Unknown to Nathaniel P. Banks, August 28, 1862

Manassas Junction, August 28, 1862.

I sent you a dispatch a few minutes ago directing you to move on Gum Spring to intercept Jackson. Since then I have received your note of this morning. I will this evening push forward Reno to Gainesville and follow with Heintzelman, unless there is a large force of the enemy at Centreville, which I do not believe. Ascertain, if you can, about this. I do not wish you to carry out the order to proceed to Gum Spring. if you consider it too hazardous, but I will support you in any way you suggest, by pushing forward from Manassas Junction across the turnpike. Jackson has a large train, which should certainly be cap tured. Give me your views fully; you know the country much better than I do. Come no farther in this direction with your command, but call back what has advanced thus far.