dispatch and reaffirms all its essential details as within his own observation. I deem it much overestimated, but the enemy's force is undoubtedly very large and their possession of Front Royal complete.

N. P. BANKS,

Major-General, Commanding.

Honorable E. M. STANTON.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

May 24, 1862-2.6 a. m.

Major General N. P. BANKS, Strasburg:

Arrangements are making to send you ample re-enforcements. Do not give up the ship before succor can arrive. You dispatch have been forwarded to General Geary.

P. H. WATSON,

Assistant Secretary of War.

WAR DEPARTMENT, May 24, 1862.

Major-General BANKS:

General Dix has been ordered to forward all the force he can spare to you immediately and other force will be sent from here. Please report the present condition of things.

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

STRASBURG, May 24, 1862.

(Received 7.5 a. m.)

Colonel Kenly's command of infantry and cavalry has been driven from Front Royal, with considerable loss in killed, wounded, and prisoners. The enemy's force estimated at 5,000 or 6,000. It is reported as fallen back on Front Royal; probably occupies that place this morning.

N. P. BANKS,

Major-General, Commanding.

Honorable E. M. STANTON.

STRASBURG, May 24, 1862.

(Received 7.10 a. m.)

Cannot give details this morning of our loss. The force of the enemy was very large; not less than 6,000 to 10,000. It is probably Ewell's force, passing through Shenandoah Valley. Jackson is still In our front. We have sent our stores to the rear, but troops remain here. Thanks for the re-enforcements. Enemy's cavalry reported on the Winchester road this morning by our scouts.

N. P. BANKS,

Major-General, Commanding.

Honorable E. M. STANTON.

STRASBURG, VA., May 24, 1862-7.15 a. m.

(Received 9.45 a. m.)

Thanks for dispatch. We shall stand firm. Enemy is undoubtedly