U.S. Mil. Acady. 13 March 1854
Genl.
With materials on hand, the labour of the enlisted men & the purchase of some timber, locks & hinges, grates, lime, building shingles—I propose to erect a small house of the size & character represented in the accompanying sketch.
This will give another set of quarters for one the 1st Asst. Profssr., of which you are aware there is much need. I propose to place the house beyond the North gate, East of Capt. Boynton’s, in a portion of the lot occupied by him. The purchase of such articles as are not on hand will not cost over $600.—which will be paid for out of the present appropriation for Repairs & Improvements now available for that purpose.
CLOSING
Signed/ R. E. Lee Br. Col:
Supt: Mil: Acady
I submit this project for your approval & such amendment as you may deem fit.
I remain Very resply. Yr. obt Srvt.
Superintendent's Daily Correspondence United States Military Academy
Superintendent's Letter Book No. 3, p. 96. Addressed “Genl: Jos: G. Totten Chief Engineer Washington City D.C.”