Private ansd Head Quarters Nov - 2nd,, Camp near Darnstown Md. October 15th,, 1861 My Dear Sir. I have neglected to reply to your note, concerning Mr: D'Hautville, for the reason that I have been waiting for a long time to gain a sufficient foundation for the organization of my staff - I think now that will be accomplished by the assignment to my Head Quarters of Capt Perkins & the 4th Artillery - This I trust will be accomplished in a few days and I shall then be in condition to select others and also to provide for Mr D'Hautville as you suggested in your note- I ought to say perhaps, that my arrangements in that direction ought to receive [2] the approval of the Commanding General of the Department - Genl,, McClellan - and I doubt not that can be obtained - We are having fine weather in Maryland now, but it has been for a time very cold - We are hoping for Southern Winter Quarters - The movement of the army of Washington, Southward must stir up an enemy, some-where. - and we may then look for an engagement, and if successful a further advance - It is quite possible, however, that the withdrawal of the rebels may extend to Richmond - in which case they would avoid an immediate encounter, and trust to their arms in Missouri & Kentucky for their next successes - The Massachusetts troops are not in line of comparison with those of most other states either as to officers men or equipment - The troops of other states, seem to be newer - Ours, comparatively [3] have the aid of Veterans - I believe however that all our soldiers will fight well. The President looks to me fatigued and oppressed - He is sadly changed since I rec'd from him my Commission - He came out here a week ago, Sunday, with the Secretary of State and Genl, McClellan. - He was very kind, but I could not feel sensibly, the wight he had borne since he entered the Presidency. I notice that Mr: Appleton has resigned his seat in Congress. His letter seemed to me considering his position [illegible] & political singularly happy in its [struck: expression] construction - I hope, the fifth District - will be wise enough to send you in his place - It will be for them a grand mistake if it prove otherwise I beg you will present my regards to [4] Mrs,, Hooper and to the young ladies, as also to your son & his lady, - If you get so far from home as to reach "Darnstown" I shall be delighted to see you. I am Very Truly Yours N.P. Banks [docket] About D'Hautville Genl. NP Banks As Aid de Camp.