September 1, 1862 (Tuesday): Disunion

Chantilly Battlefield 1907 (Brettshulte.net)

Numbers 95. CENTREVILLE, September 1-8.50 a. m.
Major-General HALLECK:
    All was quiet yesterday and so far this morning. My men are resting; they need it much. Forage for our horses is being brought up. Our cavalry is completely broken down, so that there are not five horses to a company that can raise a trot. The consequence is that I am forced to keep considerable infantry along the roads in my rear to make them secure, and even then it is difficult to keep the enemy's cavalry off the roads. I shall attack again to-morrow if I can; the next day certainly. I think, it my duty to call your attention to the unsoldierly and dangerous conduct of many brigade and some division commanders of the forces sent here from the Peninsula. Every word and act and intention is discouraging, and calculated to break down the spirits of the men and produce disaster. One commander of a corps, who was ordered to march from Manassas Junction to join me near Groveton, although he was only 5 miles distant, failed to get up at all, and, worse still, fell back to Manassas without a fight, and in plain hearing, at less than 3 miles' distance, of a furious battle, which raged all day. It was only in consequence of peremptory orders that he joined me next day. One of his brigades, the brigadier-general of which professed to be looking for his division, absolutely remained all day at Centreville, in plain view of the battle, and made no attempt to join. What renders the whole matter worse, these are both officers of the Regular Army, who do not hold back from ignorance or fear. Their constant talk, indulged in publicly and in promiscuous company, is that the Army of the Potomac will not fight; that they are demoralized by withdrawal from the Peninsula, &c. When such example is set by officers of high rand the influence is very bad amongst those in subordinate stations.
    You have hardly an idea of the demoralization among officers of high rank in the Potomac Army, arising in all instances from personal feeling in relation to changes of commander-in-chief and others. These men are mere tools or parasites, but their example is producing, and must necessarily produce, very disastrous results. You should know these things, as you alone can stop to. Its source is beyond my reach, though its effects are very perceptible and very dangerous. I am endeavoring to do all I can, and will most assuredly put them where they shall fight or run away. My advice to you-I give it with freedom, as I know you will not misunderstand it-is that, in view of any satisfactory results, you draw back this army to the entrenchments in front of Washington, and set to work in that secure place to reorganize and rearrange it. You may avoid great disaster by doing so. I do not consider the matter except in a purely military light, and it is bad enough and grave enough to make some action very necessary. When there is no heart in their leaders, and every disposition to hang back, much cannot be expected from the men.
Please hurry forward cavalry horses to me under strong escort. I need them badly-worse than I can tell you.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General.

WASHINGTON, September 1, 1862.
Major-General McCLELLAN:
    General Pope was ordered this morning to fall back to line of fortifications and has been moving all day in this direction.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.


WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., September 1, 1862-10.20 a.m.
General McCLELLAN'S HEADQUARTERS, Alexandria:
    Is the general coming up to Washington; and, if so, at what hour will he be here? I am very anxious to see him.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
September 1, 1862.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    I shall start for Washington in a few minutes. I am now getting important information from a staff officer, who has just come in from the front. As soon as I can gather all the information he has I shall start at once for Washington.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


WAR DEPARTMENT, September 1, 1862-5.30 p.m.
Major-General PORTER,
Centreville, Commanding Fifth Corps:
    I ask of you for my sake, that of the country, and of the old Army of the Potomac, that you and all my friends will lend the fullest and most cordial co-operation to General Pope in all the operations now going on. The destinies of our country, the honor of our arms, are at stake, and all depends now upon the cheerful co-operation of all in the field. This week is the crisis of our fate. Say the same thing to my friends in the Army of the Potomac, and that the last request I have to make of them is that, for their country's sake, they will extend to General Pope the same support they ever have to me.
    I am in charge of the defenses of Washington, and am going all I can to render your retreat safe, should that become necessary.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.
    [Received September 1, 8.30 p.m.]


General McCLELLAN, near Alexandria, Va.:
    Bayard reports the enemy forming in on the Chantilly road, and my pickets that they are coming down the Little River turnpike. Twelve brass guns were seen, and infantry and cavalry. I can see the dust and flags; columns evidently moving directly north; evidently toward Leesburg. If you can, I hope you will protect the fords into Maryland and guard the railroad to Baltimore. I think we will have a fight before night. The enemy are between us and Faifax Court-House, and shelled our trains last night. We will fight, or they will avoid us and strike our rear first. We have been held on thirty-six hours too long, and we are bound to work our way to Alexandria. I only regret that we have not been distributed to forts and to the fords over the Potomac into Maryland. God speed your operations, and enable you and others in authority to save our country.
    Yours,


    F. J. PORTER,
    Major-General, Commanding.

Series I., Vol. 12, Part 3, Various

The focus should have been on the defense of the capital and the position of Lee's army in relation to the Union forces.  Yet so profound was the disunity of the commanders in the Army of the Potomac that Pope felt compelled to notify Halleck of a state of affairs just shy of mutiny.  Halleck, in turn, summoned McClellan (who only the day before sought an audience for likely very different reasons), and the result of their meeting appears in the extraordinary form of a plea by McClelan to his allies in the Army to cooperate with Pope.  At day's end, in falling darkness and a severe electrical storm, Jackson struck at the forces of Kearny and Stevens near Chantilly.  Stevens and Kearny were killed in action and the Confederates took 800 casualties, the Union 300. At this point Pope abandoned all plants to attack and withdrew to the defenses of Washington.  For now, the Union threat to Northern Virginia was removed, just as that to Richmond before it.  It was a remarkable start to General Robert E. Lee's command of the Army of Northern Virginia.

August 31, 1862 (Monday): "...Should this army be destroyed"

Colonel Fletcher Webster (son of Daniel Webster), killed at Manassas (NPS)

August 31, 1862.
    Commandants of brigades will detail a staff officer to at once proceed to General Pope's headquarters in Centreville, and apply to Colonel Smith for a sufficient quantity of ammunition to allow 60 rounds per man. Let there be no delay; the boxes must be carried by hand; there are no wagons to be had.
By command of Major-General Kearny:
G. W. MINDIL,

FALMOUTH, August 31, 1862-9 a.m.
General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN:
    Have you heard anything from Pope? Telegraph me in cipher.


    A. E. BURNSIDE.


McC., August 31, 1862-9.50 a.m.
Major General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Falmouth:
    Dispatch received. Pope fought all day yesterday, but retired in evening to Centreville. He did not gain a victory, I fear. We have little definite information.


    A. V. COLBURN,
   Assistant Adjutant-General.

Numbers 83. WASHINGTON, August 31, 1862-11 a. m. Major-General POPE:
    MY DEAR GENERAL: You have done nobly. Don't yield another inch if you can avoid it. All reserves are being sent forward. Couch's division goes to-day. Part of it went to Sangster's Station last night with Franklin and Sumner, who must be now with you. Can't you renew the attack? I don't write more particularly for fear dispatch will not reach you. I am doing all in my power for you and your noble army. God bless you and it.
    Send me news more often if possible.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

Numbers 87. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, Centreville, August 31, 1862-10.45 a. m.
Major-General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    Our troops are all here in position, though much used-up and worn-out. I think it would perhaps have been greatly better if Summer and Franklin had been here three or four days ago; but you may rely on our giving them as desperate a fight as I can force our men to stand up to.
    I should like to know whether you feel secure about Washington should this army be destroyed. I shall fight it as long as a man will stand up to the work. You must judge what is to be done, having in view the safety of the capital.
    The enemy is already pushing a cavalry reconnaissance in our front at Cub Run-whether in advance of an attack to-day I do not yet know. I send you this that you may know our position and my purpose.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
August 31, 1862.
Major General JOHN POPE,
U. S. Army, Commanding, &c.:
    SIR: Consideration for your wounded induces me to consent to your sending ambulances to convey them within your lines. I cannot consent to a truce or a suspension of military operations of this army. If you desire to send for your wounded, should your ambulances re port to Dr. Guild, medical director of this army, he will give directions for transportation.
    The wounded will be paroled, and it is understood that no delay will take place in their removal.
I am, respectfully, &c.,


    R. E. LEE,


Major-General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    DEAR GENERAL: Your dispatch of 11 a. m. has been received, and I that you for considerate commendation. I would be glad to have it in such shape that the army might be acquainted with it. We shall fight to the last. The whole secession army engaged us yesterday. I had a letter from Lee this morning. Ewell is killed. Jackson is badly wounded, and other generals of less note wounded. The plan of the enemy will undoubtedly be to turn my flank. If he does so he will have his hands full. My troops are in good heart.
    I need cavalry horses terribly. Send me 2,000 in lots and under strong escort. I have never yet received a single one.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General.

