Austin, Tex. 1st March 1864 Honnl. Joseph Holt Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I enclose you the copy of a letter to my friends in New York. Now that you are relieved from the cares of office I ask you as a friend of my family and myself for your best advice upon the subject. Should we make the change I know that your influence would be worth very much to us. And it occurs to me, that you might write a letter to some substantive friend in New York, and get his views upon the Subject. Judge Duval has not yet resigned, but, of course, he can exercise no judicial functions. The vote in favor of Secession has been trying to me. Yet around the centre where Judge Hancock and myself spoke and around Texas where my brother spoke, and in the north where Doctor Throckmorton spoke we beat them. [*5646*]2 I know that the hearts of the people are not in it. But the mastful high taxes- oppression and every evil consequence before we can hope for a reaction. I do not feel like battling it out with them under all the circumstances-- Wherever we go we shall need your assistance. For while I regarded my fortune as ample the revolution has made it worthless at present. Judge Duval is really poor with a dependent family. And to practice he must have Some one to do the speaking- Let me add that I have suggested that if he does not resign, the Government will still continue to pay his salary. But he thinks he could not conscientiously receive it, while discharging his official duties. Let me beg of you to ascertain how the fact would be and then your views of the propriety. Even that simple sum would be an object these times in getting ready to move. [*5647*]3 You will have learned that Genl. Twiggs wanted to surrender and did surrender - Capt Hill at Brownsville resists. The war may commence in Texas. Genl. Houston's feelings have not changed but he yielded too much - Pray write me soon Geo. W. Paschal [*5648*][*Mar. 1 1864*] Honbl & DearSir The sad news from Florida will show you in part why i was anxious to disclaim any responsibility for the premature movement there. The responsibility rests upon those Harpys whose persistent misrepresentations deceived at last a too credulous government. A thousand men butchered [in the ] to give profits, pickings, & places, to a worthless clique! This is the enthusiastic welcome to be given to our troops by the great majority of the people of Florida anxious to return to the union and fight for it." Very Respy ys T. D. Lowther Chicago Monday [*5649*] War Department Washington City, March 20. 1862, Hon. J. Holt. Judge Advocate Genl Sir: The papers in Capt. Ferguson's case are at my room. I will send for them immediately, and send them to you. Very respectfully, Your obt. servant, DeWitt Clinton Capt. & ADJ Judge Advocate [*5650*]Mississippi Valley Sanitary Fair St Louis Mo March 2. 1864 To All the Honorables, the Mayors of divers cities. The officers of other municipalities & corporations. The various churches, Sabbath schools, benevolent & other organizations All the Postmasters in various localities, in the United States of America. Sir You are ere this no doubt informed that the citizens of St Louis in imitation of laudable examples from other cities, & under the promptings of a desire to promote kind & charitable acts toward the soldiers exposed in the field & hospitals have undertaken to promote & hold a "Sanitary Fair" beginning on Tuesday, the 17th of May next, under the name of the "Mississippi Valley Sanitary Fair". Among other committees for this good object, a "Central Finance Committee" has been appointed, which the undersigned have the honor to represent. As the style of this Committee indicates, its duties are to promote the finances, to assist in procuring means for the inauguration & support of the "Mississippi Valley Sanitary Fair". In order to insure the most extensive co-operation, it has been deemed proper to appeal to you for your assistance. You are hereby requested to Committees formed in your locality to make & forward collections to Saml. Copp Jr Treasurer of Central Finance Committee of the Mississippi Valley Sanitary Fair, St Louis Mo. The Americas, United States, & Adams Express Co., have kindly offered to transmit funds for this object free of charge. We shall appreciate every sum large or small It is the cause of our Common Country, of universal constitutional liberty, of the glorious Union, of its noble defenders, bleeding & suffering on the Battlefield, in camps or hospitals—which—fellow citizens appeals to you. The work we have taken in hand is yours —is our cause alike. We rely on your patriotism & sense of charity, & forbear the use of more or of many words in soliciting your assistance. Every donor is requested to send exact name & address, so that the proper credit may be given & published. Earnestly soliciting your immediate action. We remain Your Obedient Servants Wm. M Morrison W A Hargadine Isaac Rosenfeld J Morris Collins W B Dietareide Robt Kreamer Aug Beneke A. Busch H. C. Creveline James Archer Morris J Sippman} Secretary} James Richardson John P. Camp E. D. Jones C. J. Richardson E. V Vidor Charles Speck James S. Thomas Charles Stern Geo W. Ford Saml Copp Jr Tres. Samuel R Filley Sylvester H. Laflin James P. Fiske W. H. Mannin Theophile Papin Edw. C. Pike Chas f Heyer Truman Woodruff E. W. Fox } Chairman } [*5651*]Louisville March 4th 1864 Hon Joseph Holt. Trusting in that friendship, which you have ever carried for my family in days long past and feeling confident that you will exert the influence which you possess with the Secretary of War. I now appeal to you. I am anxious to go south by Fortress Mound, early in April, and wish you to obtain a pass for me from Secretary Stanton to that effect. Knowing that by receiving one from him I will not have any trouble in going, which to a lady travelling alone would be disagreeable; Please write to me as soon as possible, as I shall await your reply with great anxiety. With Great resepct. [*5652*]Believe me the daughter of an old and sincere friend Josephine R. Rowan [*P.S. Direct to me to the care of john B. McIlrain & Son Louisville Ky*]Private Cincinnati March 5th 1864 Hon. J. Holt Judge Advocate General &c &c &c My dear Judge I thank you for your prompt and frank answer to my letter. I recognize what you say of the improprity of pledges as correct. Your reference to what you had done in my behalf is a sufficient response to my request and my remembrance should have been enough without further assurances. But after the friendship and confidence of our twenty years had been swept from Mr. Stanton memory by slanders and abuse I was at a loss to know where I stood. I wish you were right and I mistaken as to the malign influence. These Maryland people have been too much for me. But thank God I do not live by their consent and will survive their efforts. The opposition to our bill, I have learned since writing to you comes from an unexpected quarter. I will tell you of it when we meet. The bill will become a law never the [*5653*]less. The military men in congress an warmly in its favor and they will push it through. At least so they write to me. Had I been permitted to remain in Washington I firmly believe so just a measure would now be a law. It only wants some one to make it a specialty. I cannot believe the President would appoint assistants without consultation with you to a bureau when the responsibility rests on your shoulders. It has not been the practice and I should have little respect for, or confidence in the man who would accept the place without your nomination. Feeling that I could be of little use in the service without the confidence of the Department I sent on my resignation through General Schenck. The General took the liberty of retaining it. In the mean time I am awaiting orders. The war over the nominee for President among the loyal men waxes warmer and will and are such fights generally do, in a compromise on a new man. I remain Judge Yours Sincerely Donn PiattBardstown Ky. March 8? '64 Honble. Joseph Holt. My Daughter Mrs Sheridan has just arrived at home, and has spoken in such terms in reference to your kindness & Courtesy extended to her & to my son, that I felt it to be my duty to tender to you, my most sincere thanks & grateful acknowledgement, and I hope, My Dear Sir, to have it in my power at some future period, to reciprocate. I am requested by my Daughter to say, that she desires to be most kindly remembered to you. With Highest Regard I Am Yr friend Truly Geo. W. Hite [*5654*]Frederick March 8. 