John G. Barnard to E, M. Stanton, September 23, 1863

Hon. E, M. STANTON, Secretary of War:

Sir: By letter of the 1st instant, I represented the importance of speedily arming the two works built for the defense of the Potomac approach to Washington. At your request I mentioned the number of improved sea-coast_ guns which I thought should be immediately supplied, and I mentioned eight, in consideration of the great demand for guns at the different sea-ports.

This was an off-hand statement, and I have since reflected on the matter, and have come to the conclusion that since there is no armament in Fort Washington of any value whatever, and that these two works will constitute, just now, the real defenses of Washington against maritime attack, the full armament of these works (namely, three 15-inch guns and thirteen 200-pounders) should be

urnished very speedily. In case of war with a maritime power, allied with the rebellion, the defense of Washington can hardly be considered second in importance to that of New York.

I have, therefore, to request that in your directions to the Ordnance Department it may be directed to furnish the last-mentioned number of guns as speedily as possible.

very respectfully, your most obedient,