Headquarters,
Yorktown, Va ., May 27, 1861.
Colonel Garnett, Adjutant-General:
Sir: I have just received, by a special messenger from Major Cary the following dispatch: “The enemy are landing at Newport News. Five steamers are up James River. Destination unknown. Please send down cavalry immediately .” I have not a single horseman, and cannot get one. A large force of cavalry, as I have stated before, seems to me to be absolutely necessary, to learn of the movements of the enemy. Major Cary is falling back with only thirty-five men, the rest of the roops being engaged in removing their families. The five steamers are reported by the express as being filled with troops. I am of the impression that this is intended to be an attack on our flanks.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER,
Colonel, Commanding