F. J. Porter to 728 OPERATIONS IN MD., PA., VA., AND W. VA, â (Cuap. Ix, June 27, 1861
Hagerstown, Md., June 27, 1861.
GENERAL: The commanding-general desires information of the location of the enemy on the opposite side of the river. To aid in obtaining it he sends Captain Simpson to you, and for the same purpose authorizes you to retain Captain Newton. This information is to determine the importance of crossing the river and offering battle or the possibility of cutting off any considerable body of their army. He purposes, with a part or all of his available force, to cross the river east of Ialling Waters and to rout such portions of the enemy as may be near the point of crossing; to attack the force stationed near the junction of the Shepherdstown road with that from Williamsport to Martinsburg; to turn upon the enemy stationed on the Neck, and recross at the ford near “Williamsport. Though wishing specially the character and number of _ the fords east of Williamsport, the same information of those west is important, in order to make a diversion, and perhaps his main attack on that side.
Lest a reconnaissance should draw the enemy in force from Bunker Hill in time to strengthen the body between tlis and Martinsburg, the general desires the information obtained as secretly as possible, employing spies to go into Virginia and testing the fords at night, by intelligent persons, Swimming, &c. He designs to cross with a force which will render success certain. Other information may be obtained in seeking for that desired, which may tend to change this plan or to mature it, and therefore the general desires the oflicers not to confine themselves to this. As soon as possible, after sufficient information is obtained, the general wishes Captains Newton and Simpson to report to him. He only awaits the arrival of harness for Perkins’ battery and this information to act.
very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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GRAFTON, June 28, 1861.
From information received to-day, I renew request that two Pennsylvania State regiments, now near Cumberland, be directed on Cumberland and Piedmont. If possible, some guns and cavalry. If Piedmont