1862 April 25 Conrads Store, Va.

Conrads Store
April 25 1862
Dear Sir
As I do not know what
the object of Gens at this in directing ordering
me in command of the advance.  I do
not know what force will be required.
I am unwilling to attempt to keep back
the Enemy with less than my forces
command--except I received imperative
orders which I hope will be explicit
Respectfully
Turner Ashby
Acting


Major S.  Butler
A.A.G.

on verso is the following docketing

Conrad's Store
April 25 1862


Ashby, Col. Turner
comdg. cavalry


contents copied
in full


Recde Hd. Va.D.
April 25th 1862.

in another hand is written:

Given to J Wm B
by General Lee
at Fredericksburg
Camp January
1863

MSS 5209-b