Headquarters,
Richmond, Va., May 1, 1862
General Joseph E. Johnston,
Commanding, &c., Yorktown, Va.:
General: Your letter of the 29th, relative to the supposed plans of General McClellan and their result upon your movements, as well as that of the 30th, has been received and submitted to the President. The feasibility of the proposition contained in the latter has been the subject of consideration with him for some time, so far as advancing a column to the Potomac with all the troops that can be made available. The proposed invasion of Ohio by General Beauregard, however desirable, it is feared at this time is impracticable, though it will also be considered. He concurs in your views as to the benefits to be obtained by taking the offensive, and is very desirous of being able to carry it into effect.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R E Lee,
General
Source: The War of the Rebellion, Series 1, Volume 11, Part 3, p. 485
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2018 November 26
