The CSS Albemarle Must Be Destroyed

APRIL 21ST, 1864:Rear Admiral Lee emphasized the urgent need to destroy the CSS Albemarle. If not by gunfire, then by torpedo. He wrote Cmdr. Henry K. Davenport, senior officer in the NC sounds: "I propose that two of our vessels should attack the ram, one on each side at close quarters, and drive her roof in. //// The railroad iron will not stand the concussion of our heavy guns... Our vesels must maneuver to avoid being rammed, and once close alongside, there will be no danger of firing into each other.... I think the ram must be weak, and must fail if attacked on the side." //// Definitely a Lot Easier Said Than Done. --Old B-R'er