Lynchburg, Va., May 8, 1861.
Hon. L. P. Walker,
Montgomery, Ala.:
My Dear General: The Reverend Mr. Chadick, a member of Captain Tracy’s company, now encamped here, requests me to mention his name favorably to you for the chaplaincy of the Fourth Regiment of Alabama Volunteers. He is under the impression provision for such appointments has been made by a late act of Congress. I recommend him willingly because he is actuated in coming hither by patriotic feeling and for the further reason that his appointment, it is believed, is desired by a large number of the regiment. I am working very hard mustering in troops as fast as possible after their arrival. I find some of them very deficient in arms and accouterments and in tents. They are raw, wild, undisciplined Democrats, on a frolic, as many of them think, and commanded in many instances by inefficient and inexperienced officers. I must do our Third Alabama Regiment the justice to except them from such a charge. It is composed of the very best material, and there are eight out of the ten companies well disciplined and well officered. I understand there is great dissatisfaction in Virginia because of the military condition of the State. No one seems to have control, and consequently there are conflicting commands. It is thought Lee is too slow and fearful of responsibility, and I know from the orders sent from Richmond to State officers here that there is required some man who will bring order out of confusion. I wrote you a line a few days since which I trust has been received. Will you bear in mind the request then made as to my official connection when the special duty assigned me at this place shall have ended?
Asking to be presented respectfully and kindly to Mrs. Walker, although she would not say farewell to me,
I am, respectfully and truly, your friend,
H. L. CLAY.