Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to Jefferson Davis
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08374 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 June 1862 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; cm Order a Copy
"I propose for your consideration sending two good brigades from this army to reinforce Genl. Jackson. These. . . will make him strong enough to wipe out Fremont. . ." Jackson will "sweep down north of the Chickahominy, cut up McClellan's communications & rear, while I attack in front. I can hold McClellan in his present position for a week or ten days during this movement. . .McClellan will not move out of his entrenchments unless forced, which this must accomplish."
Hd qrs: 10 June '62
Mr President
I propose for your Consideration Sending two good brigades from this Army to reinforce Genl Jackson. These with the Georgia regts now on the way, & Lawtons brigade ordered to take the Lynchburg R.R. at Petersburg, will make him strong enough to Wipe out Fremont. With his whole force Jackson Can then be directed to move rapidly to Ashland, where I will reinforce him with fresh troops, with directions to swoop down north of the Chikahominy, Cut up McClellans Communications & rear, while I attack in front. I Can hold McClellan in his present position for a week or ten days during this movement, & be getting our troops from the South. I think this is our Secret move. McClellan will not move out of his entrenchments unless forced, which this must accomplish, & it will hazard too much with our inferior numbers to attack him in them.
Please Consider this immediately & decide. It must be Commenced to night. If you decide in favor direct R.R. transportation. Officer must be Sent to hasten Lawton along, who will require aid.
I am reconnoitering on our right, & have sent Cavy in McClellans rear to Cut if foraging parties [2] & wagon trains.
Very respt with high esteem
Your Obt Servt
R E Lee
Genl
His Excl President Davis
[docket]
Genl Lee
Hd Qr Army No Va
June 10, 1862
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