Fredericksburg, Va., June 1, 1861.
Sir: The report has arrived this moment that five of the enemy’s steamers, with two transport ships, one of which is of considerable size, had appeared off Aquia Creek battery, with the evident intention of attacking it. When the train left (11 a.m.), soon after, heavy firing was heard from that point. I am in want of at least one thousand well-disciplined volunteers as soon as it is possible to send them. Twenty thousand musket-rifle caps are absolutely necessary for the use of troops with percussion arms. I go to the battery at once. Communicate with Major Barton, acting assistant adjutant-general, to this office.
DANIEL RUGGLES,
Colonel, Provisional Army.
Col. R. S. Garnett, Adjutant-General.