Benj. F. Butler to Hpqrs. SEVENTH REGIMENT N. Y. 8S. VOLUNTEERS, July 19, 1861

Fortress Monroe, July 19, 1861.

__ Sim: It will be’seen by the inclosed reports, which I have waited for an order that exact knowledge might be imparted, that a party which

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went out for the purpose of procuring wood took advantage of that permission to go farther, and suffered themselves to be surprised. Iregret 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,

Major-General, Commanding>
Lieutenant-General Scort.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. Lowis Schaffner, Adjutant Seventh New York Infantry.
Hpqrs. SEVENTH REGIMENT N. Y. 8S. VOLUNTEERS,
Camp Butler, Newport News, Va., July 15, 1861.