| Hd Qrs Va Forces |
| Richmond Va. April 30, 1861 |
| |
| Major F. M. Boykin |
| Va. Volunteers |
| Weston, Va. |
| |
| You are desired to take
measures to muster into the service of the State, such volunteer
comps. as may offer their services, for the protection of the N. W.
portion of the State. Assume the command, take post at, or near
Grafton, unless some other point should offer greater facilities for
the command of the Baltimore & Ohio R. R. and the branch to
Parkersburg. |
| It is not the object to
interrupt peaceful travel on the road, or to offer annoyance to
citizens pursuing their usual avocations, but to hold the road for the
benefit of Maryland & Virginia, and to prevent its being used
against them. You will therefore endeavor to obtain the cooperation of
the officers of the road & afford them on your part every
assistance in your power. |
| You will also endeavor to give
quiet & security to the inhabitants of the Country. |
| Major A. Loring, at Wheeling,
has been directed with the Volunteer Compy under his command, to give
protection to the road, near its terminus at the Ohio river, and you
will place yourself in communication with him & cooperate with him
if necessary. |
| ***** |
| Very respectfully &c |
| R. E. Lee |
| Major Genl Commanding |
|