Unknown to Walter Gwynn, April 30, 1861

General WALTER GWYNN, Commanding Virginia Forces, near Norfolk, Va.:

GENERAL: In the report of Col. Andrew Talcott, describing the defenses of Norfolk and Portsmouth, there is no mention of any projected work designed to prevent the ascent of the Nansemond River, by which it seems that attacking parties might approach the navy-yard from the west. Are defenses necessary in that quarter? It is desirable, so far as possible, to regulate the labor you may require in all your departments by the wants of the several departments, and to direct it to the best advantage, so as to limit the expense as much as possible.

Very respectfully,