Dr. Sir:—
Your favor of the 19th current by express, I have just received. The letter you enclosed me was from the Lieut. Gov'r of Virginia informing that “last Friday night the enemy's fleet consisting of upwards of 100 sail entered Chesapeake bay”. I am obliged to you for giving Gen'ls. Jones & Butler notice of the arrival of this
fleet. I write to those Gentlemen, and beg of you the favor to forward their letters. It's no more than to request they will direct the 1st & 2d divisions of their respective Brigades to hold themselves in readiness to march at the shortest notice. I also write to Col's Eaton & Taylor requesting their attendance in Council at New Bern Monday 1st September. Be pleased to send those on with Gen. Butler's letter.