General Lee pointed out that a back up capital would be needed as the war turned in the favor of the North. Lee pointed out that it would only be a matter of time before they would have to abandon Petersburg, therefore Richmond's last defense would fall and Richmond would be next. Danville was a better, more defensible location. It also had access to railroad lines that would allow for a quick getaway if that was needed. Danville also had a large store of weapons.
