CHARLESTOWN, VA., July 18, 1861–1 p.m.
Col. E. D. TOWNSEND,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
I have succeeded, in accordance with the wishes of the General-in-Chief, in keeping General Johnston’s force at Winchester. A reconnaissance in force on Tuesday caused him to be largely re-enforced from Strasburg.
With the existing feeling and determination of the three months’ men to return home, it would be ruinous to advance, or even to stay here, without immediate increase of force to replace them. They will not remain.
I have ordered the brigades to assemble this afternoon, and shall make a personal appeal to the troops to stay a few days until I can be re-enforced. Many of the regiments are without shoes; the Government refuses to furnish them; the men have received no pay, and neither officers nor soldiers have money to purchase with. Under these circumstances, I cannot ask or expect the three months’ volunteers to stay longer than one week. Two companies of Pennsylvania volunteers were discharged to-day and ordered home. I to-day place additional force at Harper’s Ferry, and establish communication with Maryland.
I send Captain Newton to prepare for its defense.
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 