Nathaniel P. Banks to Edward D. Townsend, August 6, 1861

Near Harper’s Ferry, Va., August 6, 1861.

Col. E. D. TowNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General :

SIR: I was much gratified to receive the order authorizing the transfer of stores, &c., to Frederick. Immediate measures will be taken to carry it into effect and to bring the war regiments here. The telegram advising the withdrawal of stores from Hagerstown to Sandy Hook was duly received, and orders were given to’the quartermaster to hold them in readiness for removal; but there were no;buildings at Sandy Hook, and the eamp covers were exhausted in protecting our own stores. We were preparing buildings at Knoxville when the order of yesterday was received. Prisoners taken from the Virginia side of the river speak to those they think prisoners of their expectations that Johnston will enter Leesburg shortly with a large force. The general tenor of our intelligence is of an advance in that direction, if any is made. We have now nearly 12,000 men, and the regiments are rapidly improving in discipline and drill.

with great respect, your obedient servant,

Major-General, Commanding.