H. W. Slocum to S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General, October 6, 1861

Alexandria, Va., October 6, 1861.

SIR:

I received information on the 3d instant that a body of the enemy’s cavalry was at Pohick Church, about 12 miles from these headquarters, together with such other information as led me to suppose that the force could be captured without difficulty. The plan of an expedition for this purpose was fully matured and was verbally communicated to Colonel Christian, Twenty-sixth New York Volunteers, who was detailed to the command. An order was then issued of which I herewith inclose a copy. . –

The expedition proved an entire failure, and this result I am informed and believe is to be attributed to the fact that my orders relative to the manner of the execution were not obeyed ; and what is still more amnoying to me and disgraceful to my command, is the fact that instead of being marched back to the camp in good order, alarge portion of the command was allowed to disband beyond our line of piekets, and, as might have been anticipated from such a proceeding, this force sent

to operate against the troops of the enemy was converted into a band.

of marauders, who plundered alike friend and foe.

CRAP. XIV.) SKIRMISH NEAR EDWARDS FERRY, MD.

I deem it my duty to lay these facts before the commanding general, aud to suggest that a court of inquiry be convened for the purpose of a thorough investigation of all the circumstances attending the expedition.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Brigadier-General Volunteers, Commanding.

Maj. S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Inclosure.;