Benj. F. Butler, May 8, 1861

Srr: I have given orders to detain all provisions and munitions o war that are attempted to be passed westward. I have given specia directions for careful examinations of the express companies, to preven them from carrying caps, of which the rebels are in great need. I hav not as yet examined passengers’ baggage, although large quantities 0 caps might be easily forwarded under such designation. I await yow directions upon this subject. ;

At first I was inclined to permit, and did permit, provisions to pas: into Western Virginia, but I am not convinced of the good faith of thos consignments, and I have, therefore, ordered all provisions to be stopped revising my original order. I have permitted groceries (proper) t be forwarded, such as coffee, sugar, spices, fruits, &c. Since I hav given the order, I have had a very full conversation with the presiden of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Mr. Garrett, who expressed doubt: as to the policy we are pursuing. He avers that we are receiving mucl larger supplies of provisions from the West than we can by any possi bility cut off, and that Governor Dennison, of Ohio, is most anxious t¢ reopen communications through for the purpose of sending forwarc live-stock ; that no portion of the trains has been stopped at Harper’s Ferry, and that there may be hereafter no retaliation, and that it be comes important that the miners of Cumberland and Western Virginiz should receive supplies from Baltimore, from whence he avers that they receive the most of their cured provisions. Although they have not stopped provisions on the trains at Harper’s Ferry, they have stoppec live stock and the sheep, about which I wrote in my former dispatch. had gone from our reach before I received the orders from the Depart ment. At present I am returning these provisions and stores to the consignees at Baltimore, although they would be of great use to the troops at Washington. Sending them back will save complications. but will probably result in their being sent forward by a more circuit. ous route.

Companies of volunteer troops are passing within about six miles ot me daily. I have been in doubt whether or not to stop them. The principal question being, not of our ability so to do, but what we should do with them after we have detained them. I await instructions upor this point also.

Being in doubt as to which office I should apply for instructions, 1] have forwarded this in duplicate to the Commanding General and to the

~ War Department.

I have been called upon by an association of butchers and provision dealers from Baltimore, who desire that an order shall be transmitted from the Commanding General allowing certain cattle, now stopped at

Bellaire, to be transported, via Harrisburg, to Baltimore. I see no ob.

jection to such order, and will see that their request be complied with should such order be sent to me.

I send these dispatches by my brother, A. J. Butler, who desires to be of any service, and will return with any order from ‘the Department or General Scott.

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