NEAR SMITHFIELD, N. C., April 1, 1865.

General R. E. LEE:

(Via Richmond.)

Lieutenant-General Hampton recommends Brigadier General E. M. Law for promotion to command Butler's division. I join earnestly in the reccommendation and beg you to procure this promotion.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

NEAR SMITHFIELD, N. C., April 1, 1865.

General R. E. LEE:

General Morgan can be employed as Governor Wates proposed, but I have not learned where he is. Cany you arm negroes? I suggest the first raised be used as substitutes for extra duty and detailed men. I should be very glad to get some thousands for these objects.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

NEAR SMITHFIELD, N. C., April 1, 1865-12 m.

General R. E. LEE:

Dispatch 9. 20 a. m. received. By my dispatch of yesterday I meant Beauregard would have part of Army of Tennessee coming from West.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

NEAR SMITHFIELD, N. C., April 1, 1865-1 p. m.

General R. E. LEE:

The troops referred to in my last dispatch (12 m.) number about 5,000.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

NEAR SMITFIELD, N. C., April 1, 1865.

General R. E. LEE:

Do you think that conference between us would be advantageous? If so, I'll go to your headquarters.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

HEADQUARTERS,
April 1, 1865. (Received 12. 15 a. m. 12nd).

General J. E. JOHNSTON:

I think what you propose advisable if you can come on. I am informed that Sherman has returned to North Carolina.

R. E. LEE.

NEAR SMITHFIELD, N. C., April 1, 1865.

General BEAUREGARD,

Raleigh or Grensborough:

Followin just received from General R. E. Lee:

General Beauregard can assume command of all troops from Western Virginia and Western North Carolina that come within his reach. General Echols and Martin, commanding these troops, have been ordered to co-operate in opposing Stoneman.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

47 R R-VOL XLVII, PT III