The New York Herald Newspaper, August 11, 1862, Page 2

9 P} moncing the Western Virginio camptig> wate placed entirely in charge and at the option of this gatlunt young htef, No red tape or incompetent war ofieets or polity cal juggicry interposed to m.ddte with the (am Hines the celery of moveman!, the unity action, tn the cam parin (hal was entered upon so rige “ © bricty and successfully. give movement) tait,sent thrill of iuspiration'te “the groat body of our armies, and ils moral effect tas not coasod up to the present ti Aofore crossing the Ohio fiver into Western Virginia, Conerai MoCletan bad bis nominal neadquarters at Cin- ienati, Ohio, From there,on the 26th of May, le an od the commencement of bia campaign to tne Union “ v ‘pmeat has long enough w factious rebels in your in endeavored to deter at the polls, Having attempt to deprive you of the est rights, they now seek to inwugu 4, and thus force you to yivid to their to the yoke of heir traitorous cou- destroying the property of the citi ad ruining your magouiticent railways. ernment has “heretofore carefwly wb- nding troops acrosss the Ohio, or even uttiug them along its banks, although frequently by many of your prominent citizens to do so. It dotornined to await the result of the State cleotion, de- airous that no one might be able to say that the slightest effort had been made from this sie to influence the free expression of your opiuions, although the many agencies Drought to bear on you by the rebels were well kuowa. You have now shown, under the most adverse cireum- stances, that the great mass of the people of Wester Virgiaia are true and loyal te that Deneficent government under which we aud our fathers bave lived 60 long. As soomas the result of the election was known the traitors commenced the work of destruction. The general govern- mont Cauuot close its ears to the demand you have made for assistance. Ihave ordered troops to cross the river. They come us your friends aud brothers—as enemies only to armed rebels who are preying upon you. Your homes, your families aud your property are under our protec- Yon; ali your righis shall be religiously respected, not- withstanding aii that has Deen said by the traitors to in- duce you to believe our advent among you will be sig- alized by an interference with your slaves, Understand one thing clearly: not only will we #bstain from all such interference, but we will, on the contrary, with am iron hand, crush any attempt at insurrection on their part. Now that we are in your midst I cail upom you wo fly to arms and suppert the geucral government; sever the connection that binds you to traitors; proclaim to the world that the faith and loyalty so long boasted by the Old Dominion are still preserved in Western Virginia, aud that you remain true to the Stars and Stripes. G. B. McCLELLAN, Major Genera) Commanding. THE CAMPAIGN BEGUN. The uctive movements of sho Western Virginia cam- paign were initiated on Sunday, May 26, 1861, at which tune Col. Kelly, In command of the First regiment of Vir_ nia Volunteers, stationed at Wheeling, received march. jers. They left Wheeling at seven o’clock on the g morning, moving towards Grafton, on the Balti- regiment, Col. Irwine, ope thousand strong, tioned at Bellair, crossed the Obie and followed Kelly’s and. The Fourteenth Ohio regiment, Col. Stead- man, crossed the Ohio at Marietta about the same time, and oceupied Parkersburg. At midnight on Sunday the rebelg evacuated Grafton in great haste, and Col. Kelly, with bis command, entered the town early on Tuesday morning. ENTRANCE OF THE UNION TROOPS INTO GRAFTON, May 28, 1861. Our troops all along the route from Wheeling to Graf- tou (190 rifles per ratiroad) were hajied with enthusiasm: (bey arrived at Grafton on May 28, im time for supper. e town was alive with enthusiasm and waiting the arrival of our troops. As our troops marched into the town there were Mfeing and drumming and singing, and every domonstration of joy expressed. The Ninth Indiana regiment soon followed the Virginia regimen’ into the town. Shortly afterwards the little girls and young ladies of Grafton paraded the streets, dressed in Mique and appropriate costumes. The svidiere cheered them vociterc » aud brought out their bands and pinyod some of their best pieces. The secession troops that occupied the village the day previous fled from iguominioualy , and pursued the road to Philippi. ‘UR BATTLE OF PHILIPPI, Jong 4, 1861. Philippi is a litte town on the Monongabeia river, twenty miles from Grafton. It is the county seat of Rourbou clunty, aod, although within the limits of + New Vieginia,” was, at the time of the battle, strong- ly Linetured with sece:sion sentiment, The expedition against it was made by order of General MoClellan, who ha:t been informed on good guthority that there was in the place a large quantity of ammunicion, camp equi- poge, provisions and arms, besides a large number of horses. ‘The oxpeditionary force consisted of three thousand Union troops, under Colouels Crittenden and t of fudiana, and embraced Indiana regimeats, one 9 ond a regiment of loyal Virginia volunteers, Colonel (now Brigadier General) Kelly. ibe prior to the march, were assembiod at Graf haert ec troops ton, on Sunday, Jone 2, ard informed in gene- cai lorma tbat they were to start on a foreed marod that evening. They were then supplied with ove day 5 rations and dismissed. The troops were full of ardor, oxpecting ‘hey were going divect to Harper's Ferry Ac eight o'clock im tho evening they were again assembled. and took up their line of march on the road ward. This cccastoned somo surprise among «1 Dot they Grudged bravely along. A heavy rain, which soon commenced falling, did not dampon their powder im the least. That they had succeeded their powder ary showed them to be good \t one o'clock in the morning they arrived at of the village (Philipp), and sout forward reconneltre. A favorable report having been ir cops advanced, and were fred at by the who appeared to be +. A section of our artillery, » who accompanied the expedition ac was placed ou a high hill, com mauding the village apd rebel camp, and the troopa Crittenden sapperted it, while another portion Uuion troops under the brave Kelly moved crobels by # ous route. ‘The rebel camps ardor o "a fu wore :udder i by the explodizg shells from our artillery his, while a rebel forco of three com- panis of rileaeu turned towards our troops. . Kelly fuving arrived at thts point ef attack, a vigorous assault vy vets col une, im force, was unade on ibe astounded revels, ade a bold resistance, but were met by ihe wy ry va reaiment, supported by the Indiana and Ohio troops. The engagement commencedsbut the ce. @ movements of our troops, the precision of bold plick son drove tho rebel troops in ached the main bedy of da Straggling fire, and shen » $ a complete rout. The 1 ‘ered another voiloy at the enemy, and a them m double quick time. The chase was an i y, however, had thestart, and most sscaped. They tuok the direction of Leedsville, farther south. Colonel Crittenden ortored the ; ment to tay and guard the town, while the two iments contjaued Uke pursuit. ‘Shey returned git the sext morning, with several prisoners, fatter it was learned (that the rebel force con- 1,009 men, aud that they bod no idea of being kod so suddenly, They bad no