Conclusive as the reasoning of General McDowell seems, it did not move Mr.Lincoln from his purpose; and the heavy re-enforcement which was then within three days of the point where it could most effectively aid McClellan, was diverted to a hopeless and useless pursuit.

Had McDowell been allowed to proceed as he desired and as General McClellan confidently expected, he would have re-enforced the Army of the Potomac for an attack on Lee, while Stonewall Jackson's corps was in the Shenandoah Valley.

By the unfortunate diversion ordered by Mr.Lincoln, precisely the reverse occurred.

Stonewall Jackson's corps arrived before Richmond in season to aid in defeating McClellan, while McDowell with his splendid contingent was aimlessly loitering in a distant part of Virginia.
The President was led into this course by the urgent advice of the Secretary of War.

When McClellan went to the field, Mr.Stanton undertook personally to perform the duties of General-in-Chief in Washington.