Henry W. Halleck to Comstock, June 7, 1863
Captain Comstock, Corps of Engineers, present:
CapraiIn: You will immediately repair to the city of Pittsburgh, Pa., and make preparations for the defense of that place against a possible rebel raid. Brigadier-General Barnard has been directed to advise with you on this subject. A copy of his instructions is inclosed herewith.*
The main object of your mission is to assist the municipal authorities and the peoplein preparing for their own defense. They are capable, and, it is presumed, ready to defend their town against any efforts the rebels may make to capture or destroy it. You will assist and animate them in the performance of this patriotic duty, should the occasion arise. A few days’ labor in the trenches will render their city entirely safe from a cowp de main. They should not neglect this preparation, nor postpone it till toolate. Impressuponthem the importance of prompt and efficient action.
Brigadier-General [W. T. H.] Brooks has been appointed to the command of that department, with authority to make requisitions fon arms, artillery, &c. You will report to him, and show him these orders.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
General-in-Chief.
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SPECIAL ORDERS, bees THIRD Division, CAVALRY CoRPs,
I. Col. J. Kilpatrick, Second New York Cavalry, having reported
for duty with his regiment, will again assume command of his commandt as constituted in General Orders, No. 13, February 16, 1863,
from these headquarters.