intrenchmep(s, aud only «et the ordinary guard, One or two of our 1 were Killed and afew wounded, amoug whom was Kelly, The loss of the rebels was sixteen killed, 4 large nutubor wounded, and ten prisoners. Our troope capturel «ithe ammunitioa of the rebels, and the camp equipage an horses, Thus resulted the dash on Philippi. MOV KAIENTS OF GENERAL M'CLELLAN. Tho bereulean task eutaiied on Gen. McClellan was @ burden which no ordinary man could bear, To ferm, organize and @quip an army in a few weeks would seem) aligoat impossible, yo \\ was accomplished by Gen. McCleilan, but only Uhrough almost superhuman efforts, and at the cust of physical evreugth from ich be suf. fered, and his personal presence with hie army—an event so much sought for by Bim—was postpoued until the lat- tor part of June, He remained in Cincinnati unui) the 2ad of that month, when be started for Virginia. During thesoterin of bie jilnos® his.mind was oot idie, though his body was. While im the sick room he was engaged with bis engineers and staf mM arrauging detaiis of marches, preseribing routes, maBing details for speciic jes and dictating maps for the use of commandaats of ps While in Cincinnati the sews of the @vacuatien of Marpor's Ferry (Jane 14 aad 16, 1661), against whiob he was pushing @ colums, reached him. This fact tm. portant w as it occasioned an almost change of plan of operatioys to that which he had com- pleted. {mmediately after the news of the evacuation of Harper's Ferry by the rebols Movleilan learned thas the enomy were pushing two strong eclumne oy troops into Westera Virginia, Colonel Torterfeld, who was chief im Command of the rebel force a PDIlippi, wan seator oommandams Of the rebels until avout Jone 18, whon be wae succeeded Im command by fisigadior General Robart A. Garnett, whe bad about that time jem arrived from Kastera Viegiola, with o brigade of Virginia and Goer ge MepOH, Awe Wocamped wy Laures Lili, o Bev Colome appoaramge of Garnept, McClollan Harned: that fogpe of rebels, unda® Colonel Pogram, were forttiyibg them-olves at a poimbio the pasée? Rich Mountailybe: twoou the villages of Buchanan and Beverley. The two poms How guarded Dy Lhe rebels wore th is ONE OVOE | which a hostile army would have to march in order to reach the mountain pags leading into Kasteru Virginia rhe presence of the rebel troops at those points mpressed Goa. Met jellan with the bolic! that the rebels would dis- pute (he possession of them with our army. The rebols in the Sanawha yalley about this timo were gelting anda- cies. Quteagos of the most heious character were com mitted om the persous and property of those who declared thoir fealty to the federal flag. ‘Their conduct was even still more aggravating whou they learuod that Gene- ral H, A. Wise, with the nueleas ofan army, wasvon bis way to assiat thom in their hostility to the government, ‘This was a matter which demanded the immediate atten- tion of @eneral MeClellan, He ordered a brigade of his troops, consisting of light artillery, infautry and ritle- men, vuder Brigadier General Cox, to proceed direct from Ohio, per steamboat, and move im the direction of Charleston, in Kanawha county, where it was said the rebel Wise was encamped. GENERAL MORRIS ARRIVES AT GRAPTON. About the Ist of June Brigadier General Morris, of In- diana, in the abdsonce of Generat MoClellan, assumed com- mand of the troops in Western Virginia, making lus w@adquarters at Graften. Under orders from his supe- rior, he at once ordered the Kleventh Indiana Zouaves, Colonel Wallace, to proceod by railroad to Cumberland. Asmall Union force occupied Philippi, another Cheat river pags. Besides these there were strong guards posted along the route from Wheeling to Grafton (100 miles), and between Grafton and Parkersburg. Clarks- burg, about ten mites from Grafton, was made a depot of supplies, and everything indicated that it was to be the future base of operations. A great part of Gene- ral Morris’ time was occupied in hearing and determining the cases of State prisoners, who were being arrested and brought in to headquarters every day for their disloy- alty. Othors again came in voluntarily and took the oath Of allegiance. Genera! Morris also promulgated to the people of Western Virginia the proclamation of Gen. Mc- Clellan of May 26, accompanied by the following order:— Heapquartsrs oF Unitkp States Ra ‘Western Virorxta, Gaartox, June 8, 1861. In issuing the above proclamation of the Cou ing General, Department of Ohio, I have now the pleasure of announcing that we have routed snd completely disoom- fitted the secessionists in arms at Philippi. Their forces are demoralized, desertions are numerous, and the panic stricken rempant has taken reCuge in the passes of the mountains. Western Virginia is free from enemies to her freedom and her peace. In full confidence of your ability and desire to protect yourselves, I now call upon you to come to the support of your constitutional government. 1 am empowered to muster you into the service of the United States, to serve only in defence of your own soil. Arms and munitions will be furnished you. Assemble at once at your various county seats, and report to me for instructions, Cayalry and infantry will be accepted at once. . A. MORRIS, Brigadier General Commanding. THE EFFECT OF THE BATTLE AT PHILIPPI. ‘Hao success of our troops at Philippi had a wholesome ef- fect an the political aepect of the new State. It developed both the loyal and cisloyal sentiments of the people. Tho defeat exasperated those that were not true to their flag, su that they uttered their sentiments boldly, and thus led to their speedy arrest. Many of the inhabitants who until now held a “neutral” position come out boldly for the Union. They stated to our military leaders that their reticence was owing te the fabrications of the se- cessionists, who said that the Northern troops would in- vade their sacred soi! to kill, burn, devastate, piliage and commit the most barbarous outrages. Since the Union troops had arrived in their midst they found them not only brave soldiers, but good citizens and gentlemen, actuated only by honorable motives, who respected them and their rights, both of person and property, and who came among (hem not to oppress and outrage, but to re- eve and protect. Seceesionists were arrested wherever found, and placed ia places of security, while ail loyal citizens were afiorded ample protection. Indeed the orders of General McClellan to bis men, before they com- menced the campaign, were soatrict in regard to the dis- cipline he would exact ef them that no loophole was left through which the violators of them could escape. This accounted in @ great measure for the esprit du corps among the Weatern Virginia troops at the start. THE ZOUAVK Dash ON ROMNEY, JUNE 11, 186]. The Eleventh Indiana Zouaves, Colonel Lewis Wallaces had been seni as an advanced guard from Grafton to Cum- berland. ‘ihey had been at the latter place but afew days wheu they learned that there was a force of about fifteen hundred rebeis at the town of Romoey, twenty- two miles distant. Colonel Wallace selected 2ix com- pans of bis regiment, avout six hunéred men, the other four companies remaiuing to pretect Cumberland. The Indianians reached Romney by a forced march , and came upon the town, in which there were five huadred rebels. They gave