Dear Sir:—

I have just received information from the Lieut. Governor of Virginia of the arrival in Chesapeak Bay of upwards of 100 sail of enemy's ships, and intimating his expectation of requesting the assistance of this State. I am therefore to request that you give immediate order to the first and second divisions of the drafts in your Brigade to hold themselves in readiness to march at the shortest notice. I have not the honor of a return from you since the late Militia law: the Council is to meet at New Bern the first of September, when, if practicable, you will be pleased to furnish me.