is suggested that their owners be exempted from further cll at this time. To keep the records correctly, procure the negroes promptly, and prevent confusion, it would be wellfor agents of the counties to accompany and deliver the slaves in Richmond, corner of Eighteenth and Cary streets, to the Confederate agent, who will then and there receipt for the slaves and pay the expenses of such agents. Railroad companies should be duly notified at least three days beforehand, that the necessary transportation may be furnished without delay.

COUNTIES CALLED ON.

Amherst.................. 260

Pittsylvania............. 580

Buckingham............... 3............ 540

Appomattox............... 180

Prince Edward............ 320

Campbell................. 400

Cumberland............... 210

Nelson................... 190

Louisia.................. 350

Fluvanna................. 140

Charlotte................ 230

Halifax.................. 350

Bedford.................. 450

Total number called for.. 4,500

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. F. GILMER,

Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief Engineer.

[18.]

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Richmond, Va., October 11, 1862.

His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS,

President of the Conferate States:

SIR: Your letter of yesterday, making a requisition for 4,500 slaves to be employed upon the fortifications, in a conformity with the act of the Virginia Legislature of the 3rd instant, has been received. The call has been made upon the counties designated by Lieutenant-Colonel Gilmer, Chief Engineer of the Engineer Bureau, and the number of slaves apportioned as he suggests. The attention of the county courts has been called to his suggestions as to the manner of delivering the slaves, and the counties have been requested to respond to the requisition promptly.

Very respectfully,

JOHN LETCHER.

[18.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Richmond, October 11, 1862.

Brigadier General Henry A. WISE,

Commanding, &c., Chaffin's Bluff:

GENERAL: It is of great importance that the additional works for the defense of Chaffin's Bluff should be completed in the shortest possible time. Arrangements have been made for sending some 200 negroes to press forward this work, but to do it we have had to take them from other important points. One-half of Daniel's brigade is at work every day, and about the same proportion have the unattached regiment on other points. I have to request that you will put as large a detail as you can upon your lines. We will give you all the aid in