Today in History:

742 Series I Volume V- Serial 5 - West Virginia

Page 742 OPERATIONS IN MD., N. VA., AND W. VA., Chapter XIV.

FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, March 10- 8.20 p .m.

Honorable E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

I have given all the orders necessary for the movement, and soon start for Washington, merely to spend the night. I want to join my headquarters near Alexandria early in the morning . I could not heave my troops to-night until I had done all in my power to expedite the movement.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, March 11, 1862.

General MARCY:

Telegraph to General Banks that the troops have all left Manassas, and probably the whole or the greater part of the troops have left Winchester, and that General McClellan desires that he push forward to that place as soon as possible, and hold himself in readiness to move with the whole or a part of his force on Manassas. In the order for the transportation to come to Washington do not include that for transportating wagons and animals from Perryville and Annapolis. Let them remain where they are, subject to other orders.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major-General.

FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, March 111, 1862-8.30 p. m.

Hon. E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

I have just returned from a ride of more than 40 miles. Have examined Centerville, Union Mills, Blackburn's Ford, &c. The rebels have left all their positions, and from the information obtained during our ride to-day I am satisfied that they have fallen behind the Rapidan, was very sudden. They left many wagons, some caissons, clothing, ammunition, personal baggage, &c. Their winter quarters were admirably constructed, many not yet quite finished. The works at Centerville are formidable; more so than Manassas. Except the turnpike, the roads are horrible. The country entirely stripped of the forage and provisions. Having fully consulted with General McDowell, I propose occupying Manassas by a portion of Banks' command, and then at once last week. The Monitor justifies this course. I telegraphed this morning to have the transports brought to Washington, to start from there., I presume you will approve this course. Circumstances may keep me out here some little time longer.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major-General.

FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, March 12, 1862-8.30 a. m.

Honorable E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

Summer's division occupies Union Mills and Manassas to-day. I could not occupy it from Centerville, as roads thence to Manassas are impassable for artillery and wagons. General Sumner will cover re-


Page 742 OPERATIONS IN MD., N. VA., AND W. VA., Chapter XIV.