Unknown to Irvin McDowell, March 30, 1862

GENERAL:

In obedience to orders to march to this point on the Manassas Railroad, I reached here yesterday afternoon at 2 o’clock with my whole command, having left Middleburg the same morning at 7 o’clock. The latter place was reconnoitered for some considerable distance in circuit, but no enemy could be found, the rout upon our oceupation of the town having effectually driven them toward the mountains. Upon reaching this place I found no troops, and that there had been none for several days, the last having been White’s cavalry, who I am informed communicate such of our movements as they can learn to rebel officers below here. I have encamped at the base of a hill, and hold the strongest position in view. :

Owing to the great inclemency of the weather, having rained and sleeted from late in the afternoon all night, it continues so this morning, rendering it impossible to reconnoiter with any satisfactory result. As soon as sufficiently clear I will make a tour of examination and report at once thereupon. At present the atmosphere is foggy, the clouds lowering, and the trees and ground covered with ice and snow half an inch thick.

I have received no official documents from headquarters for several days. Major Atwood handed me a memoranda of instructions taken from communications he destroyed to prevent them falling into the hands of the enemy.

I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient