POINT OF ROCKS, July 4, 1861.
Colonel: I reported night before last and yesterday by telegraph. I visited the river opposite Harper’s Ferry yesterday and to-day. There are now at that point the Pennsylvania First Regiment, part of the New York Ninth, and Colonel Cake’s command. The train of provisions and ammunition has been detained on the road, but will be up to-night.
I have no news from General Patterson since my telegram of last night. Had I only a little artillery and cavalry a good advance could be made, co-operating with General Patterson. I hope to occupy the town of Harper’s Ferry to-night or to-morrow morning, in spite of the want of artillery.
The people received the troops at Berlin, Knoxville, and Sandy Hook with the greatest demonstration of joy and relief. I think it important to send a Government operator for the telegraph here and at Harper’s Ferry.
Very respectfully, I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
CHAS. P. STONE,
Colonel Fourteenth Infantry, Commanding Expedition.
Lieut. Col. E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Headquarters of the Army.
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 