CAMP, 30th April, 1864.
MY DEAR CUSTIS:
Nothing of much interest has occurred during the past week.
The reports of scouts all indicate large preparations on the part of the enemy,
and a state of readiness for action. The Ninth Corps is reported to be encamped
(or rather was on the 27th) on the O. & A. R. R., between Fairfax Ct. H.
and Alexandria.
This is corroboration of information sent the President
yesterday, but there may be some mistakes as to the fact or number of corps.
All their troops north of the Rappahannock have been moved south, their guards
called in, etc. The garrisons, provost guards, etc., in Northern cities have
been brought forward and replaced by State troops. A battalion of heavy
artillery is said to have recently arrived in Culpeper, numbering 3,000.
I presume these are the men stated in their papers to have
been drawn from the forts in N. Y. Harbor. I wish we could make corresponding
preparations. If I could get back Pickett, Hoke, and B. R. Johnson, I would
feel strong enough to operate.
I have been endeavoring for the last eight or ten days to
move Imboden against the B. & O. R. R. in its unprotected state, but have
not been able. I presume he has his difficulties, as well as myself. I am
afraid it is too late now. I cannot yet get the troops together for want of
forage, and am looking for grass.
Endeavor to get accurate information from the Peninsula,
James River, etc. My scouts have not returned from Annapolis, and may get back
too late.
Your affectionate
father,
R. E. LEE.
GEN. G. W. CUSTIS LEE.
SOURCE: John William Jones, Life and Letters of
Robert Edward Lee: Soldier and Man, p. 305
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