Van Brunt, G.J., 1801-? to A. A. Harwood
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05331.02 Author/Creator: Van Brunt, G.J., 1801-? Place Written: Hampton Roads, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 February 1862 Pagination: Order a Copy
Marked "Private." Sends a report on the CSS "Merrimac" to Captain Harwood, the Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance, based on his examination of William West, a rigger who had been aboard the vessel and later "made his escape from Norfolk." Van Brunt says that "there have been so many reports about the 'Merrimac' & her movements, which have been false - I send you this under the belief that it is correct. We may expect her [the Merrimac] down at any moment & if she comes it will be my endeavour to prevent her return - I can get this ship [the Minnesota] under weigh night or day in 10 minutes - Steam always up Guns loaded." Says an article in the Norfolk "Day-Book" claiming that the "Merrimac" is a failure was "a blind." Adds that "West says he heard the officers in the Yard laughing about hoaxing the Yankees - He further says the Union feeling predominately among all classes of people both in Norfolk & Portsmouth." Notes he has received letters from "Goldsborough & other friends at Hatteras Inlet - they have done & are doing good service." Discusses giving Goldsborough shell & powder, but has no shrapnel to send. Says the ship might leave dock at any moment. Says he can get the "Minnesota" up and running day or night in 10 minutes. Says there has been a hoax article on the "Merrimac" in the Norfolk "Day-Book" that the Confederates have gotten a laugh over. Says he has received letters from "Goldsborough & other friends" detailing their "good service." Claims "We are all in glorious Spirits, & only want the opportunity to do something, this taking care of Fortress Monroe is slow work & I think I have had my share of it." Hopes he is ordered to take Norfolk. One engravig, "Naval Engagement in Hampton Roads" depicting Merrimac and Monitor included.
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