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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 6, 1861.

Lieut. Col. D. A. LANGHORNE, Lynchburg, Va.:

COLONEL: In my letter to you of this date you were directed to muster the volunteer companies from the counties of Campbell, Bedford, Roanoke, Botetourt, and Craig distinct from the troops coming from the other counties named in my letter. The reason of this is, that Col. P. St. G. Cocke had already been ordered to muster the troops from these five counties into the service of the State, and to send an officer to Lynchburg for that purpose, and they are designed to serve in his division. The order to Colonel Cocke to send an officer to Lynchburg to muster the troops from these counties will be countermanded, and, though mustered into service by you, they will be considered as a part of the troops intended for Colonel Cocke’s line, who will order them to some point on his line, after you notify him that they have been mustered into service.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., Hay 6, 1861.

Lieut. Col. JOHN ECHOLS, Union, Monroe County, Va.:

COLONEL: Under the authority of the governor of Virginia, by his proclamation of the 3d instant, you are hereby authorized to call out and muster into the service of the State volunteer companies from the counties of Pendleton, Augusta, Pocahontas, Monroe, Highland, Bath, Rockbridge, Greenbrier, and Alleghany, to rendezvous at Staunton, in Augusta County. The whole number of companies thus called into service will not exceed two regiments of infantry and riflemen. You Will organize them into regiments, associating together, as far as possible, troops from the same region. Place them under such officers as are available, until their proper field officers can be appointed by the governor. It is hoped that you will be able rapidly to organize the whole force, and you are requested to report as soon as possible the number of companies mustered into the service of the State, their arms, condition, &C.

I am, respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. BRIGADIER-GENERAL COMMANDING, Norfolk, Va., May 6, 1861.

Maj. Gen. ROBERT E. LEE, Commanding Forces of the State of Virginia:

GENERAL: I have received your communication of the 3d instant,* and am happy to assure you that, while there was some difference of opinion between Flag Officer French Forrest and myself in regard to the extent of my command over the munitions and stores of the navy {p.809} yard, as well as in other parts of my command, there has been, and ,still [is], the most cordial co-operation in all measures intended for the common defense, not only between Commodore Forrest and myself, but between all the officers of the Army and Navy in this command. As an illustration of this, I may mention that one of the most important posts of my command, viz, Fort Norfolk, is under the command of Capt. Arthur Sinclair, of the Navy, including all the land forces stationed at that post.

The immediate occasion of the communication of Commodore Forrest, of which I sent you the copy, was the act of Captain Fairfax, ordnance officer, in taking possession without my knowledge of the whole supply of percussion caps within my control, the greater part of which, I understood he was about to send off to Richmond under an order from Colonel Dimmock, which would have left my whole force inefficient. Besides which, I had not been able, notwithstanding my repeated requests, to get any sufficient information as to the quantity of munitions and stores in the navy-yard, which information was indispensable to the proper discharge of my duties. Under these circumstances I thought it best to send that communication to Commodore Forrest with a view to the prevention of further embarrassments and misunderstandings. I must add that I have not yet been able to get the inventory of the munitions and stores in the navy-yard, nor has the commodore made any reply to that part of the above-mentioned communication. I trust, however, that your communication will remove all doubt upon the point of difference above indicated.

I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WALTER GWYNN, Brigadier-General, Commanding Forces in Norfolk Harbor.

* Not found.

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DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 6, 1861.

General LEE, Commander-in-Chief:

GENERAL: I assumed command of this post on Monday last, soon after my arrival here. Since that time I have been busily occupied organizing the command and mustering the troops into service. I send herewith a report of the strength for May 4.* To-morrow I will give you a more detailed account of the forces, equipments, &c. All the troops have been mustered into service, except some companies on detached service. I have occupied the Virginia and Maryland Heights, and I am about fortifying the former with block-houses of sufficient strength to resist an attempt to carry them by storm. Whenever the emergency calls for it, I shall construct similar works on the Maryland Heights. Thus far I have been deterred from doing so by a desire to avoid giving offense to the latter State. If you have an experienced engineer officer, I hope that you will order him here, if you have no duty for him elsewhere. There are four 6-pounder guns here without caissons. I respectfully request that you will send the caissons, and also two 6-pounder batteries and two extra 12-pounder howitzers, all fully supplied with ammunition, horses, equipments, and everything necessary for being turned over to companies now waiting for then). Reliable information has been received that the Federal troops are at the Relay House. As {p.810} four thousand flints have been found here, I have taken the responsibility of ordering the one thousand flint-lock rifles from the Lexington Arsenal, and also ten barrels of musket and ten barrels of rifle powder, as in my opinion the emergency justified the order. Should the Federal troops advance in this direction, I shall no longer stand on ceremony. In addition to the cavalry stationed at Point of Rocks, I this morning ordered two 6-pounders to the same position. The enemy, from good authority, are about four thousand strong in the neighborhood of Chambersburg. About two-thirds of the machinery from the musket factory has been removed from here. This morning Mr. John Ambler, the quartermaster in Winchester, informed me that the merchants were paying double freights, and were thus securing all the transportation. To prevent the consequent delay of the machinery, I directed him to impress the wagons. He also notified me that the baggage cars from Strasburg were employed in carrying flour from the valley to New York, and that every barrel would be required for our use. To remedy this evil, until the subject could be referred to you, and also to secure the transportation for the machinery, I directed him to impress the cars. About four hundred and eighty Kentucky volunteers are here without arms, and stand greatly in need of them. I directed some old arms to be issued to them, but they refused to receive them. I refer the subject to you, with the hope that something may be done towards arming them. The material is good. My object is to put Harper’s Ferry in the most defensible state possible, and hence feel it my duty to give the best arms to the Virginia troops, as the others may at any time be ordered off. The news from the northwest shows great disaffection, especially in Ohio County.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS, Fredericksburg, Va., May 6, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Volunteer Forces, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have the honor to transmit, for the consideration of the general commanding the forces, the report of Maj. Thomas H. Williamson, chief engineer of the State, respecting the proposed battery at Mathias Point, the substance of which has been already communicated by mail and telegraph. I am making every possible preparation for the prosecution of the work. There is very little probability of executing it without threatened or real molestation, for which, of course, I shall endeavor to be prepared.

I also transmit a report of Major Williamson, made of a reconnaissance directed by me on assuming the command at this station. I regard the Aquia Creek Landing and the preservation of the steamer George Page as of secondary importance, except in the moral influence, necessarily involved in the endeavor to protect a point regarded important by a community unused to the chances and vicissitudes of war. It is difficult as a position to defend, being easily turned by the Potomac Creek, and exposed to disaster from an attack in the rear. It has served its purpose of drawing attention from the two important points on the Potomac supposed to control its navigation, and which, when occupied, will render a battery at this place of little importance.

I am without camp equipage and field artillery (Captain Walker’s company excepted), and request the general’s early consideration of the subject.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL RUGGLES, Brigadier-General Virginia Volunteers, Commanding Form.

[Inclosures.]

FREDERICKSBURG) VA., May 4, 1861.

SIR: In obedience to your verbal orders, I have examined Mathias Point, on the Potomac, and the shores of the Rappahannock to its mouth, with the view of selecting proper points for batteries, to prevent the enemy passing up those rivers, when we think proper to do so. Mathias Point is a bluff headland, twenty feet above the water, and while I was there a wax steamer passed the point and showed me the channel. I also made inquiries of persons who were recommended to me by the gentlemen in the neighborhood, and learned from them that the extreme distance from the shore to the farther side of the channel is not over three-quarters of a mile, and that a vessel would be in that range at that distance for one mile. I would recommend at Mathias Point a semicircular sunken battery, on the side next the river, for ten heavy guns, and an intrenchment, with a strong profile and plan, on the land side. Should the enemy attempt to land on the point between Gambo Creek and the Potomac, or go up Machodoc Creek to land, with a view of attacking the fort, a detachment would be required at that point to prevent their landing.

After examining Mathias Point, I proceeded across to the Rappahannock River and examined a point called Bristolmine Creek. The bluff in the intersection of this creek with the river is high (sixty-five or seventy-five feet), and commands the river completely, both up and down; and the guns of a battery at this point would cover the ground inland all around. The ridge between Bristolmine and Machodoc Creeks falls suddenly towards the valley of the Mattox Creek, and this sink extends about fifteen miles down the neck between the Potomac and the Rappahannock, and is completely overlooked from the ridge, so that no force could land below and march up the country without being observed from many points on the ridge. There are two roads passing up this ridge; one by Millville, at the head of Rosier’s Creek, and the other at the head of Bristolmine Creek. The intervening ridge is covered with a dense forest, and the roads through it could be easily obstructed, should the enemy attempt (which is not likely) to pass through it. Detachments at Millville, and at the road at the head of Bristolmine Creek, would be in good positions to watch the country below, And to offer resistance to their march. This line of defense, in conjunction with forts at Mathias Point and the White House, which would prevent the enemy using the Potomac, would protect the railroad communication with Richmond on the east side, and keep up the line to the South, through the Carolinas, as well as the nature of the ground and the very extensive line will admit, from Jamestown to the White House.

At your request I accompanied Commander Lewis down the Rappahannock River to its mouth. The points lowest down the river where batteries would be effective in preventing the passage of vessels are at Lowery’s and Accokeek Points, about seven miles below Tappahannock. The channel does not exceed three-quarters of a mile from these points, {p.812} and a small redoubt, with five or six heavy guns on each point, would close the passage to any vessels that are likely to attempt it.

Respectfully submitted.

THOS. H. WILLIAMSON, Major of Engineers, Virginia Army.

Brigadier-General RUGGLES.

FREDERICKSBURG, VA., May 6, 1861.

Since writing the above, at the request of Captain Lynch, and by your verbal directions, I have been to Mathias Point, and measured the distances of the opposite shores of the channel from the Point, and find the far side of the channel five thousand eight hundred feet, and the near side two thousand three hundred and thirty feet, which makes the width of the channel three thousand four hundred and seventy feet.

Respectfully submitted.

THOS. H. WILLIAMSON, Major of Engineers, Virginia Army.

Brigadier-General RUGGLES.

(NOTE.-The U. S. Coast Survey chart of Potomac River will explain this report.)

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Extract from a letter addressed to Capt. D. N. Ingraham by Capt. W. F. Lynch.

I am given to understand that the intention of erecting a battery at Mathias Point is not abandoned. Although, after sounding the channel off that point, I expressed, in my report, the opinion that a cross-fire from it upon a steamer, at a distance of a mile and a quarter, for the space of about five minutes, would be a waste of ammunition, yet I am ready to obey any order upon the subject; and, in pursuance of the intimation I have received, respectfully ask what guns can be furnished for that position? It was originally designed to mount twelve 8-inch guns there and a like number at the White House. To the latter place I gave the preference.

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RICHMOND, May 6, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Commander-in-Chief

SIR: I desire to be informed as to the course to be pursued by me in the event of a ship of war of the United States attempting to pass the batteries on Gloucester Point when they shall be erected and in condition for service.

Is the attempt to be resisted, or shall I await the institution of more decisive hostilities on the part of the United States authorities?

This political question I desire to have decided, and ask your instructions on the subject.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. B. TALIAFERRO, Colonel Volunteers, Commanding Gloucester Point.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT. Richmond, Va., May 7, 1861.

Maj. Gen. ROBERT E. LEE, Commanding, &c.:

SIR: You will assume the command of all the volunteers, or other forces from other States, who have or may hereafter report for duty or tender their services to the State of Virginia, until orders are received from the President of the Confederate States in reference to the same.

JOHN LETCHER.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 7, 1861.

Col. P. ST. COCKE, Culpeper Court-House, Va.:

COLONEL: The general commanding is in want of information from you as to the strength and organization of your command, and begs that you will supply him with it at the earliest moment. The return due on the 1st instant, by General Orders, No. 4, has not been received. The general desires particularly to know with what force you can take the field, provided any movement is made against you from Washington; how it would be composed, officered, and what service could be counted on from it.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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RICHMOND, May 7, 1861.

To SECRETARY OF WAR:

Major Shivers received orders from Governor Letcher to-day to move on Harper’s Ferry with four companies of my regiment five hundred men, which arrived last night, and had made preparations to move tomorrow morning. I have just arrived with two hundred and twenty-six men. Two companies yet behind. There are satisfactory reasons for postponing this movement. I have countermanded the order, not being subject to Governor Letcher’s orders, and wait instructions from War Department. Shall I obey Governor Letcher and proceed when my regiment is complete? Climate of Harper’s Ferry will affect my men’s health, which is one of the reasons referred to.

A. G. BLANCHARD, Colonel Louisiana Regiment.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 7, 1861.

Col. J. B. BALDWIN, Inspector-General:

COLONEL: Under authority of the governor, by his proclamation of the 3d instant, you are authorized to call and muster into the service of the State volunteers from the counties of Pittsylvania, Halifax, Charlotte, Mecklenburg, Brunswick, Grayson, Nottoway, Prince Edward, Appomattox, Buckingham, Louisa, Hanover, Goochland, Powhatan, Cumberland, Henrico, Amelia, Fluvanna, and the city of Richmond, to rendezvous at Richmond, not to exceed seven regiments of infantry and riflemen, one regiment of cavalry, and six batteries of artillery, of four {p.814} pieces each, including those that have already been accepted into the service from said counties. The companies, after being admitted into the service of the State, will be organized into regiments and those from the same section, as far as practicable, united . As fast as mustered into service they will be ordered to report to the commander of the camp of instruction near Richmond.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 7, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

GENERAL: I forward herewith a statement Of the strength of my command at this post, of the deficiency of arms, ammunition, and accouterments.*

The deficiencies I respectfully request may be supplied at the earliest practicable period, as I wish to put the post in as defensible a condition as possible. I have finished reconnoitering the Maryland Heights, and have determined to fortify them at once, and hold them, as well as the Virginia Heights and the town, be the cost what it may. For this purpose I would urge the necessity of giving me an ample supply of good arms, and such disciplined troops as you can spare (though it should swell the number here to nine thousand five hundred or ten thousand men). Two pieces of field artillery (12-pounders) should be placed on the Virginia Heights, and a larger number of 6-pounders on the Maryland Heights. Heavier ordnance, in addition to the field pieces referred to in yesterday’s letter, could be advantageously employed in defending the town. The heights west of Bolivar must be strengthened. I would be more than gratified could you spare the time for a short visit here, to give me the benefit of your wisdom and experience in laying out the different works, especially those on the heights. I am of the opinion that this place should be defended with the spirit which actuated the defenders of Thermopylae, and, if left to myself, such is my determination. The fall of this place would, I fear, result in the loss of the northwestern part of the State, and who can estimate the moral power thus gained to the enemy and lost to ourselves? The commissary department here is in a suffering condition, and will continue so, unless the estimates are complied with. All the cadets you can spare from Richmond are needed here.

The enemy are in possession of the Relay House, and permit no freight cars to come west. Personal baggage is searched. At Grafton the cars have been broken open by the Republicans, upon the suspicion that, they contained arms. I dispatched a special messenger this evening to Baltimore, for the purpose of having the arms which Virginia furnished Maryland returned to us, and I trust that the scheme will be so carried out as to elude the vigilance of the enemy.

The pressure of office business here is so great as to induce me to retain Maj. T. L. Preston, of the Virginia Military Institute.

Mr. Burkhart, who is in charge of the rifle-factory, reports that he can finish fifteen hundred rifle-muskets in thirty days. I have, in obedience to the orders of Governor Letcher, directed the rifle-factory machinery to be removed immediately after that of the musket factory. My object {p.815} is to keep the former factory working as long as practicable without interfering with its rapid removal.

An unarmed company, in Harrison County, has offered its services, and I design arming it at Grafton. With prudent management I hope to assemble a number of companies at that post from the northwest, and for this purpose I have been corresponding with reliable gentlemen in various parts of that section of the State. Major Boykin was here yesterday on his way to Grafton, where I hope he will not long remain without a command.

I would respectfully recommend that the money for which estimates have been made by the quartermaster and commissary be turned over to them at once, and, if practicable, that it be deposited in a Winchester or Charlestown bank. They have been forced to use their private credit, that of the State being insufficient.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond Va., May 8, 1861.

GEORGE MASON, Esq., Spring Bank, Alexandria, Va.:

SIR: I am instructed by Major-General Lee to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of May 5, respecting the defenseless condition of your neighborhood. General Lee is not insensible to the dangers to which your own and other unguarded neighborhoods in the State are exposed, and no one laments more deeply than he does that the available resources of the State do not enable him to give such efficient protection as he desires to every portion of the Commonwealth. He has instructed the commanding officers that every neighborhood shall be protected, as far as possible, by the troops stationed in it; but the limited resources of the State and her pressing exigencies render it necessary that the people in each locality should take such measures as are in their power to guard against marauding parties and do what they can for their own protection. The formation of home guards, arming and drilling them, and, by concerted signals, to collect the guards of adjacent neighborhoods in time of danger, to resist the sudden attack of small marauding bands of the enemy, are among the means of defense adopted by the inhabitants of the country bordering on Chesapeake Bay and the lower rivers, and are recommended for the consideration and adoption of yourself and your neighbors. He cannot but hope, if war is to be waged against us, that reason and the opinion of mankind will at least induce our enemies to conduct it in accordance with the rules that prevail among civilized nations.

I am, &c.,

JNO. A. WASHINGTON, Aide, &c.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 8, 1861.

Col. WILLIAM B. TALIAFERRO, Comdg., &c., Gloucester Point, Gloucester Court-House, Va.:

COLONEL: In reply to your letter of the 6th instant, asking instructions as to the course to be pursued in the event of an attempt on the {p.816} part of the enemy to pass the battery at Gloucester Point, you are directed, on the approach of a vessel of the enemy, and when she shall have gotten within range, to fire a shot across her bows. Should this not deter her from proceeding on you will fire one over her; and if she still persist, you will fire into her. Should the fire be returned, you will capture, her, if possible. Similar orders have been issued to the naval officer commanding battery.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 8, 1861.

Brig. Gen. D. RUGGLES, Commanding, Fredericksburg, Va:

GENERAL: I am instructed by Major-General Lee to acknowledge the receipt of communications from Maj. T. H. Williamson, engineer, Virginia Army; Lieut. H. II. Lewis, Virginia Navy, and W. H. Kerr, brigade inspector Virginia volunteers, in relation to fortifying Aquia Creek.* The general commanding desires me to say that the object in view is the defense of the avenues of approach to the terminus of the railway, rather than the protection of the few vessels at Aquia Creek; that the instructions given by him with reference to this matter were based up on the report of Captain Lynch, Virginia Navy. You will therefore, being on the spot and in possession of the facts requisite to a proper disposition of the works and the troops under your command, exercise your judgement, in connection with that of Captain Lynch, with reference to the defense of the avenue of approach to the terminus of the railroad and the general protection of that country.

The importance of erecting batteries at Mathias Point is apparent; but from the report of Captain Lynch, which represents the necessity of supporting such a movement by a larger force than you had at your disposal, it was considered advisable to employ the guns originally intended for that point in the defense of the approaches to Fredericksburg by rail or river.

Very respectfully,

J. M. BROOKE.

* See Williamson and Lewis to Ruggles, April 24, p. 778.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 8, 1861.

Col. A. G. BLANCHARD, C. S. A.:

COLONEL: I have been directed by the governor of Virginia to take charge of the troops of the Confederate States until otherwise directed by the President. I desire your regiment to repair to Norfolk and report for duty to General Gwynn.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 12.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 8, 1861.

Col. John B. Magruder, of the Provisional Army of Virginia, is assigned to the command of the Virginia forces in and about this city. He will execute the duties assigned to his predecessor by General Orders, No. 3, current series. Colonel Magruder will select from his command a suitable officer to perform the duties of assistant adjutant-general.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, Va., May 8, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT:

SIR: In accordance with orders received from the general-in-chief, to post at Manassas Junction sufficient force to defend that point against any attack likely to be made against it by troops from Washington, I immediately ordered the Powhatan troop of cavalry to march from this place this morning, to join Capt. J. S. Green’s company, now at Amissville, Rappahannock County, and to proceed together to Manassas Junction, where there are two (raw, undrilled, ununiformed, and armed with the altered musket) Irish companies, lately sent out from Alexandria, and which I had ordered to be held and drilled at Manassas Junction. We will endeavor to use these companies. I have also ordered one section (two pieces) of Captain Kemper’s artillery, (the only part of his battery at all available as foot artillery, and that rendered available by doubling upon the two pieces the horses and ammunition he had for the four pieces), which I shall also take along to the same point. The Powhatan troop of cavalry and the section of artillery are absolutely all of the force at all available at this time at this place. I have telegraphed back to Charlottesville for two companies of riflemen to be dispatched to this point, and learn from Lieutenant-Colonel Fry that I will get but one, and that not until this evening.

Looking to Lynchburg, I learn that the armed companies of that place are now in Richmond, under Colonel Garland. If so, I trust, sir, they will be immediately dispatched to the command at Manassas.

We have no ammunition of any kind, except the limited supply sent forward to Alexandria. I shall gather in as fast as possible the armed companies that have not been mustered into the service throughout my department (if any there be besides those referred to), and concentrate them here at Manassas and Alexandria, as occasion may require.

From three to five thousand muskets or rifles should be immediately forwarded to this point for the use of this command; thence to be drawn for arming companies, as mustered into service. Some place will be provided as a magazine at this point. The powder, balls, munitions, equipments, and all ammunition whatsoever required for at least five thousand men, should be immediately prepared and forwarded to this place.

The city of Alexandria situated as it is, in the re-entering curve of the river opposite to Washington, on the convex side of that carve, is a point difficult to hold, in case the enemy shall have any designs upon it in the present weak condition of our forces. The enemy, by proceeding below, to Fort Washington or Mount Vernon, may turn the position, take it in the rear, and cut off its communication, and so by advancing {p.818} over the bridges from above the enemy may, by short lines, turn and get in the rear of that place. In order to prevent such a disaster there should be, obviously, outside of and behind Alexandria, a force sufficient to throw out outpost guards, radiating upon the possible lines of advance of the enemy, to protect that place in the rear, and thus to support and cover the little force now held in Alexandria, and prevent its capture or annihilation. With such an arrangement the force in Alexandria could return, without danger of being surprised, and find support in falling back upon the force in its rear. But I have absolutely nothing at present out of which to constitute such a supporting force in rear of Alexandria. As soon as I can collect the means, or you shall send them to me, I shall endeavor to make the best use of them to this end.

Very respectfully, your obedient,

PHILIP ST. GEO. COCKE, Brigadier-General, Commanding Potomac Department.

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HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, May 8, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT:

Your order of May 7, this moment received, stating that “The general in command is in want of information from you as to the strength and organization of your command, and begs that you will supply him with it at the earliest possible moment. The return due on the 1st instant by General Orders, No. 4, has not been received. The general desires particularly to know with what force you can take the field, provided any movement is made against you from Washington; how it would be, composed, officered, and what, service could be counted on from it.” I have to say in reply that, coming to this command with “naked bands” and in my plantation dress, arriving in Alexandria on the morning of the 22d of April, I have had everything to do towards organization, with extremely limited means of accomplishing anything. It has been entirely impracticable, in consequence of the want of my proper staff, until very recently, to initiate the means of obtaining the regular, formal, and full company returns and other returns which would show the strength and organization of the weak, unorganized, and widely-scattered force under my command.

The assistant adjutant-general, since his appointment and entrance upon duty, has taken the most active steps to accomplish the objects desired by the commanding general. Those steps will be persevered in. Such partial returns as I have been able to obtain from time to time from captains, both in regard to number of men, arms, and ammunition, and general equipment, have been forwarded to the headquarters at Richmond, and will be found on file there.

The assistant adjutant-general, Jones, has this morning left me, by my order, under the pressing emergency of sending the only experienced officer of the army at my command to march with the Powhatan troop this moment en route for Manassas Junction, to assist in collecting, establishing, and organizing at that point the force that I may be able to command, to carry into effect the order of the general-in-chief, received yesterday, to occupy and hold that point against any probable attack of the enemy. I propose to follow myself to-morrow with such other forces as I can gather, going “by rail” to the same point, and {p.819} thus to effect a contemporaneous arrival at Manassas Junction. This necessary absence of the assistant adjutant-general from these headquarters, together with the yet unorganized state of the general staff and the inexperience of many of the captains of many of the companies, will yet cause some delay in making regular army returns.

I beg, however, that the general-in-chief will have collated from my dispatches and reports from the beginning the information therein imparted in this connection, and which may thus furnish him with an approximate estimate and exhibit at least of the available forces heretofore and now at my command.

In order to facilitate the accomplishment of this object, I win here briefly indicate from the best sources I possess the present character and disposition of what available force I have. (See statement inclosed.)

Very respectfully,

PHILIP ST. GEO: COCKE, Brigadier-General, Commanding Potomac Department.

[Inclosure.]

HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, May 8, 1861.

Company E, Sixth Battalion, Capt. S. H. Devaughn, 100 men in all, 50 muskets, .58 caliber; no ammunition.

Company H, Sixth Battalion, Capt. M. Marye, 69 men in all, 50 muskets, .58 caliber; no ammunition; in Alexandria now.

Company G, Sixth Battalion, Lieut. A. Herbert, 88 men in all, 54 muskets, .69 caliber; no ammunition; in Alexandria now.

Company, Fairfax Rifles, W. H. Dulany, captain, 51 men armed, and have 940 cartridges; Fairfax Station.

Company, Washington Volunteers, Captain Sherman, 113 men, unarmed and ununiformed; no ammunition; here.

Company, Richardson Guards, Capt. J. Welsh, 80 men, 1,000 caps and cartridges and equipments; Madison Court-House.

Company, Home Guards, J. Latouche, 100 men, flint-lock muskets, Caliber .69; in Alexandria; no equipments or ammunition.

Two companies, Irish, now at Manassas Junction, with altered muskets; no equipments or ammunition.

Company, Captain Porter, now here., 74 men, unarmed and unequipped; no ammunition.

Company, artillery, Capt. Del. Kemper, 86 men, 4 brass 6-pounders, 35 sabers, 67 rounds fixed ammunition, and 25 loose ball; now here; part leave to-morrow for Manassas.

Company, Powell’s troop of cavalry, in Alexandria, 53 men.

Company, J. Shac Green, troop of cavalry, in Amissville, 64 men; will be at Manassas to-morrow.

Company, M. Dulany Ball, troop of cavalry, equipped; now in Alexandria.

Company, W. H. Payne, troop of cavalry; now in Warrenton, holding public property.

Company, John F. Lay, troop of cavalry; left for Manassas Junction to-day; well equipped with ammunition; several have no uniform or pistols.

Two companies in Charlottesville not yet reported.

PHILIP ST. GEO. COCKE, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS, Fredericksburg, Va., May 8, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Volunteer Forces, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have, the honor to report, for the information of the commanding general, that I located a battery at the Aquia Creek Railroad Landing this morning, and placed it under the charge of Maj. T. H. Williamson, Engineers, for completion.

In the absence of Captain Lynch, of the Navy, for whom I have dispatched a messenger, I have directed Captain Thorburn to put the guns in position and make the necessary preparation for service. It is my expectation that the battery will be in a measure completed within forty-eight hours. Measures will be taken to give the requisite protection.

I respectfully recommend that a battery of four 32-pounders be established on the Rappahannock River, at Bristol Mines or Tappahannock, with as little delay as is practicable.

I transmit a memorandum of a statement made yesterday by Messrs. John T. Washington and John H. Stuart, of King George County, Virginia. Measures were taken immediately by dispatching mounted men to intercept and recover the slaves supposed to have escaped, but thus far without satisfactory results.

Repeated applications have been made to me from counties bordering on the Rappahannock on both sides, along the Northern Neck, for instructions preliminary to enrollment as volunteers, from the fact, doubtlessly, that they were within my original jurisdiction. I am instructed by General Cocke to embrace my original limits until further orders.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL RUGGLES, Brigadier-General Volunteers, Commanding Forces.

[Inclosure.]

HEADQUARTERS, Fredericksburg, Va., May 7, 1861-4 p. m.

Statement of Mr. John T. Washington, of Hampstead P. O., King George County, Virginia.

That he was one of the patrol on last night, 6th instant, starting on duty about 10 p. m., with some six or seven others, and that upon his return home the following morning, about sunrise, he discovered that five of his negro men had packed up their clothing and absconded, and, from some tracks he discovered, thinks they moved in the direction of Fredericksburg.

Upon making inquiries he found that Mr. John Hill Stuart had missed two of his negro men, Dr. A. B. Hooe, two of his, Mr. Custis Grymes two of his, Mr. H. M. Tennent two of his, Mr. Quisenberry one of his, Mr. John H. Washington two of his, and Mrs. Virginia Washington two of hers.

The above-named persons were all whom he had an opportunity of hearing from, and as they all had missed some of their negroes, he infers that his neighbors generally have suffered.

Mr. Washington also stated that the patrol visited seven estates upon the night of the 6th instant, and that upon six of the estates they saw but one negro man each and upon the other but two negro men.

JOHN T. WASHINGTON. JOHN H. STUART.

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GLOUCESTER POINT, VA., May 8, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commander-in-Chief:

SIR: I have the honor to report that I assumed command at this post at 7 o’clock yesterday evening. I hastened to assume the command from the fact that I learned, on my way from Richmond, that the howitzer battery under Lieutenant Brown, acting under the orders of Captain Whittle, of the Virginia Navy, had resisted the approach of the steamer Yankee and driven her back, after the firing of some ten or twelve rounds on either side. I immediately ordered out the volunteer forces of the county, amounting to some two hundred and fifty men, to re-enforce the battery and prevent a landing of the enemy in boats. These troops had not been mustered into the service of the State, and no force beyond a small guard had been stationed at this place. Major Page, mustering officer, will muster in three, companies to-day. I have now subsistence for four hundred men for thirty days, and will erect huts for the troops this evening. I have to urge that you will order to this point some effective sea-coast guns, for the small battery of 6-pounder guns now here will prove of small consequence in resisting an attack upon this place by a naval force of much importance.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. B. TALIAFERRO, Colonel, Commanding.

[Indorsements.]

This letter came to me unsealed. I presumed that I might read it. I know not on what authority Colonel Taliaferro says that the firing at Gloucester Point was authorized by me. This is an entire mistake.

Your obedient servant,

WM. C. WHITTLE, Captain, Virginia Navy.

Maj. Gen. LEE, Commander-in-Chief, &c., Richmond, Va.

Six 9-inch guns are now on York River, and three 32-pounders win be sent in a day or two. The firing by the howitzer battery was not directed by Captain Whittle.

S. BARRON, Captain, Virginia Navy.

The firing was not directed by Captain Whittle. The major-general has expressed, through me, his disapproval of the firing at such a distance.

S. BARRON.

Six 9-inch guns now at the river. There will be three 32-pounders for West Point to-day or to-morrow.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 9, 1861.

Col. P. ST. GEORGE COCKE, Commanding Potomac Division:

COLONEL: I am instructed by Major-General Lee to inform you that Colonel Preston and Colonel Garland, with eleven companies under their command, have been ordered to report to you at Culpeper. Three {p.822} thousand flint-lock muskets and sixty thousand rounds of cartridges have been ordered to be sent.

Very respectfully, &c.,

JNO. M. BROOKE, Virginia Navy, Acting Aide-de-Camp.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA. FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 9, 1861.

Col. JUBAL A. EARLY, Commanding, &c., Lynchburg, Va.:

COLONEL: Col. R. C. W. Radford, Virginia volunteers has been directed to report to you for duty. You will assign him to the command of the troops from the counties of Campbell, Bedford, Roanoke, Botetourt, and Craig (which you were directed to keep united and distinct from those of the other counties by letter of 6th instant), and ,direct him to proceed with them as soon as possible, and report to the commanding officer of the troops between Culpeper Court-House and Alexandria or on that line,

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 9, 1861.

Col. T. J. JACKSON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

COLONEL: I have received your letter of the 6th instant, and am gratified at the progress you have made in the organization of your command. I hope some of the field officers directed to report to you will have arrived and-, entered on their duties. In your preparation for the defense of your position it is considered advisable not to intrude upon the soil of Maryland, unless compelled by the necessities of war. The aid of its citizens might be obtained in that quarter. I regret I have no engineer of experience to send you. You will have to rely upon your judgment and the aid of the officers with you. I have directed that four 6-pounder guns be forwarded to you as soon as possible, and two 12-pounder howitzers, with a supply of ammunition and equipment for firing, will be sent to you at once. There are no caissons. Horses, wagons, and harness will be procured near you by an agent of the quartermaster’s department, sent for the purpose.

Captain Pendleton’s company of artillery from Lexington will Join you as soon as possible, with such field pieces as it has. Flour and provisions for use of the troops must be secured. In other respects it is not designed to embarrass the legitimate commerce of our citizens.

I have directed that one thousand muskets, obtained from North. Carolina, be sent to you, to aid in arming your command and to respond to requisitions that may be made upon you by Colonel Porterfield. Your requisitions upon the staff department at headquarters, as far as possible, will be filled.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 9, 1861.

Maj. WILLIAM E. JONES, Virginia Volunteers, Abingdon, Va.:

MAJOR: I have the honor to inform you that you have been appointed major in the Virginia volunteers. Under the authority of the governor, by his proclamation of the 3d instant, you are directed to call out and muster into the service of the State volunteer companies from the counties of Washington, Russell, Scott, and Lee, to rendezvous at Abingdon. The whole number of companies so called into service must not exceed two mounted companies and eight companies of infantry and riflemen. You will proceed to organize them into a regiment, and make arrangements for their instruction, subsistence, &C. You will report, as soon as possible, their number, condition of arms, &c., and hold them in readiness for prompt movement. To aid in their armament five hundred of the best arms for issue will be sent to you, which you will distribute, at your discretion, taking the proper receipt, &c., from each captain for the security of the State.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, Va., May 9, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT:

I send herewith a copy of the orders under which I assumed command of officers of all grades on the line of the Potomac, along the entire boundary of the State as marked by said river, holding commission as brigadier-general of volunteers, by authority of the governor and council, and confirmed by the Convention.

Very respectfully, your most obedient,

PHILIP ST. GEO. COCKE, Brigadier-General, Commanding Potomac Department.

[Inclosure.]

RICHMOND, VA., April 21, 1861.

The council of state, in absence of the governor, directs that officers of all grades on the line of the Potomac shall obey the orders of General P. St. George Cocke, who has been assigned by the governor to the command of that section of the military operations of the State bounded by said river.

By order of the council of state:

JOHN J. ALLEN, President of the Council.

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DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, May 9, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Commander Virginia Forces:

GENERAL: If this place is attacked, we may expect the enemy to make a free use of rifled cannon, in addition to field artillery, and possibly larger caliber.

The object of this letter is to state that Colonel Thomas, adjutant general of Maryland, has placed at my disposal the ordnance from the Virginia navy-yard en route for Baltimore via this place, and to request that you will, should it meet with your approbation, send a competent ordnance officer, with sufficient force and means, to mount such pieces as I may designate.

I am, general, your most obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Colonel Virginia Volunteers, Commanding Division.

P. S.-There are about 2,200 Federal troops at the Relay House, others beyond Baltimore, and about 4,000 near Chambersburg, Pa. I have occupied the Maryland Heights with the Kentuckians and one company of infantry from Augusta County, making about 500 in all.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Col. P. ST. GEORGE COCKE, Virginia Volunteers, Culpeper Court-House, Va.

COLONEL: It is very important that the volunteer troops be organized and instructed as rapidly as possible. I know you are doing all in your power towards that object. It is desired that you attach to the battalions or regiments, as formed, as soon as possible, the field officers who have been or may be directed to report to you from the same region with the companies, place them at such point or points as you think best, with capable instructors, and press forward their instruction and equipment. The regiments under Colonels Garland and Preston were designed for Manassas Junction. You are requested to send them there, and as company and field officers are available which might properly be assigned to them, to forward them to the respective regiments. That the troops may be prepared for field service, it is desirable that they be removed from the towns and placed in camp, where their instruction may be uninterrupted and rigid discipline established. Officers and men will sooner become familiar with the necessities of service, and make their preparations accordingly. It is impossible at this time to furnish tents, but unoccupied buildings might possibly be obtained or temporary plank huts established. I beg you will adopt the best plan in your power to prepare the men for hard, effective service.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Col. T. J. JACKSON, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 7th instant, by Major Massie, has been received. Orders have been given to fill your requisition for arms, ammunition, and accouterments as far as possible. In addition to the guns that you were advised yesterday would be sent to you, I have directed two 32-pounders, with navy carriages, and a supply of ammunition, &c., to be forwarded to you. They will be in charge of Lieutenant Fauntleroy, {p.825} roy, {p.825} of the Navy, who is ordered to report to you, and I hope will be useful in defending your post.

Your intention to, fortify the heights of Maryland may interrupt our friendly arrangements with that State, and we have no right to intrude on her soil, unless, under pressing necessity, for defense. I had hoped that her own citizens would have relieved us of that question, and you must endeavor to give to the course you may find it necessary to pursue the appearance of its being the act of her citizens. At all events, do not move until actually necessary and under stern necessity.

I have directed the companies ordered to rendezvous at Staunton to be sent to you as soon as mustered into the service, and I hope you will receive a large accession of troops under the authority extended to you. Several officers of experience have been sent to you, and I shall endeavor to send some cadets. I know, from the spirit with which you are animated, that you will leave nothing undone to insure the defense of your post and the security of your command. You will not neglect, therefore, the instruction of the troops, who ought to be constantly practicing their military exercises and prepared in every way for hard service. Every rifle that you can finish will be of advantage, but it will be necessary to send off that machinery as soon as the musket factory is removed. I have directed the Quartermaster and Commissary Departments to send funds, if practicable, to the assistant quartermaster and commissary at your post.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Col. T. J. JACKSON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of May 9th has just been received. The guns you refer to, intended for Maryland, have, I understand, been stopped by the governor. I wrote you to-day that two 32-pounders had been ordered to you. I fear you may have been premature in occupying the heights of Maryland with so strong a force near you. The true policy is to act on the defensive, and not invite an attack. If not too late, you might withdraw until the proper time. I have already suggested to you the probability of the use of the canal as a means of carrying ordnance and munitions from Washington to use against you. In that event it would be well to cut the supply dams to prevent its use. Ten cadets have been ordered to report to you, in addition to the ten now there.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS, RICHMOND, VA., May 10, 1861.

To the COMMANDING OFFICER, Lynchburg, Va.:

By dispatch of this date I have directed a detachment of one thousand troops, either of Confederate State troops or Virginia volunteers, {p.826} to be sent to report to Colonel Jackson at Harper’s Ferry. I desire two regiments more, if efficient men can be obtained, to be sent to the same point as soon as practicable. Report what troops will have been sent in compliance with these orders, composition, arms, &c., and under what officers. The detachment may be composed of Virginia or Confederate State troops, as you may deem best for the occasion.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Lieut. Col. JOHN ECHOLS, Virginia Volunteers, Staunton, Va.:

COLONEL: It is desired that you send the troops you were directed to muster into the service of the State at Staunton to Harper’s Ferry, by companies, as fast as mustered in, with their descriptive list, to Colonel Jackson, without waiting to organize them into regiments, with such arms as they may have. You will report the companies sent, their number, condition of arms, &c., to these headquarters.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Col. GEO. H. TERRETT, Provisional Army of Virginia, Alexandria, Va..

COLONEL: In forwarding Special. Orders, No. 39, I take occasion to say that, while pursuing a strictly defensive policy, it is necessary that you should be vigilant, have your troops at or near points where they may be needed, and urge forward their instruction and preparation with all the means in your power. For this purpose it will be necessary to remove them from the towns, if possible, and establish them in camps, where their constant instruction and discipline can be attended to. They will the sooner become familiar with the necessities of service, and be better prepared for its hardships. It will be impossible to furnish tents at this time, but it is hoped that unoccupied buildings or temporary plank huts might be obtained where needed. At Manassas Junction, where it will be necessary to establish a portion of your command to secure the road to Harper’s Ferry, some preparation of this sort will be needed. Colonel Garland’s and Colonel Preston’s battalions (the first consisting of four and the second of seven companies) have been ordered to that point, to report to you. These battalions will be increased to regiments as companies from their districts, arrive, which will be forwarded to you by Colonel Cocke. You will give them the necessary orders and add such re-enforcements as you think proper. The troops near Alexandria will be kept in readiness to move whenever necessary, will afford such protection to the town and neighborhood as their number will permit, And you will endeavor to take measures to allay unnecessary excitement, and not to provoke aggression.

An early report of the condition and resources of your command is desired. Requisitions upon the staff departments here will be filled as far as possible, and, for articles admitting of no delay you are authorized to call on Colonel Cocke.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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GENERAL ORDERS, NO. 10.

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond Va., May 10, 1861.

The following telegraphic dispatch has this day been received, and is published for the information of all concerned:

Officers of the Confederate States Army now serving in Virginia will accordingly report (by letter) to the adjutant-general of the Virginia forces their present stations, the nature of the orders under which they are acting, and, if in command of troops, their numbers and organization.

By command of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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GRAFTON, VA., May 10, 1861.

General R. E. LEE:

SIR: Being pressed for time and deeming it necessary to communicate with you at once, I wrote from this point on the 7th instant, giving my views hastily as regards the best policy to be pursued in order to carry out my instructions. I am fully confirmed in the opinions there given, as I have since had an opportunity of posting myself by visiting some of the adjacent counties. The feeling in nearly all of our counties is very bitter, and nothing is left undone by the adherents of the old Union to discourage those who are disposed to enlist in the service of the State. I find that organizations exist in most of the counties pledged to the support of what they term the Union. We have various rumors about forces being sent from Ohio and Pennsylvania for the purpose of holding the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad at Grafton. I have no doubt from the confidence and bearing of the Union men in and around here that they are expecting aid from some quarter.

While I deem it absolutely necessary for us to hold this point immediately, I think it impracticable to undertake it with the very small force which could be gotten here soon.

I see no other alternative than to send forces from the east for the present. This section is verging on a state of actual rebellion, and many men who are true and loyal to the State are afraid to leave their families among men who recognize as a leader John S. Carlile, who openly proclaims that the laws of the State should not be recognized.

If forces are sent, I think we should have at least one battery. I think five hundred men will be sufficient to quell any disturbance which might arise if a smaller force were sent.

As regards the necessity of a force at Parkersburg, I am clearly of opinion that troops should be assembled there immediately. I most respectfully commend to your consideration the name of Judge W. L. Jackson, formerly second auditor and afterwards lieutenant-governor of the State, as a suitable person to appoint to the command at that point. Judge Jackson is a gentleman of very great personal popularity, not only with his own party, but with those who are diametrically opposed to him politically, and I am satisfied could exert more influence towards conciliating than any other gentleman who could be appointed. I consider it unnecessary to say more of the judge, as he is known throughout the State to be devoted to the interest of Virginia, and will stand by her to the last extremity. I have recently had a conversation with him, and he will accept the command if tendered him.

I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant,

FRANCIS M. BOYKIN, JR., Major, Virginia Volunteers.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 39.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

I. To facilitate the organization and instruction of the troops, Col. D. Ruggles, of the Provisional Army of Virginia, will take command of those called into service from the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, King George, Westmoreland, and take measures for the security of those counties, and those upon the Rappahannock below Fredericksburg.

...

IV. Col. T. J. Jackson, Virginia volunteers, will command the troops at Harper’s Ferry, those called from the counties to rendezvous at that place and those directed to rendezvous at Staunton.

...

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Col. DANIEL RUGGLES, Provisional Army of Virginia, Fredericksburg, Va.:

COLONEL: In carrying into effect Special Orders, No. 39, you are desired to use, all the means in your power to advance the instruction and discipline of your command. For this purpose you will place the troops at or near points where they will probably be needed, and it is hoped, as it will be impossible to furnish tents at present, that you may procure buildings, or erect huts or plank sheds, for their protection, which will enable you to remove them from the towns, accustom them to the necessities of service, and enable them to prepare for it. You must establish rigid discipline, and endeavor to place with each command competent officers as instructors, though they may be of inferior rank to the respective commanders. I know that officers and men are inspired {p.829} with proper zeal, and you will have only to lead and direct it. As regards the water defenses, you are desired to consult freely with the naval officers charged with that subject, and give them all the aid in your power. Your operations will be strictly defensive.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

Lieut. Col. D. A. LANGHORNE, Virginia Volunteers, Lynchburg, Va.:

SIR: The number of troops from Virginia now assembling at Lynchburg may become so large as to render it inconvenient for you to provide for them. You are therefore authorized to order to report to Colonel Cocke, at Culpeper Court-House, such companies from the counties of Campbell, Bedford, Roanoke, Botetourt, and Craig as may be organized and able to move, and to this city such from the remaining counties of your district as are similarly situated. Report these instructions to Colonel Early on his arrival.

I am, sir, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS CABELL’S BATTERY, Gloucester Point, May 10 [?], 1861-9.30 a. m.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER:

SIR: Yesterday, about 1 o’clock p. m., an armed steamer approached our battery, coming within the range of two or three miles. We sprang to our guns, and were ready for action as soon as it was manifest that the steamer was coming up the river. We all expected an attack, but she turned and proceeded down the river, and dropped anchor near its mouth. Another ship or steamer was also in the distance. During the night there was a vigilant lookout. This morning four ships or steamers passed beyond the first steamer, proceeding rapidly from north to south. About 8 o’clock this morning the attacking steamer weighed anchor and left the river. You can draw your own conclusions as well as I can of the purpose of the enemy.

I regard this point as next in importance to Fortress Monroe. I hope I may say that I am acquainted at least with the commercial wants of the State. It is, in my opinion, invaluable, both for military defense and the commercial necessities of the State. Let its importance not be underrated. This point properly secured, and no effectual blockade can continue; no ships can pass up York River; no attack can be made on Richmond, except by long land marches. If you could see the place, you would be satisfied of its great importance. To allow it to be lost would be a fatal error. The force here, consisting entirely of volunteers, are prepared to defend it to the last extremity. They are perfectly aware of the strangeness and peril of their situation, but though “there is plenty of danger, there is no fear.” But if I am correct in regard to the importance of retaining this position, though the necessities of the State would not permit more men to be sent for the support of the few here, yet that force should be promptly sent for the protection of the present and future fortifications here. Blind as {p.830} Lincoln and Cabinet appear to be, they must see the importance of taking this place. A land attack by a large force would probably do this. We would dispute every inch of ground with them; but however valiant our defense, it would not repay the loss of this place. I believe it can be easily defended from a land attack. Access from our rear is over ground perfectly level, and mostly open. The enemy must march through a space not over a mile or mile and a half wide. Defend this by a rude fort of logs even, and it would greatly contribute to our defense. It will require a much larger force to do this. But the plateau in the rear of this is the most beautiful as well as extensive field for drill I have ever seen. A brigade could well maneuver upon it. Send down, therefore, some of your raw troops of infantry, and let a school of instruction be placed here.

The Federal troops may land below, but they must pass through the level interval or over Sarah’s Creek. They cannot pass Sarah’s Creek without boats, and its defense is very easy. I have not time to say more.

Please submit this to General Lee and the governor and council. Let the public not hear of it till the plan is executed.

Excuse haste and the excitement of a camp life, and the errors of composition produced by constant interruptions and camp tables.

Respectfully, yours,

H. C. CABELL, Captain, &c.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 11, 1861.

Maj. F. M. BOYKIN, JR., Grafton, Va.:

MAJOR: Your letter of the 7th has just been received, and I regret to learn that the prospect of assembling the Virginia forces at Grafton is so unfavorable. You must persevere, however, and call out companies from the well-affected counties, and march them to Grafton, or such other point in that vicinity as you may select. Four hundred rifles and some ammunition have been ordered from Staunton to Major Goff, Virginia Volunteers, at Beverly, Randolph County, who has been directed to communicate their arrival to Colonel Porterfield, and take his directions as to their disposition. You can by this means arm certain companies and prepare them for service, preparatory to receiving those from Harper’s Ferry. I do not think it prudent to order companies from other parts of the State to Grafton, as it might irritate, instead of conciliating the population of that region. On Colonel Porterfield’s arrival at Grafton communicate this letter to him.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

P. S.-Major Goff has been directed to assemble some troops in his vicinity for the protection of the arms and their safe conveyance to the point required.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 11, 1861.

B. M. JONES, Esq., Danville, Va. :

SIR: I am instructed by Major-General Lee to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of May 9, respecting the construction of a railroad {p.831} from Keysville, on the Richmond and Danville Road, to Clarksville, on the Roanoke, whereby an additional railroad connection would be had between Richmond and States to the south of Virginia. As a military road at this time, General Lee thinks it would be both desirable and important to have the road which you propose constructed, as it would afford not only an additional means of communication between Richmond and the South, but, in the event of obstruction on one road, the other might be kept open for travel and transportation. Contingencies might occur to render this a matter of the highest importance, and he would therefore be pleased to see the road made. But while he regards it as desirable, he thinks, from the information he has of the financial condition of the State, it would not be proper just now to divert the money required for the work from other objects.

I am, &c.,

JNO. A. WASHINGTON, Aide to General Lee.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 11, 1861.

Col. Wm. B. TALIAFERRO, Commanding, &c., Gloucester Point, Va.:

It is very important that the battery at Gloucester Point be pushed forward as fast as possible. All the labor necessary for its speedy completion must be devoted to it, and every facility in your power afforded to the engineer engaged in its construction.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, S. C. VOLS., C. S. ARMY, Richmond, Va., May 11, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT , Adjutant-General Virginia Forces, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: In pursuance of Orders, No. 13, headquarters Virginia Forces, but recently called to my attention, I have the honor to report that, as brigadier-general, C. S. Army, Provisional Forces, I am in command of two regiments of South Carolina volunteers, numbering, in the aggregate, upwards of fifteen hundred. Camp at present near the reservoir. I was ordered by the governor of South Carolina to report to Governor Letcher, who directed me to report to Major-General Lee.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

M. L. BONHAM, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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MANASSAS JUNCTION, VA., May 11, 1861.

Col. DANIEL RUGGLES, Commanding at Fredericksburg, Va.:

SIR: Being about to gather troops at this point, and to hold it strongly, it would seem necessary that prompt measures should be taken to bring about a close connection and strategic co-operation between your movements {p.832} and my own. My general line of operations is very much in the direction of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad while yours would be, in the present attitude of the enemy, through Aquia Creek to Dumfries and Occoquan. Our lines would thus converge upon Alexandria and the enemy’s position beyond. The line of the Potomac to the mouth of the Aquia, flanking your line, as indicated, as well as mine, at least as far back as this point, it is exceedingly important that we should have strong outposts at Aquia, Dumfries, and Occoquan, at either of which places the enemy could enter and land by boats, and take me in flank and your own position in front. By establishing a strong force at these points indicated, we shall prevent surprise, hold the enemy in check along the Potomac, which flanks this line of operations from here to Alexandria, while we shall, at the same time, hold ourselves in position by a connected chain of posts for reciprocal support and intelligence and for prompt cooperation. In order to effect the objects indicated in general terms above, you will place at Dumfries a detachment, consisting, if practicable, or as soon as it may be practicable, Of at least one battalion of infantry (rifles would be best), one section (two guns) of rifled cannon, Walkers battery, and a troop or two of cavalry, while a similar force should be placed at Occoquan as soon as it may be practicable to do so.

I am well aware of the difficulties you may have in fulfilling literally these commands in this incipient stage of organization of your force. I must, therefore, trust to your discipline to do whatever may be practicable for the present, to be followed up as future circumstances may allow. The troops from Prince William, now at Dumfries and Occoquan, and any other troops that may be there, will remain at those posts, respectively, and be strengthened as circumstances will allow to do so, as above indicated. This post will be promptly put in connection with Occoquan by outposts, pickets, vedettes, and patrols, and it would be exceedingly desirable to establish a similar unbroken chain of communication between Occoquan, Dumfries, Aquia, and Fredericksburg.

Very truly, &c.,

PHILIP ST. GEO. COCKE.

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DIVISION HDQRS., Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 11, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE:

GENERAL: The precautions mentioned in your letter of the 6th instant have been under consideration for some time, and some of them have been taken; others are progressing as rapidly as the circumstances admit of. Arrangements are complete for a desperate defense at Point of Rocks. I have troops also at Berlin, Shepherdstown, and Martinsburg. Marylanders, with artillery, are opposite Shepherdstown, and have threatened us there to such an extent as to induce the officer stationed there to call on me for artillery; and though I can poorly spare it, yet, under the circumstances, I must comply. Previous to receiving your letter I had authorized the payment of $5 for the best arms, and graded pieces below that. My report for yesterday* will show the strength of the command. I can get enough volunteers from the counties named to swell the force to probably four thousand five hundred; but they are without arms, accouterments, and ammunition. Please send me five thousand good muskets and rifles, with complete equipments. {p.833} Also full equipments for three hundred cavalry, and an additional light battery more than those called for in my last. Make this the depot for the northwest. Grafton should be occupied at once. Col. J. M. Bennett will deliver this to you, and give important information respecting the northwest, The quartermaster, Mr. John A. Harman, of this post, should not be removed, if it can possibly be avoided, Please have him appointed and retained, if practicable. I had difficulty in inducing him to remain; but, if the appointment be sent to him, I think he will continue here.

Please to forward the arms at once, and all troops and supplies destined for Harper’s Ferry. I respectfully request they may be sent at once. Have no fear of this place being surprised.

Your most obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding.

* Not found.

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GENERAL HEADQUARTERS, Adjutant-General’s Office, May 11, 1861.

Upon the occurrence, of any emergency, which in his judgment may require it, or upon the order of Major-General Lee, General-in-Chief, Maj. Benjamin S. Ewell, of the active volunteer force, is authorized to call out any portion of the militia of the line or the volunteers of the Sixty-eighth Regiment, James City, for the protection or defense of the county. He will please report to General Lee what number and description of additional arms may be necessary for the purpose.

By command:

WM. H. RICHARDSON, Adjutant-General.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 9.}

HEADQUARTERS, Fredericksburg, Va., May 11, 1861.

I. In conformity with instructions from the headquarters of Virginia forces, volunteer companies of infantry and riflemen will be received into the service of the State for the period of one year from April 25, 1861, from the counties of Richmond, Northumberland, and Lancaster, preparatory to instruction, at or near the court-houses of the respective counties, or such other points as may be designated; and also companies of volunteers, organized and armed as above specified, will be received in the counties of Essex and Middlesex for the same period of service, for instruction, in the vicinity of Tappahannock and Urbana. Companies of volunteer artillery and cavalry already organized, armed, and equipped according to law will be reported by their captains in person or by mail directly to these headquarters for special instructions.

II. The companies of volunteers presenting themselves are expressly enjoined to conform in every essential particular in their organization, armament, and equipment to the requirements stated in the instructions for mustering volunteers into service, from Inspector-General Baldwin, dated April 30, 1861, for which application may be made directly to the inspector-general of the State or to the inspector at these headquarters quarters. As companies are reported organized by their captains at these headquarters, or at such other points as may be designated, an {p.834} inspector will be directed at an appointed time to muster them into the service of the State.

III. The policy of the State, as clearly indicated by the proclamation of the governor and the ordinances of the Convention, is to rely mainly on the organized and disciplined volunteer forces, in conjunction with the Provisional Army of Virginia. The readiness with which the people of this department have responded to the call for volunteers induces the hope that, save upon the emergency of actual invasion, the militia will not be called out; but, should that contingency arise before precise instructions are, communicated, full reliance will be placed on the bold hearts and strong arms of a united people to make each house a citadel, and every rock and tree positions of defense, thus efficiently aiding the organized forces, by communicating by telegraph and concentrating by railway at the endangered point in such numbers as to sweep from our borders the insolent invaders. Called to command a border district of Virginia, now threatened with invasion and subjugation by a lawless tyranny, which, over a violated Constitution, would march to conquest and carnage, it is esteemed not less the post of honor than of danger. Brave and loyal men of that district which has given to freedom a Washington, Madison, Monroe, Lee, Mercer, and others, whom, both in camp and council, the world has recognized as among the noblest defenders of constitutional liberty, you are called upon to rally for the defense of your homes and firesides; your wives and children; the ashes of your mighty dead; the freedom purchased by your fathers’ blood, and the soil and sovereignty of your proud old Commonwealth. Give force and efficiency to your patriotic ardor by the aid of discipline and organization; substitute prudence and policy for passion, and by your devotion to liberty, regulated by law, vindicate before the nations your claim to exercise the inalienable right of self-government.

DANIEL RUGGLES, Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Virginia Forces.

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HEADQUARTERS, Gloucester Point, Va., May 11, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the condition of the defenses at this place has greatly improved since my last communication. Two heavy 9-inch guns have been placed in position at the water battery at the extremity of the point, and we have the means of preventing a landing from boats, as the work and the shore line are protected by the field guns of Captains Cabell and Brown’s batteries. Two additional 9-inch guns have been sent here this morning, and will be placed in battery with all dispatch.

I have directed the quartermaster to erect hats on the most economical plan, for the accommodation of the troops, which work is making much progress, and I hope to be at least able to protect the whole command from the weather by this evening.

Major Page has mustered into the service two companies of infantry, numbering one hundred and fifty-eight men, and one of artillery, numbering ninety men, which is the whole force yet mustered from the counties of King and Queen and Gloucester. Believing it necessary to concentrate as many men as possible here, on the evening of the 7th I ordered here a company of cavalry, and have retained them until this time. I have thought it advisable to direct Major Page to muster this {p.835} troop into service, as the character of the country to be defended renders it necessary to have the co-operation of a small cavalry force to act, as scouts and vedettes, the more particularly to give confidence to the people along the shores and creeks, who are apprehensive of forays. This muster has not yet been completed, and, should you regard this force as unnecessary, they can be discharged from service, with but small loss for their support during the limited time they have served.

I would respectfully suggest that a force be stationed at Yorktown and batteries erected there. I understand that Major Ewell is in command of a battalion on that side of the river, and that my command is limited to this. I have not had any official communication with him, and desire to be advised of the fact of the extent of his command. I would suggest that his headquarters be established at Yorktown, so that we could co-operate.

I have I in conclusion, to say that I have not received from the headquarters of the Army, or any other source, an order or official communication of any kind, with the exception of your letter of the 8th instant, and the order assigning me to duty, which was exhibited to me in Richmond. I presume the derangement of the mails has been the cause of this, and I ask that copies be forwarded to me, via West Point.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. B. TALIAFERRO, Colonel, Commanding Post.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 12, 1861.

Col. J. A. EARLY, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding, &c., Lynchburg, Va.:

COLONEL: Yours of the 9th instant is at hand. Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne has been instructed to call out and muster into service five regiments of infantry or riflemen, and one of cavalry, from the counties for which Lynchburg was appointed the rendezvous by the governor’s Proclamation of the 3d instant. One thousand percussion muskets, with equipments and ammunition, as far as they can be supplied, will be sent to Lynchburg for such companies as may come there unarmed. To the cavalry companies, which may offer themselves unarmed, it is recommended to provide themselves with double-barreled shot guns, buck-shot cartridges, and pistols. The supply of cavalry arms and equipments here is nearly exhausted. It is left with Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne to determine the proportion of companies to be drawn from the different counties of his district. If the cavalry companies cannot get arms, they will have to be mustered in as infantry or riflemen.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 12, 1861.

Brig. Gen. W. GWYNN, Commanding Virginia Forces, Norfolk, Va, :

GENERAL: I am gratified to learn that all your preparations for defense are so well advanced. It is important for you, now being prepared {p.836} against any immediate attack, to review your lines of defense, strengthen, improve, and enlarge them, as necessity and opportunity may permit, and apply all your means and use every exertion to the instruction and discipline of your men, and prepare them for hard and active service. With this view, they should be placed at or Rear the points where their services will be required in case of an attack and be prepared and habituated to the necessities of service. Is the revetment of Fort Norfolk sufficiently protected by earthern-covered ways, and are the parapets of all your redoubts sufficiently thick and high to resist heavy shot and protect the men within? If not, they had better be strengthened and every measure taken to give confidence and security to the men.

In the fabrication of musket cartridges at this point we are now obliged to use coarse powder for want of musket powder. As you have a large amount of cartridges on hand, you are desired to send ten barrels of musket powder, as soon as possible, to Colonel Dimmock, at this place. Telegraphed to this effect to-day.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 12, 1861.

Col. T. J. JACKSON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

COLONEL: I have just received your letter of the 11th instant, by Colonel Bennett. I am concerned at the feeling evinced in Maryland, and fear it may extend to other points; besides opposite Shepherdstown. It will be necessary, in order to allay it, that you confine yourself to a strictly defensive course. I presume the points occupied by you at Point of Rocks, Berlin, and Shepherdstown are on our side. I am glad to hear that volunteers are assembling. Over two thousand arms have already been sent to you, and one thousand more have been ordered this evening. If you only expect to receive sufficient volunteers to swell your force to four thousand five hundred men, I do not see how you can require five thousand arms, as you must now have nearly three thousand armed, besides the three thousand arms, above mentioned, ordered to you. We have no rifles or cavalry equipments. The latter may use double-barreled shot-guns and buck-shot if no better arms can be procured. I will see to the quartermaster. I fear no field battery can be sent you besides that now preparing. The Fourth Regiment Alabama troops, from Lynchburg, have, gone to you, and I have ordered two others from the same point. Ammunition has also been ordered to you. You know our limited resources, and must abstain from all provocation for attack as long as possible.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 13, 1861.

Col. P. ST. GEORGE COCKE, Comdg. Virginia Forces, Hdqrs. Culpeper Court-House, Va.:

COLONEL: I have just received your letter of the 12th instant, and hasten to give such explanation as I can of the circumstances to which {p.837} it refers. Your change of rank has resulted from the action of the Convention. Before the termination of its session an ordinance was passed requiring all appointments in the military service by the governor to be submitted to the Convention for confirmation. The Convention also determined, as I have understood, to reduce the number of the higher grades in the service, which resulted in the renomination by the governor, by and with the advice of the council, of several officers for appointments to grades one degree lower than those to which they had been originally appointed. General Gwynn’s, General Johnston’s, General Ruggles, yours, and others were of this number. Another ordinance of the Convention gave to officers of the Provisional Army rank above, those of the volunteer forces of the same grade, and subjected them to duty with the volunteers until required for service with the Provisional Army. Colonel Ruggles and Colonel Terrett having been appointed in the Provisional Army, it was incumbent on me to recognize their rank. It therefore became necessary to change your command, which I did with regret. Of the circumstances attending it I supposed you were cognizant, as the action of the Convention, I think, occurred before your last visit to this city.

When Colonel Jackson was sent to Harper’s Ferry, it was to muster into service the companies there assembled, with a view of organizing a force as rapidly as possible to hold that point. Hence he was not directed to report in person to you on his route, as that would have occasioned delay, though it was well understood that Harpers Ferry was embraced within your command. At the present time, as well as for the reasons given in Special Orders, No. 39, it was deemed advisable to give to the commander at Harper’s Ferry command of that station, without reference to any other question. I hope you will perceive, from the foregoing explanation, which has been necessarily brief, that the change in your command was dictated by necessity and not by choice. In assigning the officers within your former district to their present posts, I was guided entirely by the convenience of the service and a desire to hasten the organization of the troops. It is temporary, and designed to meet the exigencies of the occasion. As to yourself, I desired to have the benefit of your knowledge of the troops and officers called from the extensive country assigned to you, in their organization and equipment, and hoped the service would be as agreeable to you as I believe it will be beneficial to the public. Recognizing as fully as I do your merit, patriotism, and devotion to the State, I do not consider that either rank or position are necessary to bestow upon you honor, but believe that you will confer honor on the position. In the present crisis of affairs, I know that your own feelings, better than any words of mine, will point out the best course for you to pursue to advance the cause in which you are engaged, and to promote the interests of the service, which you have so much at heart, and will leave to the voice of your fellow-citizens to assign to you the position you deserve.

I am, with high respect and esteem, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, Major-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 13, 1861.

Maj. F. M. BOYKIN, Grafton, Va. :

MAJOR: Your letter of May 10 has been received. On the 11th instant I wrote to inform you that four hundred rifles were ordered to be {p.838} sent to the care of Major Goff, Virginia volunteers, at Beverly, Randolph County, subject to the directions of Col. George A. Porterfield. Six hundred rifles, in addition to the four hundred of which you were already notified, have been ordered to be sent from Staunton to the care of Major Goff, Virginia volunteers, at Beverly, which will be subject to Colonel Porterfield’s orders. I regret to hear of the difficulties mentioned in your letter of mustering troops at and in the vicinity of Grafton, but hope that by perseverance you will overcome them. Major Goff has been directed to muster troops in Randolph and adjacent counties, and it is hoped he will be enabled to obtain a sufficient number for the purposes mentioned in your letter, as it is deemed unadvisable to send troops from the east for the present.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 13, 1861.

Brigadier-General GWYNN, Commanding, &c., Norfolk, Va.:

GENERAL: Your letter of the 10th, requesting authority to call into service an additional cavalry company, has been received. It was supposed that four mounted companies would be sufficient for the service at Norfolk, as their duty would be mainly vedette. Your water communications and system of signals, it was hoped, would enable you to lighten that service. It is an expensive force, difficult in that region to forage, and should not be increased beyond the actual necessities of the service. Should another company, however, be indispensable, you are authorized to call it out. It may be proper for you to keep in mind that there are no cavalry arms here for issue; so, unless it be already provided with arms, it cannot be equipped.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Montgomery, May 14, 1861.

Gov. JOHN B. FLOYD, Abingdon, Va.:

Can you get in a brigade of your mountain riflemen with their own tried weapons? Proceed as far as you can. Answer by telegraph.

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

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ABINGDON, May 14, 1861.

His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS:

I can raise the brigade, and will begin instantly.

J. B. FLOYD.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 14, 1861.

Lieut. Col. B. S. EWELL, Commanding, &c., Williamsburg, Va.:

COLONEL: I have heard that two hundred mules were landed at Old Point on Saturday, the 11th instant, and some horses previously. I {p.839} should be, glad if you could ascertain from any of our friends about Hampton the truth of this report, and also make arrangements with some, reliable person in Hampton to keep you advised of what is going on in the neighborhood of Hampton, and also at Old Point. Should you deem any of it of sufficient importance, I request to be informed of it. I hope you will call out all the volunteers from the counties within your jurisdiction, give them the necessary orders as to their duties, and urge forward their instruction and equipment as soon as possible.

I will send to Yorktown, via West Point, on the 16th instant, three companies of infantry and one of artillery, to protect the battery to be erected at that place. It is desired that you place yourself in communication with the officer commanding, and give him all the advice and facilities in your power.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 14, 1861.

Brig. Gen. W. GWYNN, Commanding, &c., Norfolk, Va.:

GENERAL: I have understood that two hundred mules were landed at Old Point Comfort on Saturday last, and some horses previously, with baggage wagons. I desire you, if you can, to ascertain the truth of this report, and whether any preparations are there being made for movements on land. I hope you are urging forward as fast as possible your land defenses, securing a sufficient quantity of ammunition for all your arms, small as well as large, both for immediate act-ion and for a protracted defense, and making every other needful arrangement in case of an attack. Your field batteries should be provided with horses and a fall equipment for field service, and the men thoroughly instructed. The authority requested in your letter of the 10th instant, to call a cavalry company into service, in addition to the four now on hand, if you deem it necessary, is granted.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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NORFOLK, VA., May 14, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

The force under my command is about six thousand. Four thousand more are needed, and should be ordered here as soon as possible. No response as yet has been made to the call of the governor or myself. The troops ordered here should come well armed and equipped, and with camp equipage for the Virginia and foreign troops now here, and for troops which have been called into service from Virginia, as well as for deficiencies in the camp equipage of foreign troops which may be ordered here. There are required two hundred wall tents and four hundred common tents.

WALTER GWYNN.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 14, 1861.

Brig. Gen. W. GWYNN, Commanding, &c., Norfolk, Va.:

GENERAL: Your telegram of the 14th instant has been received. On the 3d of May I was gratified at receiving your report, stating your confidence in holding the navy-yard with five thousand troops. I made arrangements to provide you with six thousand, and hoped, by the call for additional volunteers, under the proclamation of the governor of the 3d instant, that this number would be increased to a larger amount. I have no more available troops at this time to send you, but it is hoped that; with the troops you have and additional volunteers you will receive, you will be able to maintain your position, to accomplish which you must organize your troops and advance their instruction as speedily as possible. There are no tents here for distribution.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 14, 1861.

Col. T. J. JACKSON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

COLONEL: I am very much concerned at the condition of things and the failure to procure volunteers for the service of the State in the country west of you. One thousand stand of arms and some ammunition will be sent to-morrow, under the charge of a troop of cavalry, from Staunton to Beverly, Randolph County, for the use of Colonel Porterfield. This troop is to collect together volunteers from the well-affected portions of the country through which it passes. If your condition is such as to allow it, I would like you to send some aid to Colonel Porterfield; but I am unwilling for you to send a man, if by so doing you endanger yourself in the least. Re-enforcements are being sent to you.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond Va, May 14, 1861.

Lieut. Col. E. K. SMITH, Commanding Confederate States Troops, Lynchburg, Va.:

COLONEL: The commanding general instructs me to say to you that if there are any regiments of Confederate States troops now under your command in Lynchburg which are ready to take the field, he desires you to send them to this city, where they will find provision already prepared for them by Maj. W. L. Cabell, of the Quartermaster’s Department, C. S. Army. If you have none fit for immediate service, you are instructed to forward them from time to time, by battalions or regiments, under their proper field officers, as soon as you can prepare them for such service, but not to exceed in all three regiments. He requests to be duly notified as often as you send them forward.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, Va., May 14, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

SIR: I report, for the information of the General-in-Chief, that I returned to this place on Sunday morning, the 12th instant, from Manassas Junction, where I had gone to examine the position and the country around, and to make arrangements for gathering a force there for the defense of the place. My observations of the country were mainly directed towards the Potomac, on the right flank, and I find the head of tide, at Occoquan, approached within eighteen miles of Manassas. Mr. John Grant, my acting engineer and topographical draughtsman, was sent forward with a guide, to examine the roads towards Occoquan, while I myself rode over the most direct road, to a point where it crosses the Occoquan River, seven or eight miles to the right of Manassas Junction. Mr. Grant subsequently pursued this latter road to the village or landing of Occoquan, the head of tide, and I can report that the country upon these routes, covering the right flank of the position at Manassas Junction, is quite favorable for defensive operations, the same being broken or undulating, covered with dense forests of second-growth pines or of original oak, except here, and small fields or farms, the roads very narrow (mere ditches), and everywhere such as to render artillery and cavalry of our enemy on the march of little use to him, while the cover of forests, hills, and ravines make a fortress for brave men and riflemen in which to carry on the destructive guerrilla warfare upon any marching columns from that side. Nevertheless the proximity of the Potomac River, on that side, from Manassas Junction to Alexandria, will ever require extreme vigilance and precaution to cover the right of that line from flank attack at other points, where the ways may be more open and inviting.

The force that I have been enabled to assemble thus far at Manassas Junction consists of a detachment of artillery, under Capt. D. Kemper, with two 6-pounders; Capt. W. H. Payne’s company, numbering 76 men; Capt. J. S. Green’s company, numbering 57 men; Captain Hamilton’s company, numbering about 60, and two Irish companies, numbering, respectively, 54 and 58, and Colonel Garland’s force, arrived Sunday, consisting of 490 men. Altogether, about 830 men. Also Captain Marr’s company, 88 Warrenton Riflemen. Total, 918. The Powhatan Troop, under Captain Lay, has been ordered back here, and will arrive to-day.

Should Colonel Terrett make Manassas his headquarters, he will doubtless go on to strengthen it with forces to be gathered within the large and populous district assigned to his immediate command. I have advised Colonel Terrett, through a letter yesterday, addressed to him, not to leave Alexandria himself until he shall be well satisfied that his next in command there will be a man of cool, firm, and otherwise able character, to hold that important outpost so long as it be possible for brave men to hold it.

The General-in-Chief may be assured that I will make all practicable efforts to bring about the speedy assembling, mustering into service, organizing, drilling, and disciplining of the volunteers on my whole line, and to draw from this source as rapidly as possible, to strengthen the main positions on this line-a line which even now remains almost wholly open to the enemy, should he decide to march with any force upon it. Indeed, it would seem highly expedient, in view, of the now openly acknowledged and accepted state of war on the part of the {p.842} Confederate Congress, that this line, hitherto left wholly to its own feeble resources, and directly in front, as it is, of the enemy’s massed force at Washington, should immediately be put in an adequate attitude of defense by such exterior aid or re-enforcements of Southern troops as have been heretofore withheld from this line, while they have been concentrated at Richmond, Norfolk, and Harper’s Ferry, leaving absolutely at the mercy of the enemy the town of Alexandria, the gallant little band which now holds that post, and the whole system of railroads which, debouching from Alexandria, penetrates this noble country to its very heart, connected with the valley and strategically with Harper’s Ferry, and thus laying bare the very vitals of the State to a deadly attack or to a stunning blow. Verbum sap. The hour for closing the mail is at hand, and the General-in-Chief will pardon the imposition of this. Germane subjects will be pursued in the next following dispatch.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

PHILIP ST. GEO. COOKE, Colonel, Commanding Potomac Department.

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HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, Va., May 14, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

SIR: I communicate herewith a paper for the information of the General in-Chief, which may have a significance of some interest just at this juncture. I would also communicate to the general that I was yesterday informed by Major Brent, Virginia volunteers, and direct from Alexandria, that the enemy is prolonging himself along the canal, and has already reached Monocacy with his advanced post, which point is at the junction of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad with the canal, so that already Colonel Jackson’s vedettes may be in sight of the enemy. Some of my cavalry being without pistols, I would be glad if they could be provided with lances.

Very respectfully, your most obedient,

PHILIP ST. GEO. COCKE, Colonel, Commanding Potomac Department.

[Inclosure.]

WASHINGTON HOME GUARD OF CAVALRY, May 13, 1861.

Lieutenant-Colonel TERRETT, Commanding Post at Alexandria, Va.:

My vedettes of Saturday and Sunday reported “that, while upon their station, clear the Aqueduct, at Georgetown, at noon of each day, they were fired upon from Georgetown, the balls striking the trees near them, forcing them to change their position, when the firing was repeated upon their new position.” To-day, with five men, selected and well armed, I proceeded upon the tow-path, on the Aqueduct, to the middle, when I summoned the corporal of the U. S. guard, and demanded an explanation of the firing. He stated that it was not from his men. His orders were to stop supplies, suspicious persons, and to act upon the defensive. I then sent a messenger to the mayor of Georgetown, demanding an explanation of him. Received in reply, through superintendent of police, that the corporate authorities would punish {p.843} the offenders if found out; that my complaint had been brought before the military commandant, and that all ball-cartridges would be taken from the troops quartered in Georgetown. The mayor offered me an escort and protection if I would visit Georgetown for more explicit explanation, but I considered that received as sufficient.

Submitted by

E. B. POWELL, Captain.

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AQUIA CREEK LANDING, VA., May 14, 1861-7.10 a. m.

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: The steamer Mount Vernon is within three hundred yards of the batteries. Steamer Pocahontas is within two miles. Please send re-enforcements immediately.

GEO. H. PEYTON, Lieutenant, in Command.

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GRAFTON, VA., May 14, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces, Richmond:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that in compliance with orders of the 4th instant, which failed to reach me in time for earlier action, I arrived at Grafton at an early hour this morning. The officers directed to report to me are not present; nor is there any volunteer or other force here. I will at once proceed to ascertain the whereabouts of Major Goff’s command, which I hope to find soon, and will then endeavor to unite with one or more companies, with which I will return and take position in or near this place. On account of the sparseness of the population here, it will be difficult to get the various companies to act in concert.

After my return I would desire as soon as possible to be re-enforced by a detachment of not less than two hundred and fifty men and a few pieces of artillery, if they can be spared from the command at Harper’s Ferry.

The loyal citizens of this section much need and should have all the protection the State can give them.

There is great disaffection in this and the adjoining counties, and opposition to the lawful action of the State authorities is certainly contemplated.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. A. PORTERFIELD, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers.

P. S.-Please direct my letters to Fetterman, one mile distant from Grafton, and the only post-office in this county to which letters can be sent with safety.

G. A. P.

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HEADQUARTERS GLOUCESTER POINT, May 14, 1861.

Lieut. Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: ... I wish to obtain information from headquarters as to the character and extent of my authority under the law of Virginia as commanding officer at this post.

There are at this place three tenements, owned and inhabited by citizens; these houses are necessary for the accommodation of the sick and for depots for quartermaster’s and commissary stores. These citizens refuse to leave them or to rent them to the government for any reasonable sum.

I have no hospital yet established, and there is Ro means of providing other hospital accommodations than those afforded by huts, and it is essential to have a ventilated building for this purpose, and it is important to have control of all the tenements within the limit of our lines. I believe an exorbitant rent would be charged, and perhaps a spirit of resistance to military interference would prevent the possibility of renting at any price.

I ask instructions as to the powers I possess under the law.

An armed vessel of the United States steamed into York River yesterday, and approached within some three miles of our works. She did not, however, venture to approach nearer, but seemed to be engaged in sounding the channel at the mouth of the river. No boats were sent out, from her and no attempt made to land troops; other steamers of the enemy have been observed in Mobjack Bay and just without the mouth of York River.

Our water battery is now armed with three 9-inch guns, and the men have been constantly instructed in the working of the guns by Capt. T. J. Page, of the Navy.

Should the enemy land in force on this side of York River, either on the York or the waters of Severn, it would be necessary to resist them with a much larger force of infantry than that now at this post.

There are but two infantry companies here, and the light batteries are without horses.

For so small a command as there now is here, and I see no probability of its being increased materially for some time, I beg to suggest the necessity of fortifying the land approaches in our rear, and I ask that, should it meet the approbation of the general commanding in chief, a military engineer be ordered here to plan and lay out the works.

I have found it entirely impossible, from the absence of all accommodations for the troops and from the constant detail of almost the entire strength every day for work in landing and placing in position the heavy guns, to effect a proper organization, or to devote much time to drill or instructions.

No blank forms have as yet been received, and I ask that you will forward them. I have no blank requisitions, and suppose it is unnecessary to forward a requisition. I will send receipt if necessary.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. B. TALIAFERRO, Colonel, Commanding Post.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Montgomery, May 15, 1861.

Brig. Gen. JOS. E. JOHNSTON, C. S. A., Montgomery, Ala.:

SIR: Having been appointed a brigadier-general in the Army of the Confederate States, you have been assigned by the War Department to the command of the troops near Harper’s Ferry. In proceeding to that point the Secretary of War directs that you take Lynchburg in your route, and make arrangements there for sending forward to Harper’s {p.845} Ferry such force as you may deem necessary to strengthen your command.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 15, 1861.

Col. P. ST. GEORGE COCKE Commanding, &c., Culpeper Court-House, Va.:

COLONEL: I have received your letter of the 14th instant, and am gratified at your arrangements for the defense of Manassas Junction, and the favorable account you give of the country towards the Potomac for defensive operations. I hope, by a judicious use of its natural obstacles, that the march of a hostile column will be much embarrassed. I have to request that you will endeavor to fill up Colonel Garland’s and Colonel Preston’s regiments from the companies that will report to you, as desired in my letter of the 10th instant, and as soon as you are able to form other regiments that you will send such re-enforcements to Manassas Junction as in your judgment may be necessary or as may be requested by Colonel Terrett. Please direct the troops you may send to the Junction to report to Colonel Garland, and place them under Colonel Terrett’s orders. I beg leave also to request that you will give to Colonel Terrett the benefit of your information and advice respecting the troops and country in which he is operating. It is desired to strengthen that whole line as rapidly as the organization of troops will admit, to resist any attack from the forces at Washington. Hitherto it was impossible to concentrate an adequate force for the defense of Alexandria, an abortive attempt at which would, in my opinion, have had no other effect than to hazard the destruction of the city. The posts at Norfolk and Harper’s Ferry, which seemed to be first threatened, being in some measure fortified, our resources can now be applied to your line of operations. Should an advance be made on Colonel Terrett, or an intention be manifested to seize the Manassas Junction, you are desired to sustain Colonel Terrett with your whole force.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 15, 1861.

Col. GEORGE H. TERRETT, Alexandria, Va.:

COLONEL: I have requested Colonel Cocke to fill up Colonel Garland’s regiment, stationed at Manassas Junction, from companies called by him into the service of the State, and, as soon as he can organize other regiments, to send such re-enforcements to that point as he may deem necessary or you require. It will be necessary for you to give particular attention to the defense of that point, and to organize your force in front of it, to oppose, as far as your means will allow, any advance into the country from Washington. It is not expected possible, with the troops at present under your command, that you will be able {p.846} to resist successfully any attempt to occupy Alexandria, but you may prevent the extension of marauders into the country and the advance of troops on the railroad. Should you discover an intention to seize the Manassas Junction, you will notify Colonel Cocke, who will advance to sustain you, and you will, with his and your whole force, oppose it. It will be necessary to watch the approaches on your right from the Potomac, as the distance from Occoquan, which point may be reached in boats, is not more than eighteen or twenty miles from Manassas Junction. You are again requested to urge forward the organization and equipment of your troops, and to see that your officers labor diligently at the instruction and discipline, and be prepared to take the field at any moment.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 17.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 15, 1861.

The following order from the governor and council (having been communicated to the commanding general of the Virginia forces, with his excellency’s instructions to carry it into effect) is published for the information and guidance of the Virginia troops, viz:

All officers commanding troops from the State of Virginia will accordingly take measures, upon the receipt of this order, to take the vote of such troops, in conformity with the terms of the seventh section of the schedule accompanying the ordinance of secession.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS POTOMAC DEPARTMENT, Culpeper Court-House, Va., May 15, 1861.

General R. E. LEE, Commander-in-Chief:

SIR: I. In my dispatch, which I had the honor to make on yesterday, I addressed myself to the consideration of the great importance of this my central line of operations through Culpeper, Manassas, Alexandria, &c. I endeavored to impress upon the mind of the General-in-Chief {p.847} the exceedingly feeble means of defense as yet gathered upon this line, notwithstanding the exertions that have been and that are being made. I showed how easy it would be to take Alexandria in reverse, thus to paralyze and capture the little force there, to advance upon Manassas, where there are at present scarcely a thousand men, seize the whole section of railroad, and thus be able to pour their masses like an avalanche over this fine region, and by using the Manassas Gap Road to turn the positions of Harper’s Ferry and Winchester, take them in rear, and isolate them effectually. In order to prevent results so disastrous, the General-in-Chief will pardon me if I urge upon his consideration what I conceive to be the great importance of immediately massing troops, first at Manassas and next at Winchester, in support of Harper’s Ferry. If at this moment we had eight or ten thousand well-appointed men of all arms at those points, respectively, they would not be too many to enable us to play an equal game with the enemy, who at this moment doubtless has forty thousand men in and about Washington and from fifteen to twenty thousand at Harrisburg and Carlisle; all to be concentrated upon Harper’s Ferry or to be precipitated along this line whenever he shall decide to commence invasion. It is obvious, sir, with a strong corps d’armee at Manassas, and at least a division at Winchester, these two bodies being connected by a continuous railway through Manassas Gap, there should be kept all times upon that road ample means of transportation. These two columns-one at Manassas and one at Winchester-could readily co-operate and concentrate upon the one point or the other, either to make head against the enemy’s columns, advancing down the valley, should he force Harper’s Ferry, or, in case we repulse him at Harper’s Ferry, the Winchester supporting column could throw itself on this side of the mountains, to co-operate with the column at Manassas and all that can come up in the rear of this line, to hurl back the invader, should he attempt to march beyond the Potomac upon Virginia’s soil.

II. I have every reason to believe that the officers recently appointed and assigned to the work of enlisting and mustering into the service volunteers in the geographical bounds of this central line of the Potomac Department, are exerting themselves with great zeal and energy, and that in the course of a few weeks they will raise and send forward a large portion, if not all, of the ten regiments of infantry, two of cavalry, and one of artillery I was authorized to raise within these limits. In the mean time it may be well for the General-in-Chief to consider what other means, more immediately available, he can throw upon this line, to provide against a possible early invasion of our Potomac border.

I remain, general, very respectfully, your most obedient,

PHILIP ST. GEO. COCKE, Colonel, Commanding Potomac Department.

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STAUNTON, May 15, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE:

SIR: I reached here this afternoon in charge of three hundred troops from Monroe, Greenbrier, and Alleghany, forming two infantry and two rifle companies. Three of the companies are entirely without arms, and the other, an infantry company, has only some fifty-five flint-lock muskets, in bad order. The companies are not yet fully uniformed and I will have to detain them here for three or four days for the purpose of completing their equipment, which is to be done at the expense of their {p.848} respective counties. In the mean time I shall be glad to know if I must send on to Harper’s Ferry those companies which are entirely unarmed. Three of the companies are raw and undisciplined, although the material of which they are composed is very fine.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNO. ECHOLS, Lieutenant-Colonel of Volunteers.

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QUARTERMASTER’S OFFICE, VIRGINIA FORCES, Staunton, May 15, 1861.

His Excellency JOHN LETCHER, Governor of Virginia:

DEAR SIR: By direction of Major-General Lee, I will start to-day the arms, &c., intended for the Northwest, under escort of Capt. F. F. Sterrett’s company of cavalry. I have also, in furtherance of the plan concurred in by Col. F. H. Smith, ordered Capt. Felix H. Hull, who is now here, to proceed at once to Highland and gather two hundred men, including his company, to accompany Captain Sterrett’s command. I have further issued the following orders: to Captain Moorman, of Pendleton, to repair at once to Monterey with two hundred men, if possible, including his company; to Captains Stover and McNeil, of Pocahontas, to repair to Huttonsville, each with one hundred and fifty men, if possible, including his company; they severally to unite their commands with Captain Sterrett’s and proceed to Beverly. I have ordered Colonel Goff, of the last-named place, to collect the volunteer forces of Randolph and such other force of men as he can gather, and I have directed each and all of these officers to bring with them such supply of arms and ammunition as they could without delay procure. I now respectfully invite you to issue at once to Colonel Goff, or such other person as may seem good to you, such orders and directions, with regard to this expedition in aid of the Northwest, as may appear expedient. My aim is that it shall reach its destination (Grafton, if thought proper) at least by the day of election; at this last point it will be in communication by rail with Harper’s Ferry and may from thence be re enforced or vice versa.

I shall also send with the expedition at least a wagon load of bacon, to avoid a possibility of a want of provisions.

Hoping that my action in this matter may meet with your approval, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

M. G. HARMAN.

[Indorsement.]

GENERAL HEADQUARTERS, May 15, 1861.

Referred to General Lee for his information and such action as he may direct.

By order:

S. BASSETT FRENCH, A. D. C.

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WINCHESTER, VA, May 15, 1861.

General ROBERT E. LEE, Richmond, Va.:

DEAR SIR: I returned yesterday from Harper’s Ferry, where I spent two days, as a deeply interested, however unskilled, observer of military affairs in this quarter. I am glad to say, so far as I could tell, {p.849} that things appeared to be fast assuming the aspect of good military organization, and officers and men cheerful and buoyant. I spent the evening and night at Colonel Jackson’s headquarters, and even my limited observation there confirmed the general tone of all around him, that all were in good hands under his command. You will doubtless have better sources of information than could be opened to a wayfarer, but the immediate and daily intercourse between Harper’s Ferry and Baltimore, although the pregnant source of countless rumors, yet there are occasional items of intelligence which, when put together, may not be unworthy of consideration; and although you are doubtless kept fully advised by Colonel Jackson, yet I venture to throw in my mite.

The Federal troops being now in full possession of Baltimore, with the railroads leading to it, north and east, from Pennsylvania, and the spirit of resistance in Maryland overpowered, for the time at least, it is considered that the Federal Army will be gradually extended, and in force, westward along the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. It has been said in the papers, I know not whether on authority, that Governor Letcher has some scruple or doubt about occupying the mountain heights in Maryland opposite to Harper’s Ferry. Of course I did not inquire of Colonel Jackson, nor do I know, what counsels prevail on this point. I learned at the Ferry, in general conversation, that some four or five hundred Virginia troops occupied those heights, and it was said that preparation was making to fortify or intrench them. That whichever power holds those heights commands the town of Harper’s Ferry none can doubt; and there is as little doubt that a small body intrenched and fortified there, well and appropriately armed, could hold it against a far superior force. All this, however, is better known to you than to me. I want to speak only of our right to fortify and hold those heights, whether Maryland protest or no, putting aside the law of necessity and its sanctions. If Maryland were suo jure, and a friendly contiguous power, the occupation of her territory by forces hostile and menacing to Virginia give the clear right in public law to Virginia to occupy her territory too, so far as necessary for self-protection; a right not to be questioned under existing circumstances by Maryland or any other power. But Maryland is not suo jure; she remains one of the United States, a power now foreign to Virginia, and in open and avowed hostility to us. Occupying her territory, therefore, is only occupying territory of the enemy; nor is it invasion in the proper sense of that term, because the occupation is defensive and precautionary only, and not for aggression, and will cease as soon as the enemy withdraw from Maryland.

I have another suggestion to make, because of the disaffected condition of portions of the northwestern part of Virginia pervaded by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, a highway owned and controlled by Marylanders, who are now in complete subjection to the Federal power. It seems important to me that a sufficient military force of our State should be exhibited and retained along that road, at important points west of Harper’s Ferry, and at least as far as the western slopes of the Alleghany Mountains; and as two such points I would indicate Piedmont, in Hampshire County, and Grafton, in Taylor County. The preservation of this road, I should presume, will be all important to the Federal power, and of correlative importance to us to have it in our power-if unable to hold it, to break it up at points where it will be impracticable to restore or repair it in any convenient time. The numerous tunnels through the mountains, the numerous bridges across the rivers and streams, and especially the expensive and complicated {p.850} viaduct along the Cheat River, in the Alleghany Mountains, furnish abundant places for such irremediable damage, provided we are in advance of the invaders. Nor would any large force be required, provided it was well distributed and under competent commanders.

I pray you to receive as my excuse for these, perhaps, intrusive suggestions, the deep and anxious interest we all have in the great stake at hazard in Virginia.

Very respectfully, and truly yours,

J. M. MASON.

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HEADQUARTERS Fredericksburg, Va., May 15, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: In reply to the inquiry of the General-in-Chief of the 14th instant I have the honor to report that I have given the subject of the defenses of the river counties particular attention, and that the following points embrace my, conclusions, viz:

1st. That those counties are greatly exposed to predatory inroads, and constitute an important portion of our line of defense.

2d. That there is a deficiency of arms and ammunition in those counties generally, for purposes of local defense.

3d. That the best method of supply and distribution is to arm such volunteer companies as may be thoroughly organized and mustered into the service of the State. (Please see General Orders, No. 9, of the 11th instant, and copy of a letter, of this date, to a committee of gentlemen from Lancaster County, Virginia, connected with this subject.) To insure proper accountability, receipts of captains of companies mustered into service should be taken for all arms and accouterments.

4th. The establishment of camps of instruction at one point in each county, and, as nearly as practicable, in exposed districts.

5th. I also respectfully recommend that the militia be ordered to hold themselves in readiness for service, in their own defense, at all times, while engaged in their own avocations, and without expense to the State.

6th. I have furnished sixty muskets, one thousand ball-cartridges, and some hundred and twenty flints, on the requisition of the committee from Lancaster County, for Captain Robinson’s company, which will soon be mustered into the service of the State.

I have deemed it expedient to muster in two companies in that county, as a basis on which the militia may rally, in the event of invasion, as well as to preserve the tranquillity of the community.

These companies, and an equal number from each of the neighboring counties, will probably be required to make up two regiments of infantry and riflemen in the district I command, for the active service of the field.

Should the plan thus far pursued (supposed to be in conformity with the commanding general’s views) not correspond with the existing policy, I shall hope to receive early information, so as to adopt an approved rule of action.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL RUGGLES, Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.

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ENGINEER OFFICE, Richmond, May 15, 1861.

General R. E. LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

In obedience to your order of Saturday evening last, my attention has been given to the defense of this city.

Three topographical parties are now in the field, and by Thursday I expect the examination will be sufficiently advanced to enable me to locate and lay out such defensive works as will give employment to all the laboring force at the disposal of the city authorities.

The examinations made in person have brought me to the conclusion that four or five strong redoubts on points to be selected well in advance of the city limits will afford all the protection required at this time, and be fully within its means to construct and of the State to defend them.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ANDREW TALCOTT, Engineer, &c.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES. Richmond, Va., May 16, 1861.

Col. GEORGE H. TERRETT, Provisional Army of Virginia, Comdg., &c., Alexandria, Va.:

COLONEL: In reply to your inquiries, by telegraph, in relation to persons from Maryland desiring to pass over the roads, to offer their services to the State, I am instructed by the commanding general to say that you can offer them service in your command and muster them in if they accept it.

I am, sir, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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LYNCHBURG, VA., May 16, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General, Virginia Forces:

COLONEL: I arrived here this morning, and have assumed command of the Virginia volunteers mustered into the service of the State at this place. It was not possible for me to get here sooner, as I was compelled to make some preparation to enable me to go into the service. I find that Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne has mustered into the service two companies of cavalry, one from Lynchburg and the other from Bedford; also, seven companies of infantry, two from Lynchburg, two from Bedford, two from Botetourt, and one from Floyd. Two companies reached here this evening from Roanoke, and will be mustered into the Service to-morrow: The company of cavalry from Lynchburg, commanded by Capt. John S. Langhorne, has sabers, but no other arms. The company of cavalry from Bedford, commanded by Capt. William R. Terry, has about fifty sabers, leaving twenty odd without any arms, and those having sabers have no other arms. Three companies, belonging to the Twelfth Brigade of Militia, were reported by the adjutant-general of the militia as armed. The infantry companies have no arms whatever, and I imagine that there are no companies in the counties for which this place is the rendezvous which are armed. I know such {p.852} is the case in the Twelfth Brigade, composed of the counties of Campbell, Bedford, Franklin, Henry, and Patrick. All the armed companies were ordered into the service by the governor some time since. If, therefore, five regiments of infantry and riflemen and one of cavalry are mustered into the service at this place, and they are armed here, it will be necessary to have sent here near five thousand stand of muskets and rifles, and the same number of sets of accouterments, and about one thousand arms for cavalry, and the like number of sets of accouterments. Some of the companies already here have knapsacks, but most of them are without them, and those likely to come hereafter will be entirely unprovided in that particular. There are not quite enough tents, of an inferior quality and make, for the troops that are here, and no suitable material is to be found at this place for making more. There are not enough mess-pans and camp-kettles for the troops that have been mustered into service, and the assistant quartermaster, Captain Gilmer, informs me that he has orders from the head of the Quartermaster’s Department to make no contract for the manufacture of any articles without orders from headquarters. There are several establishments here in which mess-pans, camp-kettles, and canteens can be manufactured, and I suggest that orders be given to that effect. If knapsacks cannot be furnished from Richmond, the men can make out pretty well by rolling up their clothes in their blankets and wrapping pieces of coarse cloth around them; and there are several large tobacco factories, which are idle, and can be procured as quarters for the troops, so that if arms can be furnished we can get along. If there are plenty of good flint-lock muskets they will do very well if percussion muskets cannot be furnished to all.

I find matters here in quite a confused state, owing to the inexperience of the officers of all the departments. Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne has made no apportionment of troops among the counties to rendezvous here, and, in fact, has made no call, specifying the number to be received at this place. He has merely given notice, in the papers, that he would muster into service volunteer companies from the counties designated. This has produced a good deal of uncertainty and confusion. I do not wish this to be considered as a complaint against Colonel Langhorne. It results from his entire want of experience in such matters. I am satisfied he has been endeavoring to discharge his duty faithfully; but I would very respectfully suggest that it is rather out of the usual course to intrust to a mustering officer, of inferior rank, so large a discretion in regard to calling out volunteers. It strikes me that a call stating the number of regiments to be received here and the number and kind of companies to be raised in each county would facilitate the business very much. Some of the counties, as, for instance, Henry, Patrick, Carroll, Giles, Mercer, Tazewell, Wise, Buchanan, and McDowell, are remote from the lines of railroad, and cannot be communicated with very expeditiously; and, therefore, it is important that the call upon them should be definite. I would also suggest that it is not likely that there will be more cavalry companies from the counties east of the mountains except the two already mustered and one from Franklin unless, perhaps, one may be raised in Campbell. The counties west of the Alleghany must be relied on to furnish the remainder of the companies required to make out a regiment. Colonel Radford has reported, and he would prefer having command of the regiment of cavalry, and I think it would be better to give it to him, as he will, in all likelihood, be the only colonel that will be available who has had experience as a cavalry officer. I do not understand exactly the {p.853} last orders in regard to the troops from Campbell, Bedford, Botetourt, Roanoke, and Craig (letter from Major-General Lee, of May 9). Am I to organize a regiment out of said troops, and give Colonel Radford the command of it, or shall I give him command of the whole, including the cavalry companies, and order him to report with them to Colonel Cocke? Shall I send off said troops before they are armed, or wait for their arms?

Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne informs me that he received instructions to send Captain Moorman’s company (called the Beauregard Rifles) to Richmond, to be armed. The order, however, has been mislaid, and, as he may have misunderstood its tenor, and the instructions are inconsistent with the orders to me to send the troops from Campbell, &c., to Colonel Cocke, I have thought proper to wait for further orders, which, for dispatch, can be sent by telegraph, if the company is to be sent to Richmond.

A Mr. Eugene Carrington has exhibited to me an order from Major Ficklin, quartermaster, appointing him transportation agent here, and directing all orders for transporting troops, &c., from this place to emanate from him. I had thought that the quartermaster here would have control of the arrangements for transportation from this point, but I confess I am little acquainted with such matters, and I submit whether the appointment by Major Ficklin of a transportation agent here (while there is a quartermaster here) is regular.

I hardly think much can be done in the way of arming cavalry companies with double-barreled guns in this region. A number of the men have not got them, and have not the means of purchasing them if they were to be had.

You will pardon the length of this letter, but I thought it better to embrace all the matters about which I want instructions, and about which it is necessary to communicate with you, in one letter than several.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. EARLY, Colonel, Volunteers, Commanding at Lynchburg, Va.

