HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA,
Fortress Monroe, July 19, 1861.
SIR: It will be seen by the inclosed reports, which I have waited for in order that exact knowledge might be imparted, that a party which went out for the purpose of procuring wood took advantage of that permission to go farther, and suffered themselves to be surprised. I regret much the loss of the men, and while there is no excuse for the insubordination of the officers in exceeding their instructions, their own capture prevents any official inquiry into their conduct.
I have nothing further of interest to report, except that I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the communication of July 17 approving my action in relation to the arms and equipage of the Massachusetts three-months’ men, and the departure homeward of the two Massachusetts regiments of three months’ men in fine health and spirits.
I have the honor to be, most truly and respectfully, your obedient servant,
BENJ. F. BUTLER,
Major-General, Commanding.
Lieutenant-General SCOTT.
- July 13 Report of Lieut. Col. E. Kapff, Seventh New York Infantry
- July 15 Report of Lieut. Louis Schaffner, Adjutant Seventh New York Infantry
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 