galleries to flank the ditches. - Forts Thayer, Saratoga, Bunker lull, and Totten require new mag- azmnes. Fort Slocum requires a new magazine and bomb-proof in the old fort. Fort Stevens: Part of the abatis of this fort wamits renewing, and a flanking battery or infantry paral)et On the right of the fort would add greatly to its strength. Forts IDe hussy, Kearny, IReno, Bayird, Simmons and Ma are all in good condition. usfield Fort Sumner requires a new mnaga zinc in each redoubt; also a bonmb- proof. Battery Martin Scott anti Cli ai mm-Bridge Battery req imire repairs. Aqueduct Bridge: A small battery should be built to sweep this bridge Page 287 Ca~. LVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 28~1 In addition to the work detailed above, the greater number of the l)resellt forts require sodding; many require new abatis, re vetmeut of breastlieiglits, atid scarpK The new magazines stated above as needed are to replace those first constrn~ted, which were bnilt of white pine boards and frame, in the qnickest manner, when the earlier forts were l)eing hastily thrown up. The boards ef these buildings are now rotting out, cansiag leaks, which render the magazines niitit for the safe keeping of ammnnition. They slionid be rebnilt in a more lermallent manner of logs an(l oak boards. Some of the forts have never been provided with bomb-proofs and filling-rooms, which are very necessary. MILITARY II OAJ)8. No proper military roa(l has yet been constructed to connect the works over the Eastern Branch. Such a road is a very nsefal and essential part of f lie system of the (lefenses. Again, that lortion of the military rca(l between Fort Stevens and Fort Lincoln was made more with a view of taking advantage (if the existing roads of the country, for givii)g facilities in constructing the (lifterent works than with a view of getting-a military roa(l under cover from an enemy, over which troops and artillery could move unseen and in security during an attack, and, as a consequence, the location of this roa(l could be much unproved. REcAPJTuLATI(YN. The defenses of Washington consist of 60 forts, 93 batteries, and 35,711 yards of infantry covered way. There are emplacements pro- vided for 1,447 guns. The present armament is 762 guns and 74 mor- tars. Notwithstanding the great number of works, and their numerous artillery, we should be carcfnl not to allow ourselves to assume either of these as a standard by which to estimate the seeni-ity they give to the city. The works are passive, and of themselves have mio strength, unless they are ~)ro~)erly maimed. The line of defense is some thirty- seven miles long, and to man su(-h a line properly agaimist the attack or imivestuient of a powerful army will require a large Pu-ce. in such a case, time works stand for so muamy men, enabling a smaller force to resist a larger one. Up to this time, these defenses have done all that they have been called upon to do; have iiillilled the object for which they were built, it is our duty to see that they shall be enabled to withstand any possible attacks in time future. No ome would have believed twelve months ago that withimi a year a large force of the enemy would encamp withimi sight of the Capitol, an(I tuat one of our forts would lie seriously threatened. Yet it has been even so, amid if that fort had not been built, or had beemi imn~)roper1y constructed, there can be but little doubt but that the emiemy would have taken posses- sion of the seat of govermmnment. Improbable as it mimay appear at time llreselit time, it is the part of prudence to memnemnber ~ history repeats itself, and that we should guard against such a eo~~miimgemicy in the future. To (10 this effectually, we must keep the defenses ii order. These being built of perishable materials, like a railroad, require constant repairs; 01(1 umagazines require to be repaired or rebuilt; new boumb-proofs are required in many of the works; decayed revetments must be menewed; worn-ou Page 288 288 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~Cn Al. LV. gnu platforms require renewal; decayed abatis must be replaced by new; the 5C~TT)S require constant attentionthey nuist all be sodded, or revetted wifh masonry before the works can assume a permanent character; all interior earthen slopes of traverses, magazines, bomb- proofs, camps, & c., should be sodded; besides, some a(l(litiOnal redoubts and batteries should be built iii order to render these already con- structed more secure. For these objects, To keep in repair all(l render more permanent the defenses of ~ an appropriation of .$300,000 for the fiscal year ending July ii, 1866, will be required. Very respectfully, your obedient servant 11. S. ALEXANJ)Eli, Lieu/eu (Ifl t Colonel a ad .Ajde-de- (Jam)). XX ASHIiNUTON, October 3 iSYHZS(i p. in. Lieuteiiant-G-eneral GRANT. City Point. lb. Scouts in this morning from Ciilpepei- state Loogstreet had joine(l Early with 5,000 men, besides Pmketts division n(l Rossers brigade of cavalry. All new troops have been sent forward as rapidly as we could get them out of the hamls of the State authorities. There has been no neglect on this point. 11. W. IZIALLECK, Ala jor- General (out Chif of. S~1 CITY POINT. VA., October 5, 186410.30 p. m. (Received 6th.) Ma~. Gen. li. XX. IIALLECK. Ii(Uh~flf/tOU, J). C. Longstreet has been rej)orted as having gone to the Valley, but took no troops. Kershaws (livision of his corps starte(l back to iRichmond before Sheridans first fight, but was turned back from about Gordons- ville. Rosser~ brigade of cavalry has gone, but no other troops of any kind. We have had prisoners and deserters, I believe, from eve~y bri- gade of Lees army within the last few days, and know the location of every division at this time. V. S. GRANT, Licuten ant- General. CIRCL7LAR.1 HEADQVARTEOS ~1IDDLE MILITAnY DIVISION~ AStrasburg, October 5, 1(564. Corps commanders will have their artillery and wagons hitched up at daylight to-morrow morning. By cominamid of i\lajor-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FOPSYTH, Chi of 8/if ORDERS.) HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY 1)IVISIoN, ilarrisonburg, Va., October 5, 1864. This command will march from its present camp to New Market at 5.30 oclock to-morrow morning, in the ihilowimig order: 1. The Sixth Cdrps will move, on the right of the pike, to New Market Page 289 CEAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 289 2. The Nineteenth Corps, on the left of tli& pike, to the same place. 3. The Army of West Virginia will constitute the rear guard to New Market, and will march on both sides of the pike. 4. The Sixth Corps train, ammunition wagons, ambulances, an(l artillery will move on the l)ike, followed by the Nineteenth Corps train, ammunition wagons, ambulances, and artillery. 3. The headquarters wagons, ambulances, am mun I tiO] train, and artillery of the Army of West Virginia will follow the tra.iii of the Niiieteenth Army Corps. 6. Custers di ~ i~iou of cavalry will move on the Back road; Merritts, on the l)lke They will encamp to-morrow night in accordance with such specrnl in4iuctions as they m~ .y receive. 7. Corps di~ i~ion, and brigade commanders will be held responsible that n~ buildings ire 1)nrned except by special instructions from these headquaitei ~ By comm md ot Mi~jor-General Sheridan: dM3. XV. FORSYTH, Chie/ a! $tatl. N~AR DEPAR TMEN F. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Wa8It inqton. October 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR, Ti. S. Volunteers, Commanding Dejrnrtmeat of Washington. Washin f/ton, I). C. SIR: The Secretary of War directs that the six companies Fourth Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps now here be ordered to start to-day for Rock Island, Ill., there to report to tile commanding officer of the post for duty. The Secretary also directs that you furnish a regiment to replace the Fourth in its present duties under the military governor of Washington. Please report execution of this order. I am, & c., E. 1). TOWINSENI), Assistaiit AI(jntant- Oeuieral. (Copy to Military Governor ot Washington, I). C.) WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT -GENERALS OFElCX Wash ington, October 5. 1 1) 1. Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR. Corn ma a ding Depa etmen t of Hash inglon, lVasli ington, D. C. SIR: Ii have the honoc to inform you that by Or(lerS of this date Major- General Dix has been directed to designate one of the three regiments of regular infantry now at New York harbor and 1)ilt it en route for this city~ with orders to report to you. As the drafted men of this dis- trict arc to be assigned to regular regiments serving in the Army of the Potomac, I have the honor to request that on the arrival of this regi- ment you designate a suitable camp for it, in which the drafted men can be properly guarded. Very respectfully. & c., E. I). TOWNSEND, Assistant A /ju tant- General. 19 R RV0L XL[tI, PT 1 Page 290 290 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ICHAP. LV. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 221) ARMY Con~s, October 5, 1864. Brigadier-General 1)E Russ~, Commanding Dili8ion: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you order the Third Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps to report for duty to Colonel Wisewell, in ilitary governor, at once. it is desirable that the regimeiit move immediately. Please report its movement. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant A ~juta nt- General. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY GOVERNOR, Alcxandr~a. Va., October 5, 1864. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Flecttlqua rters J)~partment of Washinyto n: SIR: A telegram of this morning from & ptaiu Gale, assistant adjutant-general, from flay Market, says, that everything is working well. I have no particulars as to the point reached by the advance construction train. The firing yesterday on construction train did no damage. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Briqadier- General of Volunteers. ALE XANI)RiA, October 5, 1864. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Headquarters Colonel Gallupe this afternoon telegraphs me, that the Two hundred and first Pennsylvania is at Manassas Junction and Gainesville, three companies at each l)lace; two companies Two hundred and second Pennsylvania at Thoroughfare Gap, eight companies at White Plains; one battalion Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery at Salem, one between Salem and Rectortown, and one at Rectortown; the cavalry is with the telegraph construction train, and that everything works well. He moves his own headquarters to liectortown this evening. Is it the intentic)1i to send the iiiftmntiy out on this line, or must 1 spread the commond as the work advances? Have you information as to when the other four companies of the Two hundred and first will arrived? Please answer. Respectfully. JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OP WASHINGTON~ 221) ARMY CORPS, October 5, 1864. General SLOUGH, Commanding, & c., Alexandria: There are no more troops to be put on the railroad except the four companies of the Two hundred and first Pennsylvania. and I do not kno Page 291 CHAY. Lv.] CORRESPONDENCE~ ETC.UNION. 291 when they will arrive. You will have to spread your coimnaud more as the work progresses. I will soon send some cavaliy, which will relieve the guards a good (leal. C. C. AUGUR.. Major- General, ( mnmanding. ALEXANDU I A, October 5 W64. (Received 7 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR. Assistant A dj ~tant- Ge,~ era 1: COLONEL: It is rel)orted that Mosby, with about 500 men, was in the vicinity of Rectortown yesterday. The l)a[1ols report all quiet to-day. H. H. WELLS, Lieutenant- Colonel, & e. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, sear Port Buffalo, Va. October 5 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Oh iej of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor tc submit the following report, as a con- secutive detailed account of the information gained on my recent scout in the direction of Culpeper Court-house, though the most of it has been already antici pate(l by previous reports: I learned from the statements of many persons living in the imme- diate vicinity of Culpeper Court-House that there are no troops at that point, except a small home-guard, numbering perhaps 100 men, and a from few cavalry, about twenty, chiefly scouts; and - a person but three days previous to my inquiry from Gordonsville I learned that there is no force occupying Gordonsville or its apl)roaches from this direction, except a small railroad guard from Gordonsville to Orange Court-House along the line of the Orange and Alexandria road, and that there is no force occupying Gomdonsville, except a provost conscript guard of a few men, a few conscripts, and a portion of a regiment, about 200 men, composing a recruiting camp for disabled horses. Concerning the re- enforcements sent to Early, I was told by three Bersous, whose knowl- edge seemed derived from different sources, that Early had l)een re- ehforced by about 5,000 men, sent forward with Longsti-eet, who was to assume command; that, be sides this, Picketts division and Rossers brigade of cavalry had been sent him. I could not learn, however, positively on this point, whether Picketts division was with Long- street or had been sent at a different time, so that some doubt appears as to these 5,000. Kershaws division, which arrived at Culpeper Court-House from the Valley about fifteen days since, on its way to Richmond, and which attacked me at Culpeper on my previOus scout to the ltapidan, on the very day after its airival at Culpeper, was om-dered to Gordonsville and thence to re-enforce Early. It left Gor- donsvihie about six days ago. There is some doubt aboat Longstreet having left Richmond at all for active service, so the Hon. Mr. Botts informed me; and he further said that it was extremely doi~btful,in the opinion of surgeons attending him, whether Loigstreet would ever be able to resume active field service again, as his wound had been thi-ough the neck as well as shoulder, and had deranged some nervou Page 292 292 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAP. LV. center, SO that it was found necessary to keep him more under the influence of morphine. Mosby was seen in Culpeper five days since by a son of Mr. l3otts. He walks with a cane with difficulty, and was on his way up the country to join his baud with a few of his men. The Orange and Alexandria Railroad is in good order beyond iRappa- hannock Station to Culpeper, though trains (10 not now run beyond. Orange Court-House. Kinchelocs men have all been relieved from duty in the vicinity of Warrenton and Culpeper, in Fanquier and Cub peper Counties, and have returned to their old l)laces along the Occo- quan. They came home ten days ago to the number of about seventy men. [n starting on my scout, I went in the direction of the United States Ford of the Rappahanimock, intending to push on to the vicinity of Orange Court-House, but the roads were so exceedingly heavy that opposite Dnmfries I was compelled to abandon so long a route, and crossed the country to time vicinity of Culpeper. Very respectftilly, your obedient scrvant~ H. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New Yorl~ Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade. ORDERs.] HEADQUARTERS Sixm CORPS, October 5, 1864. The corps will move at 5.30 to-morrow a. m. to New Market, the artillery, ambulances, and trains on the pike in the order named, the troops on the right of the pike in two columns, in the following order: first, First Division- second, Second Division; third, Third Division. The pickets will be withdrawn by Colonel Heury~ corps officer of the day, in time to join their commands for the march. Division and brigade commanders will be held responsible that no buildings are burned on the march. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WhITTIER, ]Ilajor and Acting Assistant AcUntant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIvIsION, Harrisonbnrg, 1~a., October 5, 1864. Brigadier-General MERRITT, Corn ma ading first Dir is ion Ca ra Iry: GENERAL: It is the intention at preseiit for the army to thil back to Mount Jackson to-morrow. so von will hold your division in readiness to follow that movement. Your route will be from where you are to Harrisonburg. Just at the north si(le of town, turn to the left and go by Kratzer~s Spring to Timberville, then taking a road between the Back road and the pike. Timberville is on the road from New Market to Brocks Gap and about seven miles from ~ew Market. Your right will rest at Timberville and extend well to the left towar(l New Market. General Custer will move on the Back road, and take position on your right to Brocks Gap. On your march, after leaving Harrisonburg, col- lect all stock and bin-n the forage you cant use. Regiments will be detailed for this purpose, and the balance of your command kept well in hand. When you get to Timberville communicate with the pike. Colonel Powell is to connect with your left, if he can be got there in time. Further orders will be sent for you to start. Yours, & c.. A. T. A. TORBEIIT, Brevet Major- General of lolunteers, Chief oJ Ca cairy Page 293 CHAP. LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 293 HEADQTTART ER 5 CAVALRY. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION October :, 1864I() i~ m. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry (lirects that you move with your command to-morrow a. in. at 7 oclock, following the instructions sent you this clay. He also desires you to move one regiment l)ack by way of the pike, which regiment will join you at Harrisonburg. General Torbert also desires you to take every precaution against the burning of any houses on the route. Very respectfully. & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., A ssistan t A Uja ((1)? t- General. HARPERS FERRY, VA., October 5, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Supplies for General Sheridan have gone forward np to the 9th instant. To-day a train of 560 wagons leaves Martinsbarg, with a guard of about 2,d)() menI think sufficient. it ought to reach the front in time. I shall have at least 3,000 convalescents, stragglers, iecruits, & c., armed, equipped, and properly oganize(l for next train, uiiiless I am detained in getting arms. The orders lor them have gone to Washington. I am satisfied that the report of force of enemy on line of supply was exaggerated. if the officers in charge of the trains (10 their duty, we shall lose no wagons. Nothing from front. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Br if/adler- General. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY 1)ISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Haii)ers Perry, W. Va., Uctober 5, 186412 p. m. Colonel EDWARDS. Corn niancliny, l~Tijlc1leste~. Va.: COLONEL: I have just received, through General Neill, your note to him of to-day. if the enemy are strong enough to cal)ture the train of yesterday morning, of course the ti-am with Colonel Currie, being much larger. must be captured also. If you learn with certainty such is the tact, 1 old on to Colonel Curries train, and advise me at once of your information, giving all particulars. If it becomes necessary, I will take every man we have, and, if possible, clear the road. Send me courier direct with your information if you receive any. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY I)ISTRICT OP HARPERS FERRY, IicQpers Ferry, W. Va.. October 5, 1864. Colonel EDWARDS, COrn man ding at Winchester: COLONEL: I shall try to keep full ten days supplies on hand for your post. Please send me a report of the wounded still ~t Winchester, and See Part I, p. lS~ Page 294 294 UPEI~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA.~ MD.. ANI) PA. [Oni~y. LV. ask Surgeon Blaney to furiiish you a statement, if he can do so, of the probable iiumber he can send off per week; also when he thinks the hospital at that post can be broken up. I have no orders as yet upon the subject, but anticipate that it may be done. II would send you the additional force that you ask for, bnt have no troops at my (hsposal to do so. There is not a single infantry regiment or cavalryman left here. My whole force consists of infantry stragglers, artillery, and dismounted cavalry. If I receive any additional troops, I shall strengthen your commaiid. Advise me at once of all reliable information you may re- ceive, indicating an organized force of the enemy formidable enough to threaten you or our lines of communication. I do not apl)Lehend any serious difficulty from Earlys stragglers. Respectfully, JOHN P. STEVENSON, Rr~gadier- General. MAInI~srnRG. October 5. 1864. Brig. Geui. L. TnoisIAs, Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that I have arrived at this post and as- suined command, in obedience to orders. W. H. SEWARD, Briga (tier- General. IIEA1~QVARTERS F1IIs~: CAVALRY Duvisiox, DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Cum berland, Md., October 5, 1864. Lient. C. A. BENJAMIN, Commanding Detachment Twenty-first New York Cai~alry: SIR: You will proceed with your command to Green Spring Run, W. Va., where you will make your headquarters until further orders. You will scout in your front a distancQ of six to ten miles; this scouting will be (lone frequently. You will keep up commnnication by patrols with the troops stationed four miles this side of Grcen Spring Run, XV. Va. You will use every precaution against being surprised by the enemy, and to guard the railroad against interruption by any rebel force. You will furnish regular monthly and tn-monthly returns to your regimental headquarters, and will report frequently by letter to these headquarters. Whenever you send out scouting parties you will be careful to give the men strict instructions and injunctions against plundering, or in any way molesting the persons or the property of citizens of the country through which they may be passing. By order of John E. Wynkoop, colonel commanding division: E. W. CLARK, JR., Captain and Assistant 1 ~jutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MII)i)LE I)EPT., 8TH AThXIY CORPS, No. 92. October 5, 1864. Ba itun ore, Hereafter officers stationed in this (lepartulent, and not on duty in this city or its defenses, are forbidden to visit the city of Baltimore, without ~mnthoiity from these headquarters. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- Geim era 1 Page 295 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 295 SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHA~NA, No. 234. Chambersbnrg, Pa., October 5, 18G4. * * * * * * * 3. Col. Chailes Aibright, Two hundred and second Regiment Penn- sylvan i a Yoluiiteers, h aviiig completed the special duties assigned hi in in palagraj)h 7, Special Orders, iNo. 222, fiOm these headquarters, is hereby relieved from duty in this department, and will proceed without (lelaV from Chambersbiiro Pa., to Washington, I). C., and rel)ort to i\laj. Gen. C. C. Augur, commanding Department of Washington. for 01(1 cr5. * * * * * * * 5. Thc section of Keystone Battery, 100-days Pennsylvania Artillery, commanded by Lient. John Roberts, is hereby relieve(i from (PitY in Colimiubia County, Pa., aud will proceed without delay, by railroad, to Philadelphia and report to Capt. M. Hastings, commanding company, for orders. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. By comiuand of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCIIULTZE, A ssistant Adjutant- General. WAn DEPARTMENT. AmuxrANT-( ENERAL~S OFFICE, Ilashington, October 5, 1864. M~j. Gen. J. A. DIX, Corn dy. Department of the East, New York City, N. Y. Designate one of the three regiments U. S. Infantry (Third, Sixth, and Seventh), now in New York Harbor, and put it en route for this city, with orders to report to General Augur, commanding Department of Washington. All detached officers and men of regiment designated on duty in Department of the East, except those detached by orders from this Department, will join and accompany it. Acknowledge receipt by telegraph. Please report your action to this office. By order of the Secretary of War: R. WILLIAMS, Assistant A djc tant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, October 5, 1864. (emi. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant A dpi tan t- General, Washin~qton, D. C.: Telegram reteived. The Third U. S. Infantry will be sent to General Amv~ur, at Washing-ton, D. C. ~JOHN A. DIX, Ma)() r- General. STATE OF WEST VIRINIA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Uhechny. October 6, ISGI. lion. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: When in Washington a short time since, you will recollect I laid before you the exposed condition of the State and its liability to raids from the enemy at any moment. Since that time several counties o Page 296 296 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AND PA. CHAP. LV. the State, of the richest and most loyal, have been invaded 1)y a force of about 800 rebel soldiers, well armed aIi(l mounted, and under the corn- inand of General \Vitcher, who have robbed and plnndered our people until they are almost destroye(1 and are very much dispirited; and unless they can have greater security, I fear many of theni will aban- (Ion the country. and leave the disloyal element in the majority. Geit- eral Kelley has now telnl)orarily under his command probably enough troops to protect that l)ortiolI ot the State lying north of the Great Kanawha; and with this view, I mequest aIt(l recommend that the troops now under his command in this State be ailowed to remain here for the protection of the section mentioned. Very respectfully, A. 1. I3OIIEMAN. MART1N5BVRG~ October 6, 18G4. (Received 11 a. in.) Brevet Ma or-General MEIGs, Q aerterinaster- General Couriers have just come in from Winchester stating that the rebel cavalry li ave been interrupting comnumnication s with the front and captured dispatches from General Sheridan. Men who escaped from the rebels say that among those dispatches was an order to inc to send no more wagon trains. Can you give inc any information ~ C. W. TOLLES, Lieutenant- Colonel and Cli jef Quartermastci-. WASHINGTON, 1). (1,~ October 6, 1-641.2() p. ni. Licut. Col. C. W. TOLLES. ]Ilartinsbnrg: Supl)lies must be continued to be sent by Winchester till General Sheridan directs them by the other line. No recent information here of General Sheridan. H. W. HALLECK, II! jor- General and Oh hf (~f staff. ORDERs.] HEADQTTARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Illbant Jackson, October 6. 1864. The command will move at early dawn to-morrow morning to Wood- stock in the following order, viz: 1. The traimis of Brevet Major-General Crooks comunmand will cross the bridge at early dawn, amid after reaching the north bank will doable on the pike so that two wagons will l)e abreast, and will proceed to Woodstock under a small escort. After reaching a poiimt one mile beyond Woodstock they will be drawn off time road and halt for further orders. 2. The trains of time Sixth Corps will follow the trains of General Crook, and will double omm the pike in the same way and I)roceed to the same point, be drawn oft the pike, and await further orders Page 297 HAP. LV.1 CORRE5PONI)ENCE. ETCUNION. 297 ;3. The trains of the Nineteenth Corps will thilow those of the Sixth CorpS in the same order. A small escort will be sent with the trains of the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps by the respective corps command- ers. 4. After the trains of the Nineteenth Corps have crossed the bridge the command of General Crook will cross the bridge, an(1 011 arriving at Mount Jackson will take the left-hand side of the pike, with its artil- lery on the l)ike doubled. 3. After the command of General Crook has passed the bridge the Sixth Corps will cross, anti on arriving- at Mount Jackson will take the right of th~ pike, with its artillery on the pike doubled. 6. After the Sixth Corps has crossed the bridge the Nineteenth Corps will cross, and omi its arrival at Mount Jackson will take both sides of the pike, with its artillery on the pike, and will constitute the rear guard. 7. If the fords at or near the bridge are found practicable they will be used as well as the bridge. This command will camp at or near W9odstock to-morrow- night. 8. The cavalry will move nnder the special instrnetions given Brevet Major-General ToIi)ert, chief of cavalry. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FOIISYTH, Chief of ~tatJi WAE I)EPARTMENT. ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washiaqton, October 6, 1861. Maj. Ge~i. C. C. AUGUR, Corn ntancloig Department qf Washington, Washington, D. C. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that in accordance with the ordei-s of the Secretary of War, dated. yesterday, Major-General Dix has designated the Third U. S. Inthutry as the regiment lie will put en route to this city to rel)ort to you. 1 have also the honor to request that npon its arrival here you report the thet to this oftice, giving the locality of the camp which you have selected for it. \TCL.Y respectfully, & e., F. WILLIAMS, Assistant A WUUo? t- (len era 1. I-ID~Rs. I)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON 22n ARMY CORPS, October 6, ISbI. Col. IXI. N. WISEWELL, Military Goceruor of Washington: COLONEL: I ani directed by the major-general commanding to inform von that three companies Veteran Reserve Corps have been ordered to report to von, two from the Baltimore and Washington railroad and one from the depot at Giesborough Point. He directs also that you order a company, commanded by a good captain, to take post at Camp Relief (Seventh street), for the purpose of receiving and guarding such drafted men as may be turned ox-er to him by Captain Putnam. provost- marshal District of Columbia. rflie services of this company will be needed only until a regnlar regiment, now under orders from New Yor Page 298 298 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (dnA?. LV. an ives at this place. As 80011 as this arrangement is mnde, be pleased to notify Captain Putnam, in order that he may turn over the men he now has, and these headquarters. I am. colonel, very respectinily, your most obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief qf St(/f and Assistant Adjutant- General. INOTE.The arrangement must be ma(le this day. By command of Major-General An gur: J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. UDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHLNGTO~, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Colonel GAMBLE, Conunand~ng Camp Stoneman COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that the men ordere(l to report from you to Geceral Slough to-morrow morning start immediately. They will take 2O~) rounds of ammunition per man. Let all possible dispatch be. used, all(l re})ort by bearer when they will start. 1 am. colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- (Jener 1. HDQES. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINeTTON, 22~ ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Major ~V\AITE, Commanding Cavalry, near ilfuddy Branch Collect all yonr cavalry as soon as possible, leaving only a guard to protect your camp, and I)1o(~CCti with it to Middlehurg and thence to Rectortowmi on the Ma.~a.ssas Gap Railroad, where I will meet you. It is possible you may have to fight Mosby on the roa(1 about Middle- burg. Be i)repared for him. Be in haste. C. C. AUGUR, Aliajor- General, Corn ni an ding. ALExANDRiA, VA., October 6, 1864. (Received 5.20 p. m.~ ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Headquarters Departnm en t of Washington: A telegram from Colonel Gallupe. just received, announces an attack of the enemy, with over 400 men amid two pieces of artillery, near Salem. rfhe account is so confbsed that it is hard to tell the result. His commnuumication with his cominaimd beyoimd is cut. He has 80() men with him. He asks for art:llcry ~~mmd cavalry. I have instructed him to imold his position, if possible; if not, to full back in the direction of M anassas Junction. A later dispatch, just received, announces that cannonading is now going on. What shall I dof Shall I send a par Page 299 CHM. LV.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 299 of my artillery here and troops from Manassas Junction to re-enforce him? Colonel Gallupes dispatch iiidicates more cavalry than that he is now engaging as on their way. The news is brought by the cavalry sent out toward Sheridan yesterday. JNO. P. SLOUGI1, Brigadier- General. ALEXANDRIA~ VA.. October 6. 1864C .o-~ p. in. (Received (;.4() p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF WASHiNGTON: Sin: The confusion of the dispatches received is such as to make it uncertaili what. troops have been engaged with the enemy near Salem. The last, just received, indicates that a portion of the Sixth Pennsyl- vania Heavy Artillery only have beeii engaged. This last is from the acting assistant adjutant-general of Colonel Gallupe. Colonel Gallupe is at White Plains, with most of the Two hundred and second Penn syl- vania Volunteers, and should be strong enough to drive oft the enemy, if not over 400 strong. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Jrujadie r- Ceo (iY( I of Voin a teers. ALEXANDThLA, \A., October 6, 1SLi4. (Received 7.20 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Headquarters Department of Washington: The following has just been received, 5.30 p. in.: Four companies of Two hundred and second [Pennsylvania Volunteersi, deployed along the raili-ond, have just reached me. Hear artillery firing, supposed to be between Saleni and Rectortown, a distance of eight or ten miles. it is absolutely necessary that I have at least a section of artillery, in order to dispossess the enemy. Have ordered all the trains to Manassas Junction. I will TUOVC forward at daylight, naless ordered to the contrary, and endeavor to connect the Fifth Artillery. 1 am well ititrenched and can bold my position. if possible, send the artillery by train to-night, and I can open the read to-morrow. Very respeettully, (lEO. S. GALLUPE, Colonel, Commanding. The Fifth Regiment Heavy Artillery is between Salem and Rector- town. JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brif/adier- General of Volunteers. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF MASHINGTON, 22~ ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. (leneral SLOUGH, Corn wand ing, & c., at Alexandria: Your dispatch received. I shall go to the front myself as soon as I can Ol)tain a train. All the cavalry I can raise will be sent at once by cars. if they can be obtained. 1 have asked McCrickctt about this, and will soon know. You need send no artillery at l)resent. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Corn mandiug Page 300 CHAP. LV. 300 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Brigadier-General SLOUGH. Militcirq Governor of Alexandria. Va. Colonel Gamble, at Camp Stoneman, has been directed to send all mounted men of First and Third Divisions, Cavalry Corps, and of Averells division, to report to you at 7 oclock to-morrow morning. Gei~era1 Augur directs that they be sent to Colonel Gallupe, at Rector- town, and that you provide the necessary transportation. A staff officer of Colonel Ganible will report to you to make arrangements. There will probably be 500 men and horses. Respectfully, C. H. RAYMONI), a I A ~j ala at- General. HDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Brig. Gen. JOHN P. SLOUGH. U (I8hiUf/tOfl, 1). C., October 6, 1864. 31 dde ry Go tern or oj Alexandria: GENERAL: Five hundred cavalrymen will report to you at 7 a. m. Octo- ber 7. Please push them out by rail toward Rectortown as rapidly as possible. Direct Colonel Gallupe to use this detac!nnent in furnishing couriers to General Sheridan. Each party on arriviiig within the lines of that army, instead of returning, will rel)ort. to its regiment. The train should carry sufficient subsistence lhr horses and mcii. Please report time of arrival of these troops at Alexandria, and condition. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of & aft~, Assistant Adjutant-General. IIDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 6, 186410.10 p. rn. General SLOUGH, Commanding, & e., at Alexandria: I shall be in Alexandria about I a. m. to-morrow morning, and hope to see you. Has Gallupe all the ammunition he requires~? If not, l)lease have some ready to send when the cavalry goes to-morrow morning. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General, Commanding. I shall require a train guard with me. Please have one ready. ALEXANDRI A, October 6, 1864. (Received 11 p. ix.) Major-General AuGUR: GENERAL: I will meet you at the Alexandria dcpot on your arrival. Colonel Gallupe has, I think, eighty rounds to a man. ~o more can be had here, if that is not enough. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General Page 301 CHAP. LV.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 301 MANASSAS JuNcTIoN, VA., October 6, 1864. (Received 10.10 p. ilL) Bug. Gem D. C. McCALLITi~vI: Rebel force on the Gap road at Salem, between us and~construction (orl)s. All the material forwarded since yesterday morning is still this side of White Plains. 1-Jave just returned here from White Plains, where I saw Colonel Gallupe with (300 men, who was cOunpelle(l to fall back from Salem and iitrench at White Plains. lie ordered all the traiius to be sent this side of Thoroughfare Gap, or to M anassas. Faur sllccee(led in reaching here, and one engine all(I three cars are now on the way between the gap and Manassas. It is just reported that engine Grapesbot and twelve cars of railroad material are a pertect wreck at Thorouglifure Gap; report says the track was blown up, but I think the train run off the switch. The construction corps is out of material. Colonel Gallupe says he will endeavor to advance early in the niorning, but lie will take the pike road. This course will not assist us much, as the rebel force at Salem is supposed to have destroyed the track. A strong force should advance on the railroad, an~l hold Salem nntil a connection is made with the construction corps. My first endeavor will be to clear the track at ThoroughtVixe Gal). M. J. McCRiCKETT, Assistant Superintendent. ALEXANDEJA. Vx., October 6, 1864. (Received 7.25 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: The patrols report all quiet to-day. There has been some lighting with the railro d guard near Salem to-day. It is reported that Mosbv has been re-enforced by two regiments of cavalry. This prob- ably is the party attacking the railroad guard to-day. Respectfully, W W. WINSHIP, (Japtain a ad A ctinq Pro ro.st-ilIa rsh al-General. TIDQRS. DEPAI MENT OF WASHINGTON, ~Th Aiu~iv Co~ps, October 6, 1864. Colonel LAZELLE, Commanding at Falls Church Collect all your available force (leaving a sufficient guard for your post ainl to l)atlol your front), and march with it to Alexandria, to take cars there for the front. Tak(5 200 rounds of aiiuaunition with you. Subsistence and forage will be taken from Alexandria. Respectfully, yours, C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. I leave for Rectortown to-night, and hope to see you there to-morrow. Make all possible haste Page 302 302 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (CHAr. LV. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, October 6, 1864. Division commanders will at once throw out a sufficient number of pickets for the l)rOteCtlOll of their ceinmandsthe First Division on the right, with its right resting on the pike; on its left, the Second Division; and next, the Third Division. The pickets will be throwii out well to the front, lln(ler the general direction of Lieutenant-Colonel Hamilton, Sixty-second New Xork Volunteers, corps officer of the day. By command of Major-~4eneral Wright: C. II. WHTTTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, October 6, 1864. The corps will move to-morrow morning to Woodstock, in the follow- ing order: The trains, hospital and medicine wagons, and one-half the ambulances will, under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the corps, follow the trains of General Crooks command, which start at early dawn, crossing the bridge, and, after reaching the north bank, will double on the flank so that two wagons will be abreast, an(l move to and beyond Woodstock. Brigadier-General Getty will send one regiment as a guard. After reachino ~t point one mile beyoiid Wood- stock, they will be (Irawn off the road to await further orders. The trains of the Nineteenth Corps follow those of this, then General Crooks command crosses the bridge, an(l upon arriving at Mount Jackson, takes the left-hand side of the pike, with its artillery on the pike denoted. This corps, will follow General Crook~ command in this order: first, Second Division; second, one-half the ambulances; third, artillery; fourth, Third Division~ fifth, First Division; and upon reaching Mount Jackson will take the right-hand si(le of the idke, moving iii two col- umns, the ambulances and artillery on the l)ike, doubled, and camp at or ii ear Wood stock. If the fords at or near the bridge are l)ractlcable, they will be used as well as the bridge. Colonel Hamilton, corps officer of the day, will withdraw the l)ickets in time for them to join their commands for the march. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, October 6, 1864. Hon. E. i\I. STANTON, Secretary of Wctr: Received dispatch from Colonel Edwards, at Winchester, as follows: GENERAL: The picket-post from the army at the front, 15() cavalry stationed at Mount Jackson. were attacked at daylight on 3d instant. One captain and thirty- nine nuen of said l)ost reported night hefi)re last here; fifteen have come in to- day. Thcy were caI)tnred and parolc(l by the Seventh Virgiala Cavalry. They represent that Hamptons Legion was expected early yesterday morning, at lay- break, at Cedar Creek; also that a dispatch-hearer from General Sheridan, with or(lers not to scn(l aiiy trains forward, was cal)tulIe(l by the enemy ; also that they heard heavy firing esterday morning at the iront. The train that left here yester- day morning f~r the front had 1,~0O ca~~airy and 300 infimtry for escort. There is Page 303 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 303 rumor that the train was captured at Cedar Creek. I have no faith in it at all, and feel sure that the train will go through all right. The bridge at Edenburg has been burned; also bridge at Moniit Jackson. Four men of the Lighty-second Penis- sylvania Volunteers were taken yesterday by the First Maryland Cavalry, near my lines. Respectfully, 0. EDWARDS, Colonel, Commending Post. The train alluded to is a train of 220 wagons, ni ~der charge of Colonel A oodS. I have sent special couriers to Edwards to hold on to large traP 560 wagons, with Colonel Currie, if his news proves to be true. The guard with it is about 2,000 infantry. If the cuemy in force hold Sheridans line ot communication, this is too small a guard with so large a train. As soon as the arms for my organized stragglers arrive I can send forward about 4,000 additional inthutry. I have no advices direct from front. Respectfully, ~JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., October 6, 18644.10 p. in. Brig. Gen. J. D. STEVENSON, Harper.~ Ferry: Ordnance Department says that arms were forwarded to you yeater. day. Please report their arrival, or if there has been unnecessary delay in their transportation. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, October 6, 1864. (Received 610 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Chief of & aff; The ordnance officer reports the arms not arrived; expects them to-night. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, October 6, 1864. Captain SHAW, Point of Rocks: A freight train was fired upon to-night west of Point of Rocks. Send out a scout as far as Berlin and ascertain by whom, and report at once. Send also the Loudoun Rangers along the road and up Pleasant Valley to hunt up the party. JOHN D. STEVENSON, llrigadier- General. For this dispatch iii full, see Part I, p. 185 Page 304 804 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [VEAl. LY. HEADQUARTERS U.S. Fozons, Wlaeheetr, 11.., October 6,1864. Meat. CoL 0. W. ToLLEs; Chief Quartermaster: CoLonL: Your communications of the 4th and 6th Instant were duly received. Three hundred wagons arrived from the front to-day. The train that left this post day before yesterday was passed all safe beyond Woodstock yesterday morning. There was with it a guard of about i,500. Do not understand me to believe these various reports relative to the capture of teams, & c., are true. I simply wish to impress upon you the idea that to safelyguard atrainof200wagons,from hereto thefront,agnardofatleast 1,SOOmen are necessary. Iwill send to Martinsburg to-morrow the train of 272 wagons that arrive to-day with supplies, stores, & c., for this post; and the train of 800 that came from the front I will load up and send back there on Monday, in accordance with your directions. The mules of that train are very much exhausted, and in need of rest. The balance of the train that arrives from Martinsburg to-day I will dispateh for the front to-morrow a under what I consider a sufficient escortColonel Ourrids brigade and the troops that accompany it from Martinsburg, together with between 200 and 800 cavalry from this post. Very ~p~11y, ~. EDWARDS, Ooloesel, Commanding Post HEADQuARTERs U. S. FORCES, Winchester, Ye., October 6,1864. Brigadier-General STEvENSoN, Commanding Military Ilustriet of Harpers Ferry: GERERAL: Your communication of the 5th instant came to hand this p. m. I will at once obtain from Doctor Blaney, medical director, the information you desire, and forward it at the earliest practicable moment The train thatleft here the day before yesterday was reported all safe beyond Woodstockon the foflowin; day.. It had with Ita guard of 1,500 men. All trains thus far have army ,asfarasheard from. Do not understand rme] as believing all the rumors that are afloat relative to the ture of trains; I simply wish to be understood as believing that at least 1,500 men are necessary to properly protect a train of 200 wagons going from here to the front. I will dispatch Colonel Currie, who arrived to-day, at daylight to-morrow, the train from the front that left the day before yesterday having come through in safety. An enlisted man of the Seventeenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who was wounded in a skirmish with a guerrilla party of the enemy the other day and taken to Paris, escaped and returned to his coin- and this morning. He reports that he was informed by Union citizens in that neighborhood that Mosby was collecting some 500 men In that vicinity, and preparing to make what they called a thirty-days? raid in the direction of Alexandria, and that he (the an of the Seventeenth) saw a part of this force at its rendezvous in that neighborhood. I have added to the troops under Colonel Curries command about 300 cavalry that were at this post. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. EDWARDS, Colonel, Commanding Post Page 305 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 305 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, October 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM II. SEWARD, Commanding at ]Jliartiasb ary, Va. GENERAL: The pressure of other engagements has prevented me from giving you specific instructions in regard to your duties at your present post, and I now proceed to (10 50 First. The Adjutant-General informs me that you have already reported that you have assumed command. I presume you have also advised Major-General Sheridan, commander of the division, and Major-General Crook, conunander of the department, of your arrival at Martinsburg, under orders from the War Department. If it has not already been done, you will 1)lease to give them notice that you have assumed com- mand, pursuant to your orders. Second. Your most important duty, in the absence of other instrue- tions from Gemmeral Sheridan, will be to take charge of the depots of military stores at Martinsburg, and see that they are under proper pro- tection and administration. If anything be needed for the security of the public property in your charge, you will rel)ort the same to General Stevenson. Third. The Department is not advised what mnifitary force is in your command, and therefore can not give specific iimstructions as to the mode of its employment, but will suggest that after providing suitable guards any surplus force that you may have should be used in routing out and destroying any gangs of guerrillas or robbers that may infest your vicinity. It may be possible that after you have becomue sufficiently acquainted with the personnel of your command, you can organize a small but efficient corps that mnay accomuplish innch in destroying the robbers and mnnrderers that make it a business to plunder our trains and transportation and kill our soldiers in amnbnsh. If you can do so, you are at liberty to employ any means that may be within your power to accomplmsh that object, and when persons guilty of such transactions come within your power, you may deal witlm them as their crimes merit, without making any report upon the subject. Fourth. The protection of the railway and of the telegraph lines will merit your special attention. Fifth. Upon any point lll)OR which you are not sufficiently advised, you will apply for instructions to General Stevenson, your immediate sul)erior. Your obedient servamit, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. hEADQUARTERS POST 01! MARTINSIIURG, VA., October 6, 18(11. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Commanding iJliiitary District of Harpers Fe)ry: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that Captain Melvin, of Gen- eral Sheridans staft has just reached here with the body of Lieu- tenant Meigs (of the same staff). who was killed on Monday while mnaking military surveys. Captain Melvin left the frormt at 10 a. m. yesterday, and reports General Sheridan still at Ilarrisonburg; also that all the important bridges betweei~ that place and Winchester were 2t) R RYOL XLI1I, PT I Page 306 306 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. destroyed by guerrillas, but that the streams were fordable, and he thought no serious delay would be caused to the trains, lie also says that General Sheridan directed him to have the commanding officer of this post forward duplicates of all dispatches forwarded from here since September 29. 1 (10 not find that anything but sealed dispatches have been sent from here since that (late, and therefore presume that he meant Harpers Ferry instead of this place. All dispatches received from you up to this time have gomme forward. Mr. Kellogg, who lett Winchester at noon to-day, reports that the advance of the large train sent from here yesterday evening was just entering the town as be left. I am, general, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, W. II. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, October 6, 1864. Brigadier-General SEWARD, illartinsl)nrg: Send all line officers at the post of Martinsbnrg belonging to Gen- eral Sheridans army to this 1)ost at once, to take command of recruits, & c., organized here to go to the front. You will arrest any officer who, upon notice, fails to leave for this post on first train, and report to me the names of officers so arrested. JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. CLARKSBURG, October 6, 1864. (Received 12.5~ a. in. 7th.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff, Washington: I returned to this place this evening from the interior. The rebels have retreated east of the mountains. I have placed a small force at l3ulltown, in Braxton County; also at Weston and Bnckhannon. The railroad west of Cumberland is now perfectly safe. I return to Cum- borland, Md., to-morrow. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet ]liajor- General. CLAIIKSBUEG, October 6, 1864. Brigadier-Gem meral BVNKER~ Gre/ton: You can relieve all of your comnman(1 in time nioriilmmg. I will see you (ml Graftoii to-morrow. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet iliajor- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. i)EPT. OF THE S~JSQITEIIANNA, No. 233. Charnbersburg, Pa., October 6, 1864. * 4. Brig. Gen. T. A. Rowley, U. S. Volunteers, comamuanding Monon- gaimela District, will send, without delay, one company of the First Bat- talion, 1Ot~- days Pemimisylvania Volunteers, from Pittsburg to Will Page 307 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 307 iarnsport, Pa., to report to Capt. W. H. Blair, provost-marshal Eight- eenth I)istrict, for duty. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. ~. Lient. Col. Charles Stewart, First Battalion, 100-days Penusyl- it (lelay, Capt. J. P. Short Six vania Volunteers, will relieve withoi , - teenth Regimeut Veteran Reserve Corps, from the command of troops at Jolinstowit, Pa. Upon being relieved Capt. J. P. Short will proceed to Bloomsburg aiid re~nine comniaiid of the troops in Columbia County, Pa. * * * * * * * i8~ coinmitand of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant A (Ijutant- General. WAR l)EPARTMENT, AI)JUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington (1) etobe Maj. Gen. J. A. Dix, , r 6, 1861. Comdg. Department of the East New York City: I)esignate one of the regular regiments of infantry now in depot at New York harbor, and order it to Harts Island, to take charge of the new depot for prisoners of war at that place and for recrnitment. Please acknowledge receipt by telegraph, and report your action to this office. By order of the Secretary of War: R. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WoODsTocK, VA., October 7, 186111.80 p. rn. Hon. E. lvi. STANTON, (Received S ~i. in. 8th.) & cretary of War: Do not send any transportation on the Front Royal road nutil I advise you to that effect. The regimental wagons of the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps have been converted into supply wagons, and the essential effects of the corps stored at Winchester. This may cause the delay of a day or two at Cedar Creek or Front Royal. This delay would be necessary, in order to fully ascertain the results of my retro- grade movement on the enemy. I would have preferred sending the troops via the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, but the effect of opening the Front Royal road may be very good. For particulars as to the recent movements here, I would refer to telegram of this date to Gen- eral Grant. The figures given are the minimum. P. II. SHERIDAN, ]Jliajor- General. WOoDsTOCK, VA., October 7, 1861 9 p. m. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, (Received 9th.) Commanding Armies of the United Ntates I have the honor to report my command at this point to-night. I corn- menced moving back from Port Republic, Mount Crawford, Bridgewater Page 308 808 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [Qua. LV. and Harrisonburg yesterday morning. The grain and forage iii advance ofthesepointsupto Staunton had previously been destroyed. In moving back to this point the whole country from the Blue Ridge to the North Mountains has beenmade untenable for a rebel army. I have destroyed over 2 000 barns, filled with wheat hay, and farming implements; over 70 mills, filled with flour and wheat; have driven iu front of the army ov m]head of stock and have killed and issued to the troops not less than 3,000 sheep. Ills destruction embraces the Luray Valley and Little Fort Volley2 as well as the main valley. A large number of horses have been obtained, a proper estimate of which I eannot now ma& Lient. John B. Meigs, my engineer officer, was murdered beyond Harrisonburg, near Dayton. For this atrocious act all the houses within an area of five miles were burned. Since I came into the Valley, from Harpers Ferry up to Harriaonburg, every train, every small party, and every straggler has been bushwhacked by l)eople, many of whom have protection papers from commanders who have been hitherto in this valley. From the vicinity of Harrisonburg over 400 wagon loads of refugees have been sent back to Martinsburg; most of these people were Dunkers, and had been conscripted. The people here are getting sick of the war; heretofore they have had no reason to complain, because they have been living in great abundance. I have not been followed by the enemy up to this point, with the exception of a small %rce of rebel cavalry that showed themselves some distance behind m7 rear guard to-day. A party of 100 of the Eighth Ohio Cavalry, which I had stationed at the bridge over the North Shenandoah, near Mount Jackson, was attacked byMcNeill, with seventeen men; report they were asleep, and the whole party dispersed or captured. I think that they will all turn up. I learned that fifty- six of them have reached Winchester. McNeil was mortally wounded ad fell into our hands. This was fortunate, as he was the most daring ad dagerous of all the bushwhackers in this section of the country. I would have preferred sending troops to you by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad; it would have, been the quickest and most concealed way of sending them. The keeping open of the road to Front Royal will require large guards to protect it against a very small number of p artisan troops; it also obliges me to have a pontoon train, if It is to be kept open, to bridge the Shenandoah, and keep up communication with Winchester. However in a day or two I can tell better. I sent a party of cavalry through TLorntons Gap, and directed the balance of the division of cavalry which I have left in the Valley to take position at Millwood, occupying Chester (lap and Front Royal. Thornton?s Gap I have given up, as of no value. With this disposition of forces, I will move infantry round the mountains, via Strasburg, as soon as possible. To-morrow I will continue the destruction of wheat forage, & c., don to Fishers Hill. When this is completed the Valley, from Winchester up to Staunton, ninety-two miles, will have but little in it for man or beast. In previous dispatehes I have used lower Valley when I should have said upper Valley, or, in other words, in my last dis- p atch I intended to say that the grain and forage from Staunton up to Lexington had been sent to Richmond, and that the grain and forage from Staunton to Strasburg had been left or the wintering of Earlys army. Yesterdaj Colonel Powell captured a guerrilla camp on the mountains, with ten wagons and teams. P. H. SHERIDAN, Jfajor-Ge.wral Page 309 CHAP, LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNJON. 309 WOOD5TOCIi~ VA., October 7, 1864S p. in. Major-General HALLECK, (Received 8 r~ in. 8th.) Chief of Stafl~: Your telegram of 3d received. 1 had one small (liVisiOn of cavalry in the Luray Valley at Luray. From this I sent a party of 40~ picked mcii to (lestroy the bridge over the Rapi(lan. The balance of the (ii Vision passed down to Millwood, cleaning out the valley entire from Swift Bun (iap to Millwood. They were driving before them 3,000 head of stock. I (lirected the occupation of Chester Gap and Front Royal, and will send additional force around via Strasburg. Under the pres- ent condition of athuirs here 1 (10 not deem the occupation of Thorntons Gap as iml)ortaut, arid it would very much weakeu my force. I would not have advised the opening of the road to Front Royal. For further l)artlctllars, I refer you to my telegram of this date to General Grant. I have been unable to communicate more frequently on account of the operations of guerrillas in my rear. They have attacked every party, and I have seiit my dispatches with a view of economizing as much as possible. Rebel papers speak of a battle at New Hope; it is untruth- PU. I made a demonstration on Browns Gap on that day with a small ~)arty of cavalry, in order to cover Torberts movements on Staunton and Waynesborough, and drew out Kershaws division and some other troops, and occupied their attention, without the loss of anybody killed or wounded, and I thiimk that the rebel loss was about the same. The rel)ort of one of my brigades of cavalry being ambuscaded in Luray Valley is also incorrect and untrue. P. Ii. ShERIDAN, ]Ikjor- General. WooDSTocK, October 7, 18G412 rn. (Received 7.55 p. in. 8th.) General E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General: Your (hispatch notifying me of the assignment of Brigadier-General Seward to Martinsburg received. I think that the Ninth New York Artillery had better be kept with the fighting force. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General, Comm an ding. ORDERS.1 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Near Woodstoek, Va., October 7. 1864. This command will resume the march to-morrow morning at 5 oclock, in the following order, viz: 1. First, trains of the Nineteenth Army Corps; second, trains of the Army of West Virginia; third, trains of the Sixth Army Corps; fourth, supply train of the Third Cavalry i)ivisiou. The trains will be moved to and parked near Strasburg, and await further orders. 2. After the trains have all moved out, the Nineteenth Army Corps will move out on the right of the pike, with its artillery on the pike, and will halt at a point this side of Fishers Hill. 3. The Army of West Virgimmia will follow the Nineteenth Army Corps, moving on the left of the pike, with artillery on the pike, amid will halt at the same place as the Nimmeteenth Army Corps Page 310 310 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. 4. The Sixth Army Corps will move on both sides of the pike, with its artillery on the pike, and will constitute the rear guard. Oiily such ambulances will be retained with the artillery as may be deemed neces- sary. Corps commanders will send a small escort with their trains. 5. General Custers division of cavalry will continue on the Back road, and encamup to-morrow night on Tumbling Creek at the point that the Back road crosses said creek. The destruction of the forage, grain, & c., by the cavalry will be continued, in accordance with special instructions from the chief of cavalry. By command of Major.General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. WASHINGTON, I). C., October 7, 1864. General AUGUR: I have directed General Wallace to send down from Ellicotts Mills a small cavalry force to try to watch the guerrilla robbers at Sandy Spring. A small force should be sent from here to cut off their retreat across the Potomac. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. WHITE PLAINS, Ovtober 7, 186411.20 a. rn. (Received 12.30 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I arrived here at 7 this morning. The telegraph is just completed to this point. Mosby had possession of Salem fbr awhile, and is said to have destroyed a good deal of the track there. The construction train is now at Rectortown, with the Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, well protected. It is said Mosby shelled them awhile last night. Nothing is heard of him this morning. 1 have sent five companies from here to Salem, and requested the construction train to return there and repair the road. There is a large and heavy train off the track at Thoroughfare Gap, which will not be cleared away before this afternoon so that trains can pass. As soon as the cavalry arrives, all will be well here. C. C. AUGUR, - Major- General. SIGNAL STATION, Washington, D. C., October 7, 1864. (Received 10.30 a. in.) Brigadier-General HARDIN: Last night a party of Mosbys men, two or three in number, robbed the store of Gilpin & Bently of property to the amount of $1, 000. They have gone in a direct northwest course. The above report was given to the Eighth Illinois Cavalry; but as they were ordered in another direction they could not attend to it. Respectfully, & c., THOS. ALLCOCK, Lieutenant- Colonel, Fort Reno, D. C Page 311 CHAP. IN.] CORRESPONDENCE, FTC. UNION. 311 HEADQ IIARTERS EiGhTh ILLINOIS CAVALRY, iThuldy B1LTh BrcOWII, Md., October 7, l8Gi. Maj. C. H. RAYMOND, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Twenty-second Army Corps, Washington, ii). C. MAJOR: The telegram from General Augur was received at 12 oclock last night. I shall move across the river with seven companies at 110011 today for Rectortowii, via Mi(ldleburo Major Waite left us for Wash- iiigton Sunday nioriiing, and we have not seen lilni siiice. N cry respectfully, yoi ir obedient servo ut, J. I). LUDLAM, P. S.Rations have riot yet arrived. Should 1 ant get oft so 50011~ I will telegraph you. J. 1). L.. Major, & c. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WAShINGTON, 22~ ARMY CORPS, October 7 1+41& () p. rn. Major-(~eneral AuGum Ileetortown, Ta.: Major Ludlam reports that at 110011 to-day he will ThOVC with seven (Oululial lies Eighth illinois Cavalry to Rectortowi , vi a Mi (ldlel)llrg. Respectfully, C. II. RAYMONd), itssistant A djflt(O? t- General. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTh iLLINOIS CAVALRY, Muddy Branch, ~lId., October 7, 1861. (Received 9.35 a. in.) Maj. C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General: 1 received information this morning from a Union mall, Mr. Stabler, living at Sandy Spring, that a party of rebels, fifty 111011 strong, robbed the store at that place this morning at 1 oclock. They crossed the Poto- mac the night of the 5th above the Monocacy. The regiment has crossed the river, and I have no force here to follow them, my company being only sufficient to guard the regimental property at this place. L. U. PIERCE, Captain, Corn m an diitg ALEXANDRIA, XA., October 7, 1864. (Received 11.30 a. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF ~VASHINGTON: SIR: The cavalry sent by Colonel C amble arrived at ( oclock this - morning, an(l is sent by railroad for the frontover (iOO mcii 011(1 4 officers. It is chiefly composed of recruits, stragglers, & c. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLoUGh, Briya(iicr- General Page 312 31~ OPET~ATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 7, 1864. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, (Received 11.30 a. in.) iI8SiStq at Adp( tent- (len eral COLONEL: Five hundred and fifty men Thirteenth and Sixteenth New X~ork Cavalry have just arrived, and are being sent forward by railroad. JNO. P. SLOUGH, Briy~uiicr- (lefteral. ALEXANDRIA DEPOT, October 7, 1864 3.80 p. m. Brig. Gen. D. C. MCCALLUM: (lieceive(l ~ P. in.) The wreck a.t Thoroughfare Gap is clear and track repaired, and three trains have arrived at White Plains. It is reported that consid. erable track is (lestroyed between Salem and Rectortown. Colonel Gallupe, commanding at White Plains, has sent word to Mr. Wentz of the condition of the roa(l at Salem. Eight hundred cavalrymen, with horses, & c., have beeii torwar(led from here by train siiice 9 a. in. I expect to have 1,200 on the way before dark, and one train railroad material. M. J. iVJIcCRICKETT, 8wpcriitteftdent. ALEXANDRIA RAILROAD l)EPOT, VA., October 7, 1864. (Received 5 p. in.) Brig. Gen. D. C. McCALLuM: I find it impossible to get guards for even one.third of the number of trains I am running on the Manassas line, but, to get through the work now crowding on us, I must start the trains promptly, with or without guards, and take the chances. To be secure, each train ought to have at least thirty men to guard it, and run in convoy of two or three. When the road is open for business, I will require at least 540 men per day, 90 men each for six convoys. If troops were assigned to us for this duty, and put in camp here, I could arrange with the commanding officer to furnish the necessary details at regular hours. If Mr. Wentz does not return to-day or to-morrow, I will see you in regard to this. M. J. 1VIOCItICKETT, AS~uperintendent. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Port Ba.ffrlo, Va., October 7, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant A jutant- (leneral: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that there is nothing of importance to report from this vicinity. Colonel Gansevoort left Alex- andria this morning with 625 men, for Rectortown. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Got. & xteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Cavalry Brigade Page 313 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 313 ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS Smii CORPS, October 7, 1864. This command will resume its march to-morrow a. in., as follows: The trains, hospital and medicine wagons, and one-half the ambulances will follow the trains of the Nineteenth Corps and of General Crook, I he first of which starts at 5 a in., and will be moved to and parked near Strasbnrg, and await further or(lers; next comes the supply train of Third Cavalry Division; then the Nineteenth Corps, on the right of the pike, its artillery on the pike; the Army of West Vir- ginia follows the Nineteenth Corps, moving on the left of the pike; this corps will follow General Crooks command, the Third Division moving on the left ot the pike, iii two columns, the First Division, at the same time, on the right of the pike, in two columns, the ambu- lances and artillery on the pike, in the order iiamed; the Second Division will constitute the rear guard, moving on both sides of the pike. Colonel Tompkins will send a battery to report to General Getty. General Ricketts will send one regiment as guard with the trains of this corps, which move in advance of the corps, and will withdraw his brigade, on the Nottoway, in time for the march. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WhITTIER, Acting Assi8tant A djntant- General. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 7, 18644.15 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, (Jommaaling: GENERAL: My whole force has crossed at Edenbnrg, except my ~kirmishers, who are now crossing Stony Creek. The enemy showed in our rear about a small brigade of cavalry, with dnst behind. On arriv- ing here, I found first General Merritt, then General Torbert. A few of the enemy followed our skirmish line at a long distance to the vicinity Of Edenbnrg. 1 am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October 7, 18G48 p. m. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you follow the army, which will commence moving to-morrow a. in. at 5 oclock, keeping all your train and artillery on the pike. At Woodstock you will send one brigade on a road to the left of the pike and to the right of the Back road, to tlioroughly clean ont the country to the left of that road, which passes along the west base of Round Top Mountain. Some of lie force which moves along the pike will clean the country between the hike and the road first spoken of. Attend also to the right of the pike. If you can, to-morrow, ascertain the strength of the force following you. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., Assistant A djntant- General Page 314 [CHAP. LV. 314 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. 11ARPER8 FERRY, XV. VA .,October 7, idGI. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Captain Melvin, of General Sheridans staff, came in last night; left General Sheridans at 10 a. m. ~th. He was still at Harrisonburg. Reports the bridges along the road burned by guerrillas. Met traiis going on all right. Nothing on road but guerrilla parties. Brought in body of Lient. ~Jolin It. Meigs, killed by bushwhackers on Monday last, while making military survey. Respeettully, JNO. 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, October 7, 1864. (Received 12.10 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W HALLECK, Chief of Star: I have reason to believe that certain officers of light batteries at this post have induced a portion of the German recruits of the State of Massachusetts to desert from camp, for the purpose of enlisting in their batteries. I have published an order requiring them to be returned instanter, and have notified them that I have authority to place all officers thus encouraging deserters in irons, to be sent before a proper court-martial for trial. I shall adopt such measures as will fix the guilt of the offense upon the proper parties. JNO. D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 7, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Harpers Ferry: Your action in respect to the officers procuring desertion is approved. Stop the evil at all hazards. If need be, try the guilty I)arties by drum- head court-martial, and execute the sentence. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., October 7, 186410.40 p. m. (Received 11.45 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Mosby, with 800 men and four pieces of artillery, started on a raid froiti the neighborhood of Snickers Gap, in the direction of Alexandria yesterday morning. He has added to his old command about 300 men, and assembled them all together this week for this raid. I have the information so direct I think it perfectly reliable. It may be that lie will cross the Potomac above Washington, and try a raid in Maryland, as his men have been promised the spoils of the Annapolis Bank. As to his leaving there is no doubt. He rides in a buggy, being unable t Page 315 CHAP. LY.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 315 ride on horseback md his men are under the immediate command Of Captain Whiting [Whitescarver]. MeNeill, the guerrilla, is mortally wounded, lying at Middletown. Respectfully, JOhN II). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. TIENDQUAETERS U. S. FORCES, Wine/tester, 1~a., October 7, 1c~G4. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Sin: I have the honor to report that Captain Blazer, commanding scouts of Crooks command, has just reported that Mosby, with 800 mcii and four guns, started for a raid yesterday morning. This agrees with the report I sent you yesterday, that Mosby had started on a raid toward Alexandria. Captain Blazer rel)orts that Mosby has recently conscripted 300 men. I send you the report as I received it for what it is worth. Captain Blazer reports Mosby wounded in the groin and ~ah; that he rides in a carriage; that his command is under the immediate command of Captain Whiting [Wititescarver]. Captain McNcill. guerrilla, is mortally wounded, lying at Middletown. Respectfully, & c., 0. EJ)WARDS, Colonel, Commanding. GRAFTON, October 7, 1864. Capt. P. G. BIER, Assistant Adja taut- General, Ha rr isonbwrg, Va. I returned froni the interior last night. Rebels have retreated through Braxton and Webster Counties. It was a portion of Morgans late force, commanded by Colonel Witcher. I have placed a small force at Bulitown, also at Weston and Buckhannon. This regioii is now clear of rebel force, and the railroad is perfrctly safe west of Cumberland. I hope Sullivan will be able to cut off the raiders on their return to the southwest portion of the State. I return to Cuinberland to-night. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. CLARKSBURG, October 7, 1864. Governor BOREMAN, Wheeling: I returned from the interior last night. I have disposed of my force so as to give protection to the railroad and the people of West \Tir- gmia. The rebels have retreated, and the northwest part of the State is eiitirelv free from the invaders. The militia have been relieved, and are returning to their homes. I leave for Cumnberland to-day. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General Page 316 316 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., MT. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Bnckhannon, October 7, 18G.!. Lient. C. A. FREEMAN, Acting Assistant Adbitant- General, Dept. of West Virginia: LIEUTENANT: I havc the honor to rel)ort, for the information of the geiieral commanding, that I examined on the 6th instant the knob west of this place as a 1)oint for defense, also the several roads commanded by this knob, i. e., to Beverly, French Creek, and Clarksburg, and find it an admirable position for the artillery; tlii~ road leading to Weston it does not command bat for a very short (listance. I also examined a spur of the mountain on the northwest side of the town, and find that it also coinmaiids the approaches, includino- the Weston road aiid affords a convenient aiid easy access to the Clarksburg road, which is ilnh)ortant in the event we should be compelled to retire on that road. With three pieces of artillery (two 3-inch rifled and one 24-pounder howitzer) this place, in my judgment, conld be successfully defended aoainst much superior force. Water caii be obtained in sufficient quantity for the necessary force at either point at a (histance of about 300 yards, and I propose sinking six or eight wells in the garrison to suJ)ply the force in case our resources should be cut off during an engagement. it; in the opinion of the commanding general, it is Pu- portant that the road to Weston should be thoroughly commanded, the last-named 1)ositiOn, in my judgment, is the most available for defense, as it commands all the roads equally as well as the first-named knob, with the exception of the Beverly road. I am ready to com- mence the work at any moment the tools necessary to execute are fur- nished, which I respectfully request may be snp~)hied without delay. Very respeettully, your obedient servant (IIAS. (+ILi~JIN, Comm an (tiny Forces at Buckli ann on. CLARKSEURG, W VA October 7 1861. Col. CHARLES GIL1NN: The general commanding directs that until further orders you will report~ to Col. N. Wilkinson, Sixth West Virginia Infantry, Clarksburg, XV. Ma., commanding the troops west of Piedmont, ~AT. Va., and keep him advised ffillv of all matters of interest in relation to the movements of the enemy in the vicinity of your command. I ama, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. FREl~MAN, Lieutenant -and A etiny Assistant Adjutant- General. IIEADQUARTElrS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINJA ]-I((rrison bury, October 7 186-1. Brigadier-General SULLIVAN: Your telegram relative to rebel force at Lewisburg has been received. Intorination received here shows that they cami be nothing more thami gimem-rillas. You Imave sufficient force to hold tlme Valley against the enemy at present in your front, and must make every exertion to do so. Arms can l)robably be ol)taine(l at Galhipohis, Ohio. CROOK, Brevet Miajor- General Page 317 (~1I.~i?. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 WAR DEPARrIMENT, Washington, D. C., October 7, 1861. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore: It is reported that a small guerrilla band has been at Sandy Spriiig, on Mech anicsville anti Baltimore road, destroying property. Sonic avairy should be sent down from Ellicotts Mills to iutercept them. H. XV. HALLECK, Major- General and Chiqf of StatJ~ HDQII5. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., October 7, iS61. Major-General IIALLECK, Chief of Staff: Your dispatch received. The cavalry will be sent at once. LEW. WALLACE, Major- General, Commanding. IID~Rs. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, BIGIITII ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, hId., October 7, 1861. Brig. Gem B. B. TYLER, Relay House, Baltimore ((Jul Ohio Railroad: A small body of guerrillas are reported at Sandy Spring, on Mechan- icsville and Baltimore road, destroying property. General ilalleck directs that some cavalry be sent to intercept them. Please do it at once. Acknowledge receipt. SAME. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ iIDQRS. DEPT. OF TIlE SUSQUEJIANNA, No. 236. Chambersburg, Pa., September 7, 1861. * * * * * * 10. Capt. C. B. Hebble, Independent Mounted Company 100- d~iys I~ciimisylvania Volunteers, will scud, without delay, all of Captain War- mci is Independent Mounted Company 100-days Pennsylvania Volun- teems, now at Mercersbnrg, to Chambersburg, Pa., with directions to report to the assistant adjutant-general of the department for orders. By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTMENT OF TILE EAST, New York City, October 7~ 1(561. Brig. Gen. E. D. TOWNSEND, Ass ista at A d;n taii t- General: GENERAL: I have time honor to acknowledge the receipt of telegram front War Department (signed by i\Iaj. ii. Williamus) dated October 6 Page 318 318 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. 1864. The dispatch was received yesterday evening, and immediately acknowledged by telegraph. I ant directed to designate one of the regular regiments of infantry to take charge of the new depot for pris- oiiers at Harts Island and for recruitment. I have only two regiments of infantry under my command, the Sixth auid Seventh, leaving out the Twelfth, which is now at Fort Hamilton, and numbers 100 men, includ- ing band and recruits. The Third Infantry has received orders to report to General Augur, at Washington, in compliance with special orders received the day before, and is now awaiting transportation. The withdrawal of this regiment already cripples me very much, and if another regiment be withdrawut froum the forts to ~o to Harts Island I will be obliged to leave some of the forts without garrison. I append a list of the forts and their strength: Fort Hamilton, for duty, 100 men, includes band and recruits; Fort Lafayette, for duty, 70 men, Seventh Infantry; Fort [at] Sandy Hook, for dnty, 140 men, volunteer battery; Fort Richmond, for duty, 133 ii~en, Fifth Artillery; Fort Schuyler, for duty, 137 men, Seventh Infantry and recruits; Fort Wood, Bedlocs Island, for duty, 90 men, Sixth Infantry, includes band, and 73, detach- ments from volunteers; Battery Barracks, for duty, 61 men, Sixth Infantry, band and recruits, 14 men, detachment volunteer battery; Fort Columbus, for duty, 252 men, general service; Fort Columbus, for duty, 100 men, volunteer battery. ltespectfitlly, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, October 7, 18G4. Maj. Geum. J. A.DIx: * * * * * * A dispatch fromn General Stevenson reports an officer of ~ staff just arrived. General Sheridan was still at Ilarrisonburg. His supply trains were going on all right, occasionally interrupted by guerrilla patties, the only rebel force omt the road. This officer brought in the remains of Lieut. John II. Meigs, of the Engineer Corps (and only son of Brevet Major-General Meigs, Quartermaster-General), who was, killed by bushwhackers on Monday last while making a military survey. In the death of this gallant young officer the Department has occasion to deplore no or(Iinary loss. Last year he graduated at the Military Academy at West Point with the highest Itonors, at the head of his class; was commissioned as a licuttenant of engineers, aimd inimediately sent immto the field. He performed meritorious aimd distin- guished services during the campaigns of last year on the fortifications at Baltimore, at Harl)ers Ferry, and at Cunmberland, and was made chief engineer in the Army of the Shenandoah. In the campaigns he accompanied the army with Sigel, Hummter, aimd Sheridan. In every posi- tiomt he gave proof of great professional skill, personal courage, and devoted patriotism. One of the yoummgest and brightest of the military l)rofessiomI, he has fahleii aim early victimu to murderous rebel warfare. * * * B. M. STANTON Page 319 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 319 WHITE PLAINS, Yx., October 8, 18619.50 a. m. (Received 4.45 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The railroad is open to iRectortown and trains can run there. The telegraph is completed two miles beyond here. It can go no farther for want of wire, which is expected by train this morning. The rail- road construction train is also here awaiting material and for wood and water. Two locomotives were off the track last night, which delayed the return trains until this morning. The cavalry from Falls Church are at Manassas Junction delayed by the return trains. As soon as they arrive, and I can give the necessary orders for their dis- posal, I shall go to Rectortown. I do not think the track is in as good condition as it seemed at first. Heavy trains passing over it have shown that many of the ties are so much decayed as to be unable to hold the spikes, the track consequently spreads and the trains go off. The cavalry that arrived last night left at daylight this morning to find Mosby. The new regiments who were guarding the roads in front have not done as well as they should. C. C. AUGUR, Miajor- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CoRPS, October 8, 1864. Col. W. GAMBLE, Commanding Camp Stoneman: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that the three companies of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry which reported to your camp this evening be pushed right on to Alexandria, where, on arrival, they will report to Brigadier-General Slough for orders. Please use all dis- patch. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, October 8, 1864. Brigadier-General SLOUGH, Military Gorernor of A lexandria, Va.: Three companies of Eighth Illinois Cavalry will report to you for orders. The genem-al commanding directs that they be sent to him on the ~-ailroad by rail at once. Please advise these headquarters of their departure. Respectfully, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILiTARY DIVISION, Strasburg, October 8, 1864. Corps commanders will have their artillery and wagons hitched at daylight to-morrow morning. By command of Major-General Sheridan: JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff Page 320 820 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD:, AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CIHCULAR.1 HDQRS. DETACHMENT 19TH ARMY Cois Near Strasburg, Va., October 8, 18G4. The artillery and wagons of this command will be hitched up at day- light to-morrow morning pursuant to order froni headquarters Middle Military Division. By order of Brevet Major-General Emory: DUNCAN S. WALKER, A8sistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIvIsIoN, Near & rasburg, October 8, 18Gi1150 a. m. Brevet Major-General TORBERT, Chief of Carairy: GENERAL: This morning, so- far as I can learn, 300 or 400 rebel cavalry have been dogging at Merritt all day, sometimes exchanging shots with his rear guard. There does not appear to be more than 300 or 400 of them. I want General Merritt to turn on them and follow them with either the whole or such portion of his force as he may deem necessary. This will be done to-day. Very res~)ecttully, your obedient servant, P. 11. SHERII)AN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY l)IvISIoN, Near AS~trasbnrg, Va., October 8, iSGI. General MERRITT: GENERAL: Inclosed I send you a dispatch* just received from the major-general commanding the army. General Torbert desires you to send out force enough and at a distance that will force tIme enemy to fully develop his strength. The remainder of your division you cami put in camp in their present position. Jam, general, very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, JR., A ssis tant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October 8, 18(11. J3rigadier-General MERRITT, Co)n man ding First Dirision: GENERAL: General Sheridan orders that the cavalry attack time enemy in the morning. So you will be ready to move at 6 oclock in the morning. General Custer is ordered to move up the Rack road early in the mornin ~v, ammd communicate with you when he gets opposite Round Top Mountain. You will have a force on or in sight of the Back road, about where your right was to-night, to know when lie comes up. We cant tell now on which road their main force will be iii the morning. Send a strong reconnaissance up the pike in the morn- ing to ascertain their strength. You must put every available man in Sec iiext, (ill I Page 321 Cnip. LVJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 321 the fight. Take all the fighting men from the pack train. By the way, General Sheridan is terribly down on the size of your pack traiu; have it cut down. Have all your provost guards placed in rear to prevent stragglers going to the rear. A. T. A. TORBERT, Brevet Jfajo r- General, Commanding Cavalry. liAnPnns Fnnnv, XV. VA., October 8, 1861. lion. E. lxi. STANTON, iS1ecretary of IVar: General Sheridans trains for supplies have arrived at Martinsburg, with 169 rebel prisoners and large numbers of destitute refugees seek- ing homes in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Shall I furnish transportation on Governments account We ought to get rid of them. Respectfully, ~NO. I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Ha8hington City, October 8, 1861. flu rper~~ Ferry: You are authorized to furnish transportation to destitute loyal ref- ugees. EI)WIN lxi. STANTON, ASeeretary of War. I IARPERS FERRY, October 8, 1861. lion. E. lxi. STANTON, ASecretary of War: Dispatch just received from Colonel Tolles, chief quartermaster, states Sheridans army arrived at Woodstock this morning and will be at Strasburg to-day. Nothing further received. JOhN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. hEADQUARTERs U. S. FORCES, Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Martinsburg, Va., October 8, 1861. Commanding District of fl(Qpers Ferry: GENERAL: This post is much in imeed of an organ ize(l force of cay airy, not only for escorts, but to be used as scouting parties. With a strong regiment that had some previous experience in this vicinity, I think mach could be domie to rid us of the guerrilla bands, which now cause so much annoyance and render transportation without large escorts dangerous. Should the niatter macct with your approval, I would very respectfully request that a good cavalry regiment be assigned here. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. II. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. 21 R RVOL XLIII, PT I Page 322 322 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. WASHINGTON, October 8, 186111.30 a. m. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore, Md.: It is reported that Mosby, with about 800 men, has come through Snickers Gap, and, as the guards have been removed from the Potomac to guard tbe Manassas railroad, he may cross the river and make a raid into Marylaiid. Send all your available mounted force toward Rockville to guard Washington Branch, and also look out sharp for Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. 11. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. BALTIMORE, MD., October 8, 18641 p. m. (Received 3 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK: Your telegram just received. General Tyler is ordered to execute it at once. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. (The general commanding being absent.) WAsuI~GToN, October 8, 1861. Major-General WALLACE, Baltimore, Md.: As Mosby has four pieces of artillery, it will be well to send a bat- tery with your cavalry. Inforni your men that Mosby rides in a buggy on account of wounds, and may thus be recognized. ii. W. HALLECK, JII(yor- Geacral and Chief of Staff. BALTIMORE, MD., October 8, 18612.30 p. m. (Received 3.40 p. 111.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Your telegram received. General Tyler has been ordered to send four pieces of artillery, with all the available cavalry he has, which will not be over 200 mcii, to Rockville. lie has 200 dismounted men of First Delaware Cavalry. Requisition was made for horses a month ago, and not heard from yet. The quartermaster here has no horses, or would furnish them at once. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. (The general commanding being absent.) BALTIMORE, MD., October 8, 1864 4 p. m. (Received 5 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: General Tyler reports that all the available cavalry was sent last night to vicinity of Rockville. Smiths cavalry was to push down through Sandy Spring and drive the guerrillas upon Colonel Knight, who woul Page 323 ChAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 323 be ready to receive them at Rockyille. lie has called in all his detach- inents, and seiit them with the artillery to strengthen Colonel Knight, First Delaware Cavalry. He says he considers the force too weak to iiitrnst the artillery with. He has been (lirected to use his infantry on line of Baltiniore and Ohio Railroad. If you can send 200 horses, the nien are at the Relay House. SAML. 13. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Tue general coinnianding being absent.) BALTIMORE, MD., October 8, 18G4L3Op. m. Major-General IIALLEcK, (Received 5.30 p. in.) Chief of Staff: General Tylers infantry force is very weak also; not over 600 men. General Morris has been directed to hold four companies Ninety-first New York Veterans, to send to General Tyler, if needed. This is all the available force we have. The Fifth Massachusetts has Eastern Shore on election duty. to the SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. (The general commanding being absent.) BALTIMORE, October 8, 1861. Col. JA~IEs A. HARDIE, (Rec~ived 10.45 l~ ill.) Inspector- General: The First Regiment Eastern Shore Maryland Volunteers and Smiths cavalry are nearly all mentioned in the list of proper subjects to be furloughed, sent to Major Wood in obedience to your telegram of the 4th instant. They are with General Tyler, who, in o~dience to Gen- eral Hallecks order to-day, has sent the cavalry to Rockville and the infantry down the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. It is very likely they cannot 1)C relieved, as there are no troops to relieve them with. They can vote where they are stationed in the State, according to the new constitution. I thought best to report this to you. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCt~, Assistant Adjutant- (Thu cral. HnQEs. FIRST SEPARATE BRIG., EJGWrII AuMY CORPS, 8, 1861. Lient. Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Relay louse October Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighth Army Corps, Baltimore COLONEL: I have the honor to report that upoii receipt of your tel- egram relative to guerrillas at San(ly Spring, I at once telegraphed Lieutenant-Colonel Knight, comininandin a First Delaware Cavalry, at Monrovia, as follows: Start at once with all the available men you can spare and intercept a hand of guerrillas reported at Sandy Spring, Montgomery County, on Mechanicsyille and Baltimore road. Cover the country well between there and the river, and I wil Page 324 324 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. send a force from here to drive them down to you. Give this your personal atten- tion. Take twenty men from Monocacy. Permit no delay, and report when yon are ready to start. The men must be on the groull(l between this and morning. The party is small, but use all your force. Send detachment to llrookville to guard that road. Arrest everyone that cant give satisfactory account of themselves. At same tinie I issued aii order to Smiths Maryland Cavalry, who had just returned to camp from a three (lays scout, as follows: Lieutenant Vincent, commanding Smiths Company, Independent Maryland Cav- alry, with fifty men, will proceed at once to Sandy Spring and Mechani~svi1le, Montgomery Connty, for the purpose of intercepting guerrillas, who are reporte~l to be destroying property, & c., in that vicinity. Lieutenant Vincent will scour the country in that neighborhood thoroughly and arrest all snsl)icious parties who can- not properly account for themselves. Lieutenant Vincent also received verbal instructions to proceed direct to Sandy Spring, through Ellicotts Mills, and npou his arrival to report to Lieutenant-Colonel Knight. lie was further directed while on the march to use every precaution to arrest any of these par- ties who might be straggling through the country. About 6 p. in. the following was received from Colonel Knight: I leave immediately. Some delay occasioned by the meu IroIlL Monocacy. I then telegraphed him as follows: Do not allow this to be a failure. Follow the villains to the cud ,and have as few to try by court as possible. No report has as yet been received from Lienteitant-Colonel Knight as to the success of the movemeiit. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. B. TYLER, I3rigadier- General, Commanding. CONFIDENTIAL.] BALTIMORE, Mm, Octobcr 8, 1861. Brig. Gen. B. B. TYLER, Relay House: GENERAL: Please iuake report of the number of eoml)anies, and their strength, you can hold in readiness to be sent to this city, if needed, on the 11th, 12th, or 13th instant; also whether you have a section of Ranks battery yet at the Relay il-louse. If not, how 50011 could it be brought from Monrovia to this city, and hold it in readiness for that i)lirl)ose? By cominaiid of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE. Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. FIRST SEPARATE BRIG., EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Relay house, lid., October 8, 1861. Lieut;Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighth Army Corps, Baltimore COLONEL: Your confidential letter of this (late is just to hand ,and in reply have to say that I have but 534 infantryineit in my command for duty. They, as you are aware, are scattere(l from Monocacy to Annapolis Junction. There are only eighty-eight men (mostly boys) of the Ninety-third New York State National Guards at this post, an Page 325 ChAr. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 325 they are now under orders to proceed to Elysyille to strengthen that post; and, in view of the information of Mosbys approach, I regard Elysville second to no other place along my line in importance. It is nearly as accessible as any other portion of the railroad where they can inflict much damage. The Ninety-third sent away, I shall have the garrison at Fort iDix, consisting of 136 men of First Eastern Shore Regiment, a portion of which could be used for a short time if required. The section of Ranks battery I had here was sent to Monrovia on Momiday last, by your order, and I am just in receipt of telegram from Captain Rank that his four guns are now on the road to,join Lieutenant- Colonel Knight at Rockville. The other section is at Monocacy Junc- tion, and would require a little notice to get it down here, particularly if the river should be flush. My whole line is in a very exposed con- dition, with scarcely troops enough in the whole command to properly guard and picket one of the important posts. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant E. B. TYLER, Brigad#er- General, Commanding. BALTIMORE, MD., October 8, IRGI. Brig. ({en. E. B. TYLER, Relay Ifonse, Baltimore and Ohio i?ailroa(i: Look out for the other section of the battery; it may be needed here; therefore please keep it in readiness. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, A ~istant A djntant- General. RELAY hOUSE, October 8, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel LAWRENCE: I shall require some ten to fifteen hours notice to get the section of artill cry d owui from Monocacv. E. B. TYLER, Brigad~er- General. IIDQIZ8. FIRST SEPARATE I ~R1 Cf., EIGHTh ARMY CORPS, Relay house, October 8, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel LAWRENCE, Ass- is-tan t Adjutant- General: COLONEL: You will see what disposition I made of the available cavalry of my command last night, hoping to entrap the guerrillas at Sandy Spring, the most of which you will discover will be in the viemiuty of Rockville and will have scoured that country well by this timiie. I have sent a mounted orderly to Lieutenant Vincent, command. ing Smiths cavalry, to join Lieutenant-Colonel Knight at Rockville, and aui orderly has also been started from Monrovia to notify Colonel Knight of the artillery being ordered to join him, wiLh such of the cavalry as can be picked up from the different points, so that Lienteim- ant-Colonel Knight will have something over 200 mounted men with him, besides the artillery. I cannot g-ive the exact numuber because of the scattered posts we have been trying to guard. I will do all tha Page 326 326 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. IN. can be done with what men I have at my disposal. My whole line is open to a successful assault if made by 800 men, but we will let them know we are about before they drive us off. \T~~y respectfully, your obedient servant, E. B. TYLER, Brigadier- General. BALTIMORE, Mm, October 8, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, Relay House, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: Use your infantry as best you can, to protect the road or support your cavalry and artillery. Four companies of infantry are held in readiness to go to you if absolutely needed. iDo riot call for them unless you really need them, as they will be wanted here. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. BALTIMORE, MD October 8, 1864. Brigadier-General LocKwooD: GENERAL: I have the honor to inforiu you that there is some danger of a raid of Mosby on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, arid General Ilalleck has ordered all General Tylers cavalry and artillery to Rock- ville, and directed that his infantry protect the road. As lie is weak in all arms, I have directed General Morris to hold four companies of the Ninety-first New York to be held in readiness, and have ordered Colonel Bowman to send two companies of the One hundred and ninety- third Pennsylvania to report to you, and have requested you to hold four companies of the One hundred and ninety-fourth in readiness to-morrow, as General Halleck may order more infantry to General Tyler at any moment. I have fully informed General Halleck of the situation and have presented all his orders thus far received. He telegraphed this p. m. that Mosby has passed through Snickers Gap, with 800 cavalry and five pieces of artillery, and directed that General Tylers troops be sent to Rockville. It has been done, and all is quiet ]iow. If iufaritry is ordered, I will be l)repared to send you five coin- panics and the same number for General Morris. Respectfully, your obedient servant, SATVIL. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD SEPARATE Bnm., EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, October 8, 1864. Lient. Col. S. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighth Army (Jo~ps, Baltimore COLONEL: In reply to your communication of this day, I havethe honor to state that I can hold in readiness for service on the 11th, i 2th, and 13th instant the following troops: Company A, One hundred and ninety- fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 39 men for duty; Company B, 50 r1ieu for duty: Company D, 69 men for duty; Company E, 36 men for duty Page 327 Cnxr. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 327 Company F, 54 men for duty; Company 1, 63 men for duty; total, 311. This does ~iot include the garrisons of the various forts, or the com- panies which are on provost guard duty. Yours, very respectfully, IIEN1~Y H. LOCKWOOD, Brigadier- General. WASIJINGT ON, October 9 ,~ 1864. Major-General SHERIDAN, Woodstoek, Ye.: General Grant directs me to say that you had better, at all events, retain the Nineteenth Corps, and that the time of sending the Sixth Corps and a division of cavalry must be left to your judgment. Sup- plies will continue to be sent by Martinsbnrg till you order otherwise. General Grant directed the opening of the Front Royal road. It is about open to Rectortown. Should yon determine not to use it for supplies, the work should be discontinued. Mosbys band has troubled the workmen some, but not seriously. He is reported to have about 800 men and four cannon. H. W. IJALLECK, ]IE~~o v-General and Chief o/ ~S~ta~ STRASBURO-, VA., October 9, 186412 midnight. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: (Received 11th.) In coming back to this point I was not follo ~ed in until late yester- day, when a large force of cavalry appeared in my rear. 1 then halted the command to offer battle by attacking the enemy. I became satis- fied that it was only all the rebel cavalry of the Valley commanded by liosser, and directed Torbert to attack at daylight this morning and finish this Savior of the Valley. The attack was handsomely made. Custer, commandii~g Third Cavalry Division, charged on the Back road, and Merritt, commanding First Cavalry Division, on the Strasburg pike. Merritt captured five pieces of artillery. Custer captured six pieces of artillery, with caissons, battery forge, & c. The two divisions captured thirty-seven wagons, ambulances, & c. Among the wagons captured are the headquarters wagons of Rosser, Lomax, Wickham, and Colonel 1~ollarcl [Munford0?]. The number of prisoners captured will be about 330. The enemy after being charged by our gallant cavalry were broken, and ran; they were followed by our men on the jump twenty-six miles, through Mount Jackson and across the North Fork of the Shenandoah. I deemed it best to make this delay of 011C (lay here and settle this new cavalry general. The eleven pieces of artillery capture(l to-day make thirty-six pieces captured in the Valley since the 19th of September. . Some of the artillery captured was ne~ and never had been fired before. The pieces were marked, Tredegar Works. Major- General. CIROULAR.1 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DfVISION, October 9, 1861. Corps commanders will. while the command is on the march, immedi- ately after their headquarters havc been established, send two courier Page 328 328 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. to these headquarters, to remain during the night, for the purpose of more safely transmitting communications to the several corps head- quarters. By command of Major-General Sheridaii: C. KINGSBURY, JR., ilssisten t A dj~ taint- General. WASHINGTON, October 9, 186412.1 ~ p. m. Major-General AUGUR, White Plains, Ye.: General Stevenson says that Mosbys force is about 800, with four cannon. A few guerrillas have appeared north of the Potomac. Cav- alry have been sent from Baltimore to Rockville and vicinity to look them up. I think you ha(I better take some of the infantry out of the forts to guard the trains. II. W. IIALLECK, ]lfejor- General end (Jhi(f of Stafl~. ALEXANDRIA VA October 9 18646.30 a. m. , ., (Received 8.10 a. in.) ASSISTA~NT ADJUTANT-GENERAL lice dquerters Depe rtmen t ~/ Hasltinyton: Three companies of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, about 160 men, went forward by rail this morning at 6 oclock, with instructioiis to report to Major- General Augur. Respectfully, ;JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brige(1 icr- Gee eve 1 of 1 ~oinnteers. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, A~trasbnrg, October 9, 18641.30 p. m. Major-General WRIGHT, Corn in en ding Sixth Army (Jorps The following- dispatch from General Torberts front, by signal: Woo l)ST( )CK, Octebcr 9, 120-1. General Torbert is several miles oii, lie has eapturell three more gulls aiid seven wagons. He is still pressing en. The rebel infinitiv are at New Market. MERRITT, Lice/cue of end Signal Officer. Very res~)ecttnh1y, your Ol)e(lieiIt servont K W. FORSYTH, Chief (j eSttitfl. [Ifl(lOrSefllOllt.J HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS October 9, 1864. It was previously reported that five guns had beeii capture(l. C. II. WITITTELSEY, A ssistan t A dJutanl- General Page 329 CHAP. IN.] CORRESPONI)ENCE, ETCUNION. 329 HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October .9, 18G4. jMaj. Gen. W. II. EMORY:] GENERAL: This command is greatly in need of clothing, especially shoes and stockings. No clothing has been received since the first week in September. Large numbers of the men are barefooted, and the ambulances carry many able-bodied men who are rendered inefficient from time want of shoes. I have lna(le great exertions to procure clothing, especially shoes au(1 stockings, to be sent up by the supply train, but for some reason, while other commands are fnrnished, this corps re- ceives nothing. Whether this is because of the neglect of the quarter- masters at the other end of the route, or because 110 clothing can be obtained by them, I am not officially informed; but 1 respectfully sug- gest that some plan should be adopted to insure a more prompt receipt of such stores as are absolutely essential to the comfort and efficiency of the soldiers. Very respectfully, 0. 0. POTTER, Captain and Chief Quartermaster. [Indorseniei~t.] HEADQUARTERS I)ETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 9, 13G4. Respectfully forwarded. Tile attention of the general commandin ~ is invited to the within statement of my chief quartermaster, from which it appears that all his requisitions have been duly made, but that while my corps cammot get any of its requisitions for clothing filled other commands are duly fur- nished. I request that the l)elson responsible for this apparent par- tiality may be directed to ijil the requisitions made by this corps, for clothing that is absolutely necessary, as well as those of other coin- maiids. Many of my men are barefooted, and most of them came from the South, with only the thinnest of snmnmer clothing. W. 11. EMORY, I}rerct Major- General. Corn rn anding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY MIDDLE MILITARY DIYISIoN, October 9, ISGi. Major-General SHERIDAN: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that II advanced from my camp, just south of Round Top Mountain, with the First and Third l)ivisions ot Cavalry, and immediately engaged General Rosser, c ani ii anding all time rebel cavalry; whipped and totally routed his whole command, driving them a distance of twenty miles, capturing eleven piecesof artillery ill their wagons an(l ambulances, aimd a large number of men and horses. A immore (letailed report will be forwarded. A. T. A. TORRERT, Brevet Major- GeHeral. OCTonER 9, 1864.] General SHERIDAN: You niust hold tIme pike with infamitry. I need :ill my cavalry oim time TORI}ERT, (/c neral Page 330 330 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD,, AND PA. [CHAP. LV [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Strasbnrq, October 9, 1864. Respectfully referred to Brevet Major-General Crook. General Sheridan has notified General Torbert that he would look out for the pike, and directed General Torbert to use his cavalry on the Back road. I am instructed by General Sheridan to say that he wishes you to look out for the pike. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Chief of Staff. HARPERS FERRY, VA., October 9, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The Provisional Divisiori, 3,500 strong, fully armed and equipped, and properly organized, march to front to-morrow morning. Received report of this morning from medical director at WinchesterFederal wounded, 1,199; rebel wounded, 890; total, 2,089. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MEADQUARTERS MILITARY DISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, W. Va., October 9, 1864. Maj. Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Commanding Middle Military Division: GENERAL: I have sent to the front no stragglers, convalescents, & c., reporting to these headquarters. Since your order to arm all such troops have retained them, organized them into companies and battal- ions, niaking two brigades and aggregating 3,500. They are thor- oughly armed and equipped, and go forward ready for ininmediate use. They will leave to-morrow morning, reaching you by Wednesday, as- suming you to be still at Strasbnrg. Curries brigade has doubtless reached you. Two veteran regiments, Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine. reported to me. I ordered them to Martiiisburg to increase the force at that point sufficiently to do promptly the fatigue labor neces- sary to expedite your supplies. I have no infantry proper at this post, the garrison consisting of Fifth New York Artillery, two (hismnounted cavalry regiments, Twelfth Pennsylvania, aIl(l Coles cavalry. I have depleted the post to the lowest possible point. At the Remount Camp, I am informed by Major Otis, all dismounted men will be mounted and sent forward this week. The remount camp of Averells command, now at Martinsburg, has a screw loose. The difficulty is, perhaps, attributa- ble to the fact that the officers are of that class that you may well style worthless. Your supplies have been forwarded with all prompt- ness; and, if at any time they have been short, it is not because of delay at your supply depot. You state that certain numbers of your dis- patches have Ihiled to reach you. All dispatches have been promptly sent forward by special couriers as soon as received. In all cases where dispatches were marked important they were duplicated, an dsent by different couriers; and, by Colonel Currie, I sent you copies of al Page 331 CHAP. LVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 331 important dispatches, for which operator has failed to get receipts. I send you with this three dispatches receive(l to-day. I shall continue to send forward all troops arriving, until further orders. I sent out as escorts and conriers every available man of Twelfth Pennsylvania Cay- airy; they have not been returned. Of course, I am left without a courier party, and am conil)elled to call on Averells remount camp for couriers for these dispatches. I imagine these men are, perhaps, loafing with the army, without the knowledge of headquarters. Should like to have them receive an Irishmans hint to return. I have nothing of special interest to communicate. We have just beard that continued successes attend General Grant. It was currently reported. at Balti- more yesterday that lie ha(l possession of Petersburg. 1 think there is no question to his holding the South Side road. if you require any changes in my operations here, indicate them, and I shall act with all l)romptIless. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General, Comm an ding. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Winchester, Va., October 9, 1SGI9.5Y) a. m. General J. B. STEVENSON, Harpers Ferry, W. Va.: Furimish an escort to a construction party which will soon arrive to work on the railroad to Winchester. P. H. SIIEPUDAN, Major- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Winchester, Va., October 9, 18G4. Colonel Currie, commanding Third Brigade, First Division, Nine- teenth Army Corps, will move his command to the northeastern side of the town at 7 a. m. to-morrow, and be ready to escort a train of about 241 wagons to Martinsburg. Upon arriving there, he will report to Brigadier-General Seward, commanding U. S. forces at that post. By command of 0. Edwards, colonel commanding post: JAMES W. LATTA, A ssistant .itdjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTI\IENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Near Strasbury, Va., October 9, iSGI. Brig. Gen. J. C. SULLIVAN, Corn dg. First Separate Brigade, Department of West Virginia, Charleston, W. Va.: GENERAL: The commandumig general directs that you turn over your comumand to Col. J. H. Oley, Seventh West Virginia Cavalry, and report, with as little delay as possible, to Maj. Gemi. P. H. Sheridan, commanding Middle Military I)ivision, for orders. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient sarvant, P. G. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 332 332 OPEkATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. renA?. IN. iI3ALTIMORE, MD., OCtobCr 9, 18644 p. m. (Received 4.30 p. in.) Major-General IIALLECK: General Tyler reports: The thieving devils at Sandy Spring, twenty-four hours before receiving orders. Two of the thieves were captnre(1 and one killed by the citizens. Four pieces of artillery, with twenty-five cavalry, had reached Rockyille. Colonel Knights cavalry had not reached there at 2 this a. in. have sent couriers in all directions to hurry up Knight. SAME. B. LAWRENCE, itssistant Adjutant- General. BALTIMORE, MD., October 9, 186410.30 p. in. Major-General HALLECIC, (Received 11.15 p. in.) Chief oJ Staff: General Tyler reports that Knights cavalry was at Nealsville at 3 p. m. to-day, and scouts out toward the river. No enemy discovered. Smiths cavalry will reach Rockville before morning, and lie is no longer uneasy about the artillery. Knight caught two of the thieves who were at Sandy Spring. Knight is ordered to join Smith at Rockville at once. SAME. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. (The general cominaiidiiig being absent.) BALTIMORE MD October 9 18 Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, Relay House, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: Will try and send the harness. Please report as soon as you heai that the cavalry has reached Rockville. The battery will of cc be much exposed until theii. , urse, SAME. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. RELAX- H OITSE~ October 9, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel LAWRENCE: Smiths cavalry will reach Rockville some time to-night. IX 8. TYLER, Rriga(lier- General. HDQRS. FIRST SEPARATE BRIG., EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Relay house Md October 9 1864. Lient. Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighth Army Corps COLONEL: The following telegram was receive(l at (i p. in. from Lieu- tenant-Colonel Knight: HEADQUARTERS Frnsv DELAWARE CAVALRY, iMcalsrillc, Md., Sn ndey, October 9, 18G4fJ p. m. Bri~. Gen. E. E. TYLER: I have just received your orders. I will send a sufficient force to Rank, at Rock- yule, at once. The citizens of Sandy Spring arlne(l and attacked the baud of hf Page 333 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 333 teen rebels that appeared there on Friday afternoon, killing one, wounding several, and taking one prisoner. The most of theni escaped in this direction. I am after them. I sent Lieutenant Vincent, with Smiths men, yester(lay in the (lirection of ilriadell)hia after four or five who escal)e(l that way. I picked up two in the woods yesterday, supposed to belong to the same band. I am pushing my scout toward the river. N. B. KNIGHT, Lientenan t- Colonel, Commanding. Lieutenant \ incent, with Smiths Jndel)endent Maryland Cavalry, has left for Rockville, and will arrive there before morning. By this time, I judge a sufficient force has arrived at Rockyille to properly support Captain Rank. I feel no uneasiness about the safety of his guns now. I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. B. TYLER, General Comm JThgadicr- anding. BALTIMORE, MD., October 9, 1861 10.30 p. m. 13iig. C-en. E. B. TYLER, Ohio Railroad: Relay House. Baltimore and Your dispatch from Knight at 8 p. m. received. No harness to be had here. If the section at the Monocacy is needed here will give you timely notice. Can send you four companies of infantry if you really need it, but it is wanted here unless you do. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. RELAY HOIJSE, MD., October 9, 1864. (Via War Department. Received 12.20 p. in.) Capt. W. D. RANK, Rockrillc, Md.: Send orderlies to find Knight or any other cavalry, with orders to ~oiu you immediately. Send to Sandy Spring and Mechaniesyille for Smiths cavalry. Lose no time until you are supported. 1 will order in fimutry to you. At appearance of enemy in force move toward Wash- ington. Save your gnus at all hazards. Report very often. F. B. TYLER, Brigadier- General. STRASBURG, VA, October 10, 1561C a. m. (Received 9 P. in.) Maj. C-en. H. W. HALLECK, Chief t~/~ 3ta if: - I have just sent a dispateir announcing our victory in tIme great cav- alry engagement of yesterday. The Sixth Army Corps will be at I rout Royal tonight. If the railroad is completed to that point, send forward transportation to that corps10,000 Ii iei u. Major- General. ~See Sheridan to Grant, 9th, nmid~.ight, p. 327 Page 334 334 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ICHAP. LV. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY I)IVISION, No. 51. October 10,1864. * * * * * * 6. Brig. Gen. James D. Fessenden, U. S. Volunteers, having reported at these headquarters, in compliance with orders from the War I)epart- nient, will report for assignment to duty to Brevet Major-General Emory, commanding Nineteenth Corps. 7. Licut. Edward Myers, First U. S. Cavalry, and acting aide-dc- camp to Brigadier-General Merritt, will proceed to Washington, D. C., with flags captured from the enemy in the engagement of the 9th in- stant. This duty being accomplished he will at once rejoin his proper command. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjmtant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, Ileetortown, Va., October 10, 18648 a. m. (Received 1.40 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: An officer from General Sheridans command arrived here at 1 a. m. this morning. He left Front Royal (near which his division of cav- alryPowellsis stationed) at 3 p. m. yesterday. He reports General Sheridans command at Strasburg, with the enemy close upon him, and that there is constant skirmishing. The officer returned to General Sheridan early this morning with the dispatch in cipher received yes- terday. He reports the railroad as entirely destroyed from Piedmont to Front Royal. The railroad is now completed to Piedmont. The construction superintendent says it will take eight (lays to complete it to Front Royal. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. WAsHINGTON, October 10, 186411.04 a. m. Major-General AUGUR, & dent or Rectortown, Va: You are the judge of what and how mnammy troops can be taken from Washington to re-enforce the line of the railroad. General Sheridan has been ask-ed to send troops through Manassas Gal) to meet yours, but I cannot tell when he will be able to do 50. II. W. 1-IALLECK, M(Vor- General and Chief of Stat HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, Reetortown, October 10, 18649 p. m. (Received 11.30 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I shall commence to-morrow l)uil(hing small stockades which will be so near each other as to command the entire track. This will ecoii Page 335 Cii & r. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 335 mize men. If this does not answer, I think I shall have to adopt some- thing like Washburnes plan, and fit up on each train quarters for prominent secessionists to accompany it. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. RECTORTOWN VA October 10 18647.30 p. m. , ., (Received 11.40 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have just learned that a rail was taken up about a mile this side of X\Thite Plains, aiid a returu train from here mu off the track, and theu fired upon by men concealed in a thicket on the side. I have not learned the amount of damage done. Simply patrolling the track and guarding the bridges is not going to be sufficient on this road; it must l)C literally guarded the whole way. I am sending back a battalion of cavalry to remain in vicinity of White Plains and thoroughly search the vicinity of track. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, October 10, 1864. (Received 4.40 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, ilead quarters Department of Washington: The rebels displaced a rail a short distance beyond White Plains this morning, throwing a train off the track; they then fired into it. Mr. McCrickett, assistant superintendent of the railroad, and several others are reported killed. Respectfully, JINO. P. SLOUGh, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Strasbnrg, October 10, 1861. Brevet Major-General EMORY, Commanding Nineteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you move your corps to the north side of Cedar Creek and halt there for farther orders. You will not move your corps until after the Sixth Corps, with all its transportation, & e., has crossed Cedar Creek. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lientenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY 1)IYISION, Strasburg, October 10, 1864. Brevet Major-General CROOK, Commanding Army o/ West Virginia GENERAL: I am imistructed by the m~~Jor-general commanding to in- form you that he is going to Front Royal this afternoon, and that you will be in command of all the troops, cavalry, infantry, & c., here. Th Page 336 336 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. general wishes all the captured artillery, & c., sent, via Winchester, to Martinsl)urg early to-morrow morning. It should be parked on the north side of Cedar Creek to-night, and a strong influitry guard sent with the above property. Very respectfully, & c., JAS. xv. FOIISYTH, Chief of AStaff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGiNIA Near Strasburg, Va., October 10, idGI. Licut. Col. R. S. NORTHCOTT, Twelfth West Virginia ftfty., Corn 4g. 2d Brig., 1st Infty. Dir.: COLONEL: The commanding general directs that you report, with your brigade, with as little delay as possible, to Licut. Col. James W. Forsyth, chief of staff, Middle Military Division, at General Sheridans headquarters, on the north side of Cedar Creek, for the purpose of guarding captured artillery, wagons, prisoners, & c., to Martinsburg, XV. Va., to-morrow morning early. You will tnrn over the prisoners and property to the commanding officer at Martinsburg, W. Va., taking re- ceipts for the same. After the completion of this duty you will return with your brigade and join your division. You will go via Winchester, Va., and return by same route. An official copy of this will be fur- nished the commanding officer First Infantry Division. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. (+. IllEli, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIAlzPEns FERRY, October 10, 1861. (Received 8.35 ~ mu.) lion. E. IXI. STANTON, Secretary oJ War: General Sheridan just heard froni. Our cavalry attacked enemy be- yond Fishers Hill, whipped them, driving them beyond Mount Jackson, capturing 11 pieces of artillery and 350 prisoners. The rei)els scattered into the woods and mountains. Respectfully, JOHN B. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. WASI-LIN~3ToN I). C October 10, 1864. ,- -., J. \V. GARRETT, E5q., Ca )fl den Station, Baltimore 11(1.: Arms shipped from here on the 5th did not reach harpers Ferry till the 8ththree days. It appears that this delay was caused by your agent here, Mr. Koontz, requiring such packages to be consigned to the care of Captain Camming, at Baltimore, instead of quartermaster at Harpers Ferry. The Secretary of Wau directs that stores for Harpers Ferry be hereafter sent direct to that place, and not through the quar- termaster at Baltimore, unless so ordered by him. 11. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chif of ASta/T Page 337 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 337 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY Div ISbN, Colonel EDWARDS, October 10, 1864. Corn man ding, Whtchester COLONEL: In reply to your communication of October 1,1 am dfrected by the major-general commanding to state that you will, until further orders, report direct to these headquarters, and not through Brigadier- General Stevenson. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, Jn., Assistant Adjutant- General. MARTINSBURG, October 10, 1861. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: A staff officer of General Sheridans has just arrived from the front with dispatches, which have been forwarded. He reports that our cavalry attacked the enemy beyond Fishers Hill, whipped them, driv- ing them beyond Mount Jackson, and capturing 11 field pieCes and some 350 prisoners, number not yet definitely known. The rebels scattered into the woods. Our cavalry returned ~x Brook. , ~ithout being pursued, to Toms W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS, Capt. DAN. SHEETS: Cumberland, October 10, 1864. The general commanding directs that you send a scout, consisting of a icliable commissioned officer and twenty men, from the infantry of your coin mand, to proceed, via Greenland Gap, thence via the west side of Knobly Mountain, to the mouth of Seneca Creek. The scouts will take ten days rations. Mr. David Long will accompany them as guide. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant. C. A. FREEMAN, Lieatenaut and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General,. I IEAJ)Q UA 11TERS~ Cumberland, Md., October 10, 18u4. Capt. JOHN FISHER: The general commanding directs that you niake a detail of a lieu- tenant and twenty irien from your command to complete the block- house at Bloomington, with instructions to occupy and hold it after completion until ordered otherwise; also that for the materials neces- sai-y ~11 completing the same the lieutenant in charge will be instructed to make requisition 111)011 the (lel)ot quartermaster at New Creek, NY Va. I am, very respectfully, your oi)e(hieut servant, C. A. FREEMAN, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant A~jutant- General, 22 H HVOL XLIII, PT I Page 338 838 OP~TIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [ONa. LV. BALTIxo, MD., October 10, 18647.80 p. a. HALLECK, M%jor.General Chief of Staff: General Tyler reports Knights and Smiths cavalry ~oneto Clark. burg with the artillery. Knight ordered it,as he aid (,i~ksb~g was more central than Rockville, and covering Nolands, Conrads, and Edwards Fords, which points Mosby was reported approaching. Gen- eral Tyler ordered him to return to Bockville, in obedience to your first order. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant A4jntant.Geueral. HDQRs. FIRST SEPARATE BRIGADE, EIGHTH Asxx CORPS, Relay Hose, October 10, 1864. Lient. CoL S. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant A4jntant-General: COLONEL: I send you copy of message just received from Lieutenant- Colonel Knight. You will see by consulting the map that Clarksburg covers the fords.nained Mid the ones Mosby will be most likely to cross at yet on learning from another source, and before receiving his tele- gram that he had ordered the battery at Clarksburg, I sent him tele- gram, a copy of which I inclose. I am, sir, very respectfully, E. B. ~ BrfrjaMer-OeiseraL [luolosusNo. 1.] Two MinES PRO)! CLARKSDuRG, October 10, 1864. General E. B. TnZR: A detachment sent out yesterday morning under Lieutenant Davis captured about $100 worth of goods from those rebels that escaped Friday. I pushed tbrward yesterday as far as Barneeville, but could not And them. This morning early I sent a scout toward Nolands Ferry, another to Conrads Ferry, Whites Ford, and Edwards Ferry. I will telegraph you this evening of the state of things along the river. It was reported to me yesterday that those fords were not guarded. Mosby is reported approaching those points. I ordered Rank last night to return to Clarksburg. This is the most central point I shall remain out here scouting the country for several days. I have ordered supplies to Hyattstown. I dont want any infantry yet N. B. KNIGHT, Lieuteusant-Oolonel, Gommandiug, Sc. [Inolosur. N. U Captain FERGUSON, Monrovia: I learn that Knight has ordered the artillery to Clarksburg. Send courier notifying him to inforni me of his movements and the objects he expects to accomplish. General Halleck ordered the guns to Bock- vile, and there must be some good reason for their removal. B. B. TYLER, Brigadier-Genera Page 339 Ca& p. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 339 HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHUH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., October 10, 18646.30 p. m. Brio Gen. B. B. TYLER, Relay HoUse, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: General Hallecks orders were to send the cavalry and artillery down the Mechanicsville pike to Rockville to cover the Washington Branch. I have reported Knights movements to General lialleck. Your orders to Knight to return to liockville from Clarksburg should be carried out. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. [OCTOBER 11, 1864.For Grant to Stanton, and reply of latter, relative to changing the commands of Generals Sheridan, Meade, Hancock, and others, see Vol. XLI, Part III, pp. 773, 774.] CITY POINT, VA., October 11, 18649.30 p. in. Maj. Gen. H. W. TIALLECK, (Received 9.30 a. m. 12th.) Washington, D. C. After sending the Sixth Corps and one division of cavalry here, 1 thiiik Sheridan should keep up as advanced a l)osition as possible toward the Virginia Central road, and be prel)are(1 with snpplies to advance on to that road at Gordonsville and Charlottesville at any time the enemy weakens himself sufficiently to admit of it. The cutting of that road and the canal would be of vast importance to us. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CEDAR CREEK, VA October Ii, 18647 p. in. (Received 12th.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: I have seen no signs of the enemy since the brilliant efigaoement of the 9th instant. It was a square cavalry fight, iu which the enemy was routed beyond my power to describe. He lost everything carried on wheels except one piece of artillery, and when last seen it was p assiii g over Rudes Hill, near New Market, on the keen run, twenty-six miles from the battle-field, to which point the pursuit was kept up The ba tterynteu and horses, & c., ~vere captured. The horses were all in good condition, but were all exchanged by our own cavalrymen for their broken-down animals. I have given you but a faint idea of the cleaning out of the stock, foi~age, wheat, provisions, & c., in the Valley. Th casualties of the 9th will not exceed sixty men. The 100 men of the Eighth Ohio, dispersed while guarding the bridge over the North Shenandoah, have come in, except the officers. Lieutenant-Colonel rl~olle5 my chief quarthrmaster, and Asst. Stir Emil Ohlemischlager, medical inspector on my staff, were both mortally wounded by guer- rillas to-day, on their way to join me from Wi chester; they were alnbus(aded. Three men were killed and five wounded out of an escort of twenty-four. The reftigees from Earlys army, cavalry and infantry, are organi~in~ guerrilla parties, and are becoming very formidable an Page 340 340 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. are annoying me very much. I know of no way to exterminate them except to burn out the whole country and let the people ~o North or South. If I attempt to capture them by sending out parties, they escape to the mountains on fleet horses. Colonel Powell, commanding cavalry division, on the 5th instant, cut down the railroad bridge over the liapidan and threw it into the river. P. II. SHERiDAN, iVijajor- General. WAu I)EPARTMENT, October 11, 18(144.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point, Va.: Scouts from Falmouth this morning report following: J~art of the troops lately sent to Early have returned to Richmond. The rel)els are moving supplies from Gordonsville to Hanover Junction. Railroad bridge over North Anna is not yet repaired. and freight and passengers have to be transferred at that place. They bring no other information. GEG. K. LEET, Assistant A~jntant- General. CEDAR CREEK, VA., October 11, 18(148 p. rn. (Received 2 p. m. 12th.) Major-General TIALLECK, Chief of & aff: I telegraphed you to send transportation to Front Royal for the Sixth Army Corps. This morning I received dispatch from General Grant, of the 9th instant, and will hold on to the Sixth Corps for a day or two, to watch the developments. The enemy has not shown himself since the brilliant cavalry victory of the 9th. My impression is that the enemy has made no advance this way, except by cavalry, which was entirely routed. I visited Front Royal yesterday. I think it quickest and most to the interests of the Sixth Corps to march through Ashbys Gap to Alexandria. To transport the corps will break up its organization, and the shipument of artillery, horses, trains, and officers traps will involve so much trouble and delay, that no time will be gaimmed. All duly considered, I wonld advise the march. The men are mu splendid trim. I wonld also advise th~ t the repairs on the Manassas railroad be stopped, and the disposal of the guard as you may think best. My main object in going to Front Royal yester(lay was to start Colonel Powell, commanding cavalry division, through Chester Gap, Sperry- ville, Madison Court-ilonse, and thence on to Charlottesville arid Gor- don sville. All the enemys cavalry were in the engagement of the 9th, and so broken up that Coloimel Powell may mnake a ten-strike. At all events, it will spread consternation, and may force everything out of the Valley and onto the railroad. if I do miot have to send a djvisiomi of cavalry to Petersburg, I probably can keep time enemy running from the Valley to the railroad and from the railroad to the Valley. P. II. SiiERil)AN, Major- General Page 341 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 341 CEDAR CREEK, XTA., October ii, 18649 p. m. (Received i 30 p. m. 12th.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The report of the raid, which reached me from West Virginia a few days ago, I did not, on consultation with Crook, deem formidable. It is possible that in a short time, when the men of that section of the country who broke from Earlys army get rested, that they will organize robbing bands; but it appears to me that there is a sufficient force there to take care of them. P. II. SHERIDAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washiftgton, October 11, 1864. CAVALRY BUREAU: Some 200 or 300 dismounted cavalry now here will be immediately remotiiited and sent to General Angu r by rail, to guard railroad aIl(l rejoin General Sheridans command as opportunity may occur. II. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. Send copy to General Augurs headquarters in Washington. H. W. II. WASHINGTON, October 11, 186410.30 a. m. Major-General AUGUR, kectortown, Va.: General Sheridan telegraphed that the Sixth Corps would be at Front Royal last night. Please send a cavalry force through to coin- municate with him and ascertain whether the corps will come by Pied- mont or by Harpers Ferry; also, whether they will require provisions at Piedmont. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. WASHINGTON, October 11, 18646.35 p. m. Major-General AUGUR, Reetortown, Va.: Two or three hundred cavalry, belonging to General Sheridans army, will be sent to you. You caii retain them till you unite with Sheridan. Your plan of putting prominent citizens on trains is approved, and you will carry it into effect. They should be so confined as to render escape impossible, and yet be expose(l to the fire of the enemy. II. W. IJALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff Page 342 342 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. L~. IRECTORTOWN, October 11, 18647.10 p. m. (Received 7.16 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The trains of to-day have all arrived here safely; all but one have gone on to Piedmont. The telegraph is in operation to this place. The cavalry about White Plains have been skirmishing with guerrillas to-day. Have not yet received to-days report from the cavalry at the front. A cavalry command left this evening to communicate with Gen- eral Sheridan. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. RECTORTOWN, VA., October 11, 1864. (Received 6.50 p. nt) Colonel TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General: Send to General Slough sufficient of the Twelfth Veteran Reserve Corps, with De Russy, to replace the Second District (if Columbia, which I have ordered him on the line for a particular purpose to build stockades. Let Mrs. Augur know that you have heard from me. C. C. AUGUR, ]Jiliajor- General. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, October 11, 1864. Brigadier-General DE Russ~, Commanding Division: GENERAL: The majoi--generai commanding (lirects that you send the Twelfth Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps to report to Brigadier- Geii- eral Slough, military governor of Alexandria, without delay. Please report their departure. They will be gone only temporarily. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. II. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, Washington, P. C., October 11, 18648 p. m. (Received 8.20 P. in.) Brigadier-General SLOUGH, Military Governor, Alexandria, Va.: Colonel Gamble will send between 200 and 300 mounted men to report to you to-night. Please furnish the necessary transportation by rail, and send them to report to General Augur, at Rectortown, as soon as possible. Please report number and houm- of starting. C. IL RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. [OCTOBER 11, 1864.For Torberts congratulatory orders, see Part I, p. 437. Page 343 CHAP. LV.J COTiRESPONDENCE, ETO.UNION. 343 HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE MILITARY DIVIsION, October 11, 184 19 p. m. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs flu t yen send a reconnais- sance of one regiment up the pike to-morrow a. in. as hir as your cairip last night. Let the (:ommanding officer obtain all the inft)rlnation 1)05- sible, and whether or not the enemy have any organized body of cay- airy in that vicinity. General Custer will scn(l UJ) the Back road. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL, Jm, Assistant A (ljutan t- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October .11, 1864. Colonel EDWARDS, Commanding U. AS. Forces, Winehest Va COLONEL: The major-general commandino directs that you send with the Sixth Corps train, which will go out on the Front Royal road from Winchester, a guard of 800 mcii, to be txken from the Provisional Brio-ado too-ether 3,500 strong. sent up fiont Ikupers Fcrm-y. All men ~ 1 belonging to the Sixth Corps with this I lox 151011 ii Brig~ulc will be sent out with the Sixth Corps wagons to Fiont Ro~ al aIl(l other mcii Ironi the same troops to make the guard at 1 ast SOt) stron 8. nbc Pliar(1 thy the army trains, to be 800 or I ,O0() nun xxiii fls() be taken from the Provisional Brigade, reservino Colonel ( uiii( s brigade for a fature escoit. This train for the Sixth Corps xxiii b scat out fin-om Winches- icr in time to reach Front Royal before the lth instant. 1 am, very respectfully, your obedient seivant, C KINGSBURY, JR., A~smstant Adjutant-General. WASHINGToN, October 11, 186412.40 p. in. (oh. S. B. LAWRENCE, Baltimore lid.: Mosby has not crossed the Potomac, and pi-obably xviii not. Never- theless, General Tylers forces should remain in the tiei(l for the present. He should be left free to move as he m y (Iceln best agaiimst any guer- rillas he may hear of. IL W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chie/ of Staff. HDQRS. SECOND SEPARATE BRIG., FIGUTII An~1Y CORPS, D(Jenses of Baltimore. Fort MeHenry, liEd., October 11, 1864. Licut. Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant A dj n tan t- General, Hdqrs. ~TIid(1le Department Stu : I have time honor to report that the fbiloxx-ing is the (listribution of the troops for duty inm the Second Separate Ih-i8ade, Eighth Army Corps, this p. ni.: Fort MeHenry: Field, staff, and ba mind, 8econu V. S. Artiileryolfi- cers, 4; men. 91. Ninety-first Nexv York Vetei-an Vohunteersoflicers, 13; men, 901 Page 344 344 OPERATIONS XN N. VA., W. VA., Ml)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. Fort Federal Hill: Fifth Massachusetts Infantry, five companies officers, 7: 1 Fort nen, 192. Marshall: Ninety-first New York Veteran Volunteers, three companies. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. MORRIS, Breret Brigadier- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. THIRD SEPARATE BRIG., 8TH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, October 11, 18G4. Commanding officers of regiments, companies, and detachments of troops of this brigade serving in and near the city of Baltimore are enjoined to maintain, during the days of holding the approaching elec- ti on in Maryland, the strictest discipline and vigilance in their comm and. No passes or leaves of any kind will be granted to officers or enlisted men of the brigade, and commanding officers will be held strictly responsible for the presence of their nien at their respective stations. Commanding officers will see that their men are supplied with forty rounds of ball cartridges (and if not on hand, make immediate requisi- tions for the necessary amount) and ready at all times for instant service. Soldiers entitled to vote in Maryland will be sent, without arms, to the polls in charge of a commissioned or a reliable non coin- missioned officer, and, after voting, immediately return to their stations. The brigadier-general commanding urges upon every officer and soldier of the command the strictest attentiou to, and compliance with, the above instructions. By command of Brigadier-General Lockwood: 11. CLAYTON, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 240. Chambersbnrg, Pa., October ii, 18G4. 1. Company G, First Battalion, 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty in the Twelfth Congressional District of Pennsylvania, and will proceed witbout delay from Scranton to liar- risburg, Pa., and report to l3vt. Brig. Cen. Roy Stone, U. S. Volun- teers, at Camp Curtiii, Pa., for duty. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCHULTZE, Assistant Adjutant- General. Nnw YORK, October ii,18G-i. Hon. P. M. STANTON: I am going to West Point this evening to return to-morrow, leaving Major- General Peck at these headquarters. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General Page 345 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNTON. 345 OCTOBER 12, 1864. The following order* is suspended. E. M. STANTON, Secretary o/ War. [OCTOBER 12, 1864.For Stanton to Sheridan, telI(lering thanks, & c., see Part I, p. 62.] CITY POINT, October 12, IRGi12 m. (Received 4.30 p. in.) Major-General 1IALLECK, Chief of Staff: Please send my dispatch 6f yester(lay in relation to what Sheridan should do, to him. t U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- (lenerc 1. ~\XrASI11NGTON IX C., October 12, PGI12 rn. Major-General SHERIDAN, ftrasburq: General Grant wishes a position taken far enough south to serve as a base for future operations upon Gordonsyille and Charlottesville. It must be strongly fortified and provisioned. Some point in the vicinity of Manassas Gap would seem best suited for all purposes. Colonel Alexander, of the Engineers, will be sent to consult with you as soon as you connect with General Augur. II. W. IIALLECK, Major- General and Chief of AStaff. CEDAR CREEK, October 12, 1SYA19 p. m. (Received 14th.) j[Aeuten ant-General GRANT: I have directed the Sixth Corps to march to Alexandria, via Ashbys Gap, to commence the march to-morrow morning. It will take four and a half (lays. It is now at Front RoyaJ. I will request General Ilal- leek to have transportation ready for them through to 1~etersburg. From my best information Early did not follow me down the Valley with his infantry, but sent only half cavalry. I have already informed you of the handsome manner it was smashed iii). Jnfoiiuation received from Colonel Powell, at Sperryville, rel)orts Early or Longstreet, 1 (10 not yet know which, is in coInIllau(l, but think Early is, with the bulk of his force, at Craigs Creek, between Browns Gap and \Viiynesbor- ougli. I object to tIme opening of the railroad and an advance on the old Rapidan line on account of the waste of tioliting force to protect railroads and the additional waste of force, as some would have to be See tialleck to MeCallum, Octobcr 12, p. 348. tEor remainder of dispatch, relating to operations elsewhere, see vol. xxxix, Part III, p. 222 Page 346 346 OPKRATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CnAp. tv. left iu this valley. You see how many tr6ops might thus be rendered unavailable. I believe that concentration at vital points, and the destruction of subsistence resources, to be everytliinc; but do not let my views influence your better judgment. I believe that a rebel ad- vance down this valley will not take I)lace. I have not yet started the cavalry (livision; am waiting the results of Colonel Powells (livisioll, which I sent through Chester Gap toward Gordonsville. P. H. SLIEIRIDAN, Major- (Thu era 1. WASHINGTON, T). C., October 12, iSGI5 p. m. Major-General SHERIDAN, Strasb ury: The Sixth Corps should by all means march to Alexandria. We cai send supplies to meet them anywhere between here and Piedmont, on receiving notice. H. W. HALLECK, ]I/fajor4leneral and Chi~/ of ~ta if. CEDAR CREEK, VA., October 12, 1SG49.30 p. m. (Received 4 p. m. 13th.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of & atT: I have ordered the Sixth Corps (except one brigade now at Win- chester) to march to Alexandria to-morrow morning. They will get there iu tour an(l a half days. Have the kindness to have transporta~ tion ready to send them to City Point. I have ordered General Augur to concentrate all his force at Manassas Junction, or iI3iill Hun, until he hears from me. He could not complete the railroad to Front lioyal without additional forces from me, and to give him that force to do the work, and transport the troops by railroad to Alexandria, would require more time than to march across, via Ashbys Gap. P. II. SHERII)AN, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 53. 5 October 12, 1S& 4. 1. The battalion of the One hundred and eighty-fourth [New York] Volunteers now serving with Provisional Brigade is relieved from (lilty therewith, and will report to commanding general Sixth Army Corps. The battalion of Tenth New York Heavy Artillery is relieved from duty with the Sixth Army Corps, and will report to Lieutenant-Colonel Arden, commanding Provisional Brigade. * - - 5. Major Gibson, acting assistant iii spector-general, Second Cavalry Division, Department of West Virginia, is hereby om~(lere(l to report in persou to Brevet Major-General Torbert, chief of cavalry, without de- lay. * * * * * Page 347 CHAP. L~.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 347 7. Lient. 6-. II. ~ orth, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, acting ordnance officer, Second Cavalry Division, Department of West Vii- ginia, will report in person without delay to Brevet Major-General Toi- bert, chief of cavalry. * * -~ * * 9. The Sixth Corps, Major-General Wright commanding, will move to-morrow morning to Alexandria, via Ashbys Gap and the Aldie pike. On arriving at Alexandria, the commanding officer will report to Major-General Halleck for further orders. rffie provisional troops iiow attached to the Sixth Corps, nn(ler the command of Colonel Heine, will remain at Front Royal awaiting orders from these headquarters. The brigade of the Sixth Corps now at Winchester will be relieved by orders from these headquarters, and will join its corps at Alexandria. The wagons of the Sixtif Corps are at Winchester, and will be ordered by General Wright to join the corps at the crossing of the Shenandoah at Ashbys Gap to-morrow. Should there be other wagons of the corps on the road to Martinsburg, they will join the brigade at Winchester, and will join the corps at Alexandria, via Harpers Ferry. The ntmost celerity will be required in marching the Sixth Corps to Alexandria by the above designated route. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, Jm, Assistant Adjutant- General. RECTORTOWN, VA., October 12, 1864. (Received 12.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief (~/ Staff: I have received your dispatch concerning the placing of prominent secessionists on the trains.* When troous first arrived here, Mosby gave out that all the men were to be arrested and sent to Washington. There are, in consequence, but a few old and infirm men left here. I think in a few days the others will return, and I can then make the necessary arrests. C. C. AUGUR, Ma or- General. RECTORTOWN, VA., October 12, 18649.30 p. rn. (Received 9.35 p. in.) Major:Gcneral HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Nothing yet heard from Sixth Corps. The first train from Alexan- dria to-day has arrived here safely; the other trains have riot yet arrived; they are supposed to be at White Plains. Nothing of un- portance to-day. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. See Halieck to Augur, 11th, 635 p. to., p. 341 Page 348 348 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHiP. LV. WAsIuNGTo1~, D. C., October 12, 18G4. Brevet Brigadier-General INICCALLUM, Washington, D. (1.: GENERAL: The Secretary of War directs that, in retaliation for the murderous acts ~f guerrilla bands, composed of and assisted by the inhabitants along the Manassas Gap Railroad, and as a measure necessary to keep that road in running order, you proceed to destroy every house within five miles of the road which is not required for our own purposes, or which is not occupied by persons known to be friendly. All males suspected of belonging to, or assisting, the robber bands of Mosby, will be sent, under guard, to the provost-niarshal at Washington, to be confined in the Old Capitol prison. The women and children will be assisted in going north or south, as they may select. They will be permitted to carry with theni their personal property and such provisions as they may require for their own use. Forage, am- mals, and grain will be taken for the use of the United States. All timber and brush within musketry fire of the road will be cut down and destroyed. Printed notices will be circulated and posted that any citizens found within five miles of the road hereafter will be con- sidered as robbers and bushwhackers, and be treated aecor(lingly. Copies of these instructions will be sent to General Augur and Gen- eral Sheridan, with orders to give you all possible military aid for the accomplishment of these objects. The inhabitants of the country will be notified that for any further hostilities committed on this road or its employ~s an additional strip of ten miles on each side will be laid waste, and that section of country entirely depopulated. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, TI. W. HALLECK, Major- General a~td Chief of & aff. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 12, IRGI. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Assistant A ~jut ant- General: The following dispatch received this evening: FAIRFAX STATION Oclober 12 1864. The guerrillas attacked three men near wood-pile, killing one and wounding the others; one fatally. Will write partienlars. C. BARNES, Colonel, Commendiaq. W. lvi. GWYNNE. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, No. 215. October 12, 18G4. * - *- * * 7. In accordance with instructions from headquarters Middle Mili- tary Division, the Provisional Brigade of time Third Division of this corps, under command of Colonel hleine, is relieved froln this command, and will remain at Front Royal npoii the movement of this corps to-morrow and await instructions trorn the headquarters last named. The cavalry under Colonel Dotze will report to Colonel Heine Page 349 CHAP. LV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 S. Pursuant to further instructions from the same headquarters, the battalion Tenth New York Heavy Artillery is relieved from ditty with this command, and will report to Lieutenant-Colonel Arden, command- ing Provisional Brigade. By command of Major-General Wright: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assista kit A djatant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. The corps will move at 6 a. in. to-morrow, via Ashbys Gal) and the Aldie pike, starting on the pike from this point to Winchester, and will encantp for the night at a point to be indicated to-morrow. Order of march: first, Second l)ivision, with oue battery; second, Third Divis- ion; third, artillery; fourth, trains; fifth, First Division, with one battery. The ambulances will accompany the divisions to which they belong. The troops will march on the side of the road, giving, when possible, the road to the artillery and trains, and division commanders will so regulate the march of their brigades as to cover the artillery and trains. One brigade of the First Division will be kept iii rear of the trains. The brigade of the Second Division, on the other side of the river, with the regiment at Front Royal, will be withdrawn by General Getty at 4 a. in., in time to join their division for the march. The pickets will be withdrawn by Colonel Mackenzie, corps officer of the day, in time to join their commands. The battalion of One hundred and eighty-fourth New York Volunteers, now with the trains, will report to Brigadier- General Ricketts for assignment. The batteries for the Second and First Divisions will be assigned by thc chief of artillery. The rations now on hand utust last the command on its march to Alexandria. By command of Major-General Wright: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjntant- General. HE NDQUARTERS MIDDLE MiLITARY l)ivisi ON, October 12, 1864. Brevet Maj or-General EMORY, Coin in an cling Nineteenth Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you detail one regiment to escort the trains to Winchester to-morrow morning. The commanding officer is directed to report here at once fbr orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, Jn., Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1~6I. Lent. CoT. C. KINGSBURY, Jr., Assistant Adjatant- General, Jiiddle Milita.i-y l)ivision: COLONEL: I have the honor to request that the Thirteenth Maine and the Fifteenth Maine Volunteers, of the Second Brigade, Firs Page 350 350 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. 1)ivision, Nineteenth Army Corps, lately returned from veteran fur- longli, may be ordered to join their division. I am informed that they have been detained at Martinsbnrg. 1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, W. H. EMORY, Brevet Major- General, Commanding. IIEADQUARTELIS 1)ETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY Conps, Near Cedar Creek, Va., October 12, 1861. Brig. Gen. J. D. FESSENDEN, U. S. Volunteers: GENERAL: By direction of the brevet major-general couhlnan(ling, I have the honor to infomin you that the order assigning you to the Third Brigade of the First Division has been revoked. The assignment was unide under the impression that you were General Francis Fessenden, to whom the brigade properly belongs. The general commanding directs, therefore, that you report in person at these headquarters at your earliest convenience, for assignment to the Second Brigade of the First Division. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 12, 1864. Col. N. A. M. DUDLEY, Thirtieth Massachusetts, & e.: COLONEL: By direction of the general commanding, I liave the honor to iiiformn you that the order assigning Brigadier-General Fessenden to the Third Brigade, First Division, has been recalled, and you will assume command of it, as directed. The general commanding desires inc to say that it was not his intention to relieve you of command, as the order relieving you directed you to take command of the Second Brigade, First Division, in General MeMillans al)sence. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MiLiTARY 1)1VISLON, October 12, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel ARDEN, Comma n ding Provisional Brigade: The major-general commanding directs that you report with your command to Colonel ileine, at Front Royal. You will start early to-morrow morning. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant C. KINGSBURY, JR., Lie a len ant- Colonel and Assistant Aajutant- General Page 351 CHAP. LY.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 351 IIARPERs FERRY, October 12, 1864. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary oJ War: General Sheridans headquarters were yesterday one mile this side of Cedar Creek. Lieutenant-Colonel Tolles, chief quartermaster, aild Doctor Ohiensehiager, with a small escort, twenty-five men, going to front, were attacked yesterday near Middletown by guerrillas. Colonel Tlolles and l)octor Ohlenschhiger were both lilortally wounded, and four men killed and six wounded. Nothing of military operations. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBU1IG, October 12, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Captain Alexander, assistant q ~artermaster, Genera] Torberts staff, just from the front, reports that Lieutenant-Colonel Tolles, chief quar- termaster, and Doctor Ohien schlager, with an escort of twenty-five men, who started from Winchester for the front yesterday nioruitig, were attacked by a party of guerrillas, variously reported from 50 to 100. three miles this si(le of iNliddletown. Colonel Tolles and Doctor Ohlenschlager were both mortally wounded, the former in the head and the latter iii thc bowels; last report no hopes of their recovery. Four of the escort were killed and five or six were wounded. Lieutenant- Colonel Tolles and Doctor Ohlenschlager were taken to General Sheri- daims headquarters, which are now located one mile this side of Cedar Creek. WM. II. SEWARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQ VAR TERS MIDDLE MILITARY I )mvmsioN, sear Stra8burg, Va., October 12 1561. Col. 0. EDNX ARDS ( oinmand~uq U. S. Forces. Winchester, Va.: COLONEL I have to report to you the safe arrival of tIme ai my trains at this point The mm~jor-general commanding directs that all men with the Prox isbn il l3rigade belonging to the Sixth Corps be held at Win- chester. ~ubjett to the orders of Major-General Wright, comma ding Sixth Amnm~ tomp to be sent with teams going to that corps. All men with this Provisional Brigade belonging to the Nineteenth Corps and Army of West Virginia will be sent at once to this point, to be dis- tributed among the various commands to which they belong. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant A djntant- General. HEADQUARTERS, (Jamberland, October 12, 1864. Capt. P. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: 1 have the honor to reliort, fbr the information of the gen- eral commanding the department, that reliable informuation has been received at these headquarters this a. ni. of General Rosser having sent about 500 cavalry to ~Ioor~field,in Hardy County, W. Va., for th Page 352 352 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. purpose of destroying the organization of State troops on the North Fork, in Pendleton County, called by the rebels Swamp i)ragous. I have sent out from New Creek a force to assist the Swamps. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. KELLEY, Brevet ]JJajor- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISiON, October 12, 1861. Brigadier-General DUFFI~, Corn in a nding Cavalry, Cam berland, Aid.: The major-general (olilmanding directs that you cause to be moinited at once Colonel Tibbits regiment, aiid order it to Martinsburg, and from there report to chief of cavalry of this army. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBUIRY, JR., Assista at A dpi taut- General. CUMBERLAND, October 12, 1864. Captain SHEETS, New Creek: It is reported that a rebel force of cavalry has gone up the North Fork after the Swamps. Send a scout of 100 men mounted, with five days rations, to their support. Direct the officer to go up the same way Captain Kelley was directed to go, and to communicate with huin, it I)ossible. B. F. KELLEY, Brevet Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Charleston, IV. Va., October 12, 1861. Licut. Col. JOHN J. POESLEY, Commanding, Loup Creek, TV. Va. Echols has departed. Burbridge at the Salt-Works, and he may appear in our front. HOW far out have you had scouts or heard from very recently~ Keep time Lewisburg and Fayetteville roads well scouted as far out as you can. See that your mcii are all armed are constantly sui)plied with animnunition, and ready fbi instant work. Send an intelligent officer out and see where the road between you and Fayetteville can be best blockaded or torn up. Have the officer report to mc at once how long it would take an(l where he (lecides the best point is. Indiana and Ohio went largely Union yesterday. JOHN H. OLEY, Colonel, Commandinq. WAR 1)VPARTMENT Washington, October 12, 18618.15 p. rn. General TYLER: Please explain what you and your troops are (loing, that you do not keep the rebels out of Poolesville. More activity on your part is expected. EDWIN M. STANTON, ecretary of War Page 353 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 353 ItELAY HOUSE, MD Octobe Hon. E. M. STANTON, ., ~r 12, 18649 p. rn. Secretary of War: Your (lispatch is received. In reply, have to say that in carrying out the order of General Halleck all of my available force was concentrated at Rockville to cover YXashingtou Branch. The order was imperative. I was only relieved from it last evening, and imnmediiteb (lispatched couriers to have the troops cover our entire river front aoain. The order could not reach them before 2 oclock this mno~ mug Another order followed to scour the country and arrest e~ cry man that could not satisfactorily account for himself. That ordei is b( lug carried out, as far as I have troops to do it. Nearly one-halt of my ( ivairy are without horses; so far, I have been unsuccessful iu my efforts to obtain them. Give me two meu to the mile, with a reasonabli iclief and I will answer with my head that you shall be satisfied with my activity. I have not a man to the mile on the river-bank that I am trying to guard. Have done the best we could with what we had, supposing it was all that could be given us. We will increase our efforts, an(l certainly will accomplish much more if horses are given me to mount my cavalry. I)ismounted men are of little service in hunting down guerrillas iu that country~ where two-thirds ot the people are their bosom friends. I will send you detailed report by mail. E. B. TYLER, Brigadier- General. RELAY HOUSE, October 12. 1864. Lieutenant Colonel LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant-General: Rebels reported in Poolesville last night robbing stores. My cavalry nrc after them. Are we to have horses for our dismounted men 5OOfl~ It is all important at this time. B. B. TYLER, Brigadier- General. RELAY hOUSE October 12, 1864. Colonel LAWRENCE: The number of rebels at Poolesville not reported. I received the dispatch from General Halleck and gave orders accor(lingly. Copies will be forwarded you. B. B. TYLER, Brigadier- General. RELAY HOUSE, October 12, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Captain Ferguson dispatches me that in a chase last night his men shot two guerrillas near Ridgeville, and that he has captured several deserters. R WYQL XUIIq PT I Page 354 354 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~(BAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEJIANNA, Chambersbnrg, Pa., October 12, 1864. Maj. Gem U. XV. HALLECK, U. S. Army, Chief of Stajj War Department, Washington, I). C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that ill from ten to thirty days the term of service of the 100-days cavalry of this department will exuire. It is now used almost entirely to enforce the draftthat is, to })rotect enrolling officers, arrest deserters, or run them out of the country, compelling them to leave their homes and live in the mountains & c Cavalry is the only arm which is of any value for this duty, and in order to sustain the laws of the United States, as well as convince the l)cople that the Government will enforce its just demands, I nmst replace those going out of service. Generally, the draft is resisted only in the mountainous and wooded districts, which are sparsely settled, where fifty cavalrymen can do the service of 1,000 infantry. Men no (lonbt could be. raised in the State for this special service. I think, how-ever, it would be better could an efticievit dismounted battalion of from 400 to 500 men be ordered here. They could be mounte(l and put to good use. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IX N. COUCh, Major- General, Commanding Department. WASHINGTON, 1). C., October 13, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: The substance of your dispatch of the 11th was immediately sent to General Sheridan. Numerous guerrilla parties in his rear frequently interrupt communication with hint. The condition of the Manassas Gap Railroad is much worse than represented by the engineers. Now that elections are over in Ohio and indiana, we will be able to send several additional regiments to Nashville for Sherman. Matters in Missouri seem to be in a muddle. Nothingyetheardof Steeleandj.J. Reynolds. I have directed Schofield to send to Thomas everything that can be spared from Kentucky. H. W. HALLECK, - Major- General and Chief of Staff. CITY POINT, VA., October 13, 186410.30 a. m. (Received 1.40 p. in.) Bvt. Maj. Gen. M. C. MEIo-s, Quartermaster- General: Lieutenant-General Grant directs me to say that you may order a portion of the railroad construction force to return here at once. Sher- idan does not think it expedient to have more labor put on the Manas- sas Gap Railroad. If there be no further repairs necessary on the Orange amid Alexandria, 1 see ito reason why most of the mechanics and trackmen of the m-ailroad party shall not return here, where their services ni-c required in erecting the hospitals and extending the City Point road around to the vicinity of the South Side road. These works are important. I trust Major Wentz has received orders relative to putting up the hospital buildings. RUFUS INUALLS, Brigadier- General and Chief Quartermaster Page 355 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 355 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., October 13 1864. Major-General SHERIDAN: (Care of General Augur.) It you can come here a consultation on several points is extremely desirable. I propose to visit General Grant, and would like to see you first. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. Copy to General Augur. who will communicate to General Sheridan if he tomes over to iRectortown. CEDAR CREEK, VA., October 13, 18649.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 9.20 a. in. 14th.) Chief of Statj: Your telegram dated 12 m. October 12 received. if aiiy advance is to be made on Gordonsville and Charlotte~ville troops away from my command, and ~ ~ it is not best to send have therefore countermanded the order (lirecting the Sixth Corps to march to Alexandria. I will go over and see General Augur and Colonel Alexander, and communicate with you from Rectortown. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., October 13, 18645 p. m Major-General SHERIDAN, (Via Rectortown and Harpers Ferry.) Cedar Creek: The Secretary of War wishes you to come to Washington for consul- tation, if you can safely leave your command. Gener~l Grants wishes about holding a position up the Valley as a basis against Gordonsville & c., and time difficulty of wagoning 5U1)l)lies in the winter m your views about the Manassas Gap road. , ay change H. W. hA LLECK, Major- General and Chief of kStaft. SPECIAL OlmnuRs, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, No. 54. October 13, 1864. I. Brigadier-General Duffi~ is imereby relieved from duty at Cuinber- land, Md., and will proceed to Martinsburg, W. Va., and gather to- gether all officers and men belonging to Second Cavalry Division, I)epartment of West Virginia, and then l)roceed to Hagerstown, Ad., establishing a remount camp there. * * * * * * * 3. During the illness of Licutemmant-Colonel Tolles, Lienteimant-Col- ommel Page, Cavalry Corps, will l)erft)rm the duties of chief quarter- master of this army. * * * * * By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBURY, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 356 356 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. IRECTORTOWN, YA., October 13, 1864. (Received 2.20 p. ni.) Maj. Gen. II. W IFIALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have just received the following from General P. II. Sheridan. Shall I make the movement directed by him at once~ CEDAR CREEK, VA., October 12, 18G4. Major-General AUGUR, Rectortown, Va. Your note to General Wright, commanding the Sixth Army Corps, received. I will not want to use the Manassas Gap Railroad. You can return with what troops von have on the road to Manassas Junction, or to the crossiu~ of Bull Run, whichever you deem best. I want you to hold the troops there until you hear again from me. The Sixth Corps will move from Front Royal to Alexandria, via Ashbys Gap, to- morrow morning. There is a division of my cavalry now at Sperryville. lt has prohahly gone to Warrenton, where it is said that MeCanslands cavalry marched yesterday, intending to return to Culpeper last night. Early could not follow me down the Valley, hut sent iRosser with all his cavalry, and l3iosser was utterly routed, losing eleven pieces of artillery, all his wagons, caissons, & e., his own headquarters wagons, with those of Lomax, Wickham, and Colonel Mnnford, commanding Ros- sers hrigade. The rout was complete. I will move another division of cavalry through Chester Gap to-morrow. I did not know that you were at Rectortown, or I would have gone over to see you when I was at Front Royal yesterday. It is said that Early moved a division of infantry to Culpeper, which probably may he true, but I doubt it. I think he is at Gordonsville or Charlottesville by this time. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. C. C. AUGUR, ]ilajor- General. RECTORTO WN~ October 13, 1861. (Received 8.40 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have just received the following dispatch from Geiicral Sheridan. I shall therefore remain here unless otherwise ordered: CEDAR CREEK, October 12, iSGI. GENERAL: News received from Washington since I wrote yon last night make it necessary for you to hold on to your present position at Rectortown. I will try and get over and see you either this evening or to-morrow. P. H. SI-LLRII)AN, Major- General. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. WASHiNGTON, I). C., October 13, 18645 p. rn. Major-General AUGUR, Rectortown: Dispatches sent to General Sheridan may channe his views in regard to abandoning the railroad. Send the rolling-stock back to a safe posi- tion, 1)lace your troops in favorable places for defending road, and wait f~r further orders. ~ ~. IJALLECK, Major- General and Chi~/~ of Sta Page 357 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE. ETCUNION. 357 RECTORTOWN, VA., October 13, 1864. Major-General HALLECK, Received 9.30 i~. in.) Chie/ of Staff: Since General Sheridans last dispatch T have received yours. Shall I remain here, as directed by Sheridan, or return, as directed by you, probably before you received his last~ C. C. AUGUR. lit ajor- General. RECTORTOWN, VA., October 13, 18649.35 p. m. Major-CTeneral HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have just received the following dispatch from the cavalry at the front: HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Piedmont, Va., October 13, 18647.15 p. m. GENERAL: I have the honor to state that one of Mosbys men just captured reports that a detachment of infantry, cavalry, and artillery Iro ni the Valley forces of the rebels a(lvanced yesterday morning to within about eight miles of this place, near Thxevs farm, at the lower end of the Cobbler Mountain, southwesterly from Salem, with the intention of interfering with the further c~onstruction of the line of rail- road. This force fell back, as is reported, in consequence of Federal cavalry from the Valley appearing in their rear. This Federal ~)arty (irove off some cattle, l)urned Chancellors mill, on the Ilappahannock, but, as it is reported, were driven hack to the Valley. All (inlet here at present. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servauut, H. S. GANSEVOORT, Colonel, Commanding. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT Wa~hington, October 13, 186410 P. In. Major-General AUGUR, Rectortown: You will remain where you are until General Sheridan meets you, and tlieii act aecording to his instructions. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary c~/ War. ORDERS.] WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, October 13, 1864. The military govertior of tile District of Columbia is placed iu coin- mand of the guards of the President, both cavalry and infantry, at the Soldiers home. The commanding officers of the detachments colupos- mo- those guards will report to Colonel Wisewell forthwith for their instructions. By order ot the Secretary ot War: JAS. A. IIARI)IE, Colonel and Inspector- General U. S. Army Page 358 358 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. RECToRTOWN, October 13, 1864. (Received 11.30 p. in.) Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff: Is not one company sufficient for the aqueduct at Great Falls? If General Halleck thinks so send the other three companies to report to General Slough for train guards. The force at Great Falls was desig- nated by General ilalleck, and 1 do not like to diminish it without his sanction. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, October 13, 1864. (Received 10.30 p. m.~ Lieutenant.Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of .S~taff: COLONEL: The patrols report all quiet. We have information that there are about. 100 guerrillas lurking in the pines near Wolf Run Shoals, on the Prince William County side. It was no doubt s6me of this gang that attacked the o-uard at Burkes Station yesterday. W. W. WINSiIP Captain and Acting Prorost-JIIarshal- General. MANASSAS .IITNCTION, October 13, 1864. (Received 8.10 p. in.) D. C. MOCALLUM: Thirteen hundred and twenty-five men have reported, and I have got them as far as this place. B. L. WENTZ. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH An ~ CORPS, October 13, 1864. The corps will move at 6 a. m. to-morrow to its recent camp near Front Royal. Order of march: tirst, Third l)ivision, with one bat- tery; second, First Division; third, Second l)ivision, with one battery. The leading division will march in two columns, one on each Si(le of the pike. The other divisions will march on the left of the pike in one col- unin, covering the trains as far as possible. The artillery, trains, and ambulances will move on the pike imi the order given, and the leading battery will keep up with the head of the influitry column. Brigadier- General Getty will 50 dispose his troops as to guar(l such part of the trains as are not covered by the other divisions. The chief of artillery will design8te the batteries to march with the divisions. The pickets will be withdrawn, nnder direction of the corps officer of the (lay, in time to join th cii resl)ective comm an(is. By command of Major-General Wright: C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 359 CHAP. LV.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 359 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October 13, 1& 6j. Brevet Major-General EMORY, Corn man ding Nineteenth A rm~~ Corps GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you have everything in readiness to encounter the enemy at 4 oclock to-morrow morning. Very respectfully, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lie aten a at- Colonel an (1 Cli ie/ o/ Sta fll (Same to Major-General Crook.) HEADQUARTER S DEI~AR TMENT OF WEST VIRGlNJA, October 13, 1861. Col. J. THOBURN, Commanding First I /~ntry ])irtstoa COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you strengthen your picket-line across Cedar Creek with 20() men, and have it advam~ed about one-quarter of a mile. and connect with the pickets of the Niae- teenth Corps on your right already established. The movement will be made at once under the superinten(lence of your division officer of the day. I am, colonel, & c., WM. McKINLEY, JR., Captain and Acting A ss istant Adjntan t- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Near Cedar Creek, Va., October 1 ~ 1864. Col. R. B. HAYES, Conidg. Second Tn+ ntry I)iris ion, Dept. 0/ hlest Virginia COLONEL: It has been reported to the commanding general that there is skirmishing goinG on at the Shenandoah River near the base of the mountain, ~upposed to be the party from your command sent to guard signal station on the mountain. He directs that you send one brigade to ascertain what is there, and to drive the enemy away; also that a ~)a1ty be sent to the top of the mountain, and if necessary to do this, that you re-enforce the party of 100 sent this morning. I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant, P. G. BIER, Assistant A (~jUtan t- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY MIDI )LE MILITARY l)lVISION, October 13, 18(411 p. m. General MERRITT: GENERAL: III pursuance of orders from headquarters Middle Mili- tary I) ivision, you will have your comnuind ready to encounter tim enemy at 4 a. in., instca(I of at davliQht, a~ per lweviolls order from these headquarters. By coininand of Brevet Major-General Torbert: WM. RUSSELL, JR., A ssist an t A d juta nt- General Page 360 360 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Ml)., AND PA. [(HAP. LV. MAnTJxsnu1~G, (~)ctober II, 1864. (Received 9 p. in.) Col. J. A. HAnDlE: Captain Knsserow is the officer who caused the recruits of the State of Massachusetts to desert, and knowing them to be deserters, refused to return them to their command, concealed them, and attempted to have them fraudulently mnstered into his own battery. Considering the offense of the gravest known to military law, I placed him iii the custody of the provost-marshal for safe-keeping. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Martinsbwrg, Va., October 13, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Corn mending Military Di~triet of Jlarjpers Perry: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that this post is entirely with- ont cavalry, and, in my opinion, it is highly important that there should be a force of at least 800 or 1,000 men stationed here. This being the base of General Sheridans supplies, there is nec~ssarily a large accumu- lation of subsistence and stores of all kinds here, which should be properly protected. The nature of the surrounding country makes cavalry picket almost indispensable to guard against surprise. There are constantly hem o forwarded to the army large trains which require more or less cavalry escort. Dispatches of importance must also nec- essarily be delayed at times for the want of mounted escorts to carry them through in safety. In addhition to all this, a good patrol, or sev- eral scouting parties, would in a short time put an end to the annoy- ance of guerrillas between here and Winchester. I am, general, very respectfnlly, yonr obedient servant, W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. HEADQITARTERS U. S. FORCES, ]Jifartinsburg, Va., October 18, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Comma n (ling District of Harpers Ferry: GENERAL: Four scouts have just arrived, and report that they were attacked, about eio-ht miles this side of Winchester, by a party o~ about lifty guerrillas this afternoon. They all seem to be positive that they were attacked by Mosbys men, and that Mosby himself, with one toot bound up, was with them. An escort just arrived with dispatches for the telegraph operator here reports that a sergeant and small party of men sent out with the same dispatches were attacked at the same place and driven back to Winchester. I ama, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. II. SEWARD, Brigadier- General Page 361 CHAP, LV.] CORRESPONDENCE. ETC.UNION. 361 HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DiVISiON, October 13, 1864. Colonel HEINE. Corn mending Provision eli Brigade, near Pro nt Royal: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that you report to these headquarters at daylight to-morrow morning witi your command. Non will march via Middletown. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KINGSBURY, ~JR., Lien ten a itt- Colonel and Assistant A dint ant- General. PARKERSBURG, October 13, 1864. Brevet Major-General CROOK, Corn in a ii ding Department of West Virginia: GENERAL: Some time since Ii recommended to your predecessor in command of the department the consolidation of the Fifth and Sixth Regiments of West Yirginia Cavalry. These regiments being very much reduced in numbers, it seems to me that the a(lvantages arising from such consolidation are too obvious to require specification. In the event of your approval of my suggestion, I would be pleased if Col- omiel Latham. ot the Fifth could be retained in command, as in him the consoli(lated regiment woul(l certainly have an al)le all(l experienced officer, who has already done honor to the cause and credit to himself. In connection with the above, you must pardon me for calling your attention to the defenseless condition of the eastern border of the State. Recently the rebels made a raid into the counties of Lewis, Upshur, & c., and l)lulIderetl the people to a very large amount in value of horses. cattle, store goods, & c., and unless something is done for the protection of tle section named, I fear that many of our loyal pcol)le will leave the State not to return a~ain. It will not require a large force to give the necessary protection. Colonel Lathamn is very well acquainted with the exposed border of the State an(l if lie should be retained in command of the consolida ted regiment herein menti On ed, and allowed to make his headquarters at Beverly, or in that region, I feel assured that we would not be troubled with raids, such as that recently experienced, and the people would regard themselves as secure, and would go to work contentedly at their usual avocations, and few, if any, complaints would hereafter be had froni them. May I Dot trust that you will concur with nie in the snogestions I have made in regard to the consolidation nuder Colonel Latham and the stationiuig the troops on the border of the State for the l)rotection of our I)eople. I shall be pleased to hear from you on this subject. Very respectfully, A. 1. BOREMAN, Govern or. P. S.I am at Parkersburg for a short time will return to Wheeling during the coming week. A. 1. B. Two MILES WEST OF MARTJNSIIIJRG, October 13, 1864. General KELLEY: We have arrived this far safe. Found the wires broken in many places. Railroad, with exception of culvert burnt about quarter of Page 362 3~32 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. mile east of North Mountain, all right. From this to Martin sburg the poles and wires all destroyed; railroad also badly destroyed. We will make Martinsburg by noon to-morrow, and will report there. All quiet, and cau hear of no rebels being near. C. J. HARRISON, Captain. BALTIMORE ,M~ .,Oetober I 3,iRGI. Maj. Gen. LEW. WALLACE, Crauftrdsville, lad.: The election has passed quietly thus far, and matters elsewhere are quiet and all right. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant A~jntant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, )~ HDQES. MIDDLE I)EPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 93. Baltimore, October 13, 18G4. Asst. Surg. Charles H. Greenleaf, U. S. Army, is hereby announce(l as assistant to the medical director, Middle Department, Eighth Army Corps, and authorized to conduct, under his direction, the business relating to his office within the limits of this department. The signa- ture of Assistant Surgeon Greenleaf will be recognized an(l respected accordingly. By command of Ma~ior-General \Vallace: SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. MIDDLE i)EPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 236. Baltimore, October 13, 1 f-~G4. * 3. The following named regiments U. S. Colored Troops, viz, One hundred and seventh, One hundred and Ihurteentli, One humired and fifteenth, One hundred and sixteenth, One hundred and seventeenth, and One hundred and eig-hteenth, upon arrival in this city-, will report to Brig. Gen. I-I. H. Lockwood, conim ndin~ Third Separate l3riga(le, who is hereby directed to provide them at once with the necessary ~up~ 11i ~s and equipments for immediate field service, and toi ward them without delay to City Point, Va., to report to Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler, in obedience to orders of Brig. Gen. L. Thomas, Adjutant-General V. S. Army. The quartermasters department will furnish the imecessary traii sportatibn. * * * * * By command of Major-General Wallace: SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, A ssista a t A (1/11 taut- General Page 363 CHAP LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 363 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, October 13, 1864. Brig. G en. E. D. TOWNSEND, ANsi~ta at A cija taut- General, Wa shingtou: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that for some time I have been desirous of visiting Massachusetts on important private business, and think that at present my absence would not be prejudicial to the inter- ests of the cause. I therefore request a leave of seven days. Should it be granted, please telegraph me, and oblige, Very respectfully, D. N. COUCH, Major- General, Comm c(nding N epartrnent. [First indorsemerit.] WAR DEPARTMENT. ADJUTANT- GENERALS OFFICE, October 15, 1864. Respectfully submitted to Major-General Halleck, Chief of Staff, U. S. Arniy. H. WILLIAMS, A~si~tant Adjutant- General. [Second mdorsement. OCToEER 17, 1864. Approved. H. W. H., YEa jor- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, October 14, 1(SGilO.& O a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, City Point: Sheridan expected to be at Hectortown to-day. I requested him to come here immediately by rail, to confer with him in respect to Mis- souri, and will let you know when he arrives. I expect to make you a visit to-morrow with General Meigs, to confer on the matters in hand, and am only awaiting Sheridans arrival. EI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary (~/ War. CITY PoINT, October 14, 186412.30 p. rn. Major-General SHERIDAN, Cedar Greek , Ia. What I want is for you to threaten the Virgiiii a Central Railroad and canal in the manimer your jadginent tells you is best, holding your- self ready to advance if the enemy draw off their forces. If you make the enemy hold a force equal to your own for the protection of those tlioronghtares, it will accomplish nearly as much as their (lestruction. lf you cannot do this, then the next best thing to do is to semi here all the force von can. I deem a good cavalry force necessary foi- yonr of ft~iisive as well as defensive operations. You need not, therefore, 5e11(I here more than one division of cavalry. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. Page 364 364 OPERAT1ON~ IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. SPECIAL ORDERS, UDQRS. MIDDLE MILiTARY DIVISION, No. 55. October 14, 1864. * * * * * * 3. Capt. 0. H. Howard, U. S. Signal Corps, having rel)orte(1 to these headquarters in compliance with orders from War l)epartment, is an- nounced as chief ~ional officer of this army, aiid will be obeyed and respecte(l accordingly. * * * * * * By comiiiand ot Major-(~weneral Sheridan C. KINGSBT2 WY, JR., Assistant Adjutant General. WASHINGTON, I). C.. October 14, 1S649.0 a. in. Major-Generol ALTGUR, Beetortowu: Operations on railroad will 1)e continned till further or(lers. II. W. JIALLECK, Major- General (HI d (~h i(J 9/ ASta if. WAR DEPARTIENT, lVas/ungtou, October 14, WG4. Major-(}enerol AUGUR, Reetorto Wa: I-I as General Sheridan reached you yet LI)WIN M. STANTON, Secretary / lVar. RECTORTOWN, NA., October 14, 18647.30 p. rn. (Received 7.45 p. in.) Maj. Gem H. W. IfALLECK, ~~f /. Staff: Trains from Alexandria have arrived and (lepartell to-day on time and without interference. 1\losby has not been hear(I of yesterday or to-day, so fur as I have heard from parties sent out. I sent cavalry last night from Piedmont toward Warrenton to ibid out the character of the Ibree said to have been there and what became of it. It was MeCauslands cavalry, but I could not learn why it turned back. Two of Mosbys men, captured to-(lay near Orleans, state that there was a fioht last evening after dark toward Flint Hill or Front Royal. There was some cannonadino- Ceneral Sheridan has not reached here, nor have I heard from him to-day. his staff officer here last night expressed doubt as to his coming at all. C. C. AUGUR, Major-General, Corn III afl(iiflg. CEDAR CREEK, October 14, 18643.30 p. m. (Received 7.4() a. m. t5th.) Major-General AUGUR, Reetortown: GENERAL: I got ready to go over and see you yesterday, and was on the point of starting when a Three of rebel cavalry made its appearanc Page 365 CE~. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 365 in my front. I had sent a brigade, 700 strong, to go across the Shenan- doah to establish a signal station on the mountains to the left of Stias- burg. The rebel cavalry opened three pieces of artillery on the ~)a.rty. I started cavalry division across the creek on the Rack road, and (rook seat a small division over toward Fishers Hill for the purpose of de- velol)ing the enemys force. Up to that time he had shown nothing but cavalry. As Crooks force pushed out, after crossing the creek toward Strashurg, the enemy moved o4t a strong infantry line of battle. After skirmishing for some time, Crooks command fell back to the north side ot the creek. The indications last night were that the enemy were in forceinfantry and cavalry, with artillery. The Sixth Army Corps, which started yesterday morning to march to Alexandria, was stopped and ordered back to Front Royal. It did not succeed in reaching Front Royal last night, but camped at iXIillwood. This corps was ordered up here this a. in., and reached this point about 12 m. to-day. During the night the enemy fell back. I had made arrangements to attack. I have not as yet made up my mind as to the intentioa of the enemy in making this move. I rather think that Early exnected to find oitly Crooks command here. He was under the impression that I had gone over to the Orange ainl Alexandria Railroad, to operate on that line. Colotiel Powells division of cavalry is at Front Royal. You had better continue your work on the railroad. If required, I will send over more troops. I am very anxious to see you, and will try and get over to you as soon as I possibly can. P. H. SHERIDAN, JJiLajor- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, Washington, I). (1., october ii, JJ-~G4., ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENEII AL, Headquarters of the Army: Siu~: In the abseiice of the major-general commanding, I have to inclose the within report, just received. To cover the line of the upper Potomac. and prevent the coming of guerrilla bands, there is no available cavalry in the department. There are to-day at Camp Stoneman 1,087 menequippe(l and not mounted ~06 and neither equipped or mounted ~ , 877. 1 respectfully recommend that horses be furnished and authority given to establish 354) of these mcii in camp near Muddy Branch, thence to patrol the Potomac to mouth of the Monocacy and down the left bank to Great Falls. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. 1-I. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure.] MUDDY BRANCh, October 14, P4G4. (Received 10.15 a. ma.~ Ma. C. H. RAYMOND, Ass ista a t Adjutant- General MAJoR~: I have the honor to report that party of rebels crosse(l the Potomac the nioht of the 11th and robbed the stores at Pooles- yule. They are crossing every night, a small party at a time. R~spectIhh1y, L. G. PIERCE, Captao?, Comm anditq Page 366 366 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., Ml)., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. IIDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGToN, 22n ARMY ConPS, October 14, 1864. Maor-General~ AuGuR, Reetortown: GENERAL: There axe at Camp Stoneman 1,087 cavalrymen waiting equipment and horses. The guerrillas are becomino- troublesome in the country toward Poolesville. I have applied to Headquarters of the Army for horses to mount 350 of these people, with the intention of establishing them near Muddy Branch to patrol the river. I author- ized General Slough to arm with rifles the surplus men of Battery II, Independent Pennsylvania Artillery, and nse them as train guards. Your communication received. Howe has returned. Respectfully, J. II. TAYLOR, Chief (4 Stajf ~tnd Assistant Adjutant- General. [IDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON. 221) ARMY CORPS October 14, 1864. Major-General AUGMR, Rectortown: GENERAL: General Halleck approves. I have ordered three compa- nies from the aqueduct to report to General Slough, leaving one on duty there. Can I not send the Fifth Wisconsin to Alexandria? It can remain there as well as here, and save time in the future. If neces- sary. it can be temporarily quartered at tile Soldiers Rest, Alexandria. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Sta/f and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 2211) ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. Maj. Gen. SILAS CASEY, Comm an ding Provisional Brigades: GENERAL: The major-general conunanding directs that you order the Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, now at Soldiers Rest, D. C., to report to Brigadier- General Slough, military governor of Alexai id ri a, without delay. Please inform these headquarters of their departure. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1861. Brigadier-General SLOUGH, Military Governor of Alexandria: The Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, 600 men, has i)eeu ordered to you. They are to be kept in Alexandria. Respectfully, C. 11. RAYMONI) Assistant Adjutant- General Page 367 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. $367 ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 14, 18647.30 p. m. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, (Received 7.40 P. in.) flea dqaa rters of Washington: Sin: I have to report that last night the picket near Edsalls was fired upon. The hi-c was returned. From an exclamation ilsed by oiie ot the guerrillas, it was thought one was wounded. The number of the guerrillas was about the same as the party that day before yesterday, near wood l)ile. killed two of the Sixth i~ennsylx-a nia Heavy Artillery. Re~pectfuliy, JNO. P. SLOUGh, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Cedar Creek-, lTa., October 11, 186410.15 p. m. Brevet aj ( )r-General EMORY (ommandiug Nineteehth A viny Corps GENEEAL: The major-general coiuiaaiiding directs that you send one divsiou ot your command out to make a reconnaissance in the direction of Stm-asburg at daylight to-morrow morning. Frequent reports of this reconnaissance will be made to these headquarters. Very res~)ectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff IIEAI)QVARTERS DETACHMENT N INETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. l3ri~-adier-General MCMILLAN, Corn ni a ndinq First Division: GENEIZAL: Pursuant to orders from headquarters Middle Military Division, the general commanding directs that you make a reconnais- sauce with vonr division at daylight to-morrow morning in the direction of Strasburg. Frequent reports of this reconnaissance will be made to these headquarters. You will move at such an early hour as to cross the ci-eck at early dawn. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, October 14, 1864. Brigadier-General GROVER. Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a copy of an order* to General McMillau. The general commanding directs that you have one brigade in readiness to move at daylight to-morrow morning to support this movement of General MeMillan. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. See next, ante Page 368 368 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, MIDDLE IM ILJTARY DIVISION, October 14, 18649 p. in. General MERRITT: GENERAL: The chief of cavalry directs that you have your command saddled at daylight to-morrow a. in., and that you be fully prel)ared to resist any attempt the enemy may make to cross the creek. Very respectfully, & c., WM. RUSSELL. JR., Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, October 14, 1864. General STEVENSON, Harpers Ferry: It is reported from Martinsburg that the railroad has been toni up and a paymaster and his funds captured. When and where (lid this occur, and have any measures been taken for recapture Immediate answer. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., October 14, 1864. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General Seward reported by telegraph this morning that the express train going west was captured at a point two miles east of Kearneys- ville by a party of rebel raiders 100 strong. The passengers were robbed and train burned. Major Moore, paymaster, with his funds, was captured. As soon as they destroyed the train, he reports that they moved off in the direction of Winchester. T immediately sent toward Charlestown, to endeavor to intercept them, all the cavalry at this postabont 100, poorly mountedand have but little hopes of their coming up with enemy. General Seward also dispatched two detach- ments in pursuit. I have not heard from any of them up to this hour. Trains have been sent to point of attack to repair damages, the track being partially destroyed. Will advise you of all particulars as soon as received. Respectfully, ~JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General, ()ommandiu~~. HARPERS FERRY, A!. VA., October 14, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Just heard from captured train. The attacking party was part of Mosbys command. They removed a rail, causing train to be thrown off the track, then robbed passengers and burned train. The point of attack was about two miles east of Kearneysville, about 2.30 a. in. Paymasters Moore and IRuggles, with their funds, were captured and carried off. The whole affair did not last more than one hour, the enemy retiriimg in gr~t haste in direction of Winchester, Q~*r~ Page 369 CHAP LV. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 369 Seward telegraphs that his courier parties were attacked last night twice by Mosbys command, between Bunker Hill and Winchester, and dispersed. Says Mosby with his entire command is between Winches- ter and Bunker Hill, with view to capture small parties and atta~k trains. I have no cavalry force here to operate with. Colonel Edwards has a regiment a.t Winchester. and will doubtless make an effort to disperse them. I shall send orders to hiiu to do so at once. My pur- suing party not heard front. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, BFif/a(lier- (kneral. RAE PER~5 ERR u v. XV. VA October ii, P~6.i, Hon. E. LXI. STANTON, Secretary of War: The cavalry sent out in pursuit of Mosbys guerrillas who burned the train have returned. Report that they failed to overtake them. They learned that they moved off in the direction of the Sheiiandoah, and, having several hours start, succeeded in getting away with their prisoners and plunder. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- ~enera(. BARPEns FERRY, W. VA., October 1.1 Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary ~f War: A body of rebels about 300 strong crossed Potomae this morning at ~Thite~s Ferry, in vicinity of mouth of Monocacy. They were struck this evening near Adamstown by Loudoun County Rangers. After a skirmish our force fell back toward Point of Rocks. [have sent Major French, with all the cavalry at Remount Camp, mounted, to-day in pursuit of them. Do not consider it more than a raid, as they were engaged in stealing horses when found. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY , XX. VA., October I~i. i8~-j. Hon. E. LXI. STANTON, Secretary of War: The force of the enemy that crossed the Potomac to-day wer eapor- tion of Mosbys commaiid, abont 250 strong. They crossed at Whites Ferry, about five miles below the month of the Moitocacy. Moved out to Adamstown, at which point they were met by the Loudoun County Rangers, and hnally driven back across the river. The loss on our side reported four men; enemys not known. They burned five canal- boats and stole a few horses. Their pnrposes were evidently a raid, including an attack on railroad traiiis. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Briga(lier- General. 24 m RVUE XLIII, PT II Page 370 370 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (liAr. LV. WAsHINGTOiN~ II). (X. October 14, 18G43 p. in. Brigadier.CTeneral ~TEVENS0N, Harpers Perry: The Secretary of War directs that if the paymasters have not left. Martiusbur~ or are still within your reach, they return to Harpers Ferry and remain there till further orders, or until General Sheridan sends a proper mounted escort. TI W. TIALLECK, 11(1)0/- (icc era( (md Ohmej of A~taff. II A I~I?7ERS ~ Y, October Ii, 1sGi. (Received 8.40 p. m.~ Major-(~enerai II AELECN. (Thief oj #~tmtfl: The only telegram received front yon was iii regard to paymasters. I jininediatel conmniunica ted your or(ler to General Seward, at Martins- burg. 1~es})ectfn11y. JNO. I). STE VENSOIN, .iiriqa(lier- (eneral. lb/I NT Et i s, (Mo/wi 14, i-~G4. Geacral STEVFLNS()N: Iwo mcii have this iaoment (4)nle lit tioiu Adainstowit. ikingers rharged an(i drove eaemy. who in turn charged and scattered our force. I have sent to have G-ruibb rally and keep his men together at all hazards. 1 have no horse. or 1 would go. First traiLl got throngh, liitt the second is just itow bark. There ecitainly are troTh 200 to ~00. BITRTNETE. PoiNi OF RA)( Ii 5, Octohe, Ii, ISb ii.;~ p. cm. Hiigadier-General STEVENSON: Captain Grubb, Londoun Rangers, l0() men, sent back for re-enforce- inents. Reports 250 of the enemys cavalry between Adanistown and \l onocacv River. stealing l~orses. General rfyl(i., at Monrovia, has been mntorined; Government wires cut. I have (lireeted (}rnbb to follow up aHd pitch into theni at the first opportunity; at all events, to hold the enemy and annoy him until further developments. Will wait direc- tions from you. Spence caught the operator, an(i he will keel) him. BITRTNETE. H EADQlJARTER5, Uarjper~ Ferry. October 14, i~64. Captain I3URTNETE: Dispatch received. All right. What torec is it Send word to Grnbb to oive them no rest. Direct cavalry scout sent down from here to unite with Grubbs eommali(i and give all assistance possible. Shall scIi( I d wn to-night a lditional cavahy. JOHN I). STEVENSON, I1riqO(lier- Gecera 1 Page 371 CHAP. LVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 371 POINT OF ROCKS, October 14, 1864. General STEVENSON: GENERAL: Captain Grubb returned here half an hour since, and said the enemy were retreating toward the river, but he thoaght best not to follow. I ordered him immediately back. Since then two of his men have come in who followed the enemy and saw about 100 of them cross. Grubb has lost three or four men; the enemys loss is not known. They have all doubtless crossed by this tinie. Becoming alarmed, Grubb is reprehensible for this retiring, and he met my order on the way coming in. I have sent down the infantry as a precautionary movement. I would not advise the sending of any fnrther force. They are supposed to be Nosbys men. BUIITNETE, Captain. POINT OF ROCKS, October 14. 1864. General STEVENSON: All quiet on the Potomac. They have all recrossed. Passenger trains east have ~one on. Have directed Grubb to remain at river until further orders. Captain Spences command are now here, but in readiness. He deserves credit for his promptness in the matter. Will return on next freight train, unless otherwise ordered. B URTNETE. POINT OF ROCKS, October 14, 1S643.20 p. m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: SIR: The rebels reported crossing at Whites Ferry, and moving toward Frederick, the boatmen say, with a large frree. I have sent the Loudoun Rangers to meet then]. B. SPENCE (a ptain. Commanding. HARPERS FERRY. October 14, 1864. Captain SPENCE, Point of Rocks, Aid.: Move out with all your infantry force to assistance of Captain Grubb. If there are not more than 230 cavalry, you ought to whip them easily. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. POINT OF HOCKS, October 14. 1~644 p. m. General STEVENSON: F moved clown the canal to (nt theni otT. B. SPENCE, Captain Commanding Page 372 372 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. V~ , MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. UEADQU ARTER 8 MILITARY I )IsTnlcT 01 HARPERS FERRY, Harper8 Perry, W. Va., October ii, 1864. Major FIZENCII. Commanding Remount Camp, Plea8ant Valley, Md.: MAJOR: Move with all of your available cavalry at once to Point of Rocks, Md.; unite your force with the forces in that vicinity, and attack a body of rebel cavalry near Adamstown. The rebel force is reported to be between 200 and 300. If they have moved from that point, follow them np and captnre or destroy them. By order of Brig. Gen. J. D. Stevenson: [I. W. PITCHER, Licatenant (U? d Aide-de- Camp. MARTINSBURG, October 14, 18645 a. m. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: The night passenger from the Ferry was attacked some three miles west of Kearneysville. Part of the train is reported to have been burned and the track slightly damaged. The train east ~vas signaled, and re- turned to Martinsburg in safety. I have sent oat two scouting parties, and will give you facts in detail as soon as I can obtain them. The number of the attacking party is estimated variously from 100 to 200. I have no faith, however, in there being more than 100, at most. II shall send out a construction party to repair damages at once. W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. MARTIN5BURQ October 14, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: An officer just arrived from Kearneysville reports that the train was attacked two miles east of that place, instead of west. All the passen- gers were robbed, including Major Moore, a paymaster, with ~80,000. The attacking party then made off toward the Winchester road. I have a scouting party after them and hope to overhaul some of them. W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBITRG, October 14, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Citizens arriving from beyond Bnnkei- lull report positively that Mosby is concentrating his men two or three nmiles the other side of that place. So fai- as I can learn, all small parties on the Winchester pike yesterday were attacked. I fear that the telegrams for General Sheri- dan sent out yesterday afternoon were captured, but ii ave no positive information as to the fact. My scouting party has retum-ned without success. Major Moore and Major liuggles, ~)ay1LIasteIs, were both cap- tured ott the train last night. XV. II. SEWARI), Brigadier- General Page 373 CHAP. LY.J ~oE ?.ESPoj~TDi2N-ej:, ETCUNION. 