1899.] CALENDAR OF THE WEEDOX CORRESrONDENCE. 109 



Russell, Thomas: 

 lySo. — October ji. Richmond. — Order to collect a fleet of flat- 

 bottomed boats not to exceed twenty, and to station them at 

 Hoods, on James river. No. 21. 



Spotswood (Gen.) : 

 1 78 1 . — April 27. Fredericksburg. — The Marquis anxious for a few 

 horse to protect him till his reinforcements arrive. He is on 

 his way to Richmond where there is not a man in arms. 

 Enemy supposed to be in Petersburg. Richmond probably 

 their next object. Need for cavalry. No. 91. 



Steuben, Baron : 



1 781 . — April I. Williamsburg. — Letter of 28th ult. communicated 

 change of position of troops. From information received, 

 expected an attack, therefore drew (our) extended line to- 

 gether. Gen. Muhlenberg's orders were to keep near the 

 enemy's lines, but before he knew their designs, they em- 

 barked. 700 of them crossed over to Newport 'News with 

 intention of beating up troops at the Half-way House. Find- 

 ing them withdrawn, they secretly and silently returned. Only 

 nine small and shattered vessels of the enemy got up to Ports- 

 mouth with reinforcements. Incloses examination of some 

 deserters. Murmuring of the people consequent on the with- 

 drawal of his troops ; has sent detachments there to pacify 

 them. Arms badly needed. Disposition of vessels and 

 boats. No. 67. 



1 78 1. — April I. Acknowledging letter of 29th ult. Incloses a 

 letter to him from Gen. Muhlenberg, with an apology for hav- 

 ing opened it. AVill see by it that the withdrawal of troops 

 from below was exceedingly judicious, the enemy intending to 

 attack some part of the dispersed line. Notwithstanding the 

 necessity of the measure, the people below murmur and 

 threaten to make terms with the enemy. Thinks of sending 

 a light corps there with a prudent officer. Exceedingly dis- 

 tressed for arms. Would like 200 sent on immediately. 

 Disposition of boats. Marquis' barge made prize of a vessel 

 on James river, fitted out on a pirate plan, which had done 

 much mischief to the shores of Maryland and Virginia. Mr. 

 Lane sent the rascals to the Governor to meet their just 

 rewards. No. 65. 



