Sir:

Some movements of the Enemy in Virginia Indicate a rapid movement of Cavalry through this State, therefore I request you to Collect the Riflemen from the militia of your county, and order them under expert officers to march toward Burton's Ferry on Roanoke. You may assure the men that the time they serve shall be Credited in their next tour of duty, and that they shall be discharged in one month at farthest, if they require it. To prevent those wagons from penetrating our Country is of the highest importance, and I hope every good friend to his Country will exert himself. Measures shall be taken for supplying arms & ammunition.