George B. McClellan to The Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR, November 1, 1861
Washington, November 1, 1861.
SIR :
I have the honor to forward herewith Brigadier-General Stone’s report of the engagement near Leesburg on the 21st ultimo. I-also transmit a copy of the telegram sent by me to General Stone on the 20th [A], being the same mentioned in the beginning of his report as the basis of his movements. Ialsoinclose a copy of his telegram inreplyon . same date B]. My telegram did not contemplate the making an attack . upon the enemy or the crossing of the river in force by any portion of General Stone’s command, and, not anticipating such movement, I had upon the 20th directed Major-General McCall to return with his division on the morning of the 21st from Dranesville to the camp from which he had advanced, provided the reconnaissances intrusted to him should have been then completed. Being advised by telegrams from General Stone, received during the day and evening of the 21st, of the crossing of the river, the fall of Colonel Baker, the check sustained by our troops, and that nearly all his (Stone’s) force had erossed the river, I sent to him at Edwards Ferry the following telegram at 10,30 p. m. : * Intrench yourself on the Virginia side and await re-enforcements if necessary.” 1 immediately telegraphed Major-General Banks to proceed with the three brigades of his division to the support of General Stone, and advising the latter that he would be thus supported, I directed him to hold his position at all hazards. “On the 22d I went personally to the scene of operations, and after ascertaining that the enemy were strengthening themselves at Leesburg, and that our means of crossing and reerossing were very insufficient, I withdrew our forces from the Virginia side.
very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
Major-General, Commanding U. S. Army.
The Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR.
[Inelosure A.].
CAMP GRIFFIN, October 20, 1861..
Brigadier-General STONE, Poolesville :
General McClellan desires me to inform you that General McCall :
occupied Dranesville yesterday and is still there. Will send out heavy