Walker K. Armistead Letter 21 March 1813

(Extracts)
Norfolk
March 21, 1813

Sir,
Conformable to your orders I have viewed and inspected the different works in this harbor and it's vicinity. The Navy Yard is at present destitute of defence. I presume it would be proper to construct immediately temporary batteries at the entrances of the river leading to the yard, which would give a defensce to the latter, and annoyance to the enemies shipping, provided they passed the forts.
I propose to give Fort Norfolk additional defence by running in its rear a line of Redoubts, answering as a barrier to the enemy should he attempt to double his attack by land and water; and at the same time give security to Norfolk. On my arrival here I found that Genl Taylor, had taken every precaution to secure in a measure the passes and approaches to the town; they are in a great state of forwardness, I hope soon to render and give every difficulty to the enemies approach by land.
It would be proper I presume to commence a work on Craney Island and old point Comfort, as soon as an opportunity offers, with positions of these points the enemies situation in Hampton Road would be made very hazardous.

I am Sir Respecy
your obt. servt
W. K. Armistead
Lt Col Engineers

Genl J. Armstrong
Sec of War

The National Archives - 1960
the original document is in
R. G. 107, Letters Received, A-49 (7).