Unknown to John C. Frémont, June 8, 1862

Maj. Gen. JOHN C. FREMONT:

I pushed forward Colonel Carroll with one brigade and four pieces of artillery to move on Port Republic to burn the bridge and check the advance of the enemy. He went forward, I fear, imprudently, crossed the bridge, which is still standing, and drove the small force there defending it before him. While pursuing this force he was attacked by the enemy in force, lost two pieces of artillery, and is now in retreat to Conrad’s store. Part of the enemy, it seems, is on this side and part on the other side of the river. There is one brigade en route for Conrad’s store from this direction and another brigade at this point which I am moving forward to re-enforce them in front. I will also order a fourth brigade, with the exception of one regiment, which I will leave at Luray to check Longstreet, who is supposed to be in the mountains.

I will earnestly urge that you attack the enemy in their rear at once with all your force, and will get my command up as quickly as possible to operate in front

JAS. SHIELDS, Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS SHIELDS’ DIVISION Columbia Bridge, June 8—8.15 p. m. Major-General FREMONT, Commanding U. 8. Forces, Harrisonburg, Va.:

The enemy, as you are aware, ison the Port Republic road, with perhaps four or ‘five of his brigades on this side of the river. If not attacked in force to-night and hurled upon the river by your command, I apprehend that he may pass the bridge during the night and then burn it, so that you could render me no assistance. If such be the case, having but two brigades in front, I might find it difficult to resist him. Your only resource then would be to come around by way of New Market and cross the ferry at Columbia Bridge. If you are unable to employ your whole force sufficiently in his rear, I would respectfully suggest that a portion of it join me in this

bow! eainied. Lake 4 JAS. SHIELDS, Major-General.