Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) to Gen. Benjamin Huger
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00389 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Richmond, Va Type: Letter signed Date: 7 April 1862 Pagination: 2 p. ; 27 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Faded ink, written on blue paper. Huger was dismissed in July after a mistake at the Battle of Malvern Hill. re: defense of Hansemond River
Notes: Published in Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, Volume 11, part 3, p. 425-426.
Richmond Va.
April 7th 1862
My Dear General.
It appears from the maps in my possession that the Nansemond river is defended by a number of small batteries scattered along its banks, erected from time to time to meet the emergency then existing. Singly these batteries are weak against a serious naval attack, and are more or less liable to be taken and destroyed by a sudden night attack by land. I think it would be better, if practicable, to collect the guns from these scattered batteries and place then in position at some point where they can be concentrated on an obstruction in the channel of the river. A position at Town Point seems to be a suitable one; And if so under this view, the guns from Cedar Point Pages Battery and Perhaps Pig Point and Barretts Neck batteries, might be dispensed with, And the main defense made at Town Point, or other position you may select. Of course the guns should not be removed from their present positions until the [2] works are ready to receive them at the new Positions selected. My information on the subject is so meagre [sic] that I do not pretend to advise, nor even to suggest; but merely to call the matter to your personal attention.
It would be a releif [sic] to know your views on the subject, your plans, and how far they have been carried out; for without such knowledge, I can neither satisfy my mind nor answer the numerous questions propounded to me.
I am very respectfully
Your Obt. Servt.
R. E. Lee
Genl Commanding
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