Hd-Qrs: 25 June ’62
His Excel Pres: Davis
I really do not know enough about Wm D. Smith to speak of his qualifications, or to say whether he would answer for the position - He must know but little of Coast defense. If Huger will answer send him - Gen. R. H. Anderson can replace him - There was an attack upon Hugers lines this more & he was absent I am told - Not at his qrs: this more I have just sent him an order to take his position with his troops & to remain with them.
Very respy
R. E. Lee Genl.
W. J. De Renne CollectionWormsloe, Chatham County, Georgia (1914)
Printed in Douglas Southall Freeman, Lee’s Dispatches, Dispatch No. 5.