February 23, 1865: Robert E. Lee to P. G. T. Beauregard

Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard was a Louisiana-born general of the Confederate States Army. He had graduated second in his class from West Point in 1838 and was an admirer of Napoleon. He achieved fame early in the Civil War for commanding the Fort Sumter bombardment and as the victor of the first battle of Manassas. He later served in the Western Theater (including Shiloh and Corinth), Charleston, and the defense of Richmond, but his career was hampered by friction with Jefferson Davis and other generals.

This telegram is from The Telegraphic History of the Civil War; a compiled album of telegrams to Beauregard from Davis, Lee, Johnston and others.

Telegram 2-23-65 Lee to Beauregard 10 mp

Transcript:

Dispatched by Telegraph from Head Qrs A.N. Va 23rd Feby 1865

To Genl Beauregard – Chester

If enemy turns east McLaws will be in danger. Hasten him forward also mass all troops in your rear to retard and embarrass enemy until you can bring them forward.

 

Citation:Robert E. Lee (1807-1870), telegram to G.T. Beauregard. 23 February 1865. In The telegraphic history of the Civil War, 1861-1865. AMs 434/16

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