March 1, 1865
There is some reason to believe that a sufficient rebel force is concentrating in Pocahontas, Preston and Randolph counties for a raid into the country bordering the line of the Baltimore road east and southwest of Grafton. Parties who ought to know tell us that such is their information. A letter from our garrison at Bulston a few days ago, reported that a scouting expedition discovered indications of a gathering force of the enemy. The Upshur County Republican , in its last issue, spoke of apprehensions entertained on account of the disaster to the force at Beverly. The entrance of a small force into Cumberland on the night of the 20th, and the capture of two Major Generals there, shows that there is a body of rebel still intent on mischief in West Virginia, and also that their boldness is of the most desperate character. We must remember that these partisan bands are now ready to attempt exploits far more reckless in their nature than ever before. Unless they can divert attention from Eastern Virginia, they realize that their occupation will soon be gone. We doubt not their instructions are to dare everything.
--Wheeling Intelligencer.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: Undated: March 1865