Unknown to Samuel B. Lawrence, July 17, 1864

[Lieut. Col. SamurL B. LAWRENCE :]

DEAR COLONEL: After the most unremitting labors by night and day in raising troops for the protection of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad and the line of the Susquehanna from Havre de Grace to Peach Bottom Ford I am informed that a few miserable busybodies, too cowardly to offer their own services, have assailed me most terribly for not disregarding the mustering regulations, and arming a mob of men without organization or cohesiveness, in order that those who preferred to remain at home might find a justification for their poltroonly conduct. My report of the operations here has gone on to the Adjutant-General, and I beg you erleao me the favor to ask to have it placed before the Secretary of War as soon as convenient, as I am told a ”committee” will ask for my removal.

Very truly, yours,

({inclosure.] The military commanders—Their disposition.

The following are the official orders of Major Judd in relation to raising troops, appointing commanders, and disposing of the forces raised in such a manner as to render the most efficient service in affording protection, not only to the great artery of communication with the National Capital—the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad—but also to our State and city. Everything has been done under the circumstances that could possibly be expected, and reflects great credit upon the patriotism and loyalty of our people. The record we here make will long be cherished by the actors in the scenes now transpiring around us as an evidence that in the hour of their country’s peril they performed their duties as patriots and good citizens :