| Headquarters |
| Dabb's House, Va. |
| June 21, 1862
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| Hon. S. R. Mallory
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| Secretary of the Navy
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| Richmond, Va.
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| Sir,
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| I have been informed by Colonel Gorgas
that the railroad battery {for use on the
Richmond & York River RR} will be ready for service
to-morrow. Inasmuch as this battery has been constructed by the
Navy, I would be pleased if you assigned an officer and a requisite
number of men to take charge of and operate it. If you desire to do
so, I request that you will designate the officer at once, as I wish
to place the battery in position to-morrow. I am very much obliged
to you for your kindness as well as promptness in its construction.
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| I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
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| R. E. Lee
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