Headquarters of the Virginia Forces,
Richmond, Va., June 14, 1861
His Excellency John Letcher, Governor of Virginia:
Sir: The defensive works about Richmond are progressing so slowly, from the want of laborers, that I think it proper to call your attention to the subject, that you may submit it to the city council for their consideration and action. I beg leave, also, to suggest that all available persons in an about Richmond be organized for the defense of the city; that they provide themselves with such arms as each can procure, and that arrangements be made for the fabrication of suitable ammunition. These are intended as precautionary measures, which can better be made now than upon the eve of the emergency, should it arise.
Very respectfully, &c.,
R E Lee
General, Commanding.
Source: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series 1, Vol. 2, p. 926.
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2016 June 14
