Robert E. Lee to Thomas J. Jackson, April 27, 1861

Col. THOMAS J. JACKSON, Virginia Volunteers, Camp near Richmond, Va.:

COLONEL: You will proceed, without delay, to Harper’s Ferry, Va., in execution of the orders of the governor of the State, and assume command of that post. After mustering into the service of the State . such companies as may be accepted under your instructions, you will

organize them into regiments or battalions, uniting, as far as possible,

*Answer not found.

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_ companies from the same section of the State. These will be placed _ under their senior captains, until the field officers can be appointed by the governor. It is desired that you expedite the transfer of the ma_ chinery to this place, ordered to the Richmond Armory, should it not ‘ have been done, and that you complete, as fast as possible, any guns or _ rifles partially constructed, should it be safe and practicable. Your at__ tention will be particularly directed to the safety of such arms, machin_ ery, parts of arms, raw material, &c., that may be useful, to insure which they must be at once sent into the interior, if in your judgment necessary. If any artillery companies offer their services, or are museo into the service of the State, and are without batteries, report the acts. I am, sir,

very respectfully,