Edwin M. Stanton to Edwin M. Stanton, May 5, 1864

(Received 10.35 a, m.) Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War: Our telegraph lines were cut at 7 o’clock this morning west of Cumberland. Operator at the instant of cutting had commenced forwarding advice that the Confederates were marching on Piedmont in force. You are aware that few troops remain to resist them, and unless immediate movements are made great destruction of railroad property and works will probably take place. Under these circumstances will it not be well to urge that tthe first regiment in Ohio ready for movement shall be hastened forward for the protection of the line? Rapidity of movement is probably vital to prevent great disasters. We last week advised General Sigel of the great importance of Piedmont, with its extensive shops and machinery, and of the urgent necessity to protect, but afew or no troops were left in that vicinity. JNO. W. GARRETT, President. Wak DEPARTMENT, May 5, 1864. JOHN W. GARRETT, Esq., Baltemore : Ohio troops are ordered to the line of your road, and Governor Brough has been requested to send them immediately.

EDWIN M. STANTON,