Head Quarters Va Forces
Richmond Va May 6th 1861
Col Jubal A Early
Rocky Mt Franklin Co, Va
Col
You are directed to repair to Lynchburg, Campbell County, Va and to take command of the troops. This will be mustered into service of the state and at those points by Lt Col D A Langhorn. You will organize these troops into regiments associating as far as possible troops from the same section of the state. The troops from the county of Campbell, Bedford, Roanoke, Botetourt and Craig are to be united distinct from those of other counties, except as far as may be necessary to complete this organization. Place them under such officers as may be available, until their proper officers are appointed by the Governor. You are requested to organize, instruct, and prepare the whole force for service at as early a day as possible and to report as soon as possible. The number of companies mustered into the services of the State their Arms condition etc
I am respectfully your obt servt,
R E Lee
Maj-Genl Comdg
Source: University of Virginia Library
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 January 19
