R. Patterson to E.D. Townsend, July 24, 1861

Col. E. D. TOWNSEND : While awaiting the arrival of General Banks, who is addressed as commanding here, I have carefully considered the telegram of 11.30 p. in. of 23d from the General-in-Chief to him, and the course to be followed. Winchester is now occupied by about three thousand men. It is true they are militia; more in number than the effective men at my disposal. Three-years’ men only reliable. A proper force to take it new would strip the supplies here and at Sandy Hook of reliable protection. I consider the occupation of Harper’s Ferry with the small force here as hazardous, and as untenable against a formidable force with less than 20,000 men, The number now here is too small to hold Harper’s Ferry, and too large to retreat with if forced toevacuate. Nore-enforcements heard: of, and regiments going off at the rate of two to four per day.

Rk. PATTERSON,