ALEXANDRIA DEPOT, VA.,
August 31, 1862-1.45 p.m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief, and
Major General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN,
Camp near Alexandria:
    I am just informed that Manassas is being evacuated again by our men and that Banks' forces are moving toward Centreville. I know very little of what is going on, but this movement would seem to indicate large re-enforcements of the enemy from the direction of the Rappahannock, particularly as our cars and engines at and near Bristoe were destroyed by our own men this morning. As our forces occupy Centreville, Fairfax, and Vienna, and in fact the whole line north of the railroad, there should be but little difficulty in our retaining possession of the triangle formed by the line of railroad from Bull Run to Alexandria, the steams of Bull Run, Occoquan, and the Potomac. If the bridges and fords on the Occoquan and Bull Run are guarded and cavalry scouts kept patrolling this triangle no enemy could approach the line of road. A stronger force is required at Bull Run. Our men are at work, and except to have Bull Run Bridge passable by to-morrow morning. Without artillery we cannot defend the bridge against artillery. If the crossings of the Occoquan are guarded, Bull Run Bridge is our most exposed point. Please give a thought to the suggestions.


    H. HAUPT.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Near Alexandria, Va., August 31, 1862-7.30 p.m.
(Received 8.20 p.m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    Having been informed that there was some 20,000 stragglers from Pope's army between this and Centreville, all of Gregg's cavalry have been sent to endeavor to drive them back to their regiments. Two hundred of Eighth Illinois Cavalry will be ready in the morning and 250 more as soon as disembarked.       The armament of Fort Buffalo is very incomplete.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Alexandria, August 31, 1862-10.25 p.m.
(Received 10.55 p.m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U. S. Army:
    I am ready to afford you any assistance in my power; but you will readily perceive how difficult an undefined position, such as I now hold, must be. At what hour in the morning can I see you alone, either at your own house or the office?


   GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
   Major-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., August 31, 1862-11.30 p.m.
Major-General McCLELLAN, Alexandria:
    General Halleck has gone to bed. I am directed to say he will see you at any time to-morrow morning that will suit your convenience.


    JNO. J. KEY,
    Major and Aide-de-Camp.

Official Records, Series I. Vol. 12, Part 3, Various Pages.

You get a feel for the situation Pope, Halleck, and McClellan faced when you read McClellan's account of 20,000 Union stragglers between Centreville and Alexandria.  Pope is equal parts bravado and panic.  He says if Lee tries to turn his flank he (Lee) will have his hands full, but also asks Halleck if Washington can be defended if his army is destroyed.  Lee is moving Jackson's troops to get around Pope's flank at Centreville.  Halleck is pressing Pope to attack, McClellan's troops coming up are being placed under Pope (much to his dismay), and indecision is the order of the day.

August 30, 1862 (Sunday): The Bearer Will Tell You Much

Second Manassas (Library of Congress)

HEADQUARTERS OF BATTLE,
Near Groveton, Va., August 30, 1862 - 5 a. m.
Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    We fought a terrific battle here yesterday with the combined forces of the enemy, which lasted with continuous fury from daylight until dark, by which time the enemy was driven from the field, which we now occupy. Our troops are too much exhausted yet to push matters, but I shall do so in the course of the morning, as soon as Fitz John Porter's corps comes up from Manassas. The enemy is still in our front, but badly used up. We have lost not less than 8,000 men killed and wounded, but from the appearance of the field the enemy lost at least two to one. He stood strictly on the defensive, and every assault was made by ourselves. Our troops behaved splendidly. The battle was fought on the identical battle-field of Bull Run, which greatly increased the enthusiasm of our men. The news just reaches me from the front that the enemy is retreating toward the mountains. I go forward at once to see. We have made great captures, but I am not able yet to form an idea of their extent.
    I think you had best send Franklin's, Cox's, and Sturgis' regiments to Centreville, as also forage and subsistence.
   I received a note this morning from General Franklin, written by order of General McClellan, saying that wagons and cars would be loaded and sent to Fairfax Station as soon as I would send a cavalry escort to Alexandria to bring them out. Such a request, when Alexandria is full of troops and we fighting the enemy, needs no comment.
    Will you have these supplies sent without the least delay to Centreville?


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General.


HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, CAMP NEAR ALEX., VA.,
August 30, 1862 - 9.15 a. m. Major-General HALLECK:
    Heavy artillery firing is now in progress in the direction of Fairfax Court-House. There has been a good deal of it for two or three hours. I hear it so distinctly that I should judge it to be this side of Fairfax. Have not been able to ascertain the cause. It seems that the garrisons in the works on north side of Potomac are altogether too small.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


WASHINGTON, D. C.,
August 30, 1862 - 9.40 a. m.
Major-General McCLELLAN, Alexandria, Va.:
    I am by no means satisfied with General Franklin's march of yesterday. considering the circumstances of the case, he was very wrong in stopping at Annandale. Moreover, I learned last night that the Quartermaster's Department could have given him plenty of transportation, if he had applied for it, any time since his arrived at Alexandria. He knew the importance of opening communication with General Pope's army, and should have acted more promptly.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 30, 1862-11.30 a.m.
Honorable ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States:
    Our operator has reached Manassas. Hears no firing of importance I have directed part of the 200 riflemen to go out as scouts, make observations, and report constantly. Two or three flashes just seen from Manassas in direction of Centreville.
    Our expedition this morning appears to have been successful. We have re-established telegraph communication with Manassas, and if protected will soon have cars running; but the military authorities heretofore have never extended to us the protection that was necessary, and we have assumed the responsibility of going ahead without it. Our telegraph operators and railway employes are entitled to great credit. They have been advanced pioneers, occupying the post of danger; and the exploit of penetrating to Fairfax and bringing off the wounded, when they supposed 20,000 rebels were on their front and flanks, was one of the boldest performances I have heard of.


    H. HAUPT.
    ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 30, 1862.

FALMOUTH, VA., August 30, 1862-12.30 a.m.
H. W. HALLECK, Commander-in-Chief:
    One of my cavalrymen just in from Manassas Junction; left there at 1 p.m.; says our troops in possession and fighting in the direction of Centreville. Our troops driving the rebels before them. There were trains of cars and wagon trains between Catlett's and Manassas, guarded by some of General Banks' corps. The country between here and Catlett's was free from rebels, and my scouts in all directions on this side the river represent the same thing. All that this man says indicates that Pope's men have been successful and are pursuing the enemy. He represents no scarcity of provisions and the men in good spirits. I hope to have more scouts return before morning. My scouts just in from the south side of the river found no enemy, and the indications are that no considerable force of the enemy is approaching this place. I shall learn what officer got up the stampede and report him to you. I have to telegraph to the Secretary of War to-night direct in reference to my medical director, which I hope you will not deem improper. I have withdrawn my advance telegraph station a short distance to a more defensible place, but keep all my pickets where they were.


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General.

WASHINGTON, August 30, 1862 - 2 p. m.
Major-General POPE:
     Yours of 5 a. m. is received. All matters have been attended to. Thirty thousand men are marching to your aid.
    Franklin should be with you now and Sumner to-morrow morning. All will be right soon, even if you should be forced to fall back. Let your army know that heavy re-enforcement are coming.
    Yours, truly,


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States:
It is represented to me that the engagement yesterday evening was very severe, but successful for our arms. Another engagement occurred this afternoon, but I have not yet learned the result.


    N. P. BANKS,
    Major-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, August 30, 1862.
Major-General BANKS, Manassas, Va.:
    General Pope's headquarters were at Groveton this morning. You can judge best from the firing where he now is. The enemy this morning was said to be falling back toward the mountains.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

AUGUST 30, 1862-2.06 p. m.
Major-General PORTER,
Commanding Corps:
    GENERAL: Our skirmishers report two batteries in position on the hill from which they fired at us this morning, and one battery on our left (their right of that.) The enemy seemed to be swinging around to their right (our left). The skirmishers' fire of the enemy crosses the position occupied by Roberts' brigade. I would not advise the posting of artillery anywhere here near the present position of the division until the enemy are driven from our right. Don't know that I would then, not understanding the ground beyond.


    Respectfully,
    BUTTERFIELD,


    Brigadier-General, Commanding.
    P. S.-One regiment of enemy on right, near their battery in the open.


[AUGUST 30, 1862.]
General MCDOWELL.
I fear for the result, unless you push Sigel up. Our right is also attacked.


    F. J. PORTER,
    Major-General, Commanding.


MANASSAS, VA., August 30, 1862.
Major General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN,
Alexandria, Va.:
    The firing has just commenced again. It is, as I judged, about 9 miles distant, and exactly northwest, which would bring it to a point near Gainesville or New Market.


    N. P. BANKS,
    Major-General.


WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, August 30, 1862.
Major-General BURNSIDE, Falmouth, Va.:
    Suspend the movement of your troops, except Williams' cavalry. The transports will remain at Aquia till to-morrow morning. Pope's successes will probably render your presence here unnecessary. He has fought a great battle, and so far successfully.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Alexandria, Va., August 30, 1862 - 5.40 p.m.
General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    Major Hammerstein, of my staff, reports from 2 miles this side of Centerville, at 1.30 p. m., that Franklin's corps was then advancing rapidly. Sumner's corps moved at 1.45 p. m. The orderly who brought the dispatch from Hammerstein states that he learned that the fighting commenced 5 miles beyond Centreville, and that our people had been driving them all day. Hammerstein says all he heard was favorable.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


FALMOUTH, VA., August 30, 1862.
(Received 6 p.m.)
Major-General HALLECK, General-in-chief:
    Your last dispatch indicates that we received orders to move from here, but we have received no orders to that effect, and will, as you direct, remain here. We are jubilant over the success of Pope, and hope to hear that he has completely routed the enemy. All is quiet in our front and at the upper fords, excepting the driving in of our pickets at Kelly's Ford I mentioned in my last dispatch. No particulars as yet have been received.


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General

Numbers 77. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, August 30, 1862-6 p. m.
General FRANKLIN:
     Post your command and whatever other troops you can collect and put them in the fortifications and other strong positions around Centreville, and hold those positions to the last extremity.
    By command of General Pope:


    GEO. D. RUGGLES,
    Colonel and Chief of Staff.

Numbers 79. AUGUST 30, 1862-6.30 p. m
General BANKS:
    Destroy the public property at Bristoe and fall back upon Centreville at once. Destroy all the railroad property. Your troops at Bristoe will withdraw through Brentsville. Your troops at Manassas and between there and Bristoe will withdraw to Centreville.
    By command of Major-General Pope:


    GEO. D. RUGGLES,
    Colonel and Chief of Staff.


HDQRS. THIRD ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
August 30, 1862.
Brigadier General GEORGE D. BAYARD,
Commanding Cavalry Brigade:
    GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you take your cavalry force (not Duffie's) and proceed on the road from Manassas to Gainesville, for the purpose of ascertaining the enemy's position and condition, and of annoying him if opportunity offers.
    Very respectfully, your obedient servant,


    ED. SCHRIVER,
    Colonel and Chief of Staff.

ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 30, 1862-9 p.m.
General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    It is reported by the operator at Manassas that there is skirmishing in the vicinity of Bristoe. May not this indicate an escape of the enemy toward Fredericksburg? I do not understand that we have much force in this direction to oppose such a movement.


    H. HAUPT.

Numbers 82. CENTREVILLE, August 30, 1862-9.45 p. m.
Major-General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    We have had a terrific battle again to-day. The enemy, largely re-enforced, assaulted our position early to-day. We held our ground firmly until 6 p. m., when the enemy, massing very heavy forces on our left, forced back that wing about half a mile. At dark we held that position. Under all the circumstances, both horses and men having been two days without food; and the enemy greatly outnumbering us, I thought it best to draw back to this place at dark. The movement has been made in perfect order and without loss.    The troops are in good heart, and marched off the field without the least hurry or confusion. Their conduct was very fine. The battle was most furious for hours without cessation, and the losses on both sides very heavy. The enemy is badly crippled, and we shall do well enough. Do not be uneasy. We will hold our own here. The labors and hardships of this army for two or three weeks have been beyond description. We have delayed the enemy as long as possible without losing the army. We have damaged him heavily, and I think the army entitled to the gratitude of the country. Be easy; everything will go well.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General.

    P. S.- We have lost nothing; neither guns nor wagons.



CENTREVILLE, August 30, 1862.
(Received September 1, a.m.)
[Major-General McCLELLAN:]
    MY DEAR GENERAL: I send you copies of some orders under which I have moved lately. I advanced in pursuit of the enemy and struck the center of his line, especially under the direction of General Lee, and was whipped, as was the whole army, badly-that is, I was overpowered. Two of Morell's brigades were in action under Butterfield, and two of Sykes' (Buchanan and Chapman), and they did nobly. The latter lost by volunteers firing into them before passing through them. They were not sustained on the right, and had to retire. The Pennsylvania Reserves did beautifully. They show the advantage of being well led by Reynolds, Meade, Seymour, and Jackson. A battery was lost and retaken by them, but again lost after gallant resistance. Warren has only 187 men left-not one missing-and only 3 commissioned officers.    We were driven from the field, and here we are, after marching all last night, strongly located in a position which, if the enemy shells, will cause slaughter; but I do not believe he will attack, but get in our rear, and compel us to attack him in well-selected place. The men are without heart, but will fight when cornered. To-day General Pope asked the question of the Government if arrangements had been made to protect Washington in case the army met with a disaster. He said to us (chief of corps present), when the reply was received, that he was glad the Government had decided the question for him, but we were to fight wherever the enemy was-meaning we were not to return to Alexandria, &c., as all forces were coming to us. I believe the decision was a general disappointment, except to him. However, we obey, and do what Halleck thinks is best. Pope says there are political considerations which control, not the safety of the army; but our men will not fight with heart when they know, if wounded (as we cannot retain the field against present odds), they are to be left to the care of the enemy. Pope sent in a flag to-day to get our wounded. I have many officers in their hands, some of the most valuable, from every State. Our wagons are gone, and our artillery and cavalry will not soon be movable. The latter is broken down, and, as Pope says, he has no cavalry, though he has regiments. We have taken very few prisoners (some 400). In return, we have left all our killed and most of our wounded in their hands. The enemy got one battery of six pieces yesterday; I believe it belonged to Reynolds. The enemy took Manassas, one battery, and left one piece spiked and useless. It was left on the ground when we abandoned Manassas. I hear it is claimed we captured it.
    We are bivouacking, and, as I have no dinner or supper to-day and no chance of any to-morrow, I will bid you good-by, in the hope of soon seeing you (without being whipped), and that you have plenty to eat. If we return, I hope the forces will be directed to take different roads to the forts, and that they will be well manned and protected by us. I do not wish to see the army back if it can be helped; but I fear it may be kept here at the will of the enemy, to cripple it so that when it does get back it will be so crippled that it cannot defend the forts against the powerful enemy who will hold it here while they cross into Maryland. I may be in error as to their purpose.
    Lee is here; Jackson is not now here. Cadmus Wilcox commands Hill's division directly in front, and the enemy are massing to turn us. I expect to hear hourly of our rear being cut and our supplies and trains (scarcely guarded) at Fairfax Station being destroyed, as we are required to stay here and fight. I am glad Couch is coming up on the road. Hope we will have the fight before he gets here, as so much will be saved for another day. I understand the Secretary of the Interior sent out some men to take care of our wounded, and they were much surprised to find that they were in the hands of the enemy. They return with a different impression from what they came. Good night. The bearer will tell you much.


    F. J. PORTER,
    Major-General.

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 12, Part 2, Various Pages.

The fog on war is on full display.  For most of the day reports back to Halleck and McClellan were of Union successes.  After the attacks of the previous day, Pope ordered more attacks on Jackson's position.  He does not seem to have taken into account the possibility Longstreet had reached the field.  Longstreet's Corp, like a door swinging on a hinge, counterattacked and devastated the Union left.  In a repeat of 1st Bull Run, darkness foreclosed a complete rout and the Union Army limped back into the defenses of the Capital.  Also on display here are hints of the factious nature of the Army, divided as it was between "McClellan Men" and those, like Pope, more popular with the Lincoln administration. 

Major-General.

August 29, 1862 (Saturday): Talk of Bagging Jackson was "Bosh".

General Fitz-John Porter

WASHINGTON, D. C., August 29, 1862 - 12.50 a. m.
General McCLELLAN, Alexandria:
    It is reported to headquarters that Lee is advancing on Washington to-night, probably by the Chain Bridge. I doubt whether these works can be held with the raw troops. Can you not send a regiment there?
There is no artillery in Battery Martin Scott, nor any artillery at hand to sweep the bridge. I shall increase the force as much as the new troops at hand will permit. I would like your advice as to whether to hold the works or destroy the bridge. Can you not send a field battery?


    J. G. BARNARD.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
Centreville, August 29, 1862.
Major General FITZ JOHN PORTER:
    Push forward with your corps and King's division, which you will take with you, upon Gainesville. I am following the enemy down the Warrenton turnpike. Be expeditious or we will lose much.


   JNO. POPE,
   Major-General, Commanding.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, August 29, 1862.
Major-General BURNSIDE, Falmouth, Va.:
    I have heard nothing from Pope for four days, except through you. He seems to have permitted a part of the enemy's force to march around him. Unless he opens his communications to-day I fear he will be forced south of the Occoquan. I am only waiting to hear from him in order to move you.


H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.


FALMOUTH, VA., August 29, 1862 - 8.40 a. m.
Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
The following dispatch has just been received:

ADVANCE, 29th.
    There has been very heavy cannonading in the direction of Warrenton Junction all morning. It seemed to be getting more distinct, but had now ceased.


   A. E. BURNSIDE.
   FALMOUTH, VA., August 29, 1862 - 8.50 a. m.


Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    Our advance telegraph operator reports that firing has again commenced in the direction of Manassas. Are you in communication with General Pope? In case telegraph communication is cut off between this place and Washington, shall I use my discretion or await orders from you by the river?


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General.

FALMOUTH, VA., August 29, 1862 - 8.50 a. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    The following statement is from a Union man just in from Richmond. He seems to be reliable.
B. B. Pritchard left Richmond on the evening of the 27th. Few troops there, and they are at Dreqry's Bluff. No troops at Hanover Court-House. A brigade stationed near Mount Carmel Church. Troops and provisions still going to Gordonsville. Provisions very scarce. Three gunboats, small river boats, with guns mounted, at Richmond. At work on ram; supposed to progress slowly. At work on machinery at Talbot's Government Foundery. Tredegar and Rahne's works making munitions of war. General Lee at Drewry's Bluff; Lovell, Magruder, and Huger relieved from command; Johnston still off duty, and Beauregard supposed to be crazy.


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General.

FALMOUTH, VA., August 29, 1862 - 1 p. m.
H. W. HALLECK, Major-General:
The following message just received:
ADVANCE, 29th - 12.45 p. m.
General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE:
    Messenger that left Pope's army this morning about 6 o'clock reports our forces within 2 miles of Manassas Junction. He says when about 1 1/2 miles from our forces heavy cannonading - commenced by the rebels he thinks. He left railroad at Catlett's Station, coming direct here by short road. He was informed by a contraband that there were some 1,000 or 1,500 rebel cavalry between Warrenton and the Junction.


    CHERRY,
    Telegraph Operator.


FALMOUTH, VA., August 29, 1862 - 1 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief, and
Major General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN, Alexandria:
The following just received from Porter, 4 miles form Manassas, the 28th, 2 p.m.:
    All that talk of bagging Jackson, &c., was bosh. That enormous Gap (Manassas) was left open and the enemy jumped through, and the store of McDowell having cut off Longstreet had no good foundation. The enemy have destroyed all our bridges, burned trains, &c., and made this army rush back to look after its line of communication and find our base of subsistence. We are far from Alexandria, considering this moving of transportation. Your supply train of 40 wagons is here, but I can't find them. There is a report that Jackson is at Centreville, which you can believe or not. The enemy destroyed an immense amount of property at Manassas - cars and supplies. I expect the next thing will be a raid no our rear by way of Warrenton by Longstreet, who was cut off.


    F. J. PORTER,
    Major-General.

CAMP NEAR ALEXANDRIA,
August 29, 1862-2.45 p.m.
    The last news I received from the direction of Manassas was from stragglers, to the effect that the enemy were evacuating Centreville and retiring toward Thoroughfare Gap. This by no means reliable.
I am clear that one of two courses should be adopted: First, to concentrate all our available forces to open communications with Pope; Second, to leave Pope to get out of his scrape, and at once use all our means to make the capital perfectly safe.
    No middle ground will now answer. Tell me what you wish me to do, and I will do all in my power to accomplish it. I wish to know what my orders and authority are. I ask for nothing, but will obey whatever orders you give. I only ask a prompt decision, that I may at once give the necessary orders. It will not do to delay longer.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President.
And copy to General Halleck.
WASHINGTON, August 29, 1862-4.10 p.m.
    Yours of to-day just received. I think your first alternative, to wit, "to concentrate all our available forces to open communication with Pope," is the right one, but I wish not to control. That I now leave to General Halleck, aided by your counsels.


    A. LINCOLN.

HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD,
August 29, 1862-4.30 p.m.
Major-General PORTER:
    Your line of march brings you in on the enemy's right flank. I desire you to push forward into action at once on the enemy's flank, and, if possible, on his rear, keeping your right tin communication with General Reynolds. The enemy is massed in the woods in front of us, but can be shelled out as soon as you engage their flank. Keep heavy reserves, and use your batteries, keeping well closed to your right all the time. In case you are obliged to fall back, do so to your right and rear, so as to keep you in close communication with the right wing.


    JOHN POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding

HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, CAMP NEAR ALEX., VA.,
August 29, 1862 - 10 p. m. (Received 10.50 p. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
The following has just been received by an orderly:
ANNANDALE, August 29, 1862 - 7.15 p.m .
    GENERAL: The news here, picket up form all sources passing along the road, is as follows: Jackson left Centreville yesterday afternoon to march through ThrougfareGap. He was confronted by Sigel, whom he attacked immediately. Sigel was re-enforced by Heintzelman and Porter to-day. McDowell by noon was 4 miles from the field, and was merely waiting for his ammunition to come up to join him. The field of battle is near Gainesville. Sigel fought al day yesterday, slept on the enemy's ground, and this morning at 5 o'clock was attacked, and the cannonading was very heavy when a certain sutler, one of the parties who gives the information, left there. From all the evidence the inference is that we have met with no disaster and that Stonewall is in a tight place, unless he leaves to-night by Aldie. Jackson had with him yesterday three divisions - his own, Ewell's, and Hill's - amounting to 40,000 men. Birney held Centreville this morning and pursued Jackson, picking up many stragglers. The enemy left Centreville last evening. Many of the rebel dead are lying near Centreville. Birney ceased the pursuit on learning the force of the enemy. All of the best witnesses and all of the citizens who have passed consider Jackson in a dangerous position. Pope's train is parked this side of Centreville.


    Truly, yours,
    W. B. FRANKLIN,
     Major-General, Commanding Sixth Corps.


     P. S. - Pope is said to be very short of provisions, and the country will not support him.


GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
Major-General.
FALMOUTH, VA., August 29, 1862 - 8 p. m.
General H. W. HALLECK:
No attack has been made in front and none is anticipated in that direction. We have nothing to fear, unless from the right, should General Pope be overpowered, which I hope is not the case. The troops are well posted and all the have stores and baggage sent away, and in any event the place will be held as long as possible.
    Since writing the above your dispatch, inclosing the one from General Pope, is received. Am glad to hear affairs are progressing so well.


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
In the Field, near Bull Run, August 29, 1862-8.50 p.m.
Major General F. J. PORTER:
    GENERAL: Immediately upon receipt of this order, the precise hour of receiving which you will acknowledge, you will march your command to the field of battle of to-day, and report to me in person for orders. You are to understand that you are expected to comply strictly with this order, and to be present on the field within three hours after its reception, or after daybreak to-morrow morning.


    JOHN POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding
WASHINGTON, D. C., August 29, 1862.
Major-General POPE:
    Trains will be started immediately to reconstruct bridges and carry out supplies. Yours of yesterday, 10 p. m., is the first I have received from your for four days. Live on the country as much as possible till we can supply you. Push the enemy as much as possible, but be sure to keep up your connection with Alexandria.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

ALEXANDRIA, August 29, 1862 - 9.40 p. m.
(Received 11 p. m.)
President LINCOLN and General HALLECK:
    General Pope was at Centreville this morning at 6 o'clock. Seemed to be in good spirits. Hooker is driving the enemy before him; McDowell and sigel cutting off his retreat. Army out of forage and subsistence. Force of enemy 60,000. This is the substance of information communicated by two ambulance drives, who came in from Centreville, and who also gave many particulars confirming previous statements. I have ordered a train of forage and another of subsistence to be got ready to start before daylight, and will notify General Pope to-night by courier that he can have wagons to receive it at Sangster's Station by daylight to-morrow morning.


H. HAUPT.

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 12, Part 2, Various Pages.

Pope began the day with a 3-1 advantage and a chance to defeat Jackson before Longstreet could come onto the field.  But he made piecemeal attacks which failed to drive Jackson away from his position behind an unfinished railroad.  Longstreet arrived in the afternoon, but delayed making an immediate attack.  It is significant that Halleck is sending messages to Pope saying he had not been contacted by him in four days.  Meanwhile McClellan, in command but ordered by Halleck to send orders to Pope through him, is proposing options to Lincoln and Halleck.  The President expresses an opinion on McClellan's proposals, but says he has no wish to control his decisions.  Meanwhile, Burnside provides the following status report on the whereabouts of various Confederate generals, "General Lee at Drewry's Bluff; Lovell, Magruder, and Huger relieved from command; Johnston still off duty, and Beauregard supposed to be crazy."  And Porter predicts Longstreet's imminent attack while offering a critique of Pope's boast of bagging Jackson.

August 28, 1862 (Friday): The Eve of 2nd Manassas

Brawner's Farm (NPS.gov)

RICHMOND, VA., August 28, 1862.
General R. E. LEE,
Commanding, &c., Salem, via Rapidan, Va.:
   Dispatch of 27th received. * Congratulate you upon events recited. Letters of 23rd and 24th received to-day. The re-enforcements asked for by you have been sent forward, and the cavalry to which you refer particularly should have joined you by this time. General Pendleton left here fully possessed of my views and charged to communicate them to you.


    JEFFERSON DAVIS.

*Not found. 

HEADQUARTERS,
Near Warrenton Junction, August 28, 1862 - 12.37 a. m.
Major-General PORTER, Warrenton Junction:
    GENERAL: I have this moment received your note of the 27th instant, directing me to hasten with all speed to Warrenton Junction. My corps reached here last night at dark, and is now encamped 1 1/2 miles south of the Warrenton Junction. Is it desired that we move forward immediately or wait until daylight?   Please answer.
    General Porter sends an order for two batteries of artillery to join General Heintzelman in the direction of Greenwich. They will be sent forward immediately.
    Very respectfully, your obedient servant,


   N. P. BANKS,
   Major-General, Commanding Second Corps, Army of Virginia.

Major-General HALLECK:
A courier just arrived with the following from General F. J. Porter:
BRISTOE, August 28, 1862 - 9.30 a. m.
    My command will soon be up, and will at once go into position. Hooker drove Ewell some 3 miles, and Pope says McDowell intercepted Longstreet, so that, without a long detour, he cannot join Ewell, Jackson, and A. P. Hill, who are, or supposed to be, at Manassas. Ewell's train, he says, took the road to Gainesville, where McDowell is coming from. We shall be to-day as follows: I on right of railroad, Heintzelman on left, then Reno, then McDowell. He hopes to meet Ewell and push to Manassas to-day, I hope all goes well near Washington. I think there need be no cause of fear for us. I feel as if on my way now, and thus far have kept my command and trains well up. More supplies than I supposed on hand have been brought, but none to spare, but we must make connection soon. I hope for the best. You will hear of us soon by way of Alexandria.


