It would be better to have the garrisons engaged there added to Butler's command.

If success attended our arms both places, and others too, would fall into our hands naturally.

These places had been occupied by Federal troops before I took command of the armies, and I knew that the Executive would be reluctant to abandon them, and therefore explained my views; but before my views were carried out the rebels captured the garrison at Plymouth.

I then ordered the abandonment of Washington, but directed the holding of New Berne at all hazards.

This was essential because New Berne was a port into which blockade runners could enter.
General Banks had gone on an expedition up the Red River long before my promotion to general command.