To George Washington from Henry Lee, 2 May 1793
From Henry Lee
Richmond May 2d 1793
Sir,
The very defenceless Situation of the town of Norfolk and its proximity to the Sea invites the insult and injury of any adventuring pirate who may find it convenient to make the attempt.1
I cannot therefore forbear Suggesting the propriety of placing that town and post in a state of defence fitted to protect it from those injuries to which alone it can be exposed So long as the wise policy declared in your late proclamation be adhered to.2
On this subject I beg to be favoured with your Sentiments as soon as convenience will permit,3 and have the honor &c.
Henry Lee
LB, Vi: Executive Letter Book, 1792–94.
1. For continued efforts by Governor Lee to fortify Norfolk, see Lee to Thomas Jefferson, 8 May, Jefferson to Lee, 21 May, in 25:688, 26:76–77; 132, 140, 146. For Norfolk’s current defensive state, see Thomas Newton, Jr., and William Lindsay to GW, 5 May.
3. GW had Henry Knox reply to Lee (Knox to GW, 10 May, and note 2).