J. E. Johnston, July 1, 1861

Richmond, Va., July 1, 1861.

Brig. Gen. J. E. JOHNSTON, Winchester, Va.: GENERAL: J am directed by General Lee to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 26th ultimo, in reply to my communication of the

24th, respecting the calling into service of the two regiments from the i

Third Division of the State Militia. The general desires me to say that it was far from his intention to cast any strictures upon you for any orders that you may have given upon that subject. The matter coming from the governor of Virginia in the form of an inquiry was submitted to you for reply, as none could be given from this office, and at that time it was not known that you had given any instructions on the subject. The latter part of my letter was simply intended to convey to you certain information, of a nature which might influence you if found correct. Asa matter of course, your orders calling out the. militia could only be conveyed through the regularly appointed officers, irrespective of their character or abilities.

GEO. DEAS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS, Winchester, July 2, 1861. General S.. COOPER: a

GENERAL: I become more convinced daily of the great value of cayalry, compared with infantry, for service on this frontier. The quantity we have is entirely insufficient for mere scouting and outpost duty. It

~ Omar. TX] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—CONFEDERATE. 963

_ you can send companies enough to make up another regiment under such an officer as Colonel Stuart, you will add vastly to the strength of this force. We cannot observe the river with one regiment. Do send me Pemberton immediately, or, if he cannot be spared, Major – Rhett. I have no adjutant-general. Can you not appoint and send to _ ine two more such as Bee and Smith? ‘They are to be found—Pember-. _ ton, for instance. Gh

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Brigadier-General, C. 8. Army.