1864. Hon. J. Holt. Dear Sir Eliza has obtained a box of butter for you. She bought it at market and of my butter man. The butter that Mr Wachter brings is uniformly good. I did not look at that which Eliza got at market. She thinks it will do. She put it up also. I trust it will reach you safely and prove passable. Mrs Diehl and Marie at still at Easten. I will go for them in a few days. Our town was thrown into great excitement on Sunday evening, by the rumors [*5655*]put in circulation that a body of rebel cavalry were making a raid in this direction. It seems that Gen. Augur sent a telegram to the Commandant at Harpers-ferry that there were indications of a movement by the rebels toward Maryland, and that the crossing places should be guarded by a considerable force. Gen. Sullivan at the Ferry sent Col. Maulsby with a section of artillery to Frederick. Immediately cavalry scouts were sent along all the roads leading to the Potomac. These circumstances produced the excitement. I shall be glad if you can come and spend a Sunday with us, soon after my family shall have returned. Yours truly Geo. DiehlRevd. Geo. Diehl.[*Mar 9*] Stickney, Frazier, Remington, &c are the ring leaders here alluded to. Let them be known & discredited that they may do no more mischief. Very Respy T.D.L. [*5656*]Louisville March 9th, 1864 Hon Joseph Holt. Upon reflection I fear that my letter to you, in relation to my desire for you to obtain a pass for me to go South was not sufficiently explicit, and I have deemed it proper to lay the case before you; Although it is a very delicate matter, I had been my engaged to be married to a gentleman. (Who resides in the South) for the past three years. And he has found it impossible to come here. He has insisted so earnestly for me to come South. That Ma has finally given her consent, which she has refused for two years; and I am now awaiting most anxiously a pass permitting me to go. The gentleman is not and never has been in the Army; I desire to live here, by the 1st of [*5654*]April, I sincerely trust that the facts which I have staled to you, will induce President Lincoln, to grant me a pass; With much respect Believe me your freind Josephine R. RowanThe American Telegraph Company. PRINTING AND MORSE LINES. DIRECT TO ALL STATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES AND BRITISH PROVINCES. OFFICES.—432 Pennsylvania Av., U.S. CAPITOL, and Willard's the Metropolitan and National Hotels, Washington, D.C. TERMS AND CONDITIONS ON WHICH THIS AND ALL MESSAGES ARE RECEIVED BY THIS COMPANY FOR TRANSMISSION. In order to guard against errors or delays in the transmission or delivery of messages, every message of importance ought to be REPEATED by being sent back from the station at which it is to be received to the station from which it is originally sent. Half the usual price for transmission will be charged for repeating the message, and while this Company will, as heretofore, use every precaution to ensure correctness, it will not be responsible for errors or delays in the transmission or delivery of repeated messages beyond FIFTY dollars, unless a special agreement for insurance be made and paid for at the time of sending the message, and the amount of risk specified on this agreement; nor is the Company to be responsible for any error or delay in the transmission or delivery or non-delivery of any repeated message, BEYOND FIVE DOLLARS, unless in like manner specially insured and amount of risk paid for at the time. No liability is assumed for any error or neglect by any other Company over whose lines this message may be sent to reach its destination. No liability for any errors in cipher messages. CAMBRIDGE LIVINGSTON, Sec'y 145 BROADWAY, N.Y. E.S. SANFORD, Pres't 145 BROADWAY, N.Y. 12W Dated Louisville 11th 1864. Rec'd, Washington, Mch. 11th 1864, o'clock, min. M. To Hon. Jos. Holt City Washn Please see President Lincoln and Genl. Grant and urge that Genl. Burbridge shall remain in command of the Dist. of Kentucky there is trouble brewing in this state in the negroe enrollment and genl- [*5658*]New Loudon March 12 ' 64 Our dear Mr. Holt I would so much rather than you in person for your dear, kind letter, that I almost hesitate to write you half I feel, fearing I shall not do my self or you justice in the matter. It is so much more satisfactory to look at one, whose thoughts are sympathetic and respond intelligently by voice, instead of by sending ink records - You think I had been sad so I have been - so I am, a great part of my time, and it is a sadness of daily growth and unintentioned (culture - 5659 the half upon my mind to say, but I'll spare your most gentle clemency and give you my prayers tonight, since I cannot be with you to say them in church tomorrow. Have you been pleased with Genl. Grant? I hope I may go to New York next month, but only faintly, for my day of pleasure is to past and gone - I feel with a heart that wants to but friendly sympathy soothes and often chases away the momentary bitterness. Your letters are a healing balm, besides being an inspiration to a healthier feeling. You find it almost mysterious that one who can if she possessed the opportunity dispense so much happiness should offer sorrows to creep in and desolate her own heart. Thank you, with ten thousand thanks for your cheering words. Hope and Faith watch words recalling you vividly. How politically you think as well as write. You ought to have been existing a quarter of century earlier, to have bowed at such a pleasure of beauty and intellect as Lady Blessingtons, the almost perfect woman of her time. I believe under such an electric inspiration as hers, who brought feeling from stony hearts (not that yours is one) and towering brains, your ideas would have resolved themselves into rhyme oftener than in this age. I have been reading her life and memories with such a new zest lately - The letters of so many distinguished men of learning and wit carry one into the mindset of her circle - and poets, scholars and statesmen Politicians and [?] If you ever allow yourself so much relaxation as to pore over these books by Madden, by a midnight lamp, or any [*go with my paper. I must close. You flatter me by your kind expression for ever may you be happy is the desire of*]other in fact - you will agree with me I am since stratin therein is a most delightful picture of a great many wise and noted people - I last night enjoyed myself more than I have done intellectually for months past, and where do you suppose and how? Why in the house of the Ex Mayor of this city, and at the dinner given the Naval Committee for Washington. You probably know there were about sixteen or eighteen of those gentlemen sent here among them. Genls. L Chenk & Garfield of the Military Committee. Mr. Carson of the Navy and Amerst, Mr. Rollins of Missouri who admires you. Col. Deming of Conn, than whom a reaplier [sic] wit, never shown forth keener flames of sarcasm. Mr[?] [margin] your sincere fried. H D GRice, the Chairman Mr. Brandigel of this city, a sparkling brilliant fellow, Judge Kelly of Pennsylvania, Morelniag & a number of others too numerous to mention. The company was a most genial one and under the excitement of wine or each others mutual admiration of the confluence of the Fort Band and the ladies, I know not which, we had some most telling speeches - Garfield pleased me highly, so did Rollings, Deming and Brandegee [?] brought forth mirth and jollity but the first two, and Mr. Griswold of New York interested me. Rollins was a very great appreciator of yourself. There is a kind of quiet refinement about him combined with his patriotism, 5660 which impressed me – and then after the dinner we talked of you, and one of your contemporaries, of former times, Sargent L. Prentiss- Oh, how I thought of your eloquence when I listened to theirs, and how I listened with a critical comparison. Mr Rollins spoke of the first speech you made after the first commencement of the rebellion. Why can you not send it to me? He pronounces it [as] the greatest speech you ever made, and [as] one of the most splendid efforts of genius— as almost equal in its patriotism which of course was, transcendant. Besides this, I had another favor to ask of you which it your picture- I recollect that you quite promised if I would abide your time patiently you would some day and not very far distant consent to be taken- not by a fair one (although I receive rumors of yr devotion to one) but by the Prince of Artists, Brady, who had the pride to tell me when I was in New York that you had consented to sit for him! Is it so, and have you been successful? I shall not give you any peace until you remember this request- So Mr Lyon did not say much of me— How could he, when I did not see him? I have not seen him since I left W. last spring- I am glad if he has obtained his gratification of ambitious news. He is rather a pleasant acquaintancethan a reliable friend--I like him and admire his versatility, but do not correspond with him-- I should really like to hear of Mrs. Whiting but she has been equally uncivil to me as yourself in point of keeping her own counsel-- I presume she is in New York--from Mrs. Pierpont I heard at the same time you wrote me last-- She wrote warmly of her enjoyment at your dinner-- I wish I had been there indeed-- If my face were [?] "lustrous" before and it is dull enough now. it would have borrowed radiance under your "roof tree"--I am as Mrs W said quaintly one day, "out of love with myself"--an unfortunate consciousness of defunct power. In reaching the end of my sheet I find myself not able to sayState of Massachusetts City of Worcester March 12. 