R. E. Lee, May 26, 1861

Richmond, Va., May 26, 1861.

Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, d&c., Yorktown, Va.:

CoLONEL: I have received your communication of the 25th instant. In reply, I would state that I do not think it advisable to receive the company of cavalry from Gloucester. The Varina Troop, Capt. Abner Aiken, and a company from Charles City County, have already been ordered to you. The insufficiency of forage, to which you have alluded, and the unsuitability of the country for the action of cavalry, densely covered as it is by woods and intersected by creeks, nearly render it necessary to diminish the number of companies which you were yesterday informed would be sent you. I request that you will inform me how many companies you will need and how many can be provided for, as itis impossible to send you forage from Richmond.

Very respectfully, &c.,

General, Commanding.