HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF PENNSYLVANIA,
Philadelphia, May 28, 1861.

General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN,

Cincinnati, Ohio:

According to capacity of rail, our forces are gathering at Hagerstown in front of strong force at Harper's Ferry, the only one threatening Cumberland, and sustaining troops of Grafton will cut their line of communication west beyond Clear Spring, and send aid, which will probably have to march. No State troops to be relied upon. U. S. forces not accountered. General Patterson will do all possible, but cannot risk defeat near Harper's Ferry.

F. J. PORTER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[2.]

CINCINNATI, May 28, 1861.

Major F. J. PORTER:

Telegram received. Occupy the point in question as soo n as you can safely. My movements very successful. Thus far all goes well.

G. B. McCLELLAN.

[2.]

HARRISBURG, May 28, 1861.

General R. PATTERSON:

I send you copies of telegrams received:

COLUMBUS, OHIO, [May]27, 1861.

Governor CURTIN:

Our frontier is threatened; immediate collison may take place. Two Ohio regiments entered Virginia to-day. Troops from Eastern Virgini have advance to Grafton to overawe Western Virginia. We are short of equipments? Can you send me by express forthwith 3,000 knapsacks, with infantry equipments. We will replace or pay for them as you direct. Send if possible. Answer immediately.

W. DENNISON,

Governor.

CINCINNATI, [May] 28, 1861.

Governor A. G. CURTIN:

If the U. S. troops cannot occupy Cumberlnad at once can you not do it with State troops? I have moved into Western Virginia, and am moving on Grafton. I look to you for aid at Cumberland.

G. B. McCLELLAN,

Major-General.

Have you taken any steps to meet McClellan's movements? Answer immediately.

A. G. CURTIN.

[2.]

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF PENNSYLVANIA,
Philadelphia, May 28, 1861.

Honorable A. G. CURTIN,

Governor of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg:

General Patterson not present. Demonstrations to meet and sustain General McClellan in proper time are making.

F. J. PORTER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[2.]