N. G. Evans to March 12, 1862, March 7, 1862
Adams Run, S. C., March 7, 1862.
SIR:
As I see by the newspapers that a resolution has passed the Confederate Congress calling for the report of Col. W. H. Jeniferâs cavalry force of the battle of Leesburg, I deem it but justice to the troops under my command at Leesburg, on October 21st and 22d, to state that Colonel Jenifer was never placed in command of any other troops but the five companies first engaged. Isent for Colonel Jenifer and placed him in command of these companies and of none others; neither was Colonel Jenifer acquainted with the plan of attack, as is shown by the reports of the regimental commanders engaged. I would also state
that I sent for Colonel Jenifer and called his attention to the contradictory statements in his report. I also communicated the facts of his report to Colonels Barksdale, Featherston, Hunton, and Griffin, who expressed their surprise, as they received no orders from Colonel Jenifer.
l make this statement to explain the contradictory reports. By reference to the reports of the colonels commanding a true history of the battle will be found.
Should Col. W. H. Jeniferâs report be published, I respectfully request that this statement be also published.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.
Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR, Richmond, Va.
[Indorsementa.]
MARCH 12, 1862.
If Colonel Jeniferâs report was transmitted through General Evans,
he had then the opportunity to make the proper indorsement on it and
cannot now add other remarks, and thus irregularly change the record