battle, and after » brisk fire om both side® succeeded in Goupleteiy routing the rebels, who beat a basty retreat. Coiouel Wallace pursued them, killiog a nuaber of thei, Vesides capturing a considerable amount of arms, ammuniiion, eome Lorses and prisoners. Colo- nel Wallace thew retugned with bis force to Cumberland, not holding the captured pisce. POLITICAL ASPECT OF APPATRS. From the Ist to the 23d of June troops continued to ar- rive iz Western Virginia, taking post in such positions as the circumstances and the commanding general directed The political aspect of the country looked more assuring for good than \( did when our army first crogsed the Ohio. ‘This was po doubt owing to the rigid policy which Gene- ral McClellan adopted towards all those disloyal men who expressed or acted in oetility to the federal govern- ment. The Uniou meu, who were generally the most peaceable, ax had been subjected to the ingulwsof their andacious secession neighbors, now enjoyed security: Wherever ovr troops made their appearance they were hailed with joy. The soldiers, in turn, reciprocated the compliments beztowed upon them by their Kind and con. eliatory manner towards the inhabitants, and by observ- img their property with @ sacredness which bespoke th® patriot soldier. MOVEMENTS OF THE REBELS. ‘The organized revels, who had by this time assembled in force near the places occupied by our troops, besame bolder every day, They would approach our picket tines, and from secret pisces would fire on our men, and thus commit morder. They songht every opportunity to Ue in ambush and stealthily shoot down our guards who were engaged in the peaceful avocation of guarding pn. vate property. Soch was (he savage warfare adopted by the rebels from the heginning, and wiftch they are car- rping on to thia day. Scouting parties were daily seat out from our fines, and frequently met sinail detach. ments of the enemy. Im these cases the rebeis always declined to meet our troops in fair combat, but on the coutrary sneeked away into she bushes or dense under- growth, where they contiaued their unequal warfare and murderous acta. GENRRAL MCLELLAN TAKES THE FTBLD. General dicCleiian, with bis staff, arrived at Grafton, from Cineiunati,on the 26d of June, accompanied by some of bie brigadier generals, Be at once conferred with General Morris upon the aspect of affairs, and applied iimself to the active command of the army. Ho détermined at once upon moving forthwith against the enemy at Rich Mountain and Laurel Hill. Hie army by this time bad been several weeks im the fold: and, like & new piece of machinery, wanted @ screw tightened Nero aud an alteration at another place, ant:! the whole machine should work as a unit, Incompetent officers were superseded by good ones. The Commiagariat and quartermaster departments were fm proved, and (be supply and transporiation departineats put ju a wholesome condition. These eascutials to tho rough military organization were discharged by General McClellan with a 7601 dud comprebension that excited the wonder and delight of the General's immediate staff. Ope of these officers remarked, “He hae an irom eonst)- tution, and for she fife of me cannot tell when he eats, lees.” Such the character of the little General McClellan, immediately after bis arrival in Vir- Ginla, Iseved another of supplomentary proclamation to the people of Virginia, assuring them shat the pledges of bis prociamation of May 26 ‘‘will be faithfnlly oarried out.” Bé concludes: To my regret I find that the ene- mies of the United States continue to carry on a system ‘Of hort\\ ities prowibited by the laweof war among belli. ferent nations, aad of course far more wicked and inex. cosabie when directed against loyal citizons engaged in the defence of « common goverument of all. Marauding parties are pursuing cruel warfar og npon sentinels and pickets, buroing bridges, insulting and injuring gal- fant citizens because of their Union sentiments, ang committing many kindret arte 1 dw now, therefore, take persons (hat jadividuals oo Car x4 MS ids view or tmp attackdag wentelre, pickets anit other wakdiers, committing njurios against any of the inhabitants be! canse of Union sentimenta, will be dealt with in their prociamation oF parties engaged I id ware all ia species which oan be persona and property aceording to tue savercat enies of military law. All gecorw: giving (nformation oF aid to (he public ae * Ean, clini gnomy wi and kept ‘u close LY, 1078 bemein, ;uniesé of known, ty, arrested andn examination, Copies OF this | proclamation “among the Sitrz Western Virginia: its firm, deoisive, yet conciliatory tone, wou for its author the respect aud cstoom of the majority of those within his military de- partment Svon after the rsuing of this proclamation a percoptible diminution iv the number of outrages by the 1ebels occurred , and & sonse of security was growing moro and inore eatablished every day. . Goneral McClellan's attention and time waa oow divi- ded between maicing arrangements for'an advance on tho rebels amd properly guarding bik avenues of gupplios Against surprise or incursions from the rebeus. One or ‘bandred miles of the Baltimore and Ohio “railroad was in bis possession; this required careful guarding, a3 ‘ts route was in many places im deop Ghasms, over creeks erosped ry wooden bridges. These places required at - tention, dad to this cad Targe detnohraents of troops wore placed gn thew ag permanent guards, Cumberland formed the oxtreme northeastern limit of General Me- Cleilan’s lives. Thia place was im the occupancy of the Bieveuth Indiana Zouaves,end subsequently by a rein- forcement Of two Pennsy!vania regiments. Philippi, Webster and Clarksburg, all diverging from Grafton as a contre, were ach occupled by a goodly number of troops, roady for « forward movement. On tho 26th of June General MoCietian issued the fol” lowing address to his army :—~ BRS OF TAR ARMY OF THE WEst:— could devolve on youyand I expect you to bring to its papiirmanoe the highest = noblest ~ go of _- Nors—discipline, courage mercy. upon oficers of every grade toenforce the highest discipline, and I know that those of all grades, privates and officers, will display in battle cool apd heroic courage, and will know how to show mercy toa disarmedenemy. Boar in mind that you are in the country of friends, not of ene- mies; that you are here to protect, and not to destroy. Take nothing, destroy nothing, unless you are ordered to doso by your general officers. Remember thet I have pledged my wort to the. prenle of Western Virginia that their rights in person and property shail be respected. I ask @1 one of you to make good this promise in its jt sense. We have come here to save, not to uptarn. I do not appeal to the fear of punishment, but to your appreciation of the sacredness of the cause in which we are car! into battle the convietion you are right, \God Your enemies have violated every moral Jaw; neither Godmor man can sustain them. They have, without cause, rebelled against a mild and paternal gov- ernment; have seized upon public and private property; they have outraged the persons of Northern men merely because they came from the North, and of Southern Union men merely because they love the Union; they have placed themselves beneath contempt, unless the: can retrieve some honor on the field