HEADQUARTERS VIRGINIA FORCES, May 15, 1861

Richmond, Va., May 15, 1861.

Col. GEORGE H. TERRETT, Alexandria, Va. :

COLONEL: I have requested Colonel Cocke to fill up Colonel Gar_land’s regiment, stationed at Manassas Junction, from companies called by him into the service of the State, and, as soon as he can organize other regiments, to send such re-enforcements to that point as he may deem necessary or you require. It will be necessary for you to give

articular attention to the defense of that point, and to organize your orce in front of it, to oppose, as far as your means will allow, any ad_ vance into the country from Washington. It is not expected possible, _ with the troops at present under your command, that you will be able

to resist successfully any attempt to occupy Alexandria, but you may prevent the extension of marauders into the country and the advance of troops on the railroad. Should you discover an intention to seize the Manassas Junction, you will notify Colonel Cocke, who will advance to sustain you, and you will, with his and your whole force, oppose it. It will be necessary to watch the approaches on your right from the Potomac, as the distance from Occoquan, which point may be reached in boats, is not more than eighteen or twenty miles from Manassas Junetion. You are again requested to urge forward the organization and equipment of your troops, and to see that your officers labor diligently at the instruction and discip]ine, and be prepared to take the field at any moment. Respectfully, &c.,

R. E. LEE, Major-General, Commanding.