Robert E. Lee to T. H. Houmes, July 27, 1861

Brig. Gen. T. H. HouMEs, Commanding at Fredericksburg, Brooke’s Station, Va.:

GENERAL: I regret to learn that the proposed construction of the batteries at the mouth of the Rappahannock at this time will interfere with your arrangements. I had hoped it would occupy time that could be thus advantageously used. I have, however, submitted the questions to the President, who, concurring in the general advantages of occupying the Potomac, thinks it more prudent first to shut up the Rappahannock. I shall not enter into the arguments bearing on the questions at this time, as they will no doubt present themselves to you, but will merely state that the latter object is one of defense, not merely of the banks of the river, but of the country to your rear; whereas the former is one of defense, to be entered on as soon as you are ready to oppose the resistance that will be offered by the enemy. I do not think the Rappahannock will occupy you long, if the work is commenced with promptness and prosecuted with vigor. And in this view I recommend that you undertake it with sufficient force to prevent its interruption. After the batteries are placed in a defensive position, _ your covering force can be withdrawn and left to the garrisons you assign them. Two companies might be taken for the battery on Gray’s Point from Lowry, two from the point near by, and two others, probably of those mentioned in a former letter, reported to have been organized.

Respectfully,