The order to remain at Moorefield was based on the supposition that it would find you there.

Upon subsequent information that the enemy were still operating in the vicinity of Winchester and Martinsburg, you were directed to move against the enemy.

The President now again directs you to move against the enemy without delay.  Please acknowledge the receipt of this, and the time received.

Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MARCY.

Washington, May 29, 1862. 10 A.M.

General R. B. Marcy, McClellan’s Headquarters: 

Yours just received.  I think it cannot be certainly known whether the force which fought General Porter is the same which recently confronted McDowell.  Another item of evidence bearing on it is that General Branch commanded against Porter, while it was General Anderson who was in front of McDowell.  He and McDowell were in correspondence about prisoners.

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. B. McCLELLAN.

War department, Washington city, D. C.,
May 29, 1862. 10.30 A.M.

Major-general McCLELLAN: 

I think we shall be able within three days to tell you certainly whether any considerable force of the enemy—­Jackson or any one else —­is moving on to Harper’s Ferry or vicinity.  Take this expected development into your calculations.

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL N. P. BANKS.

Washington, May 29, 1862.

Major-general banks, Williamsport, Maryland: 

General McDowell’s advance should, and probably will, be at or near Front Royal at twelve (noon) tomorrow.  General Fremont will be at or near Strasburg as soon.  Please watch the enemy closely, and follow and harass and detain him if he attempts to retire.  I mean this for General Saxton’s force as well as that immediately with you.

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL FREMONT

Washington, May 29, 1862. 12 M.

Major-general Fremont, Moorefield, Virginia: 

General McDowell’s advance, if not checked by the enemy, should, and probably will, be at Front Royal by twelve (noon) to-morrow.  His force, when up, will be about 20,000.  Please have your force at Strasburg, or, if the route you are moving on does not lead to that point, as near Strasburg as the enemy may be by the same time.  Your despatch No.30 received and satisfactory.

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL I. McDOWELL.

Washington, May 29, 1862.