your judgment on the facts. I have no idea, however, that you will be able to send off all but two of the regiments.

I send a telegram to General Lee.

Yours, &c.,

R. S. EWELL,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., May 15, 1862.

(Received May 17, 2.55 p. m.)

General R. S. EWELL,
Commanding Forces Swift Run Gap:

GENERAL: I am directed by General Lee to inform you that you need not feel any further solicitude on account of General Jackson, he having been informed by telegram that he is returning to Staunton, and is probably there by this time.

General Johnston has sent instructions to General Jackson, of which you are doubtless aware. The general thinks that if upon the junction of yours and General Jackson's forces a blow could be struck at Banks, I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. L. LONG,

Colonel, Military Secretary.

McDOWELL, May 15, 1862-8.20 a. m.

Major General R. S. EWELL:

GENERAL: Do you know where Banks is and what his force is? This evening I will encamp about 30 miles from Harrisonburg, on the Harrisonburg and Warm Springs turnpike.

What force can you bring to Harrisonburg for the purpose of attacking Banks, if necessary? Could you bring the troops from Gordonsville?

I am, general, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON,

Major-General.

LEBANON SULPHUR SPRINGS,

May 15, 1862-3.45 p. m.

Major General R. S. EWELL:

GENERAL: I am now about 30 miles from Harrisonburg. I will probably remain to-morrow in my present position. What news have you from Banks? I am on my way to join you at Harrisonburg, if necessary.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

T. J. JACKSON,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION,
May 15, 1862.

General L. O'B. BRANCH:

GENERAL: From recent instructions it is more important that as much as possible of the forces now at Gordonsville should be taken to