We make the following extract from a private letter, dated Frederick, Md„ July 1—the day before Gen. Patterson with his forces crossed the Potomac:
“Our army is still on the Maryland side, in sufficient strength to drive the rebels away. They are awaiting orders from Gen. Scott whenever he says the word, they will pass over. From the west they have come in as far as Cumberland. As regards the armament of the rebels, of which they boast so much you may depend it is all vain boasting. Of cannon they have but few, and those are small. l am informed, by one who has seen them daily, that they are not half armed, and are poorly drilled and disciplined. Their fortifications are of the poorest character, scarcely worth being named. They are poorly supplied with shoes, leather, salt, coffee, clothing of a serviceable character, army buttons, and enameled cloth. Had our boys gone to Martinsburg, instead of recrossing the river, they could have marched into the place, and would have been hailed with joy. They were expected by the loyal-citizens, who were hoping for a happy deliverance from bridge and car-burning confederates.
Worcester Daily Spy, Worcester, MA, July 6, 1861