Sunday, November 4, 2012

1862 November 5 near Sandy Hook 6.20 P.M.

[from the dispatch book of General Alfred Pleasonton]

Hd. Qrs. Cav: Brigade
Camp near Sandy Hook Nov 5.
                                     6.20. P.M.
To Colonel Geo. D. Ruggles
    Asst: Chief of Staff-
Colonel:       
               I have been informed
by several sources that the
officers of the cavalry which
engaged me today, made many
inquiries for the shortest &
best route to Warrenton.  Altho'
they made for Chester Gap,
I feel sure they are going
to Warrenton-  From all
my explorations in this vicinity
I believe the enemy have passed
the greater part of their force
beyond this point some time
since, & they may attempt
to strike Sigel a blow
near Warrenton--For
me to follow up this ridge

[page 2]
will take a good deal of
time, & no infantry com-
mands can follow on the
roads with their trains the
roads are so gad--I should
like the General's per=
mission to strike in the
direction of Warrenton
or Culpepper, between which
points I think I may find
some of the enemy.
      My command marched
12 miles today & was fighting
for six hours--pretty good
days work--I can not
say too much of my men
& officers--Hurry up
the Carbine Ammunition
      Very respectfully
       A. Pleasonton
         Brig. Genl
                Com'dg

MSS 495

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