1864 Hon Joseph Holt Allow me to introduce to you William S. Davis Esq, a relative of late Hon John Davis of Mass. Mr Davis was edicated at Cambridge College - Studied Law at Cambridge Law School - entered the profession in this City & has practiced Law here with distinguished ability Mr Davis is a Gentleman of unblemised character, a[n] very able lawyer, & of strict integrity. It give me great pleasure to commend him to your favorable consideration With sentiments of great respect I am Sir your friend & Obt Sert Isaac Davis [*5661*]Glasglow 12th March 1864 My Dear Sir, We have had no letter from you now since that of 16th Decb 1863 and are beginning to get anxious to hear from you again, I write you every four weeks and upon the whole you appear to get them pretty regularly, your means of dispatch will not likely be so regular which may account for the long intervals that sometimes intervene between your letters. We are all in our usual health and otherwise everything going on as wont to be [*5662*]I am just on the eve of beginning to erect new workshop and will have for a few months a very busy time of it, keeping the old one in working trim and getting the new one ready for future operations. I have had experience of these already as you know, and under worse auspices; yet it was earlier in life; but even now I cannot say that I am much less (if any) able for the undertaking than I was in former years, both health and Strength continuing I may say unimpaired, for which I am thankfull. Letters can be addressed as formerly as I will likely retain a portion of the old premises, at least for a time, as an office or store. but in any case, addressed to me in Glasgow will find me altho' no locality in it be mentioned. I have formerly mentioned that Wm Merric is now in London, I had a letter from Robt last week he is still in Greenock but I have not seen any of them since the new year holidays, none of them having called since, neither have I been in Greenock, I see by today's paper that the "Dare's" cargo was saved, altho' damaged and we are entertaining hopesnow that you may have got some of the things that we sent with her, but I will wait further instructions as mentioned in my last to you regarding the "Illustrated News", unless I fall in with the complete vols. Wanted. Mr. J. S. McLeish just sailed lately for Bermuda his address is at Chas H. Hobson St Georges Bermuda, he may run across, and in that case you may meet as he will be on the look out. Capt Ewing, next door , his son William is engineer in the Steamer "Emilie" Blockade- runner, if letters reach him he will have one for you; you will remember him perfectly Coles' plan is absurd, Hoping that you are in all respects as well as we at home I am &c Robt BrooksWar Department Washington City March 12th 1864 J.M. Goodwin Esq War Dept J.C. Fillebrown is to be tried by a Military Commission and the papers in his case were sent to the Judge Advocate General Feby 26th ult for that purpose. If the charges & specifications are filed, I suppose there will be no objection to granting Mr Dickens a pass to visit him (Fillebrown) It is not customary to grant passes until the charges & specifications are filed against the prisoner L.C. [Turney?] Judge Advocate over [*5663*]Hon. C.A. Dana Asst Sec. of War desires to know whether the charges and specifications as J.L. Fillebrown have been filed I have the honor to request the Judge Advocate General to give the [?] for information By order Asst Sec. War JW Goodwin' ClkMajr Turner: Worchester, Mass March 12, 1864 Hon Joseph Holt My Dear Sir: It gives me much pleasure to introduce to your favorable notice, Wm S. Davis, Esq of this city, who I understand is about to enter the public service in your Department. Mr. Davis is a young lawyer of high standing in this community and I have no doubt will prove himself worthy of your entire confidence. Very Truly Your obt svt Thos H. DodgeHdQrs. 46th Va Regt. Wilkes S.C. March 13th 1864 My dear Lillie To what must I attribute your long silence: Have you become bored with my letters or is it because you have seen me lately that you dont think it worth while to write. This makes the sixth letter I have written and started home. I will write this and if you dont think it worth while to reply I shall consider myself exonerated from all blame; Here it is Sunday 11 o'clock a.m. You are perhaps in Church listening to the word of God, as it falls from the Parsons lips I am in Camp haven't heard a sermon for two years. Our Regiment is isolated from all the good effects resulting from a good preaching- We have a Chaplain, Methodist too: Jno Allen- like- very interesting man, both in and out of the Church. Yet he has never preached yet at Hd.Qrs. the Regiment being scattered in such small detachments that he attends to them I expect you think it strange that I should be at Regimental Head Quarters and the Co. on John's Island. But such is the fact. I have been ever since my return from home on detail. Now I am Acting Ordinance Seargent of the 46th Virginia Infantry: Tom Paulson having gone off to get married. He was married. I could not attend the marriage because as I had just returned from Furlough- [they] He /Genl Wise would grant me leave of absence [*5665*]The 19th of Febuary last we were ordered to Florida; but a misunderstanding haveing occurred betwen Our Colonl and Genl. Wise, Genl Wise substituted the 69th Regiment of this Brigade. thinking if he let us go that the Col. might attempt to get our Regiment detached from the Brigade Instead of going to Florida, we were ordered to Church Flats, where 4 Cr's. of our Regiment were sent to John's Isd. two left at Church Flats and three with Hd. Qrs. were sent to this place about 5 miles from Charleston Since then Our Colonel has left us to never return to us - unless the Regiment is detached from Genl. Wise. They have had a pretty spicy correspondence, 35 pages foolscap at a writing. Col. Duke is Common Wealth attorney for Albemarle County - and for that reason he can get off from the Regiment. I had a detail to go to Ga - on Government business - but the Regiment was ordered off and Tour wanted to go on to Richmond. so I had to give it up - Lillie you dont know. You cant conceive of the Anxiety I have to get a letter from you I want to head from home, so badly, write me long letters, write often and give them to Somebody that Knows the Coming of the Blockaders. You have ere this heard of the raid around Richmond, by Dahlgreen and Killpatrick the former was killed: Several hundred of the raiders were Killed & captured. 