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heavy piece of ordnance, followed by the explosion of a shell overhead, warned
the invaders that they were not to be left in undisturbed possession of Bolivar
Heights. Shell after shell came from two or three Federal batteries in rapid
succession, and the reconnoisance (for that was all it was), having fulfilled its
mission of conveying to the enemy the impression that Jackson intended to cross
into Maryland at that point, General Steuart ordered Colonel Johnson to
withdraw.

This expedition under command of General Steuart evidently frightened the
Federals in Harper's Ferry out of their wits, and carried consternation to the
authorities in Washington. It is amusing to read some of the many dispatches
forwarded to Stanton by one General R. Saxton, then in command at Harper's
Ferry, one or two of which we will quote:

HARPER'S FERRY, June 1, 1862.

The Honorable E. M. Stanton:

The enemy moved up in force last evening about 7 o'clock, in a shower of rain, to
attack. I opened on them from the position which the troops occupy above the town and
from the Dahlgren battery on the mountains. The enemy then retired. Their pickets
attacked ours twice last night. A volley from General Hough's breastworks drove them
back. We lost one man killed. My men are overworked. Stood by their guns all night
in the rain. What has become of Generals Fremont and McDowell?

R. SAXTON, Brigadier-General.

HARPER'S FERRY, May 31. 1862.
The Honorable E. M. Stanton:

Telegraph General McDowell to press on with all possible haste. All my pickets
driven in last night. Enemy in force in my front, and, I believe, on both flanks. My
position is strong. Shall try to hold it.

R. SAXTON, Brigadier-General.

Stanton telegraphs Saxton :

WASHINGTON, May 31. 1862
Brigadier-General Sajcton:

Report immediately by telegraph the particulars of the disgraceful conduct of Maulsby's
Regiment in abandoning their post last night.

EDWIN M. STANTON. Secretary of War.