Letter from William H. Aspinwall to Gustavus Vasa Fox, August 2, 1862

Letter from William H. Aspinwall to Gustavus Vasa Fox, August 2, 1862

 Tarrytown, Aug. 2?, 1862

My dear Fox

I have been thinking for some time about the probability that a properly shaped cylindrical shot fired 6 or 8 feet under water will be the next improvement on iron clad vessels. At short range great effect could be attained below the iron plating. Would it not be well to make experiments now that the water is warm -- either at West Point Foundry or some other convenient place, with a gun slung between a couple of scows, and fired by a wire?

I have the plan for firing a gun projecting 6 or 8 or 10 feet below the water line of a vessel, which I think would work well, if it is found the shot can be relied on to do the intended injury -- under water.
[p. 347]

Would it not be well to mention this to Secretary Welles for his consideration?

Very truly

Your friend

Wm. H. Aspinwall