Sept. 13, 1862, 12 M, Telegram: Gen. George B. McClellan to President Abraham Lincoln

TELEGRAM-WAR DEPARTMENT RECEIVED COPY

Gen. George B. McClellan to President Abraham Lincoln

Sept. 13, 1862, 12 M (Note: Should be 12 Midnight.)

This is a carbon copy of the War Department's received telegram, written in the hand of a War Department telegraphic operator and used after the Civil War for the Official Records. Trophies telegram, p. 1.

This is a carbon copy of the War Department's received telegram, written in the hand of a War Department telegraphic operator and used after the Civil War for the Official Records. Trophies telegram, p. 2.

Transcription:
Time Received 2:35 AM

Washington, D. C., Sept 14 1862.

Hd Qrs Frederick Sept 13, 12 M (Note: Should be 12 Midnight.)

I have the whole Rebel force in front of me but am confident and no time shall be lost. I have a difficult task to perform but with Gods blessing will accomplish it. I think Lee has made a gross mistake & that he will be severely punished for it. The army is in motion as rapidly as possible. I hope for a great success if the plans of the Rebels remain unchanged We have possession of Cotocktane. I have all the plans of the Rebels and will catch them in their own trap if my men are equal to the emergency.

I now feel that I can t count on them as of old. All forces of Penna should be placed to cooperate at Chambersburg. [continued on page 2] My respects to Mrs Lincoln. Received most enthusiastically by the ladies. Will send you trophies.  All well and with Gods blessing will accomplish it.

Geo B McClellan.

[continued on page 2] 

Notes:

McClellan’s original sending copy of this telegram has not been located. There is a time-stamp discrepancy between Lincoln's copy and the War Department received copy. Lincoln's copy is time-stamped "12 Midnight." The War Department copy is time-stamped "12 M." For noon. Overwhelming evidence shows that the sent time was midnight. For a detailed analysis, see The McClellan Debate.

Source: 
National Archives

• Series : Generals' Papers and Books, compiled 1830 - 1884

• HMS Entry Number(s): PI17 159A PI17 159AA (...)

• Record Group 94: Records of the Adjutant General's Office, 1762 - 1984