Rvol Ii to Henry A. Wise, June 30, 1861

Brig. Gen. T. H. Houmes, C. 8. A., Commanding, &c., Fredericksburg, Va.: GENERAL: I have received your letter of the 28th instant,* inclosing the report of Colonel Ruggles, in reference to Mathias Point. You will perceive, by my letter to you in reference to the erection of a battery, which you proposed at Evansport, that the establishment of one at Mathias Point cannot be decided on until you ascertain which point is the most preferable. I have, however, requested three 9-inch columbiads, with – their carriages, ammunition, &c., to be forwarded to you, that you may have them in readiness for whichever point may be determined on. While this matter is undecided, I would recommend that you adopt such measures aS may be in your power to allay the apprehensions of the ‘enemy as to the occupation by us of either point. Before breaking ground at the point that you may select for the battery, it will be necessary to have everything in readiness for its speedy construction and a sufficient covering force prepared for its protection. I will endeavor to send you another regiment as soon as one is available, and have to request that _ you will endeavor to recruit your force from volunteers of the surroundng counties.

Very respectfully, R. E. LEE,