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WILLIAMSBURG, VA., May 16, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

SIR: A reply to your communication of the 14th instant, as well as to the reference to me of Colonel Mallory’s letter of the 13th, directed to Governor Letcher, is contained in the following statement:

Immediately on my return here, learning that Yorktown had been threatened by a U. S. steamer, and that a creek, a short distance below, had been entered by a barge, filled with men, with as little delay as practicable I sent the Irwin Guard, to protect, to the extent their strength would allow, the citizens of the town and county near; and, on the same day, went there myself. After careful inquiry, I came to the conclusion that no landing was contemplated or had been, and that the alarm was groundless.

From Yorktown I went to Hampton, for the purpose of calling into service the volunteer force in the vicinity. On the road I was informed of the demonstrations (alluded to in the letter of Colonel Mallory) by the garrison of Fort Monroe, and, in consequence, determined to see Colonel Dimick, at present commandant of the fort, and ascertain, if possible, the cause of the encroachment. On the 14th (Thursday) I requested {p.854} and obtained an interview with him. He informed me that in taking possession of the spring west of Mill Creek he had no other object than to get water for his garrison, and that unless the safety (health) of his troops required an expansion of the area within the Government limits, for encampments, &c., he had no idea, under existing circumstances, of an aggressive movement. He frankly told me at the same time that he did not know in how short or long a time these circumstances might be changed. He laughed at the idea of violence being contemplated towards Hampton. He expressed great regret at the present state of things, and was kind and conciliatory. We agreed it would be better for the guards not to approach too close together. Accordingly I gave orders to the guards from Hampton not to go within half a mile of the fort. Judging from the means of information within my reach, and from what I saw and heard near the fort (I was not admitted beyond a point near the gate, on the outside), I have no hesitation in asserting that no mules or horses have been landed there in any numbers, and that the force is not sufficient, in any respect, to warrant the supposition of an invasion from that quarter. I shall endeavor to keep you informed of any important changes in the state of things around Fort Monroe.

While in Hampton I directed the formation of a camp of instruction and observation, within about three miles of the town, to be commanded by Major Cary. This camp will be the rendezvous of five companies, numbering about three hundred and twenty men. It is as well to say that this camp will not cost the State anything, the material being furnished by the county. The same is true of the camp near Williamsburg. Major Cary is instructed to maintain a system of patrols, and to keep pickets at the most important points and landings; also, to obstruct the roads, as far as is compatible with their use by the neighborhood.

In addition to the five companies, there are seven foot and one horse company (about 500 men) ready, or very nearly so, to be mustered into service. Of these 820 volunteers not more than 300 are armed, and of the 300, at least 150 have only flint-lock muskets. There ought to be four hundred percussion-lock muskets sent at once. As yet I have received but two hundred and fifty flint-lock guns, and a part of them cannot be used, being imperfect.

No further orders have been received by me respecting the militia. Colonel Mallory wishes to know who has the control of his regiment. The question as to my power to call them out ought to be settled. The post at Yorktown, I infer, is not under my jurisdiction. I shall, with pleasure, afford to the officer in command there all the aid I can. Are the approaches below Yorktown to be under the supervision of Major Montague, also?

As the quartermaster for this district has declined, allow me to remind you of Mr. Saunders, better qualified than any one else I know.

The adjunct professor of mathematics at William and Mary College has, for several weeks, been engaged in examining and surveying the county here for the defense, and it would be proper to give him an appointment in the civil engineering department of the State. The name of the gentleman is Snead. A half a dozen cadets could be most usefully employed in the camp of instruction here, and I respectfully ask that this number be sent.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

BENJ. S. EWELL, Active Virginia Volunteers.

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GRAFTON, VA., May 16, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Army, Richmond, Va.:

COLONEL: In my last report I stated that I would first get possession of the arms consigned to Major Goff, and then try to collect a force and occupy this place. I accordingly sent a messenger to Major Goff at Beverly, about fifty miles distant, and proceeded to ascertain what force I could get, its condition, and the sentiment of the people in the counties of Taylor, Barbour, and Harrison. I also sent orders to the captains of companies, supposed to be armed, in the surrounding counties, to bring their companies immediately to a designated point, near Grafton, and there await my orders. The messenger from Beverly returned with the reply that nothing had been heard of the rifles, nor had Major Goff been informed that they were to be sent to him. This is a serious disappointment. Several companies in this vicinity are organizing and expecting to be furnished at once with arms and ammunition. I found a company organizing at Pruntytown, in this county, which will be ready to receive arms in a day or so. There is another at Philippi, in Barbour County; awaiting arms, and another in Clarksburg which will soon be ready. I have seen the officers of these companies. There are other companies forming in the surrounding counties, but all without arms and ununiformed. This force, when received, will not for some months be more effective than undisciplined militia. There are but two companies in this vicinity known to be armed. One of these, Captain Bogges’, at Weston, about forty-five miles distant, has the old flint-lock musket, in bad order, and no ammunition. The other, Captain Thompson’s, at Fairmont, twenty miles from this place, has a better gun, and some ammunition. These companies are now marching towards this point; are ordered to do so, at least. This is the only force on which I have to depend, and it is very weak, compared with the strength of those in this section who, I am assured, are ready to oppose me.

I have found great diversity of opinion and much bitterness of feeling among the people of this region. They are apparently upon the verge of civil war. A few bad men have done much mischief by stirring up rebellion among the people, and representing to them the weakness of the State, and its inability or indisposition to protect them, the power of the Government at Washington, and their willingness to give any aid required to resist the State authorities. I am too credibly informed to entertain doubt that they have been and will be supplied with the means of resistance. They and their accomplices have also threatened the property and persons of law-abiding citizens with fire and the sword. Their efforts to intimidate have had their effect, both to dishearten one party and encourage the other. Many good citizens have been dispirited, while traitors have seized the guns and ammunition of the State, to be used against its authority. Arms in the hands of disbanded volunteer companies have been retained for the same avowed purpose. The force in this section will need the best rifles. Those at Harper’s Ferry, which were injured by the fire, if fitted up, will do very well, as there will not be the same use for the bayonet in these hills as elsewhere, and the movements should be of light infantry and rifle, although the bayonet, of course, would be desirable.

I have the honor to be, yours, very respectfully,

GEORGE A. PORTERFIELD, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers.

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HDQRS. MARYLAND VOLS. SERVING IN VIRGINIA, May 17, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: Pursuant to instructions from Colonel Jackson, based upon a letter to me from Colonel French, aide-de-camp to his excellency Governor Letcher, I have this day assumed command of the Maryland volunteers in this State. Numbers of the men, and especially a large number of the most valuable of the officers, have gone to Richmond and other points in Virginia. As it is very desirable that all the Maryland men should be together, I respectfully request an order to be issued for them to report here, or at such other point as the General-in-Chief may designate. I can control about three thousand two hundred of active and generally well-drilled men from Baltimore and vicinity. Until better arms can be procured, I shall proceed to arm them with the flint lock muskets issued to Mr. T. Parkin Scott, of Baltimore, by Governor Letcher.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

F. J. THOMAS, Colonel, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

There are some of the Maryland volunteers who object to serving under Colonel Thomas, and, in order to secure their services, I would suggest that they be mustered into the service of the Southern Confederacy, and that none, except those who muster into the service of Virginia be placed under the command of Colonel Thomas.

T. J. JACKSON, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding at Harper’s Ferry.

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ABINGDON, VA., May 18, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Commander-in-Chief, &c.:

GENERAL: I respectfully inclose herewith a copy of the instructions under which I return to Virginia.* Debility compelled me to stop at this place. I expect to be in Lynchburg during Monday, and beg you to convey to me by telegraph any information you can communicate, which you think of interest to my command, especially in relation to supplies of ammunition and provisions. Should the contemplated conditions justify it, I request that the two officers named in the postscript (should it meet their own views) may be ordered to join me forthwith. The President intends to assemble an army near Harper’s Ferry. I suggested the proviso, because it seemed to me likely that Lieutenant-Colonel Pemberton might be at the head of the artillery of the State.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.

* See Cooper to Johnston, May 15. 1861, p. 844.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 19, 1861.

Col. GEORGE A. PORTERFIELD, Commanding, &c., Grafton, Taylor County, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 16th instant is at hand. One thousand muskets and rifles and some ammunition have been sent from Staunton {p.857} to Major Goff and Lieutenant Chenoweth at Beverly, for the use of the troops under your command. Several hundred arms have also been sent, for the use of your command, to Colonel Jackson, at Harper’s Ferry. Several companies have been directed to go with the arms from Staunton to Beverly, and to gather strength as they passed along. It is hoped that a considerable force has, by this means, been gathered together, which will be increased by the arrangements which you have made.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 19, 1861.

JOHN T. SEAWELL, Esq., Gloucester Court-House, Va.:

SIR: Your letter of the 15th instant is in hand. The engineers who examined York River considered Gloucester Point the lowest available position for a battery for the defense of the entrance of that river. It is difficult to procure men enough to man the battery already erected, and, by increasing posts, this difficulty would be enhanced.

Colonel Taliaferro has been previously directed to muster the troops from the county of King and Queen into the service of the State, and to form a regiment at Gloucester Point of the troops from the three counties of Gloucester, Matthews, and King and Queen. It is hoped that sufficient troops from those counties will be obtained for the defense of their homes.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 19, 1861.

Col. WILLIAM B. TALIAFERRO, Commanding, &c., Gloucester Point, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 14th instant is in hand. I regret to learn that your force is so small, and request you to use every exertion to increase it. Under the authority of the governor, by his proclamation of the 3d instant, you are authorized to extend your call for volunteers to the county of Matthews. It is hoped that you will collect troops enough from the counties of Gloucester, King and Queen, and Matthews to form at least a regiment, to which your force should be extended. It is not desired to take private houses, unless the exigencies of the service imperatively require it. A proper hut can be erected for a hospital. There are no military engineers available for laying off the rear defenses you desire, and it is hoped that the naval officers and others with you will be able to perform the duty. It is probable that the laboring force in the neighborhood will be sufficient to perform the work required on these lines of defense. Blank forms, &c., have been directed to be forwarded to you from the Quartermaster and Commissary Departments.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 19, 1861.

Lieut. Col. GEORGE H. TERRETT, Commanding at Alexandria, Va.:

COLONEL Major-General Lee instructs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of May 16.* It is very important to secure the rolling stock of the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad, but General Lee thinks it would be quite as much exposed to seizure by the enemy at any point on that road near Alexandria as in the town itself. If taken up that road for safety, it should be taken to Leesburg or its vicinity. General Lee thinks it would be better (if practicable) to obtain the co-operation of the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire and the Alexandria and Orange Railroad Companies in the construction of a temporary track connecting the two roads, to run the cars of the Loudoun and Hampshire Road out on the track of the Orange and Alexandria Road at night, as a precautionary measure.

I am, &c.,

JNO. A. WASHINGTON, Aide-de-Camp.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES Richmond, Va., May 20, 1861.

Col. C. DIMMOCK, Ordnance Department:

COLONEL: Major-General Lee requests that you will send to Col. B. S. Ewell, at Williamsburg, four hundred original percussion muskets and five thousand rounds of ammunition. They are to be sent by the steamer to King’s Mill wharf.

Very respectfully, &c.,

JNO. M. BROOKE, Virginia Navy and Acting Aide-de-Camp, &c.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 20, 1861.

Col. J. A. EARLY, Lynchburg, Va.:

SIR: In reply to your letters of the 16th and 17th instants,** the commanding-general now instructs me to say that he has this day ordered the Ordnance Department to forward to your address one thousand original percussion muskets, one thousand altered, and one thousand flint locks, and sixty thousand rounds of ammunition, to be issued by you to such companies of Virginia volunteers without arms as may be mustered in at Lynchburg, or arrive there already mustered in. The ten companies which you have reported may be organized into a regiment, to the command of which you may assign Colonel Radford, if they are the companies raised by him and reported to the governor. If they be not, you may assign Colonel Radford, or any other colonel, and field officers to them as may be deemed best, observing the rule as far as practicable to associate together companies and field officers from the same region of country. As soon as this regiment is organized and {p.859} armed, order it to report to the commanding officer at Culpeper Court-House. In regard to staff officers of experience, the general regrets to inform you that there are none to be had at present, and hopes that you will be able to instruct those you already have until they shall become useful.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

** Letter of 17th not found.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 20, 1861.

Lieut. Col. B. S. EWELL, Commanding, &c., Williamsburg, Va.:

COLONEL: I have received your letter of the 16th instant, in relation to your visit to Hampton, for the purpose of calling into the service of the State the volunteers from that region. Your report, in reference to affairs at Fort Monroe, is satisfactory, and it is hoped your arrangements for procuring information will be sufficient to secure intelligence of what transpires.

You will give orders to Major Cary, commanding the camp of instruction and observation, to attend rigidly to the instruction and discipline of the troops, to keep a strict watch on all military movements, and to keep you advised. He will endeavor to quiet the apprehension of the citizens, act strictly on the defensive, and be ready at all times to take the field, under such orders as he may receive from you. Four hundred percussion muskets, with a supply of ammunition, have been ordered to King’s Mill for you.

The battery at Yorktown, with those of Gloucester Point and West Point, is under the general charge of Captain Whittle, of the Navy. Major Montague is in command of the troops stationed there for their protection, &c. The troops and operations below Yorktown are under your control and direction. There are no cadets available for duty with you. It is hoped that some young officers, acquainted with military instruction, may be sent you. The general decides, as you will perceive by the inclosed paper, that no question of rank can arise between yourself and Colonel Mallory, who is not on service. You are in command of the Sixty-eighth and One Hundred and fifteenth Regiments of Militia, and invested with authority to call out such portions of those regiments as you may judge necessary to support the volunteer force.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 20, 1861.

Col. WM. B. TALIAFERRO, Commanding, &c., Gloucester Point, Va.:

COLONEL: As I see, from your letter of the 19th instant, that no increase to your force has been received, and, as I desire it to be augmented to a regiment of infantry, in addition to the cavalry and artillery now in service I have directed Capt. Thomas L. Preston to repair to Gloucester Point, with a view of aiding you in calling the volunteers into the service of the State from the counties of King and {p.860} Queen, Gloucester and Matthews. You are desired to send on this duty also Maj. P. R. Page, who will be accompanied by Captain Preston, and who will muster the troops into service that offer. Such arms, &c., as may be required for the troops at your post will be furnished on your requisition.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 21, 1861.

Col. J. A. EARLY, Commanding, &c., Lynchburg, Va.:

SIR: As fast as you issue arms and ammunition to the companies mustered in at Lynchburg by Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne, you are requested to send forward to Culpeper Court-House a sufficient number to form three regiments.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 21, 1861.

Hon. JAMES M. MASON, Winchester, Va.:

SIR: I have been gratified at the reception of your letter of the 15th instant, giving an account of your visit to Harper’s Ferry. I had hoped that the Maryland people would relieve us of the necessity of occupying the Maryland Heights. Colonel Jackson was directed to give to their occupation the appearance of its being done by the people of that State, and not to take possession himself till necessary; but the time has been left to his discretion which I am sure will be wisely exercised. There is no doubt, under the circumstances, of our right to occupy these heights.

Measures have been taken, more than three weeks ago, for securing the control of both branches of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and for throwing a force into the disaffected region of the State; to carry out which Major Loring has been sent to Wheeling to protect the terminus of the main road, and Colonel Porterfield has been sent to Grafton, with instructions to concentrate there three regiments, at Parkersburg one regiment, and at Moundsville one regiment. These measures having in part failed, several companies have been sent from Staunton to Beverly, with instructions to gather strength as they passed through the country for Colonel Porterfield’s command. By these means it is hoped that a considerable force has been concentrated at Grafton by this time, and loyalty in some degree engendered in the disaffected region of which you speak.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 21, 1861.

Lieut. Col. E. K. SMITH, C. S. A., Lynchburg, Va.:

SIR: The commanding general has been informed that one thousand rifles are on their way to Lynchburg from Montgomery for the Tennessee {p.861} troops. As soon as they arrive he desires that they be forwarded to this place, where they will be issued to the troops for whom they are intended.

I am,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HARPER’S FERRY, VA., May 21, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: The force now assembled at this place and its outposts consists of the First, Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Virginia Regiments; the Fourth Regiment from Alabama; two regiments from Mississippi; five companies of Virginia Artillery; eight companies of Virginia Cavalry; four companies of Kentucky Infantry, and some small detachments, amounting to seven thousand seven hundred men, of whom it may be said that seven thousand are available for active service in the field, well armed. On Sunday, the 19th, I inspected the Alabama regiment and the Third and Fourth Virginia. Yesterday it rained so continuously that nothing could be done. In the evening I visited the position opposite the Point of Rocks, distant twelve miles from this point, where Captain Ashby, of the Virginia cavalry, an excellent officer, is stationed, with two companies of cavalry, six pieces of light artillery, and a company of riflemen, together with some men from Maryland, only a part of whom are armed. His cavalry is employed in active reconnaissance of the surrounding country, and his artillery has complete command of the bridge crossing the Potomac, the piers of which are mined, and can be instantly destroyed, in case of necessity; in addition to which, he holds possession of the road at the Point of Rocks in such manner as to prevent the passage of a train.

I have not yet visited the Maryland Heights, where redoubts are now going up; but, from frequent conversations which I have had with Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan, the officer in charge of the work, I am convinced that but little more is necessary to render that part of the ground quite secure. Of this, however, and other subjects, I shall be able to give more definite information in a more detailed report.

The Maryland Heights being out of the question, the most probable line of approach would be by Hagerstown and Shepherdstown, making the attack from the northwest. But the precautions of Colonel Jackson have rendered such an approach a matter of great risk. At Shepherdstown we have the bridge, and the conformation of the ground is, I understand, all in favor of the resisting force. The troops here are all raw and inexperienced-wanting even in the first elements of the school of the soldier-and there is a great scarcity of proper instructors. Many of the captains are singularly ignorant of their duties. Guard duty is very loosely done; and, indeed, there is apparent on every side the mere elements of men and arms, without the discipline and organization of an army. There is a sad deficiency in clothing and in camp and garrison equipage; and I fear that the exposure to which the troops have recently been subjected in the cold, rainy weather will swell the list of sick, already large. To make up, however, for this loose state of things, so striking to the professional eye, it must not be forgotten that a fierce spirit animates those rough-looking men; and, if called upon, even now, to meet their enemy, I have no fear of the result of battle. There is a determination abroad among men {p.862} who have collected from far and near to give a summary chastisement to any force which may have the hardihood to invade the soil of Virginia. This spirit is invincible.

This afternoon I shall endeavor to reach the Maryland Heights. Tomorrow I shall finish my inspection of the troops, and will muster into the service of the Confederate States nine companies of Maryland volunteers, who are exiled from their State, and are here drawing rations, and are anxious to serve for the war.

On Friday or Saturday I will return to Richmond, visiting General Cocke’s command en route, and will then submit my report in full to Major General Lee.

I have not asked Colonel Jackson his opinion on the subject, but my own is that there is force enough here to hold this place against any attack which, under the existing state of affairs, may be contemplated.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. DEAS, Lieutenant-Colonel and Inspector-General, C. S. Army.

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WILLIAMSBURG, VA., May 21, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

SIR: The receipt of your communication of the 20th instant is hereby respectfully acknowledged. In a letter received to-day from Major Cary, there is the following: “It is evidently the purpose of Colonel Dimick to take possession of a portion of Virginia soil.” I think so too, if his garrison requires more space. I have prohibited a useless and hopeless resistance to this until Colonel Dimick is at least out of the range of the Old Point guns with the force that may accompany him. It is difficult to manage Hampton. The people are excitable and brave even to rashness, and are unwilling to seem to give way. It (Hampton) might, on the approach in force of the Federal troops, be evacuated by the military, and the remaining citizens ought to make terms, unless, indeed, it is made a second Saragossa. I doubt if, from the nature of the buildings, this could be done. For the adjutant of the, battalion here, I wish to appoint Prof. B. Taliaferro. He has not much military experience, but has great intelligence, is firm and cool, has industry and activity, and is to be depended upon. I prefer him to any one I know here, and ask authority to appoint him from the ranks, or else to have him elected a supernumerary officer of a volunteer company, that I may appoint him. There are no field pieces here yet. Excuse me for calling your special attention to this fact. Before knowing your intention to order troops to Yorktown, with Captain Meade’s assistance I adopted a line of defense on the land side, covering the road from Old Point, the Poquosin River, and, in fact, from every landing on the York River below Yorktown. The plan was to repair the redoubt built by the British for the defense of this or these roads, and to erect another small redoubt; both to be defended with field pieces. The two hundred and forty men now in Yorktown, for the defense of the battery of two guns, could not hold the place against a field battery, muskets not being able to cope in an open country with a well-appointed battery. This fact, or advice, is not stated to inform you, but as a mode of making known the necessities of the force at Yorktown. Major Montague and myself are on the most friendly terms, and, if you approve of it, I am perfectly willing to aid him in the repairing and {p.863} construction of the field works in question or to point out the plan. It is beyond doubt that the land approach to Yorktown is in greater need of protection than the water. If the defense of Yorktown had not been within my control, as it was before Major Montague was sent there, it would not be proper for me to write of it as I have done. Under the circumstances there is, I hope, no impropriety in addressing you on the subject.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

BENJ. S. EWELL, Lieutenant-Colonel, Virginia Volunteers.

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NORFOLK, VA., May 21, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

Troops in large numbers are arriving at Fort Monroe. In order to man and properly protect the batteries, so many men are required, and so many points of attack are threatened, that I feel it my duty to call at once for an additional force of not less than four thousand men. I am informed that the governor of North Carolina would send me a large force. Can I call on him?

WALTER GWYNN.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 21, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

GENERAL: Since this place has been strengthened by additional troops and artillery, so as to give confidence to our people, there has been a manifest improvement in public sentiment in this county; but I regret to say that in Berkeley things are growing worse, and that the threats from Union men are calculated to curb the expression of Southern feeling. While I have been unwilling to diminish the force here, yet, for the purpose of checking the disloyalty there, I have ordered the regiment from Jefferson opposite to Williamsport. You speak of concern at the want of alacrity on the part of companies west of here. This is partly due to their unarmed condition and want of a secure place of rendezvous. If no better plan is practicable, I would suggest that a force destined for the northwest be assembled, ostensibly for the defense of this part of the State, at Winchester, or some point near here, and that the moment that the governor’s proclamation announces the ratification by the people of the ordinance of secession, such troops be put in the cars, as though they were coming to this place, but that they be immediately thrown into the northwest, and at once crush out opposition. This force need remain there only for a short time, until the local ones could be armed. You will pardon me for urging promptness in what is to be done for that section of the State. Any want of this may be disastrous.

I send herewith a letter from Captain Shriver, of Wheeling, who has been on a visit here. I wrote to Colonel Garnett that Colonel Huger had gone on to Richmond, for the purpose of procuring whatever may be necessary for the efficiency of the heavy batteries; but I regret to learn that he has been delayed by sickness on his way. Should he not reach Richmond before this letter, please forward a large supply of ammunition for ten 24-pounder guns, if it can be spared. Should Colonel {p.864} Huger be prevented from reaching Richmond soon, I hope you will, if available, send me a practical ordnance officer. I have been depending on Colonel Huger for mounting and rendering efficient the heavy guns, with the exception of those intrusted to Lieutenant Fauntleroy.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant

T. J. JACKSON, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding Harper’s Ferry, Va.

P. S.-I have about ninety thousand percussion caps.

[Inclosure.]

HARPER’S FERRY, VA., May 19, 1861.

Colonel JACKSON, Commandant, Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

At this time there is between three and four hundred Federal troops stationed upon the fair grounds on Wheeling Island, Ohio County, Virginia. They have been regularly sworn into the service of the U. S. Government by Colonel Oakes, who has been in the city of Wheeling for some time past expressly for that purpose. These troops have been furnished with arms by the U. S. Government at the request of citizens of the counties of Hancock, Brooke, Ohio, and Marshall, for the express purpose of resisting the authorities of the State of Virginia. At this time A. W. Campbell, of the city of Wheeling, by a published authority from Governor Dennison, of Ohio, will not permit citizens of Wheeling to ship provisions in any quantities over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad.

Yours, truly,

DAN. M. SHRIVER.

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ENGINEER’S OFFICE, Richmond, Va., May 21, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

SIR: The examinations preparatory to commencing work for the defense of this city are far enough advanced to enable me to select the sites for two redoubts on the cordon it is proposed to occupy. The first will be on the eastern side of Marion Hill, commanding the road leading up the river, and the country generally to the eastward; the second will be on high ground, near Tuder & Co.’s nursery, and quite near to the ravine of Gillies Creek. It is proposed to make the redoubts of sufficient capacity to contain garrisons of six hundred men. For a more perfect defense of the tongue of land between James River and Gillies Creek some two or three small redoubts are needed, in consequence of the irregularities of the ground, which is much cut by abrupt ravines. I do not propose commencing them immediately. The two principal redoubts may be ready for a laboring force on Thursday next, if you approve the foregoing suggestion. On the accompanying tracing the locations are indicated by the letter R in red. As soon as the lines of the works are traced on the ground, a requisition will be made for the ordnance required for arming them. The topographical examination between Gillies and Shockoe Creeks is not sufficiently advanced for continuing the cordon around that section, but it is believed that works can now be laid out, so as to give full employment to all the available labor at the disposal of the city authorities.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ANDREW TALCOTT, Engineer.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 95.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 21, 1861.

...

II. Col. John B. Magruder, of the Provisional Army of Virginia, is placed in command of the troops and military operations on the line to Hampton. He will establish his headquarters at Yorktown, take measures for the safety of the batteries at Jamestown Island and on York River, and urge forward the construction of the defenses between the heads of College and Queen Creeks, in advance of Williamsburg. The orders heretofore given to Lieut. Col. B. S. Ewell, Virginia volunteers, are referred to him for execution. Lieutenant-Colonel Ewell, with the troops under his command, will be stationed at the defenses in front of Williamsburg, and Major Cary on or near the Southwest Branch of the Back River, where it is crossed by the main road from Hampton. Authentic information of what occurs at Fort Monroe, and the operations of the U. S. forces, if important, will be forwarded to headquarters. Col. L. G. De Russy, with his regiment of Louisiana volunteers Col. D. H. Hill, with his regiment of North Carolina volunteers, and Col. T. P. August, with his regiment of Virginia volunteers, will report to Colonel Magruder for service under his command.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 22, 1861.

Brig. Gen. M. L. BONHAM, C. S. A.:

GENERAL: In the execution of the orders with which you have been furnished, relative to the command of the Alexandria line of operations, I need not call the attention of one as experienced as yourself to the necessity of preventing the troops from all interference with the rights and property of the citizens of the State, and of enforcing rigid discipline and obedience to orders. But it is proper for me to state to you that the policy of the State at present is strictly defensive. No attack, or provocation for attack will therefore be given, but every attack resisted to the extent of your means. Great reliance is placed on your discretion and judgment in the application of your force, and I must urge upon you the importance of organizing and instructing the troops as rapidly as possible and preparing them for active service. For this purpose it will be necessary to post them where their services may be needed and where they can be concentrated at the points threatened. The Manassas Junction is a very important point on your line, as it commands the communication with Harper’s Ferry, and must be firmly held. Intrenchments at that point would add to its security, and, in connection with its defense, you must watch the approaches from either flank, particularly towards Occoquan. Alexandria in its front will, of course, claim your attention as the first point of attack, and, as soon as your force is sufficient, in your opinion, to resist successfully its occupation, you will so dispose it as to effect this object, if possible, without appearing to threaten Washington City. The navigation of the Potomac being closed to us, and the U. S. armed vessels being able to take a position in front of the town, you will perceive the hazard of its destruction, unless your measures are such as to prevent it. This subject, {p.866} being one of great delicacy, is left to your judgment. The railroad communications must be secured, however, and their use by the enemy prevented. In the absence of tents or vacant houses, you will have to erect temporary plank sheds for the protection of your men.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 22, 1861-9 a. m.

General GWYNN:

Call on the governor of North Carolina for the force you require to the full extent. Two hundred laborers are on the way to you.

R. E. LEE.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES Richmond, Va., May 22, 1861.

Col. GEORGE H. TERRETT, Commanding, &c., Alexandria, Va.:

COLONEL: Unless you can devise some better plan for securing the rolling stock of the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad than that suggested to you in my letter of the 19th instant, I desire you to adopt it, and give directions that a track be laid from the depot of the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad to the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, in Union street, or some other more convenient point, by which this rolling stock can be carried to a place of safety on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad when not wanted for use on its proper road, and confer with presidents and directors of said roads as to perfecting this connection, which will not only be useful for the above purpose, but afford convenient transportation from one road to the other.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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GLOUCESTER POINT, VA., May 22, 1861.

General R. E. LEE, Headquarters, Virginia Forces, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: On my arrival here I presented your letter to Colonel Taliaferro, and soon had a conference upon the object of my visit. This place is literally without defense against a land attack. A force of five hundred men, landed within a day’s march, with even a feint by water, could take, by prompt movements, every gun. Mr. Clarke, the engineer here, is appointed by Colonel Talcott, and does not consider himself under the command of Colonel Taliaferro. This want of concert prevents unity of action and concert of measures. I could not therefore, without authority from you, urge the citizens to send laborers here to be directed by Mr. Clarke. His time and attention are much required by the works now in progress. I leave at once for Matthews County, in company with Major Page, where one or two companies are reported as organized.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

THOS. L. PRESTON.

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HEADQUARTERS, Fredericksburg, Va., May 22, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: I have the honor to state, for the information of the commanding general, that I have not been able to push the organization of volunteer companies forward with sufficient rapidity to make up a force of sufficient strength (under discipline) for our sole reliance, in the event of an attack on our Potomac coast, within a brief period of time.

I am under the necessity of manning the batteries by companies of volunteers, in consequence of the ineffectual efforts of the naval officers to enroll men for that service; and, indeed, I have been obliged to perform work on those batteries by detail for the want of laborers. It is to be observed that Captain Walker’s battery has not, therefore, thus far (in spite of the united efforts of the captain and myself), been put in readiness for the field, being deficient in men and equipments, and this is the only field battery in the department.

The above-noted employments, in connection with the necessity of covering the batteries and the avenues of approach to this city, have absorbed my volunteer force to such an extent that, if attacked by the enemy in great numbers, re-enforcements will be necessary; say at least one thousand well-disciplined volunteers and a field battery.

If occasion demands, I propose telegraphing to you for such force (well supplied with ammunition) the moment it is apparent that it will be needed, to repel actual invasion, with the confident hope that it will be sent.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL RUGGLES, Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 109.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 23, 1861.

I. Brig. Gen. Benjamin Huger, of the volunteer forces of Virginia, is assigned to the command of the troops in and about Norfolk and its dependencies, and will relieve Brig. Gen. Walter Gwynn.

II. Brigadier-General Gwynn, after turning over his command and giving all information that may be useful to his successor, will report in person to the commanding general of the Virginia forces at Richmond.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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Report of Inspection made at Harper’s Ferry, Va., by Lieut. Cot. George Deas, Inspector-General C. S. Army.

MAY 23, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General, &c., Richmond, Va.:

The force at this time assembled at Harper’s Ferry and its outposts consists of five regiments from Virginia, two regiments from Mississippi, one regiment from Alabama, eight companies of Virginia cavalry, one battalion from Maryland, one battalion from Kentucky, five companies {p.868} of artillery, and a naval battery, amounting, in the aggregate, to about eight thousand men, of whom about seven thousand three hundred are able to go into combat, well armed. The five regiments of infantry from Virginia have good arms, but are very deficient in cartridge-boxes, belts, and ball-screws. The Alabama regiment is well appointed, has brought its tents and camp equipage, and is well clothed. Arms in good order. The two regiments from Mississippi have with them their tents and camp equipage, but are not satisfied with their arms, which are chiefly of the old flint-lock musket altered into percussion. As usual with troops of this description, they all want rifles. They were informed that, for the present, they must rest contented with such arms as it was in the power of the Government to give them. One of these regiments (the Eleventh), under the command of Colonel Moore, is very superior to the other (the Second), under Colonel Falkner. The latter is badly clothed and very careless in its appointments. The officers are entirely without military knowledge of any description, and the men have a slovenly and unsoldier-like appearance. The other regiment seems to take much pride in its appearance, and is endeavoring to improve itself by military exercises. All the infantry regiments are drilled daily in the school of the soldier and company, and valuable assistance in this respect is received from the young men who have been instructed at the military school at Lexington. But there is no ground in the immediate vicinity upon which the maneuvers of a large battalion can take place, consequently there is a lamentable want of knowledge of the first principles of formation into line and the changes of front and breaking into column. There are no regular regimental parades established, upon which to form quickly, in case of alarm. The Virginia regiments are only partially supplied with tents, and the main body of them are quartered in houses in the towns of Harper’s Ferry and Bolivar. Crowded together, as they necessarily are, I fear that utter confusion must be the consequence of any sudden movement. I speak, of course, only of the present. Undoubtedly a proper course of instruction must produce its good effects, and it is to be hoped that a steady improvement will take place. The attention of General Johnston has been called to these important points.

