March 5, 1862 (Wednesday): "The President Is Apprehensive"

General Robert E. Lee

HEADQUARTERS,.

Richmond, Va., March 5, 1862.

General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON,.
Commanding, &c., Army of Northern Virginia:.
    GENERAL: It has been reported that some of the enemy's gunboats have reached West Point. The President is apprehensive that they may ascend the Pamunkey before the obstructions in that river are completed, and thus get possession of the grain, &c., in that valley. He thinks if you could send a good light battery, supported by infantry, to a favorable point on the Pamunkey, it would have the effect of delaying the advance of the enemy, if not of preventing him. Not knowing your position or movements, I do not know whether this is practicable. He is also anxious to receive a reply to his dispatch to you of the 1st instant. As it may not have reached you, I inclose a copy.*
    I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant,.


     R. E. LEE,.
    General.

*Not found.

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 5, Part 1, Page 1090.

Johnston was probably not thrilled by Lee's return from the coast to the President's inner circles.