of battle. You wi pursue differont course. You will be honest, brave and merciful. You will respect the right of public.opinion. You will punish no mau for opjnion’s sake... Show to the world that you differ from our enemies in these points of honor, honesty and respect for private opinion, and that ‘wo inaugurate no reign of horror where we go. Soldiers, I have heard that there was cane here. I have come to place myself at your head share it with you. I fear now but ono thiag, that you will not find foemen. worthy of your steel. { know that I can upon you. GEO. B. Me Major General Commanding. THE FORWARD MOVEMENT. General McCielian’s troops having all arrived in the vicinity of Grafton (June 28), he at once commenced to brigade them. The frst brigade was assigned to Briga- ier General Rozecrans, the second under Brigadier Gene- ral Morris, the third under General Schlaich, and the fourth under Brigadier General Hill. These troops were composed of infantry and artillery, the cavalry forming a small portion of the whole. McClellan was fully ap- prised of the movements of the enemy at Laure] Hill and Rich Mountain. Heiresolved to give them battle. His plan of attack was as follows: — General Rosecrans’ and General Schiaich’s brigades were to move from: Clarksburg, pursuing the road to Buchanan, via Weston, and by that ronte menace the rebel position at Rich Mountaia. This was called the ‘main column. a General Morris was to proceed via Philippi and Burling- ton, to threaten Garnett’s (rebel) position at Lauret Hill. ‘The main attack was to be made at Rich Mountain. If that position fell, Garneit’s position would be turned, and his retreat rendered a matier of necessity; and in that case Morris was to fall on him and cut bim up in detail. General Hiil’s brigade was to remain at Grafton, to cut Off Garnett’s retreat at West Union or Red House, in case Morris failed to escure him, when be (Hill) should be in- formed of the retreat of the rebel column. ‘The pian was exceileni, plain, tamgibie and promised success i 5 THE MARCH BEOUN. The brigade of General Rosecrans, consisting of the Seventeenth and Nineteenth Ohio, Eighth and Tenth la- diana, loft Clarksburg (now become the headquarters of General McClellan and the base of operations) on the 29th of June, in the direction of Buebanan. General Schlaich’a brigade, consisting of the Third and Fourth Ohio troops, moved the same day. They marched to # point twenty miles from Clarksburg, aud within seven miles of Bu- chanan. GENERAL M’CLBLLAN. General McCiellan and staff remained at Clarksburg until July 2, when they pursued the route to join Rose- craps’ column. MOVEMENTS OF GENERAL MORRIS’ COLUMN. On Sunday, July at two 9’clock P, M., General Morrin’ division left Philippi to take their part in the genera) plan of action. General Morris had a force of between six and seven thonsand men. Laurél Hill (the enemy’s position) was thirteen miles distant from Philippi. The eommaud of the advance brigade was given by General Morris to his chief engineer officer, Captain Benham, of the United States Engineer corps, an officer of great experience and skill, whose judgment had before been tested by the eonduct of several difficult operations. Captain Benham had thorough!y explored and mapped the country, and his accurate delineations of the topography had given essential aid in the plavning of the expedition. By skilfully availing himself of the po- culiaries of the country he avoided the necessity of thrice fording a stream, as had been supposed necessary by the Commanding Gonera!, in order to avoid defile, where effective resistance might be offered, and then brought the army to its designated position some two hours earlier than would have been possible otherwise, to the complete surprise of the enemy. Here a position was chosen at Burlington, on the oppoaite aide of the valley from Laurel Hill, and within rifle shot of the enemy’s intrenchments; and, notwitRstanding repeated attacks and skirmishes with the enemy, it was success. fully fortified A BRISK SKIRMISH. At two o'elock om the 8th of July, from Geveral Morris’ points of observation, on a high hill near his position, and overlooking the enemy’s camp at Laurel Hill, two large bedies of rebel troops were seen marching eut of their camp towards the Union lines. lastant preparations were made to re sist a formidable attack. By four o'clock P. M. the skir- mishing in front of the Fourteenth Ohio and Ninth Indiana regiments became very warm. fhe rebels advanced, up- der cover of the woods, so close as to rain bullets upon the Union artillery battery. A large force of skirmishers: was sent forward to engage the enemy, and our skir- mishers instantly rushed forward, pouring in sharp vol- Jeys ,and killing many of the onemy. The enemy's cavalry then advanced around to the fartnes of the woods to take our skirmishers in the flank. Our troops rapidly fell hack, while our artillery treated the rebel flankers to o number of slot and shell, The firo became too warm for the revels, and they cell back in some confusion , when ot troops again advanced ‘and ocoupied their original ground. The enemy now scattered under cover of the woods. Their officers werd g@on atiompting to rally them. At Orst the rebels seemed disinclined to advance ia a body, and our troops devoted themselves to picking off the rebel oficers. Our artillery continued to play upon the robels wherever they au covered themselves, when our. troops received orders to charge the revels, which they did in double quisk time, driving the rebels clear through their own rifle pits, bri ing back several of their blankets, coats and guns,as tro- phies of their gallaat achievoment, The rebels engaged in this affair numbered about 1,200 men. When dusk came our ekitmishers returned from the woods {i capital order. An attack was expected during the bight, but none was made, though Oceasional shots were fired among our pickets, Astonishing pluck was displayed by the Union akirmishers, and the only trouble was to keep the men ‘back from rushing jnto tho enemy's midst. The enemy Joft twenty dead on the field and as many more wore car- ried by them off the fled. It was subsequently discov ered that this movement of the enemy was made to cover another mevement to gain a position in our rear, upon which to plant a battery, but (Genera! Morris’ sagacity On the 10th of July there was cousiterable skirmish. ing on both sides, but of little importance. The onemy reduced their picket areo by withdrawing their pickets to within half a mile of their camp. Up to this ur lows was but two men Killed and six wounded. The Ninth (ndiana regimont and the Fourteenth Oliv con tinued to occupy the advances, ‘The Seventh Indiana aud Firat Virginia ocoupicd the Manis, and the Gubbric Grays, NEW YORK HERALD, MONDAY, AUGUST H, a Re sale Oni and {Bifroc tit \Ohid Bow posad tno ‘cade. oF LOOPS wer@AB eserves . MOVEMENTS OF TH MAIN COLUMN. Rosecrans; with his columu, reached Bachaneu July 3, and was joined by Gen! MoGlelan on the 4th. ‘the vountry over whieh our icoops maroked was diifoult, ‘The mountain stecps, narrow defiles, zig-2ag roads, w ‘er courses gpd ir molintain” gorges, at times soomtd atmost tnipaséabls,” ‘Tho risk to man and animals was often of tho mont hazar. 1s mature, and the march, at all times,was co intly harasstag and extremely laborious, From tue 4th uutil’ the 10th of July McClotlan bad his hoadquarters at Ruchanan, He employed himseil tiriyg the intori 1 strengthening bis line Of comms. riot with bis...) at Clarksburg; garrisoned several impor. tant towns on the routes, aud piaced atrong guards ab overy suspicious path orbyroat, The presence of #0 humerous a body ot tropa Among the people of Western Virginia was a now experience to thom, At first they were startled, theu curious, amd ‘at last frightened. The internecine war had not yet been felt in this section of the country, and the sparseneas of the population render- od the transmission of intelligence irregular and dificult, McClellan desired, before procveding further into the country, to reassure those peoplo that bis mission was peace to all peaceable citizens, and that he came to afford them the most ample pre im their persons and property, a0 long a they we » to the federal governmient. This polloy was omincatly wiso; it had the desired efféct, and its qpera- tion won back maty doubting hearts to fealty so the old MS cciellan, in the meantime, was observing the enemy at Rich Mountain; strong roconnoitering and scouting pariios were sent out daily to obtam correct information and full details of the topography of the country, tho strength and approaches to the enemy's position. On the 6th of July a part of tho Forty-fifth Ohio regiments while out on a scout, fell in with soveral hundred robel, near Middle Fork Bridge, one’ of the approaches to Rich Mountain, After a desperate fight our trdops cut their way through and returned to camp. The next morning the Fourth and Seventh Ohto regiments, under Colonel ‘McCook, marched and took possession of tho bridge. BATTLE OF RICH MOUNTAIN, JULY 11, 1861. Gen. McClellan's corps d’armee, consisting of the Fighth, ‘Tenth, Thirteonth, Fourteonth and Fifteenth regiments of Judiana Volunteors; the Third, Fourth, Ninth and Nine- teenth regiments of Ohio Volunteers; Company I, Fourth regiment United States artillery, Capt. Mack, serving as infantry; Company G, Fourth regiment United States ar- tillery, Capt. Howe, with a battery of six pieces of can- nod; Coldwater (Michigan) artillery, Capt. Loomis, with a battery of six pieces; Cincinnati Cavalry, Capt. Bird- sall; Chicago Dragoons, Capt. Barker, and the Sturgis Rifles, Capt. Steele, of Chicago; Company A, Capt. Hayes» Second Virginia Volunteers; Company E, Capt. Phillips, ‘Third regiment Virginia Volinteers—in all about 8,000 men—arrived at Roaring Run creck from Buchanan on the 9th inst. The first incident that occurred, and which pre- faced the,more extended operations, was the capture of four mounted rebels at Roating run crossing, who were evidently on the lookout for the approach of the Union troops, When the head of the column of the Union troops reached the creek crossivg the main road from Bachanan to Rich Mountaia, and thence to Beverley, it was disco- vered that the bridge crossing the stream had been de- Stroyed by the rebels. The troops being fatigued by thelr long march from Buchanan, they encamped, under the immediate direction of Genera! MoClellan, and in such or- der as to be ready for any emergency that might occur during the night. On the 10th inst. General McClellan ordered the bridge crossing the Roating Ran creek to be rebuilt, and when ‘this was completed a reconnoissance in force in front of the rebels’ positon at Rich Mountain. The party con- sisted of several regiments, under the direction of Lieu- teumnt 0. M. Poe, of the Engineers, assisted by Colone! Lander, volunteer aid, and Judge Advocate Key,of Gen. McCiellan’s staff. As the party approached the enemy's pesition detachments of Union skirmishers were de- ployed into tne woods to the right and left of the main road, driving in the exienty’s pickets before them, and moving forward until they nad a fall view of the front of tbo eneniy’s main works. As the onemy’s pickets rotired they fired at the Union troops, and were joised by alter- nate discharges of gtapo and canister from the rebe! works op the neighboring heights. Notwithstanding the fire of the onemy, the recounoigsance was complete and satisfactory, and the party retired in good order, with the loss of one man killed and two wounded of the Ninth Indiana @Mgimeut. As the party were about to retura they were met by General McClellan and staff, with the main column of troops, advancing to thefr support. The united forces then returned, aud much to the chagrin of the troops, who supposed theyemoved forward to attack the enemy's front. From the information derived by the Teconnoigsauce and statements of the captured rebel pri- soners, Gen. dicClellan derived positive data of the strengjho! the works, the Idtation of the salient points, and the Bumerical strength of she enemy. On thé night of the 10th inst, Gen. McClellan, assisted by members of his staff, matured his finat plen for an attack on the enemy’s position , and in pursuance thereof, early on the morning of the 1th, he detailed the brigade under command of Gen. Rosecrans, consisting of the Ninth Uhio and the Tenth and Thieteenth Indiava Volun- teers, to deflect from the main road at a point three and a half miles fronmtherenetuy’s principal works, and pro. eed up an inclined ridge to tue summit of a range of mountains for a distance of cight mifes, at a point frout_ ing the tear of the enemy's works. Gen. McClellan's or- ders met with a pearty response,’ and the movement was commenced by daylight. The route was through a dense woods, in which was a heavy undergrowth. Working parties were sent forwari! with axes to clear the route and facilitate the paseage of the, aivancing column. By three o’dlock in the afternoon the work was completed, and the Union column in sight of the enemy's rear de- fences. From the time Gen. Rosecrans commenced the ‘ascent of the mountain he despatched couriers, at shor! intervals, reporting progrez* to Gen. MeCiellan. By one of these return messengers Gen, MoViellan sent despatches to Gen, Rosecrans, giving him (General R.) the orders and plan to attack the enemy's rear, Through some un- towardcircumatance ‘this messenger mistook the road leading to Gen..Rosecraps’ position, and, instead, fol- lowed up the main road, was fired upon, was taken pri- goner, and Bis despatches reized by the revels. The first indigation that General McClellan received of th® capture of this Courier was the return of the latter's horse, coyered with blood, into camp. The information thos obtained by the rebels did’ not alter the plan of attack, for another courier was despatched, conveying the samé@ orders to General Rosecrans. The enemy, thus early informed im the morning of General Rose” crane’ movements, at once prepared himself for defence in the rear, aud when the Uniom forces made their ap- pearange: they found themselves in front of log breast- works ined with rebel troops. Atatime when Gen- McClellag supposed Gen. Rosecrans ready to attack the enemy in the rear, he ordered seven regiments from the tain eolumo at Roaring creek to proceed up tho main road leading to the enemy’s fromt. Gen. McClellan com- manded in person. At three o'clock in tho afternoon rapid discharges of musketry and artillery were heard by General McClellan from the direction of where Goueral Rosecrans was supposed to be stationed, “Indicating that he was