| 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 you. |
| Very respectfully, your obedient servant, |
| R. E. Lee |
| General, Commanding |
|