are inadequately armed, and they are so destitute of military instruction that no certain reliance can be had in them. If an attack should be made, I will do all that can be done with the means in my power to repel it.

I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

E. D. KEYES,

Major-General, Commanding Fourth Corps.

NOTE.-This supposes the departure of Naglee's brigade.

[18.]

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,
Baltimore, December 26, 1862.

Brigadier-General KELLEY,

Cumberland, Md.:

I will send to-day to Harper's Ferry all the re-enforcement available or to spare from here, to wit, six companies of Sixth New York Artillery from First McHenry, two large siege guns, and an independent battery, 103 men and six rifled guns. I have communicated directly with General Kenly because of the emergency seeming to require it.

ROBT. C. SCHENCK,

Major-General, Commanding.

[21.]

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,
Baltimore, December 26, 1862.

Brigadier General B. F. KELLEY,

Commanding, Cumberland, Md.:

Preceed immediately on receipt of this to Harper's Ferry and take command in person. I do not like the tone of General Kenly's last dispatch; * there seems trepidation in it.

ROBT. C. SCHENCK,

Major-General, Commanding.

[21.]

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,
Baltimore, December 26, 1862.

Brigadier General J. R. KENLY,

Harper's Ferry, Va.:

I understand, through some of the railroad people, that there is a purpose of abandoning Harper's Ferry. From all yet communicated to me I can see no sufficient reason for withdrawing to the Maryland side. You will remember that it is of vital importance to hold the position and preserve the bridge, railroad, and public property.+

ROBT. C. SCHENCK,

Major-General, Commanding.

[21.]

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,
Baltimore, December 26, 1862.

Colonel SCHOONMAKER,

Commanding Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Hagerstown, Md.:

You will immediately proceed with your command to Harper's Ferry and report for duty to Brigadier-General Kelley from that point. You

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* Probably 7 p. m., VOL. XXI, p. 890.

+ For reply, see 1.30 p. m., VOL. XXI, p. 888.

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