Today in History:

1021 Series I Volume XXVII-III Serial 45 - Gettysburg Campaign Part III

Page 1021 Chapter XXXIX. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - CONFEDERATE.

strong, is now between Tazewell Court-House and Wytheville. I have just received a telegram from General Lee, dated yesterday at Bunker Hill. He evidently thinks I am on my way from this place to Winchester, and yet I am remaining here by what I regard as your orders. I beg that you will relieve me from any doubt as to your orders, by a telegram this evening, otherwise I shall start tomorrow to join General Lee, and leave the command of this department to General Echols.

Please answer without delay.

SAM. JONES,

Major-General.


HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WESTERN VIRGINIA,
Dublin, July 18, 1863.

General R. E. LEE,

Bunker Hill, via Winchester:

I am detained here under orders from the Secretary of War. Colonel Wharton, with about 1, 100 infantry and a battery of artillery, on the way from Staunton to Winchester. Another battery will follow him on Wednesday from Staunton. The enemy is this instant so pressing me in front that I cannot, under present orders, leave here without orders from the War Department. Please do not incorporate Colonel Wharton's command with any other brigade before I arrive. He is an admirable officer-has commanded a brigade for eighteen months. Let him command my troops until I come.

SAM. JONES,

Major-General.


HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WESTERN VIRGINIA,
Dublin, July 18, 1863.

Major General JOHN ECHOLS, Union:

I leave to-morrow morning for Winchester, unless otherwise ordered. Come here immediately, and assume command of the department.

The enemy, 1, 300 strong, were this morning between Jeffersonville and Wytheville. I have given all orders I regard as necessary in the emergency.

I will leave a clerk here, who will tell you all that has been done, and show you all the papers.

SAM. JONES,

Major-General.


HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WESTERN VIRGINIA,
Dublin, July 18, 1863.

Brigadier General W. PRESTON,

Abingdon, Va.:

The enemy, 1, 300 strong, are moving on Wytheville. Were this side of Jeffersonville this morning. Please send what troops you can to Wytheville without delay.

Impress any cars that can be had, and keep them subject to the orders of the officer commanding the troops you send. You and Williams can take care of the salt-works, I think, and spare a few


Page 1021 Chapter XXXIX. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - CONFEDERATE.