97 of the Raiders surrendered to 93 of our men 30 of them (the Captors) were boys - from 12 to 15. A very amusing circumstance connected with the escape of the Yankees from the Libby happened in King & Queen Co, One of the Escaped prisoners passed by a school house in Stephensville. Where some little boys were playing Bandy. (the boys were about the size of Al. Cormine & Bill Taylor) the fugitive passed by the boys dressed in Citizens clothes they suspected that all was not right and they got after him with their Bandy sticks and captured him carried him back to Stephensville and there he was proven to be an Escaped prisoner from the Hotel De Libby. he was sent back, I saw an account of the Exploit of Capt. Fitzhugh and Master Busby of the Ferry on the Eastern Shore. quite Brilliant. Tell Sallie and Emory Smith that their Father is well. I shall demand and expect a long letter from you for the ones I have written and received no reply too I heard of the death of Mrs S. Snead, Mrs. Kellam and several more. Give my love to Mr Coe, Wife and Children. I reckon Danl. has run off I saw an advertisement in the paper the other day from Jos. W. Custis, offering $400- reward for his apprehension - There is no news here - The Yankees still continue to fire on Charleston, But if they knew how little they were damaging the town they would cease, and go some where elsewhat is Geo & John Tyler doing of-? How is R R, R. making out. What did Bro John say to my going home? Write to me to all the news Giving an account of every thing - Every thing how insignificant it may seem to you is of interest to a refugee Any Body that can write an interesting letter I will be glad to hear from - Give my love to Father Mother Jno - Jno B - & Louis not forgetting Frank Major - Frank B. was in Atlanta Ga. the last i heard from him - Good Bye - Every body seems to think that the War will end this Year. I dont The whole Confederate army has reenlisted for the War, Hurrah for those that is our sure indication that we are invincible. Write long & often From You Know Who- Mrs Bayly sends her love to you How Stands Tully Joynes - Tell Wm Moore I have written several times to him but received no answer - I am now waiting for an answer Love to him & family - also love to all good and Loyal people of My Bleeding Country.Washington March 13. [?]64 Hon. J. Holt. Sir Allow me to introduce to Mr Baily member of Congress from Penna Whose democratic war principles are all right. Will you permit him to state his case & if possible aid him, as much depends on the result Thaddeus Stevens [*5666*]Lexington Ky Mar 14 1864 Dear Sir The court of appeals have decided the case of MGoffen against you reversing the judgement of the lower court. The Court of App. say 'At the expiration of three years' means and was intended to mean the day on which the period of three years expired." 'The meaning' they say "is as clear we think as it would be in the case of an ordinary promissory note for the payment of a sum of mony at the expiration of three years from its date" The court fail to discuss what was pressed on them, that the contract contemplated that you had the privilege of making up your mind whither you "desired" to sell at the expiration of the three years and after you had done so then you had time Secured to you to make known your request to Magoffin- The words are "if at the expiration of three years xxx the sd Holt shall desire" &c- then the sd M. xx on request made &c [*5667*]On the other ground that time in equity was not of the essence of the contract, the court say when there is not mutuality in the obligation time is as much of the essence of the contract in equity as in law, and that, as by the construction put in the contract by the court the request should have been made by you on the day the three years expired equity could not relieve against it-- The opinion has evidently been well considered by the court-- And although I am sure they might with as much reason have said, When a testator gives a wife an election in regard to his property at his death, meant at the day of his death and not within a reasonable time after --a case much more like the present than a promissory note, yet I am satisfied they cannot be induced to take it back or modify it. Messrs Buckner & Dudley [from] you will remember I wrote you I had employed them with me when I found the number of counsel employed by Magoffin--enclose their fee of $100--in both Courts as I do also sum of same Amount-- A check on N.Y. for $200 directed to me will discharge them Of course there will be the costs which when they are brought in I will forward to you. I am very Respectfully Your obt Sevt Geo. B. Kinkead Hon J Holt Washington City D.C.My dear Sir Genl. Fremont called last evening to see us, and we invited him to dine with us today, at 6 Oclock--will you wave ceremony and give us the pleasure of your company at 6 Oclock? Yours most truly S.L. Smith 14th March Please answer [*5668*]Washington, March 16. 1864. Dear Sir, I hold an appointment as Temporary Clerk in the War Department and am at present engaged in the Record Room of the Dept. If there is a vacancy in your office and you think me competent, I should be pleased to be transferred. Yours Truly, R. H. Shelton Major A. A. Hosmer Judge Advocate Washington. [*5669*]Brigadier General Joseph J. Bartlett and staff request the pleasure of the Company of Hon Joseph Holt & Family at the Head Quarters of the First division, Fifth Army Corps, Downman's House, near Rappahannock Station, Virginia, on the Evening of Wednesday, March 16th, 1864, at half-past 7 o'clock. R.S.V.P. C. B. Mervine, Capt. & A. A. G. G. A. Batchelder, Capt. & Ord. Off'r. W. R. De Witt, Jr., Surgeon in Chief. Geo. M. Barnard, Jr., Capt. & A.C.M. M. Edgar Richards, Lieut. & A.D.C. J. P. Bankson, Capt. & A.A.I.G. Charles H. Ross, Lieut. & A.D.C. E. J. Marsh, Assist. Surgeon U.S.A. L. C. Bartlett, Lieut. & A.D.C. Mark R. Came, Capt. & C.S. T. Corwin Case, Lieut. & A.D.C. S. R. Hamill, Capt. & A.Q.M. James D. Orne, Capt. & Provost Marshal Passes to the Army will be furnished, and Orderlies will be waiting at the Rail Road Station and Pontoon Bridge, to direct parties to these Head Quarters. {*5670*}Chuckatuck Va March 19th /64 Mrs Hellam My Dear friend. I embrace the opportunity of writing you a few lines this morning to let you know that I have not forgotten you,. We are all well & getting along as well as the times will admit off. I hope this will reach you safely and find you all well. aunt Gibbs has been staying with me ever since you left untill about a fortnight ago. & she went to Richmond to carry her darkies. She wants to go to see her Brother but if she cant go on to see him will come back and stay with me. Dr Yaylor & Dave have been here twice since you lift. Mrs Hellam I want to see you worse than any one living I have so much to tell you. I have had several quarrells about you since you left. Some people hav'nt got you to tell story's on & so they [*5671*]talk about me. I have not received the dress that you sent me but I hope and trust I shall get it soon. I knew nothing about it untill I received Daves letter I assure you I am under many obligations to you,. It is impossible for us to get any thing about here except homespun and hardly that. I am sorry to inform you that my brother Kenneth is dead he was taken prisoner at Gettysburg & died in the hands of the Yankees Billie Harrell is also dead It seems that there is nothing but trouble for me. Mat has gone to stay with her Brother he was in the last stage of consumption I expect he is dead ere this. My Sister Bettie is staying with me at this time. All the family Joins me in love to you. Kiss all the children for me. & give my love to Mr Hellam & also accept a large portion for yourself. I hope Mr Hellams health is improveing. If the war ever ends I am coming to see you. As I have nothing more to write I will bring my short and uninteresting letter to a close by saying I remain your affectionate and true friend until death. S. J. Harrell. [*P.S. Write soon do not forget a friend S. J. H. *] [*Dear Sister _ I shall write a few lines to you although I am suffering with the Rheumatism in my ankle - I have just come to Richmond on my way to my Regt[ment]. I left David in Petersburg he will come over soon. we have all been on furlough, & the time has come for active movement's. Aunt Gibb is at Mr Ford & they send their love to you, Edgar is quite well & sends his love to all . Mr Ranken is very anxious to see you *] [*Col Please put this in another envelope and send it to Mrs Sue Hellam and you will oblige yours very respectfully S. J. HarrellI would like to give you the news but it will not do. David & myself have succeeded in getting horse but it was a hard thing for our means were scarce. My command will remain around Richmond so they say- Mr Warwick is married to one of the first ladies in Petersburg - I was at the wedding she sends a heap of love to you all. I was glad that you got the Rings & I want you find out what [might] Miss G. had to say about hers. The boys join me in love to your family & Neals also- to Mr. B family Mrs. Yatesman & Mrs. S send