Correspondence of the Richmond Dispatch.
the Western Virginia "Boys."
Abingdon, Va., May 18, 1861.
We have in this (Washington) county, five volunteer companies; first, Captain Carson's company of ‘"Glade Spring Rifles."’ These are all fine looking, stalwart men. And to come a little farther down in the county, to Abingdon, we will first introduce you to Capt. Wm. White's company of ‘"Mountain Boys,"’ a fine company of gallant fellows, who swear to ‘"do or die"’ for old Virginia. --God bless her!
This company is composed, for the most part, of men from the country — men accustomed to the ‘"bark"’ of the rifle, and who can knock a Yankee's feather at a hundred and fifty yards every crack, with the common rifle.
Capt. White is a graduate of the V. M. Institute, and is a zealous, brave gentlemanly officer, universally liked by his men and all who know him.
And now comes Captain W. E. Jones' ‘"Mounted Rifles"’ This company is commanded by a graduate of West Point. Capt. Jones was in the U. S. Army eight years, but resigned about two years ago. He is a thorough gentleman, a No. 1 soldier, and, as with all the others in this section, impatient for the fight.
His company consists of about 90 men, used to the rifle, mounted on the best of chargers, and ready and impatient for the conflict.
This company is well drilled in cavalry tactics, can compare with any company in the State in that respect, and is making rapid strides in infantry drill.
All they want is just one sweep at ‘ "Billy Wilson,"’
Next on docket comes Dr. James L. White's company of ‘"Washington Independents." ’ If you could only see this company, Mr. Dispatch, it would, to use a vulgar expression, ‘"fairly set your teeth on edge"’ Composed of men nearly all of whom are six feet, crack shots, and any one of whom only wishes no better exercise than to be pitted against at least three live Yankees.
They fight for their homes and their firesides.
Who can conquer them?
None! Dr. White, the Captain, is a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, and combines the gentleman with the good soldier.
This company drills six hours a day.
And last, comes Captain Terry's company.
Good. Captain T. has, I understand, belonged to the United States Army, and, consequently, has his company well-drilled.
I have never seen his company, but can vouch for them a good fight.
I forgot mention that Captain Carson, of the ‘"Glade Spring Rifles,"’ is a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, and takes his company through the drill with good judgment and skill.
He is much of a gentleman, a good soldier, and about six feet high.
He'll do. Ditto.