[565] position at Port Walthall Junction, from thence to protect Drury's Bluff, the railroad, and Petersburg; the ironclad gunboats guarding the crossing of James River as far below Chaffin's Bluff as practicable. If Johnson's division were ordered to the north side of James River it would then be necessary to occupy the junction with at least one brigade of infantry, assisted by such cavalry (at least two regiments) as might be spared from General Dearing's brigade, or other cavalry in the field, to watch closely in front of the enemy's lines across Bermuda Hundreds Neck, and give timely notice of any offensive expedition from that quarter. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Telegram.
Have no further developments of enemy's forces in my front since my letter this morning to you. Please inform me if Ransom's brigade shall be sent to north side of James River; it constitutes one-third of my force, and will be only one-twenty-fifth of Lee's. I will obey with alacrity any order of the Department, and will do the best possible under existing circumstances.
Telegram.
Ransom's brigade is required for temporary service north of James River. Please send it immediately across at Drury's Bluff, with orders to proceed without delay to Bottom's Bridge and report to the senior officer there.
Telegram.
General Lee urges reinforcements to Ransom on north side James River. The question is again submitted to you. Have you any further developments of the enemy. It is certain Butler, with a large portion of his force, is in Lee's front.
Telegram.
Despatch of 9 P. M., ordering Ransom's brigade to Bottom's Bridge, has just been received. It will leave immediately after being relieved from the lines.
Telegram.
Ransom's brigade will leave here to-night for Bottom's Bridge, crossing at Drury's Bluff.
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1883. Harper. New York.
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