their best love to you. I have staid about four or five weeks with Mr Parker & all the old Maid & Young Girls called on me- they were ready to address me but it would not do for me to desert Miss G. rite soon Your Bro W C SEaston March 17"/64 My dear Mr Holt I am Sure you will pardon the liberty I again take in asking a favor for my dear brother in Belle Isle. We have a Mr Nutter esiding in Easton who has a nephew (Capt. Nutter) prisoner on Johnson Island Ohio . he is Anxious to make the Exchange with my brother & assured us he Can accomplish it on his side, if we Can on ours - One difficulty I presume will be my brother is only a Sergent, but we hope Even this may be overcome. In the greatest anxiety I write to know what you can do for us personally & what you would advise us to do - we [*5672*]are extremely anxious this should be accomplished & are willing to do anything to have my brother released from the Rebels Capt Nutter has a brother Paymaster in Richmond, through whom, (I presume) they would accomplish this - Sister met a Col. Casada a released prisoner one week since At the Continental on Saturday last, his Mother went to Fortress Monroe to obtain his release Gen. Butler informed her had she come three months ago he could have accomplished the Exchange & would do so immediately; But to the great joy of the Mother, a boat arrived whilst she was waiting & her Son one of the Exchanged. Sister left us on Saturday I will write her the arrangements by this mail. Yours Sincerely Mary S. DrinkhouseCleveland, O. Mar 18'1864 My dear sir, I am now collecting the autographs of ex-cabinet officers and desire to receive yours. If you will send it you will greatly oblige, Yours Respectfully H. P. McIntosh Hon Joseph Holt, Washington D. C. [*5673*]New York March 18 1864 My Dear Sir I write a line to acknowledge the receipt of our passes to St. Augustine--and to thank you very kindly in the name of us all, for the great favor you have done us. Very Respectfully Yours Jno. E Peck _ Hon Joseph Holt. _ Washington [*5674*]Lewistown March 22/64 Hon Simon Cameron Dr Sir I spoke to you yesterday in reference to getting a letter from you to the Presdt. in favor of Major Davidson who was dismissed the service by the action of a Court Martial - I have carefully examined the evidence taken before the court in his case and I certainly wd. hesitate very much before I wd. let a conviction stand, in any of the courts in which I preside, based on such testimony — Some of my friends are anxious to have his case reviewed You stated yesterday that you thought Judge Holt was the proper person to apply to - Would you be so kind as to send me a letter to the [*5675*]Presdt and also one to Judge Holt asking that the case of Major Davidson 4th U.S. infantry might be reviewed carefully and he be restored to his command if it can be done consistently with the good of the [ser] service If you wd do this I wd feel under personal obligation and you wd gratify a number of your warm friends- I wd be obliged if you wd send the letters to me at once as his friends wish to act in the matter this week Yours Truly Saml S. WoodJudge Woods378 = New Number 418 = 5th Av March 22d/64 My dear Mr Holt. May I say Cousin I propose sending Mr Lewin , an Englishman by birth, to England to prove the Pedigree of all the Holts, on this "Continent", this Gentlemans Family Married a Holt an Uncle on one Branch his Grand Mother another. this person passed Three Years of his life, in Searches for his Uncle, [*5676*]Holt, and all the Heirs, in England at an "Expense" of "Five Thousand" dollars". he has the Pedigree of Six "different Branches["] of Holts", writing Heirs in America Chief Justice Sir Johns= Sir Thomas of Aston Hall= Hamiltons & Holts. "Hamilton recorded" Robert Holts Heirs 500 Shares $500000 Edward Holts " London Property Henry Holt London= Devillo Holt's Male is or was named "Robert" by names we trace "familys", this "Robert" came to this Country" to "hunt with dogs" brought wife and children some remained he became disgusted returned home, his Heirs are here, his property is $500.000. I propose employing W B Lewin for two reasons. first he had gone through most of the Labour, seconly he can bring in all the English Heirs. become one Family share and share alike Male and female, of himself, I must speak from personal knowledge. a quiet high toned truthful man. to begin with, he has lived here Twenty years, with his Brother, a Cotton Broker. he is a Batchelor therefore can leave at any moment, travel at much less expense, than any other person we could employ. Mr Devillo Holt of Chicago, President of a Bank, and his Brother, from Buffalo, called upon me, one Evening last Week. I sent for this Mr. Lewin, they had a long interview together, resulting in this that Mr Lewin was to be employed by me, as "Generel in Chief" for the Whole Holt Family have an agreement drawn up to raise $1000. for travelling expenses, at once and to give this Mr Lewin Ten per cent of all Moneys, that may be found and Estates of any sort or kind each individual entitled to those pay into my Hands, with their Signature to "thee agreement $5. if we cannot make up the amount then to be Either portion are to pay $25. rather than have this last struggle fall through? This is dear Mr. Holts proposition. are you willing to join us. do as we do. if so write your family. if they think well of my proposition, make one power of attorney to Mr Lewin "sign and forward to me, with the money enclosed. I want to send out in May if possible, please write what you, will do. "Your signature" will give confidence to the other Heirs. Yours truly Lydia H. Secor House of Reps. March 23. '64 Dear Sir:- Your Bill was reported back to=day from the Senate Military Committee, with only one change, namely : giving your assistants the rank of Major instead of Col. I have no doubt now that it will pass. Very Respectfully &c. Adam G Hill [*5677*]BY THE GOVERNOR OF NEW MEXICO A PROCLAMATION. It is the duty of every christian people to render thanks unto god for having granted signal favors and delivered them from immediate perils and disasters. The territory of New Mexico has been the theatre of cruel Indian Wars, and with but slight intermissions, for one hundred and eighty years. Wars, even when conducted according to the rules recognized by civilised nations, are the most terrible calamities which can be visited upon any people; but those wars are prosecuted with relentless rigor by a savage race and with merciless cruelty towards those of every age, sex and condition, they become doubly apalling. The spectacle of defenseless men, women and children butchered in cold blood, or subjected to a more agonizing torture; of children carried into captivity and reduced to a slavery worse than death; of the fruits of toil and anxiety swept away in a single night; of the despoiling of our people of their numerous flocks and herds, containing thousands on thousands of sheep and cattle- has been one of such frequent occurance, that, in our despair of any hope of relief, we had become filled with apathy and recklessness as to what might come next. In this condition of heart and mind, our people were bowed down in deep dejection. Now, while we were in this condition, it pleased the great Giver of every Blessing to aid our arms and to give us a signal and lasting triumph over our savage foes. Those great scourges of the Territory the Mescalero and Navajo tribes of Indians have been completely subdued and now lie disarmed and incapable of further mischief at the feet of our Government. They have been pursued with an energy and fixedness of purpose which was never faltering and they have been chastised with a vigor which taught them that our people were in earnest and were determined, for once, to let them feel the full weight of a white man's arm. To this pursuit which admitted of no rest; to this chastisement known by them to be merited, they have at length succumbed, and have begged to accept the only terms upon which they could ever hope for peace. These terms have been their total and complete Exodus from their own country to suitable lands which have been reserved for them and where they are to abandon their nomadic and predatory mode of existence and become an agricultural people, following the pursuits of civilised life. Nearly six thousand of these Indians are already upon the Reservation at the Basque Redondo or on the road to that point. The remainder of the Navajo tribe are fast coming