1861 June 4 Charlottesville [Virginia]

Col P St Geo Cocke

Dear Sir,

Yours of the 3rd came duly
to hand and contents noted, I made a contract
to day for 120 Knapsacks at $2 each, but they cannot
be be completed with the last of next week,
cannot have a Cartridge Box or Cap Pouch made here.
The Tents will be commenced on at once, Shall
I have Wall Tents for the Officers? If so what size?
Will report the companies as they come in, and give
you my idea of their appearance and material,
would it not be as well for you to cause to be sent
to me Knapsacks for Capts. Rea and Taylor's comp-
-anies: the returns of which I enclosed in my letter
of the 3rd,--I enclose you a letter I received from
Capt Timberlake today, they I learn are not
armed, nor have they sabres, I have replied to
him not to come until ordered, or until I can
hear from you, If they cannot procure arms,
and do not equip themselves as suggested in your
letter of May 31st, I cannot see the propriety of
mustering them, (unless they can be made useful
below,) The expense would be very great and if
retained here they would have no instructor,
It appears to me they could improve themselves
quite as much by drilling in their neighborhood
as to be quartered here, I should like to have
your views on this subject, so I can reply to

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his letter before they start here,
Most respectfully,
Your Obdt Servt
Wm H. Fry
Lt Col Va Volls

MSS 640