WASHINGTON, July 13, 1861.
Major-General PATTERSON,
Commanding U. S. Forces at Martinsburg, Va.:
GENERAL: I telegraphed to you yesterday, if not strong enough to beat the enemy early next week, make demonstrations so as to detain him in the valley of Winchester; but if he retreats in force towards Manassas, and it be too hazardous to follow him, then consider the route via Key’s Ferry, Leesburg, &c.
WINFIELD SCOTT.
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies. Series I, Vol. II. With additions and corrections. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1902.
Spirit of '61 