they want possession o a well of water on this side of the creek, and further state that it may be necessary for them to advance nearer to this town. I have no doubt their object is to hold the north bank of Mill Creek, and perhaps to erect works there. Considering this clearly an invasion, as commander of the regiment I have ordered out the volunteer companies of this county.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. K. MALLORY,

Colonel 115th Regiment Virginia Militia.

[First indorsement.]

MAY 14, 1861.

The advice of council is asked in regard to this letter.

JOHN LETCHER.

[Second indorsement.]

This letter is referred to General Lee fort his consideration.

JOHN LETCHER.

[Third indorsement.]

MAY 14, 1861.

Referred to Colonel Ewell for such action as he can take in the matter.

R. E. LEE,

Major- General.

[2.]

RICHMOND, VA., May 14, 1861.

Honorable JEFFERSON DAVIS:

Your presence here would be worth more than 40,000 men. Every one asks, "When will he come!"

GEO. DEAS.

[2.]

RICHMOND, May 14, 1861.

(Received 9.20 o'clock.)

L. P. WALKER:

Special messenger, Doctor Banks, arrived from Hampton. Informs Governor's council of the advance of a large body of troops, horses, and mules out of Fort Monroe. Crossed creek; advanced a considerable distance on Virginia soil.

D. G. DUNCAN.

[2.]

RICHMOND, May 14, 18612.

(Received 11 p. m.)

L. P. WALERK:

Contents last dispatch communicated to me by Mr. Tyler. Have since seen Governor Letcher, who replied to my request for the facts that they were not in shape and was jot at liberty to give them even to War Department, but that two messengers and arrived from Hampton. May be more successful to- morrow.

D. G. DUNCAN.

[2.]