region it might serve as a nucleus to those citizens capable of bearing arms. General Pegram is nearly well, and could he take his brigade to the vicinity for a time he might increase its force (about 450) and organize some resistance to the enemy. I was told at the War Department that this matter rests with General Lee.

R. S. EWELL,

Lieutenant-General.

[Second indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
July 13, 1864.

Respectfully forwarded to the honorable Secretary of War.

It is impossible to detach troops from this army to defend the locality mentioned. A small force sent there would only attract the efforts of the enemy to capture if, and would be very much exposed. If the people will do nothing to defend themselves against such outrages I can see no remedy for them. I think arms should be furnished them, and, if practicable, some officer sent there to aid in organizing them. They could easily repel such marauding parties if they would exert themselves.

R. E. LEE,

General.

[Third indorsement.]

ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE,

July 18, 1864.

Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War.

H. L. CLAY,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Fourth indorsement.]

JULY 19, 1864.

Noted. Measures have been taken to organize and arm the people. File.

J. A. S.,

Secretary.

HEADQUARTERS JOHNSON'S DIVISION,
July 5, 1864.

Colonel GOODE,

Commanding Wise's Brigade:

COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs me to say that you will relieve Brigadier-General Gracie's command in the trenches at 8 a.m. to-night with your brigade; you will immediately see General Gracie, and arrange the manner in which the relief is to be made.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. E. FOOTE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.