From the Richmond Whig, 1/21/1864, p. 2, c. 3

Shall They be Spiked?

The Chicago Journal relates the adventures of Thos. J. Orr and William Cummin, two Yankees who escaped from the Libby prison and found their way to Williamsburg. They passed through a line of fortifications, some three miles in extent, near James river, about four miles from Richmond. Heavy guns were in position, and many of them, but not a soldier was to seen in or about the works, and Orr says if he could have found any spiking materials he certainly could and would have spiked every gun on the fortifications, there being nothing to prevent him. But he had no time for delay, especially since his companion, having a painful wound, required much care, and could not walk rapidly.

At the time of the Stoneman raid, it was related that an old gentleman living near the city, finding one of the batteries deserted, and fearing the guns would be spiked, got another man to aid him, and stood guard over the guns all night. Reporting the fact the next morning to the proper officer, he was requested to repeat the favor the next night. There was some excuse for this request, as our troops were called off in pursuit of the Yankee raiders. But the guns ought now to be guarded and inspected daily. We hope they are.

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