Barboursville, Va., Dec. 30th 1861
H.J. Samuels
Adjuntant General Virginia Militia
Wheeling, Virginia.
Dear Sir:-
We have the honor of tendering to you and through you to the Governor the Services of a company of independent Scouts for immediate active Service, composed of one hundred and fifty (150) men more or less as you may dictate, to be organized in the counties of Cabell, Putnam and vicinity. The time and order of service to correspond with the laws regulating the militia of the State. In short, we wish to be regularly in the Service, under general orders, with an opportunity to work. The matter will be more fully, personally represented trusting the cause will meet your hearty approval we have the honor to be Sir
Yours obident
W.H. Carpenter
J.T. Carroll jr
W.C. Mahone
Transcription by Brittani Lynch, undergraduate student enrolled in Dr. Billy Joe Peyton's Fall 2010 "Introduction to Public History" at West Virginia State University