as to our own necessities and the enemy`s movements in the distant regions I have mentioned, to give effect to them, either in the way I have suggested, or in such other manner as may seem to you more judicious.

I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,

R. E. LEE,

General.

WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, June 25, 1863.

General D. H. HILL,

Petersburg, Va.:

Force withdrawn in part by the enemy. Hold Jenkins` brigade in readiness, but retain it till further developments.

J. A. SEDDON,

Secretary of War.

WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, June 25, 1863.

General D. H. HILL,

Petersburg, Va.:

We have news, relied on, that the enemy are landing in considerable force from seventeen vessels-gunboats and transports-at White House, 25 miles from the city. Another force believed to be advancing on the Peninsula.

You had better move Jenkins` brigade, and such other force as you can spare, either to this city, or in supporting distance, say at Drewry`s Bluff.

J. A. SEDDON,

Secretary of War.

PETERSBURG, June 25, 1863.

Honorable JAMES A. SEDDON,

Secretary of War:

The only force here is Jenkins` brigade and two weak battalions. It will not do to send all of Jenkins` brigade until the movement be more fully developed. Shall I send half of it to Drewry`s Bluff? Ransom`s brigade is at the Bluff.

D. H. HILL,

Major-General.

PETERSBURG, June 25, 1863-1 p. m.

Honorable JAMES A. SEDDON,

Secretary of War:

The following dispatch just received from Ivor Station:

Major General D. H. HILL:

SIR: Suffolk is not entirely evacuated; the citizens of the place request that our men be kept away from the vicinity, as the enemy say they will burn the town if a picket is interfered with, and that in a few days all can go who desire. I have 8 men near there, watching the movement of evacuation. Two hundred cavalry and