quartermaster's deaprtment, that under directions or advice from Richmond, he had directed the force fromt wo or threeof theese coutnies to be sent to the northwest. This will prevent me for some time, probably, from raising as large a force as two regiments, but I shall endeavor to raise as many as possible. I have herenow two rifle companeis and an infantry compay, which I will send on to Harper's Ferry as soon as they can possibly be equipped, which will be intwo or rthree days. There are also two cavalry companies here, called out a day or two before I reached here by major Harman, who intended them for the northwest. I shall, however, in compliance with your order of the 15th instant, this evening received, send at least one of the se companies to Harper; 's Ferry. The infantry and rifle companies I shall, unless otherwise directed by you, arm with the flint- lock muskets now here.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

John ECHOLS,

Lieutenant- Colonel of Volunteers.

[2.]

RICHMOND, May 17, 1861.

L. P. WALKER:

About 7,000 Confederate troops at Harper's Ferry, under command of Colonel Jackson. Cannon been placed on Maryland Heights with Maryland and Kentucky troops. Colonel Deas left for Harper'[s yesterday.

D. G. DUNCAN.

[2.]

RICHMOND, May 17, 1861.

(Received 4.10 p. m.)

L. P. WALKER:

Send formal request to Lee and Letcher [to] communicate freely with me respecting movements of our troops and the enemy, if you so intended. Necessary [for] Letcher [to=] instruct manger of telegraph to same effect. Answer immediately.

D. G. DUNCAN.

[2.]

SPECIAL ORDERS,
ADJT. AND INSP. GENERAL'S OFFICE, Numbers 52.
Montgomery, May 17, 1861.

* * * * *

III. The battalion of light artillery, Louisiana Volunteers, commanded by Major J. B. Walton, on being mustered into service at New Orleans, will proceed to Richmond, Va. On arriving at that place Major Walton will report for orders to Major General R. E. Lee, commanding.

By command of the Secretary of War:

John WITHERS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

[2.]

FRANKLIN, PENDLETON COUNTY, VA., my 17, 1861.

Major HARMAN:

Carson, Hogshead, and myself arrived here last night. Captain Mooman sent his company on their march to Monterey and he cmae with us to this place, andlast night sent expresses all over the caounty to collect the men with their rifles and ammuniton here ready to march