Alfred Roman, The military operations of General Beauregard in the war between the states, 1861 to 1865

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Messrs. McLean, Wilcoxen, Kincheloe, and Branner, citizens of this immediate vicinity, it is their due to say, have placed me and the country under great obligations for the information relative to this region, which has enabled me to avail myself of its defensive features and resources. They were found ever ready to give me their time, without stint or reward.

Our casualties, in all sixty-eight killed and wounded, were—killed, and—wounded, several of whom have since died. The loss of the enemy can only be conjectured; it was unquestionably heavy. In the cursory examination, which was made by details from Longstreet's and Early's brigades on the 18th of July, of that part of the field immediately contested, and near Blackburn's Ford, some sixty-four corpses were found and buried, some few wounded, and at least twenty prisoners were also picked up, besides one hundred and seventy-five stands of arms, a large quantity of accoutrements and blankets, and quite one hundred and fifty hats.

The effect of this day's conflict was to satisfy the enemy he could not force a passage across Bull Run in face of our troops, and led him into the flank movement of the 21st July, and the battle of Manassas, the details of which will be related in another paper.

Herewith I have the honor to transmit the reports of the several brigade commanders engaged, and of the artillery; also a map of the field of battle.

The rendition of this report, it is proper to say, in conclusion, has been unavoidably delayed by the constantly engrossing administrative duties of the commander of an army corps composed wholly of volunteers—duties virtually essential to its well-being and future efficiency, and a which I could not set aside or postpone on any account.

I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. T. Beauregard, Genl. Comdg.

Appendix to Chapter IX.

camp Pickens, July 21st, 1861.

General,—General Jones's Adjutant comes in to report that the Federal troops are between us and General Jones, and approaching.

Thos. G. Rhett, A. Adj.-Genl.

(Received at about 6 1/2 o'clock P. M.)

Manassas Junction, Va., July 21st, 1861. Sent at 5 1/2 h. A. M.

General,—You will hold yourself in readiness to take the offensive on Centreville at a moment's notice, to make a diversion against the enemy's intended attack on Mitchell's Ford and, probably, Stone Bridge. You will protect well your right flank against any attack from the eastward.

General Holmes's brigade will support your movement.

If the enemy be prepared to attack in front of your left, leave it (said brigade)