Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to Joseph E. Johnston re: defense of Richmond during Peninsular Campaign, plans
High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.
A high-resolution version of this object is available for registered users. LOG IN
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03747 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Richmond Type: Letter signed Date: 30 April 1862 Pagination: 2 p. 21.4 x 26.2 cm Order a Copy
Also concerns his plans to obstruct the James River.
Hd.Qrs. Richmond Va
30 April 1862
General
Your letter of the 27th reporting the condition of affairs on the Peninsula has been recd. The preparation of Batteaux by the enemy indicates, I think, an attack on Gloucester Rd. in conjunction with his general attack upon your lines. The presence of the "Virginia" in York river wd disconcert that part of his plan, as well as the ascent of York river. I have conversed with the Secy of the Navy, who thinks the Virginia shd repair to Yorktown, & that it might be accomplished at night. Shd you after hearing from Flag Officer Fallmall, determine upon this measure cd you arrange a signal to call the Steamer to you, shd you not be able to designate the precise time. Coal will have to be prepared for her at Yorktown. Do you wish any sent? I trust you may be able to retain command of York river but we must make every preparation for a disaster which may occur, & I will write to Genl Huger to prepare him for the contingency apprehended. [2] Operations for obstructing Channel of the James river, at a point eight miles below the city, have been in progress ever Since my arrival. I regret to State it is not completed & the work has been much retarded by freshets & the want of means of transportation; all of the latter being in requisition for troops & provisions for your army.
The Qr. Mr. reports that the bridges across the Chicahominy in this vicinity are repaired, except one which will be finished tomorrow. Bottoms, Long & Forge bridges below required much work. Workmen are now engaged on them and they are directed to use every exertion to complete them.
Most respectfully,
Your ob't serv't
R. E. Lee
general
Genl J. E. Johnston
Commdg &c &c
Yorktown Va
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.