E. H. P. Scammon to Jacob D. Cox, May 16, 1862

GENERAL:

Your courier just arrived. Have heard from Colonel Moor. He had moved to the front with part of his force or would have communicated sooner. Am glad to hear that Wytheville road is to be held. Will keep up communication with detachment at French’s, as directed.

To-morrow morning I had decided to act more offensively toward The Narrows. In view of your plans, as I think I understand then, at least to some extent, I have not wished to make such efforts as would neces_ sitate the pushing up re-enforcements so fast as to disorganize the command. I think The Narrows will be ours, as I have before said, when you give the word.

I will be ready to act when the word comes and as it directs. In saying that I had decided to act more offensively toward The Narrows I did not mean that I will pass them, but drive off the enemy from some field breastworks which they have erected on the opposite side of the river. A few well-directed shots will do it at any time. I think I could pass The Narrows, but apart from orders I doubt if we could keep communication free from annoyance from the other side of the river until it too is cleared of the rebels.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,