EXECUTIVE MANSION,

Washington, January 27, 1862.

Major-General BANKS,

Frederick, Md.:

DEAR SIR: If you can leave your post long enough without danger or detriment to the service the President desires you to come here and see him at once.

John G. NICOLAY,

Private Secretary.

[5.]

WASHINGTON, D. C., January 27, 1862.

General F. W. LANDER:

General McClellan desires to be informed by you of the exact position of Unger's. As at present advised McClellan thinks that a position at or near Springfield will best enable you to counteract the designs of the enemy. McClellan fears that at Slane's Cross-Roads with your present forces your position might be exposed to an attack in front and in rear by Jackson's and Loring's columns. Captain Thompson will be instructed before leaving here with respect to transportation for your command.

S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[5.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Washington, January 27, 1862.

General C. P. STONE,

Poolesville, Md.:

I am instructed to say that the commanding general has received your proposed plan of operations against the forces of the enemy in the vicinity of Leesburg, but that the same cannot be carried into effect at present. The commanding general directs that you make no movement across the river until further orders. Please acknoweldge this dispatch.

S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[5.]

JANUARY 28, 1862.

Major-General BANKS,

Willard's Hotel:

All quiet along the lines. Nothing has occurred since last night. General A. S. Williams communicates that thereis a rumor that Jackson means to cross at Williamsport, and another rumor that he wishes to destroy the bridge over New Creek at Cumberland. Raining here.

Very respectfully,

R. M. COPELAND,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[5.]