population than are warranted. We have to fear them most. All during a war like this must suffer, but for the good of the general service it will not do to yield to those persons who have refused to volunteer, while the proprietors of the country are actually in the field, and who plead poverty and would join the enemy should an occasion offer.

It will be a mistaken leniency, and would only lead to further trouble. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. E. PICKET,

Colonel P. A. C. S., Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS AQUIA DISTRICT, December 13, 1861.

Respectfully referred to the Adjutant-General.

The person referred to in the last paragraph are the poor and nonslaveholders.

THE. H HOLMES,
Major-General, Commanding District.

DUBLIN, VA., December 10, 1861.

S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:

Donelson' brigade, 1,300 strong moves to-day for Petersburg. Eight and Thirteenth Tennessee, Floyd's brigade, require repose. There is no disorganization whatever the men are in fine spirits. A paymaster should be sent up at once. They have not been paid since June 30. I estimate the amount required at 3,000 man for four months. Is this line to re-enforced?

The people are alarmed at the departure of the troops.

GEO. DEAS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

RICHMOND, December 10, 1861.

Brigadier-General DONELSON, Dublin Station, Va.:

Proceed without delay with your brigade and Starke's regiment to Charleston, S. C., and reported to General R. E. Lee.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

RICHMOND, December 10, 1861.

Captain J. G. PAXTON,

Quartermaster, Jackson River, Virginia:

Send the following dispatch to Colonel Davis, commanding Wise's Legion:

Proceed with your command to Lynchburg in the manner directed in instructions of the Quartermaster-General and Captain J. G. Paxton, quartermaster at Jackson River. Further orders will be sent you at Lynchburg.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.