in, and within a few days or weeks, at most, not one of that band will be at large in any part of the Territory west of the Rio grande. Our citizens can now breathe freely. Our lives are safe at home and upon the highways. Our property is secure from the desolation that descended as a heritage to our people. Industry and enterprise are now insured against savage spoliation. The energies of the people now remain unembarrassed in the pursuit of all branches of business which may contribute to individual as well as national prosperity. New colonies can now be settled upon the most fertile lands, and those of our people who heretofore have been reduced to one half or one fourth of the soil necessary to their means and desires of cultivation can now employ all their abilities and energies to the full extent of their wishes, and this in security and peace. The prospector for the useful and precious metals can now pursue his vocation through our deepest canons and in our mountain recesses with comparative safety. The untold millions of mineral wealth which we know to exist within our boundaries, and which have lain hidden in the earth will now commence seeing the light of day and give an impetus towards our prospective greatness. In view of these great Blessings which it has pleased Our Heavenly Father to vouchsafe unto us, I have felt it to be my duty to ordain and set apart a day of thanksgiving and of gratitude unto him from whom comes every earthly Blessing; Therefore I, Henry Connelly, Governor of the Territory of New Mexico, do appoint Thursday the 7th day of April in this year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four for that day; and I recommend that Divine service be held in all the churches in the Territory and that all the people may lay aside their usual avocations and make that a day of thanks and praise for our happy deliverance from the evils with which we have so long been afflicted. Done at Santa Fe, this 23d day of March, in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four. Henry Connelly Governor of New Mexico {*5678*}Helm Place March 24, 1864 Hon - J - Holt Sir I never asked a favor of any one willingly — yet I now ask one of you — My young daughter Mrs Sara H. Hays has been in the South nearly three years, she wishes to come home on a visit to her family, and we are all very anxious to see her — will you get a permit and forward it to H. W. Bruce at Richmond for her — if you can do me this kindness please write when it is done that I may have her met at the nearest point in the federal lines — by granting my request, you will confer the greatest favor on an anxious mother I write to you [*5679*]for I feel that my father's daughter has a chance of being heard Yours respectfully Mrs John L. HelmTHE CONFEDERATE DEAD AT FRANKLIN.—— The Franklin Review of the 24th inst says: A large and enthusiastic portion of our fellow-citizens, collected together last Saturday, and organized an association for the purpose of getting the necessary means for disintering and removing the fallen Confederates from the battle field, to the ground given by Col. McGavock. The names of the officers appointed by the meeting will be found in another column. It is not expected that the citizens of Williamson county will furnish all the means for this purpose. But we do insist that it is our solemn and imperative duty to do our share in this noble enterprise. We ought to have gentlemen and ladies in the various districts to solicit and obtain subscriptions. We are frequently asked how much it will take. We have in answer thereto to say, that we do not know exactly. But we think there ought to be enough money raised in the South, not only to remove them, but also to beautifully adorn the Cemetery and rear over them a monumental shaft. It will require several thousand dollars for this purpose, and by proper efforts being made, the money can be easily raised. We trust our cotemporaries who have this enterprise at heart, will give as much publicity to this organization and its objects as possible. We mentioned this subject some weeks ago, but no one has thought enough of it to even notice it.5 barrels fr[?} For sale low by EWIN & PENDLETO[?] Drugs, Perfumeries, Brush FANCY ARTICLES, and everything kept by [?] class Drug Houses, always on hand at the lo[?] cash prices. Purchasers will find it to their [i??rest] to give us a call jan24-3m EWIN & PENDLETON WM. LYON & CO NO. 45 SOUTH MARKET STREET Commission and Forwardi[?] MERCHANTS, KEEP CONSTANTLY ON HAND A GOOD [?] lected Stock of Bar and Sheet Iron, Casti[?] Nails, Axels, Springs, Sheet Copper, Wire, Sho[?] Spades, Axes, Hoes, Coffee Mills, Tubs, Buc[?] Brooms, Cordage, Carriage Tire and Dray [?] Sausage Cutters, Anvils, Vises, Bellows, Sash [?] Weekland March. 24 1864 My dear Sir My daughter my Yalie since she heard of the death of her mother has expressed a wish to come to my house with her little children. I am extremely anxious she could come because of my desire to see them and particularly as I am satisfied that Florida is to be invaded by the united troops She has four children and a white woman for a nurse. I may be asking too much of you but I have no one else to appeal to will you see the President and assertain if he will give her a pass from Florida to Ky. upon her and my pledge of honor of strict observance of propriety on her part My health is not good [*5680*]I feel like my days cunnot be long in this world. Sence the death of Mrs Wickliffe I have felt no interest in this world strong enough that [empacts?] to love it or desire a longer stay. Yours C A WickliffeWashington March 26th 1864 Sir We request a copy of the opinion in the case of Maj. Calvin Taylor of the 25th Iowa vol infantry who was dismissed by judgment of court martial. A copy was furnished us some time ago by order of the Scy. of War, but has been mislaid or lost either in the War Dept or at the Ex. Mansion. Be pleased to address the copy to Mr William Hann Rep. James F. Wilson Jas. Harlan Hon Joseph Holt Judge Advt Genl [*5681*]Office U.S. Military. War Department. 3 f The following Telegram received at Washington 9 A M. Mar 25. 1864. From New London Conn M. Dated, Mar 25. 1864. Hon Joseph Holt, Judge Adv Genl, The order you obtained last June is revoked at War Office. Help me Quickly. Col. Gates 14 pd Answer U.S. Military O.K. Mar 25 1864 Telegraph. [*5682*]Fort Trumbull March 25 1864 My dear Sir What is the name of Heaven have I done that I should be so grievously dealt with ! I have just rec'd an Order to turn over the command of F. Trumbull to my Junior Officer and am not aware of having committed any horrid act that call for such un gracious a visitation. I may given Sec. Stanton offence in misinterpreting his order, mistaking an order to discharge Rejected recruits- who claimed to be discharged - as unfit for any duty "Disability"- I interpreted the order as applying to Regulars- and discharged several but on further consideration of the order [*5683*]discharged no more my self without the order of Gen Dix- So I explained the matter to the Adj Gen'l- as a misunderstanding of the order at the moment when several Men of no use to the service were rejected by the Surgeon & a Board of Officers. Those were asked to be allowed to return home, as "You won't pass me", (said they) "You won't give me pay", clothing" " no blanket, Great Scot " or any thing "I am then no soldier"- and can't" " stay. When you won't have me" "I have no bed" and will perish" "in the Barracks- without laboring "&c"- but as soon as I examined the revokation of the Order again, "I corrected the error next day and so I wrote the Adj Gen'l by way of apology- Can I; for that mistaken understanding of my instructions have merited so serious a visitation of the Secretary's displeasure. I trust he may think better of me- if he has done so- I am an old officer- it is true "The oldest in the Army"- but then Sir I have no infirmity about me- now what ever I labor here day & night with all my heart and soul in discharging my duties with 800 or more new recruits who are wild and undisciplined and do my best for the service and am proud to say that I have been complimented for my good management. I know Sir, that I am an old soldier truly and am to die when God shall appoint the time- but I do not believe the prospect ofbeing, starved to death - with my. innocent. little family - for I cannot live on one third of my present pay &c If I have offended the Head Secretarys of War - His censure