T. A. Morris to John A. Stein, June 2, 1861
Colonel DUMONT,
CoLoNEL: You will proceed by railroad this evening at 8.30 o’clock to Webster, with eight companies of your regiment. At Webster you will be joined by Colonel Steedman, with five companies of his regiment and «two field pieces, also by Colonel Crittenden, with six companies of his regiment. From Webster you will, with this command, march on Philippi, using your own discretion in the conduct of the march, keeping in view that you should arrive in front of the town at 4 o’clock precisely tomorrow morning.
Information is received that the rebels are in some force at Philippi.
The object of your column will be to divert attention until the attack is made by Colonel Kelley, and should resistance be offered you are to aid him to the extent of your ability. In the conduct of your column you must use your discretion, being governed by such circumstances as may occur. When joined by Colonel Kelley, the whole force will be under his command.
The companies of your regiment will take two full days’ rations. Should you receive instructions from Colonel Kelley that the rebels have retreated, you will join him at once, and act under his command.
By command of Brig. Gen. T. A. Morris:
, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
This force, in leaving Grafton after dark, had reasonable assurance of
reaching the enemy in advance of any information from their friends,
and was completely surprised, as the reports of those engaged in theattack attest.
The failure to capture the entire rebel force can only be attributed to
the storm during the night. This unforeseen misfortune served to call