Official Records of the Rebellion

[p.74]

I telegraphed the President on the 11th as follows: *

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,

Berkeley, July 11, 1862—3 p. m.

* * * * * *

We are very strong here now, so far as defensive is concerned. Hope you will soon make us strong enough to advance and try it again. All in fine spirits.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major- General, Commanding.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President.

These telegrams were sent on the 12th, 17th, and 18th to His Excellency the President:

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Berkeley, July 12, 1862—7.15 a. m.

Hill and Longstreet crossed into New Kent County, via Long Bridge. I am still ignorant what road they afterward took, but will know shortly. [p.75] Nothing else of interest since last dispatch. Rain ceased, and everything quiet. Men resting well, but beginning to be impatient for another fight.

I am more and more convinced that this army ought not to be withdrawn from here, but promptly re-enforced and thrown again upon Richmond. If we have little more than half a chance we can take it.

I dread the effects of any retreat upon the morale of the men.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major- General, Commanding.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Berkeley, July 17, 1862—8 a. m.

I have consulted fully with General Burnside, and would commend to your favorable consideration the general’s plan for bringing seven additional regiments from North Carolina by leaving New Berne to the care of the gunboats. It appears manifestly to be our policy to concentrate here everything we can possibly spare from less important points to make sure of crushing the enemy at Richmond, which seems clearly to be the most important point in rebeldom. Nothing should be left to chance here. I would recommend that General Burnside, with all his troops, be ordered to this army, to enable it to assume the offensive as soon as possible.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Berkeley, July 18, 1862—8 a. m.

No change worth reporting in the state of affairs. Some 20,000 to 25,000 of the enemy at Petersburg, and others thence to Richmond.

Those at Petersburg say they are part of Beauregard’s army. New troops arriving via Petersburg. Am anxious to have determination of Government, that no time may be lost in preparing for it. Hours are very precious now and perfect unity of action necessary.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major. General, Commanding.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President.