An extract of RA L.M. Goldsborough's letter to Secretary Welles of February 26, 1864 regarding Ironclad Vessels, one paragraph of which deals with his thoughts regarding Rams.

"Rams, intended purely for harbor defence, would be the better without than with guns. They themselves are to be the projectiles; or, if you please, they are to be the shot, and the steam is to be the powder; and the effect of both, properly combined, would be absolutely irresistable. Guns, I repeat, would be detrimental to the unity of purpose, and also in other respects; or, in short, be of more harm than good in the long run. Besides, to to fit the rams for them would be to swell the item of cost largely, and thus abridge their multiplication and the distinctive plating which their protection would involve could be used to more advantage elsewhere around the hull. The essential points to be secured in these rams, each to a degree as consistently with all the rest as practicable, are the great strenght throughout every part of the hull, not overlooking the bottom by any manner of means; every protection that supportable plating can afford; a high velocity; an amble security of machinery; the utmost rapidity in turning; and a suitable bow."