Robert E. Lee to F. M. Boykin, JR., Grafton, Va, May 11, 1861

Maj. F. M. Boykin, JR., Grafton, Va.:

MaAsor: Your letter of the 7th has just been received, and I regret to learn that the prospect of assembling the Virginia forces at Grafton is so unfavorable. You must persevere, however, and call out companies from the well-affected counties, and march them to Grafton, or such other point in that vicinity as you may select. Four hundred rifles and some ammunition have been ordered from Staunton to Major Goff, Virrinia Volunteers, at Beverly, Randolph County, who has been directed fo communicate their arrival to Colonel Porterfield, and take his directions us to their disposition. You can by this means arm certain companies and prepare them for service, preparatory to receiving those from Harper’s Ferry. I do not think it prudent to order companies from other parts of the State to Grafton, as it might irritate, instead of consiliating the population of that region. On Colonel Porterfield’s arrival at Grafton communicate this letter to him.

Very respectfully, &c.,