The artillery companies are drilled in the school of the soldier, without arms. There are no artillery horses, and therefore there is no such thing on the ground as light artillery. There are but four light pieces with Captain Pendleton’s company at Bolivar, at which the men are instructed in the manual of the piece. There are six guns with Captain Imboden’s company at the Point of Rocks. At this place also Captain Ashby is stationed, with two companies of cavalry and two hundred infantry, his total force amounting to four hundred men, one hundred and thirty-three horses, and six guns. His two positions are immediately at the bridge crossing the Potomac from the Point of Rocks and at the Potomac Forge half a mile distant. His cavalry covers the country for twenty miles to his rear, while his attention is immediately given to the line of railroad from Baltimore, which passes the Point of Rocks on the Maryland side. I am quite confident that, with the vigilance which is exercised by Captain Ashby, no enemy can pass the point which he is directed to observe. Should he be assailed from his rear, say by way of Leesburg, he could easily cross the bridge and retreat upon Harper’s Ferry; and in doing so destroy the bridge, the piers of which are already mined for such a contingency.

The naval batteries, under Lieutenant Fauntleroy, are placed on the northern and southern salients of the village of Harper’s Ferry, and {p.869} envelope with their fire the whole of the town of Bolivar and the approaches by the immediate banks of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. There are at this time but two 32-pounders in position in each battery on plain platforms, and the guns on ship’s carriages. It is intended to increase the number of guns in each battery to six. These batteries would be very formidable in resisting an attack upon the town of Harper’s Ferry.

The cavalry, under Lieut. Col. J. E. B. Stuart, is in very good condition, and quite effective. Their arms are a small-sized revolver and a saber; no carbines. The horses are good, and all the men ride well. They are made exceedingly useful in the duties of scouts and vedettes, covering a considerable extent of country to the front.

The hospital department is very deficient in every respect. There are a few beds in the general hospital, but there is no provision whatever made for the care of wounded men, in the event of an engagement taking place. Requisitions for medicines and for hospital stores have been made on the surgeon-general at Richmond, and he is now earnestly endeavoring to supply the wants of this department at Harper’s Ferry. The general state of health in the regiments was good, and there was no epidemic of any kind. Exposure to many cold, rainy nights had caused some severe colds among the men from the extreme South, and there were some cases of the ordinary camp diseases, but nothing very serious.

The clothing of the troops is not abundant, and, in the regiment from Mississippi, under Colonel Falkner, almost every necessary is wanting. They seem to have come away from home without making proper preparations in this respect, and, indeed, it would seem that they expected to receive on their arrival in Virginia all the appointments of a soldier. Fortunately the approach of warm weather will obviate the necessity of a full supply of clothing for these men; otherwise they could not enter upon a campaign in their present condition. I recommend an early attention on the part of the proper officers to this important subject of clothing.

In regard to camp and garrison equipage, so much is required that I do not consider it necessary to enter into particulars. From what I can learn of the deficiency of such articles in the adjacent country and even in Richmond, it will be necessary for the Quartermaster’s Department to cause everything of the nature referred to to be made, and this should be done at once. The supplies of subsistence are abundant, except in the item of bacon. There is plenty of beef, and a large quantity of flour on hand, enough to last many months. In view of the defense of the immediate position at Harper’s Ferry, there is now there an ample force for that purpose. The enemy can make no successful attack, either by the way of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad or by the Maryland Heights, both of which approaches can easily be defended. The principal direction by which an attacking force would move would be by crossing the Potomac from eight to fifteen miles above by fords which are known to be practicable, and then, moving circuitously, come in by the roads leading to the northwestern approach to the Ferry. The troops moving out could meet the enemy in several good positions, and, if forced back by superior numbers, could yet take up their lines on the edge of the town, and, with the assistance of the artillery, could defy and beat back five times their numbers with perfect ease.

Under the existing state of affairs, that is, with the means at hand, for offensive operations coming from Baltimore or Pennsylvania, Harper’s Ferry may be looked upon as perfectly safe. But if the war is to {p.870} assume much larger proportions, it might be possible for the enemy to shut up our force now assembled there, and, with superior numbers, pass on with a heavy force and occupy the valleys beyond, in Western Virginia. If this should ever be suspected to be the plans of the enemy, of what use would it be to hold on to Harper’s Ferry? In such a state of affairs, it would be much better to abandon the Ferry altogether, remove the machinery, destroy the buildings, blow up the bridge, and move out into the valleys, and thus maneuver against the advancing enemy; in addition to which a force should be sent at once up the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to blow up the tunnels, and burn the bridges on Cheat River, and otherwise cause such damage to the road as to render impossible the passage of a force from Wheeling or Parkersburg.

I inclose a small sketch of the position at Harper’s Ferry, the various roads in the vicinity being marked by red lines.

The major-general commanding will understand that a report of this nature, being that of raw volunteers, just arrived (from long distances in several cases), is not of so minute a character as it would be with troops of better training and of more experience in war.

Respectfully submitted.

GEO. DEAS, Lieut. Col., and Insp. Gen. C. S. Army.

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WILLIAMSBURG, VA., May 24, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Commanding Virginia Forces:

SIR: The inclosed letter was received by me this morning from Major Cary. It seemed to be so important that I immediately started for this place. There has been a large accession of force at Old Point. (For the details see the inclosed report of Major Cary.)* Finding, on my arrival here, that Major Cary had gone to Old Point to see General Butler, and considering it better for me to be present at the interview, I followed, and was, after getting in proper form within the pickets of the Federal troops, unceremoniously dealt with; was taken prisoner and marched into the fort. By the kindness of Colonel Dimick a release was at once given, and I returned directly to Williamsburg. I thought it best to order the destruction of the bridge across Hampton Creek. I have given such general directions in other respects as conform to your orders.

Respectfully,

BENJ. S. EWELL, Lieutenant-Colonel, Virginia Volunteers.

* See p. 35.

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MAY 24, 1861-7.15 p. m.

[Col. J. B. MAGRUDER:]

SIR: I regret to inform you that Lieutenant-Colonel Ewell was taken prisoner at Fort Monroe; under what plea I pave not been able to understand. I had requested an interview with Major-General Butler (now in command) this morning, which was granted at 3.30 p. m. My main object was to ascertain how far he intended to take possession of Virginia soil, in order that I might act in such a manner as to avoid {p.871} collision between our scouts. I could only gather from him that it was “a military necessity” for him to occupy our land for an encampment, and that he could only say that, if he was not interfered with by bodies of armed troops, he would molest no one. He indicated his determination to take possession of anything which he might deem necessary for his use. In accordance with these principles he has taken three of Colonel Mallory’s negroes, which he has refused to give up on application. I dispatched to Colonel Ewell a detailed account of a reconnaissance which they made on yesterday to this place.* They marched a regiment of about eight hundred men, supported by a battery of six brass pieces, and perhaps a still further reserve. I presume Colonel Ewell has forwarded it to you. They are now encamping, or rather apparently selecting their ground, about three-fourths of one mile distant from this place. I demanded of General Butler that he should see into the reason of Colonel Ewell’s arrest, which he promised me, just as he left (when for the first time I heard of it), that the matter should be attended to. If he is not released in the morning I shall make a more formal demand under a flag of truce. As it will take my messenger nearly all night to reach the river connection in the morning, I must bring this to an abrupt close, craving your indulgence for its desultory character.

I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. B. CARY, Major Artillery, Virginia Volunteers.

P. S.-Lieutenant Cutshaw will give detailed information in regard to the invasion yesterday.

* See p. 35.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 24, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

COLONEL: I forward herewith copies of correspondence between General J. E. Johnston, of the C. S. Army, and myself. Major Whiting has taken charge of the defenses.

I am, colonel, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Col. Virginia Vols., Comdg. at Harper’s Ferry, Va.

[Inclosure No. 1.]

HARPER’S FERRY, VA., May 24, 1861.

Colonel JACKSON, Virginia Forces:

COLONEL: Will you oblige me by having the inclosed order copied and distributed to the different regiments?

Very respectfully,

J. E. JOHNSTON.

[Inclosure No. 2.]

ORDERS, No. -.]

HARPER’S FERRY, VA., May 24, 1861.

In obedience to the orders of the Secretary of War, the undersigned assumes the command of the troops at and in the vicinity of this place.

Maj. E. E. McLean, C. S. Army, will take the direction of the operations of the Quartermaster’s Department; Maj. W. H. C. Whiting those of the Engineer Corps.

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army. {p.872} [Inclosure No. 3.]

HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 24, 1861.

Brig. Gen. J. E. JOHNSTON, C. S. A.:

GENERAL: I have the honor of acknowledging the receipt of your note of this morning, requesting the publication of an order, as coming from you, assuming the command of this post, in obedience to the orders of the Secretary of War, and directing Maj. E. E. McLean, C. S. Army, to take the direction of the operations of the Quartermaster’s Department, and Maj. W. H. C. Whiting those of the Engineer Corps. Until I receive further instructions from Governor Letcher or General Lee, I do not feel at liberty to transfer my command to another, and must therefore decline publishing the order. Meanwhile I beg you to be assured that it will give me pleasure to afford to yourself and to the other officers named every facility in my power for obtaining appropriate information relating to the post and departments of the service connected with it.

I am, general, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Col. Virginia Vols., and Comdg. at Harper’s Ferry, Va.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES Richmond, Va., May 24, 1861.

Brig. Gen. M. L. BONHAM, Comdg. Manassas Junction, Va.:

GENERAL: Colonel Moore’s regiment (seven companies) of Virginia volunteers has been ordered to join you to-morrow, and an additional battery of artillery. If strong defensible positions can be found on Bull Run Creek, or in advance of it, it is advised that they be also occupied and strengthened; but the position of Manassas Junction, being of great importance to us, must be secured by all means in your power.*

...

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

* Matters of detail omitted.

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RICHMOND, VA., May 24, 1861.

General BONHAM, Manassas Junction, Va.:

Send an express to Colonel Hunton, at Leesburg, to destroy all the bridges of the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad as far down towards Alexandria as possible, and to keep you and General Johnston advised of the movements of the enemy towards Harper’s Ferry.

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Brigadier-General BONHAM, Commanding, &c., Manassas Junction, Va.:

SIR: Major Williamson, now on engineer duty on the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers, has been ordered by telegraph to report to you. {p.873} With his practical knowledge of engineering, and the assistance of Lieutenant-Colonels Ewell, Jordan, and Jones, all capable men, it is believed that you will be enabled to adopt judicious means of defense for your position. An additional regiment of infantry will be sent you tomorrow. Be pleased to make formal requisitions on the proper departments for whatever may be necessary for your command, and forward them to this office. As soon as practicable, the commanding general desires a statement of the circumstances under which Ball’s dragoons were captured, as mentioned in your telegraphic dispatch.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Col. C. DIMMOCK, Ordnance Department:

COLONEL: Send four hundred original percussion muskets, forty rounds of ammunition for each, and sixteen thousand caps to General Bonham, at Manassas Junction, as soon as possible.

By order:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant. General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 24, 1861.

Lieut. Col. JOHN MCCAUSLAND, Buffalo, Va.:

SIR: Your requisition for harness for a battery of artillery and for ammunition has been received. The Ordnance Department has been instructed, as far as practicable, to supply the ammunition, and to send it to the care of Maj. M. G. Harman, at Staunton, who has been instructed to adopt the safest and most expeditious means of sending it to you. You will confer with him by letter as to the best means of doing this. It is believed that suitable harness can be made or purchased in the valley. If good, strong wagon-harness can be made or purchased, you are authorized to direct the quartermaster to buy it for you. There is none to be had here immediately. You will report what can be done in this respect. Send a copy of this communication to Colonel Tompkins, commanding, &c.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 24, 1861.

Col. GEORGE A. PORTERFIELD, Commanding, &c., Grafton, Va.:

COLONEL: I have just received your letter of the 18th instant, and regret that you have been unsuccessful in organizing the companies of volunteers that you expected. By this time the companies from Staunton must have reached you; also one from Harper’s Ferry, and I hope that the true men of that region have been encouraged to come out into the service of the State. I will write to the commanding officer of {p.874} Harper’s Ferry to give you all aid in his power, and I hope you will spare no pains to preserve the integrity of the State, and to prevent the occupation of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad by its enemies. In answer to your inquiry as to the treatment of traitors, I cannot believe that any citizen of the State will betray its interests, and hope all will unite in supporting the policy she may adopt.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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FREDERICKSBURG, May 24, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

Request General Lee to send me one thousand well-disciplined volunteer infantry, and one battery of mounted artillery for field service. Reply by telegraph. Details will be given by mail. No enemy has landed in my department.

D. RUGGLES, Colonel.

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HEADQUARTERS, Fredericksburg, Va., May 24, 1861.

General R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: I have, the honor to state, in answer to the communication from the commanding general of the forces, dated the 13th instant, that I cannot spare the two companies from Richmond (Captains Wise’s and Cunningham’s), without irreparable injury to the service for some time to come. These companies, under the command of Colonel Cary, are now (in conjunction with other forces) covering the Potomac batteries and avenues of approach, becoming acquainted with the character of the district and its natural defenses, thus rendering their services indispensable.

I have also to state (on information) that the officers and men in said companies are anxious to remain here, to be incorporated with a regiment about being organized. Their return to Richmond, it is said, would give the greatest dissatisfaction, and very probably break up these fine companies.

The receipt this morning of private advices from Washington warrants the belief that the enemy contemplate striking a blow without much further delay. Under these circumstances, as I am not able to place a sufficient force for the protection of the upper border of Stafford County, from which, if a landing is once effected, a flank movement will endanger the efficiency of the Aquia Creek battery, and as the force for covering the battery on the Potomac Creek is not of sufficient strength to do full justice to the position, I respectfully recommend that one thousand well-disciplined volunteers be sent here, with a battery of four rifled or smooth-bore field guns for immediate service. With this re-enforcement I shall hope to prevent the enemy from effecting a landing or advancing before additional force may be concentrated against him.

I respectfully represent that a successful debarkation of the enemy on this part of the Potomac coast would in all probability drive a large portion of the population from between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, possessing themselves of a large amount of supplies, (necessary for the support of the people and our forces), and thus carry {p.875} demoralization and alarm throughout the State, from the fact that a successful invasion of our soil had been effected. The position of the enemy once attained between the Potomac and the Rappahannock Rivers, a fertile region, filled with supplies and resources, would, from its natural advantages, become a most important possession, from which it would be difficult to dislodge him.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL RUGGLES, Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.

MAY 25TH.

P. S.-The possession of Alexandria by the enemy exposes the left flank of my line to his approach, and to protect which I am now making preparations.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Col. BENJ. S. EWELL, Commanding, &c., Williamsburg, Va.:

COLONEL: I am instructed by Major-General Lee to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 21st instant, and to inform you that he approves of your views respecting the defense of Hampton. Adjutants of battalions or regiments must be appointed from the lieutenants belonging to the battalion or regiment. They cannot be taken from the ranks. If Mr. Taliaferro is elected a lieutenant of one of the companies under your command General Lee will request the governor to commission him, and you can then appoint him your adjutant. Field pieces have been sent to Colonel Magruder at Yorktown. General Lee has not heard whether the lines are begun at Williamsburg. Will you please to inform him if they are under way and what progress has been made in their construction? No time should be lost in completing these works. They are of great importance, and a large force should be employed on them. You are requested to inform him what force you have working on these lines, and, if insufficient, whether you cannot increase it from the neighboring country. Colonel Magruder has been written to upon this subject.

I am, &c.,

JNO. A. WASHINGTON, Aide-de-Camp, &c.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

General BENJ. HUGER, Comdg. Virginia Forces, Norfolk, Va.:

GENERAL: I wish to call your attention to the condition of Craney Island. It is the first point that will arrest the passage of a vessel to Norfolk; it is the most exposed and the least prepared for defense. I cannot urge upon you too strongly the necessity of putting it in good condition. More troops should be ordered there, and laborers, if practicable. If laborers cannot be obtained, the troops must work at the trenches at that point and all others within your lines of defense. A North Carolina regiment will leave here to-morrow for your post.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 24th instant* has just been received. I understand there is no cavalry at Fort Monroe, no baggage wagons, and but one company of light artillery. I do not think an immediate movement by land may be expected, but I wish you to be prepared for any emergency. According to reports in this office, there must be three companies of cavalry under your command. I will order to you five more. We have no wagons yet for service with troops in the field. It is supposed that you will find no difficulty in procuring wagons and teams in the neighborhood, as many persons in that section of the country engaged in the wood trade, which is now suspended, must have them on hand. You will please see what arrangements you can make for hiring or purchasing the same through your quartermaster, and let him make a report to the chief quartermaster at this place.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

* See p. 36.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:

COLONEL: Two 12-pounder brass pieces have been directed to be sent you at Yorktown, which may be applied to the land defenses either below Yorktown or Williamsburg, as you may deem best. Two 8-inch columbiads are also sent to you at Yorktown, and, if not wanted for the water defense, they had better be applied to the land either there or at Williamsburg. I again urge upon you the necessity of the line of defenses between the heads of Queen and College Creeks, about which Colonel Ewell his already received instructions. Colonel Ewell had better be directed to apply all the force he can procure to the erection of those lines. Captains Rives and Meade, of the Engineer Corps, are on duty in the peninsula, and subject to your orders. Should the lines below Williamsburg not have been surveyed and laid out, they had better be put at it directly.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Col. WM. B. TALIAFERRO, Commanding Gloucester Point, Va.:

COLONEL: Colonel Talcott will direct Captain Smith, of the Engineer Corps, now at West Point, to take charge of the construction of the battery at Gloucester Point. He will be subject to your orders for the general purposes of defense, but will conform to the instructions of Colonel Talcott as regards the plans and details of the work. You are desired to urge forward the completion of all the batteries, both for the water and land defense, for which purpose it will be desirable for you {p.877} to collect as large a force of laborers as you can. It is hoped that, by the united exertions of yourself and Captain Preston, more troops shall be collected from the counties of Matthews, Gloucester, and King and Queen. We have no troops here to send you.

I am, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 25, 1861.

Hon. L POPE WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:

SIR: Being very much embarrassed in furnishing the troops which have been called into service by the State of Virginia with arms, ammunition, and the necessary accouterments, on account of the limited supply and the small size of our arsenal and workshops, I beg leave to suggest that the troops ordered to this State may come provided with arms, ammunition, cartridge-boxes, knapsacks, haversacks, and all other necessary equipments, and that their organization be as complete as practicable.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HARPER’S FERRY, VA., May 25, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

COLONEL: Subsequent to mailing to you yesterday the communication in which I refused to recognize General J. B. Johnston’s authority to assume command here, I was furnished with the following indorsement on an application:

Immediately on receiving this information I complied with General Johnston’s request, and published his order assuming command.

I am, colonel, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON, Colonel Virginia Volunteers.

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YORKTOWN, VA., May 25, 1861.

Maj. J. B. CARY, Commanding near Hampton:

SIR: I have not been able to see Colonel Ewell since my arrival here. We learn from Mr. White, a member of your troop, that you are probably at Back River, and that you have been joined by a company of rifles and one of artillery, the latter with two or three pieces. If so, you must be very careful not to be cut off by a larger party getting in your rear. It would be difficult for you to bring off your pieces if the enemy got in your rear. You will therefore keep mounted sentinels at night at or near Newport News wharf, on your right, and at all the proper points on your left; and should you discover a design to cut you off, you must withdraw in time to prevent it. It would be very desirable {p.878} to have the artillery drawn by horses or mules. Ordinary wagon harness will answer, and the people of the country ought to furnish the horses. If you cannot get the horses you will lose your pieces; if the enemy choose to send a force up James River much larger than yours. I therefore think that you had better send your artillery to Hood’s Mill, about ten miles from here. Place it strongly there, protected by your rifles, and keep your cavalry, as usual, in sight of Fort Monroe. In this way you would show front to the fort, and place your guns and rifles in safe connection with this point.

I have established an express to Richmond from here. Please send me your dispatches by one of your mounted men whenever you observe anything worth communicating, and I will forward it to General Lee by the special express. I will be down to see you as soon as I arrange affairs here.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER.

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YORKTOWN, VA., May 25, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: I found the battery of heavy guns progressing slowly. The time at which the negroes were promised to return to their masters having arrived, they were discharged by the engineer. I have ordered four hundred men of the command to be set to work to-morrow morning on this battery, and as soon as I can select the defensive positions towards the interior, which will be to-morrow morning, I shall commence the intrenchments there and prosecute them vigorously. Colonel Ewell has returned. I have not yet seen him.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER.

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HEADQUARTERS HAMPTON LINE, Yorktown, Va., May 25, 1861.

Col. T. P. AUGUST:

SIR: Colonel Magruder directs that you remain at Williamsburg until further orders, prepared to move at any moment with your regiment, with rations, &c., prepared. He also requests that yourself and Colonel Ewell come over and see him; also, that you send directly the horse, saddle, bridle, &c., that was sent down with your regiment, to be turned over to me for the use of the assistant adjutant-general’s department.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. A. THORNTON, First Lieutenant, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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FREDERICKSBURG, VA., May 25, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT:

I have just learned that Captain Lynch is about withdrawing two of the heavy guns from the Aquia Creek Battery, without substituting others, with the view of removing them to Potomac Creek Bridge. This change does not conform to my conviction as to the best use of these {p.879} guns. The Potomac Bridge can be turned in any direction, and I am preparing for its destruction when necessary. It is my hope to keep the enemy from Landing, and keep communication open with the land.

Please answer.

DANIEL RUGGLES, Colonel, Provisional Army.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 26, 1861.

Brig. Gen. M. L. BONHAM, Commanding, &c., Manassas Junction, Va.:

SIR: In reply to your inquiries of the 24th instant, I inclose a copy of Special Orders, No. 39, of the 10th instant, which, with Special Orders, No. 95, of the 21st instant, and the schedule to the governor’s proclamation of the 3d instant, contain all orders that have been issued in relation to the limits of your command. Special Orders, No. 95, gave you control of the troops at Culpeper Court-House, and, of course, of Colonel Ewell with them. On inquiry at the Exchange, I am informed that the “return” of troops on the Alexandria line has been forwarded to you. The commanding general desires to be informed, as early as practicable, of the exact extent to which the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad has been destroyed in the direction of Alexandria.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

[Inclosures.]

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 39.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 10, 1861.

...

II. Col. G. H. Terrett, of the Provisional Army of Virginia, will take charge of the troops from the counties of Alexandria, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and Fauquier, and the defense of those counties.

III. Col. P. St. George Cocke, Virginia Volunteers, will retain his headquarters at or near Culpeper Court-House, and organize into regiments as fast as possible the troops called out from the counties of Rappahannock, Culpeper, Madison, Greene, Orange, Albemarle, Nelson, Amherst, Campbell, Bedford, Roanoke, Botetourt, and Craig, assigning to their command the field officers placed at his disposal. He will direct the commands of Cols. S. Garland and J. F. Preston to repair to Manassas Junction and report for duty to Colonel Terrett.

...

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT.

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 95.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 21, 1861.

I. Brig. Gen. M. L. Bonham, of the C. S. Army, is assigned to the command of the troops on the line to Alexandria. He will post his brigade of South Carolina volunteers at the Manassas Junction, and establish his headquarters at that point or in advance, as he may find necessary. He will be guided by the instructions given to Col. George {p.880} H. Terrett, commanding at Alexandria, and to Col. P. St. George Cocke, at Culpeper Court-House, whose commands are embraced within his district, and are put under his control.

...

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 26, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:

COLONEL: I have received your communication of the 25th instant. In reply, I would state that I do not think it advisable to receive the company of cavalry from Gloucester. The Varina Troop, Capt. Abner Aiken, and a company from Charles City County, have already been ordered to you. The insufficiency of forage, to which you have alluded, and the unsuitability of the country for the action of cavalry, densely covered as it is by woods and intersected by creeks, nearly render it necessary to diminish the number of companies which you were yesterday informed would be sent you. I request that you will inform me how many companies you will need and how many can be provided for, as it is impossible to send you forage from Richmond.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 26, 1861.

Col. DANIEL RUGGLES, Commanding, Fredericksburg, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 24th instant is at hand. The commanding general desires you to report what number of companies you have called out and mustered into the service in the lower counties of the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers, what description of troops they are, and where they are now stationed. If after the arrival of the Second Regiment Tennessee Volunteers and the battery of four 6-pounders, you deem your force still insufficient to hold the enemy in check until other re-enforcements could reach you, it is suggested that you might draw from the counties before mentioned such companies as might be best spared from their present localities. If your mounted force is not already sufficient, and the service of Captain Cauthorn’s company is deemed indispensable, you can muster it into service.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 26, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT Adjutant-General Virginia Forces, Richmond, Va.:

COLONEL: I respectfully transmit herewith a statement of the amount of ammunition on hand.

The quantity in possession of the troops does not exceed twelve or fifteen rounds, the force in this vicinity being about five thousand two {p.881} hundred men. The statement includes what is still in the Ordnance Department, and is exclusive of the twelve or fifteen rounds issued. I respectfully suggest the importance of instant measures to send an additional supply as soon as possible. There is scarcely half enough here for an action.

We are observing the river from Williamsport to the Point of Rocks, at least thirty miles. Our force is too small, however, to prevent invasion by an enemy strong enough to be willing to attempt it. To hold this point and observe the river above the Point of Rocks would require fifteen or twenty thousand men. This position can be turned easily and effectively from above and below. After turning it, an enemy attacking in the rear would have decided advantage of ground against so small a force as our present one. Should the enemy cross the river the troops in this vicinity would be best employed in trying to retard his advance into the country. Their utter want of discipline and instruction will render it difficult to use them in the field. I beg to receive the views and instructions of the Commander-in-Chief in relation to the manner in which the troops under my command can best be used. I am procuring wagons to march, if necessary.

Captain Ashby, commanding near the Point of Rocks, was instructed by my predecessor to break the railroad whenever he found such a measure necessary for his defense. Those instructions were repeated by me. Captain Ashby reported this morning that in consequence of intelligence just received he was about to throw a mass of rock upon it, by blasting.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.

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Memorandum in relation to Harper’s Ferry.

[May 26, 1861.]

There is no danger of attack in front, but the position is easily turned by crossing the river above or below. The present force is not sufficient for defense against a superior one, attacking from the Virginia side. Relief, in case of investment, could not be furnished. Considered as a position, I regard Harper’s Ferry as untenable by us at present against a strong enemy. We have outposts at the Point of Rocks, near the ferry at Williamsport and the bridge at Shepherdstown, the extreme points being at least thirty miles apart. Our effective force, including those detachments and two others on the opposite heights, is about five thousand men, with one hundred and forty thousand cartridges and seventy-five thousand percussion caps. The only way in which this force can be made useful, I think, is by rendering it movable, and employing it to prevent or retard the enemy’s passage of the Potomac, and, should he effect the crossing, in opposing his advance into the country. This I shall endeavor to do, unless instructed to the contrary. Orders to provide wagons have been given. Cartridges have been made at the rate of font thousand per diem. I have directed increase of the force employed. Bullet-molds and cartridge-paper are wanting, and may not be procured.

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army. {p.882}

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 20.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 26, 1861.

The commanding officers at Richmond, Norfolk, Fredericksburg, and Harper’s Ferry, of the Alexandria line and the Hampton line, will be considered as commanding separate departments, in the sense of the sixty-fifth article of war, and are authorized to order general courts-martial.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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NORFOLK, VA., May 27, 1861-11.30 a. m.

Major-General LEE:

Seven steamers, with troops, have been and are now landing men at Newport News. Other steamers, with troops, arrived at Old Point this morning.

BENJ. HUGER.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Brigadier-General HUGER, Commanding, &c., Norfolk, Va.:

SIR: From the facts stated in your telegram received to-day I think it not improbable that the object of the troops which are landing at Newport News may be either to ascend Nansemond River to the town of Suffolk, or, if that river be too well protected for this, to cross James River to Burwell’s Bay, and thence, by land, to Suffolk, or some point of the railroad. The effect of either of these movements will be to cut off your communication with Richmond, and I take the liberty of calling your attention to this, as I know the pressure of the duties now upon you. I would recommend that you telegraph the governor of North Carolina to hasten the movements of those troops which are destined for Norfolk, Va., if they have not already arrived, and to recommend that he dispatch a sufficient force to Suffolk.

I am, general, with respect, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Lieut. JOHN M. BROOKE, Virginia Navy, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: You will proceed to Petersburg, and if the company from Fort Powhatan meets you there you will conduct it to Zuni, and endeavor to make temporary arrangements for its accommodation. You will give instructions to the commanding officer to guard the bridges over that river, and how to proceed in the event of the approach ,of the U. S. troops in force. Should the company not have reached Petersburg on your arrival, you will leave orders for it to follow to Zuni, where you will post it. If you find it necessary, you will continue to Norfolk and concert with the president of the road the best measures to be taken to guard it. After this, you will return to this point. You {p.883} are authorized to make a requisition upon the commanding general at Norfolk for any necessary articles which may be obtained at that place.

With respect, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:

SIR: I have received information, by telegraph, to-day from Norfolk that the Federal troops are landing at Newport News. I deem it proper to inform, you of this, as it may be their intention to move on to Warwick Court-House, and thence, by the road, to Yorktown. Captains Cosby and Hood, of the Confederate Army, have been ordered to report to you for the purpose of instructing the cavalry troop.

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Col. J. A. EARLY, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding, &c., Lynchburg, Va.:

COLONEL: The commanding general instructs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 26th instant,* and to express to you his satisfaction with the manner in which you repressed the difficulty among the companies under your command in relation to their arms. There are no cavalry arms here to issue, unless your companies would be willing to accept flint-lock pistols, of which we have only two hundred and ten.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,.

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Brig. Gen. JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: In a letter from Colonel Jackson, of the 21st instant, lately received, he speaks of the want of an ordnance or artillery officer at your post. There is none at present available, but Major Elzey, of the Confederate Army, has been ordered here, and I will endeavor to place him on duty with you. Meantime I have thought that the services of Colonel Jackson might be applied to the mounting and preparing the batteries for service. The proper defense of the country west of you and the command of the railroad through that region is deemed very important to the safety of your position, and it is hoped you will be able to take measures to maintain it, or prevent the use of the road to invaders of the State. It is thought probable that you might add to the comfort of your command by procuring, or causing to be procured, {p.884} at Winchester camp equipage for those companies said to be in want, and that arrangements might be made there for making cartridge-boxes, haversacks, &c.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Col. GEORGE A. PORTERFIELD, Commanding, &c., Grafton, Va.:

SIR: I have to inform you that I have ordered one thousand muskets, with a sufficient supply of powder and lead, to Beverly, escorted by Colonel Heck and Major Cowan. Any instructions you may have for Colonel Heck, address to him at Beverly. Colonel Heck has been instructed to call out all the volunteers that he can along his route.

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Capt. B. RUFFIN, JR., Virginia Volunteers:

SIR: You will proceed with the company under your command to Burwell’s Bay, to watch the movements of the enemy, in order to give notice of his approach, should he land in that vicinity and attempt to penetrate towards the railroad. In that case you will immediately dispatch messengers to Suffolk and to Zuni, where the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad crosses the Blackwater. You will then keep in front of the enemy, to observe his motions and retard his advance. Should it be necessary to communicate with you, such communications will be sent through the Smithfield post-office.

Very respectfully,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

P. S.-Upon your arrival at Burwell’s Bay you will inform the officer commanding at Zuni, in order that you may act in concert.

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HEADQUARTERS Yorktown Va., May 27, 1861.

Colonel GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

SIR: I have just received, by a special messenger from Major Cary, the following dispatch: “The enemy are landing at Newport News. Five steamers are up James River. Destination unknown. Please send down cavalry immediately.” I have not a single horseman and cannot get one. A large force of cavalry, as I have stated before, seems to me to be absolutely necessary, to learn of the movements of the enemy. Major Cary is falling back with only thirty-five men, the rest of the troops being engaged in removing their families. The five steamers are reported by the express as being filled with troops. I am of the impression that this is intended to be an attack on our flanks.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding. {p.885} [Indorsement.]

Colonel GARNETT:

See if you can get some cavalry off to Colonel Magruder. Should an advance be made by Williamsburg, Randolph’s battery, with the others here, must be sent down. Send those artillery companies from Lynchburg to Craney Island and Jamestown.

R. E. LEE.

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HEADQUARTERS Yorktown, Va., May 27, 1861-3 p. m.

Colonel GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

SIR: I am instructed by Colonel Magruder to inform you that, although he had been positively assured by Major Cary that five steamers had proceeded up James River (destination unknown), they have not yet made their appearance at Grove Wharf or King’s Mill, and that, should they land at either of the above-mentioned places, his present force would be insufficient to resist them effectually. I am also instructed to inform you that for the want of cavalry he has been obliged to disorganize his artillery, in order that they may act as vedettes. Under any circumstances, though, you may depend upon this place being defended, and held for two or three days at least.

