Alfred L. Rives to J. B. Magruder, July 10, 1861

General J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding Department: Sir: In accordance with your instructions, we have the honor to submit the following report on the number of guns required for the defenses in the vicinity of Williamsburg : The number of guns on hand at this place is two 12-pounders, in working order, with ammunition; eight 6-pounders, in working order, with ammunition; two 6-pounders, to be mounted in a few days. For the works now in course of construction at a minimum armament of two guns to each redoubt, there are required, in addition, eight pieces (12 or 24 pounder howitzers) for redoubts, and three heavy 8-inch columbiads or 9-inch Dahlgren navy guns for shore defense, viz, two at Spratley’s and one near Grove Wharf. Of the eight light pieces required, it is very desirable that four should constitute a mounted battery to be used in operating at favorable points beyond the works and to prevent a landing on the shore in the vicinity. Besides, it would be ‘indispensable to protect any retreat that might be necessary to be made.

. ALFRED L. RIVES,