ongaging the enemy. Suddenly a cose: ‘ of the firing ensued, whieh subsequently was ascortained ? have lieen caused by Genoral Rosecrans ordering his columa to retire over the mountain opposite the enemy in order to form in line of battle for a final assault on the rebel works. This being done, the (Union troops inoved over the sumia't of td thowntain towards the encmy,and {aa fow moments both sides were engaged in a bhoody conflict. The Union troops moved in good order, but slowly, down the mountain slope, delivering their fire at the enemy, who were strongly Intrenehed and covered by huge foks, with murderone effet, the onerring Minio muskets of the Caion"tréope being served with unerring accuracy, The engagement lasted two hours. Night was approaching, and Ube. rebels, floding their foree ro pidly dirbiniehing. aud further defence useless, beat'n furtive retreat through the mountaing, leaving the Uoion forces masters ot the field. ‘AB soon ae the battle censod the Union troeps attended to their wounded and conduct od the rights of xepniture to thedead, ag woll as affbriling all the relief possible, or which humanity could dictate, to their fatien foes. Retarning to that part of the varrative where General MoCiellan, with the main column, liad halted on the road, find after the toll in the first fire, canted by Genera Rosecroa® forming his ting of battle for a flea! attack ‘on the enemy's rear, (hey meard the Gr ing resumed, with heavy discharges of musketry and artillery, For one halt hour phe fusilade was kopt up without interruption, whon ft ceased. Gonera! McClellan could account for he coasttion of the artillery Sring—as a3 our troops had nong—on no other grownds than that the enemy had been repulsed and tho Union forces were io puranit ef them, olure proved lo have been the correct one, Jollan returned to camp with the main vofint whore he awaited despatchos feom Gonoral Tmetans, ( possible how far the snecuss tat 0 onomy"s row, Seyqmal vours pares! wway, 1862. a. Ki Antioly were ifested by al! to learn the result Rorccranta’ Assqult, bat in vain. This anxisty, through the evoning and night of the 1ith, continued, (he troopa resting on their arms, momentarily expecting orders to nove forward. At dawn of the 12th—the fourth day aftor the arriv: of the troops near the onemy’s position—Liouter ut J. Kirkiand, of Gon. McClellan's staff, ascended to the sum mit of a small fork of a mountain and awaited for th® firat ray of light which \ discover the onemy’s posi. tion, After patiently waiting for somo time, he saw @ white flag displayed from one of the salients of the ene- | pringipaliworks, Lieutenant Kirkland hastened. to report the result of his special duty to General McCiellan, but found on his return that his information had be anticipated by @ courier froin General Rosecrans. The courler announced the entire success of General Rose- crana’ expedition, resulting in the defeat of the rebels and their furtive retrogt through the mountains; the @apture of al! the rebels’ camp equipage, guna, ammuni- tion, provisions, clothing, &c. A fecling of intense re- lier was occasioned by this good news, the troops cheered to the ocho, the bands played, drums beat, colors waved’ and every conceivable demongtration of joy and victory was maaifestod. The only regret expressed by the troops in the main column was that they had no opportunity to take an active part im an assault on the enemy's main work, which the success of Rosecrans in the rear rendered unne™ cesaary. Tho plan of attacking tho front of the onomy’s work, had it been necessary, was as follows:—To ascond the ridge leading to the enemy’s fortified hill, which was to the right of the main road, just before and near a tura in it, covered by the enemy’s artillery, and in full view of the rebel works. On the night of the 11th Lieutenant Poe, of the Engineers, with tour companies of Ohio Volun- teers, surveyed a practical road over the ridge before mentioned toa point‘on the brow of & mountain, and in ‘@ position where artillery could command the chief salient work of the rebels, as well as to pour an endlading fire in the rear of the main line of breastworks. These guns, had they been placed in position, and their services been deemed necessary, would have rendered the rebels’ work wholly untenable. The road for the artillery, cut by Lieutenant Poe’s command, runs through a dense forest undergrowth. The last part of its construction was disputed by the enemy, who, hearing tho Union troops cutting the brush and trees, fired several rounds of canister shot among them, but without deterring them the least in their work, Tho design was to get the artillery, which. was to consist of Howe’s and Loomis’ batteries, into position and ready to open on the rebels before it was unmasked. The success of General Rose. crans, in the enemy’s rear, but which was not known by the main column when the-road for tho artillery was constructing and the sclection of the position for the guns was being made, rendered further operations unneces- sary, thus saving an immense loss of lifeon doth sides. On the 12th General McCiellan’s main column advanced ‘by the main road into the enemy’s works which had a few hours bofore been occupied by rebels, but now ce- Serted by them. A sirange sight broke upon the view of the spectator as he gazed around and witnessed the evi" dences of the hasty retreat, The rebels io their flight had left their sick and wounded behind them, besides numerous, things before mentioned. On the rebel camp fires, which were all aglow, were pans of frying meat and of newly baked hoe cakes. The surgeons left their in- struments, the engineer left his plans and instruments debind, the personal baggage of the officers and the small wordly efiects of the deluded soldiery were left as tro- phies to the Union troops. GEN. M’CLELLAN’S REPORT Of THE BATTLE. FIRST DESPATCH, Huapquanters, Devantscest oF On, Ricu Mocxrar, July 12—9 A. M. Col. E. D, TownsExDs— We are in sssiou Of all the enemy's works up to a point in sight of Beverly. We have taken all his guns, a very large amount of wagons, tents, &c.—overy thing that he had. A large number of pricouers were also taken, many of whom are wounded and several of whom are officers. The enemy lost many killed. We have lost inall perhaps twenty kiliet and forty wounded, of whom all but two or three bel to the colton under General Rosecrans, which turned the position of the enemy — The mass of the rebels excapet, through woods, entirely dis- organized. the prisoners is Dr. Taylor, formerly of the arwy. Colonel Pegram was in command of the enemy's forcer. General Rosecrans’ column left camp yesterday’ after- noon and marched eight miles through the moun- tains, reaching the turnpike two or three miles in the rear of the enemy, and defeated au advance force and captured a couple of gens. [hada position ready for twelve guns near the rebel main camp, and as the guns were being moved in porition it wos asc thatthe enemy had retreated. 