| Headquarters Department of Northern Virginia |
| May 22, 1862 |
| |
| Major General Huger
|
| Commanding, Petersburg
|
|
|
| Dear General,
|
| *****
|
| Could the railroad company {the
Richmond & Petersburg RR} furnish the means of
transporting your whole force at once; if not, how much of it? I
suppose at least half, and that in that way all might be brought in
the course of a night without the fatigue of a march. How long a
time would be required to collect the engines and cars necessary for
your purpose? Can any arrangement be made now which would expedite
your starting any time? If so, please have it made.
|
| You will oblige me by giving to the
officer who will deliver this to you a statement of your force in
infantry, cavalry, and artillery -- such as you can have made from
the knowledge of your staff officers or your own, without reference
elsewhere.
|
| Any suggestions or information which you
can give will oblige me greatly. The position you should occupy is
matter of great interest. If the railroad can furnish you quick
transportation, Petersburg may be that point; otherwise it will be
necessary I think for you to place yourself near Drewry's Bluff,
with a strong rear guard at Petersburg.
|
| J. E. Johnston
|
| General
|
|