Simon Cameron to E.D. Townsend, July 13, 1861

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

Received the announcement of McClellan’s victory with great gratification. His success, however, makes no change in my plans. This force is the keystone of the combined movements, and injury to it would counteract the good effects of all victories elsewhere, Johnston is in position beyond Winchester, to be re-enforced, and his strength doubled just as I would reach him. My position is a strong one, but I must act ‘cautiously whilst preparing to strike.

Washington, July 13, 1861. Major-General PATTERSON, Commanding U. S. Forces at Martinsburg, Va.:

GENERAL: I telegraphed to you yesterday, if not strong enough to beat the enemy early next week, make demonstrations so as to detain him in the valley of Winchester; but if he retreats in force towards Manassas, and it be too hazardous to follow him, then consider the route via Key’s Ferry, Leesburg, &c.

Washington, July 13, 1861. His Excellency Governor CURTIN, Governor of Pennsylvania : –

Sir: I respectfully request your excellency to send five of the longterm regiments of Pennsylvania Volunteers, in addition to the two at Cumberland, to report to Major-General Patterson, say at Harper’s Ferry, and the remainder of the long-term regiments to report to Lieutenant-General Scott in this city.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,