E. D. R. S. Canby to G. R. Paul, January 7, 1862

: Camp Connelly, N. Mex., January 7, 1862.

Col. G. R. PAUL, Fort Union, N. Mex. :

Sir: The field battery, the regular cavalry (except two companies of the First), and the companies of the Fifth Infantry, have been moved up from Fort Craig. Four companies of volunteers have also been brought up for the purpose of keeping open the communication between this place and Fort Craig, and convoying any supply trains that it may be necessary to send to that point. =

The regular force (500 men) will be established at some convenient point within supporting distance of any point that may be threatened. – It will serve as the nucleus for the concentration of the regulars and volunteers to be drawn from points that are not immediately endangered, and will enable us to organize in a very short time a very considerable and effective force to repel any invasion that may be attempted.

The garrison at Fort Craig consists of seventeen companies, of which six are regulars and nine volunteers, having a reasonable degree of instruction and discipline; a sufficient force in my judgment to hold the post against any force that can be brought against it.

It is believed that the Confederates cannot invade the country with more than 2,000 men in one body. If the invasion be by the Pecos, Fort Craig can sustain itself until that invasion is disposed of. If the demonstration is against Fort Craig, all the available force in the department ean at once be turned in that direction. It is not my purpose to employ the militia in the field, but to use them in replacing the regulars and volunteers that may be drawn from posts that are not immediately threatened.

In carrying out these arrangements, the available forces at Fort Union, Santa Fé, Albuquerque, and Camp Connelly will be held in conStant readiness te move in any direction that may become necessary. Transportation for the movement of the troops and at least ten days? supplies will be held in reserve, and arrangements will be made for call- – ing into the service any additional militia force that may be needed to replace the troops that may be withdrawn. x

‘The governor of the Territory has been requested to hold the militia in readiness for any service that may be required of them, and will furnish any foree that may be required by the commanders of forts or distriets.

These views are furnished for the information of the several commanders, in order that they may aet in furtherance of them in their several commands, and be prepared to co-operate whenever it becomes necessary. :

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,