By a Resolve of Congress of the 31st of May two Battalions of Infantry and a Corps of those consisting of sixty four Dragoons are required of the State of Maryland to serve for three Months from the time of their respectively rendezvousing at the Place or Places directed by me. Your Excellency has no Doubt, been made acquainted, that the foregoing requisition is founded upon the alarming Progress which the Enemy are making in Virginia. You will be pleased therefore to give Orders to the Officers commanding the respective Corps to march by Detachment as they are raised and equipped to whatever Place may be the Head Quarters of the American Army in Virginia or in Maryland (should the Enemy have advanced into that State) and take their further Commands from the General or other commanding Officer. I need but refer your Excellency to the Circular Letter of the President of Congress of the 1st inst. for the Reasons which ought to influence the Exertions of Your State most particularly at this Moment. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & very humble Servt