John A. Dix, November 21, 1861

GENERAL:

Ascertain, if possible, the parties who committed the – depredations referred to in your letter and order, and send them back, -as directed, in irons. If you have any thieves with you, get rid of them as soon as possible. I wish the troops to be sent back here as soon as they can be spared. I think if, as you suppose, there is to be no fighting in Northampton, and you get possession of the cannon in the two counties, you ean send back the Fourth Wisconsin, the Fifth New York, the Sixth Michigan, the Seventeenth Massachusetts, the Twenty- ` first Indiana, Nims’ light battery, and Richards cavalry, reserving only the Delaware and Maryland troops. Captain Knight thought two companies would be sufficient to hold the two counties. I would be. glad to have your views on the subject: My impression was that it would be advisable to have 500 men in each county. The force in Aecomae might winter in Drummondtown, and the force in Northampton at Eastville, with a detachment of a few. men from each to take care of the light at Cape Charles and Pungoteague. Early arrangements should be made to cover these troops for the winter, and as soon as you see what may be needed please advise me. Iam,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,