region until General Floyd can complete the organization of his brigade, and, if you please, that these companies should form a part of it.
Enclosed please find a copy of the letter this day addressed to General Floyd, and believe me to be,
Jefferson Davis.
To His Excellency John Letcher, Governor of Virginia.
General John B. Floyd:
Dear Sir—Governor Letcher has sent me yours of the 4th instant, covering the commissions of four captains, and a statement to the effect that those officers were duly commissioned and regularly in the service of the State of Virginia, and could not therefore rightfully transfer their companies to another service.
Please find enclosed a copy of my reply to him. Should he be pleased to transfer the companies to your brigade, the difficulty will thereby be removed, otherwise you will not fail to perceive they cannot be incorporated into the command you are authorized to organize and muster into service. The good temper exhibited by the Governor induces me to hope that he will thus aid you in the formation of your brigade, and you will permit me in friendly spirit I assure you that he has manifested none other than the best wishes for yourself personally, and for the success of the service entrusted to you.
Very respectfully yours,
Jefferson Davis.
The letters which follow are interesting illustrations of what Virginia was enabled to do in assisting to arm the troops of other States as well as her own:
To his Excellency Governor John Letcher:
Sir—I am happy to be the vehicle of communication of the enclosed resolutions of the Committee of Safety for the town of Wilmington, in which your Excellency will perceive that your kindness to the citizens of Wilmington in their moment of danger is duly and highly appreciated. With the sincere assurance that your Excellency's kindness will always by us be remembered with gratitude, I have the honor to be,
Your obedient servant,
Wm. S. Ashe.
