Jno. W. Geary to Twenty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Vols., Comdg, March 27, 1862

Middleburg, Va., March 27, 1862.

Sm: Upon reaching here about noon to-day I found there were about 200 cavalry and 200 infantry in and around the town, being advised of * Tabulated on p. 384.

tSee also Series I, Vol. V, pp. 511-517, for Geary’s report of operations in Loudoun County, Virginia, February 25-May 6, 1862. ee SEs their presence by their pickets beyond, who fled upon our approach. The cavalry were of Colonel Stuart’s and Captain White’s commands. I took possession of the town and pursued the cavalry, who fled precipitately to a woods nearly 2 miles distant, some of my rifles bearing upon them as they started. They at first evinced a design to make a stand just beyond the town, and evidently intended maneuvering to get a pursuing force on the flank with their infantry. We threw a few well-directed shells among them in the woods, when they again fled. No enemy are now in sight. I am occupying a good position here, and will encamp for the night.

I have been informed credibly that General Stuart is at or near The Plains, with a force of about 3,000 men, and it is rumored that about 2,000 are at or near Piedmont. As I now shall probably encounter superior forces, and having horses and men provided, I hope that you will send me the two pieces of cannon belonging to my battery. You will observe the necessity of this to enable me to cope with greater numbers.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Colonel Twenty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Vols., Comdg.

Lieut. G. B. DRAKE,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Brigade.