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            Dept Head Quarters
                Yorktown Aug 23d 1861

Wm G Young Esq

  Denbigh Warwick River
  Dear Sir
          Gen Magruder directs me 

to inform you that he contemplates recommending the purchase of your schooner “Roach,” for the purpose of converting her in a floating battery protecting her sides with rail road iron at an angle of 45*, or by other means.

              He wishes to know your 

views as to making this change use of the schooner, her dimensions, and fitness. I remain, dear Sir,

             Very respectfully yours 

                     Henry Ryan 
                         A.D.C.