I am, very respectfully,

GEO. A. MAGRUDER, JR. Acting Aide-de-Camp.

P. S.-This is informal, but I have not time to correct it. Please excuse the informality.

J. B. M.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

Major WILSON, Commanding, &c., Fort Powhatan, Va.:

Direct one company of infantry to proceed to Petersburg in time for the downward train to Norfolk to-morrow. It will receive orders on its arrival. Carry five days’ provisions.

R. E. LEE.

P. S.-Operator communicate by express.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 126.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

The volunteers from the State of Maryland, accepted into the service of Virginia, will assemble at Charlestown, Va., and be there organized into regiments by Col. Francis J. Thomas and instructed in their duties. This command will be under the orders of the commanding officer at Harper’s Ferry for service on that frontier.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 127.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 27, 1861.

The commanding officer of the cavalry camp at Ashland will select the four companies of his command best prepared for actual service in the field, and prepare them to move by railroad to Manassas Junction. Two of these companies will take the cars on Wednesday, at such hour and place as the railroad officers may appoint with the Quartermaster’s Department, and will be followed on the next day by the two remaining companies. The four companies will be placed under the command of Maj. Julian Harrison, Virginia volunteers, who will report to Brigadier-General Bonham on their arrival at Manassas Junction. They will be provided with at least one day’s cooked rations for the journey.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS, Yorktown, Va., May 27, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT:

SIR: The women and children have been passing here all day from Hampton, and Major Cary also is retreating on this place with about sixty-five men, out of some two hundred, which he had a day or two since-the remainder of his men being occupied attending to their retreating families. He left two pieces of indifferent artillery behind him within three miles of Hampton. I sent down for these to-night, and think they will be here, or at least in a place of safety by daylight. Since my last dispatch, which I sent through Colonel Ewell, further intelligence has-reached me, to the effect that a large body of troops, some two thousand five hundred or three thousand, perhaps exaggerated, marched out of Old Point by the head of Hampton Creek, the bridge by Hampton having been burned, passed through Hampton, and marched to Newport News and united with those who landed there to-day, making, by the smallest accounts, five thousand men. The statement with regard to the number of troops may be inaccurate, but from official reports, from Major Cary and otherwise, there is a very considerable body of Federal troops occupying that place, from which they can march to this place in one day with ease, or can reach this place more rapidly by landing their troops at Grove Landing, on James River, about eight miles from here, and over a road not easily defensible by inferior numbers. This landing is on my right and rear, being, as I said before, only eight miles from here and seven miles from Williamsburg, the distance from the latter place to this being twelve miles, and Williamsburg itself being northwest from us. Colonel Ewell reports to-day that he has only one hundred and eighty men under his command, and Colonel August, whom I left there because I saw that Williamsburg was very much exposed, has only between six and seven hundred men.

I shall urge upon Colonel Ewell your instructions in reference to the defenses between the heads of Queen and College Creeks, directing him to employ all the officers and soldiers of his command as laborers, all the troops here being employed night and day in this capacity. To-day he informs me that he has moved his force and that of Colonel August towards Grove Landing, keeping, however, I presume, his laborers employed upon, the defenses between Queen and College Creeks and in {p.887} front of Williamsburg. I have not had a moment’s time to examine the country farther than within the circumference of seven or eight miles. I therefore have not been to Williamsburg. I am perfectly satisfied, however, that if the enemy land in force at either of the places on the James River above mentioned and march upon Williamsburg, it will fall, unless strongly re-enforced, or unless I march to operate on his flank and rear while he is making the attack, in which case I should leave this point entirely uncovered and expose it to an attack in its rear from Fort Monroe. This place carried, Gloucester Point is commanded, and the enemy’s ships enter York River. In case of such an alternative, I should decide to defend this place to the last, unless I was satisfied that I could march upon the enemy, beat him, and return in time to meet an attack from the neighborhood of Fort Monroe. Anticipating before I left Richmond that the landing places below Jamestown Island would soon become insecure, I wrote from the depot to the Quartermaster-General a note, begging him to send some lighters of an appropriate kind to ply between Jamestown Island and the mainland on the road to Williamsburg, to enable the commanding general to throw rapidly into the latter place, if he thought proper, the necessary troops and supplies. I do not know if this has been done. It is absolutely necessary that the facilities of both rivers should be used to the utmost to carry on vigorously military operations in the country embraced between them. I know the troops are needed on every line, but I believe I cannot overrate the importance of preserving a numerical superiority of all arms over the enemy on the line of operations between this place and Jamestown, the lowest defensible points on the two rivers, while the works between Queen and College Creeks are being erected. I would respectfully represent, therefore, that the line from Yorktown to Jamestown be occupied by from eight to ten thousand men, and the defenses at the extremities-that is, at mouth of York River and Jamestown Island, be strengthened in every conceivable manner. I wanted Colonel Ewell to cause to be collected the most combustible materials at the wharfs at the landings below Jamestown Island, and to cause these wharfs to be burned whenever the enemy, in great force, makes an unmistakable demonstration to land. I close for fear of detaining the steamer. The second navy gun is in position, and I hope the third will be to-morrow night.

Major Cary and his command have just arrived, confirming the report of a large collection of troops at Newport News, and the presence, near that point, of a large fleet, destination unknown. I beg leave to call the attention of the General-in-Chief earnestly to the fact that there are but fifty rounds of ammunition for the navy batteries, the shells being without fuses, and, if four guns were mounted, there would be only about twelve rounds each. The navy officer reports a coil of heavy rope needed to make wads with. Please also direct one hundred rounds of ammunition to be sent for a 6-pounder gun, brought in by Major Cary, and one hundred rounds for a 12-pounder howitzer, likewise brought in by him. The formal requisition will be sent afterwards.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding Hampton Line.

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FALLS OF KANAWHA, VA., May 27, 1861.

Adjutant-General GARNETT, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have this moment an express from Lieutenant-Colonel McCausland, at Buffalo, dated yesterday, stating, “The Government has sent two hundred men to Gallipolis, and will have six hundred more there to-day. We are informed that they are intended to attack this camp. Send down all the troops you have.” In addition to this, reliable information reaches me that large numbers of troops are concentrating at Oak Hill twenty-three miles back of Gallipolis, and also at other places along the border. My idea is that these troops have been thrown into this proximity in order to overawe the loyal citizens of that region. For further particulars I beg leave to refer you to the bearer of this, Mr. David Kirkpatrick, a resident of this valley, and a well-informed man.

Very respectfully,

C. Q. TOMPKINS, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding.

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FALLS OF KANAWHA, VA., May 27, 1861.

Col. B. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

SIR: I avail myself of a few moments’ delay of the stage to explain more fully the nature of my communication this morning. I consider it of sufficient importance for the employment of a special messenger, and accordingly have instructed the bearer, Mr. Kirkpatrick, to convey this in person, and to telegraph from Staunton its import. I shall of course proceed to Buffalo as rapidly as possible. The idea is that the enemy intend crossing the Ohio River, to attack the camps at Buffalo. Unless they come in greatly superior force, we shall drive them back. On the other hand, if his numbers are large and the disaffection of the inhabitants strongly evinced, I shall take the most defensible position I may find, and rally the volunteers now in process of formation in the adjoining counties. Great excitement prevails in this region. The divided sentiment of the people adds to the confusion, and, except the few loyal companies now mustered into the service of the State, there are few of the people who sympathize with the secession policy. I send a special messenger (Mr. Kirkpatrick), because he is familiar with the whole of Ohio border, and can give you valuable information as to the resources, distances, &c. Mr. Kirkpatrick is reliable and intelligent. It is very desirable that Mr. Kirkpatrick should be the purveyor of some supplies for the troops which cannot be procured here. I beg that the quartermaster may be instructed to forward by him material for tents, three hundred blankets, five hundred cartridge-boxes (musket), and ten thousand percussion caps (rifle), &c.

In great haste, yours, respectfully,

C. Q. TOMPKINS, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers, Commanding.

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MAY 28, 1861.

Colonel GARNETT:

COLONEL: Direct Captain Barron to have his steamer ready for river service Send some troops to Jamestown, to protect that battery. The {p.889} Tennessee regiment might be used, if necessary. If you can, have boats to transfer the troops to the right bank of the river, in case of a movement on that side. Good lookouts must be kept up, to see what is doing, to gain accurate intelligence.

R. E. LEE.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 28, 1861.

[Col. GARNETT:]

COLONEL: I reported to you on the 26th instant, for the information of the Commander-in-Chief, that the troops under my command are observing the river from Williamsport to the Point of Rocks. I will now give what was then omitted-the precise disposition of these troops:

Colonel Allen is opposite to Williamsport, thirty miles above, with his own regiment, two companies of Colonel Hill’s, and a section of artillery. The position cannot be defended by such a force, the ferry at Williamsport being at the vertex of a horseshoe, five or six miles in length, having another at each heel. A company of cavalry and a section of artillery guard the bridge at Shepherdstown. There are two companies of infantry, two of cavalry, and six field pieces, with their men, at the bridge at the Point of Rocks, twelve miles below, and a company of cavalry at the Berlin Bridge, halfway to the Point of Rocks. Preparations have been made to break each of these two bridges and the railroad bridge here. It is more than forty miles from Williamsport to the Point of Rocks. A detachment of three hundred and fifty infantry occupies a point on the Maryland Heights, one and a half miles from the near end of the crest of the ridge, and two and a half miles from Harper’s Ferry. The crest of the ridge beyond the Shenandoah is guarded by two companies of infantry.

In the present state of the river no force that could be detached from this place could prevent its passage by an enemy. In a few weeks, or even days, when fords will be numerous, an army will be necessary to guard the Potomac above, as far as the western line of Berkeley. With this point occupied, as it is, some five or six thousand men, judiciously placed between Martinsburg and the line, and a reserve of about the same force within striking distance of each, invasion would be difficult. As matters now are, the enemy can easily seize Martinsburg, in the heart of a disloyal population, and nearer than Harper’s Ferry to Winchester.

If the Commander-in-Chief has precise instructions to give, I beg to receive them early. I have prepared means of transportation for a march. Should it be decided that the troops should constitute a garrison, this expense can be reduced.

Your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON.

P. S.-I submit a memorandum by Major Whiting, C. S. Engineers. {p.890} [Inclosure.]

HARPER’S FERRY, VA., May 28, 1861.

Consultation on the condition of Harper’s Ferry and its defenses reduced to writing.

The plan of the enemy, indicated by his movements, seems to be a cautious approach to, and entrance of, disaffected districts, securing his advance, if possible, by securing the sentiments of the people. In the district to the northwest of Harper’s Ferry these tactics will be the best he can follow, on account of known Union proclivities and the vicinity of the frontier.

Large bodies of troops are gathering at Carlisle and Chambersburg, the number already reported (probably exaggerated) being fifteen thousand. When ready to move they will occupy Martinsburg, crossing at Williamsport and Shepherdstown. Martinsburg is well known to be disaffected. His line, established from Martinsburg towards Shepherdstown, has an excellent base, and communications very difficult to interrupt by the Hagerstown and Cumberland roads, and very seriously threatens, not only Harper’s Ferry, with its present forces and conditions, but our whole line of operations. Martinsburg is nearer to Winchester than the Ferry, and access easy. Our holding Winchester is necessary to maintain the Ferry. To hold this post, then, either as a fortress, a point d’appui, or as a condition of the defense of the Virginia Valley, we require a force of from twelve to fifteen thousand men, of which two regiments should be cavalry. The force now at the Ferry (about five thousand effectives) might remain as at present, while the main body should be posted centrally, as at Burns’ Ford, on the Opequan, where a strong position might be selected, and, if necessary, defended by lines. The strengthening and re-enforcement of this force, as now constituted, seems to have ceased when most necessary. It is essential that supplies of ammunition (especially of equipments of shoes) should be forwarded in quantity, otherwise, without the arrangement designated, we are so deficient in ammunition that this force must, on the advance of the enemy, move out from the Ferry and maneuver, to prevent being shut up in a cul-de-sac.

The plan sketched above will absolutely force the enemy to very great delay and vastly extended preparations. It continually (by way of Leesburg and the eastern slope of the ridge) threatens the District of Columbia. If, however, he is beforehand with us (besides the present disastrous results), he gains what may take time, means, and men, on a similar scale, to recover.

Very respectfully,

W. H. C. WHITING, Major of Engineers.

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RICHMOND, VA., May 28, 1861.

Hon. JEFFERSON DAVIS, President Confederate States of America, Goldsborough N. C.:

General Lee left for Manassas Junction this morning. Passengers just from there report all quiet. Fifteen hundred men from Fort Monroe were reported in Hampton yesterday, not molesting the people, but stealing property, &c. Ruggles, at Fredericksburg, reports that the enemy, in force, have landed six miles above Aquia. This is doubted, {p.891} but he will telegraph again. General Lee is expected to-morrow night. I send your dispatch to the governor.

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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MANASSAS, VA., May 29, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT:

Number of troops six thousand. Should be ten. Returned from Fairfax Court-House. All right.

R. E. LEE.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 29, 1861.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: In the absence of General Lee, who is on a hasty visit to Manassas Junction, I have requested Colonel Dimmock to send to your command with all practicable dispatch, one hundred thousand cartridges, five-eighths of them for smooth-bore muskets, and the remaining three-eighths equally divided between the minie musket and Harper’s Ferry rifle. In the absence of a requisition, specifying the caliber, I have adopted these proportions upon consultation with Lieutenant-Colonel Deas. Your letters will be submitted to General Lee as soon as he arrives, which will not, perhaps, be until to-morrow.

President Davis arrived this morning, and I shall submit your papers to him.

I am, sir, very respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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WILLIAMSBURG, VA., May 29, 1861.

Col. JOHN A. WASHINGTON, Aide to General Lee, Commanding Virginia Forces:

SIR: The receipt of your communication, relative to the defenses of the peninsula formed by the York and James Rivers, is respectfully acknowledged. As to their state of forwardness, the works have not yet been fully planned by the engineers. One very important has been and is progressing rapidly. A large number of the hands (nearly or quite five hundred), including a part of the volunteer force, are at work. I see no occasion for further delay. I beg you to call the attention of the Commanding General to the fact that the force now here is not sufficient to repel a serious attack. If Yorktown, Jamestown, or the defenses below Williamsburg fall, the way will be open to Richmond. To defend them, more troops are necessary, well supplied with artillery. Colonel Magruder is well convinced of all this. So far as he has mentioned his opinions to me, his views coincide with mine, and thus I am more fully convinced of their correctness.

With high respect, your obedient servant

BENJ. S. EWELL, Lieutenant-Colonel, Virginia Volunteers.

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WILLIAMSBURG, VA., May 29, 1861.

Colonel MAGRUDER, Commanding Department:

SIR: There are, including the volunteers, five hundred men at work on the defenses below Williamsburg. There has been some delay, I think, in consequence of the necessity of allowing time to the engineers to complete their reconnaissance. These defenses will be pushed forward with all possible dispatch. Unless artillery is furnished to defend them with, I fear they will avail but little. There ought to be two light batteries at least. Now there is not a piece. Your immediate attention is asked to this.

Respectfully,

BENJ. S. EWELL, Lieut. Col., Comdg. Camp Page, near Williamsburg, Va.

[Indorsement.]

I recommend, most urgently, that the light batteries asked for by Colonel Ewell be furnished without delay. If they are sent mounted and without horses, harness, or caissons, they will answer. It is requisite that they should have a full supply of ammunition, assorted. They have applied for it formally, and have received the sanction of General Lee. With these remarks the letter of General Lee [?] is respectfully referred.

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding.

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NORFOLK, VA., May 29, 1861.

Major-General LEE, Richmond, Va.:

I am obliged by the size and position of my command to divide it into two, by the Elizabeth River, and assign the eastern division to Colonel Withers, and the western to Colonel Blanchard. Not having the requisite staff; I have to allow them to use acting appointments, without pay, to perform the duty. Such articles as they find it necessary to procure, I must order paid by the quartermaster here, Capt. J. A. Johnston, who, I am happy to inform you, has now entered upon his duties. The law of Virginia gives volunteers an allowance in money for clothing; but, as the men are not paid, the volunteers, especially those from distant States, can get no clothing, as they have no money to procure it with. I will have to get for them the articles which are absolutely necessary, and have the amount advanced deducted from their pay. I find officers here without means of procuring provisions. I will have to ration them, or give them means to buy food, and deduct it from their pay. I mention these necessities, that you may, if you think proper, cover such cases by a general order. The Federal forces seem establishing themselves at Newport News. They have landed some ordnance and many stores. All the transport steamers have left but one.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

BENJ. HUGER, Brigadier-General.

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HEADQUARTERS, Yorktown, Va., May 29, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: I sent to Hampton for the two pieces left by Major Cary’s command, and succeeded in bringing them up. I sent last night a detachment of light artillery, acting as cavalry, to bring up some spades, shovels, &c., with a large quantity of rope, &c. They have arrived. I hope to be able to leave here to-morrow, with some cavalry and light artillery, to protect the people near Hampton at least, and would like to take down my command of infantry, except three companies of the Virginia battalion, if I thought that troops from Richmond could be sent to Williamsburg, and between that place and this. I do not like to leave Yorktown exposed to be taken from Grove Landing. I am anxious to attack, to make the enemy stay within his own immediate neighborhood. Lieutenant Thornton, who is now sick, is my acting assistant adjutant-general. He has had no experience. I have nobody but my nephew, Mr. Magruder, who is a citizen, and Mr. Stanard, who is a private. Captain Lambert, assistant quartermaster, is at Williamsburg, where a quartermaster ought to be stationed. I must have an efficient one here. The whole of my time nearly is occupied in doing other people’s duties. I merely speak of this, as it prevents me from being as useful as I desire. I think that Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, if he could be spared, would be of great service here.

There is corn and long forage enough in the lower part of the peninsula and about here for one thousand horses, as I am informed by Major Cary, Virginia volunteers. He knows the country. The defenses here and at Williamsburg and vicinity are progressing rapidly.

More troops are necessary at Williamsburg, and between that place and this, or rather facing Grove Landing. All the property of the citizens near Hampton, except that of Union men, will fall into the hands of the enemy, except also that which I can cause to be saved. To-day, for the first time, I have had the use of cavalry. Captain Douthat marched forty-seven miles yesterday, and joined me last night at 11 o’clock. I send him to-night near Hampton, with Captain Brown’s artillery, to protect the people, save their property, and, if possible, to cut off some of the enemy. The number of Federal troops at Newport News is probably between five and ten thousand, as they were landing troops from Monday, perhaps half the daylight, till after dark on Tuesday. There are no vessels there this morning. I do not think there are more than five thousand men at the most. I shall probably go down in person to-night or to-morrow morning.

This place has been most carefully examined by me as to its capabilities of defense, at a distance or near, and I am satisfied that it cannot be taken by any number of men that can be brought against it, if it is properly intrenched and defended by a sufficient number of men; that is, as long as the mouth of the river is secured by the batteries on this side and on Gloucester Point, which I think will be the case when all the guns are in position that are contemplated. There are here, of all arms, two thousand five hundred and four officers and men. I left Colonel August’s regiment at Williamsburg because I saw that it (Williamsburg) was unprotected. Two regiments of infantry, in addition to the present force, would make this place I think perfectly safe. Since I last wrote, it has been greatly strengthened. Two regiments of infantry, more if possible, should be sent to Williamsburg. I have invited the magistrates of the adjacent counties to meet me here this afternoon, at 5 o’clock, to have all the wagons in the counties collected, and to be {p.894} sent down, under cover of a large detachment, to bring up property, and to send to Lieutenant-Colonel Ewell and myself one-half of all the negroes in their counties, to fortify the different points, while this expedition is going on near Hampton.

I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding Hampton Line.

P. S.-Captain Lambert, assistant quartermaster, and Captain Meade, of the Engineers, have arrived.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond Va., May 30, 1861.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.

SIR: While at Manassas I made the following arrangements of light troops: A corps of observation, of cavalry and infantry, has been established, under Colonel Ewell, in advance of Fairfax Court-House, the right extending towards Occoquan, the left to the Leesburg road. Col. Eppa Hunton, commanding at Leesburg, has been ordered to have an advance post at Dranesville, and to extend his scouts down the Alexandria and Leesburg roads, to communicate with Colonel Ewell. He is to inform you of any movement of the U. S. troops, in the direction of Leesburg, tending to threaten your rear, through Captain Ashby, at Point of Rocks. In the event of such a movement, should you deem it advisable, and should you be unable to hold your position, I would suggest a joint attack by you and General Bonham, commanding at Manassas, for the purpose of cutting them off. I have given full verbal explanations to Capt. Thomas L. Preston, who leaves Richmond to-morrow, to join your command.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 30, 1861.

Brig. Gen. JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: A supply of caps are reported on their way from Nashville. As soon as they arrive the Ordnance Department has been ordered to send you eighty thousand. There are none here. The Arkansas regiment of volunteers has been ordered to report to you. Will start tomorrow. The letter from your commissary, calling for money, has been referred to the Commissary General of Subsistence. Our means of manufacturing ammunition are wholly insufficient, while calls for it are pressing in from all quarters.

I am, sir, very respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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NORFOLK, VA., May 30, 1861.

General R. E. LEE:

We have the Merrimac up, and just pulling her in the dry-dock.

F. FORREST, Flag Officer.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 30, 1861.

Col. F. H. SMITH, Richmond, Va.:

COLONEL: I submit below the information you ask for the council. It is, of course, not strictly correct, though I think it is not far out of the way. It is impossible to get returns from these volunteers:

Norfolk, no returns, 7,000 conjectured; Jamestown Island, no returns, fifteen companies, 1,050; Williamsburg and Yorktown, no returns, 3,500 Gloucester Point, no returns, 600; West Point, 250; Richmond, including Ashland and the Confederate States troops, 5,500; Fredericksburg, including counties on the lower Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers, number not known, 2,700; Manassas Gap, no returns, 6,000; Leesburg, no returns, 500; Harper’s Ferry, excluding Maryland troops, not known, and excluding Point of Rocks, 5,500; Grafton, no returns, 1,000 conjectured; Kanawha Valley, no returns, 1,100; Abingdon, no returns, 500 conjectured; Lynchburg, no returns, 1,000 conjectured; besides a few companies supposed to be at Staunton, Charlottesville, &c. Total, 36,000.

I am, sir, very respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond Va., May 81, 1861.

Col. W. B. BLAIR:

SIR: The troops in the Kanawha Valley are under the command of Col. C. Q. Tompkins, whose headquarters are at or near Charleston. There are at present only five hundred men in service. It is desired to have about sixteen hundred, if they can be raised.

I am, sir, very respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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Memorandum for General Lee.

HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., May 31, 1861.

Intelligence was brought me this morning, from a gentleman residing near Hagerstown, that 1,600 troops arrived in Chambersburg on Tuesday and 5,000 yesterday, making, with the 3,500 there before, 10,100, with plenty of artillery (quantity unknown), many wagons and horses. A note was shown me yesterday, written in Hagerstown on Wednesday afternoon, by a woman, in which it, is said that such a force is to move to the Potomac (with baggage wagons) from Chambersburg through either Hagerstown or Greencastle.

In another note (from an officer of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad), it is said that large forces are to enter Virginia somewhere between Cumberland and Hagerstown to meet Ohio troops. The Northern papers confirm this.

An officer of the railroad told me here that news of the occupation of Grafton by U. S. troops is brought by telegraph. We can learn nothing from the west, nor beyond the range of persons specially employed. Should the enemy cross the river above, we cannot learn when the Ohio troops join them, nor in what numbers.

This place cannot be held against an enemy who would venture to attack it. Would it not be better for these troops to join one of our armies, which is too weak for its object, than be lost here I They are not equipped for the field. The only means of transportation, besides the railroad, are wagons impressed in the neighborhood. Should these troops be ordered elsewhere, please indicate any objectionable [?] route.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.

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SUFFOLK, VA., May 31, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

An attempt is being made, under my orders, to bring one or two steamboats (to act as tugs or transports) into the Nansemond River. I think it will be successful. I have here (besides my two Maryland companies) a regiment from North Carolina and two troops of cavalry, and have been ordered by General Huger to take command of the forces in this district. On good authority, I believe the landing at Newport News to be a sanitary measure, and the enemy’s forces there do not exceed thirty-five hundred men. If I may be permitted, and the troops in Yorktown can co-operate with me, I think I can (say two nights hence) cross the James River and strike him a blow, and then retire. I respectfully ask the general’s advice.

FRANCIS J. THOMAS.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 31, 1861.

Col. FRANCIS J. THOMAS, Commanding, &c., Suffolk, Va.:

SIR: In reply to you telegram of to-day, I am instructed to state that you can prepare the transports, so that they may be ready for any emergency. You must not, however, make the attack at present, unless completely prepared for success. It is necessary, before doing so, that there should be a sure and complete co-operation between the forces on both sides of the James River, and that there should be a most perfect knowledge of the number and position of the U. S. troops.

I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 149.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., May 31, 1861.

General G. T. Beauregard, of the C. S. Army, is assigned to the command of the troops in the Alexandria line. He is referred to the orders heretofore given to his predecessors in that command for the general direction of operations.

By order of Major-General Lee:

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 1, 1861.

General JOSEPH B. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: I received, on my return from Manassas Junction, your communications of the 26th and 28th ultimo, in reference to your position at Harper’s Ferry. The difficulties which surround it have been felt from the beginning of its occupation, and I am aware of the obstacles to its maintenance with your present force. Every effort has been made to remove them, and will be continued, but with similar necessities pressing on every side you need not be informed of the difficulty of providing against them. The arrangements made and positions taken by the troops under your command are judicious, and it is hoped that sufficient re-enforcements can be sent you to enable you to occupy your present point in force and carry out the plan of defense indicated in your communications. Great reliance is placed on your good judgment, the skill of your officers, and the ardor of your troops, and should you be attacked by a force which you may be unable to resist at all points and, to keep beyond the frontier, you must move out of your position and destroy all facilities for the approach or shelter of an enemy. Concentrate your troops, and contest his approach step by step into the interior.

With a view of making your column movable, the Quartermaster’s Department was ordered, some weeks ago, to provide all the wagons they could, and I was informed that agents were sent to the country east and west of the Blue Ridge for the purpose. The little use for wagons, save for farming purposes, makes their collection difficult; but by the efforts of the Quartermaster’s Department and the means you have taken it is hoped you may be provided.

Ammunition has been sent to you. The supply was necessarily limited, in consequence of the calls from other points. Can you make arrangements to provide an auxiliary amount for your command?

I have informed you of the military arrangements east of the Blue Ridge. A large force is now collecting in front of Alexandria, and General Beauregard has been sent to command it. Its presence will make the enemy cautious in approaching your rear south of the Potomac, and in that event I hope you will receive timely intelligence, through the light troops under Colonel Ewell, extending to the Leesburg road. Should such a movement be made, as was suggested in a previous letter, you are expected to use your discretion as to the best mode of meeting it.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 1, 1861.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: In answer to your letter of the 31st ultimo, received by Col. H. A. Edmundson, I have to state that, since my letter to you of this morning, I have directed all the available companies at Staunton to proceed to Harper’s Ferry and to report to you for duty. The First {p.898} Tennessee Regiment, now at this place, Colonel Turney, has also been directed to report to you as soon as practicable. With this re-enforcement, and such as you may be able to obtain from the valley, you may probably hold your position and prevent the passage of the Potomac by hostile troops until further troops can reach you. I think that no troops from Ohio have yet reached Grafton, as a special messenger from Colonel Porterfield reports the contrary, and that certain bridges on the Parkersburg road had been burned. Some little time must therefore elapse, in all probability, before a movement can be made against you from that direction. Information of the movements of troops in that direction might be obtained from friends in that region. Should you, however, be opposed by a force too large to resist, I can only repeat what is contained in my letter of this morning, viz, destroy everything that cannot be removed which may be of advantage to the enemy. Deprive them of the use of the railroad, take the field, and endeavor to arrest their advance up the valley.

I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 1, 1861.

Col. DANIEL RUGGLES, Commanding, &c., Fredericksburg, Va.:

SIR: Your telegraphic dispatch of yesterday to the governor of the State, for ammunition for Captain Walker’s battery, was referred to the General Commanding, and the Ordnance Department has been instructed to supply it as far as practicable. The General regrets to have to remind an officer of your experience of the propriety of adhering to the usages of the military service in relation to official communications. Your application for ammunition should have been sent for his action. He feels constrained to call your attention also to the necessity of economizing the ammunition issued to the troops. The straitened means of the State are taxed to the last degree to provide for the first wants of the troops in this respect. As understood by him, the recent exchange of shots between your batteries on the Potomac and the enemy’s vessels could have no other result than to waste ammunition and to expose our condition and the strength of the batteries, which was probably the object of his visit.

I am, sir, very respectfully,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., June 1, 1861.

Colonel GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

COLONEL: I respectfully transmit herewith Colonel Allen’s last report, and a paper in relation to affairs near Grafton, for the information of the General Commanding-in-Chief.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army. {p.899} [Inclosure No. 1.]

HEADQUARTERS FIRST INFANTRY, Camp Johnston, Va., May 31, 1861.

Brigadier-General JOHNSTON:

SIR: I have the honor to report the following information, just obtained:

The Federal troops concentrated at Chambersburg number thirteen thousand. The advance guard, of three thousand, left there at 1 p. m. for Hagerstown, where they will encamp to-night, from which force vedettes are to be thrown into Williamsport. Two companies are said to have been sent towards the river above (point not known), supposed to be at a ford. From the accompanying map you will see our position. The ford northwest of camp is susceptible of good defense. The one opposite Williamsport can be protected without difficulty by the enemy, if they have artillery.

The communication in pencil is from a perfectly reliable source. I would wish positive instructions, and, if to make a stand, re-enforcements. My line of defense is too extended for my present force. Owing to disaffection in Captain White’s cavalry, they are not as efficient as they should be, and incompetent to guard the river.

Your most obedient servant,

J. W. ALLEN, Colonel, First Infantry.

[Inclosure No. 2.]

MARTINSBURG, VA., – –, 1861.

According to the best information to be obtained here, Colonel Porterfield left Grafton last Monday, with his command, of about one thousand five hundred men. He went to Philippi, in Barbour County, where he probably awaits re-enforcements, expected from the valley. The U. S. troops from Wheeling, to the number of about two thousand, arrived at Mannington (forty miles west of Grafton) last Monday, and stopped to repair two small railroad bridges which had been destroyed near there. The repair of the bridges could not detain them over three or four days. Nothing definite is known here about the U. S. force advancing from Parkersburg to Grafton, but some of the railroad bridges on that line are believed to have been destroyed. There was no military force of either side at Grafton on Wednesday at 4 p. m.; but some of the Union men of the neighborhood were gathering there, with such arms as they could get at home.

The above information, meager as it is, is all that we have, and is reliable as far as it goes. The bridges between this and Cumberland should by all means be burned (especially the bridge over the Potomac proper). Small bridges are but a small hinderance, in point of time, to an army, and recollect the railroad is to be the means of precipitating the immense body of men from Ohio and west of Ohio, who are to occupy our Virginia. Only important bridges will present obstacles, as to time, of any material value. West of Cumberland there are also important bridges, but I fear they are in the hands of Union men, and a little force would be required.

[No signature.]

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 2, 1861.

Lieut. Col. B. S. EWELL, Williamsburg, Va.:

I am instructed by General Lee to inform you that there will be sent to Jamestown Island to-morrow eight field guns (6 and 12 pounders) for the works now being constructed under your superintendence below Williamsburg. The commanding officer at Jamestown has been instructed to transport these guns at once to the neck of land, from which place you will remove them to the works for which they are intended. I suppose you will have no difficulty in this matter, the destruction of the wood trade, in which I learn your people have been largely engaged, having caused a large number of idle teams.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 2, 1861.

Brig. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, Norfolk, Va.:

SIR: In reply to your letter of the 31st instant, in relation to officers of the C. S. Army and of the Provisional Army of Virginia, under your orders, I am instructed to say, as to the latter, that they were sent to you to be entirely at your disposal, and you are authorized to employ them in any manner in which you may think they can be made useful to the service. You will receive information respecting the officers of the C. S. Army as soon as it can be referred to the proper authority.

I am, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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YORKTOWN, VA., June 2, 1861.

[Col. GARNETT ?]:

SIR: I have just returned from a reconnaissance of the country between this point and the neighborhood of Hampton and Newport News, and have received the most accurate information. There are about nine thousand troops at both places. They are generally in a most disorganized state. Troops are, however, arriving daily. Dr. Cuyler informs Col. Carly S. Jones that no movement would be made until there were fifteen thousand troops at Fort Monroe and Newport News together. This, he supposed, would be within ten days. I am pushing forward the defenses here, and hope to be fully prepared.

I designed an expedition to dislodge the Federal troops from Newport News, which I was informed was almost in a defenseless state as to fortifications; but the regiment from Virginia, under Colonel August, was not ready to take the field, for want of shoes and other necessaries, and I ascertained at the last moment that the position of the troops at Newport News was much stronger than I had been led to believe. I therefore gave it up, and substituted for it one of reconnaissance, and to afford some relief to the frightened people of the country near Hampton. I found that the country was rich in supplies for horses, and that the presence there of two companies of cavalry and one of sharpshooters with a small gun would afford all the protection necessary to induce the {p.901} farmers to remain and finish the cultivation of their crops. I shall send three companies there very soon.

There is some difference of opinion here as to the rank of Colonel Hill, of the North Carolina regiment, and myself. I think I rank him, but am of the impression that it is a subject of some feeling on his part. He has, however, obeyed my orders so far, and I presume will continue to do so. I have been obliged to do almost all the duties of the staff myself until now, when I have the services of Captain Cosby and Captain Lambert, assistant quartermaster, the latter wholly without experience. I hope in a few days to have a more perfect organization.

I do not think we shall be attacked by troops coming from Fort Monroe by land over the Peninsula, but that if attacked it will be by sea and by land (from Grove Landing) at the same time. The steamer is waiting. I hope to be able to write more fully to-morrow.

I am, very respectfully,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 3, 1861.

Brig. Gen. JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

SIR: I have received your letter of the 1st, inclosing report from Colonel Allen and a paper in relation to affairs near Grafton. In reference to the last, the latest reports received from Colonel Porterfield are more favorable than the report from Colonel Allen. A party has been ordered to secure the road at Cheat River and east of it, which I hope will effectually prevent its use. As regards Harper’s Ferry, its abandonment would be depressing to the cause of the South, and I have thought it possible that you might detach a portion of your force towards Martinsburg, the occupation of which or a point on the Opequan, would strengthen your posts in front of Williamsport and at Shepherdstown. In addition to the First Tennessee Regiment, a regiment from Georgia has been ordered to join you.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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DEPARTMENT OF ALEXANDRIA, VA., PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES, Camp Pickens, Va., June 3, 1861.

His Excellency President JEFFERSON DAVIS, Richmond, Va.:

DEAR SIR: I arrived here on the 1st, at 2 p. m., and immediately examined the site of this encampment and the place of its proposed defenses. The former is an open country, traversed by good roads in every direction, without any strong natural features for the purposes of defense, and without running water nearer than three miles, except a few small springs at half that distance. The plans of the works are good, but too extensive to be finished in less than two or three weeks, and cannot be garrisoned with less than from three to four thousand men. As this position can be turned in every direction by an enemy, for the purpose of destroying the railroads intended to be defended by {p.902} it, it becomes a question whether these works could be held more than a few days when thus isolated.

I have reconnoitered closely several of the fords on Bull Run and one on Occoquan Run (about three miles from here), which offer strong natural features of defense; but they are so numerous and far apart that only a much larger force than I have here at my command (say not less than from ten to fifteen thousand men) could hope to defend them all against a well-organized enemy of about twenty thousand men, who could select his point of attack. I must therefore either be re-enforced at once, as I have not more than about six thousand effective men or I must be prepared to retire, on the approach of the enemy, in the direction of Richmond, with the intention of arresting him whenever and wherever the opportunity shall present itself, or I must march to meet him at one of said fords, to sell our lives as dearly as practicable. Badly armed and badly equipped as my command is at present, with several of its regiments having but one or two field officers and having hardly any means of transportation, it would be expecting too much that I could meet with success the Northern foes that are preparing to attack us within a few days with all the advantages of arms, numbers, and discipline. I beg, however, to remark that my troops are not only willing, but are anxious, to meet the enemies of our country under all circumstances.

I remain, dear sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

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HEADQUARTERS YORKTOWN, VA., June 3, 1861.

Colonel GARNETT:

SIR: There are now here, at this post, including officers and men, sick and extra duty, about three thousand four hundred. Colonel Ewell has only about four hundred. I shall station at or near Grove Landing two companies, to fall back upon Colonel Ewell’s command, and at Blow’s Mill, four miles this side of Grove Landing, and on the road to this place also two companies, both infantry. I shall also detach a company of rifles from Hampton to that part of the country, and two companies of cavalry, as I stated yesterday. This will make our force about three thousand here, but will leave Colonel Ewell much exposed. As to calling out the militia, this country is so thinly populated that it cannot be depended on. Colonel Ewell, who is with me now, thinks that it will amount to one hundred and fifty men, all told, and these not effective, and not to be relied on. The reason of this, Colonel Ewell says, is that there are many disaffected men in Elizabeth City and the lower part of York County; many also being obliged to stay at home on account of the occupation of the country by Federal troops. A large accession of force of infantry and artillery ought, therefore, to be made to this command, in order to secure the line from Jamestown Island and to York River-at least four thousand more. Our lines here are very extended. Our outward right flank defenses are nearly completed. We have a breastwork connecting the old English fort with the head of the ravine, which latter is in front of our position. The old fort protects our left. The navy battery has three guns mounted; a fourth will be in position in a day or two. The work itself has been inclosed. I think it labor thrown away upon it, as, if our other positions were carried, we could not find shelter in this inclosed work for one-third of our men. As the plan was arranged before {p.903} I came down, I did not interfere. It is intended to strengthen our left by making works which will require regular approaches, if we have time. When once strongly fortified, I shall always be able to defend this work, at least until an army from the interior can raise the siege by beating the besiegers. We expect to be very strong by the end of this week. While this is going on, abattis will be thrown across many of the roads leading to this place, only two being left open for public use, and defenses will be thrown up at all favorable points. The axemen, to make the abattis for exterior defense, go out to-morrow.

I have directed Captain Meade to state how many additional guns he considers necessary for the defenses about to be erected and those now in existence, and how many men will be required to man the various works. I will forward it to the General-in-Chief as soon as made out. I shall be able to supply corn and hay to all the cavalry from this part of the country, if wagons can be sent to me. There are very few about here. I have made a requisition for fifty. Instead of waiting for the whole number, I request that as many as can be obtained be sent, with drivers and teams of course. Tents are absolutely necessary for troops acting in the field. The cavalry, with the exception of Douthat’s company, have no tents, and the houses here are all occupied. I have directed the assistant quartermaster to-day to get boards from a steam saw-mill about seven miles above this place, with which to build sheds for mules and horses. Requisitions for tents for the Third Virginia Regiment are in the hands of the Quartermaster’s Department, and approved, but they have none. Not more than one-third of the force works on the defenses; the rest are drilling. Colonel Ewell has been directed by me to cause the men under his command to work at the defenses intrusted to him, and also to employ, or impress, if necessary, as many negroes as he requires for this purpose.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding.

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HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF FREDERICKSBURG, Fredericksburg, Va., June 3, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

SIR: I received last evening the General’s views respecting my telegram to Governor Letcher of the 31st ultimo. The views expressed are admitted, on general principles, as correct. The General is not probably aware of the return through my office, on the morning in question, if my memory serves me, of the requisition of Captain Walker for ammunition, made some days previously, without having been filled, on the ground of an omission to state the amount of ammunition on hand. I have been informed also that the General was then absent at Manassas Junction. As I approached the scene of action that morning the firing had become rapid and heavy, and there was reason to believe that a crisis was rapidly approaching. Under these circumstances I wrote the telegram, and instructed a clerk, sent to Fredericksburg for that purpose, to send it to the governor, and also to your office. I had been authorized, on entering on duty, immediately on the secession of the State, to communicate directly with the governor on matters deemed by me of material importance. The effort to sustain our cause and to supply Captain Walker’s rifled guns was thus accomplished, enabling me to carry under my personal charge a full supply of ammunition for it upon the field in the midst of the action on Saturday.

Military commanders, I have found from an experience not very limited (and to which the General has been pleased to refer), sometimes sacrifice forms to impending necessities. On the subject of the expenditure of ammunition, the General has not been more solicitous as to its economical use than I have constantly been. Thus far it is well known that the naval batteries are under the exclusive command of the naval officers, and I have had only to assist in locating them, to furnish the men and most of the materials to build them, and (when erected) to man and protect them at all times, much to the prejudice of my volunteer organization, and have never ordered the firing of a single gun from one of them.

I have reason to regret that the General should have, apparently, judged as to the character of our operations from information possibly derived from irresponsible sources. I trust that the General will believe that, so far as depends upon myself personally, I shall make the best use of such force and material as may be furnished me and as I can raise and collect.

It is to be observed that, although our forces have not suffered, I should not be willing, trusting to rumor and observation, to assure the enemy so readily for loss sustained.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL RUGGLES, Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 4, 1861.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: Colonel McDonald, who will hand you this letter, will exhibit to you a communication addressed to him by direction of the President, and I am instructed to suggest that you co-operate with him in furthering the important object in view to the extent that your judgment will enable you to act.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 4, 1861.

Col. ANGUS W. MCDONALD, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: You will proceed to Harper’s Ferry, and report to General Joseph E. Johnston. With such troops of horse as he can spare from his command and such as you may raise as have not yet been mustered into service, you will then with this force proceed to the Cheat River Bridge, and if practicable destroy the same, and as much of the road, bridges, and tunnels as you can accomplish.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINlA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 4, 1861.

Col. J. A. EARLY, Lynchburg, Va.:

COLONEL: In reply to your communication of the 2d instant, I am instructed to state that there are no cavalry sabers or pistols of any kind here, and your request cannot, therefore, be complied with.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General.

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SHEPHERDSTOWN, VA., June 4, 1861.

Brigadier-General JOHNSTON:

SIR: I have intelligence from the other side up to 3 p. m. yesterday. No Federal troops at Hagerstown, Boonsborough, or at any other point in the valley. At Chambersburg there are said to be some ten or twelve thousand men, though my informant believed that their number was exaggerated.

A true friend from Maryland, living three miles from this post, came over last night with information that on Sunday a prominent Republican, of Washington County, Maryland, named Cook, accompanied by a Pennsylvanian, in citizen’s dress, were at Mercersville, about three and a half miles above this place, and at other points along the canal above that point, engaging boats and scows, to be used in passing the river. Cook said to one of the persons, from whom he obtained a ferry-boat, that, in the course of the next week, there would be twenty or twenty-five thousand men thrown into Virginia upon this line; that they proposed to cross the river at three points, viz, Mercersville, Slackwater Dam No. 4, about six miles above this, and at Williamsport; and that the three columns would concentrate at a point on the railroad not far from Kerneysville. There is a great congregation of canal and ferry boats at Slackwater Dam No. 4, with which they could speedily bridge the river at that point. I have a large ferry-boat secured on our side in Dam No. 4, with which I can cross over twenty-five or thirty men at a time. The enemy’s boats have no other guard than their hands on board and some canal hands, perhaps one hundred and twenty men in all. I think, with my company, I could, if desirable, destroy all of the boats by crossing the river in the night and burning them.

I obtained two kegs (twenty-five pounds each) of powder from Maryland on yesterday. I have more of the article now than I have immediate use for. I shall, however, continue to procure all that I can. Please direct me where to send it. If desired, I can forward it to Winchester. There is a good macadamized road from here to that place. If not already known to you, allow me to call your attention to a ford across the river at (just below) the mouth of Antietam Creek, four and a quarter miles below this point. It is a good ford, and is now passable, and the approaches on either side very good. My force of cavalry is too small to enable me to guard it.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

RO. L. DOYLE, Captain, Third Virginia Infantry, Commandant of Post.

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LYNCHBURG, VA., June 4, 1861.

R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General:

A telegram from Dublin Depot was received here last night by Lieutenant-Colonel Langhorne, by a person just from Parisburg, Giles County, stating that a large force from the northwest was advancing on Lewisburg. This morning the following telegram was received by him from the same place:

I send the dispatch for what it is worth. I cannot believe there is any truth in it. The country from which it comes has been very much stampeded with false rumors of insurrection on the line of the Virginia and Tennessee Road. To allay excitement, I would suggest that a special messenger be sent to Lewisburg by the Central Railroad.

J. A. EARLY, Colonel, Commanding.

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RICHMOND, June 4, 1861.

General J. B. FLOYD, Abingdon, Va.:

A dispatch from Colonel Early at Lynchburg states that a large force, ten thousand Northern troops, twelve hundred horse, by hard marches are pushing for the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad, and advancing through Fayette County to Lewisburg. Send reliable information as far as can be obtained. Press forward organization of brigade of riflemen, and, if report is true, call out all available force and protect railroad.

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

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RICHMOND, June 4, 1861.

General J. B. FLOYD, Wytheville, Va.

Four regiments-three from Mississippi and one from Alabama-have been ordered to proceed to this place via Knoxville, subject, however, to be stopped by you at Dublin Depot, should the news of invasion telegraphed by you to the President be confirmed, and this will be your authority to stop these troops and all others passing that route, should you deem it necessary. Commanding officers will so regard your order. One thousand muskets, with ammunition, have been ordered to Dublin Depot to your address. Acknowledge by telegraph.

L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War.

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RICHMOND, June 5, 1861.

General BEAUREGARD, Manassas Junction, Va.:

Send a messenger by the train to Strasburg, there to telegraph the following order to General J. E. Johnston, at Harper’s Ferry, viz:

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 64.}

ADJT. AND INSPR. GEN.’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 5, 1861.

...

IV. Brig. Gen. T. H. Holmes, Provisional Army, will proceed to Fredericksburg, Va., and assume command of the troops in that vicinity.

...

By command of the Secretary of War:

JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF ALEXANDRIA, Camp Pickens, June 5, 1861.

To the good People of the Counties of Loudoun, Fairfax, and Prince William:

A reckless and unprincipled tyrant has invaded your soil. Abraham Lincoln, regardless of all moral, legal, and constitutional restraints, has thrown his abolition hosts among you, who are murdering and imprisoning your citizens, confiscating and destroying your property, and committing other acts of violence and outrage too shocking and revolting to humanity to be enumerated. All rules of civilized warfare are abandoned, and they proclaim by their acts, if not on their banners, that their war-cry is “Beauty and booty.” All that is dear to man, your honor, and that of your wives and daughters, your fortunes, and your lives, are involved in this momentous contest.

In the name, therefore, of the constituted authorities of the Confederate States, in the sacred cause of constitutional liberty and self-government, for which we are contending, in behalf of civilization and humanity itself, I, G. T. Beauregard, brigadier-general of the Confederate States, commanding at Camp Pickens, Manassas Junction, do make this my proclamation, and invite and enjoin you by every consideration dear to the hearts of freemen and patriots, by the name and memory of your revolutionary fathers, and by the purity and sanctity of your domestic firesides, to rally to the standard of your State and country, and by every means in your power compatible with honorable warfare to drive back and expel the invaders from your land. I conjure you to be true and loyal to your country and her legal and constitutional authorities, and especially to be vigilant of the movements and acts of the enemy, so as to enable you to give the earliest authentic information to these headquarters or to the officers under my command. I desire to assure you that the utmost protection in my power will be extended to you all.

G. T. BEAUREGARD, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., June 6, 1861.

General R. E. LEE, Commander-in-Chief, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 3d instant by the last mail. My object in writing each of the several communications in relation to this command, was to ascertain exactly the manner in which the Government wishes it to be used, no instructions having {p.908} been given to me. Do these troops constitute a garrison or a corps of observation? If the former (which your letter of the 3d implies somewhat), it is to be considered that our only defensible position has a front of nearly two miles; that the supply of ammunition is not more than sufficient to repel one vigorous assault, and that the position could not then be evacuated, as the enemy would be nearer than ourselves to the only line of retreat-that through Loudoun. If as a corps of observation, it will have a task which the best troops would find difficult, for the enemy north of us can find crossing places too numerous for this force even to observe, and, while watching them, it is likely to be cut off by the troops from Ohio, who you know are commanded by a man of great ability. The operations of these troops and those from Pennsylvania will no doubt be combined. A retreat from the presence of an enemy is the most difficult of military operations to the best troops. To very new ones it is impossible. It would very soon become a flight.

You say that “the abandonment of Harper’s Ferry would be depressing to the cause of the South.” Would not the loss of five or six thousand men be more so? And, if they remain here, they must be captured or destroyed very soon after General McClellan’s arrival in the valley. Might it not be better (after the troops here have delayed the enemy as long by their presence as they prudently can) to transfer them to some point where they may still be useful?

We have, according to the statement of the Master of Ordnance, about forty rounds of ammunition, besides eighty-two thousand five hundred cartridges, just received, which makes an addition of about four rounds, as there are with them but twenty-two thousand five hundred caps.

Notice of the arrival of the Tennessee regiment in Winchester is just received. The colonel informs me that they are without percussion caps.

Our troops are not equipped for a campaign. More than two regiments are without cartridge-boxes. Most of them having-traveled by railroad, use trunks and valises, instead of knapsacks, and few are provided with shoes fit for marching.

With money I could have obtained more caps probably. I have not thought it worth while to provide a supply of provisions out of proportion to that of ammunition.

I offer these opinions for what they are worth, thinking it my duty to present them to you, and being anxious to conform closely to whatever general plan of operations has been determined upon. I beg you, therefore, to let me understand my position.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 6, 1861.

Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: Having been appointed brigadier-general of Provisional Forces, you will proceed, with the force placed at your disposal, by the most speedy route of communication, to the valley of the Kanawha. You will, by such means and agencies as may be within your control, rally the people of that valley and the adjoining counties to resist and repel {p.909} the invading army, which is reported to be on its march towards Lewisburg, which may as probably be directed towards the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad, by any of the various routes between that indicated in the valley of the Big Sandy River. You must needs rely upon the arms among the people to supply the requisite armament, and upon their valor and knowledge of the country as a substitute for organization and discipline. If there be any who have arms beyond their power or will to use you can take them with such arrangement as the case may indicate for future settlement. As your transportation will of course be very limited, and the service of such character as will indicate the lightest practicable train, the troops must be taught to rely upon the supplies of the country, but not be permitted to take them except through officers authorized for that purpose, and they should be instructed always to make prompt payment, or to give such receipts as will insure early and adequate remuneration. All officers commanding separate parties should be instructed to unite with the greatest vigilance and closest scrutiny the highest regard for the personal and property rights of all with whom they may come in contact, save the common enemy of the State, towards whom the rules of war, as known to civilized nations, will be applied.

The imperfect information possessed of the force and objects of the enemy do not permit specific instructions either as to your line of operations or the movements to be made. You must exercise a sound discretion, so that all your efforts may tend to the result of repelling the enemy if possible, and if not, of checking him as near the border of our territory as may be practicable. If the disparity of numbers should be very great, your defensive positions will for the present necessarily be retired to the mountain passes, and sorties against the enemy should always be so made as to embarrass and delay his movements without hazarding the loss of detachments from your command, teaching them to wait until you have the means to strike a blow which shall be effective. The several officers of experience who have been directed to report to you will be assigned by you to such duties as the necessities of the case may require.

General Floyd, who has been appointed a brigadier-general, has been specially charged with the protection of the line of the Tennessee and Virginia Railroad. It may well occur that a junction of your forces may become desirable, in which event each should exhibit his letters of instructions to the other, so that you may cordially co-operate to attain the common object of both. In the event of such a junction and whilst serving together, General Floyd, being senior by commission, will, according to the Rules and Articles of War, command the whole.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

JUNE 10, 1861.

P. S.-Such volunteers as may be engaged for your command and sent forward to Lewisburg within the next twenty days will be there mustered into service by companies and their transportation paid to that point, it being understood that these volunteers are not to be taken from any of the organized regiments or companies now in the service of the Confederate States.

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 7, 1861.

Maj. M. G. HARMAN, Commanding at Staunton, Va.:

MAJOR: Your letter of June 6 has been received,* and I desire to express my approbation of your conduct in forwarding re-enforcements of men and supplies of arms, ammunition, provisions, and clothing to Colonel Porterfield, at Beverly.

Brig. Gen. R. S. Garnett has been appointed to the command of the troops at Beverly and in that region, and will proceed there at once. All the troops that can be spared from this point will be forwarded as fast as practicable to General Garnett, and it is hoped that these, in addition to the forces now there and those which can be hereafter raised in that region, will form an adequate force for the protection of the northwestern part of the State.

I am, very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

* See p. 69.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 7, 1861.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 6th instant. The importance of the subject has induced me to lay it before the President, that he may be informed of your views. He places great value upon our retention of the command of the Shenandoah Valley and the position at Harper’s Ferry. The evacuation of the latter would interrupt our communication with Maryland, and injure our cause in that State. He does not think it probable that there will be an immediate attack by troops from Ohio.

General R. S. Garnett, C. S. Army, with a command of four thousand men, has been directed to Beverly, to arrest the progress of troops towards the Shenandoah Valley. Col. Angus W. McDonald has also been sent to interrupt the passage of troops over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. It is hoped by these means that you will be relieved from an attack in that direction, and will have merely to resist an attack in front from Pennsylvania.

An effort will be made to send you cartridge-boxes and knapsacks for the two regiments that are without them, and also an additional supply of ammunition. Greater mobility might be given to your forces by directing their surplus baggage, trunks, valises, &c., to be returned home or sent to some place of safety. Another regiment from Georgia has been ordered to report to you, viz, Colonel Gartrell’s. It is hoped that you will be able to be timely informed of the approach of troops against you, and retire, provided they cannot be successfully opposed. You must exercise your discretion and judgment in this respect, to insure, if possible, your safety. Precise instructions cannot be given you, but, being informed of the object of the campaign, you will be able to regulate its conduct to the best advantage.

I am, general, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS FORCES OF VIRGINIA, Norfolk, Va., June 7, 1861.

Maj. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commanding Forces of Virginia:

SIR: The great difficulty of communicating with and supplying our batteries on the Nansemond River has retarded the work on them, and been of serious inconvenience to us. I determined to put a small steamer on the river, and on the night before last Capt. A. Sinclair took the small steamer Roanoke, which Commodore Forrest had chartered and put at my disposal. Captain Sinclair ran her in very handsomely, without being discovered by the guard-boats of the enemy, and she is now on the river; and, in connection with the railroad to Suffolk, puts us in easy communication with all the batteries on the Nansemond River.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

BENJ. HUGER, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 25.}

HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 8, 1861.

By the Governor of Virginia.

A PROCLAMATION.

The delegates of the people of Virginia, in Convention assembled, having by their ordinance passed-April 25, 1861, adopted and ratified the Constitution of the Provisional Government of the Confederate States of America, ordained and established at Montgomery, Ala., on February 8, 1861, and the State of Virginia having been, by an act of the Confederate States, passed May 7, 1861, admitted as a State into the Confederate Government, and the President being, under the Constitution of the Provisional Government of the Confederate States, the Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of the Confederate States and of the militia of the several States when called into the service of the Confederate States:

Now, therefore, I, John Letcher, governor of Virginia, by and with the advice and consent of the executive council, do hereby transfer to the authorities of the Confederate States, by regiments, all the volunteer forces which have been mustered into the service of Virginia, and do order a like transfer, by regiments, battalions, squadrons, and companies, of all volunteers or militia, as the same shall be formed, and their services may be required.

I further hereby transfer to the authorities of the Confederate States the command of all the officers, seamen, and marines of the Provisional Navy of Virginia, for service in the Confederate States.

I do further order that all officers of the Virginia service now on duty in any of the departments of the staff continue to discharge their respective functions, under the direction and control of the President, until otherwise ordered; and that all quartermaster’s, commissary, and medical stores belonging to the State and in charge of said officers, to be turned over for the use of the Confederate States, upon proper receipts for the articles turned over, to be forwarded to the accounting officer for settlement. All moneys in charge of any of the departments will be forthwith returned into the treasury of the State.

I do further order all the Provisional Army of Virginia to respect and obey all lawful orders emanating from the President, or those commanding under his authority, and that the same may be incorporated, in whole or in part, into the Provisional Army of the Confederate States, at the pleasure of the President.

I do hereby authorize the use of all public property, munitions of war, &c., captured from the United States, the machinery at Harper’s Ferry excepted, by the President or those acting under his authority, for the common defense.

Given under my hand as governor, and under the seal of the State, at Richmond, this 6th day of June, A. D. 1861, and in the eighty-fifth year of the Commonwealth.

By the governor:

[SEAL.]

GEORGE W. MUNFORD, Secretary of the Commonwealth.

In compliance with the foregoing proclamation, the command of the military and naval forces of the State of Virginia is transferred to the Confederate States. All officers of said forces will obey the orders they may receive from the heads of the War and Navy Departments, respectively. Officers of the staff will receive their instructions from the chiefs of the several branches of the Confederate States Government.

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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LYNCHBURG, VA., June 8, 1861.

Col. R. S. GARNETT, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces:

COLONEL: I received your dispatch to-day, and answered it in the same way, but imperfectly. There is no company of cavalry here fully armed. Two companies have double-barreled shot-guns, bought by their counties, but no sabers, and are but beginning to drill. There are two companies tolerably well drilled, with forty or fifty sabers each. One has no guns and the other a few. There are two other companies, one of which has about forty sabers and a few guns, just commencing to drill. There are about a hundred flint-lock pistols, which have been gathered from old companies. A number of sabers, of old patterns, have also been collected. All the companies want cartridge-boxes and cap-boxes. I have sent off to Henry County for some sabers and pistols which I am informed are there. All the companies here are well mounted, and would make fine companies if there were arms for them.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. EARLY, Colonel, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS, Bethel Church, Va., June 8, 1861.

Colonel GARNETT:

SIR: I have the honor to report that I received official intelligence, on the 6th instant, from Major Montague, in command at this point, that this position, held by three companies Virginia volunteers, two howitzers, and two troops of cavalry, was about to be turned by a force from Newport News, as well as one up the Poquosin River. I ordered Colonel Stuart, in command of four companies of Virginia volunteers, {p.913} at that moment prepared to march, to Blow’s Mill and Grove Landing, and Colonel Hill’s regiment of North Carolina volunteers to proceed at once to meet the enemy at the point threatened. This movement I intended to have made, at all events, on the following day. Colonel Hill met the command of Major Montague at the Half-way House, the latter having retreated, after consultation with his officers, from this position. Colonel Hill dispatched Major Montague’s command to guard the Poquosin River, and proceeded with his regiment and two pieces of artillery to occupy and fortify this place. Colonel Stuart, in obedience to orders from me, proceeded to the bridge, on the Newport News road, which enters the York two miles above the Half-way House, and destroyed the bridge over the stream at that point, and blockaded all the country roads above it, thus rendering it almost impossible to turn this position without a march of at least twenty miles. On the same evening (the 6th) I inspected Colonel Stuart’s work, and slept at the Half-way House.

On the 7th I reconnoitered the Poquosin River and roads leading to it on this side, occupying the remainder of the (lay in devising means to supply the force here with provisions and forage.

The next day (yesterday) I arrived here, and found that the works under Colonel Hill had advanced very rapidly. In the course of these operations several collisions took place between our scouting parties and those of the enemy very creditable to our troops and citizens. Three of the latter, on horseback, met with nine of the enemy on foot, and an exchange of shots resulted in our killing one, wounding another, and taking a third prisoner. I remember the names of but two: Mr. Scott, of Texas, and Mr. Ben. Phillips, of Elizabeth City.

Previous to the arrival of Colonel Hill at this post, Captain Werth, of Virginia volunteers, then in command, proceeded to Newport News, with a small body of horsemen, for the purpose of reconnoitering. Being at the head of his men, he found himself in the enemy’s lines before he was aware of it, and, coming suddenly upon a working force consisting of a commissioned officer and over twenty privates, he killed the commissioned officer and one private with his revolver, and the rest fled into camp, crying out, “The Virginia Horse! The Virginia Horse!” The troops encamped on the outside of the trenches rushed into them in confusion, amid which he retired to his command and returned home. Since then Newport News has been re-enforced by at least one thousand men.

Yesterday, at 1 o’clock, I received a note from Colonel Hill, stating that a considerable body of Federal troops were advancing towards his post. The cavalry having been temporarily withdrawn to the Half-Way House for forage, I immediately dispatched the Hampton Troop, Captain Phillips, to report to Colonel Hill, and proceeded to this place in person. On my arrival here I found that Colonel Hill had dispatched a portion of Company F, North Carolina regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Lee, and a howitzer, under Major Randolph, and another detachment of Company E, same regiment, under Major Lane, and one howitzer, under Lieutenant Wight, by different roads, to attack, and, if possible, cut off this party. The Federal troops were robbing a house when the detachment first named came in sight of them. They fled, about eighty in number. Our party gave chase. Not being able to overtake, Major Randolph discharged his howitzer into them, which appeared to take effect. They fled in great confusion, after having fired several shots, leaving one soldier, who was made prisoner, and who is now in camp. In the mean time, our other detachment, under Major Lane, met with a party of Federal troops, upon whom they fired, with what effect was not {p.914} known, and made one prisoner, who is also in our camp. Both of these belonged to the New York volunteers. In further explanation of this affair, I inclose an extract of a note just received from Captain Werth, on picket guard. He says:

I inclose a note in pencil from a perfectly reliable source. I omitted to state that, in place of Colonel Stuart’s, I ordered Colonel August’s whole regiment to proceed to Grove Landing, and to fortify at once strongly, in such a way as to protect his musketry and make a landing extremely difficult. Several regiments of troops ought to be in that neighborhood immediately. Grove Wharf is held ready to be destroyed, but it will take some time to effect it thoroughly. In mean time I would respectfully suggest that several steamers, loaded with provisions, wagons, harness, mules, ammunition, and men, be ordered to that point and landed, and that Mr. Haskins, who I believe is the owner of many steamboats, be directed to have one far down the river, to watch the enemy while these operations are being effected, and that as soon as they are concluded orders direct from headquarters be sent to Colonel August to burn the wharf immediately and effectually.

This command has been on the point of starvation here, on account of want of transportation. The means of transportation are absolutely necessary to enable me to keep the field. I can scarcely support this small command, and am exceedingly anxious to have the Louisiana and Georgia regiments in a similar position to this on the Warwick road. During last night I had a bridge built and thrown over Back River, to enable me to get at the enemy more easily. I hope to have another one in front of Hampton in a few nights. Both to be destroyed as occasion may require.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Colonel, Commanding Southeastern Department.

[Inclosure.]

WINDER’S, VA., June 9, 1861.

Colonel MAGRUDER:

I did not return from Hampton last night till after 11 o’clock. From all I could learn, I am satisfied that Hampton is within a few days to be occupied as a military post by the Federal troops. Probably the affair of yesterday may hasten this event. That the town is strongly guarded every night, and that during the night all is quiet, but during the day, particularly yesterday, all sorts of plundering was going on, both in town and country; that Colonel Duryea has been superseded by Brigadier-General Pierce; that no protection or right of ingress or egress, in relation to Hampton, would be allowed to any but those who would take the oath of allegiance to the United States. This, in a nut-shell, is about the amount of the information I gained. I learned also from a Captain Wilson that it was in contemplation soon to attack Yorktown with forty thousand men. I could ascertain no suspicion of a military position below Yorktown. I heard nothing of a naval attack at York.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 67.}

ADJT. AND INSPR. GEN.’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 8, 1861.

...

III. Brig. Gen. R. S. Garnett, Provisional Army, will proceed to Staunton, and assume command of the troops to operate in Northwestern Virginia.

...

By command of the Secretary of War:

JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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CAMP MASON, Leesburg, June 9, 1861.

Lieut. Col. THOS. JORDAN, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:

SIR: Inclosed please find a memorial from a committee on behalf of the citizens of this county, asking for additional forces for the defense of this point. If it is the design of the military authorities to defend this portion of Virginia, then it is very important that additional forces should be concentrated here. I feel very sensibly the importance of this fertile country to the subsistence department of our army and that of the enemy. Besides, if a good force be placed here, it will cut off the enemy from one of the routes to Harper’s Ferry. I earnestly second the wishes of the petitioners, and ask that at least twenty-five hundred men be sent here.

I have just learned from reliable information that there are ten canal-boats in Georgetown loaded with provisions and ammunition. I am assured from a clergyman who has been across the river that this information is reliable. With the additional-force asked for we would probably be able to cut to pieces any force that they may send up, under the impression that we have only a few hundred men here. Send the force asked for if the exigencies of the service will allow it.

I have no information of any movement of the enemy on this side the river.

Your dispatch was received to-day in regard to tearing up railroad and burning the ties. Will you inform me whether I am to put the troops here at that work and stop their drill? The guard duty here is very heavy, and if a force has to be detailed for the purpose indicated it will break up our drill, which is very important to our raw, undisciplined troops. Your orders shall be obeyed.

Very respectfully,

EPPA HUNTON, Colonel, Commanding.

[Inclosure.]

LEESBURG, VA., June 9, 1861.

Col. EPPA HUNTON:

The undersigned, a committee in behalf of the citizens of Loudoun County, respectfully represent that it is our impression, in which we believe you concur, that the military force at Camp Mason, under your command, is totally inadequate to the protection and defense of this portion of the State of Virginia, which we are assured is attractive to the enemy, for the following reasons:

1st. We border upon the Potomac River, which forms our boundary {p.916} for thirty miles, upon which there are not less than thirteen fords and ferries. Leesburg, the county seat, is within four miles of the nearest crossing. We are within thirty miles of Washington City, whence we can be approached by the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which runs parallel with the Potomac River, and by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad at the Point of Rocks.

