Unknown to John C. Frémont, May 25, 1862

May 25, 1862. General FREMONT:

General Banks fell back yesterday from Strasburg to Winchester. To-day he has been driven from Winchester toward Harper’s Ferry. You must direct your attention to falling upon the enemy at whatever place you can find him with all speed. McDowell will also operate toward the same object with his force. You must not stop for supplies, but seize what you need and push rapidly forward; the object being to cut off and capture this rebel force in the Shenandoah.

Washington, May 27, 1862. Major-General Frimont, Petersburg, Va.:

General Banks was defeated, and forced to cross the Potomac at Williamsport, which he accomplished with no great loss of troops or stores. Well conducted retreat; brought off all his guns and 500 wagons. The enemy threatened General Geary at Thoroughfare Gap, on the Manassas Gap Railroad, yesterday, but whether in large or small force is not definitely known, nor is the present position of the enemy known. General McDowell has a strong force concentrated at Manassas to pursue the enemy and cut off his retreat, if he can be overtaken. Harper’s Ferry strongly occupied by our fresh troops and artillery, and no enemy known to be on the Lower Shenandoah. It is desirable that you move with celerity to prevent the escape of the

enemy. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.

MAY 27, 1862—9.58 p. m. Major-General FREMONT: