| Head Qrs Va Forces |
| Richmond May 6th 1861 |
| |
| Col. T. J. Jackson |
| Comd'g Va. Vols |
| Harpers Ferry |
| |
| Sir, |
| I consider it probable that
the Government at Washington will make a movement against Harpers
Ferry and occupy the B&O Rail Road, with that view or use the Ches.
& Ohio Canal for the transportation of Troops. |
| You are desired to watch these
avenues of approach and endeavor to frustrate their designs. On
receiving certain intelligence of the approach of troops, it will
become necessary to destroy the bridge at Harpers Ferry & obstruct
their passage by the Canal, as much as possible. You might make some
confidential arrangements with persons in Maryland, to destroy the Monocracy
R. R. Bridge and drain the water out of the canal, should there be
assurances of the Enemy's attempt to make use of either. |
| ***** |
| Respty &c |
| R. E. Lee |
| Maj Genl Comd'g |
|