WASHINGTON, D. C., January 5, 1862.

Brigadier General J. J. REYNOLDS, Fayette, Va.:

GENERAL: If you must resign go over to Romney and assume command there for a few days until I return. Go immediately; your presence there is necessary. Jackson threatens Hancock. Answer.

W. S. ROSECRANS.

[5.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Washington, January 5, 1862.

Captain G. L. HARTSUFF, Wheeling, Va.:

Your dispatch received. Telegraph General Kelley to put everything in order. Open prompt communication with Thirteenth Indiana. Direct them to scout to Fifteen-Mile Creek. Why can't that point be occupied to cut off Jackson? Send the Seventh to Springfield with everything needful for their comfort. Banks will re-enforce Lander, and I want full, early information of front toward Bloomery Gap.

W. S. ROSECRANS,

Brigadier-General.

[5.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Washington, January 5, 1862.

General N. P. BANKS:

Send to General Lander strong re-enforcements, supplies, &c., as rapidly as possible. Should the enemy cross the river use your best endeavors to cut him off. In case the operations at Hancock assume large proportions the general commanding desires you to repair thither and assume the command in person.

By command of Major-General McClellan:

JAS. A. HARDIE,

Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-Camp.

[5.]

WASHINGTON, D. C., January 6, 1862.

Captain G. L. HARTSUFF, Wheeling, Va.:

Where is General Kelley? Tell him to give you all the news he has from Romney and the rebels toward Winchester. Give orders to have the troops well in hand, with thee days' rations, ready for march. Answer.

W. S. ROSECRANS,

Brigadier-General.

[5.]

SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Numbers 8.
Washington, January 8, 1862.

* * * *

5. Brigadier General J. M. Brannan, volunteer service, is relieving from duty with Smith's division, and will report for special instructions to the Headquarters of the Army.

* * * *

By command of Major-General McClellan:

S. WILLIAMS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

[5.]