of my error - would correct it amply - Would it not? It did so. - at once [in fact] (if that was it) I am not aware of any other matter- that should be charged against me --- Slander" may have gone forth - but what of them - His excellency has a full share of them - they are idle words — I regret to trouble you sir bur my case is one that is grievous - and I trust may move you to exert Your high influence to have me restored to my command by revoking this last order from the War office God speed Your efforts for a Distressed old Soldier Wm Gates Col U S ArmyEaston March 28/64 My dear Mr Holt, We have heard, through a friend, my dear brother had been removed to Americus Georgia I had been very sick I was Still sick Mrs Geyer & I have determined to depart to Fortress Monroe & will probably be in Washington Thursday Aft. If you are not engaged will you be Kind Enough to meet us at Williards? And advise as how to proceed? [*5684*]We will abandon the effort to Exchange with Capt. Nutter I am Sorry to give you So much trouble that the anxiety is beyond quiet endurance In haste Yours truly M. S. DrinkhouseLousiville March 28th 1864 Hon Joseph Holt; The contents of your last letter surprised me no little You inform me that Mr Stanton, after consideration, declined to give me a pass to go South, Yet kindly volunteered to allow my friend a permit to come to the United States, for which offer I certainly desire my thanks, Yet under the circumstances, it would be impossible for him to do so, as he has no means here, and his business is such on the South that it requires his immediate, and constant presence; You can understand, his position from early experience, and it is not so easy for a man, to break assunder every tie and commence life anew, away from property, interest, and [*5685*] principle. I know a man of your nobility of nature would not expect or exact such a course of conduct from any man; I cant but feel that if you would only interest yourself in my behalf that you could obtain a pass for me. It is a matter I know of very little importance to you or Mr. Stanton yet to me it is a matter of vital importance as the happiness or misery of any individual is; I had no idea that I should have any trouble in procuring a pass, as I know they are and have been a great many Ladies who have gone South during the past Winter, without any trouble, by applying only to the Commanding Gen of the Department, whose lines they desired to pass through. My first intention, was to do the same, but after several conversations with my Cousin Gen Lytle of Ohio, he advised me not to do so. He told me to wait until Spring and he would procure a pass for me from the Secretary of War without any trouble. The Secretary being an old friend of his, I believe. But death had deprived me of him as an intercessor, and I fondly hoped, that you would have as much influence and interest in me to induce you to make any effort as I know he would have done for my future welfare and happiness; Mr. Stanton refusing, might you but be more successful, by applying to the President, who is higher in command and has more authority than any one else. I do not wish the pass to be effective until the last week of April, as I wish to reach Richmond about the 5th of May. Hoping I will receive a favorable answer from you very soon; Believe me most Sincerely your friend Josephine R. RowanConfederate States of America NAVY DEPARTMENT, Richmond. March 29th 1864. Acting Masters B. G Burley and John Maxwell [esuary?] Richmond - Va Gentlemen, Submarine telegraphic wire is urgently needed for the public service and learning from your report the practicability of obtaining some from within the enemy's lines, you will proceed at once and endeavor to obtain it. You will exhibit this order confidentially when necessary to obtain assistance from our military authorities and use every exertion to ensure success I am respectfuly yur obt serv S R Mallory Secretary of the Navy [*5686*]Encl. 1.March 29 My Dear Suda I wrote to you by flag of truce I wrote to you to say to my friends in Accomada that there friends were anxious for them to come to this place they will be gladly received My Da got here to see me last night he is well, and say he is ready to divide the last dollar with those he loves as he does his life he is still remaining at P. Banks just as [you] he was before the war. I think the war will be over by the fall dont think we are in a starving condision We have a plenty and can live in Dixy for a long time to come Aunt M Gibb has been staying here for some time she will go down with Pa [*5687*]Binny left this morning he has been here for a week or two he likes his step Mother very well his Pa was married the 25 of February- I second she is a nice lady she was a Miss Harrison 30 years old and from Petersburg- our friends are all well in part of the world and all want to see you all. How does cousin Pa and family get on, I heard from S.R a few days ago I must close and send this to Mr T... he will send it to [him]you in hast yours affectionately CE FordOffice of Orders [?] Detail C. S. Navy Department. Richmond, Va., March 29th 1864. Sir, Please furnish transportation for Act'g Master B.G. Beverly and John Maxwell of C.S.May, from from this City to Fornstall's Station on the York River rail Road and back, with such public property as they may have in charge I am respectfully &c James S Jones Register &c Major Wood Richm'd Va D S Wood Maj Bvt*] [*Pass free on York River RR [*5688*]Bardstown March 30th 1864 Hon. J. Holt My dear sir If I again write to ask a favor at your hands, may I hope, that you will not feel that, I presume too much on your friendship I know that those calls upon your time and patience, are very frequent, and believe me it is with great reluctance I trouble you. As you may perhaps remember, my son Alfred, in the first months of the war, entered as a private. Col Bakers 1st California regt in four or five month he received a Lt's commission and was fortunate enough to secure the warm approbation of his commd'g officer, but was not so fortunate as to secure the good will of his [*5689*]successor, our young men had not then learned, that the first Duty of a soldier is unquestioning obedience - Al quarelled with his Col and left the regt-. Coming to Ky he did not long remain idle, but entered the army of the Cumberland serving for some months as a volunteer in the 2nd Ky Cav. It was during this time that being sent home to bring the dead body of a comrade to his friends, he was captured by Genl John Morgan refused a parole [in a] hurried away without being permitted to see his family and was retained in close custody until they reached Winchester Ohio, where he made his escape, and returned to Ky, received from Gov Bramlette the commission of 1st Lt 4th Ky Cav- in October last- Now the trouble is that he cannot be mustered into the service, until the necessary papers from Washington are received; the Adjt Genl of this state, Boyle, has written to this Department more than once, without effect; in the mean time, my son has been serving many months in one capacity or another without any pay, which indeed would be a small matter if we were rich people and could afford it whereas we are very poor people, and can't afford it at all. To that what I have to request of you my dear sir, is that you would bring the case to the notice of the Secratary so that the necessary papers may be forwarded with further delay- Permit me one word more, my son is one among the very, very few Kentucky youths who remain unshaken by the black wave of discontent which is just now rushng over our State- I can only hope that you may not find this letter intolerably tiresome and egotistical - but so I am asking a kindness at your hands on behalf of my son. I thought it right that you should know his anticedantsWhen I last saw you , you thrilled all our hearts with high, fearless thoughts of the futture of our country - when the answer to this reaches me . I hope to find some words of cheer, for, dwelling almost in the very valey and shadow of Death as we do, we need them much. As ever most truly Mary B Hynes Mr. J. W. Forney respectfully requests the honor of your company at his Rooms, 553 New Jersey Avenue, (Capitol Hill,) Wednesday Evening, March 30, at 8 o'clock, to meet Mr. Edwin Forrest. [*5690*]HEAD QUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF HENRICO, Richmond, Va. [*March 30,*] 1864. [*B G Binley*], a citizen of [*Great Britain*] having sworn, in good faith, not to reveal, either directly or indirectly, any information that may benefit the enemy, is hereby permitted to pass beyond the limits of the Confederate States, by route herein designated: [*by any available route*] This passport is given, subject in all cases to the approval, delays and restrictions of military commanders through whose lines the persons or person may pass. Hair: [*light*] Eyes: [*Blue*] Age: [*21*] Complexion: [*florid*] Height: [*5, 9,*] By command of the Secretary of War [*special order of*] [*Sec of War*] Jno. H Winder Bvt Received [*April 6th 1864*] Jno H Winder Bvt [*5691*][*Encl. 3.