John G. Barnard to J. C. Kelton, October 27, 1863

“ashington, October 27, 1863.

Col. J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant-General, Hdqrs. U. S. Army: CoLoNEL : The works which constitute the defenses of Washington have been separately (and sometimes hastily) armed with such ord- nance as might be available at the moment. Thinking it probable that the efficiency of the works would be promoted and_economy consulted by a revision, I would suggest that a Board of Officers be appointed for that purpose.

ae suggest the namesof Brig. Gen. G. A. De Russy, Lieut. Col. J. A. Haskin, Col. A. A. Gibson, Col. L: O. Morris, Col. A. Piper, Col. T. R. Tannatt, Col. H. L. Abbot, and Col. J. C. Tidball.

Their instructions should be to report—

1. Whether and how the armament can be simplified by an interchange of calibers, having in view the least number of calibers at

each work.

2. Whether any of the works require additions to their permanent armament, and what.

3. Whether any reduction of permanent armament may be made without detriment to efficiency in any of the works, having in view the relations of each to all the others constituting the system.

4. Whether the number of guns on barbette carriages may or should be further reduced.

5. Any other recommendations the Board think proper to make.

The Chiefs of Artillery and Engineers should be directed to furnish all information needed to the Board, and their report should be submitted to them for comment or approval.

very respectfully, your most obedient servant,