Unknown to Joseph E. Johnston, June 7, 1861

GENERAL:

I have the honor to report that I arrived at Grafton on the evening of the 1st day of June, and found that Colonel Kelley, of the First Virginia Regiment, had organized an expedition for that night against the enemy at Philippi. The available forces then at his command consisted of six companies of his own regiment and nine companies of the Ninth Indiana Volunteers, commanded by Colonel Milroy. After a full conference with Colonel Kelley as to the position of’ the enemy, his strength, and the character of the approaches to his position, I deemed it advisable to postpone the attack until the succeeding night. .

Having satisfied myself during the evening that we were in the midst of spies, who readily obtained every information in regard to our movements, endeavored to arrange the expedition so as to give a false impression, and thereby secure the advantage of a surprise of the enemy. With this view the following order was given to Colonel Kelley: