| Richmond, February 16, 1862 |
| |
| Brig. Gen. George W. Randolph, Richmond,
Va. |
| |
| Sir, |
| The Secretary of War directs
that you proceed forthwith to Suffolk, Va., and report for duty to Major-General Huger, under whom you will
immediately proceed to fortify and defend the approaches to Norfolk
and provide for the protection of the Portsmouth
and Weldon {Seaboard & Roanoke} Railroad between
Suffolk
and Weldon. To effect these objects you are authorized to call out a
sufficient negro force and adopt such measures as may be necessary. |
| Capt. I. M. St. John,
Engineers, will be directed to report to you for duty. |
| You will arrange with the
Commissary General for the rations of the negroes before leaving the
city. |
| Very respectfully, &c., |
| S. Cooper |
| Adjutant and inspector General |
|