The New York Times
May 28, 1861
Our Washington advices contain information showing how extremely unprepared are the rebels for active hostilities. For the occupation of the important junction of the Manassas Gap with the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, whereat communications with Harper’s Ferry may be kept open and an advance on Richmond opposed, only 5,000 men had been detailed, and these imperfectly armed and equipped, and with no disposition to assume the offensive. They were busy, when last observed, entrenching their position, as if it were merely a defensive one. It is quite time to inquire into the whereabouts of that great patriotic army, with which Gov. Letcher engaged to sweep the first invader of the sacred soil into the Potomac. Its opportunity for a speedy redemption of the pledge is swiftly disappearing. Had the blow been struck last week, it might have succeeded. This week, with the reinforcements thrown in from Washington, it has become doubtful. Next week it will be impossible. Aux armes, Letcher! or your head may do penance for its weakness in vulgar hemp.