CHARLESTOWN, VA., July 17, 1861.
Col. E. D. TOWNSEND, U. S. Army:
The term of service of the Pennsylvania troops (eighteen regiments) expires within seven days, commencing to-morrow. Can rely on none of them renewing service. I must be at once provided with efficient three years’ men or withdraw to Harper’s Ferry. Shall I reoccupy permanently Harper’s Ferry or withdraw entirely? I wrote yesterday on this subject, and now wish to be informed of the intention of the General-in-Chief. My march to-day was without opposition or incident of importance. The country has been drained of men. This place has been a depot of supplies for force at Winchester, and the presence of the army is not welcomed.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. PATTERSON,
Major-General, Commanding.
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 