Irvin McDowell to Ss. F. Barstow, August 27, 1862

It being understood that a large division of the enemy under Longstreet left Salem at 4 p. m. for the enemy’s position in the direction of Manassas, through Thoroughfare Gap, and is now on the march, the following preliminary movements of the left wing of the army will be ‘ immediately made:

Major-General Sigel’s corps will without delay be concentrated at or near Hay Market and Gainesville.

A division of the Third Corps will be left at Buckland Mills to operate against the flank of the enemy’s column or march to Hay Market, as shall be found most expedient. King’s and Ricketts’ divisions will march tc Gainesville, and start at 2 o’clock in the morning to attack

L76 OPERATIONS IN N. V. A., W. V. A., AND M. D. = (Cuar. XXIV.

the enemy’s position in the direction of Manassas. This attack will be supported under the provision of the general orders from Headquarters of the Army of Virginia, by the command of Major-General Heintzel. man, now at Gainesville,* and which wil be on the right of the attack.

By command of Major-General McDowell: