[477] want the men and artillery I have asked for. That line, even, is too far from Evansport, which we must be in position to assist. I confess that I do not like the present arrangement in front, at Munson's and Mason's hills. In authorizing their occupation I did not mean to have such posts—posts of such magnitude—established, and now nothing but reluctance to withdraw—to go backward—prevents me from abandoning them. Very truly yours, I desired Major Rhett to say to you, day before yesterday, that I propose to move my headquarters forward.J. E. J. Genl. Beauregard.
Headquarters 1ST corps army of the Potomac, Manassas, Sept. 7th, 1861.Sir,—I have the honor to state that the efficiency of the Ordnance Department of this corps is at present much hindered from want of transportation for ammunition. In our present situation this should not be allowed for an hour, and yet my reserve ammunition has been ready, and only awaiting transportation, for upwards of a week. I made requisition, about the 20th ultimo, for a suitable train, but as yet only a fourth of it has been furnished. I have furnished the Acting Chief Quartermaster of this corps (just appointed) with a statement of what is requisite, but at present the difficulty appears to be a lack of authority on his part to purchase where supplies can be obtained. Respectfully submitting the case for the action of the General, I have the honor to be, Your obedient servant,
Headquarters 1ST corps army of the Potomac, Fairfax Court-House, Sept. 13th, 1861.Dear Sir,—I have the honor to enclose you, herewith, copy of information just received from Washington, through a very good private channel, and which, no doubt, contains a great deal of truth mixed up with some exaggeration. There is, however, little doubt but that the enemy is making Herculean efforts to increase his forces in infantry, artillery, and cavalry, for a last effort in or about these quarters, before the cold weather sets in. He probably has, at present, on both sides of the Potomac, and about Washington, not far from seventy thousand men, including a large number of field-guns; but all in more or less disorganized condition, and still under the last impression of the battle of Manassas. On the 11th instant we had quite a brisk affair d'avant poste at Lewinsville, between about three hundred men and two pieces of artillery on our part, and on that of the enemy three regiments and eight pieces of artillery, which resulted in their complete rout, with the known loss of about one dozen men killed, wounded, and prisoners. ‘Nobody hurt’ on our side, not even a horse! But I suppose General Johnston will transmit to-day the official reports of the affair, which does so much credit to Colonel Stuart, of the cavalry. He and
To His Excellency President Jefferson Davis, Richmond, Va.:
