SEPTEMBER 24TH, 1864: General Robert E. Lee wrote secretary of War Seddon of another dilemma posed by the South's weakness at sea: "Since the fitting out of the privateer Tallahassee and her cruise from the port of Wilmington, the enemy's fleet of blockaders off that coast has been very much increased, and the dangers of running the blockade rendered much greater.
"The question arises whether it is of more importance to us to obtain supplies through that port or to prey upon the enemy's commerce by privateers sent from thence.... It might be well, therefore, if practicable, to divert the enemy's attention from Wilmington Harbor and keep it open as long as possible as a port of entry.
"While it is open the energies...should be exerted...to get in two or three years' supplies so as to remove all apprehension on this score."
Lee Is Worrying About Wilmington. --Old B-R'er
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