What should’ve happened is this: On or about 6/21, when the Loudoun cavalry battles died out, the bulk of the confederate cavalry totaling 5 brigades (approximately 8,000 men) were concentrated at Ashby’s pass, Snicker’s pass and Aldie. Meanwhile the Rebel infantry was drawing away to the North. Lee, thru Stuart should’ve issued specific orders for the South Mountain passes to be occupied and used as a base for patrolling to the SE & East in the direction of Middleton and Frederick. This didn’t happen. Instead, the rebel infantry marched away leaving the rebel cavalry far in the rear.

Clearly, this was a negligent use of Cavalry of which both Lee and Stuart share the blame.

Sorry, Eric, this was in reply to Valerie’s post – I’ve paraphrased above.

Do you know something I don’t? Other than pre-war courting, I am unaware of there being any sort of inappropriate contact between Flora Stuart and Beverly Robertson. Trust me, Stuart had plenty of reasons to despise Robertson that had nothing to do with Flora. Stuart called him “the most difficult man in the army” for good reason. He was a sycophant and martinet who was a real stickler for protocol.

Eric

Unfortunately, I have no idea what you’re talking about. Where did you get the idea that there are Robertson letters? NOTHING that I wrote says or suggests that. Unless you can enlighten me, I fear that there is nothing I can do to assist you.

Eric