    F. J. PORTER,
    Major-General.




Numbers 64. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, Manassas Junction, August 28, 1862-2 p. m.
Major-General McDOWELL:
    I sent you a dispatch a few minutes ago directing you to move on Green [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 Green Spring if you consider it too hazardous, but I will support you in any way you suggest by pushing forward front Manassas Junction across the Turnpike. Jackson has large train, which certainly should be captured. Give me you views fully; you know the country much better than I do. Come to gather in this direction with you command, but call back what has advanced thus far.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding.

August 29, 1862-2.30 p. m.
Major-General BURNSIDE, Falmouth, Va.:
    Any further news? Does Colonel Devin mean that sound of firing was heard in direction of Warrenton, as stated, or in direction of Warrenton Junction?*


    A. LINCOLN.

*See p. 732. +See p. 758. 


AUGUST 28, 1862-2.40 p. m.
Colonel HAUPT, Alexandria, Va:
    Yours received. How do you learn that the rebel forces at Manassas are large, and commanded by several of their best generals?


    A. LINCOLN.




ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 28, 1862.
(Received 2.45 p. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    From a full conversation with Colonel Scammon I am satisfied that the enemy is in large force between us and Pope. One of his surgeons, who was taken and released, saw Jackson, A. P. Hill, and three other generals. At about 5 p. m. yesterday the re was heavy cannonading in direction of Manassas. it is my opinion that any movement made from here must be in force, with cavalry and artillery, or we shall be beaten in detail. Can you find a squadron to go to Vienna, via Lewinsville, and ascertain whether enemy there? The right of our line of works on this side the river should be most carefully watched and pickets well out on all roads. Vedettes should extend at least to lewinsville and Prospect Hill - if possible to Meridian Hill and on the ridge thence to Dranesville. It is of vital importance to know what there is near Vienna at once. The impressions I receive from Scammon are corroborated form other sources. I don't see how McDowell can well be at Gainesville. It is of vital importance to know what there is near Vienna at once. The impressions I receive from Scammon are corroborated from other sources. I don't see how McDowell can well be at Gainesville. Have this moment received intelligence from a prisoner, captured the other night and just escaped, that he saw Jackson, Stuart, and Minke [?]; that the enemy were 30,000 strong in vicinity of Manassas and being re-enforced constantly. I suggest that you take into consideration the propriety of Pope falling back via Davis', Spiggs', and Bradley's Fords, &c., between the Occoquan and Potomac, and rejoined vie Wolf Run Shoals, Occoquan, &c., our best troops here advancing, say to-morrow morning or to-night, if ready, so far as Fairfax, Brimstone Hill, and Wolf Run Shoals, to cover the movement. I do not think it now worth while to attempt to preserve the railway. The great object is to collect the whole army in Washington, ready to defend the works and act upon the flank of any force crossing the Upper Potomac. If Pope makes this movement, steps must be taken at once to build pontoon bridges over the Occoquan.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.



ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 28, 1862 - 3 p. m.
(Received 3.10 p. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    Have just talked with the prisoners who escaped from Bristoe and Manassas. There is no doubt that Jackson, Ewell, Stuart, and A. P. Hill are there. The man tells a very straight story. He heard them say that they passed within 4 miles of Pope's pickets. I will push everything to get this command ready to move with effect in any direction.
    Information is coming in more rapidly. I have that we hill be well posted by evening.
    I think we need definite information in direction of Vienna.


    GEO. G. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
August 28, 1862. (Received 3.15 p. m.)
General I. McDOWELL, Commanding:
    GENERAL: I am directed by the general commanding to say that the enemy has retreated in the direction of Centreville, or the right of that place, form here, and that he wishes you to pursue in that direction.
You had best, perhaps, keep somewhat to the north of Centreville, say in the direction of Plum Valley or Gum Spring. Find out, if possible, by your cavalry were he is. In searching for him with your cavalry you had better mass it and put a battery of artillery with it.
    I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,


    W. L. ELLIOTT,
    Brigadier-General and Chief of Cavalry.

   P. S. - Go light, and if you think it desirable send your trains in this direction.



WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., August 28, 1862 - 3.30 p. m.
Major-General McCLELLAN, Alexandria:
    Not a moment must be lost in pushing as large a force as possible toward Manassas, so as to communicate with Pope before the enemy is re-enforced. I directed General Barnard to report to you, and do not know where he is. In Barnard's absence Whipple can tell you about the garrisons of the forts.   No message from Pope has reached here.


    H. W. HALLECK,
   General-in-Chief.

WASHINGTON, August 28, 1862.
    I think you had better place Sumner's corps as it arrives near the fortifications, and particularly at the Chain Bridge. The principal thing to be feared now is a cavalry raid into this city, especially in the night-time. Use Cox's and Tyler's brigades and the new troops for the same object, if you need them. Porter writes to Burnside from Bristoe, 9.30 a.m. yesterday, that Pope's forces were then moving on Manassas, and that Burnside would soon hear of them by way of Alexandria. General Cullum has gone to Harper's Ferry, and I have only a single regular officer for duty in the office.
Please send some of your officers to-day to see that every precaution is taken at the forts against a raid; also at the bridge. Please answer.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.



CAMP NEAR ALEXANDRIA, August 28, 1862 - 4.45 p. m.
(Received 6.15 p. m.)
 Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    Your dispatch received. Neither Franklin nor Sumner's corps is now in condition to move and fight a battle. It would be a sacrifice to send them out now. I have sent aides to ascertain the condition of the command of Cox and Taylor, but I still think that a premature movement in small force will accomplish nothing but the destruction of the troops sent out.
     I report that I will lose no time in preparing the troops now here for the field, and that whatever orders you may give after hearing what I have say will be carried out.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.





FALMOUTH, VA., August 28, 1862.
Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
News from Warrenton Junction as follows:
    Porter's, Heintzelman's, and Banks' corps were at Warrenton Junction this a. m. at 7, and under orders to move and moving in the direction of Manassas Junction and Gainesville. All the movements seem to be quiet and the army in good condition.
    The following dispatch just received from Colonel Devin. I await a reply from you before answering him:

BARNETT'S FORD - 4.15 p. m.
General PARKE:
    All is quiet at the fords at this date. Are any more troops to move up from Fredericksburg to-night? Are we to continue to watch all fords from Rappahannock eastward, and have to look for any enemy by the roads leading from the direction of Manassas to these fords? There is no force at my ford now that can hold it. My reasons for asking are that some of my men returned from General Pope's army and had a fight yesterday; and if the enemy retreated as reported, will they not come this way?


    THOS. C. DEVIN,
    Colonel.


A. E. BURNSIDE,
Major-General.
FALMOUTH, VA., August 28, 1862 - 5.40 p. m.
Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    If we are ordered to fall back it should be by way of Aquia Creek.


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General, Commanding.

MANASSAS JUNCTION, August 28, 1862 - 10 p. m.
(Received 6.45 p. m., August 29.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
    As soon as I discerned that a large force of the enemy was turning our right toward Manassas, and that the division I had ordered to take post there two days before had not yet arrived there from Alexandria, I immediately broke up my camp at Warrenton Junction and Warrenton and marched rapidly back in three columns.
    I directed McDowell, with his own and Sigel's corps and Reynolds' division, to march upon Gainesville by the Warrenton and Alexandria pike; Reno and one division of Heintzelman's to march on Greenwich,
and with Porter's corps and Hooker's division I marched back to Manassas Junction. McDowell was ordered to interpose between the force of the enemy which had passed down to Manassas through Gainesville and his main body moving down form White Plains through Thoroughfare Gap. This was completely accomplished, Longstreet, who had passed through the Gap, being driven back to the west side. the forces sent to Greenwich were designed to support McDowell in case he met too large a force of the enemy. The division of Hooker marching toward Manassas came upon the enemy near Kettle Run in the afternoon of the 27th, and after a sharp action routed them completely; killing and wounding 300, capturing their camps and baggage and many stand of arms. This morning the command pushed rapidly to Manassas Junction, which Jackson has evacuated three hours in advance. He retreated by Centreville and took the turnpike toward Warrenton, but was met 6 miles west of Centreville by McDowell and Sigel.       Late this afternoon, a severe fight took place, which was terminated by darkness. The enemy was driven back at all points, and thus the affair rests. Heintzelman's corps will move on him at daylight from Centreville, and I do not see how it is to escape without heavy loss. Reno is at Centreville, and will for the present remain there, with Fitz John Porter at Manassas. Banks, with most of our railroad trains, is at Kettle Run, where the bridge was burned. I desire that a strong construction corps be sent at once to Bull Run to build the bridge, and at the same time push forward and build the bridge at Kettle Run, so I can bring back the trains to Manassas. The damage to the road is not great; the check the enemy has received will certainly delay him long enough for us to get our trains back.
    We have captured 1,000 prisoners, many arms, and one piece of artillery.
    I will communicate with you further in the morning.
     I wish forage and provisions sent immediately as far as the railroad is unobstructed, and let me know where that is.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General.