1am now pushing on to Beverly. A part of Gen. Resccrans’ troops.are now within three milca ot it. Oar sucecss is complete and almost biondiess. *The bchavior of eur troops in action, ‘jsouers, is admirabie. SLLAN, Major General Commanding. BECOND DESPATCH. Beversy, July 18, 1961. Col. E, D. Towsdaxp, Wasmncros, D.C: ‘The success of the 11th inst. is ail that I could desire, We captured tix bruss cannon, of which one is rifled, and ali the enemy's camp equiyage ued. transportation, even to his cups. The number of tente will probably reach two hundred, and more than sixty wagons. killed) and wounded will amount to fully one hundred and fifty, with at least one hundred prison- ers, and more coming in consiantly. 1 know already of ten officers killed and prisoners, Their retical was com- plete. Loccupied Beverly by a rapid march, Garnett abandoned his camp at Laurel Hil early this morning, Jeaving much of his eyuipage. He came within a few miles of Boveriy; but our rapid march turned ini back in great confusion, and he is now retreating on the road to St. George. General Morris is to follow him up eiosely. 1 have tele graphed for the two regiments at Cumberland to join Genera! Hill at Rowle-burg. and willcat off Garnett’s re- and towards the G. B. McC treat at West [ aU St. George. Timay say that we bi ut some troops, sttong- ly intrenched, wit en killed and thicty-dive wounded. thow Garnett’s Provision returns ‘ound ne force to have bees 10,000 mien. ‘they were Kasterm Vite inians, Georgians, Tenuesseeans, ani | think , South finians. To-morrow J can give fult (letafis ae to prisoners, &e. [troat that by this tine Genorg! Cox has drawn Wise ont of the Kanawha valley. In that case ! shall have hed (he object of liberating Westeru Virginia. eneral-in-Chief will approve iny operations. i. B. MeCh Major Genera!, Departs SUKRENDEK OF COLONEL PRGRAM, THs REBEL COM- MANDANT, AT RICH MOUNTAIN, At six o’ctock in the morning of the 13th of July, a rebel officer, bearing a flag of trace, rode fte General Mctlellan’s camp at Beverly, bearing the following com mounication from the rebel Colonel Pegrau .-— Baapgcanrens or Mr. Kervis's House, Nrar Tycree's Vaueey Juver, ‘Sit Mings rROM Bevertr, July 12, LS6l. To Tak CommanpIne OrricER of ‘rite Nowriorkx FoRcm, Bavanty, Va i— Sm—I write to state to you that | have, w cousequence the jaded Of the retreat of General Garnett. aud and re- beon without food for two days concluded. with the con- currence of & majority of my captains and Oy aoe have only to add, I truet they will only recetve at your hands such treatment as bas been invariably shown to JOUN PEGRAM, Lieut. Col. P. A, C. $., Commanding. camp, Lieutenant Williams, United States Army ,— EVERLY, Va. July 13, 1861. Y¥ a da does Sirn—Your communication dat y ropow! a surrender as prisoners of War “ot ae Tores ascetnbted a delivered to me, AS tho tof this department, 1 will receive you and them with tho kmdness due. te prisoners of war; but it Mabilities incurred by taking up arms against the States. N, Major General U. 8. A., Comdg. Dept. ‘The erent was announced to the War Department in Heapquantens, Col. B. D. Towxsexp, Washington, D. C.— T have received from Colonel Pegram propositions for , say six tindred men, They are said to be extremely penitent, and determined never in tO take ‘Bear nine dred or ten hundred prisoners to take care ‘of when Colone! Pegram comes in, The latest accounts fifty. . B. Ny Major General, Department of Ohio. GARNETT IN A TIGHT PLACE—HI3 RETREAT, Pograwn at Rich Mountain, began to ‘inderstand the ox tont of his danger, and mado haste to extricate himself advantage nor eyon retreat with success, He left his intreuchments the morning after the defeat at Kich hoping by groat expedition to reach that place belore Geveral McClellan aponld arrive. By the time be had got retreating Colum informed him that the offort was hopeless, “Raverly was seoupied in force by the Union his «tops, ant retrace bis path to Leedsville, where Another turnpike road branched oif W the wortheast, on speed he passed Lfedsville the same afternoon, and pressed on along the base of the mountains down the ay of Virginio, rowing away, therefore, «1 gupar- se haggege te lo beapitig and soa turned oi trom duced condition of my command, most of them having to surrenders my cominaud to you as prisoners of war. the Northerm prisoners by the Soath. General MeCiellan sont the following reply by his wit Jony Pxonam, Eeq., styling bimeelf AES me nder your command, has been commande: ig not in my power to relieve you and them from any United GEORGE B, MCOLELLAD the foliow ing report:-— , Bevency, Va., July 13, 1961. his surrender, with his oMvers and the remnant of his command up atts against the Cm ea shall bave make the lose of the rebels in killed one hnudred and G. B. MCULELLA: The rebol Garnott, upon learning of the defeat of Col. from a position in which he could no longer Aght with Mountain, and moved at ones south toward Beverly, within afow miles of it tho fugitives from Pegraia s troops. His only cemaining resource was to turn upon the other side of Laurel Hi. Parsuing thie routs with all Cheat river, hoping to dnd some practicable path into the fin toad iho a naeeow patty Along bie Monutaing, — er camo.) Thé déopest solicitudes @nd | aad 4 of | the The of which ho paasod by felting acroas it.” rebeis from Laure’ Hill took place oM defile ¢ tne Thuraday evening, July 11, but was not discovered by Gen. Morris until the following morning. Orders were given for immediate pursuit. Following with = somewhat larger portion himself, he sent Capt Beubam forward with the advance division, giving him orders to press forward after the rebels as far as Leedsville, secure the ford at that place and await his arrival. Capt. Ben- ham set out instantly, at first with caution, for it might have been only # feiug to draw us on into an attack; but on reaching the intrenchments they were found entiraly deserted, and the Captain had the ploasure to be the fira® officer within the avandondd works. This order to hats was unfortunate. Had Captain Benat been authoriged to advance further a more eflectual pursuit might have deem made; but, held back by positive directions, ho was to walt—his mon under arms and ready tore sume the purauif—till General Morris arrived, at toa o'clock P.M, It was then too late to snove till morning: the mien wanted rest, and they were allowed a briet slumber of three hours—trom eleven in tho evening wutit two,A. M.—when the pursuit was eagerly resumod. The pursuit was 4 momorabie one, Captain Benham led with 1,800 men, composed of Ohio and “Indiana troops: Geno- ral’Morris followed with the rear. Up and down the mountains, through defiles and over rugged ridges, everywhero impeded by the obstructivus thrown in tho way by the flying enomy, the pursuit was pressed with ardor. Mauy men fell behind from hunger and exhaustion. At length, after crossing ono of the branches of Choat river, our troops discovered tho pro- vision train of the rebels at rest; but a soldier firing bie musket apprisod the onemy of ourapproach, and the train was soom in full retreat, two rebel regiments coming to the rear to protect it, before our first regiment could roach the ford. his caused a further pursuit of three or four miles, when tho train was again over taken half across the stream; and here General Garnett made a vigorous stand for its defence. ‘I'he lo- culity afforded a fine position to repel our assault. Cheat river, in ono of its numerous bends, winds here around a bluff fifty or sixty fect high, the lower portion of whicl: is covered with a dense growth of laurel, through which it Is almost impossible to penetrate. On the topof the bluff he placed his cannon, whichswept our approach to the ford; while his troops were drawn up in line some four hundred feet in longth, with the remainer of his forces within a mile. They were all protected from our fire by a fence, which showed only their heads above it, and by aumerous trees which afforded them a cover. Qn coming up the Seventh Indiana regiment, Colonet Dumont, prossed into the stream , crossed it, and attempted to scale the blaff in front, in face of the enemy’s fire of musketry and artillery ; but the steepness of the ascent Tondered it impossible. When Captain Bonham came up hefound the mem climbing the steop ascont almost on their faces ; aud, seeing the difficulty of success, he or- dosed the men down again into the stream. At our right was a dopression inthe bluff, just where a ravine came down to the river, and he directed them to try the ascent there, They did so, but found the way go steep and 60 obstructed by the dense codar roots that they soon found this, too, impossible. The troops were then ordered to cross the stream, keeping in its bed, immediately under the binif, to pass it to our left, where they could gain the road. This was immediately executed. The men passed down the whole front part of the evemy, protected 6o effectually by the steepness of the bank from his fire that they emerged on the right of the rebels without losing a man; and as the hoad of the column showed itself on their dank the rebels fled, leaving oue of their guns and a aumber of killed, wounded and prisoners in our hands, About a quarter of a mile im advance the river makes another turn; and here the enemy again attempted astand. Gen. Garnett him. self bravely stood, aud tried to rally his meu around him, but in vain. He then begged for thirty skirmishers to go back and pick off the federal officers. Afew dt@ return with bim to the bank of the stream; but as our troops came up the rebels fired a volley and again ded, leaving Garnett with only a single companion. Our troops ran forward to the bank of the stream and fired upon the fugitives. General Garbett was strack, « Minie byllet piercing the heart and coming outat the right nipple. He fell dead. . Of about five thousand troops: which Garnett bad in his inireuchmeuts only about tyo thousand escaped, in 9 disorganized and demoralized condition. Colonel Dument continued the pursuit tem miles, and bivouacked on the battle, ground. In tho re- treat the road was strewn with all sorts of military equipage. Our troops captured forty loaded wagons, one rifled cannon and two stand of cojors, and several hun- dred prisoners. The flight was turned isto a disastrous. rout. Our loss was two killed and two mortally wounded. - ‘The rebels lost all their tents, camp equipage, army chests, knapsacks and large quantities of ammunition, ‘They retreated up the Horseshoe. GENERAL M’CLELLAN’S REPORT OF THE AFFAIR. Geveral McClellan, on learning the news of the defeat of Garnett, sent the following report to the War Bepart- ment at Washington :— Col. E. D. Towxsexn, Washington, D. C.:— General Garnett and bis forces have becn routed ana his and one Sie aeee, His army are oom- pletely r Garnett was killed while attempting to rally bis forces at Carrick’s Ford, near St. Gi . We have completely annihilated the enomy in Wi Virginia. Our loss is but thirteen killed and not Sg than fourtesn wounded, while the enemy's loss is not far from two bundred killed, and the num| of prisoners we Baye taken will ameunt to at least one vuxand. We have captured seven of the enemy's guns in all, A portion of Garnett’s forces retreated; Suet look for their capture by General Hill, who is in hot pur- suit, The troops that Garnett had under hts command are anid to be crack regiments of Eastern Virginia, aided by Georgians, Tenuesseeans and Carolinians. Our suc- cos i , and I firmly believe that secession is kitied in this section of the country. @. B. McCLELLAN, Major Geuerai United States Army. GENERAL HILL'S OPERATIONS. ‘The rebels under Garnett, in their retreat, partially slip ping through the fingers of General Morris, who failed to match and defeat bis onewy as contemplated in the plam of Genetal McClellan. The Commander-in-Chief provided. anothor means of meeting the rebels in their retreat. Ay contemplated in the genera! plan of operations, General Hill, with his brigade, was to leave Grafton on receipt of the intelligence of the retreat ef Garnett from Lauret Hill, and proceed down the Baltimore and Obio Railroad to Oakland, and march from thence to Red House, wher® General McClcllan properly supposed the rotroating column would be met. The intelligence of the retreat og the rebels was furnished General Hill, and on Saturday afternoon, July 13, he let Grafton, with a column of two thousand five hundred men. Red Mouse—the point of ‘oporations—is sixty-eight miles from Grafton. Ho pro- coeded to Oakland, ifty-two miles from Grafton, by rails which he reached at about nine o'clock the same night, where he halted and encamped his troops fur the night. At this place he received additional reinforcements ‘and two pieces of artillery. His column was then com- posed exclusively of Ohio troops. General Hill sent @ small detaghment to a piace called West Union, ia hopes of intercepting the retreating rebels at that pot. Tho main body of his brigade remainod at ‘Onkland wntil ten o'clock on Sunday, July 14, whone courior ¢ame in and reported that the retreating enemy had broakfasted at a place four miles distant from Oak” land. General Hill felt much chagrined at the news, and Ymmediately ordered his brigade forward in pursuit of ‘the rebels. This he continued for a distance of oight miles, coming insight of the retreating troops, and, en roule, pidking up stragglers. from them, also all descrip. tions ef arms and equipments. Fer some unoxpiained reason General Hill ordered a retrograde movement, am@ returned to Rod House, where he remained until rete. forced by two additional regiments. Fe started again pursuit of the rebels, and followed them until they crossed the north branch of the Potomac, ab a place called Waverley, where thoy wore largely reinforced, He then rotarned with his force to Oakland and Grafton, having failedin the movement. Had General Hill con- tinued his march on Saturday night from Oakland t 0 Red House, as contemplated by General MoClelian, not one of the 2,500 or more retreating rebols would have eseaped capture. OCCUPATION Ol AUTTONSVILLE AND CHEAT MOUN- TAIN PASS. On the 13th of July General McClellan, with the main body of his army, crossed Choat Mountein and oncamped his troops in the Tittle viliage of Beverly. His advent was hailed with delight by the inkabitanis, most of whom appeared to be loyal to the Union. He was told feartuy stories of the manner ‘0 which tho rebel soldiers had treated them, and was assured that they were glad the rebels had been driven away By Union bayonets. Karly 00 the 14th of July General McClellan ordered = brigade of his troops, to proceed. to Hattonayille, and from there to push another force to Cheat Mountain Pasa» to provent the retreating rebels from crossing into the valley of Rastern Virginis, The movement was oxocutod promptly and in good time, and met with perfeot suocess. ORN. M'CLELLAN'S. CONGRATULATORY ADDRES TO vaste pase tr ag Tae Sorouns oF 186 ARMY OF TH