be made in this direction. An attempt will probably not be made with a less force than 10, 000, with a strong artillery force. To drive that force in I shall have two available pieces of artillery and probably 1, 500 of infantry. Though I think this force would drive the enemy in, it is hardly enough to count upon. I would prefer to have at least 5, 000 men and four other pieces of artillery; some heavier pieces than we have here. I hope the general will let me have his views upon the subject as early as possible. On my arrival here on the night of the 15th I found that Colonel George H. Steuart's regiment had at his request been allowed to remain here for another tour. This gives me six regiments here instead of five, as I understood the arrangements. It is none too many, and as they are quite comfortable here, mostly housed, I have kept them. This is the weak point of the advance line, and should therefore be better guarded. This point guarded will protect the flank and enable the forces from all the other points to make an easy retreat via Annandale and to make a strong fight on the other side of the Accotink, if necessary or expedient. I hope the general will make us another visit as soon as he can.

I remain, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

JAMES LONGSTREET,

Brigadier - General, Commanding.

[5.]

RICHMOND, September 17, 1861.

Colonel DANIEL R. RUSSELL,

Twentieth Mississippi, Lynchburg, Va.:

It is important you should join General J. B. Floyd with the least delay possible. Send me the names of staff officers recommended by you. Their appointments will be sent to your orders, Lewisburg. Avail of the transportation tomorrow, and if possible take subsistence as far as Lewisburg.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

[5.]

RICHMOND, September 17, 1861.

Governor H. T. CLARK,

Raleigh, N. C.:

I shall not interfere with the disposition you have made of T. L. Clingman's regiment.

L. P. WALKER.

[4.]

RICHMOND, September 17, 1861.

Governon H. T. CLARK,

Raleigh, N. C.:

Colonel R. McMillan's regiment Georgia Volunteers, armed and equipped, now at Lynchburg, Va., has been ordered to proceed to Goldsborough and report to General R. C. Galtin. The President desires that you will direct Colonel R. Ransom to proceed, with his regiment, to this city.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.

[4.]