FALMOUTH, VA., August 28, 1862 - 10 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
Major General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN, Alexandria:
    A messenger just in from General Porter - left him at 10.30 a. m. to-day at Bristoe Station - reports the bridge and station house at that place burned. An engagement took place near there yesterday between Hooker and a portion of Jackson's force, which resulted in the withdrawal of the enemy, leaving their killed and wounded on the field. Our loss reported from 300 to 500; enemy's about the same. Warrenton Junction and Bealeton were being evacuated by our troops, who are moving toward Gainesville and Manassas Junction. He reports heavy firing in the direction of Hay Market this morning, which lasted for more than an hour. This is all verbal information, and I cannot vouch for it. I still hold the upper fords with a small cavalry force. Is this right?


    A. E. BURNSIDE,
    Major-General.


Numbers 66. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF VIRGINIA, Near Bull Run, August 28, 1862-10 p.. m.
Major-General HEINTZELMAN:
    GENERAL: General McDowell has intercepted the retract of the enemy. Sigel is immediately on his right, and I see no possibility of his escape. I have instructed Kearny to push forward cautiously at 1 o'clock to-night until he drives in the pickets of the enemy, and to assault him vigorously at daylight in the morning. It is of the last importance that Hooker shall march at 3 o'clock to-night, taking the turnpike from Centreville to Warrenton, and resting on that road 1 1\2 miles beyond Centreville, as a reserve for Kearny. Send a copy of this dispatch to Hooker immediately; and I beg you particularly to see that Hooker marches at the time specified, even if he should have to do so with one-half of his men. I shall rely upon this.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding.

AUGUST 28, 1862 - 10.45 p. m.
General McDOWELL:
    GENERAL: From prisoners taken to-night there is no doubt that Jackson's main force is in our immediate front. Our position is not tenable, and we shall fall back toward Manassas, with the expedition of meeting forces sent to our support. If Ricketts should attempt to join us he might be cut off unless he falls back by the way of Greenwich. Prisoners report Jackson has 60,000 or 70,000 men.
Gibbon's brigade was pretty badly cut up - Colonels O'Connor, Cutler, and Robinson being wounded, Major May killed.
    Doubleday's brigade also suffered severely.
    Colonel O'Connor has just died.


   RUFUS KING,
   Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 12, Part 1, Various Pages.

After capturing the Union supply depot at Manassas, Jackson retired west of  town to Stony Ridge.  There he waited as elements of his command gradually arrived, with Longstreet still to the west at Thoroughfare Gap.  Pope believed he would be able to attack Jackson before Longstreet arrived, and set about trying to fix his exact location.  Arriving at Manassas early in the day, Pope discovered Jackson had withdrawn.  This lead Pope to believe Jackson was headed back to the Valley.  Late in the afternoon King's Division was moving east along the Warrenton Pike when Jackson's artillery opened fire on it, bringing on the Brawner's Farm engagement.  Jackson had realized he had to do something to prevent Pope from retiring to strong defensive positions around Centreville, awaiting the rest of McClellan's forces.  Even though the odds were against him, Jackson likely believed a bold posture would discourage Pope from being too aggressive before Longstreet could arrive.

August 27, 1862 (Thursday) "Have you any news..."

Old Bristoe Station (NVCC.edu)

ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862- 8 a.m.
I arrived here last night, and have taken measures to ascertain the state of affairs here, and that proper remedies may be applied. Just received a rumor that railway bridge over Bull Run was burned last night.


GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
Major-General.

ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862.
General BURNSIDE:
Have you any news from the front this morning?


GEO. B. McCLELLAN.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., August 27, 1862.
Major-General POPE,
via Falmouth:
    The enemy is concentrating, it seems, between you and Alexandria, near Manassas and Bull Run. You must look out for this and immediately break it up, for your supplies must come from Washington, and you must fall back in this direction if compelled to retreat. Do not let him separate you from Alexandria. We will send out troops to meet you, but we are short of transportation. Keep me advised, if possible.


H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.

HDQRS. THIRD ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
Warrenton, Va., August 27, 1862.
[Major-General POPE?]:
     Your telegram of 12 midnight is only just received. I will endeavor to have Buford ascertain as soon as he can, and as far as he can, the extent of the enemy's movement toward White Plains. I saw General Sigel late last night and his scouts, and did not learn that the general had any other information than I gave you in my telegram of 10 o'clock p.m., and he was not aware of the negro's statement, which I sent you at 9 o'clock p.m. Your telegram of 11 p.m. last night was received. My corps is at present posted as follows: King's division on Sulphur Springs road, one brigade near Springs; Ricketts on Waterloo road, about 4 miles from town; Reynolds inside and between the others.


IRVIN McDOWELL,
Major-General.


WARRENTON, VA., August 27, 1862-8.45.
Major-General POPE:
I have just received your telegram of 5.30 a.m. I have ordered Sigel to send immediately a strong advance from his corps to seize the position of Buckland Mills or Broad Run, and follow immediately with his corps. Can you spare time to come to the instrument and have a conversation with me?


IRVIN McDOWELL,
Major-General.


FAIRFAX, VA.-8.50 a.m.
Colonel HAUPT:
Heavy cannonading commenced, probably at Manassas, about 15 minutes since.

BRAYTON.

Major-General McCLELLAN.
WASHINGTON, August 27, 1862.
    I can get no satisfactory information from the front, either of the enemy or of our troops. There seems to have been great neglect and carelessness about Manassas. Franklin's corps should march in that direction as soon as possible. A competent officer should be sent out to take direction of affairs in that vicinity.


H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.

ALEXANDRIA DEPOT, VA., August 27, 1862-10.50 a.m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    I venture the suggestion: As soon as the cars return which carried troops to Union Mills I propose to load the whole with subsistence, but on top and inside 1,500 or 2,000 more men, and endeavor by all means to work the train through. The most serious matter, if true, is the capture of some pieces of our artillery, which, if turned against our trains, would render an advance impossible. I am told that a battery left here yesterday and should this morning be near Manassas, but I fear it has no infantry support. I am not advised of any movement, except those made under my direction, by rail. Do you approve of my sending forward the subsistence train in manner proposed? If so, please answer. I would suggest that artillery, with a good infantry support, should be sent forward immediately. I propose this plan: Load a battery or part of a battery on cars, carry with it a sufficient infantry support; let this precede the supply train to some point where the battery can be unloaded and advanced by common road to Manassas, to recapture, if possible, the pieces taken, and prevent them from being used against the train. I have a strong force. One wrecking and one construction train now on the ground, with very efficient men. The track will be cleared and reconstructed in the shortest possible time, so as to advance trains.


H. HAUPT.

ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-11.20 a.m.
   In view of Burnside's dispatch, just received, would it not be advisable to thrown the mass of Sumner's corps here to move out with Franklin to Centreville or vicinity? Lower Rappahannock in a dangerous position. They would do better service in front of Washington.


GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
Major-General.
 
Major-General HALLECK, Washington, D. C.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST CORPS, ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
Buckland Bridge, Va., August 27, 1862-11.40.
Major-General MCDOWELL,
Commanding Third Corps:
    I have driven the enemy's cavalry, which was one mile this side of the bridge, from the bridge. The bridge had been set on fire, which was extinguished, and I am now in possession of the same. Two pieces of artillery have been posted this side of the bridge. The brigade of General Milroy is now crossing. The enemy had some cavalry and one piece of artillery shown on the opposite side of the creek. The bridge will be repaired at once by my pioneers.
    Respectfully, yours,


   F. SIGEL,
   Major-General.


ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 27, 1862-11.60 a.m.
General HANCOCK,
General-in-Chief:
   General Hancock informs me that he has heard for two hours past heavy cannonading in the direction of Centreville. There is nothing between here and there; I understand there is some cavalry here. The report of artillery has not been heard for the past half hour. Information from train conductor. The troops that left at 5 were taken to Union Mills and while unloading the fighting was heard 2 miles beyond. Both artillery and musketry were heard. An officer reported we had lost two batteries-eight guns. A portion of troops on the Bull Run-Bull Run being only half a mile from where the train was unloaded. Rapid discharges of artillery were heard, and fighting was on the left of the road.


    JNO. J. KEY,
    Major, Aide-de-Camp.



ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-12.05 p.m.
    My aide has just returned from General Franklin's camp; reports that Generals Franklin, Smith, and Slocum are all in Washington. He gave the order to the next in rank to place the corps in readiness to move at once. I learn that heavy firing has been heard this morning at Centreville, and have sent to ascertain the truth. I can find no cavalry to send out on the roads. Are the works garrisoned and ready for defense?


GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
Major-General.

ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 27, 1862-12 m. (Received 1.30 p.m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    I have just learned, through General Woodbury, that it was stated in your office last night bank it was very strange that, with 20,000 men here, I did not prevent the raid upon Manassas. This induces me to ask whether your remark in your telegram to-day that there had been great neglect about Manassas was intended to apply to me? I cannot suppose it was, knowing, as you do, that I arrived here without information and with no instructions beyond pushing the loading of my troops. The bridge was burned before my arrival. I knew nothing of it till this morning. I ask as a matter of justice that you will prevent your staff from making statements which do such great injustice at a time when the most cordial co-operation is required.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.

ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 27, 1862-12.14 p.m.
General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
     At Bristoe, 4 miles beyond Manassas, four trains coming up. First train fired into succeeded in passing, but ran into the rear of another train at Union Mills and blocks the road. Second fired into was thrown off. The conductor escaped, and has just reported. All the trains taken, probably-two trains certainly. Three trains were attacked by infantry; conductor thinks eight companies at least. There were eight successive volleys. This occurred at 8 o'clock last evening.


     JNO. J. KEY,
     Major, Aide-de-Camp.

Major-General HALLECK, Washington.
ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-12.20 p.m.
What bridges exist over Bull Run? Have steps been taken to construct bridges for the advance of troops to re-enforce Pope or to enable him to retreat if in trouble?
    There should be two gunboats at Aquia Creek at once. Shall I push the rest of Sumner's corps here, or is Pope so strong as to be reasonably certain of success? I have sent to inspect the works near here and their garrisons.
    As soon as I can find General Casey or some other commanding officer, I will see to the railway, &c. It would be well to have them report to me, as I do not know where they are. I am trying to find them, and will lose no time in carrying out your orders. Would like to see Barnard.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington.
ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-1. 15. p.m.
    Franklin's artillery have no horses except for four guns without caissons. I can pick up no cavalry. In view of these facts, will it not be well to push Sumner's corps here by water as rapidly as possible, to make immediate arrangements for placing the works in front of Washington in an efficient condition of defense? I have no means of knowing the enemy's force between Pope and ourselves.
    Can Franklin without his artillery or cavalry, effect any useful purpose in front?
    Should not Burnside take steps at once to evacuate Falmouth and Aquia, at the same time covering the retreat of any of Pope's troops who may fall back in that direction?
    I do not see that we have force enough in hand to form a connection with Pope, whose exact position we do not know. Are we safe in the direction of the valley?


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 27, 1862. (Received 1.20 p.m.)
Major-General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
     I am now in this office.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.
 

Major-General HALLECK, Washington.
ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-1.35 p.m.
    I learn that Taylor's brigade, sent this morning to Bull Bridge, is either cut to pieces or captured; that the force against them had many guns and about 5,000 infantry, receiving re-enforcements every minute; also that Gainesville is in possession of the enemy. Please send some cavalry out toward Dranesville, via Chain Bridge, to watch Lewinsville and Dranesville, and go as far as they can. If you will give me even one squadron of good cavalry here, I will ascertain the state of the case. I think our policy now is to make these works perfectly safe, and mobilize a couple of corps as soon as possible, but not to advance them until they can have their artillery and cavalry. I have sent for Colonel Tyler to place his artillerymen in the works.
    Is Fort Marcy securely held?


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


WARRENTON JUNCTION, August 27, 1862-1.45 p.m.
General McDOWELL:
    Reno has his instructions, and is ahead of the wagon train.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding.

WASHINGTON, D. C., August 27, 1862-1.50 p.m.
Major-General McCLELLAN,
Alexandria, Va.:
    Yes, I think Sumner's corps should come to Alexandria.* The enemy has appeared at Leesburg, and the commanding officer at Edwards Ferry asked for cavalry. Have you any to spare him? The enemy seem to be trying to turn Pope's right. Is there no way of communicating with him?


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

   *This is in answer to McClellan's dispatch of 11.20 a.m. See p.689. 


HEADQUARTERS FIRST CORPS, ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
Buckland Bridge, August 27, 1862-1.50 p. m.
Major-General MCDOWELL,
Commanding Third Corps:
    The brigade of General Milroy has advanced and is now 2 miles beyond the bridge, after the enemy had made an attempt to burn the bridge. He is directed to push his cavalry on to Gainesville and then take position on the fork to Thoroughfare Gap. General Milroy observed a train, which leaves no doubt that this is the enemy's rear guard which I have before me, and believe that the enemy is at Manassas by this time, and has beaten our forces there, and to proceed from there to Alexandria to destroy our depots.
     It seems to me necessary that our forces concentrate at Gainesville in pursuit of the enemy.
Being almost without cavalry, I beg leave to request you to send me one regiment from Warrenton, as cavalry is the only arm which may be of some avail under these circumstances. I cannot be without cavalry. I have only 150 men. Please send the first regiment you can find.
    Let the troops advance at once, because the enemy may throw himself on my advance and we could lose the bridge.


    Respectfully, yours,
    F. SIGEL,

    Major-General.
    P. S.-Please take care of my train, which is now at Catlett's Station.



WASHINGTON, D. C., August 27, 1862.
Major-General McCLELLAN,
Alexandria, Va.:
     No remark was made by me, or in my hearing, reflecting on you, in relation to Manassas. I did remark to General Woodbury, on receiving news of the capture of the train, that there must have been great neglect in permitting 500 of the enemy to make the raid, when we had some 20,000 men in that vicinity (not vicinity of Alexandria), and added that many of the forces sent to Pope could not have been very far off. It would have been perfect nonsense to have referred to you, when you had just arrived and knew nothing of the disposition of the troops. Indeed, I did not blame any particular person, but merely said there must have neglect somewhere. I think you must have misunderstood General Woodbury, for he could not possibly have drawn such an inference from anything I have said.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.



WARRENTON JUNCTION, [August 27, 1862]-2.20 p.m.
General McDOWELL:
    I have information, upon which I rely, from aides of Generals Banks and signal corps, reporting what fell under their own observation-that a heavy column of the enemy moved yesterday across the Sperryville pike in the direction of Gaines' Cross-Roads and Salem, passing along the east base of Buck Mountain. It is this movement of the enemy that I desire very much to know about, if it can be ascertained by observation.


    JNO. POPE,
    Major-General.


General HALLECK.
ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-2.30 p.m.
     Sumner has been ordered to send here all of his corps that are within reach. Orders have been sent to Couch to come here from Yorktown with the least possible delay. But one squadron of my cavalry has arrived; that will be disembarked at once and sent to the front.
    If there is any cavalry in Washington it should be ordered to report to me at once.
    I still think that we should first provide for the immediate defense of Washington on both sides of the Potomac.
    I am not responsible for the past, and cannot be for the future, unless I receive authority to dispose of the available troops according to my judgment. Please inform me at once what my position is. I do not wish to act in the dark.


     GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
     Major-General.


ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-2.30 p.m.
Major General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE,
Falmouth, Va.:
The enemy are in possession of Manassas and Fairfax Station. Hold yourself in readiness to withdraw from Falmouth and Aquia Creek and to cover the withdrawal; don't move until further orders with your command, but embark all of Hunt's batteries that are not absolutely required at once. They are much needed here.
    By order:


    A. V. COLBURN,
    Assistant Adjutant-General.

    Take steps to cover the retreat of any of Pope's forces that may come in your direction.


SECOND CORPS, NEAR BEALETON, August 27, 1862.
Major-General McDOWELL,
Commanding Third Corps:
    GENERAL: Your dispatch, in duplicate, just received-2.30 p.m. My command is on the march and will be Warrenton Junction this evening.
   Respectfully, your obedient servant,


    N. P. BANKS,
   Major-General, Commanding.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Alexandria, Va., August 27, 1862-2.40 p.m.
Major-General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    Have you received my messages of 1.15 and 1.35 p.m.? I am waiting here at your request.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General, Commanding.


WASHINGTON, D. C., August 27, 1862.
Major-General McCLELLAN,
Alexandria, Va.:
     I have already advised you to bring up Sumner's corps. Perhaps we may also bring up Burnside's, if deemed necessary. General Barnard has all the troops he asked for at the forts, but I can give you no details. I have sent for him to consult with you; nor do I know about the Bull Run Bridge. From your knowledge of the whole country about here you can best act. I have had no time to obtain such knowledge.
    There is no cavalry here, or, rather, only part of a small battalion. One company has been sent to scout up the river toward Edwards Ferry. It is very likely to be cut off.
    As you must be aware, more than three-quarters of my time is taken up with the raising of new troops and matters in the West. I have no time for details. You will therefore, as ranking general in the field, direct as you deem best; but at present orders for Pope's army should go through me.
    Gunboats are at Aquia Creek.


