My dear Sir:

This letter will be handed to you
[[by?] Mr Harris, and I desire that you will re
[port?] to me, the true state of things, in the
[loc]ality of your command. Let me know
[w]hat is the state of feeling amongst the
[pe]ople–what number of troops you have
[an]d the number of efficient and reliable
[m]en–what is doing towards the fortifi-
[ca]tion at the White House–whether any
thing has been done in the way of observa
tion on our side of the Potomac, by our en
emies. I desire full information on all
matters of interest. Send me a report
by Mr Harris.

The President of the Road will pass
Mr Harris on the road, and permit
his return to this city

I am truly
yr friend
John Letcher
P. St. Geo. Cocke
Brig General
Alexandria

[This letter previously pasted in a scrapbook. Left margin partially ripped off when removed.]

MSS 640