Official Records of the Rebellion

[p.75]

The following was telegraphed to General Halleck on the 28th:

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Berkeley, July 28, 1862—8 a. m.

Nothing especially new except corroboration of reports that re-enforcements are reaching Richmond from south. It is not confirmed that any of Bragg’s troops are yet here. My opinion is more and more firm that here is the defense of Washington, and that I should be at once re-enforced by all available troops to enable me to advance. Retreat would be disastrous to the army and the cause. I am confident of that.

GEO. B. MCCLELLAN,

Major- General.

Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,

Commanding U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.

On the 30th I sent the following to the General-in-Chief:

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Berkeley, July 30, 1862—7 a. m.

* * * * * *

I hope that it may soon be decided what is to be done by this army, and that the decision may be to re-enforce it at once. We are losing much valuable time, and that at a moment when energy and decision are sadly needed.

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,

Major-General.

Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,

Commanding U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.