2d. We are a large wheat and corn growing country, with heavy crops of the former now nearly matured. There are not less than twenty thousand cattle now being grazed in the county, a large proportion of which are fat and ready for market, and at least one thousand of these are upon the flats of the river. This is exclusive of the dairy stock, hogs, sheep, &c. There are large amounts of flour, bacon, and grain of last year’s growth. A very important item must not be omitted; that is, a large stock of the finest horses, suited to cavalry and artillery service.

We deem it well worthy of serious consideration that there is a large Union element in Loudoun, and that it is the policy of the Federal administration to intervene in their behalf. In view of these considerations, and of the fact that the Federal papers have frequently spoken of Leesburg as an eligible position for a camp for the Federal forces, by reason of its healthfulness and the productiveness of the surrounding country, we feel it highly important that a force of troops shall be immediately stationed here sufficient to successfully repel invasion, and respectfully beg that you will exert your influence to attain this end.

Respectfully,

THO. W. EDWARDS ET AL.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 10, 1861.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

SIR: The sentiments ascribed to many of the inhabitants of the towns in Virginia on and near the Potomac border may render it important to place them, for a time at least, under close surveillance.

I am instructed to state that Mr. James M. Mason, who, from his residence in that quarter of the State and intimate knowledge of its inhabitants, can probably best advise you, has been instructed by the President to indicate to you such points as in his judgment should be placed under such care, and it is the wish of the President that Mr. Mason’s suggestions in this regard should be considered by you, and, so far as consistent with your judgment and authority, that you place it in his power to give them effect.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 10, 1861.

General T. H. HOLMES, Commanding, &c., Fredericksburg, Va.:

GENERAL: It is probable that, realizing the inutility of cannonading the batteries at Aquia Creek with smooth-bore guns, the naval force {p.917} of the United States will hereafter employ rifled cannon, of large caliber, at long range. It is reported that such means will be employed. It is therefore advisable that the batteries should be rendered as secure as possible by the application of some such means as were so successfully employed at Charleston. Railroad-iron, laid at an angle of about thirty degrees with the horizon, on the exterior slope, the upper ends not projecting above the exterior crest, would probably answer the purpose. If such an arrangement can be made, you are authorized to procure the iron and apply it where in your judgment it may be required.

It is not unlikely that for the attack of these batteries the enemy will provide himself with iron-plated vessels. In this event the shots from the batteries should be so directed as to strike the water short of but near the vessel, so that after the rebound they might strike below any eave which may be presented near the water line and at right angles to her sides. The accompanying sketch* expresses the idea herein contained.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 10, 1861.

Col. EPPA HUNTON, Commanding, Leesburg, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 8th instant has been received, and it is hoped that you have accomplished the destruction of the bridges upon the Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad, and otherwise rendered the road unserviceable to the enemy. Unless any of the rolling stock can be transferred to the Orange or Manassas Railroad, it must be destroyed immediately. Should it not already be demolished, the gondola and flats must not be permitted to fall into the hands of the enemy.

Lieut. Col. C. C. Cocke has been ordered to duty with your regiment. General G. T. Beauregard is in command of all the forces in Prince William, Fairfax, and Loudoun, through whom you should make your reports, and from whom you will receive instructions. Your fetter of the 8th has been referred to him for his information and action. It is necessary to destroy the navigation of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, to prevent its being used by the enemy, and you will take measures to do so effectually, by cutting the dams at Seneca and Edwards Ferry, and blowing up the Monocacy Aqueduct.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 10, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:

COLONEL: In answer to your letter of the 9th instant, just received, I take pleasure in expressing my gratification at the movements and dispositions that you have made, and hope that you may be able to {p.918} restrict the advance of the enemy and securely maintain your own position.

On the day of my return to Richmond forty-two wagons were ordered to be sent you. Twelve were sent day before yesterday, twelve on yesterday, twelve more will be sent to-morrow, and the others as soon as possible.

As you are aware that it is probable, when an effort is made to attack you, it will be both by land and water, I take this occasion of urging upon you the importance of pressing the construction of the batteries for water and land defense.

Yours, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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MILL POINT, POCAHONTAS COUNTY, VA., June 10, 1861.

President JEFFERSON DAVIS:

DEAR SIR: Having the best interests of our country at heart, and having taken an active part in the welfare of this county from the first appearance of danger to the present hour, I feel confident you will hear me. While I have no doubt of-the success of the South in casting off the Northern yoke ultimately, I must say that this is the last appeal from me, at least for the protection of this section-this county and Greenbrier-that I ever expect to makes and I very much fear that it is already too late for you to prevent our being overrun to some extent, perhaps totally. Our interests have no doubt been cared for, but there has been too little energy at work, and the view has been a short-sighted one. Three weeks since it would have been quite an easy matter to have taken possession of all Western Virginia, except Wheeling, and perhaps that also; but now it is very doubtful if twenty thousand of the best-armed men we have in the State will do it. The few troops we have had out there have had no other effect than to gather in a still stronger force of the enemy, and they are doing their best to carry off and destroy everything upon which a large army can subsist, having entire control of all the railroads and almost the whole country. If not driven back soon, we have no hope of anything being left to support our army now or hereafter, and you will find it next to impossible to take provisions for an effective force a distance of one hundred or one hundred and fifty miles, on common road wagons, from the Central Railroad. Two weeks since this thing was not half so gloomy. In less than two more we shall be overrun, unless there is a far greater force than we have any knowledge of being sent us. The enemy is now within a few hours’ march of our county lines. We have no force at all beyond Huttonsville, and a great part of it far this side-some on the Parkersburg and some on the Marline Bottom roads. Our force all told is not more than from twelve hundred to two thousand. The last account we had from them was on the 7th. They were not more than half armed, and had not ammunition sufficient for more than one round to the man. I sent fifty miles to Covington, and only got seventy-five pounds of powder, but no lead. We have got some fifty pounds of old lead pipe, &c., which we sent on this morning, with powder. I wish I could tell you our situation.

Our county is loyal to the South; only thirteen votes against secession; population less than four thousand. We laid a war levy of $15,000. Have sent out four volunteer companies, and in all nearly five hundred {p.919} soldiers out of about six hundred and fifty militia. There are not men sufficient left to raise our crops or save our harvests. We have urged our governor time after time, again and again, to grant us arms, ammunition, and men. Our wants are this hour still further than ever from being supplied. Last night at 11 o’clock we started a special messenger to the governor or yourself, which is the fourth time we have done so. The enemy still advancing, our danger increasing, our arms and men nearly all gone from the county, no ammunition nor hopes of getting any in time to stay the enemy, we have done all that we can do up to this hour. Will you help us? Can you help us in time? One short week, and I fear it will be too late. Many of our best families have their carriages in readiness to move; many more are having their wagons prepared. All that can go I fear will soon be on the move. Then woe to those who are left. Nothing but destruction awaits our houses and barns. Our waving fields of grain and grass, our thousands of cattle, they will soon possess. On my own grass I have from one hundred and fifty to two hundred head of good beef cattle. I have no hope of anything being saved unless you can send on a large force at once.

It seems there has been no one capable of managing the business out northwest. They have suffered themselves to be routed and robbed of everything, or nearly so, and stripped of ammunition and clothes. Provisions could still be had in the Randolph Valley if the enemy were removed. One of our officers told me on yesterday that there was no question but an army of twenty-five thousand men could be provisioned for a considerable length of time out there. Many large farmers would willingly give all they have. The coming harvest is promising, and will soon be ripe.

Our enemies declare they are determined to take Pocahontas and Greenbrier. This our officers told me this morning, and this will take them to the top of the Alleghany Mountains.

I have now, Mr. President, in a homely manner, tried to tell you a few stubborn facts, and it does seem to me that our case is a hard one. I have three sons in the Army. Two of them came home from the West for this purpose. I have spent all my time for more than a month past trying to aid, and took one trip to Richmond, and now I am done writing. I will take my rifle, shot-gun, pistol, and cutlass, relying upon the God of battles, and go to meet the enemy.

Ask Col. Paul McNeil, in Convention, if you doubt one assertion.

Respectfully, yours,

JOHN H. RUCKMAN.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 11, 1861.

General B. HUGER, Commanding, &c., Norfolk, Va.:

GENERAL: The preparations which are understood to be making at Old Point Comfort indicate an early movement of the U. S. troops. While so many points are threatened, it is difficult to say which may be attacked. Great vigilance and alacrity will, therefore, be required at every point, to prevent surprise. The first of the water defenses that will be reached in approaching Norfolk will be those at Sewell’s Point and Craney Island. During my visit at Norfolk these points were in a weak condition and feebly garrisoned. I hope the defenses have {p.920} been completed and provided with sufficient garrisons. Each should be commanded by an intelligent and active officer, and of some experience. I hope there are many in your command. The batteries at both places should be provided with works, to prevent their being taken in reverse.

Should the enemy desire to cut oft your communication with Richmond, the possession of the battery at Pig Point would become important to them. Its defenses should, therefore, be looked to, and every arrangement made to prevent its surprise and capture. The troops that I have endeavored to collect at Suffolk, being prepared for service, under an efficient officer, may enable you to hold command of the railroad and prevent its destruction. Should a movement be made upon that point, information should be immediately communicated, if possible, to Weldon and this city, that troops may be concentrated from these points and Norfolk to oppose it. It is thought probable, from the conduct of the enemy at other points, that when an attack is made it may be expected at the dawn of day. Every preparation should, therefore, be made at night for such an event.

The officer commanding the troops near Hampton has been directed to watch the movements of the enemy encamped at Newport News, &c., and should preparations for their embarkation be discovered, to press upon them, with a view both of retarding their embarkation and of retaining as large a force as possible in their camp. No great reliance can be placed upon this operation, however, unless it can be discovered that the batteries on York or James Rivers are not to be attacked, as the security of the batteries will have to be attended to by the troops on that line.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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LLOYD’S, VA., June 12, 1861.

His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, &c.:

MY DEAR SIR: Since I left Richmond I have been thinking of the rumor that the real attack upon Richmond would be made from the Rappahannock River. Whether the plan has been laid I know not; but I fear it is feasible, and, as you cannot be acquainted with the topography of the country, I will say why I think it practicable. The only defense to bar the passage of our steamers on the Rappahannock, up to the head of tide, is a little fort (Lowry), which is now being erected, about thirty miles from the mouth of the river. This fort is four and a half miles below Tappahannock, the county seat of Essex. Should an army be landed a little below the fort, it would cost but little to silence it, and then the whole Rappahannock Valley would be thrown open to the hostile fleet. This valley abounds in supplies of food, and is thickly populated with negroes. From Tappahannock to the junction of the Central with the Fredericksburg and Richmond Railroad, in Hanover, is a distance of from twenty-five to thirty miles. The obstacles to the march are mainly to be found in the Mattapony and Pamunkey Rivers. The Mattapony, where it would be crossed on the route, is so narrow and shallow as to present a military obstacle of small importance. The Pamunkey, near the junction, is fordable, except at high water. Both have wooden bridges, but these might be burned. Once at the junction, an invading army might take either of two railroads, and reach Richmond {p.921} in a run of twenty miles; or it might, by a march of forty miles, upon the Central Railroad, put a strong force at Gordonsville, the junction of the Lynchburg and Alexandria Railroads, and cut off the communications of our Manassas Gap army. The last could not be re-enforced from the south or west, except from the valley, through the Manassas Gap Railroad; nor with the Hanover Junction in the hands of an enemy, could Richmond be re-enforced, except from the south side of James River. As a strategic point, would not Hanover Junction be more valuable to an enemy than Harper’s Ferry itself? Indeed, would not its possession secure Harper’s Ferry? In what way can this be prevented at the least cost in men and money? I answer as follows:

About eighteen or twenty miles below Fort Lowry, and eight or ten miles below Urbana tone of the reputed places of her sound debarkation), is a point from which the channel can be commanded. I forget the name of the point, but the Coast Survey chart (to be found in Richmond) will show it, and Lieutenant-Governor Montague, who lives in that county, can describe it. I am told that this chart proves that a fort at this point, in Middlesex, on the south side of the river, and one opposite to it on the north side would command the channel completely. Indeed, no vessel could pass up at a greater distance than one and a quarter miles from the Middlesex Point, which is within the range of rifled cannon. This being done, the enemy (if they landed with a view to a march upon Hanover Junction or Richmond) must land below the fort, which is below Urbana.

Now, at Urbana is Urbana Creek (a deep creek), bounded by marshes, which runs to within two or three miles of the Dragon Swamp, a military obstacle of the first class. A part of this distance of two or three miles was densely wooded ten years ago, and I suspect that not more than half of it is as yet cleared. On such a neck of land a small force could retard the advance of an army long enough to assemble in sufficient strength to resist it. The length, too, of the march would be thus increased some thirty miles to the junction and fifteen or twenty miles to Richmond. There would also be another advantage in these lower forts. Nearly the whole valley of the river and most valuable oyster beds would be protected. These oyster beds, without these forts, lying below Fort Lowry, will be in the enemy’s hands. I know that there are some difficulties in throwing up these forts. Our steamers are in the river, but still, with a covering force, and with even a small covering force, it could be done, I presume.

On the northern neck side, the three lower counties of Richmond, Lancaster, and Northumberland could easily furnish one thousand men, without taking away the men from Fredericksburg. On the southern side the counties of Essex, Caroline, King and Queen, and Middlesex could furnish twelve or fifteen hundred men without robbing any of the present forts. The men on the southern side, if placed under the command of a regular officer (such a man as Major Heth is described to be), and aided with a battery, would not only cover the fort on the Middlesex Point, but would, perhaps, resist the march of an army between Urbana Creek and the Dragon Swamp long enough to procure re-enforcements, through steamers from Fredericksburg (where there are two steamers), also to scour the country along the line of march. Unless this covering force could be commanded by a good officer, and a “regular,” it would not be of much assistance; but under a good commander it might be relied upon.

I know it is presumptuous in me to offer military counsel. No man could know less of such matters. But there are topographical details {p.922} with which you could not be acquainted, and so much hangs upon the defensive measures now being taken that I have ventured this letter, although I feel that your time is too important to be wasted on idle suggestions.

If you will show this letter to General Lee, I think he will confirm my topographical description of the country.

Whether the strategic importance of the Hanover Junction be such as I suppose, and whether the march upon it be as practicable as seems to me, both you and he can judge far better than I can; but I cannot be mistaken in supposing that the subject is worthy of your attention and study.

I ought to add to this letter (although it is already a long one) that, notwithstanding Fort Lowry, troops could be landed on the Rappahannock at not more than thirty-five miles from the Hanover Junction.

Very truly and faithfully, your friend,

R. M. T. HUNTER.

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HEADQUARTERS, Harper’s Ferry, Va., June 12, 1861.

General R. E. LEE, Commanding:

GENERAL: I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 10th instant informing me that two regiments from Lynchburg have been ordered to report at Harper’s Ferry. Permit me to urge most respectfully the importance of equipping the troops ordered to this place before putting them en route. Ammunition and means of transportation cannot be obtained here. Without them, additional troops only make this command more helpless. Before the arrival of the Tennessee and Georgia regiments, our supply of ammunition and means of transportation were far too small. The further division makes us no more able to fight, and unable to march. It is much to be regretted, I think, that the Tennessee regiment was admitted into the service. It is without accouterments, instruction, or subordination.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Richmond, June 13, 1861.

General BEAUREGARD, Comdg., &c., Manassas Junction, Va.:

MY DEAR GENERAL: Colonel Jones delivered to me your letter of the 12th instant,* and, as suggested by you, I conversed with him of the matters to which it related. Your information may be more accurate than we possess in relation to the purpose of the enemy, and I will briefly reply to you on the hypothesis which forms the basis of your suggestions.

If the enemy commences operations by attack upon Harper’s Ferry, I do not perceive why General Johnston should be unable, even before overwhelming numbers, to retire behind the positions where the enemy would approach him in reverse. It would seem to me not unreasonable to expect that before he reached Winchester, the terminus of the railroad in his possession, the people of the fertile and populous valley {p.923} would rise in mass to aid him in repelling the invader. But suppose it should be otherwise, he could still, by retiring to the passes on the Manassas Railroad and its adjacent mountains, probably check the progress of the enemy, and prevent him from either taking possession of the valley or passing to the rear of your position. We hope soon to re-enforce you to an extent equal to the strength you require by the junction of General Johnston, and I cannot doubt but that you will agree with me that you would then be better circumstanced to advance upon Alexandria than if General Johnston, by withdrawing from the valley, had left the enemy the power to pass to your rear, to cut your line of communication, and advance to attack you in reverse while you were engaged with the enemy in front.

Concurring fully with you in the effect which would be produced by possession of Arlington Heights and Alexandria, if your rear is at the same time sufficiently covered, it is quite clear that, if the case should be otherwise, your possession, if acquired, would be both brief and fruitless.

To your request that a concerted plan of operations should be adopted, I can only reply that the present position and unknown purpose of the enemy require that our plan should have many alterations. I have noticed your converging lines upon Richmond, and it can hardly be necessary to remind you that we have not at this time the transportation which would enable us to move upon those lines as described. Should the fortune of war render it necessary to retire our advance columns, they must be brought mainly upon railroads, and that of Harper’s Ferry would come by your present position. It would therefore be a necessity that General Johnston’s columns should make a junction with yours before yours retired; but I have not anticipated the necessity of your retreat, and have struggled rather to increase your force, and look hopefully forward to see you enabled to assume the offensive. Had I been less earnestly engaged in providing for yours and other commands, I should have had the pleasure of visiting you before this date.

Two regiments have been sent forward, neither of which had reached you at the date of your letters, and you will soon receive further re-enforcements. They are not trained troops, but I think they are better than those of the enemy, and the capacity which you have recently exhibited successfully to fight with undisciplined citizens justifies the expectation that you will know how to use such force as we are able to furnish.

Very truly,

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

* Not found.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 13, 1861.

Gen. JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, Commanding, &c., Harper’s Ferry, Va.:

GENERAL: The opinions expressed by Major Whiting in his letter to you, and on which you have indorsed your concurrence, have been duly considered. You had been heretofore instructed to exercise your discretion as to retiring from your position at Harper’s Ferry and taking the field to check the advance of the enemy. It is to be inferred from the papers now transmitted that you have considered the authority given as not equal to the necessity of the case-that you must needs {p.924} retire before the enemy was present, or otherwise that you would be unable to avoid capture, and would not be permitted to fight in retreat. In all the directions which have been given to you you will not have failed to perceive that, relying equally on your sound judgment and soldierly qualifications, it was intended that you should judge of the necessities of your condition and of the means best adapted to answer the general purpose of the campaign. As the movements of the enemy could not be foreseen, so it was impossible to give you specific directions, and the cause of the country could only be confided to one who, like yourself; was deemed entirely competent to decide upon events as they arose.

We have no reliable information that the enemy is at Cumberland, and had hoped that he could not so soon be able to reach that point. We had not anticipated that he could turn your position without your being apprised of it in time to make your movements conform to that fact. As you seem to desire, however, that the responsibility of your retirement should be assumed here, and as no reluctance is felt to bear any burden which the public interests require, you will consider yourself authorized, whenever the position of the enemy shall convince you that he is about to turn your position and thus deprive the country of the use of yourself and the troops under your command, to destroy everything at Harper’s Ferry-the bridge across the Potomac, platforms, and trestle work included-which could serve the purpose of the enemy, and retire upon the railroad towards Winchester, carrying with you all the rolling stock and destroying the road behind you. Should the people of Winchester and the surrounding valley rally to your aid in such numbers as to enable you to resume active operations, you will avail yourself of the first opportunity to attack the enemy, and endeavor to drive him from his purpose of invasion, and to do as much else as possible. The ineffective portion of your command, together with the baggage and whatever else would impede your operations in the field, it would be well to send without delay to the Manassas road.

Should you not be sustained by the population of the valley, so as to enable you to turn upon the enemy before reaching Winchester, you will continue slowly to retire to the Manassas road, upon some of the passes on which it is hoped you will be able to make an effective stand even against a very superior force. To this end it might be well to send your engineer to make a reconnaissance and to construct such temporary works as may be useful and proper.

The position of Harper’s Ferry, as has been heretofore stated, is deemed valuable because of its relation to Maryland and as the entrance to the valley of Virginia, the possession of which by the enemy will separate the eastern and western sections of the State from each other, deprive us of the agricultural resources of that fertile region, and bring in its train political consequences which it is well believed you cannot contemplate without the most painful emotions. If, therefore, much reluctance has been exhibited to a retirement from your position, you will not fail to appreciate the motives which have led to it. Should you move so far as to make a junction with General Beauregard, the enemy would be free immediately to occupy the valley of Virginia and to pass to the rear of Manassas Junction; so that, unless the proposed attack upon Alexandria should be prompt and successful, you would soon be cut off both from re-enforcements and supplies until an army could be sent large enough to defeat that before which you had retired, and you know too well our condition to render it necessary that you should be informed that this could hardly be done before the enemy could make a {p.925} conjoint attack upon you by his armies both front and rear. Troops are now coming forward from the Southern States, and it is to be expected that within a week General Beauregard’s position may be re-enforced by troops equal in number to that which is reported as the effective portion of your command. If you have until then covered the valley of Virginia, General Beauregard may thus with more probable success advance upon Alexandria than by the junction of your command with his by surrendering the valley of Virginia to the enemy. It is not expected that you will believe that mere numbers will give you strength, yet it is hoped that the people fighting for their homes and their liberties, with even a small number of instructed troops, may enable you to operate successfully against such forces as are opposed to you; and it is but justice to add that the greatest confidence is placed upon your capacity to inspire others with the soldierly qualities you have so often exhibited, and that the most unlimited confidence is reposed in you both as a commander and a patriot. For these reasons it has been with reluctance that any attempt was made to give you specific instructions, and you will accept assurances of the readiness with which the freest exercise of discretion on your part will be sustained.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector-General.

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HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 13, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:

COLONEL: I have had the honor to receive your communication of the 10th instant,* and I take pleasure in expressing my gratification at the gallant conduct of the troops under your command and my approbation of the dispositions made by you, resulting, as they did, in the rout of the enemy. I have referred your letter to the President of the Confederate States, that he may be fully informed of the operations so successfully conducted by you and of the recommendations you have seen fit to make.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

* Report of action at Big Bethel, p. 91.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, June 13, 1861.

Hon. J. M. MASON, Winchester, Va.:

SIR: The President has sent to General Johnston to send an officer to Winchester (Colonel Jackson suggested), to raise the people to resist the enemy, said to have advanced to Romney. Your assistance to that end is desired.

General Johnston finds himself unable to maintain his position at Harper’s Ferry, but the President still hopes, if compelled to retire by the enemy passing to his rear, that he will fall back upon the people of the valley, assembled in such force as to enable him to assume the offensive, and perhaps to crush the invading column.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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HDQRS. DEP’T. OF NORTHWESTERN VIRGINIA, Yeager’s, 24 miles south of Huttonsville, Va., June 13, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army:

SIR: I overtook Colonel Heck’s command at this point to-day, seven hundred and fifty strong, with four pieces of cannon. I shall reach Colonel Porterfield to-morrow. Accounts from the front are not very encouraging, very contradictory; but, as the information, in my judgment, is not reliable, I will defer giving you details until I reach Huttonsville, and can get something authentic. The condition of things is due to the want of proper officers to conduct the reconnoitering. The cavalry of this region is entirely raw; the officers without experience or confidence. The purpose of this letter is to beg, urgently, that three or four officers of experience, to conduct reconnoitering parties, may be sent me at the earliest possible moment.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. S. GARNETT, Brigadier-General.

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RICHMOND, VA., June 13, 1861-1.30 p. m.

Col. R. C. W. RADFORD, Lynchburg, Va.:

Use your discretion in sending cavalry companies to Manassas by rail or road. Lose as little time as possible. There are here no arms for cavalry of any kind.

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS OF THE VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond, Va., June 14, 1861.

His Excellency JOHN LETCHER, Governor of Virginia:

SIR: The defensive works about Richmond are progressing so slowly, from the want of laborers, that I think it proper to call your attention to the subject, that you may submit it to the city council for their consideration and action. I beg leave, also, to suggest that all available persons in and about Richmond be organized for the defense of the city; that they provide themselves with such arms as each can procure, and that arrangements be made for the fabrication of suitable ammunition. These are intended as precautionary measures, which can better be made now than upon the eve of the emergency, should it arise.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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WINCHESTER, VA., June 14, 1861.

General WILLIAM H. RICHARDSON, Adjutant-General Virginia Militia:

GENERAL: At 10 o’clock this morning I issued an order dismissing the militia which I had called into service. I did so in consequence of the retreat of the enemy from Romney and the arrival at this place of several regiments of the Confederate forces. In dismissing the militia, I repeated the order for frequent drilling, and for holding themselves in {p.927} readiness for service at a moment’s warning. The militia obeyed the call to arms with great alacrity and with considerable unanimity. I have directed the proper rolls, &c., to be prepared and returned.

We received no arms from the State or Confederate States authorities. About one-third of the militia who turned out had no arms at all; the others had their own, or such as they could procure.

Very respectfully,

JAMES H. CARSON, Brigadier-General Sixteenth Brigade, Virginia Militia.

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YORKTOWN, VA., June 15, 1861.

General R. E. LEE:

SIR: As I am left in temporary command of this post, I hope that I will be pardoned for making a few suggestions. The enemy is burning for revenge for his total rout at Bethel Church. There can be no doubt that he will attempt to take this point either by a night surprise or by a regular siege. We are totally unprepared for either alternative. The development of our lines is so great that they cannot be manned by less than six thousand troops. Now we have no siege guns at all. Our forces are now divided between Bethel Church, Grove Landing, and Williamsburg. We are therefore liable to be beaten in detail with our present weak force, and the York line may be lost at any moment. At this time there are scarce three thousand men in Yorktown, and our lines cannot possibly be defended with fewer than six thousand. Permit me, then, to urge that more troops may be sent here, and that some dozen siege guns be mounted in our batteries. I understand that the Rifle Rangers from Florida are exceedingly anxious to come here, and, as they are all experienced hunters, their services would be of great value to us.

With great respect,

D. H. HILL, Colonel First Regiment North Carolina Volunteers.

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HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., June 15, 1861.

His Excellency JOHN LETCHER, Governor of Virginia:

SIR: Agreeably to your request, I submit a statement of the military and naval preparation for the defense of Virginia, from the period of her separation from the U. S. Government to the date of transfer of the military operations of the State to the Confederate Government. Arrangements were first made for the establishment of batteries to prevent the ascent of our enemy by hostile vessels. As soon as an examination was made for the selection of sites, their construction was begun and their armament and defense committed to the Virginia Navy. Preparations were also begun for receiving into the service of the State volunteer companies, and for organizing, arming, and equipping them. Mustering officers were appointed, rendezvous established, and provision made for their subsistence and shelter. The primary estimate of the number of troops, of all arms, required, based upon the points to be defended, amounted to fifty-one thousand men. The estimated quota of each portion of the State has been furnished, except from the western {p.928} section. Arrangements were made for calling out the volunteers from the western section at the same time and in the same manner as from the eastern section, but as yet it has been feebly responded to.

Complete returns from the troops in the field have not, and, from the nature of things, cannot for some time be received; but, from the best source of information within our reach, the number of Virginia troops is about 35,000. This amount probably falls below the real number, for, referring to the report of the Colonel of Ordnance, it will be seen that he has issued 2,054 rifles and carbines and 41,604 muskets, in addition to pistols and sabers to the cavalry. Thirteen thousand arms have also been issued from Lexington, making a total of 56,658. Seven thousand of those from Lexington and several thousand from the arsenal at Richmond have been issued to troops from other States; but as many of the Virginia companies, supposed to be about 5,000 men, were armed and equipped when received into the service of the State, should the number of unarmed companies from other States not differ materially from the number of armed companies of the State, the number of Virginia troops in the field may be assumed to be about 40,000. When it is remembered that this body of men were called from a state of profound peace to one of unexpected war, you will have reason to commend the alacrity with which they left their homes and families and prepared themselves for the defense of the State. The assembling of men, however, was not the most difficult operation. Provision for their instruction, subsistence, equipment, clothing, shelter, and transportation in the field required more time and labor. Ammunition of every kind had to be manufactured. The carriages of the guns for river, land, and field service had to be made, with the necessary implements, caissons, battery wagons, &c. One hundred and fifteen guns for field service have thus been provided, from which twenty light batteries, of four gulls each, have been furnished, with the requisite horses, harness, &c.

For the defense of James River, two batteries and two steamers have been provided, mounting, altogether, forty guns, ranging in caliber from 32-pounders to 8 and 9 inch columbiads. Arrangements are also in process for mounting sixty guns, of different weights, on the defenses around Richmond, and a naval battery of 6 to 12 pounder howitzers is in process of organization.

On York River three batteries have been constructed, mounting thirty guns, of caliber similar to the guns on James River.

Sites for batteries on the Potomac have also been selected, and arrangements were in progress for their construction; but the entire command of that river being in the possession of the United States Government, a larger force is required for their security than could be devoted to that purpose. The batteries at Aquia Creek have only been prepared. Twelve guns are in position there.

On the Rappahannock River a four-gnu battery of 32 pounders and. 8-inch columbiads has been erected.

Six batteries have been erected on the Elizabeth River, to guard the approaches to Norfolk and the navy-yard. They mount eighty-five guns, 32-pounders and 8 and 9 inch columbiads.

To prevent the ascent of the Nansemond River and the occupation of the railroad from Norfolk to Richmond, three batteries have been constructed on that river, which will mount nineteen guns.

The frigate United States has been prepared for a school-ship, provided with a deck battery of nineteen guns, 32-pounders and 9-inch columbiads, for harbor defense. The frigate Merrimac has been raised {p.929} and is in the dry-dock, and arrangements are made for raising the Germantown and Plymouth.

In addition to the batteries described, other works have been constructed for their land defense, exceeding, in many instances, the works on the batteries themselves. An extensive line of field works has been erected for the security of Norfolk on the sides towards the bay. Redoubts for the same purpose have been constructed at Jamestown Island, Gloucester Point, Yorktown, and across the neck of land below Williamsburg. I have confined myself to a general narration of operations, and for the details refer you to the reports of several chiefs of staff.

Very respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FREDERICKSBURG, Fredericksburg, June 15, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: Since my arrival here I have made careful reconnaissance of the coast, and sought in every way possible to possess myself of the enemy’s movements and intentions. There is no evidence of a disposition on his part to land in this vicinity, and I am obliged to think that the force here is unnecessarily large. To all appearances the Federal forces will be directed against Manassas Junction and Harper’s Ferry. If those places fall, this position will be unnecessary, as he will have opened for himself a more direct route to Richmond. I beg therefore respectfully to suggest that after leaving a sufficient guard for the batteries, say 500 men, it will be better for me to march with the great body of my command to Manassas, or some other point where they can be made available, to resist the first great onslaught of the enemy. It may be the time for this move has not yet arrived, and my only object now is to inform you that if you agree with me in opinion as to the enemy’s intention, I can at very short notice march from here with three regiments of volunteers and two batteries of artillery.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

TH. H. HOLMES, Brigadier-General, Commanding Department.

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HEADQUARTERS CAMP LONG MEADOW, June 15, 1861.

General COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 13th.

I know myself to be a careless writer, and will not, therefore, pretend to have expressed clearly the opinions I wished to have put before the Government. I am confident, however, that nothing in my correspondence with my military superiors makes me obnoxious to the charge of desiring that the responsibility of my official acts should be borne by any other person than myself.

I had the honor yesterday to report to the President the removal of {p.930} the troops from Harper’s Ferry and other matters authorized in your letter just received.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. JOHNSTON, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.

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HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., June 16, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, Yorktown, Va.:

COLONEL: Your letter of the 14th, directed to General S. Cooper, has been received. The result of your examination of the James River is different from the conclusion arrived at by the engineer and naval officers to whom that duty was assigned. They supposed that a battery at Day’s Point would not command the passage of James River, and therefore established it at Jamestown Island. A battery at Day’s Point was considered to be advantageous in other respects, but, as it would require a larger covering force for its security than could then be assigned it, its construction was necessarily postponed. Since the concentration of troops at Suffolk has become possible, arrangements have been commenced for its erection, and it is hoped it will not be too late for the benefit proposed.

Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, General, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., June 16, 1861.

To the COMMANDING OFFICER YORKTOWN, VA.:

Col. D. H. Hill’s letter of the 15th instant has been received. The advantage to the enemy of his possession of Yorktown will be sufficient to induce him to adopt every means to take it. It is hoped that every precaution will be adopted to prevent its being carried by surprise. Should it be besieged, measures will be taken for its relief. There are no siege guns at present available for your post. Re-enforcements will be sent to Yorktown as rapidly as the arrival of available troops at this point will permit. Should the works at Yorktown be too extensive for defense by the troops now there, it will be advisable, if possible, to contract the lines, so as to render