    H. W. HALLECK,
    General-in-Chief.

WARRENTON JUNCTION, August 27,[1862]-4 p.m.
General BURNSIDE, Falmouth:
    I send you the last order from General Pope, which indicate the future as well as the present. Wagons are rolling along rapidly to the rear, as if a mighty power was propelling them. I see to cause for alarm, though I think this order my cause it. McDowell moves to Gainesville, where Sigel now is. the latter got to Buckland Bridge in time to put out the fire and kick the enemy, who is pursuing his route unmolested to the Shenandoah, or Loudoun County. The forces are Longstreet's, A. P. Hill's, Jackson's, Whiting's, Ewell's, and Anderson's (late Huger's) divisions. Longstreet is said by a deserter to be very strong. They have much artillery and long wagon trains. The raid on the railroad was near Cedar Run, and made by a regiment of infantry, two squadrons of cavalry, and a section of artillery. The place was guarded by nearly three regiments of infantry, and some cavalry. They routed the guard, captured a train and many men, destroyed the bridge, and retired leisurely down the road toward Manassas. It can be easily repaired. No troops are coming up, except new troops, that I can hear of. Sturgis is here with two regiments. Four were cut off by the raid. The positions of the troops are given in the order. No enemy in our original front. A letter of General Lee, seized when Stuart's assistant adjutant-general was taken, directs Stuart to leaven a squadron only to watch in front of Hanover Junction, &c. Everything has moved up north. I find a vast difference between these troops and ours. But I suppose they were new, as they to-day burned their clothes, &c., when there was not the least cause. I hear that they are much demoralized, and needed some good troops to give them heart, and, I think, head. We are working now to get behind Bull Run, and, I presume, will be there in a few days, if strategy don't use us up. The strategy is magnificent, and tactics in the inverse proportion. I would like some of my ambulances; I would like also to be ordered to return to Fredericksburg and to push toward Hanover, or, with a larger force, to strike at Orange Court-House. I wish Sumner was at Washington, and up near the Monocacy with good batteries. I do not doubt the enemy have large amounts of supplies provided for them, and I believe they have a contempt for this Army of Virginia. I wish myself away from it, with all our old Army of the Potomac, and so do our companions. I was informed to-day, by the best authority, that, in opposition to General Pope's views, this army was pushed out to save the Army of the Potomac, an army that could take the best care of itself. Pope says he long since wanted to go behind the Occoquan. I am in great need of ambulances, and the officers need medicines, which, for want of transportation, were left behind. I hear many of the sick of my corps are in house on the road, very sick. I think there is no fear of an enemy crossing the Rappahannock. The cavalry are all in the advance of the rebel army. At Kelly's and Barnett's Fords much property was left, in consequence of the wagons going down for grain, &c. If you can push up the grain to-night, please do so, direct to this place. There is no grain here to-day, or anywhere, and this army is wretchedly supplied in that line. Pope says he never could get enough.


F. J. PORTER.

    Most of this is private. But if you can get me away, please do so. Make what use of this you choose, so it does good. Don't left the alarm here disturb you. If you had a good force you could go to Richmond. A force should at once be pushed out to Manassas to open road. Our provisions are very short.


F. J. P.

    After telegraphic, this dispatch will be sent to General Burnside.


WASHINGTON CITY, August 27, 1862-4 p.m.
Major-General McCLELLAN,
Alexandria, Va.:
     What news from the front?


    A. LINCOLN.


ALEXANDRIA, VA., August 27, 1862. (Received 5 p.m.)
Major-General HALLECK,
General-in-Chief:
    Your dispatch received. All orders sent to General Pope will be sent through you.


   GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
   Major-General.

WASHINGTON, August 27, 1862-4.30 p. m.
General BURNSIDE:
    Do you hear anything from Pope?


   A. LINCOLN.


FALMOUTH, August 27, 1862-5 p. m.
The PRESIDENT:
    Nothing from Pope since his dispatch to General Halleck, which has just gone through. I sent full dispatches to General Halleck this morning of all that I know.


    A. E. BURNSIDE.

WAS DEPARTMENT,
Washington, August 27, 1862.
Major-General BURNSIDE, Falmouth, Va.:
    Unless the enemy appears in your front in force there is no haste in leaving Falmouth. The character of the enemy's movement on Pope's right is not yet proved to be in large force. Probably to-night will determine its character.


    H. W. HALLECK,
   General-in-Chief.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, August 27, 1862.
Major-General BURNSIDE, Falmouth, Va.:
    I am anxiously awaiting the result of your reconnaissance south of the Rappahannock. I can get no satisfactory information of the enemy's position of movements. His cavalry go all ground our army, destroying baggage and trains, while ours does nothing at all. This must be changed; and if the cavalry officers continue so inefficient report them for discharge.


    H. W. HALLECK,

ALEXANDRIA, August 27, 1862-6 p.m.
    I have just received the copy of a dispatch from General Pope to you, dated 10 a.m. this morning, in which he says: "All forces now sent forward should be sent to my right at Gainesville." I now have at my disposal here about 10,000 men of Franklin's corps, about 2,800 of General Tyler's brigade, and Colonel Tyler's First Connecticut Artillery, which I recommend should be held in hand for the defense of Washington. If you wish me to order any part of this force to the front, it is in readiness to march at a moment's notice to any point you may indicate. In view of the existing state of things in our front, I have deemed it best to order General Casey to hold his men for Yorktown in readiness to move, but not to send them off till further orders.


    GEO. B. McCLELLAN,
    Major-General.


HEADQUARTERS FIRST CORPS, ARMY OF VIRGINIA,
Buckland Bridge, Va., August 27, 1862-8 p. m.
Major-General MCDOWELL, Commanding Third Corps:
    The First Corps is in bivouac between Gainesville and Broad Run, with the cavalry beyond Gainesville.
General Milroy captured about 100 prisoners, stragglers of the rebel army. One brigade formed the rear guard, which was driven back by my advance. It seems to me essential that we attack to-morrow, when it would be necessary to know the relations existing between the different commands here, and to know who will be in command in case of a battle if General Pope or yourself should not be here.
    Inasmuch s it is said that another force is said to advance from Salem, under command of General Longstreet, and that Jackson's troops are very tired and have used a great amount of ammunition, I think they should be attacked at once at Manassas Junction.
     Please inform me where General Cox's command is, and whether there is any hope of his joining me soon.
     I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,


    F. SIGEL,
    Major-General, Commanding First Corps.


Major-General McDOWELL:
At daylight to-morrow morning march rapidly on Manassas Junction with your whole force, resting your right on the Manassas Gap Railroad, throwing your left well to the east. Jackson, Ewell, and A. P. Hill are between Gainesville and Manassas Junction. We had a severe fight with them to-day, driving them back several miles along the railroad. If you will march promptly and rapidly at the earliest dawn of day upon Manassas Junction we shall bag the whole crowd. I have directed Reno to march from Greenwich at the same hour upon Manassas Junction, and Kearny, who is in his rear, to march on Bristoe at daybreak. Be expeditious, and the day is our own.


    JOHN POPE,
    Major-General, Commanding.



BRISTOE STATION, August 27, 1862 - 9 p. m.
Major-General RENO:
    March at the earliest dawn of day with your command on Manassas Junction. Jackson, Ewell, and A. P. Hill are between Gainesville and that place, and if you are prompt and expeditions we shall bag the whole crowd.
    McDowell advances upon Manassas Junction from Gainesville at the same hour; Kearny on Bristoe. As you value success be off by the earliest blush of dawn. Acknowledge receipt of this, and, if necessary, have guards with your trains. Push across the country wherever artillery can be hauled. I rely on your speed.


   JNO. POPE,
   Major-General.

WARRENTON, 27th-p.m.
To General BURNSIDE:
    Morell left his medicine, ammunition, and baggage at Kelly's Ford. Can you have it hauled to Fredericksburg and stored? His wagons were all sent to your for grain and ammunition. I have sent back to you every man of the First and Sixth New York Cavalry, except what has been sent to Gainesville. I will get them to your after a while. Everything here is at sixes and sevens, and I find I am to take care of myself in every respect. Our line of communication has taken care of itself, in compliance with orders. The army has not three days' provisions. The enemy captured all Pope's and other clothing, and from McDowell the same, including liquors. No guard accompanying the trains, and small ones guard bridges.  The wagons are rolling on, and I shall be here to-morrow. Good night.


    F. J. PORTER,
    Major-General.

Official Records, Series I., Vol.12, Part 2 and 3, Various.

Siegel and McDowell had been ordered by Pop to concentrate at Gainesville, Porter and Banks at Warenton Junction, and Reno and Heintzelman at Greenwich Station and Bristoe Station.  This put the Union troops in an advantageous position, with Jackson nearing Manassas at the Stony Ridge to the west of town.  After overcoming some of the confusion of the previous day (when it was thought the Confederates were headed back to the Valley), there still remained a general lack of coordination (as seen here) between Pope, Halleck, and McClellan.  In these messages you have McClellan in Alexandria sending troops forward, uncertain of his status and being told by Halleck to handle affairs but direct orders to Pope through him (and feeling offended, as always).  Pope is at Warrenton at the telegraph offices taking in various reports.  Halleck, in Washington, complains of being absorbed with affairs in the west. Lincoln is trying to get information from the field, and gets little.  Meanwhile, Porter is telling Burnside what a sorry state of affairs exists, in a manner most striking.  And, at the end of the day, Pope believes he is about to bag Jackson.