manassas Junction, Va.,
July 8th, 1861.
My dear Col.,
I believe we are about to be attacked by the enemy, who has
been increasing his forces rapidly in the last few days. He no doubt has at
present on this side of the Potomac at least 30,000 men — and probably as many in or about Washington;
and I am informed on good authority, that he is crossing over reinforcements in
large numbers every night; so that very shortly we probably will be
attacked by about 40,000 men! What do you suppose is my effective force to
resist this attack? About 15,000 effective men! How can it be expected that I
should be able to maintain my ground, unless reinforced, and that immediately?
I am determined to give the enemy battle no matter at what odds against us — but
is it right and proper to sacrifice so many valuable lives (and perhaps our
cause) without the least prospect of success?
I think not; but I hope that it will delay the forward
movement of the enemy, and give our friends time to come to the rescue!
I have applied two or three times for the most
essential things required here. To obtain anything with despatch, I have to
send a special messenger to Richmond. Is that the way to direct and control the
operations of an army in the field? Cannot that evil be remedied? I am sure it
could, if properly represented to the President.
I am afraid General Johnston is no better off than I am — but
his section of the country is, I believe, more easily defended, being wooded
and mountainous.
My troops are in fine spirits and anxious for a fight. They
seem to have the most unbounded confidence in me!
Oh! that I had the genius of a Napoleon to be more worthy of
our cause and of their confidence! If I can only get the enemy to attack me — as
I am trying to have done — I will stake my reputation on the handsomest victory
that could be desired.
Yours very truly,
G. T. Beauregard.
col. L. T. Wigfall,
Member of C. S. Congress, Richmond, Va.
SOURCE: Louise Wigfall Wright, A Southern Girl in
’61, p. 71-2
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