Silas Casey to C. H. Potter, December 31, 1862

568 14th Street, Washington, D. C., December 31, 1862.

Srm: I have the honor to inclose General Stoughton’s and Colonel D’Utassy’s reports of their movements during the rebel raid of the 28th instant. General Stoughton accomplished all that could be done without cavalry, and [ am well satisfied with Colonel D’Utassy’s operations with his slender brigade.

In my opinion, two regiments of cavalry placed at the disposal of General Stoughton in time would have been able to cut off many of the enemy and to have driven off the rest.

Immediately on receipt of information that the enemy had crossed the Occoquan, my pickets south of Hunting Creek were strengthened and my troops in that position kept on the alert. In my opinion, the enemy intended an attack on Fairfax Station, and my orders to General Stoughton and Colonel D’Utassy were to hold that position at all hazards.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,