June 14, 1864: Lee Telegram to 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.

Transcript:

Dated Riddleys Shop June 14 1864

Rec’d at Dunlop 1864

To Genl G T Beauregard

Your dispatches are received. enemy appears to be moving towards James River, is crossing Chickahomoney low down all his troops reposted at Forge Bridge. Should he move on Petersburg I recommend you reinforce that place. Troops from Chaffins & [Deeneys?] can replace yours. Should enemys whole army cross to south side this army can cross also. We must be wary & not be deceived by enemys movements. Communication across James river should be kept as perfect as possible.

R. E. Lee

78/Called 15.60 McS

Citation:Robert E. Lee (1807-1870), telegram to G.T. Beauregard. 14 June 1864. In The telegraphic history of the Civil War, 1861-1865. AMs 434/16