Head Quarters, Virginia Forces
Richmond, Virginia
May 3rd 1861
Gen. Philip St. Geo. Cocke
General
Under the authority of the Governor of Virginia by his proclamation of the 3rd. Instant. You are hereby authorized to call out and muster into the service of the State, volunteer companies from the counties of Alexandria, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Fauquier, Rappahannock, Culpepper, Madison, Greene, Orange, Albemarle, Nelson, Amherst, Campbell, Bedford, Roanoke, Bottetourt and Craig.
The troops from the first five named counties may be directed to rendezvous at Lessburg and Warrenton as you may find most advantageous. Those from the five next named, at Culpepper Court House.
Those from Albemarle, Nelson and Amherst at Charlottesville. The remainder at Lynchburg.
The whole number of companies thus called into service including those now in the service of the States and under your command will not exceed ten Regiments of Infantry or Rifles, two of Cavalry and eight companies of Artillery. You will organize them into Regiments associating as far as possible from the same section of the State and place them temporarily under such officers as may be available until their proper field officers can be appointed by the Governor.
It will be necessary to send officers to the respective rendezvous to muster them into the service and it is hoped that you will be able rapidly to organize the whole force. You are desired to report as soon as practicable, the number of companies mustered into the service of the State, their arms, condition, &c You will give directions to the mustering Officers to select from the Companies that offer those that are best armed and instructed and give promise of efficient service.
I am very respy
Your ObtServt
R E Lee
Maj Genl Commg
Source: University of Virginia Special Collections
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 January 4
