F J. Porter to HAGERSTOWN, June 28, 1861, June 28, 1861

Hagerstown, Md., June 28, 1861.

Col. J. J. ABERCROMBIE, Seventh Infantry, Commanding Sixth Brigade :

Sir: The commanding general directs you to march as early as practicable to-morrow morning with two regiments of your brigade, and encamp near the First Brigade at Downsville. The third regiment will be left as guard to the store-houses, hospitals, &c.,in town. A guard of one officer and twenty-five men will be sent to guard the property, funds, &c., in this building pertaining to the staff departments. Captain MceMullen is directed to report to you with his company to march at the same time.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

HAGERSTOWN, June 28, 1861.

Col. E. D. TOWNSEND :

Telegrams of 25th and 27th received. The enemy being superior

in number, 15,000, with twenty-two guns, and having just assumed a

threatening attitude and location, I would not be warranted under the

orders of the General-in-Chief in crossing the river with my single battery, raw and immovable for want of harness. Send me the Rhode