873 Al A IUFTNSH 1n4, Uclo/wr 1.. Hbi. 8ri~adier-Gelleraj STE VENSoN: Does the picket aTl(l patrol from Harpers Ferry exteiid west to Kear- neysville l W. II. SEWARD Brigadier- Gen eral~ [HARpm?s FERRY,] October 14. .1~G4, General SEWARD: I have no picket beyond my Olltsi(le l)icket, a mile out. 1 shall Send with express train in future a ~uar(l of 100 men. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Martindnrq, ()etober 14, 1M4. T3ri gadier-General STEVENSON (ontmaiulinq Military f)istriet o/ harpers Perry GENERAL: A lot of captured cattle have arrived this evening from Winchester; also a small train, with an infantry escort, amounting in all to 300 men. Quartermaster and commissary departments are very anxious to get their train off in the morning. Shall I send it out with Curtis (Virginia) brigade (1,000 strong), or detain it and the escort longer on account of the paymasters l I have sent to the Ferry this afternoon the eleven captured guns by Sheridan on the 9th. 1 have telegraphed you all the information I could obtain from the front. It seems to be the impression of the officer from Winchester that the shelling of the Eighth Corps yesterday was a surprise. If the orderly reaches the Ferry too late to bring back an answeuz by the passenger train returiung, please telegraph me about sending out the train to Win- chester in the morning. Some of the paymasters are much alarmed, but I guess I can take care of them. W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. MARTINSEITEG, Oetober 14, 186!.. Maj. B. NY. BRICE: MAJOR: I have my funds in the parlor of the United States Hotel here, guarded by a regiment. The express train was burned eight miles west of Harpers Ferry between 2 and 3 oclock this a. m. Major Ruggles clerk escaped, and is now with me. He reports Major Rug- gles and money taken. I also have the fact of his and Major Moores capture from other passengers on the train. Cannot say certainly about Major Moore. ft is reported that Major Ruggles is recaptured, and is saiP at Harpers Ferry. Was up most of last I1ight. General Seward, who is in command here, says lie will use all his efforts to protect us and our money. I shall make no move until I can do so with safety, and in the meantime wait orders from yourself and Major Paulding. Please show this to him. JONATHAN LADD, I~aym aster, U. 8. A rmm~ Page 374 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., ANi) PA. CHAP. IA. 374 HEADQUARTERS U. S. FoncEs, Winchester, Va., October 14, 1864. Major RUSSELL, AssI. Adjt. (ien., Carairy Corps. Middle Military J)irision As Major Durland has shown to me your rel)rimand to his regiment, I feel called upon to state that I have never seen a better disciplined cavalry reginient than the Seventeenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. They have been worked very hard on escort (luty, and of all the dispatches carried by them but one has been lost. The escort in charge of the dispatch I refer to was in charge of a sergeant who cut his way through and arrived at Edenburg safely, where he was furnished an escort front the Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry to proceed to Harrisonburg. That escort was captured, together with the sergeant and his dispatches. In every other case they have cut their way through twice their num- ber and safely delivered their dispatches. The escort accompanying Lieutenant-Colonel Tolles I think was ready to do all that men could do. I learn that the rear guard gave tinmely notice of the approach of the guerrillas, that the lieutenant in charge wished to turn and meet thent, that Colonel Tolles gave him orders not to do so, but to move on at a steady trot. This enabled the enemy to come close enough to charge, and they being much better mounted were able to charge into the midst of the escort. Perhaps the lieutenant should have commanded his escort in his own way, but I do not consider him much to blame. I have felt called upon to write this in justice to the Seventeenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and though Major Durland requests to be or(lered to the front, I trust he will not be relieved. Very respectfully, your obedient servai It, 0. EDWARDS, Colonel, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA, Near Cedar Creek, Va., October 14; 1864. Brevet Major-General KELLEY, Cumberland, 31(1. The commanding general directs me to inform you that Brig. (4en. A. N. Duffi~ has been ordered to Hagerstown, Md. He wishes you to have the dismounted men at Cun7lberland mounted and armed as rapidly as possible, and report to him often the progress you make in so doing. P. G. BIER, Assista a t A d~utant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. 1ST CAy. Div., DEPT. OF W. VA., No. 7(5. Cumberland, Md., October 14, 1864. * III. Brig. Gen. A. IN. Dutli6 having returne(1, Col. J. E. Wynkoop is hereby relieved front command of this division, and will resume coni- inand of the Second Brigade, relieving Col. R. M. Richardson. $ * * * * By command of Brig. Gen. A. N. Dufti6: F. W. (LARK, ~JR., Assista at Adjn Ut ~ (1 enera I Page 375 ~HAP. LV. (OIRhESI~ON L)ENC I~, LI 1! NJON. ., t;) 8~LTIMOtZTh MD., October 14, tSbiJ p. iii. (Received 4.40 m in.) Maj. (iiii. H. \\. HALLECTi, General Tyler informs ~i~e that the rebel force reported at Adams- town Tuesday night turns out to be three thievesprobal)]y citizens of the vicinity. He says that our lines are insufficiently guarded is apparent, and the railroad is sulz~ject to assault any lioui \ s soon as the Fifth Massachusetts returns from Eastern Shome I will send him four companies; there are no other troops to ~pai e the few are con- stantly employed guarding prisoners, recruits, & c , goin~ to the front. I would respectfully state that the term of serVi( e ol five regiments expires this month. SAME. B. I \iA I ENCE, A SSt st (t itt ldj ate ut (~e~ era 1. BALTIMoizI;~ \ID.. ()etober 14, i5UI 11 i ) 4) in. (l~eceived 11.30 p. in.) Major-General IIALLECK, (It jef of A~.t( The enemy was at Buckeystown. foni miles front the Monocacy, at. 4 p. in. this evening. This information has only just reached me. Gen- eral Tyler has called for assistance, and I am doing my utmost to send him troops. Will have seven coinpaliles ot inftintrv On the road in a few hours. One re~imen{ of colored trooi)s has arrived. en ronte to City Point. (an I use t1inem~ SAME. 8. LAWRLNCE, A s.s is/a ttt A d1 ti/a ut- pert era 1 IIDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT. PhGiITJI An~iv romps, Baltintore. liEd.. October H. 1SGi1i~4:~ p. tn~ Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, iLo;tocacq, Baltimore and Ohio I?ailroad: A train, with seveu companies of infantry, will be on the road in two hours. Your dispatch has just reached inc. Au ainmnnitiou train will be sent to you also with a guard. Look out for it. Will (10 my utmost to assist you. Please make frequent reports. SAME. 14. LAWRENCE, A -s-s ista it.t A djt tent- Genera I. BALTIMORE, MD.. October 14, 1~b4. Brevet Brigadier-General MORRIS, Fort MeHenry The moment the Fifth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia arrives have four companies ready to proceed at once to the Relay I-louse and report to Brigadier-General Tyler, commanding at that point. By command of Major-General Wallace: OLIVER MATTHEWS, A s-s tsta itt itdjutant- General Page 376 376 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANJ) PA. [CHAP. LV. IAET IM( ) nE, MD., Ocloher ii, iRbi 12 in. [General MOuRIS: GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that the utmost expedition is necessary to get the troops off to-night General Tyler is seriously threatened. It is likely that the troops sent to the Eastern Shore will arrive early in the morning; then get the four companies Fifth Massa- chusetts ready to start at once. Hold all your remaining trOOl)5 in readi- ness to move. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAML. 13. LAWIIENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. ITDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT I3IOMTH ARMY CORPS, Bait unore. lid., October Ii, 186111.30 p. m. Brigadier-General LocKwooD, Corn dy. Officer Third t~eparate Brig.. fi]i~qhth Army Corps You are hereby directed to put three companies One hundred and ninety-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia en route at once for the Monocacy, to report to Brig. Gen. E. B. Tyler. Make the companies as strong as possible. Issue forty rounds of ammunition and three days rations. Let no time be lost. Transportation is ready at the Mount Clare Station. By command ot Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. [IndorMement HD~IZS. THIRI) SEPARATE BHw I3IGHTH ARMY CORP~ Ilaltimore, October 15, 1864. Respectfully returned to department headquarters, with the informa- tion that this order has been complied with. The three companies of the One hundred and ninety-fourth Regiment being very small, all under fifty men by reason of the heavy details, a part of Companies D and G of the First Eastern Shore Maryland Vol- unteers was sent. HENRY H. LOCKWOOD, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGhTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, Md., October 14, 186411.30 p. m. Col. S. M. BOWMAN, Commanding Officer, Wilmington, Del.: Send as many companies as can be spared of the One hundred and ninety-third Pennsylvania Militia by the first train that can be got ready. Let no time be lost. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 377 CHAP. LV.} CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. :~ 77 WAR I)EPA RTMEiNT, AD.JuvA~i~-Gi~I~ i~ A LS OFFICE, Washington. I). (1 October ii, 1/~G4. Brig. Geii. L. THoXIAS, Adpttant- General U. ~. Army (with sir reg~ments of colored troops en route joy Batt~more), Wheeling, JJT Va., Jlalthnore and Ohio Depot: A part of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad between Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry is broken by Mosbys guerrillas, who may attack other parts of the line. The Secretary thinks it may not be safe for your troops to come over it. File says you are not restricted to that road, and if you send the troops over it you must be sure proper precautions are taken for their safety. Answer. E. I). TOWNSEND, Assistant A dj1(taflt- General. SPECIAL ORDERS.? WAR i)EPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 347. Washington, October 1.1, 1864. * * * 76. The new camp near the city of Philadelphia, provided for the accommodation of troops sent to the State for discharge or reorganiza- tion, will be known as the Discharge Camp. The said camp, so far as relates to the muster-out, disc and reorganization of troops, will l)e tinder the control of the superintendent of recruiting service and chief mustering and disbursing officer of the Eastern Division of Penn- sylvania, and to this end the commander of the camp will co-operate and confer with the superintendent of the volunteer recruiting service. For the government of the camp, paragraphs ii 2 6 11 and 12 of Circular No. 74, Se pteinber 14, 1864, from this office will be applied, substituting for the words Draft Rendezvons, wherever they occur, the words Discharge Camp. Major Hancock, assistant adjutant-gen- eral of volunteers, is hereby assigned to the command of Camp Dis- charge. and will forthwith take post thereat and enter upon his dnties. * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of Wai-: E. 1). TOWNSEND, A ssistant Adjntan t- General. WASHINO-TON F). C., October 15, 1S(u. CAVALRY BUREAU: Shipments of cavalry horses to the Army of the Potomac will be sus- pended for a few days. The dismounted cavalry sent to depot from Middle Department, and also any others here fi-om General Sheridans army, will be remonnte(l. Report the number so remounted each day. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of St a/h RECTomvo~rN, VA., October 15, 1864. (Received 6 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: The construction party have not been at work on the railroad for two days, and the indications are that the road is not to be advanced be Page 378 378 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. I hAl. LX. youd this point. If this be the case J would like to be informed, as the guard for the railroad and post at Piedmont, as well as the force I have covering the working party, are in that event unnecessary, and can be withdrawn and relieve troops iii the rear. C. C. AUGUR, ]Iajor- General. I~ECT II TOWN. XTA., October 1 ;, 1861. ~Received 7.45 ~ In. Major-General IIALLECIi, Chief of Staff: I am gratified to be able to send you the following (lispatch just received from Colonel Gaiisevoort, eonmandim~ Thirteenth New York Cavalry: H EAI)QUARTRRS CAVALRY HRI( ~AJ)E PiCdflJOfli, Va.. October 1/;, 18c. General AUGUL: GENERAL: I have just returned with my command from the Blue Ridge Mouui- tains, where I surprised the artillery camp of Colonel Mosby, captuririu his cntLre artillery of four pieces. with ammuuition complete, and sets at harness. Particulars hereafter. I am, very resl)ectfhllly, your o1)cdient servant. II. S. GANSEVOOI~T C. C. AU(IIUR, liajor~ GeneraL RE( T( ) F~T( )WN~ October i~ idbl. (Received 8.15 p. hui.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief (~[ taft: The train from Alexandria has arrived and reported on time to-day, and without interference from guerrillas. Nothino heard from General Sheridan to-day. C. C. AUGUIt, Ala joy- General. SPECIAL ORDERS,? UDQES. I )EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TXvENTY-SECOND AniviY CORPS, No. 258. October 15, IRG4. * * * 2. The Third Regiment U. S. infantry, Captain Sheridan, having been reported at these headquarters, pursuant to Special Orders, No. 333. paragraph 24, War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, October 5, 1864, will be reported without delay to Col. M. N. Wisewell, military governor, for assignment to duty at Camp Relief; Seventh street, in this city. * * * -r * By command of Major- General Augur: C. 11. RAYMOND, A .s~astant A (lpltant- General Page 379 CHAP LV. CORhESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 379 IiDQRS. DEPARTMENT (iF XVASIIINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 15, 186L Brig. Gen. A. P. HOWE, Tnspeetor of Artillery GENERAL: Battery H, First Rhode Island Aitillery, has been ordered to report to you. The major-general commanding directs that you cause it to be mounted and prepared for the field, with as little delay as prac- ticable. Pkase notify these headquarters when it is ready to moveto City Point, Va. t am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 15, 1864. (Received 10 a. in.) AsSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON: Six companies Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, 560 men, reported to me for duty last evening at 8 oclock. Respectfiuly, .. ~. SLOUGH, Jlriqadier- General. IIDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washinqton, 1). C., October 15, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. P. SLOUGH, 1! ilitarq Go rernor of Alexandria: GENERAL: It is reported that a train of quartermasters wagons, 100, between Burkes Station and Fairfax, are exposed to surprise from guerrillas. Please take such measures as will insure the safety of the train. Respectfully, J. 11. TAYLOR, Chiet of Ataff and A ssistaat Ad jutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, October 15, 1864. A~S5I5TANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON: SlR: Nothing to report this evening, except that 200 men have been sent to guard the quartermasters train of wagons. Respectfully, .INO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General qf Volunteers, Commanding. ALEXANDRIA~ VA., October 1:3, 18647.20 p. rn. (Received 8.15 p. in.) Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: The patrols report all quiet. I have sent a few cavalry to look after some guerrillas said to be in the neighborhood of Occo- quan. W. W. WINSHIP, Captain, (PC Page 380 3 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA (fIAT. tv. 0ctoher I;)~ Th(; L The troops will be nuder arias at early (layliglit to-niorrow, and the batteries, wagons, and aml)nlances harnessed and hitched in. The corps officer of the day will see that the Pickets are tinder arms at day- light. By colunialid of Major-( ~eneial Wright: C. 11. WHITTELSEY, ct~TS /.(t(( at 1 (ljUt(O/ t- (~Yii era 1. I)ARNESTOWN, (hto/wr i~, 1161. Major ECKERT: All lost. Even citizens were passing through. here front l~oolesvifle with their horses to get them aWay from rebels. They report 2,00f rebels between there and iXionocacy. They say their orders are to buri everything within ten miles from the rivet. I saw a large tire in direc- tion of Poolesville at 1 oclock last night. I start now with twenty men to try and repair line. S. SAI~GENT. HEADQUARTERS THIRD i)IvIsIoN, CAVALRY CORPS, October 15, JSG41.20. Colonel PENNINGTON, Comm andinq First kriqade: From information deemed reliable, the major-general commanding the army anticipates an attack on t.he part of the enemy to-morrow. In accordance with instructions from army headquarters you will have your entire command up and saddled up at 5 oclock to-morrow morn- iltg. You will also at daylight to-morrow morning send a regiment out on the Back roa(l five or six miles to reconnoiter, also a small party on the road to the right of the Back road for the same purpose. It is ot the utmost importance that this reconnaissance be made at (laylight. By command of Brevet Major-General Custer: L. W. BARNHART, Actinq Assistant Adjutant. general. HARPERS FERRY, W. \TA.. October 15, 1R64. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Aecretart/ of War: Telegraphed you last night that Mosbys men, who had burned the train, succeeded in making escape across the Shenandoah with pris- oners and booty. The few that crossed below the Monocacy were routed at Adamstown and driven across the Potomac. Paymasters will re~mrn to Washington in the morning train. Hear this morning from General Sheridan indirectly. Report is that Crooks command were attacked by the enemy day before yesterday; the fight continued until after night. No further particulars, than that Colonel Wells, Thirty-fourth Massachusetts, was killed, and Colonel Thoburit wounded. Nothing official in regard to the affair; shall have particulars, ito (loubt, to-day. Everything is apparently right on the line of the railroad. Sheridans captured guns arrived last night. Respectfully, ~10HN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 381 CHAP. LV. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 381 HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., October 15, 1864. lion. E. NI. STANTON, Secretary o/ War: An aide of Major-General Emory has ari~ived from the front and confirms a report of the enemy shelling the Eighth Corps. Says Sheri- dan is holding position at Cedar Creek, having concentrated his coin- mand. The enemy had not developed their infantry, reported to be under command of Generals Eongstreet and Hill. Did not know their strength. Paymasters all right; on flOOli train for Washington. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier.Gencral. Harpers Perr HEADQUARTERS, Hon. E. iXi. STANTON, y, October 15, 18649 p. m. Secretary of War: Brigadier-General Seward reports a staff officer of General Grover arriVe(l at l\Jartinsburg from front; left there yesterday evening. The enemy on west side of Cedar Creek, though not believed to be in heavy force. There was no dghting yesterday. Sixth Corps had arrived from Front Royal. Respectfully, JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. I\JARTINSBURG, October 15, 1864. Brigadier.General STEVENSON: Colonel Cahill has just arrived front Winchester with 350 mcii, escort for 270 wagons. lie reports all quiet at the front. A staff officer of General Grovers, who left the front last evening, reports the enemy on the west side of Cedar Creek, although not in very strong force, as was generally believed. The Sixth Corps had just arrived front Front Royal. No dgliting yesterday. W. 11. SEWARJ), Brigadier- General. hEADQUARTER S 1\IJLITAR V DiSTRICT OF VIARPERS FERRY October 15, 1864. General SEWARD: You will send out your train this morning, and add to it the train and escort that just came in. 1 will send you 300 cavalry to-day. JOHN P. STEVENSON. If rigadier- General. MART IN 8RRl~G, October Ia, LS64. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: Will start paymasters on noon train east, with guard of 150 men. Shall start wagon train as soon as loaded, probably about 2 oclock Page 382 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 383 HEADQUARTERS POST, New (Jreek, IV. Va., October 15, 1864, Lient. C. A. FREEMAN, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General LLEUTENKNT: I have the honor to make the following report of a scout sent from this post, under command of Capt. P. J. Potts, Sixth Battalion West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry, on the 12th instant, per orders from the general commanding: Captain Potts reports that he proceeded to Greenland Gap, from thence to the headquarters of the independent scouts, where he formed a junction with Capt. T. XV. Kelley as directed; from thence he went to Petersburg without opposi- tion. After obtaining all the information possible he returned to camp via Williamsport and Burlington. He was informed by very reliable parties that there is a rebel force in iMloorefield, consisting of Wood- sons, Harness, MeNeills, and a part of Scotts command all under command of Woodson, between 800 and 400 men (mounted), total num- ber said to be there. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. FLEMING, (Jajilain, Commanding Post. WASHINUT N, October 15, 1864. (ol. S. B. LAwRENCE~ & dtimore, Md.: it is believed that no large force of the enemy has crossed the Potomac. All of Mosbys artillery was captured yesterday by General Augur. The colored regiments should proceed to City Point. Being new they could be of little use against guerrillas. II. XV. IJALLECK, Ala jor- General and Chief ~t kS1taff. WAsnINt~ToN ,i). C., October Th, 1564. Colonel LAWRENCE, Assistant A d jutant- General, B(( itimore Send your (lismnounted cavalry to cavalry depot, Washin gtoii, for icinounts. Telegraph the number. H. W. IIALLECI(, Major- General and Chicf~ (j staff. P~AvIiMonE. Mi., October 15, 1564. (Received 5 p. ma.) Maj. Gen. 14. W. HALLECK, (Jhief of & aff: Your two telegrams received. Disiiioiu~ted cavalry will be en route in a few hours for Washington. Have given General Tyler over 500 infantry and ~)lenty of ammunition. (Inc regiment of the colored troops ready to go to City Point to-night. Everything is ready for the baJa ace as they arrive, to go forward, fully equipped, without aiiy (lelay. SAME. 13. LAWRENCE, A ssistan t A (Ijutan t- (#en era 1 Page 383 384 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CuAP. LV. RELAY HOUSE, October 15, 1S61. Lieutenant-Colonel LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- Geiteral: The rebel force that crossed Nolands Ferry yesterday came up as far as Buckeystown, about 100 strong, and went back after a very short stay. My little cavalry force was trying to take care of our own and the Department of Washington, and were too far down to get up in time to take charge of the fords in the Department of the Shenandoah. One company (Captain Churchman) reached the riverjust as they were crossing, and gave them one volley. Aiu I expected to guard the fords above the Monocacy, out of this department, as well as those in Depart- ment of Washington? l~. B. TYLER, Brigadier- General. IIDQ~s. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, 314., October 15,1861. Brig. Gen. E. 13. TYLER, Relay House, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: General Flalleck evidently looks to you to guard all the fords of the Potomac as far up as Point of Rocks at least. Can you not use in- Thntry some? Four companies of Veteran Ninety-first New York were ordered to report to you. These, with the other five companies, are all that were sent. An ammunition train was sent. Please report its arrival. SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, Baltimore, lId., October 15, 1861. Brig. Gen. E. B. TYLER, Belay House, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad: You are hereby directed to guard the fords of the Potomac as far up as Point of Rocks wherever not protected by troops belonging to De- partment of Washington or other troops. To this end you will use your cavalry as far as possible and make up deficiency by infantry. Please make report of the disposition of your command. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE. Assistant Adjutant- General, HEADQUARTERS SECOND SEPARATE BR1GADE, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, DEFENSES OF BALTIMORE, Fort ]lifeHenry, October 15, 18611.30 a. m. Lient. Col. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General: SlR: iii have the honor to report that four companies of the Ninety- first New York Veteran Volunteers, numbering 280 men and S officers. have just left for the (lepot, en route to the Monocacy. Very res~)cctfully, yout obedient servant, W. W. MORRIS, Brecet Brigadier-General, U. ~. Army, (Jommatatitg Page 384 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 385 HEADQUARTERS SECOND SEPARATE BRIGADE, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS, DEFENSES OF BALTIMORE, Fort ]Ifcffenry, October 15, 1RG11.JJ a. m. Ejeut. Cal. SAMUEL B. LAWRENCE, A~.sistant Adjutant- Genera I: SIR: I have the honor to report that one officer, three non-commis- sioned officers, and forty men have just left for the railroad crossing to guard the ammunition train to Gen. E. B. Tylers command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. XV. MORRIS, Bre ret Brigadier- (. en era 1. U. ~N. itrnu~, Commanding. HDQRS. MiDDLE i)EPA F~ TMENI, BiGHT 1-I AIZM Y Cones, October 15, lbU.i. Bvt. Brig. Gen. W. XV. MoRRIS, Fort ]JIdllenry: The section of the battery will not be needed. Please retuiti the horses to the quartermaster, and turn over guns and implements to ordnance officer. SAML. 8. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjata at- General. CAMDEN STATIoN, Octobe~~ 15, 1864. ~. ~. (ARRETT, (Received 12.30 p. in.) President Agent Kohlenberg, Adamstown, explains that Mosbys raid there yes- terday could not have been committed but for the tact that there were ito pickets between Nolands Ferry and Muddy Branch, on the Poto- mac, thus exposing the river frontier and the line of our road between Point of Rocks and Monocacy. Does not this suggest a prompt inves- tigation i)y authorities? We have no fresh alarm, but the two affiuirs have badly deranged the working of the road, and will involve an im- niense loss to the company in every way. We are fully piepared to bring large numbers of troops from the West, but Ford says General Thomas has been telegraphed from Washington to use his discretion about giving our road any more, W. P. SMITH. CITY I~o1NT, \A.. October 16, ThG47.80 p. nt. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECIi, lVasliington, 1). C.: I think 110 troops have left Richmond; on the contrary, the artillery- men who lost their pieces have returned. Kershaws division, and probably some of Breckinridges forces that were not in the previous engagements in the Valley, may hiave gone to meet Sheridan. IT. S. GRANT, Lie a ten ((at- (Thu era 1. 25 u RV L XLIII. PT Page 385 386 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. (w~r. LV. RECIOIITOWIN. ~\ A., October 1(1, 14i.:~() p. in. Ueeei VCU 2.3() p. in.) Maj( )I~-Ge1 iera I HALLECI, Chief 0/ 8tafl: 1 have, no cipher clerk here. An intercepted signal dispatch wouki iiidicate that Lou gstreet was marching to join Early with considerable force, and was not fir oft. have you heard that any rebel force has l)een detached from Richmond! Cipher dispatches sent me yester(iay or day before, via thi 5 l)lace, were lost. P. II. SHEIJI)AN. ]Jo~jor- General. AASII IN T( )IN, I). ( .. October Ib~ ISUi.i p. m. Ma joi-(rciieiial SnERIInAIN, J-?eetorto wit General C-rant says that Longstreet brought with him no troops from Richmond, bnt I have very little confi(lencc in the information collected at his headquarters. If you can leave your command with safety come to Washington, as I wish to give you the views of the authorities here. II. W. LIIALLECK, h1(t jot- (leneral ((lid (Thief of t~taff. lIic T( )I{T( \VIN, V A.. Oetoler 16, 15G4~5 p. m. (Received ~.3O p. us.) iMlajor-( icueral IIALLECK, Chief t~taft: The following dispatch was taken front a rebel signal station while on the road here: Lieutenant-General EAliL Y, Fishers JzI)ll: Be ready to advance on Sheridan as soon as niv lorces get i~~ 111(1 we can crnsh hEn if he finds out I have ,jOiILe(l you. J. LONGSTREET. This (lispatch is not in accordance with all the information that I have been able to gather heretofore; but I thought some information to corroborate it might have been in the cipher (hispatelles lost yester(lay. General Wright, iii command, has made every prei)aration to meet the threat of Lou gstreet, if the dispatch should be true, and I feel confi- dent of good results. I would like to see you. is it best toi me to go to see vou~? - I~. II. SFIE1ITI)AN, ~lIajOi- General. NOTE.i ~ongstreefs I is~ )atch reads Im dly. Ci p1 vs referred to have been repeated. I~C Ni EIUl Page 386 CHAP. LY.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UN1ON. 387 WASHINGTOIN. I). C.. October ib, 1 64. Major-General AUWR. Rectortowa It is impossible to say how far the road is to be repaired, till we can have an interview with General Sheridan. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of A-)ta~[t. RECTOLUOWN, XTN., October 16, 184)1. (Received 1.35 p. 1.) ta/i: (h ie/ ol N General Sheridan just arrived h(1c. C. C. AIGUII, Miojor- Genea I. HDQRs. I )EPARTMENT OF VVASHJNGT )N, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 16, 1864. Major- General Auo-vR, Recto rtow it, I a.: GENERAL: Major Ludlam marches to-night with iSo men. I hope to send him 200 men to-morrow. This will be sufficient to close the river. I am authorized to arm, equip, and mount 200 men of First Delaware Cavalry and the First New Hampshire Cavalry. As soon as I can get these people on the line I will relieve all men belonging to the Cavalry Corps, Army of the Potomac. No organized bands of guer- rillas have crossed into Maryland this side of the Monocacy; horse- thieves and plunderers have. Lndlam will be able to cheek this. Respectfully, (h tij ii/ Staff (01(1 A N-P-ta itt A (I:Pft(f ut- General. lJI)Q115. I)EPARTILENT 01 XXA5TIJ]NGTO]N, 221) ARMY CORPS, October 16. 1864. Major LUPLAM, Eight/i Illinois Carairy: MAJOR: The major-~eneral commanding directs that you report without delay to Colonel Gamble, commanding Camp Stoneman, for (luty with trool)s under orders to march to the upper Potomac. Upon assuming eomman(l ot the detachment which he will turn over to you, you will move at once to Muddy Branch, or its vicinity, and establish your headquarters and take iinniediate mea snres to picket and I)atrol the Potomac front Great Falls to the mouth of the Monocacy. it is reported that guerrillas and horse-thieves eross the PW(T in consider- able numbers. This must be checked. You ~~-il1 be re-enforced as rapidly as the mounting and equipping of troops now at Camp Stone- nian will permit. Ileport by telegraph your arival at the camp desig- nated and afterward each p. Ia.. by some means, whatever ot ilIIl)ortance occurs iii YOUX collimalal. I aiii. major, very res~tecttiiIly. \-oii m obedient survamit, 4. 11. TAYLOR, (ii a;! api1 I sststan t A dj~t(tii t- General Page 387 388 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND i~A. L(HAP. LV. Hm~s. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22~ ARMY CORPS, October 16, 1864. Col. WILLIAM GAMBLE, Eighth liii aois Cavalry, Conunandiug Ca)ap Stoneman: COLONEL: The major-general comniandnig directs that the 1~7 men alluded to in your dispatch of this p. m. be prepared to march with as little delay as practicable. They will be placed on picket duty on the Potomac, with headquarters at Muddy Branch. Major Ludlam, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, will report to ~Oll at 8 p. in., to assume command of the detachment and move it. The chief of the Cavalry Bureau has informed these headquarters that the First Delaware Cavalry has arrived at Camp Stoneman. Be pleased to report the hour of its arrival. Such officers as you have send with the detachment under orders. it is desirable that these men, as far as possible, belon s to the same regi- ments. Furnish a list of officers assigned to duty with them, and give the number of officers left iu your camp available for duty with the detachments to be sent when mounted. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. TAYLOR, (Jhi ~f Staji and ~1~sistaut A ~juta nt- General. llIwRS. DEPARTMENT OF X\ASILINGTON, 221) ARMY CORPS. October 16, i~64. Col. WILLIAM GAMBLE, (1ommandin~j Camp AStoueman: COLONEL: It is desired that the First Delaware Cavalry be armed and mounted as soon as it reaches your camp. It will be sent when ready to move to report to Major Ludlam on the upper Potomac. Afterward arm, equip, and mount the First Kew Hampshire Cavalry. Report progress in each case, and inform these headquarters how many officers you need to send with the troops now in your camp waiting commandants, making the estimate as low as possible without detri- ment to the service. Very respectfully, colonel, your most obedient servant, J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Stall a)t(l Assjstant A dpttant- General. ALE XANDR IA, VA.., October 16, 1(564. (Received 8.43 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjatant- General: COLONEL: The party sent out last night toward Occoquan have returned. They found no guerrillas. All quiet to-day. I have turned over to General Slough eight guerrillas, to be j)laced on the trains run- ning to the front. W. W. W1NSH1P, Captain and Acting Provost-lie )Sh(tl- (Jeneral. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY GOVERNOR, Alexandria, 1 ~a.. October 16, 1861 1()__%5 a. m. Maj. Gen C. C. AUGUR, Ileetortown, In.: GENERAL: A small party of guerrillas have been operating in the vicinity ot Burkes. They have killed two of my mcii, wounde Page 388 (HAT. LX. COR~RE5PONDENCE, ET(.ITNION. 389 another, have fire(l oh my 2uauds several, times, an(i last night were detected in attempting to remove a rail iiear Fairfax Station. rf his can only be stopped in one waythat is, by placing on the trains prominent secessionists and captured guerrillas. 1 ask permission to arrest twenty of those in Alexandria, to be used in this manner; also the privilege of nsing the captured guerrillas now here in the same way. Please answer. Respeettully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, lIr iqadier- Oen era I of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS MIITARY GOVERNOR, Alexandria, Va., October 16, 1264. (Received ~.8O p. iii.) AssIsTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Hiead quarters i)epartm ent of Washington SIR~: Nothing to report this evening, except that last night an attempt was made to displace a rail neai Fairfax Station by guerrillas. Respectfully. JNO. P. SLOUGH, Briqa dier- General of Va lunteers. lILA I)QUA h~ TIERS 21 IDDLE MILl TARY .IRvisv (N, october 16, 1264. Maj. Gen. P. H. SHERIDAN, (omm a ndng Middle Military Dirision GENERAL: I inclose you dispatch which explains itself. If the enemy shonl(l be strongly re-enforced in cavalry, he might, 1)y turning our iight, give us a great deal of trouble. I. shall hold on here until the enemys movements are develop& l, and shall only fear an attack on my right, which I shall make every preparation for guar(iing against an(1 resisting. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. G. WRIGHT, Jia~or- General, (Yommaudinq. Ifl(h(HIlT4-. I Lieutenant-General EARLY: He ready to move as 5001; ~s my forces join you and we will crush Sheridai i. I 4ONGSTREET, Lieutenant- General. This message was taken off the rebel signal flag on Three-Top Mountain. I IEAI)QUARTER8 MIDDLE 21 ILITARY i)IVISION, Front Royal, October 16, 1864. Maj. Gen. II. G. WRIArnT, Coninianding Sixth Army Gorps: GENERAL: The cavalry is all ordered back to you; make your posi- tion strong. If Longstreets dispatch is true, he is under the impres- sion that we have largely detached. I will go over to Augur, and ma Page 389 3190 OPERATIONS IS 14. VA., W. VA., MD.9 ATh PA. tOni. fat get additional news. (hose in Colonel Powell, who wili be at this point. If the enemy should make an advance 1 know you will defeat him. Look welito your ground and. be well prepared. Get up everything thatoanbespared. Iwillbringupalllcan,andwillbsup onTues. day, if not sooner. P. IT. SI-TRUmAN, Fojor4es.eraL llnpns Iisuuv, W. VA., October 16, 1864. (Received 8.15 p. in.) Ms~jor-General HhLLEOK, Chief of & of: My command is not adequate to the responsibilities devolving upon me. When I received your telegram authorizing me to retain suehof the 4000 troo sent to Major-General Sheridan as I might need, 1 retained the Eighty fourth New York Infantry and Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry. I had then in my command ()urrie?s brigade, 1,800 men, and Third Maryland Infantry, 500 men. Under your order, I sent toGeneral Kelley800 men (Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry and Third Maryland Infantry). General Sheridan has ordered to the front Curries brigade, 1,800 stron. [have nothing to supply the vacuum made b~ these orders. In four days the term of service of the Eighty-fourth New York will expire. The One hundred and ninety. fifth Pennsylvania and Twelfth Maryland are 100-days organizations. Their term of service will also soon expire. These three regiments constitate the major part of General Sewards command. Both Mar- tinsburg and Harpers Ferry will thus be without sufficient garrison. The Infantry force of both these commands should be strengthened. I am literally without cavalry. At least 1,000 good cavalry should be attached to this command, to prowct us against the sudden dashes of the guerrilla organizations infesting this part of the country. ff1 had this cavalry, I could safely say Mosby could not reach the railroad. General Sheridans trains come don with such liqht guards that I do not consider it safe to return them without additional escort To do this,Ihavethusfarsent to the front everythingl had butnowiny means of improvising guards are exhausted. if General Aheridan con- tines his light guards (and I am in no condition to strengthen them), the con uencemustbe the loss of a train. A train of 270 wagons arrived from front last night, with an escort of 237 infantry and 160 cavalry. Of this infantry, 70 go home, their term of service having expired, leaving as a return escort, 100 infantry and 100 cavalry. I can strengthen this escort with 325 cavalry, just remounted, Mid even this is too weak for so large a train; yet I cannot do better. Respectfully. JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier-Oeueral. Hr~wQrnTzus MILITARY DisTricT O1~ HARPERS PERRY, Harpers .Z~ernj, 1W. Va., October 16,1864. Maj. Gen. P. H. SmnnN, Comuaaevliag Afiddle Military Divieios. Gmrna: I have forwarded to you promptly all troops arriving at this post. You also ordered to the front Ourries brigade. Openin Page 390 (flAP. IA. I ( ()RRLtSP( NDEN( 1K, IKtC,INION. ~) t t 114 rai tid est ai)lishillg Vi )lI i saj ~ 1.~ h p~ ii MartllLsl)l.Irg req aires itie to piovide toi that post ~1fl(l th(.~ prOi( ctioii ol the iailroa(L rf() (1(1 this I an lele(1 to Ma rti sburg Secan(1 Ea4erii Shoi e Maryland Jnfaiitry, 190. rank and tile; Eighteenth Connc tn ut 317; Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine, 380: Eightv-timrth N eu \ aik Infantry (100-days men), term at service explre(1: One bandied aid ninety-fifth Pennsyl- vania Infantry (100-days men), term of service expires on 20th, and rpwelfth Ma ryl and Infantry (100-days men), term of service soon expires. Of this force, One hundred and ninety-tifth Pennsylvania and Twelfth Maryland are guarding road tram IKearneysville to ilancoek, leaving far tatigue duty, guarding depot and supplies at Martinsburg, about 1,350 men. This force, in my judgment, is nat a(iequate to its responsi- bilities. When the term of service of the 100-days mneut expires the railroad will be without gllar(l. For garrison at the post I have solely Fifth New York heavy Artillery, First and Third Battalions, nearly the whole af which I am compelled to use as guards for stores and details. The only remaining troops are Gales cavalry and the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, which regiments, your chief of cavalry will intorm you, are not strictly reliable. For the guarding fords of Potomac, hospital, and cammissary stores at Pleasant Valley, railroad to Fred- erick, and garrison at that post I have First Potomac Home Brigade Intantry, 189 men (a miserable regiment), with Speuces dismnaanted artillery, 150 men as infantry, and the Laudoami County itangers, 100 strang; tatal, 400 men. This is my eiitire force; I think wholly i asuf ficient. The Third Maryland Infantry and Seventy-fourth Pennsyl- vania Infantry were ordered to General Kelley by War I)epartmnent, and no ldnger considered part of my force. In case of an attack upan this past I could aot muster 1,000 trusty soldiers; these are inadequate to the rautine duties daily incident to this post. As for cavalry, it was a farce to give me the Twelfth Pennsylvania and call it cavalry. They have only 336 men, ostensibly mounted, of which number not more than 200 can turn out mounted for the field. Of this number~ 150 men sent two weeks ago in charge of one of your trains have failed to return. I understand Colonel Edwards, at - Winchester, without authority, is detaining them at that post, so that I have really scarcely anything in the shape of cavalry. Mosby has now concentrated his guerrillas in your rear amid com- menced operations, burning railroad traimis and robbing passengers, which, without cavalry, I am powerless to prevent. He at the same time threatens all your supply trains. I understood yami to say, wheim we canvCrsed last upon the subject af this command that in the event of your catting loose you would give inc sufficient force. I cannot consider Iny force sufficient either for defense if attacked in force, or for offense against the forces of the enemy in your rear. I desire to call your attention to the fact that the escorts for your trains to the rear are entirely too light. A trahm of 270 wagons came into Martins- burg last miight with 100 cavalry and 230 infantry as an escort. lf such escorts are relied upon, time result will be the loss of a train. Of this escort, a portion of the imufantry are going home, leaving as a return escort about 260 men. To this I can add 325 remounted cavalmy, and yet this escort is too snuall. When you reflect upon the fact that Mar- tinsburg and a railroad line of fifty miles have been added to mmiy responsibilities, and that you have taken from my force Curries bri- gade and the War Department 800 imifantry far General Kelley, lcav- mug me without a single infantry regiment at 11111-pers Ferry, with no (-avalry to scout the country, you will nat accuse me of false clamor Page 391 392 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., ANT) PA. f(nAP. IN. I have thought it but justice to you, as well as myself, that you should be fully advised of the true condition of aiThirs, in order that you might take such action as you think proper. