Unknown to Nathaniel P. Banks, August 19, 1861

August 19, 1861.

Major-General BANKs, U. S. A., – Commanding, dec., Sandy Hook, Md. :

You are authorized to withdraw your batteries and troops from Maryland Heights and Harper’s Ferry, leaving a guard to observe the enemy, . and to take such position with your army as you deem best, between Frederick and the Potomae and on either side the Monocacy, to observe the enemy across the Potomac and protect the canal. If involved in or threatened with active operations you may absorb the upper part of Stone’s command or, in an extreme case, the whole of it within your reach.