Kenton Harper to Wu. H. Richardson, April 21, 1861

General Wu. H. RICHARDSON, Adjutant-General:

DEAR SiR: My present force here is about two thousand. I have endeavored to-day to get up a consolidated report of the strength and condition of my command, but defer it on account of imperfectness in the returns.

I have effected an understanding with the Maryland authorities. They are pledged to report to me any hostile approach through their territory, and consent to the occupancy of the heights commanding my position whenever necessity requires it. I have guarded all the approaches east and west, and established telegraphic communications, to guard against surprise.

The work of forwarding to Winchester uncompleted arms and maehinery progresses rapidly. The arrangements for this branch of my duties are so nearly completed, that I hope to give more of my attention to the military command. From necessity I have had to devolve many of the details upon General Carson. I have had to assume heavy responsibilities, and felt some embarrassment in the absence of all written instructions. The troops assembled without ammunition, generally, and, there being little here, I have had to send abroad for it.

Not being informed of the troops ordered into service, I have, so far, received all which were presented. General Meem, of the Seventh Brigade, reports for duty, as he states, upon verbal orders, received through Colonel Crump, from the governor. This presents some difficulty. I see no reason for the employment of three brigadier-generals for such a force; but, not being informed of the number of troops ordered to this point, I of course recognize him. General Carson’s brigade has reported to-day ; numbers six hundred and fifty-five. General

Harman’s nine hundred and fifty-five, and General Meem’s four hundred and six. About one hundred and fifty, however, of the troops included in General Harman’s command belong properly to that of General Meem’s. The times are exciting; but, if possible, I would be glad to receive some written instructions from you. I expect, from news just received, an additional force to-morrow of five hundred men. If needed, I could have thousands. Not knowing, however, the extent ae your orders, I have concluded to “trust in God and keep my powder ry.

Very respectfully, &e.,