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, 11ru~adier. General. (iTIMIIERLAND, October 14, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: There is a rumor of a battle in front near Cedar Creek. Have you any news~ Respectfully, ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HARPERS FERRY October 14, 1844. (Received Ciimberland 8 p. in.) Capt. IL P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant- General: [have heard nothing of any eiigagement at the front. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, llrigadier- General. WESTON, W. VA., October 16, 1244. Brevet Major-General KELLEY: Youart, at Beverly, has information by Peirpoints scouts that a force of rebels is concentrating in lower end of Pocahontas and intend to attack Beverly. In view of the small [number] and quality of his arms he asks to be re-enforced by a few companies of inftLntry. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Commanding. HARRISI3IJRQ PA., October 17, 1864. (Received 2.20 p. in.) His Excellency A. LINCOLN: I have information, from sources which I have hitherto found reliable, that the enemy has arranged for a raid into Pennsylvania about the end of this month. Part of my information is, that Sheridans force has been reduced to 25,000, and that the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps are under orders to join General Grant; that, although nominally at Strasburg, Sheridans forces are at Winchester and Berryville; that there is a rebel force near the railroad, independent of Mosby. I have little doubt a serions threat, much more a raid into Pennsylvania in this month, would be followed by serious disaster. I notice that the Secretary of War is absent or I would go to Washington to-day. Will you please to telegraph me to-day on the subject as part of my infor- mation you know to be correct or error. I propose to go to Washing Page 392 ~} 92 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. I hax c thought it 1)ULt justice to you, as well as myself, that you should be fully advised of the true condition of aiThirs, ilL order that you might take such action as you think proper. i~es})ectfullv, .JOHN I). STEVENSON, Jiru,adier. General. CUMBERLAND, October 16, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON: There is a rumor of a battle in flout near Cedar Creek. Have you ~uiv news ~ Respectfully, ROBT. P. KENNEDY, iLs.~istant A d jutant- General. HARPERS FERRY, October 16, 1861. (Received Cumberland 8 p. in.) Capt. li. P. KENNEDY, A~sThtant Adjutant- General: [have heard nothing of any eligagemeut at the front. JOHN I). STEVENSON, lirigadier- General. WESTON, W. VA., October 16, 1R64. Brevet Major-General KELLEY: Youart, at Beverly, has information by Peirpoints scouts that a force of rebels is concentrating in lower end of Pocahontas aud intend to attack Beverly. In view of the small [number] and quality of his arms he asks to be re-enforced by a few companies of infitutry. N. WILKINSON, Colonel, Cominandinq. HARRIS~3uEQ PA., October 17, 1864. (Received 2.20 p. in.) His Excellency A. LINcoLN: I have information, from sources which I have hitherto found reliable, that the euemy has arranged for a raid into Pennsylvania about the end of this month. Part of my information is, that Sheridans force has been reduced to 25,000, and that the Sixth and Nineteenth Corps are under orders to join General 0-rant; that, although nominally at Strasburg, Sheridans forces are at Winchester and l3erryville; that there is a rebel force near the railroad, independent of Mosby. I have little doubt a serions threat, much more a raid into Pennsylvania in this month, would be followed by serious disaster. ~ notice that the Secretary of War is absent or I would go to Washington to-day. Will you please to telegraph me to-day on the subject as part of my infor- mation you know to be correct or error. 1 propose to go to Washing Page 393 CrTAP. LV.] CORRESPONDEXCE, ETC.ITNION, 393 toll in reference to the subject to-morrow or next (lay. In the mean- time, if my information is at all correct, vigorous measures should at once be taken. A. G. CIJRTJN, Uoreru or. WASHINGTON, I). C., October 17, 1864. (~overnor A. G. CTTRTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.: Your information is erroneous. No part of Sheridans force has left him, except by expiration of terms of service. I think there is not much dangr of a raid into Pennsylvania. A. LINCOLN. WAR DEPARTMENT, lVashinqton, October 17, 186410 p. rn. (Received 9.30 a. in. 18th.) lion. Eiwix M. STANTON, Port Monroe: General Sheridan, who came to-day to see General ilalleck, reporte(l to me personally that the rebel armylately under Early, but now appar- ently under Longstreethaving appeared in the vicinity of Strasburg, his forces moved to attack them on Saturday. Crook, who had the advance, found the rebels drawn up in four lines of battle, but upon his charging them they broke and withdrew in disorder, without giving o~)])ortunity for serious conflict. Sheridan thinks they are retreating again up the Valley. C. A. I)ANA. WASHINGTON, October 17, 186412.~0 p. m. Lieutenant-Gei icral Gu ANT. City Point: General Sheridan has just been here. He has not yet fully decided about the Man assas road, but will do so in a day or two. He has gone back, with Colonels Alexander and Thom, to make a fuller reconnais- sance. Thomas thinks Shermans movements favorable for cutting off Hood. Nothing wh& tever from General Itosecrans. U. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of A~taff RECTORTOWN, VA., October 1,, 1864. (Received 2 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR, Chief Of AStaff~: There is a rumor here that Mosby is collecting his force beyond Middleburg for a raid into Marylaiid. Inform Ludlam, an(i give him such fiwce as you can to meet it. C. (5. AUGUR, Major- General. (Copy to commanding officer at Muddy Branch; General Stevenson, Harpers Ferry; General Tyler, Relay House. Page 394 .m4 OPEL~AT1ONS ]N N. VA., W. VA., MI)., ANI) IA. Cr~AP. L\. ii wits. I )Er.xnIINJENp (I NV ASh l4OTON. 22u A ii~ v ( oi~rs, (htoher 1;~ 1~G I. kectorto U)) GENERAL: Dispatch arrived. Orders will he complied with. Will report this p. m. Respectfully, ~ (Vilief of A~tUfJ 011(1 1 SShStU at A (l)/(ta/)t-Ge/)eral. II DQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHI.NO-T( )N, 22u ARMY CdRPS, October 17, 1864. Maor-({eneral AvwR, keetortowa Mosby is reported, with 200 or 300 ineii, on or near l3raddock road, south of Fairfax Station. Numbers probably exaggerated. rf~1j5 may account for Mosbys disappearaice from your vicinity. Ludlam has been notified, aiid that portion of the First New Hampshire here marches to join him this avening. His line will be aml)ly stron~. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chif ol St(4/~ (U) (1 A UP81(0/ t Adjat(Ott- (h/) crc 1. 11T~QRS. I)EPARTMENT OF WAS1JINUTON, 221) ARMY (ORPS, October 17, 1SbiS /). m. Major-( ci icra I AFO-UR, kecto rto wn GENERAL: It is reported that Mosby has driven in Lazelles pickets and is moving 011 Annandale and Fort Buffalo, camps of the Sixteenth and Thirteenth, with 600 men. The miumber must be exaggerated. Infantry has already moved from I)e Russys line to Buftblo, and I have ordered Slough to send at once the Fifth Wisconsin to Annaii- dale. I shall report such information as I receive. Respectfully. J. Ii. TAYLOR, Chief of ~t aff (/ ud AI,.vu,ta at Adj )t tan t- (den era 1. l~ALT1MoRE, October 1?, 1864. (Received (; p. in.) Major-General Au(wR: In view of your telegram to General Tyler, can you expedite the remounting and forwarding of the First Delaware Cavalry to General Tyler ~ It was sent yesterday to Washinoton to be remounted. SAML. B. LAWRENCE Page 395 CHAP. EN. (()RRESPONI )1N( E, EF( UNION. 895 IIDoIUK I)1;PA1~T\I1 NT 01 XXASi[1N(~TON. 221) ARMY ConPs, A SSi~t(( Ut Adj a taut- (~Yu ci-al, I}altiiitore The First Delaware arrived here to-(lay, not yesterday. It has been assigned to duty iii this department. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief ot Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. RELAY HOUSE, October 17, 1864. (Received 4.10 p. in.) M~j. Gen. C. C. YUGITR Ilectortown: Your dispatch received, and information sent to my cavalry. Where is Ludlam to be found! I will oive him all the assistance I can, which will be very light. Please keep me posted, and we will gladly put in our best efforts. E. B. TYLER. IIDQES. I)EPAPTMENT OF WASHIN(ii7ON, 221) ARMY C& RPS, October 17, 1864. Colonel GAMBLE, - Comm a a dinq Cam]) A~t() aentan: COLONEL: I am directed to instruct you, iii ease the First i)elaware Cavalry has not arrived on reception ot this, to proceed to arm and e(luil) the First New Hampshire Cavalry as SOOII as possible. All officers that can be obtaiiied will be sent you. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. II. RAYMONI), Assjstant A djntant- General. HTW2ES. I)E1~ARTMENT OF XXASHINGToN, 221) ARMY CORPS, October 17,1864. Col. NXJLLTAM GAMBLE, Comm andnu~ Camp Ston ~m an COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that as soon as the First New i-Ianipshire Cavalry is ready to move, you send it to Muddy Branch, giving orders to the commanding officer to report on his arrival for duty t6 Major Ludlam, Eighth Illinois Cavalry. Report its departure and strength to these headquarters. Very respectfully, cob )nel, your most obedient servant, J. 11. TAYLOR, Cli jef of Sta if and A ssistan t Adja tant- General. l)ARNESTOwN, October 17, 1864. (Received 4.20 p. in.) Lieutenant-Colonel TAYLOR, Chief dV Staff, & e.:, COLONEL: Have arrived safe. Nothing this side of the Potomac. Shall picket as far as possible on the river this evening. The horses and men, being new, arc nearly worn out. Very respectfully, & c., i. I). LITi)LAINI Page 396 396 OPERATIC)N~ IN N. VA., W. VA~. MI)., ANT) PA. [(TrAP. LV. IIDQR8. i)EPARiIMENT 01 WASIII]NO{FOiN, 221) XIU4Y CO1WS, October 1;; I5GT~ P. Rriga(lier-General I )E Rvssv, Comm (U) dinq i)iriNion GENERAL: Your dispatch~ received. I have telegraphed Geiteral Slough to send at once 500 infantry to Annaudale. A small infantry force at either place, Annandale or Buffalo, will 1)e sufficient to (hive off Mosby, who cannot have 100 ineit oeiieral I am, ~ , very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. TAYLOR, (2k nj 0/ rS1taft (0? (1 A ~8?St()fl t A (oUt (I flt- 6Yfl era!. B EA 1)QVA 1~ TERS CAVALRY Bin (4A1)E, A (flu Fort Th~ffalo, 1(1., October 17, 1564. Brigadier-General BE ItUSSY, Common dinq Thrision, Aea r Fo ,t Corcoran. I a. GENERAL: In reply to your verbal niessage by the messenger sent you, I have the honor to infoim ~ on that the disposition suggeste(l by you has already been in ide 1 i eceive(1 about half an hour since a message from Captain Schucidem, commanding at Ann andale, to the effect that a large force of ( mvihv, Cstimate(i at about 400 to ~00, had been seen in his vicinit~ , his 1)Icket-posts had been driven in, & c. He says that he will do his best to hold his stockade. Mosby was in Fair- fax Court-House this altunoon 1(1 it is believed had a large force with him. Another messenger just arrived from Anuiandale. Captain Schneider again has reported that a large force of the enemys cavalry are about him. I recommend that Annandale 1)c re-enforced as soon as l)Ossible. I will send half a squadron to Annandale at once Ironi here. I recommend that a company of infantry be sent here to supply their l)lace. But I can hold this point, I think, against everything that l\Iosby has. I will have 150 mcii left here. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Al. LAZELLE, Col. ASixteen th New Ion Vol. Cavalry, Corn d~j. Cavalry I~rjgade. HEADQUARTERS BE liussvs BIVISION, Near Fort Coreoran, ITa., October 17, 1864. Col. H. lxi. LAZELLE, Commanding Cavalry llrigade: COLONEL: I am directed by Brigadier-General Be Russy to say that the verbal message delivered him by an orderly was presumed by him to be from a staff officer of your command, he not knowing at the time that you were in command in person at that- post. He imlne(hiately ordered 300 infantry of his comman(l to your support at Fort Buffalo. These troops will be returned to this command as soon as their services can be (lispensed with. I forward herewith a commumeationt just received from Lient. Col. J. H. Taylor, chief of staff and assistant adjutant- general, headquarters Departuiem it of Washington, for your information. I am, very respectfully, your oi)edient servant, THOS. THOMPSON, Captain. 091(1 ;tssistant Adjutant- General. - Not found. See T:iylor to lie Evrssy, 5 p. rn., second. (talc Page 397 CHAP. LV.4 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 397 ALEXANDR1A~ \A., October 17, 1~6i 2.25 p. ut. (Received 4 p. in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAE~ i)E 1~T. OF WASHINGTON SIR: About 200 rebel cavalry are reported as moving down toward Burkes Statioii by the rear of Fairfax Station. Respectfully, JN() P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General. ALEXANInI IA, October 17, 1(564. (Received 5 l~ in.) ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENFA{AL DEPT. OF WASHINGTON Colonel Barnes, at Fairfax Station, has satisfied himself that 200 or :~OO rebel cavalry are now south of him near Braddock road. The tele- graph line is not working beyond Manassas. Have you any cavalry to send out in direction of Burkes ~ Anticipating Mosbys next appear- ance at this end of the line I have strengthened it very much. Respectfully. J NO. P. SLOUGH, I; rigad~er- General. HD& ns. L)EPARFMENT 01 X\ASHINGTON. 22D ARMY CORPS, October 17, 18G4. Brigadier-General SLOu~ii. Military Governor 0/ Alexandria 1)ispatcli received. There is no cavalry to send. Notit~ Lazelle, at Falls Church, that he may not be surprised. Your infantry certainly is strong enough to hold any force of Mosbys in check. I shall endeavor to communicate with General Augur and ask what cavalry may be~sent in pursuit. Resl)ecttully. I II. TAYLOR, (Ide! 0/ Staff and Asidstant Adjutant- General. 1I1)(~1Z5. I)EPARTMENT (4 \ATASHINGTON, 22D Anivuv CoRPS, October 17, 1~G1 ~S j. m. 8ri~adicr-& icucial SLOUGH, Alexandrw GENERAL: Mosbv has driven in Laxelles pickets. Send Wells cav- aIry, if any is in Alexandria. to Lazelle ,and let the Fifth Wisconsin move rapidly to Annandale. Dc Russy sends infantry to Fort Buffalo. Be pleased to expedite the movement as much as possible Respectfully. (hiet o/ Staff and As~-J~tant Adjutant- General Page 398 398 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD, AND PA. rcIiAr. LV. ALEXANDE IA. October 1~, lk+i1O.i() j). in. (Rcceive(1 ItO.25 p. iii.) Col. J. II. TAYLOR. Chief of iSta~/t and As4. A/jt. (ien., Hdqr~. Dept. o/ Wai~hinyton COLONEL: The Fifth Wjscoi~sju started at 9 oclock for Annandale. Captain Lusk~s cavalry started about 7 in the direction of MOSI)y. My railroad guard I think good for the protectioii of the railroa(l, Respectfully. JINO. P. SLOJTUI-i, 13 ri (Ja(1 icr- G(~P ~ia 1 of I ama t(cr~. XEEXANIXR I A, (h-jo/wv I ;, 161. I{eceive(l 7.30 ii. iii.) Colonel TAYLOR. Cbie/~ 0/ & aft: COLONEL: it is reporte(1 that MoSby with about 800 men are in the vicinity of Burkes Station this afternoon. rplley are ou the l3raddock road. We have sent what cavalry we have to look after them. W. W. WINSHIP, C~({pt(I in an .1 Acting Prorost-Mar8llal- General. HEAiDQVAuTERS CAVALRY BRIUAI)E, Xea Fort iluffa to, Va., October 17, 1861. Lent. Col. J. ii. TAYLOR, Chief of Statf and Assistant A djutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that an alarm, to the effect that a large force of Mosbys cavalry, reported by Captain Schneider, commandiii g stockade at Annandale,as about 400, and that they are now at Annandale, exists at the time of present writing, S p. m. I have sent forty men from here to that point, all that cart be spared. This will leave the effective strength here about 130 men, and make it at Annandale 115 men. I have sent General iDe iRussy word of these (lispositions. This place can be held against all that Mosby has with our present force and information. Very respectfully, your abed I ei it servant. 11.. M. LA/JELLE, Cot. i~1ixteeutii Yew lork 1 ot. Cavalry, Comb. Cara try Brigade. ~\A8HJN~TON, October 17. .i~Ui.1O. i() a. ni. Rrii~,. Ccii. J. I). STEVENSON, 1Iarpers Perry. W. 1 a. C unmunicate your wants to Generals Sb cii dan and Cr4 ~ok. rp11 (W ~ imist give you escorts. There are 110 troops here to sen(l ~Ofl. illaj() r- Gc,4(r(( I and (Ii WI 0.1 i~ta/1 Page 399 CHAP. LVI CORRESPONDENCE. ETCUNION. 399 \IAt~TIN8~~I7l1G, 0ctohcr 17, i8G4. B1i0adier~(ieiJeral ~STEVEN80IN GENERAL: Major Tailman, of (jencial Merritts stalt who left the front yesterday morning, just arrived, and reports that on the 15th General Sheridan started for a visit to General Augur, takino- with him Merritts division. On the L ont Royal road, l)etweell Strasburg and I~iedmont road, he captured four guns, a small wagon train, and some prisoners~ number not known. (olonel Wells body has just arrived. General Deviii, with his brigade, made a reconnaissance on Friday morn- mo and ascertained that the enemy occupied Fishers Hill and Stras- burg, and that they had been re-enforced only by Kersitaws division. WM. II. SEWARD, llriqadier- Genera I. )lA RI INSTIl TR( ~, Oetobei Ii, 1SbiI. General STEVENSoN: A train of about 700 wagons just arrived, with guar(l of 600 inhintry; 110 cavalry. I send out train of 300 wagons in the morning, for which I have escort of 300 infantry and 450 cavalry, besides the cavalry re- (eived from you Saturday. Next train will be very large. Shall I retain your cavalry to go with it, or shall I send them with the rest~ W. H. SEWARI), Brigadier- General. S1mcIAI~ OwnERs, IiLDQRS. DEPARTMENT ov WEST ViRGINIA, No. 196. Near ilfiddietown, V((., October 17, 18G1. 1. Capt. James Gilliss, assistant quartermaster, U. S. Army, having reported at these headquarters for assignment in the Artillery Brigade of this command, in obedience to orders from headquarters Middle Military Division, will report at once to Capt. H. A. Du Pont, Fifth IT. S. Artillery, for duty as assistant quartermaster of the Artillery Brigade. 2. Battery A, First West Virginia Artillery, Capt. George Furst, will proceed by rail from Harpers Ferry, W. Va., to Parkersburg, W. Va., and from thence by water to Charleston, XV. Va., where the corn- nianding officer of the battery will report to Col. J. H. Oley, Seventh West Virginia Cavalry, commanding First Separate Brigade. There will be no delay in the execution of this order. Time quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transpor- tation. By order of Bmevet Major-General Crook: P. 0. BIER, Assistant Adjutant- General. (~I7MmEnLAND, October 17, iRUI. Brevet Major-General CROoK. Corn ma 11(1 big ])epartnteut (4 West VirgTh ia i have received orders from General Sheridan to take command of all dismounted cavalry and establish reitiount camp at Hagerstown. Shall 1 take the three dismounted regimemmP here to F[agerstown~ If not, I wish to remain with the to complete orgaiiization. N\iIl not take moore thami eight days. A. N. I)UFFiB Page 400 400 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. ~CHAP. LV. 8ALTLXIOIIE, MD., October 17, 186.1. General TOWNSEND, A88istaflt Adjntaut- General. Washington ,D. (I.: The One hundr~d and sixteenth and One hundred and eighteenth 15. S2 Colored Troops have arrived, and arrangements have been made to equip them and forward them without delay to City Point. SAML. 13. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MIDDLE , c-nm AnMY CoRPS 1)EPARTMENT Er Baltimore, lid., October 17, 1161. Brig. Gen. E. 13. TYLER, Relay Honse, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad I have ordered three companies infantry from Fort Mdllenry to report to yon at Relay House. They will go as soon as train is ready. I am doing all I can. Have asked General Augur to hurry up your cavalry which is at his depot. SAME. B. LAWRENCE. 1ID(~R5. Mi Dii) V~I DEPARTMENT, EIc-I1rn ARMY Con PS, Baltimore, lId., October 17, 1861. Bvt. Brig. (ieil. XV. W. IMIORRls, Conima ndrng Ogleer Second ASeparate Brigade, Jiort IJcffenry: Send three colnl)alnes Fifth Massachusetts Militia to report to Brig. Gen. E. 13. Tyler, at the Relay House, at once. Issue forty rounds ammunition and three days rations. A train is or(lere(l to be at the railroad crossing near the fort as soon as possible. By command of Major-General Wallace: SAME. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjnta ut- General. BALri 3D) Ri;, Mm, October 17, 1864. Brigadier-General Eoci~woo~, Commanding Officer Third Jlriqa de: GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that there is urgent neces- sity for more mounted men in General Tylers district, and to request, you to issne or(lers to have the company of inounteol int~ntry, Company K, One hundred and ninety-fourth I ~ennsylva nia 4)1111 itecis, sent here at once, and send them to) report to General Tyler as soon as they arrive. It is the generals intention to forni a cavalry company of the re-enlisteol men of the First Eastern Shore Maryland Nolunteers. By bringing up your com~)any now they can probably be of some service, and will then be where they can turn ox-er the horses an(I equipments to the coni- pany designated when their term of service expires. General Augur has just telegraphed that Mosby is moving forward again, and Tyler is very weak in cavalryhis dismounted men being yet in Wa shiii gton get- ting their horses. Will you please give the necessary orders to have company of mounte(l infantry brought Ul) at once. I will be where th Page 401 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 401 orderly can find me all night, and any orders you may desire me to give I will attend to. Can you telegraph to Salisbury, so that they can come up via train to-morrow ~ Respectfully, your obedient servant, SAME. U LAWRENCE, A~si~tw,tt A (on tan t- General. BALInioni:, Mm. October 17, 186i(L~Op. rn. Colonel LAWRENCE: I will immediately issue the proper orders for bringing up Company K, One hundred and ninety-fourth Pennsylvania, to this city, and forward them to Geueral Tyler. I think it entirely impossible to get them here to-morrow, as a large number of them are as much as twenty-five miles beyond Salisbury. Twill immediately telegraph (lown, and send down my quartermaster to arrange the transportation and look out for the public property. We may perhaps get them on to-morrow night. Respectfully, & c., HENRY II. LOCI(WOOD, Brigadier- Get eral. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SIJSQUEIIANNA, No. 61. Chum bersburg, Pa., October 17, 1864. Col. Thomas S. Mather, Second Regiment Illinois Light Artillery, is hereby appointed acting assistant inspector-general of the Depart- ment of the Susquehanna. By command of Major-General Couch: JINO. S. SCHULTZJE, Assistant Adjutant- (Jencral. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 330. 5 Washington, October 17. 1861. * * * * * * * 60. The First Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps, now on duty, under the command of Byt. Maj. Gen. J. C. Robinson, commanding District of Albany, N. Y., will proceed as soon as practicable to Elmira, N. Y., and there report for duty to the commanding officer camp of rebel pris- oners. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. 1). TOWNSENI), Assistant Adjutant- Genci-al. ACTG. AssT. PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERALS OFFICE, Detroit, illicit., October 17, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. DIX, U. S. Army: SIR: Major ilayner, additional aide-dc-camp on your staff, called on me yesterday in relation to the object of his visit to Canada. I~ermnit me to say that I do not think there is any intention by rebel refugees in Canada to attempt any other depredations on the northern lakes; at least, I hear of none. The persons who were concerned in the Philo 26 R RVOL XLIII~ PT I Page 402 402 OPERATiONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. Parsons case have, I believe, mostly gone to Bermuda. via Halifax and I think there is a wholesome dread of the Canadian authorities. The number of rebels reported by your informant is very much exaggerated. I (10 miot believe that 200 ret)els could be raised in Canada for any enterprise. There may be a larger number there, bitt they are of the class who could not be prevailed upon to engage in anything involving danger or a violation of Canadian law. The person who gave me the information relative to the intention of the piratical party that cap- tured the Philo Parsons was sent to Washington under a s~fe conduct, where he had an interview with the Secretary of State. He has just returned, and I have it in contemplation to employ him to travel about at different I)oints iii Canada, reportn~g to inc all matters that will be interesting to the (lovernmnent. It is probal)le that it will i)C more econoniical for the Government in the end. At the request of the Sec- retary of State the amnesty oath has beemi administered to hint. I am, very res~)ectfully, your obedient servant, B. H. HILL, Licut. Col., U. & Army, Actg. As8t. Provo~t-Marsha1-General. CITY I~oINT, VA.. October 18, 18641.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: General Sheridan should follow and break up Longstrects force if he can, and either employ all tite force the enemy now have in the Valley, or send his surplus forces here. With the Sixth Corps and one (hivision of cavalry, I think my lines could be closed imp to the Appo- mattox above Petersburg and the Danville road cut. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. RECTORTOWN, October 18, 186$i. (Via Manassas. Received 11.05 a. in.) Col. J. H. TAYLOR: I have sent the Eighth Illinois dowit through Centervihle to find Mosbys force. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF V~ASHJNGTON, 221) Auxiv Conps, October 18, 1864. Major-General AUGUR, Rectortown: GENERAL: Mosby passed through Falls Church in the direction of Vienna last eveniiig. Ludiam Imas been notified, and 195 more men forwarded to Imim this moritimmg. His himte is strong enough. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of AS1taff an(t Assistant Adjutant- General Page 403 CH~. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 403 HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 92D ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. M~jor-General AUGUR, Rectortown: GENERAL: There are at Falls Church, or in vicinity, 265 effective men of the Sixteenth and Thirteenth New York Cavalry. Lazelles resignation has been this day accepted. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Stafl~ and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON. 22D ARMY CORPS, Major LUDLAM, October 18, 1864. Commanding Detachment, near ]Jliuddy Branch: MAJOR: Major Andrews, First New Hampshire Cavalry, marches from Camp Stoneman at 6.45 a. iii. this day with 135 officers and men, to report for duty to you. Telegraph me the number of officers and men belonging to the Eighth Illinois Cavalry with yon. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjatant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, Major LUDLAM, Washington, D. C., October 18, 1864. Commanding at Muddy Branch: MAJOR: Let Youngs Island be examined; it is reported that there are guerrillas secreted on it. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22n ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. Major LUDLAM, Commanding near Muddy Branch: Mosby passed through Falls Church last evening toward Vienna, with perhaps 250 men. The Eighth Illinois Cavalry has been detached from Rectortown in pursuit. J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant A ~jut ant- General. MUDDY BRANCH, October 18, 1864. (Received 4.30 p. in.) Lieut. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff: I have three officers besides quartermaster and commissary and myself. Everything qniet. Shall picket the whole line on river to-night. Have sent Captain Pierce, with twenty nien, to Youngs Island. Very respectfully, J. D. LUDLAM, Major, Commanding Page 404 404 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. MUDDY BRANCH, October 18, 1864. (Received 8.20 p. in.) Col. J. H. TAYLOR, (Jhief of Staff, Twenty-second Army Corps COLONEL: The detachment of the First NeWT hampshire Cavalry arrived at~ p. in., and are now in my camp. Will move up to the river early in the morning. Will look out for Mosby in this vicinity. Respectfully, yours, J. I). LUDLAM, Major, Commanding. HDQRS. 1)EPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 221) Amzixmy Coups, October 18 1864. Major LUDLAM, Commanding near Muddy Branch: Dispatch received. You do not give the number of enlisted men of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry with you. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. MUDDY BRANCH October 18, 1864. Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff, Twenty-second Army Corps: COLONEL: Have in Company A thirty-five enlisted men. Can raise about forty besides, belonging to the companies with Major Waite. Very respectfully, J. D. LUI)LAM, Major, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 18, 1864. Brigadier-General SLOUGH, Military Gorernor of Alexandria: GENERAL: What are the reports from Annandale and vicinity this morning ~ Respectfully, J. II. TAYJA)R, Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 18, 1864. (Received ii a. in.) Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: The last news from Ailnandale was at 2 oclock; all then quiet. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGh, Brigadier- General Page 405 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 405 ALEXANDRiA, VA.. October 18, 1864. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, (Received 1 p. in.) Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: Captain Lusk has returned from Fort Buffalo, and reports all (luiet. Mosby gone to Vienna. One of Lazelles pickets was cap- tured, and is reported killed after capture. The telegraph line is now workiiig to iRectortown. Respectf ally, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY GOVERNOR, Alexandria, Va., October 18, 1864. (Received 7.40 p. in.) Maj. Gen. C. C. AUGUR, Commanding Department, Rector town, Va. GENERAL: The civilians referred to in your dispatch* are part kept, in a very ~omfortable condition, in one of our vacant court-martial rOon7Is; the others are in a comfortable room by themselves, near the jailers quarters, in the slave-pen prison. Several of them are there by their own choice. All are allowed such comforts as they or their friends desire. They arc treated kindly and gentlemanly and make 110 coin- plaint. They are, on the whole, much better located and provided fore than the major-general commanding the department is at Rectortown. Respectfully, JNO. P. SLOUGH, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. ALEXANDRIA October Colonel TAYLOR, 1864I p. m. Chief of kSThff: COLONEL: The cavalry sent out last night have returned. They report that the guerrillas left the vicinity of Falls Church about 2 oclock last night, after capturing two of the home guards of that point and a small ~cket-post. The two citizens were shot after being captured. W. W. WINSHIP, Captain, & c. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Falls Church, Va., October 18, 1864. Brigadier-General l)E HUSSY, Corn man ding Dir ision, Near Fort Corcoran, Va.: GENERAL: Of the 300 infantry which reported to me, by your order, last night, between 1 and 2 a. in., I have this morning directed the officer in command to send 100 men and complement of officers to the stockade at Annandale, and have retained 100 men and a complement ot officers here until to-ruorrow~ the re are mainder directed to return and report to you. I would be pleased to retain the 100 men at An- nandale until the return of the detachment now at White Plains or until the station can be otherwise re-enforced by troops from the Cay- Not found Page 406 406 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. airy Brigade. As the cavalry force at present at the stockade is but seventy men, and with the small ftrce habitually here, it is impossible to send re-enforcements in case of an attack. This would be about a week or ten days. Very res~)ectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Corn dg. Cavalry Brigade. TIEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Fort Buffalo, Va., October 18, 1864. Capt. JAMES H. WADE, Commanding Detachment Heavy Artillery: CAPTAIN: After leaving 100 mcii and a complement of officers at this camp, you will send 100 mcii from your command, with a proper com- plement of officers, to Annaudale, to report on their arrival there to Capt. J. Schneider, Sixteenth New York Cavalry. The balance of your detachment remaining after you have made these details you will please (lirect to report without delay to Brigadier-General De Ilussy, coin- manding division, at Fort Corcoran, as their services here are no longer required. Very respectfully, your obedient servant II. M. LAZELLE, Col. Sixteenth New York Vol. Cavalry, Gomdg. Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Cedar Creek, Va., October 18, 1864. Brigadier-General GROvER, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a copy of an order from head- quarters directing a reconnaissance to be made in our ft-out to-morrow. The general commanding directs that you make this reconnaissance with three of your best brigades, moving punctually at daybreak. As (lirected in the inclosed instructions from hcadquarters~ you will push the reconnaissance far enough to the front to ascertain if the enemy is still on the line of Fishers Hill in force. Having done so, you will return. Frequent reports must be sent, as the reconnaissance pro- gresses, to these headquarters. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, DUNCAN S. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indosurel HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, October 18, 1864. Brevet Major-General EMORY, Commanding Nineteenth Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you send out a reconnaissance in your front at daylight in the morning, or as soon thereafter as the fog will permit of objects being~clearly distinguished. The cavalry is ordered to make a reconnaissance on the right at th Page 407 CHAP LY.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 407 same time. The object is to ascertain if the enemy is still ait the line of Fishers Hill in force, and the general desires the troops l)e pnshe(i far enough to the front to accomplish this object. Very respectfully, general, yonr obedient servant, C. KINGSBUIRY, Jm, Assistant Adjutai t- General. 1-IEADQUARTERS CAVALIriI, MIDDLE MiLITARY DIVISION, October 18 1$Gj General MERRiTT: GE~EEAL: The chief of cavalry desires you to seli(l out a reconnns sance of one brigade, without artillery, to-morrow morning at da~ light or as soon after as the fog will permit objects to be distinctly seen hoin our right toward the enemys left, for the purpose of ascertaimn if the enemy is still in force on Fishers Hill. General Torbert tlunks you had better direct them to go by the Back roa(l. General Emory sen(ls out a force in his front at the same time and for the same purpose Ilax e the brigade push forward far enough to aecolnl)lish the object, but not to fight infantry. Very respectfully, & e., WM. HUSSELL, Jm, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. DIST. OF HARPERS FERRY, No. 20. flarpers Ferry, XV. Va., October 18, 18G4. It appearing to the commanding general that in the recent raids made by the rebels into the county of Berkeley, State of West Virgina, a large nnmber 4f loyal citizens were wantonly plundered by rebel officers and soldiers because of their attachnuent for and fidelity to the Government of the United States, and it also appearing that a large number of citizens of Berkeley County are hostile to the Govern- ment of the United States, iu sympathy with and giving aid and com- fort to these l)lnnderers of citizens because of their fidelity to the Gov- eminent of the United States, as a merited punishment to such disloyal citizens, for their disregard of their obligations to their Government and countenancing these outrages of the public enemy, it is ordered that the commanding general of the post of Martinsburg organize a military board of inquiry and assessment~, whose duty it shall be to ascertain the loss of each individual loyal citizen of the county of Berkeley by the seizure or destruction of his or her property by the rebels, and when so ascertained to assess the whole amount against the disloyal property holders of the said county of Berkeley, which said assessment shall be collected by proper military orders, and, when so collected. shall be (luly paid over to the several loyal citizens who shall be found to have sustained losses as above set forth. The commanding general assures all I)arties concerned that he will invariably assess all losses sustained by loyal citizens at the hands of the rebels against the property of the (lisloyal sympathizers whenever the necessity so to do may arise. By order of Brigadier-General Stevenson: S. F. ADAMS, Aetinq Assista at Adjutant- General Page 408 408 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CUMBERLAND, Mn., October 18, 1864. Brevet Major-General CROOK, (Via Harrisburg.) Corn fly. Department of West I ~iryin ja, ]liijddietown, Va.: General Dnffi& ~ requests permission to take all of his staff with him except the mustering and ordnance officers. ROBT. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant. General. JIEADQIiAJITERS 1)EPARTMENT OF WEST VIRGINIA IX ear Cedar Creek, Va., October [18], 1864. Capt. R. P. KENNEDY, Assistant Ad) ata at- General. Cum berlan fi, Aid.: Brigadier-General Duffi6 can take with him his staff belonging to the cavalry; those belonging to the infantry must report to their com- man ds. By order of Brevet Major-General Crook: P. 0. BIER, Captain and A ssistant Adjutant- General. hEADQUARTERS, (nberland, Md., October 18, 1864. Brig. Gen. A. N. DUFFI~: I received a telegraTn from Brevet Major-General Crook, comm and- ing department, last night, informing me that you had been ordered to Ha gerstow-n, Md., and directing me to have the (lisluounted men iiow at Cumberland mounted and armed as rapidly as pdssible. Will you advise me, at your eam-liest convenience, the present condition of the command ~ What number of serviceable horses are now on hand, and how many more are required ~ How many men are properly mounted and equipped, and how many are yet to be equipped ~ Whether the requisition for ordnance stores has been forwarded, and when; and whether they are now in transition to this place~ If so, from what point were they shipped, and at what date l Also any other information on the subject that may be of service to me in executing the order of the general conunanding. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. iF. KELLEY. HEADQUARTERS, Lieutenant DONOHOR, Cuntberland, October 18, 1864. AiXth West Virginia Im~fantry: You will proceed with your detachment, supplied with ten days rations, on board the canal-boat in waiting, and patrol the canal from Oldtow-n to a point opposite Paw Paw. You will keep your men nuder cover as much as possible, in order to prevent the thieves and robbers from knowing that there are armed men on board the boat. You will frequently move at night, and especially if there are large numbers o Page 409 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 409 boats moving, ill order to convoy them safely past that portion of the country von are expected to protect. Keep in communication with Capt. C. J. Harrison, commanding at Sonth Branch, also communicate with Capt. P. B. Petrie, commanding iron-clad cars at Paw Paw, or at other points as may be most convenient. You will enforce strict dis- cipline in the command, and not suffer your men to interfere with the citizens or their property, and keep these headquarters fully advised from time to time of your movements. By order of Brevet Major-General Kelley: C. A. FREEMAN, L ieuten ant and A ctinq A ~sista n t A (ijutant- General. General TOWNSEND, TASHINGTON, D. C., October 18, 1864. Assistant Adjuta nt- Gen eral: Lest my appearance in this city without l)ermission lit-st obtained should snrprise you, I called to report and explain that 1 am here in comI)liance with the request of the President. Respectfully, LEW. WALLACE, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ H~qits. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 247. Chambersburg. Pa., October 18. 1864. * - * * , * * 3. Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Rowley, U. S. Volunteers, commanding Monongahela District, will, without delay, send Capt. Thomas Ii. Bates, Company A, First Regiment New York Artillery, with one section of his battery and three companies of the First Battalion, 100-days Penn- sylvania Volunteevs, from Pittsburg to Chamnbersbnrg, Pa., with direc- tions to report to the assistant adjutant-general of the department for orders. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation by railroad. 4. Capt. George D. Stroud,Jndependent Mounted Coumpany 100-days Penn sylvania Volunteers, will proceed without delay with his company from Easton, Pa,, to Philadelphia, and report to the military commander of that place. to be mustered out of the U. S. service. The Government property in the possession of the company will be transfeired to the officers in charge of the respective departmnents at Philadelphia, Pa. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transporta- tion. 5. Capt. E. B. Sanno, Independent Mounted Company 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed without (lelay with his coin pany from Pittsburg to Harrisburg, Pa., and report to the post commander at that place, to be mustered out of the U. S. service. The Govern- memit property in his possession will be transferred to the oftice;-s in charge of the respective departments at Harrisburg, Pa. Time quarter- masters department will furnish the necessary transl)ortation by rail- road. 0. Capt. B. Lambert, Independent Mounted Company 100-days Pennsylvania Volunteers, will proceed without delay with his compan Page 410 410 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. rX to Clian~bersbnrg, Pa., and report to the assistant adjutant-general of the (lepartlilent for orders. The quartermasters department wil fir iiish Hi e necessary transportation by railroad from B loom sburg, Pa. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Couch: JNO. S. SCITULTZE; Assistant Adjutant- General. CEDAR CREEK, VA., October 19, iRGIlO p. m. (Received 3 p. m. 20th.) Licut. Gen. 17. S. GRANT, (Jommcualing Armies of the ljnjted ASt0tC~ I have the honor to report that my army at Cedar Cicek was attacked this niorning before daylight and my left was turned an(1 driveli in confusion; in flict, most of the line was drix-en iii couftision, with the loss of twenty pieces of artillery. I hastened from Winchester, where I was on my return from Washington, and joined the army i)etween Middletown and Newtown, having been driven back about four miles. I here took the affair in hand and quickly united the corps, formed a compact line of battle just in time to repulse an attack of the enemys, which was handsomely (lone at about 1 p. m. At 3 p. in., after some changes of the cavalry from the left to the ii ~ht lank, I attacked with great vigor, driving and routing the enemy, capturing, according to last rel)orts, forty-three pieces of artillery and very umany prisoners. I (10 not yet know the number of my casualties or the losses of the enemy. Wagon trains, ambulances, and caissons, in laroe numbers, are in our possession. They also burned some of their trains. General Ramseur is a prisoner in our hands, severely, and perhaps mortally, wounded. I have to regiet the loss of General Bidwell, killed, and Generals Wright, Grover, and Itieketts, woumledWright si ightly wounded. Affairs at times looked badly, but by the gallantry of our brave officers and men disaster has been converted iiito a splendid vic- tory. Darkness again intervened to shut off greater results. I now oecuj)y Strasburg. As soon as obtained I will send you further par- ticulars. P. II. SHERIDAN. Major-Cen era 1. WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-C ENEf ALS OFFIcE Wash ia qtou, October 19, 18G4. Maj. Gen. P. II. ShERIDAN, 1. S. Xoluntcers, Corn ala ad iaq ]JLddie ill ii ita ry Dirision Sw: By direction of the Secretary of War, Ii have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the ordnance and ordnanee stQres, men- tioned in the inclosed list as having been received at the Washington Arsenal, and which were captured by a portion of your command, under Generals Merritt and Custer, in the recent brilliant operations in the Shenandoah Valley. The Secretary directs me to tender the thanks of the Department to all the officers an(l men concerned in those achieve ments, so fruitful of lasting benetit to the country. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. I). TOWNSEND, il ~s ista at A dja teat- Genera Page 411 CHAP. I~V.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 411 [liaclosure.] WASHINGTON ARSENAL, Washington, D. C., October 18, 1864 Colonel MAYNADI~R, Ia charge Ordnance Bureau, Washington, D. C.: SIR: The following is a list of captured ordnance stores, received yesterday from Lieutenant McKee, at Harpers Ferry, Va., viz: No. Article. Marks. 1 3-inch rifled gun No 32 Phumixyille, Pa. 2 do No 339 Pho~mx~ file, Pa. 3 12.pounders, smooth bore No 66 Revere Copper & Co. 4 3.inch rifled gun No 221 Plicanirville, Pa. 5 do No. 449 Phomix~ ifle, Pa. 6 do No 141 Phom;x~ ille, Pa. 7 do No. 109 Phcamxv;lle, Pa. 8 do No 185 Phcaa~xx ille, Pa. 9 do No 596 Phcenixvdle, Pa. 10 do No.194; Ihmnixville, Pa. 11 12.pounder. smooth No. 13; Cincinnati, Ohio 12 3.inch rifled gun No. 68; Phomixville, Pa. 13 do - Rebel, Rome, Ga. In addition to the above, there are 11 carriages and 9 caissons. Kos. 1, 2, 6, and 10 have each a card attached to them with the following inscription: Captured by the Third Division Cavalry, Brigadier-General Custer commanding, October 9, 1864, near Columbia Furnace, Shenandoah Valley. No list or invoice accompanied these stores, and the foregoiiig is all the information I can give concerning them. Your obedient servant, J. G. BENTON, Major of Ordnance, Commanding. IRECTORTOWN, VA., October 29, 18647.80 a. rn. (Received S a. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Heavy cannonading~ has been going on about Front Royal or Stras- burg since 5.30 this mornin g; it still continues. C. C. AUGUR, illajor- General. RECTORTOWN VA October 19, 18649.15 a. in. , ., (Received 11.15 a. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Chief of Staff The heavy artillery firing toward Strasburg has almost ceased; only an occasional gun is now heard. Fromthe direction of the sound there has been no falling back of our forces. C. C. AUGUR, Major- Genera Page 412 412 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. RECTORTOWTN, VA., October 19,. 18644 p. )n. Maj. Gem H. W. HALLECK, (Received 5 i~. in~) Chief of & aff: heavy cannonading has recoinineneed in the ValLey, and is now going on. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. IIECTORTOWN ~\ 4., October 19 1864 Col. J. H. TAYLOR: (Received 1 p. in.) Say to General McCallmn that as long as this road is kept open to Piedmont it will be undesirable to furnish any gnards for the other road. I do not regard it safe to diminish guards on this road, and there are no other troops in the department available for that purpose. If I give up Piedmont, 1 can spare 400 or 500 men now there; but that would not be sufficient to 9nard the railroad from Manassas to War- renton Junction. Show this to General Halleck. C. C. AUGuR, M~a~or- General. HDQR5. 1)EPARTMENT OF WAShINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 19, 18649 p. rn. Major-General AUGUR, Reetortowm GENERAL: All quiet. In the affair at Falls Church Mosby captured 4 privates, 1 couporal, and 1 horse, Sixteenth New York Cavalry; killed 1 of the home guards (colored) attempting to escape, and captured 1 white man of same organization (Reed), who, from all evidence I can find, was murdered after captnre. The Fifth Wi5con5in has been ordered to its corps, via lXlartinsbnrg. No sign as yet of the enemy on the upper line of Potomac. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief ~f Staff and Assistant Ad~tant-Generai. SPECIAL ORDERS, ?~ WAR I)EPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 354. Washinqton, October 19, 1864. * * * * - * 56. The order of October 13, 1864, from this Department, l)lacing the military governor of the District of Columbia in comman(l of the guards of the President, both cavalry and infantry, at the ~ Home, and directing the commanding officers of the detachments comprising those guards to report to Colonel Wisewell forthwith for their instructions. is hereby confirmed. By order of the Secretary of War: E. I). TOWNSEND, Assistant A djutant- General Page 413 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 413 SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CoRPS, No. 261. October 19, 1864. * * * * * * * 7. The six companies One hundred and eighty-ninth Regiment New York Volunteers, Col. William W, ilayt, now in this city, will proceed without delay to City Point, Va., and be reported on arrival to the commanding general Army of the Potomac for orders. The quarter- masters department will furnish the necessary transportation. * ~- * * * * * By command of Major-General Augur: C. 11. RAYMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MUDDY BRANCH, October 19, 1864. (Received 6.35 p. ii.) Lieut. Col. J. 11. TAYLOR, Chief of Stafl2 and Assistant Adjataut- General: COLONEL: I find Lieutenant-Colonel Knight, First lielaware Cav- alry, picketing Whites Ford and month of Monocacy. Vie telegraphed (4emmeral Tyler asking that the detachment expected of First Delaware Cavalry from Camp Stoneman be sent to him. If I picket the whole line I need them. Captain Pierce reports nothing on Youngs Island, anti says only three canal-boats have been burned during the whole excite- ment. Very respectfully, J. I). LUDLAM, M4ijor, Commanding Detachment. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF ~XASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CoRPS, October 19, 1864. Major LUDLAM, Commanding Detachmn cut at Muddy Branch: Dispatch received. You have more than 400 men, sufficient to picket to mouth of the Monocacy. The battalion of the First Delaware at (amp Stoneman has been assigned to duty in this department, and will report to you for orders as soon as it is icady to move. Inform Colonel Knight. Your picket-line should connect with his at the Monocacy. Respectfully, J. H. TAYLOR, Chief of 8tafl? and Assistant Adjutant- General. MUDDY BRANCH MD., October 19, lS61. (Received 5 p. in.) Lient. Col. J. II. TAYLOR, Chief of Stafi: Heavy firing has been heard continually since early morning in the direction of Winchester. Should think there was a heavy battle. Do you know whether there is ~ J. I). LI9DEAM, lit ajo r, Commanding Page 414 414 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, October 19, 186110.30 p. m. Brigadier-General SLOUGH, Miilitary Governor of. Alexandria: Jt is reported from Falls Church that a party (numbering about 200) of the enemy is at or in the vicinity of Fairfax Court- House. Your railroad guards should be on the alert. The Eighth Illinois Cavalry has been detached from Rectortown, and is in pursuit of Mosbys people. Respectfully, J. it. TAYLOR, Chief of Staff and Assistant A~jntant- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 19, 1864. (Received 7.20 p. in.) Colonel TAYLOR, Assistant A djnta itt- General: COLONEL: It is reported that fifty ouerrillas were near Falls Church this forenooii. The post at Accotink was tired on last night. Other- wise, all quiet. W. W. WJNSHIP, Captain. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Port Buffalo, Va., October 19, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. H. TAYLOR, Ch ief of. Staff and Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that as next senior officer to Col. H. M. Lazelle the command of the force of cavalry here has, on the receipt of his resignation, devolved upon me. The force of 400 men, mentioned in the report of October 17, left Annandale the same evening without making any demonstration at that point. One man who was on picket-post was taken prisoner while attempting to escape. About 2 a. m. on the morning of October 18 a force of Mosbys men, estimated at seventy-five, entered Falls Church village, halted at the church (brigade hospital), and, after breaking opemi the barn of Mr. Sines, a citizen who lives opposite, and taking therefrom five valuable horses, passed up the Alexandria and Lewinsville pike toward Vienna. The post at thej unction of the Lewinsville road with the pike, consist- ing of one corporal and three men of the Sixteenth New York Cav- alry, was captured, with one horse. A negro named Frank Brooks, belonging to the citizens home guard of the village, was shot dead while attempting to assist the picket in making a defense. Mr. J. B. Reed, a citizen and a member of the same guard, with one of his neoro employ~s, were taken prisoners at the same time. Mr. Reed was afterward brutally murdered by the party who captured him in a dense pine wood near Hunters Mill, and his body has been found and brought into his house. An attempt to kill the negro taken with Mr. Reed was also made. and the rebels, supposing himu dead, left hiiim in the woods. He escaped afterword, however, amid has but a slight wound in the head, with the loss of an ear, blo~rn oft by a 1)istOl shot. There is no doubt concerning the murder of Mr. Reed, as the surgeon wh Page 415 LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 415 has made an examination of the body states that the skull at the base of the brain is blown to atoms, and the flesh about the wound is filled with powder, as if the pistol had been l.la.ced close to the head. The negro who escaped brings infi)rmation that at or near Vienna the force which visited Falls Church was joined by a reserve party of 100 or more men. The officer commanding at Aiinandale states that the party which visited him numbered 600 men. Everything has been quiet here since the attack. Very resl)ecttully, your obedient servant, JOHN I3JItDSALL, JI((jor TIi iiteen th i\e a York Iolnnteei (Java lr~i. hEADQUARTERS CAVALRY ERIGADE, A ear lort Buffalo, Va., October 19, 18G4. Lient. Col. J. H. TAYLOR. Chief 0 Staff ou! Assistant Adjutant-General: COLONEL: I have the honor to report all quiet here since this morn- ings report. A force of rebels numbering about 200 men are reported this evening by a citizen in the vicinity of Fairfax Court-house. At the request of Colonel Lazelle, 100 infantry sent to this camp by Brigadier-General IDe hussy were retained by Colonel Lazelle at the Annan dale stockade, the force ot cavalry there not being sufficient for its l)rotection in case of an attack by a large oody of men. General Dc Russy has given his permission to allow those men to remain at the stockade until the return of our men from the front, if other troops cannot be su~)phied to take their places, and suggests that General Slougib military governor of Alexandria, might l)e able to send a force to relieve them. I would resl)ecthllly request that if this is considered to the interests of the service, the suggestion may be carried out, and Ceneral l)e Russys force returned. In consideration of the almost imightly depredations by l)arties of Mosbys men, I would suggest that a small intkntry force may be sent to Falls Church, to remain until the return of Colonel Gansevoorts party. TI~is,in my judgiueiit,is de- sirable toi the protection of the property and persons of loyal citizens in the village. With the limited number of men at present here, prompt assistance cannot be rendered them and protect the large amount at valuable Government property in camp; the nulnl)er is barely large enough for this. If infantry cannot be spared, I won 1(1 request that the force of the Lewinsville outpost may be, for the present, brought back to this camp. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~JOHN 131R1)SALL, ilajor Zilli irteenth New York Cara iry. Commanding. QUARTERMASTERS Bn JGADE~ Ca my R ae~-e-. liLa nass((s Gap Railroad, October 1 9 1861. (ileceived 10.20 a. in.) Brig. Gen. 1). II. ThiCKER, Chief Quartermaster We have cleared the woods on both sides of the track for a distance of ten miles, and I pronose to morrow to move ill) to the vicinity of Thoroughfare Gap. T. (I. WHYTAL Page 416 41(~ OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. ORDERS.] CEDAR CREEK, October 19, 18643 p. in. The entire line will advance. The Nineteenth Corps will move in connection with the Sixth Corps. The right of the Nineteenth will swing toward the left, so as to drive the enemy upon the pike. P. H. SHERiDAN, J1f((jO r- General. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Cedar Creek. October 19 1 Brevet Major.General EMORY, 864. Coin inandinq Nineteenth Army Corps GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you have the division of your corps now on the north side of Cedar Creek in rea(li- ness to move out and snpport the (livisiOli of your corps now in Stras- burg, at 5 oclock to-morrow morning. Very respectftilly, JAS. W. FORSYTH, Li eutena at- Colonel and Chief of AStaff. OCTOBER 19, 1864. Brigadier-General BIRGE, Co ni ma ailing Second 1i~uisioa: The general commanding directs that you hold your command in readiness to move to the support of the First Division of this corps, now at Strasburg, at 5 a. m. to-morrow. Respectfully, & c., DUNCAN S. WALKE[~, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SECOND 1)IV., 19TH ARMY CORPS, No. 138k. Cedar Creek, Va., October 19, 1864. 1. Col. T. XV. Porter, Fourteenth Maine Volunteers, is hereby as- signed to the command of the First Brigade, Second Division, Nine- teenth Army Corps. * * By command of Brigadier-General Birge: E. A. FISKE, Capta in, Thirtieth Massachusetts Veteran Volunteers, Acting A ide-de- Camp, Acting Assistant A i( jntaat- General. HARPERS FERRY, W VA October 19 Hon. E. M. STANTON: . ., ,1861l1 a. m. Before daylight this morning heavy cannonading in the (hirection of Strasburg, continning with out intermission until this hon rmnuch heavier, apparently, than during the fight at Winchester. i)oubtless heavy fighting is going on. Respectfully, JOHN I). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General Page 417 CnAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 417 HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., October 19, 1861. Hon. EDWIN LXI. STANTON, Secretary of War Firing at the front has been continuous (luring the day. The direc- tion seemed at intervals to be left of Winchester, as if at Berrys Ferry. No news from the front. JOHN 1). STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY~ W. VA., October 19, 1861 (5.15 p. in. Hon. EDWIN NI. STANTON, Secretary of liar: Report from front through General Seward. The enemy attacked our army with great impetuosity this morning at daylight. The attack was made on the left (Ligbth Corps), and was at first successful, they cal)tllring some guns, prisoners, and wagons. Our line was reformed, amid heavy fighting continued through the day. Sheridan reported at Winchester this morning; went out to the front. The particulars received are not official, and are not favorable, though no serious disas- ter would have occurred without direct news from Sheridan. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON Brigadier- General. HARPERS FERRY, W. VA., October 19, 18646.20 p. in. Mnj. THOMAS T. ECKERT: The firing still continues. We cannot distinguish that it is nearer thaii iii the morning; it has been about equally distinct all day. El). SCHERMERHORK, Operator. CAMDEN STATION, JIaltonore, October 1.9, 1861. Hon. E. Xii. STANTON: You are doubtless advised that the enemy attacked General Slieri- dans forces, near Winchester, at daylight this a. in., and that the battle has raged thironohout the day-, commtiniiing heavily at 4.40 p. in., and apparently, it is reported, nearer to Harpers Ferry than earlier in the. day. It is stated the enemy has been re-enforced by lull. As we have only snch reports as are comimig from the front to points upon our line. may we ask, if you see any necessity for the smispensiomi of running our trains fuoin Harpers Ferry west, that you give mis immediate advice. It you desire any muovemnemit from Washington or Daltiiiiore, we can, upon short notice. fun ii sh requisite tran spo~tatiOi I. J. W. (~AIiRETT, 27 n RYOL XLIII, PT 1 Page 418 418 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. CHAP. LV. HEADQUARTERS MILITARY 1)ISTRICT OF HARPERS FERRY, Harpers Ferry, October 19, 1864. WILLIAM P. SMITH, Baltimore coid Ohio Jlulroad: SIR: In reply to your note of inquiry concerning recent raid across Potomac in direction of Adainstown, I must correct the impression created upon yonr mind that the raiding party crossed above the mouth of the Monocacy. Such is not the fact; the point of crossing was Whites Ferry, four miles below the mouth of Monocacy. They came up the tow-path, crossing this side of the Monocacy, passed through Licksville to Adamstown, at which point they were met and driveit across the river. There has not a single rebel, so far as I am advised, crossed above the mouth of the Monocacy since I assumed command of this district. Although the force watching fords is insignificant in numbers, yet their disposition will enable inc at all times to promptly check all raids made upon your road from points below harpers Ferry and within this military district. Of this fact I feel warranted in giving you the fullest assnrance. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Bri~qadier- General, Commanding. MARTINSBITR ~, October 19, P64. General STEVENSON: Au officer from Winchester, who left there at 1 p. in., reports that the Eighth Corps, which occui)ied the extreme left, was surprised at (laylight, the rebels crossing Cedar Creek and charging through the camp. The quartermaster of Second Cavalry Corps, from front, reported that two brigades from Eighth Corps, from twelve to sixteen guns, and several wagons, were captured. Our line was reformed near Newtown. The officer heard heavy firing about the time he left Winchester, which continued till lie reached towii. A Herald reporter, just in, reports that he understood, but not on good authority, that some of the gimiis were recaptured. He also reports that firing had coin inenced on the extreme right, occupied by Custer. The Sixth Corps, which was in reserve, was moved to the support of the Eighth Corps. Sheridan was at Winches- tem this a. in., but started for the front imniediately. Powells division, which was at Front Royal, had not been hear(l from. Part of our wagon train caine into Winchester in great confusion, but were halted and parked there. I think that we should have heard from Sheridan direct if the army had fallen back or there had been a decided move. W. 11. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. MARTIN SRUIB4, October 19, 1861. [General STEVENSON:] Train to-luorrow will not be over 300 wagons. I can send Heines brigade and the cattle guard, which have returlLe(l from Wilhiamsport; in all 800 infantry; also First New \ork Cavalry, 300 men. Will this not be large enough guard ~ No news from front; heavy firing all day. W. H. SEWAIII), Brigadier- General Page 419 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 419 [General STEVENSON:] MARTINSBURG, October 19, 1864. The rations of Nineteenth Corps run out on the 20th; the rest of the army are rationed until the 26th. There are about 350 wagons to be loaded besides the train for to-morrow. A brigade of 1,000 men reported last night besides Heines brigade. I could send them also. if necessary, but think it would be best to hold them for Fridays train. Shall I scud the train in the morning with the escorts spoken of in my last dispatch? W. H. SEWARD, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS, Harpers Perry, October 19, 1864. General SEWARD: I send you to-night the cavalry I spoke of. They will be in Martins- burg at 6 a. in. to-morrow morning. Hold train until Friday morning, unless rations are short at front; in that event send it to-morrow. How many wagons for front have you besides this train ~ JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. 1ST CAy. Div., DEPT. OF W. VA., No. 28. Cumberland, Md., October 19, 1864. The general commandiiug the division, having been assigned to another command, is called to say farewell to the troops who have served with him so faithfully during the arduous campaign of the last summer. To the officers and soldiers of the Fifteenth and Twenty-first New York, the Twentieth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and the First Virginia Battery he extends his hearty congratulations. Your valor, fortitude, and endnrance, your fidelity to your country, your perseverence under discouragements, demand the gratitll(le of every American citizen. You have the thanks of your commanding general. Farew-ell! A. N. 1)UFFIE, Brigadier- Genera. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE DEPT., 8TH ARMY CORPS, No. 261. Baltimore, October 19, 1864. * * -~ * * 2. In accordance with paragraph 49, Special Order 350, Adjutant- Generals Office, October 17, 1864, the four companies of the Tenth Regiment. Veteran Reserve Corps will be put en route without delay to rel)ort to the cominandin g general Department of Washington. The quartermasters departin~nt will furnish the necessary transportation. Brigadier-General Lockwood, commanding Third Separate Brigade, is charged with the execution of this order. * * * * * By command of Major-General Wallace: SAML. B. LAWRENCE, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 420 420 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. rdllAr. LV. CIIAMBEESJIITRG, PA., October 19, 164. (Iteceived 9.30 ~ in.) Brig. Gen. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General: In consequence of some alarm along the border as to the probability. of a raid, I give up my leave. 1). N. COUCH. 9 ill ajor- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEJIANNA, No. 62. Charnbersbwrg, Pa., October 19, 1861. In honor of the distinguished services of the late ~ Gen. i)avid B. Birney, U. S. Volunteers, who died at his home in Phula(lelphia. )n the 18th instant, of disease contracted in the service, it is directed that from meridian until sunset on the 21st instant the national Nag be dis- played at half mast at the several military posts in this department, and during the same time that ha]fhonr guns be fired at Philadelphia and at the headquarters of the department. By command of Major.General Couch: JNO. S. SCH1JLTZE, Assistant A(jutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, No. 248. Chainbersbnrg, Pa., October 19, 1864. 1. Maj. Gen. George Cadwalader, IT. S. Volunteers, will assume coni- mand of the Department of time Susquehanna during the temporary absence of the commanding general. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Conch: JNO. S. SCIIULTZE, Assista at Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York City, Oetober 19, 156i. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & eretary of War: I have been advised that a party of rebels from Cammada have robbed the banks at Saimmt Albans, Vt., and killed several citizemis. I have ordered the provost-marshal at Burlington to send his whole efficient force there, and have also ordered 100 men from Boston. I have directed a discreet officer to be put iii command, with orders, in case the maraud- ers are found on our side of the line, to pursue them, if necessary, into Canada, and destroy them. JOHN N. DIX, 1lft~jor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York City, October 19, 1864. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, General-in- Chief: GENERAL: I deem it my daly to call your attention, as gemmera 1-lu- chief of the Army, to the want of troops in this city and harbor. It i Page 421 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONiJENCE, ETCUNION. 421 but a short time since the Third iT. S. infantry was takt~n from me, and five days ago I received an order to send to you the Seventh U. S. Infuitry. It is now being relieved by the Seventeenth. The Seventh Regiment constituted the garrison of Fort Selinyler and Fort Lafayette. The latter has sixty-three rebel prisoners, chic fly blockade-runners, and iriany of them men of desperate character. The former is one of our most important forts, and is the only protection for the entrance itito the harbor by way of Long Island Sonnd. My aggregate force here present for duty to-day, exclusive of musicians, recruits, and daily and extra duty men, is as follows: Fort Hamilton, Twelfth U. S. Infan- try, 21; Fort Lafayette, Seventeenth U. S. Infantry and various regiments, 75; fort at Sandy Hook, Twenty-eighth New York Battery, 50- Th )rt Schuyler, Twenty-eighth New York Battery, 50; Fort Wood, Sixth U. S. Infantry, i)ermalient party and casually at post, 65; Bat- tery Barracks, detachment Sixth U. S. Inf~ntry, detachment Twentieth New York Battery, and permanent party, 68; Fort Richmond, Fifth U. S. Artillery, 30; total, 359. Fort Columbus is a general recruiting depot and not under my control. It has the Twentieth New York Battery, aggregate 101, and 21 of the Veteran Reserve Corps. The total for duty is 81; and there are 150 deserters, stragglers, wounded and sick, and over 300 rebel prisoners to take care of. The public property in the city amounts to many millions of dollars, and there is more disaffection and disloyalty, independent of the elements of mischief and disturbance always here, than in any other city in the Union. I have not men enough to man one-tenth l)art , t enough to do guard of the guns in the harbor and no (luty properly. A few days ago I was ordered to send a regiment to Hart~s Island to take care of prisoners of war al)out to be sent there. But I have not, as you see, a single regiment left. I have deemed it ~~oper to advise you of the condition of things here. I feel that this want of preparation would be very injurious if known, and it is not easy to conceal it long. Fort Richmond, the most impor- tant fortification in the harbor. is shut up, the Fifth U. S. Artillery having not men enough to guard properly the exterior batteries. I feel very uneasy under this state of thiiigs, without a force adequate to protect the public property in the city or the iml)ortant forts in the hi arbor. I was at Harts I sland the day before yesterday, where there were 2,700 recruits. Of these, 750 left for the Army of the Potomac the same day; the residue will go as rapidly as they can be prepared for transportation. In fact, under existing arrangemnents~ there is no other delay in forwarding recruits than that w~hich is necessary to make out their papers. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. ~IoNTPELIER, VT., October 19. 18G4. Hon. E. M. STANTON: A party of rebels have invaded Saint Albans, robbed thebanks, killed several citizens, stolen horses, and (he stroyed property. Send me an order instantly for arms at Vergennes, and telegraph stotekeeper there to deliver to my order. J. (}. SMITH, Governor Page 422 422 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. WASHINGTON CITY, October 19, iS649 .30 p. m. Governor SMITH, Mon tpelier, Vt.: Your telegram received. You are authorized to call upon the mili- tary store-keeper at Vergennes for ordnance supplies, and he is directed, on presentation of this telegram, to furnish them irrnnediately. You can also call on General Dix, who will flu your requisition. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MONTPELIER VT October 19, 1864. , ., (Received 7 p. in.) Maj. Gen. JOHN A. DIX: Rebels from Canada have invaded the State, robbed all the banks at Saint Albans, killed several citizens, and are at work destroying prop- erty. Send such force as you can to hell) us. J. GREGORY SMITH, Gocernor of Vermont. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York City, October 19, 1864. J. GREGORY SMITH, Mon tpelier, Vt.: I have ordered a Inilitary force from Boston to Saint Albaus, and have ordered the provost-marshal at Burlington to send his whole efficieut force there. In case the marauders are found on our side of the line I have directed that they be pursued into Canada if necessary to over- take and destroy them. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. BURLINGTON, VT., October 19, 1864. General JOHN A. DIX: The raiders number about twenty-five. Captain Conger, with fifty men, has been heard from within half a mile of them, at Sheldon, eight miles this side the line, and another party may intercept them. Your order to pursue into Canada has been forwarded. R. PROCTOR, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS T)EPARTMENT OF THE EAST, Yew York City, October 19, 1864. PROVOST-MARSHAL, Burlington, Vt.: Send all the effi ient force you have to Saint Albans, and try to find the marauders who came from Canada this morning. Put a discreet officer in command, and in case they are found on our side ot the line pursue them into Canada if necessary a~nd destroy them. JOHN A. DiX, ilajor- General Page 423 CHAP. LV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.----UNION. 423 IiEAD~VARTERS I)EPARTMENT OF THE EAST, New York City, October 19, 1864. Maj. F. K. CLARKE, Boston, Mass.: Send 100 men, with good officers, to Saint Albans, Vt., without delay. A party of rebels from Canada have robbed the banks there and are destroying property. If found on our side of the line pursue them into Canada if necessary. Call upon Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd-Jones for the men and the quartermaster for transl)ortation. JOhN A. DIX, Major- General. NEW YORK, N. V., October 19,. 1864. Major ECKERT: Following dispatch to press: BrnuNGrox, Yr., [Uctobeij 19. A party of twenty-five armefi men rode into Saint AlI)aas this afternoon, and robbed three banks there of $150,000. It is sllp1)osed they were Southerners from border of Canada. Five citizens were shot, one it is feared fatally. 1-laying accomplished their object the band left immediately for Canada. LATER.The man Morrison, who was shot through the body, has since died. SMITH. CITY POINT, VA., October 20, 18647 p. m. (Received 8.10 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I had a salute of 100 guns fi~om each of the armies here fired in honor of Sheridans last victory. Turning what bid fair to be a disaster into glorious victory stamps Sheridan, what I have always thought him, one ot the ablest of generals. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. [OCTOBER 20, 1864.For Meade to Grant, referring to Sheridans victory, see Vol. XLII, Part III, p. 281.1 CITY POINT, VA., October 20,1864Ip. m. (Received 5.40 p. in.) Major-General HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: No troops have gone from here to the Valley according to the infor- mation we have. Deserters come into all points of our lines daily, from which the position of every division of Lees army can be located. It is probable Sheridan has had to meet ~ divisioi~,in addition to the forces he has heretofore defeated. I think that division does not now exceed 4,000 in number. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General Page 424 424 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MD., AND PA. [CHAP. LV. CEDkII (I~FFI~, October 20, 1SG41i.~?O a. m. (Received 12 in. 21st.) Ejeut. Gen. 17. S. ({R ANT. City Point, Ia. We have again been favored by a great victorya victory won fuoin disaster by the gallantry of our othcerS and men. The attack on the enemy was made about 3 p. in. by a left half-wheel of the whole line, with a division of cavalry turning each flank of the enemy, the whole line advancing. The enemy, after a stubborn resistance, broke and fled, a were pushed with vigor. The artillery captured will probably be over fifty piecesthis, of course, includes what was cap- tured from our troops in the early morning. At least 1,600 prisoners have been brought ill; also wagons and ambulances in large numbers. This morning the cavalry made a dash at Fishers Hill and carried it, the enemy having fled durir_o the night, leaving only a small rear guard. I have to regret the loss of many valuable officers killed and wounded; among them Col. Joseph Thoburn, commanding division of Crooks command, killed; Col. C. 11. Lowell, commanding Ileserve Cavalry Brigade, killed; Col. J. Howard Kitching, conimanding bri- gade, wounded; Col. 11. 5. Mackenzie, commanding brigade, wounded severely; would not leave the field. I cannot yet give exact details. Many of our men captured by the enemy in the morning have made their escape and are coming in. l~amnseumr, commanding division in Earlys army, died this morning. P. H. SHEitII)AN, Major- General. WINCHESTER, VA., October 20, 1864. General J. K. BARNES, (Received 9 a. in. 21st.) Surgeon - Genera 1: Heavy engagement near Cedar Creek yesterday. Our army driven at first; afterward recovered ground, guns, and position, driving the enemy. Seven hundred and seventy-seven slightly wounded received here yesterday; Doctor Ghiselin reports 2,000 more to arrive; does not state how many are rebels. Field hospital established at Newtown. Will forward all wounded able to bear transportation to Ma.rtinsburg as rapidly as possible. Please prepare hospital for their reception, as a large number can go to Baltimore, or beyond. J. V. Z. BLAKEY, ASnrgeon, V. S. Volunteers Med teal .J)ireetor. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, NO. 60. October 20, 1864. * * * * * * * 4. Brig. Gen. Max Weber will at once I)rocee(l to Ilagerstown, Md., there to await further orders. By command of Major-General Sheridan: C. KINGSBU1~Y, JR., As.s-ista ut Adjutant- General Page 425 CHAP. LV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 425 IlECTORTOWN, VA., October 20, 1864. (Received 7.20 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chi ~f AStaff: Is it the desire of the Department that I still remain here ~ Every- thing is organized and arranged, and ! (an do nothing more while the railroad is in its present condition. C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. ALEXANDRIA, VA., October 20, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel TAYLOR, Chief oJ AS~taff: (Receive(l 10 P. uL) COLONEL: It is reported that about 100 guerrillas are between Annandale and Fairfax Court-House. I have sent what cavalry I have to look after them. W. W. WINSHIP, Captain and A ctinq Pro rost- lie r8h a 1- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, October 20, 1864. Division commanders will hold their commands in readiness to move at a moments notice. Should a movement be made, the order of march will be as follows: first, First Division; secon(l, Second Divisiomi; third. Third Division; fourth, artillery; fifth, ambulances and trains, under a suitable guard, to be furnished by the commanding officer Third Division. The chief of artillery will designate one battery to report to the coin- mander of the leading division. By command of Major-General Wright: C. II. WHITTELSEY, A sdstan t A ~jUt((flt- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS SLxTII ARMY CORPS, October 20, 1864. The command is relieved from the orders of this morning, that they should be held in readiness for a movement. The animals of the trains and artillery may be unhitched and unharnesse(l, but the troops kept well in hand. By command of Major-General Wright: C. A. WHITTIER, Major and Ai(ie-de-Canmp. HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION, Cedar Creek, October 20, 1864. Brevet Major-General EMORY, Comnzandinq Nineteenth Army Corps GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you move buick your corps at your leisure to-morrow morning, an(l go into camp in your 01(1 position on the north side of Cedar Creek. 1 aiim, general, very respectfully, & c., JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of & aff Page 426 426 OPERATIONS IN N. VA., W. VA., MI)., AN)) I~A. [CHAP. LV. HEADOVARTETZS MIDDLE N I LI TATIY Divis IoN~ October 20, 186i. Brevet Major-General EixIoRv: Major-General Sheridan directs me to inform you that the provost gnar(l sent from your corps to Middletown (belonging to the Second Brigade, Second Division) has been ordere(1 to remaill at that place until further orders. I-respectfully, your obedient servant, M. V. SJIET5iJDAN, (lap ta ia and Aide-dc- Camp. ORDERS.1 HDQRS. DETACHMENT NINETnm~TJI AnMY CORPS StF((Sbarq, Va., October 20, 1(S64. This command will be un(ler arms t daybreak to-morrow. Tents will be struck and artillery, wagons, & c., hitched up at that hour. By order of Brevet Major-General Emory: DUN A~ S. WALKER, As~i8tant Adjutant- General. IIEAI)QUARTERS, I-Ia rpers Ferry, October 20, 1864. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of IVar: News from Sheridans headquarters at midnight, to the effect that the enemy surprised our forces yesterday morning, (Iriving the com- mand in some confusion this side of Newtowu, capturing artillery and prisoners. Sheridan arrived on the field, reorganized our forces, drove the enemy beyond Strasbnrg, capturing, it is reported, 43 pieces of artillery, 200 wagons and ambulances, and some 2,000 prisoners. The rout of the enemy said to be complete. This is not official, but I think it reliable. Respectfully, JOHN D. STEVENSON, Brigadier- General. MARTINSBFE (+, October 20, 1SG4. Brigadier-General STEvENSON: A reporter who left General Sheridans headquarters at midnight says that the enemy completely surprised us yesterday morning, driv- ing us in some confusion to a short distance this side of Newtown and capturing twenty-four pieces of our artillery. General Sheridan ar- rived on the field, from Winchester, at 1.30 oclock, reorganized our forces, drove the enemy beyond Strasburg, capturing 43 pieces, over 100 wagons and ambulances, and, it was supposed, about 2,000 prisoners. The rout of the enemy was complete. General Sheridan occupies his old headquarters at Cedar Creek. Dispatches have been sent through the telegraph office to General Grant. W. H. SEWARD, Briqadier- General Page 427 CHAP. LY.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 427 HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, illiartinsbury, Tea., October 20, 1864. Brigadier-General STEVENSON, Corn hWfl(liflg ililitary District of Haipers Ferry GENERAL: I have received no news front the front since iny9 oclock dispatch, except a dispatch from Lieutenant-Colonel Page, chief qnar-