*] [*Passport*]Dear Friend I write to inform you that I know B.G. Burley & he is all right - & any information you can give him will be doing me a favor. M C Taylor Richmond March 30 1864 [*5692*]ReferenceChemung Co. Jail Elmira N. Y. Wednesday March 30th 1864 To His Honor Joseph Holt Judge Advocate General Respected Sir It was partly through you that an extension of my execution was granted by President Lincoln. My friends are fully aware that I committed no willful murder, and the Commanding Officer at this Post wishes me to write to Washington for a still further extension until you can investigate all the evidence in my case and give me a just as well as a deserving sentence. Colonel Eastman (1st U. S. Inf.) feels assured of my innocence and wishes time for you to examine the testimony. He wishes me to solicit an order from the President delaying my execution until he sees fit to order it. You are the person to assist me in procuring what I petition for. Time is precious as my life is limited by man to April twentieth eighteen hundred and sixty four Very respectfully Lorenzo Stewart [*5693*]Please address Mrs Gates-next" I may be in N York—for a few days. New London March 31st 1864. Most noble friend Your note of the 26th Ins. was joyfully received by me and my whole little company for it. announced most favorable process made by your kind efforts in my behalf. at the War Office- It announced a very extraordinary proceeding thereat for the order relieving me of my command by as "by order of the Secretary of War' "J. L Townsend Ass. Adj Gen.- when [?] the Hon. Secretary avows to you that he had no knowledge of" the fact of my being relieved- Here is a strange exposition of the Matter By whom then was it done?- I do not like to connect my friend Col Townsend of an error "of Great magnitude [*5694*] "It was, done the Secretary thinks, in the routine of business". Is that the way they finish up an old Officers case"- The Order does not bear out such an explanation for it was a Special Order. I will not rail at them however for so doing if the Sec. Gen will only man it up. the breach he has thus made by doing as he told Gen Farnsworth he would put me on duty again (if possible, at once" besides the assurances given to you Sir, by the Secretary. The difficulty will be if he does not restore me to duty here, Where can he do so?- is a perplexing question to me. I know of no position to ask for while I am here. I might be put on Gen Co Martial duty on a Board composed of our officers for examining Infirm officers- retiring Board until a firm position could be selected. You were so kind as to say you would follow up the matter then so favorable Heaven prosper You in so kind a desire to save me and my little flock from actual distress From all I can gather I do not see that the Hon. Secretary knows of any substantive cause of complaint against me. Something is intimated that I have [??ed] in regard to orders. I can only suppose so but my offence is made and not serious or hurtful to the service censure would be ascribed for it when I assured the Adj Gen'l that I have simply misinterpretated the order which I had just received but had discontinued to follow. The order before received about worthless men who had offered to join the Army Discretion being given me to send off such men at once. I thought that the order applied only to the men who had been fully enlisted. I explained it so. If that be it. It was no very important affair. However I have written nothing since- as you advised- but put my trust in you and Heaven. I feel mortified and see that I should be consigned to the shade (with my better folks) on so miserable a pretense. I am impatient of a better order but great men like elephants are not to be hurried. My present wish is to be on the ground in Washington in order to show Mr. Stanton the oldest soldier in the Army and to name some other post to the Adj Gen'l that I would like and He approves. If nothing comes up very soon I shall exceed my impatience and appear and thank you with all my heart and soul for your generous assistance. Wm GatesNew York March 31st1864 Hon Joseph Holt Dear Sir. To be frank, I am addressing you for the purpose of getting your autograph and a few lines if you would do me the favor. A short note from one whom we all respect so much as Joseph Holt of Kentucky, would be a great prize to possess, and a very great addition to my small collection of the autographs of eminent men — Any subject you may see fit to write about, will be interesting to me. Remaining in hopes of an answer, I am, with great respect. Yours &c F. O Angell 129 West St. [*5695*]New York April 2 1864 My valued friend I saw Mr Brandegee my N London friend) and he told me that I was the cause of major mischeif by sending to the War Depart. charges against Cap. Bromly Prov. Marshall in Norwich- accounts carried by news papers in which were scandalous Articles written by him ag st us- now Sir I am glad of that" since my official conduct with the War Dept is all right- Hence the visitation is on the "wrong man"- He Cap. Bromly should have been displaced- My God Sir are news papers Slanders to be received as truth full as Holy writ? I charged Cap. B- with false & malicious [*5696*]a base of me and the Officers & men at F. Trumbull and is that the way I am to be treated? and it said that there was sufficient cause for my removal. Behold the Sec't of War had no voice in the removal My God who then was the Executive Officer? Not Mr. Stanton- not Col. Townsend strange proceedings Why Colonel I can bring all my officers to my support and disprove the whole of that scurrellous attack upon me if I have a chance I sent the papers to prove that Cap. Bromly was a [?] fellow when he spoke of me and my command and L' Hatch reported to the Adj. Gen'l that he was ordered to make inquiry into the complaint of Cap Bromly which found to be "entirely groundless"- I wish I could be allowed to stand before Mr Stanton I could illuminate his mind to my entire acquittal I am sure- If I know more clearly where in I was in error I would defend my reputation more favorably but I am unadvised about it and cannot do so. God be with you my dear Sir- and prevail against the evil doers. I shall not be "bowed down" till you cannot save us from this strange mean doings My wife is sure you will and is quite calm Yours sincerely Wm GatesNew York April 4'1864. My dear friend I do not know that I can now write to you any thing that will benefit an unfortunate cause- but it is inherent in all men, to manifest a desire to defend themselves in case of an attack- Your letter of the 31st Ins has prompted me however to attempt, at least, to satisfy you thus. I can not: so great a transgression as it has been entertained by some of the wise men- about the War Office- ( not the Hon'e Sec.") for he seems to indicate a noble mind in the matter- and they a spirit of mischief not worthy of our admiration today the least now Sir you say that the matters themselves, did not seem to consist of much importance- but such as to annoy the authorities of the Depart. (Pray who were they (not my friends Col. Townsend surely)- as evidence of "an indisposition to obey orders unhessitatingy. Here then are my grave errors.- which I deny- Neglect and disobedience of orders were never stamped upon my brain- Oh. Colonel how readily could I explain all such (minor) matters if I had a chance to do so- but that is not permitted for action came before the pleading. I do not know the cases referred to by somebody- I was told that other matters were the cause of my removal [*5697*]which laid in not sending off the troops sooner but that was not my fault - When Detained, by the action of the State of Connecticut - for the men were told that they should not be sent away- before they were paid their State Bounty- and there being a difficulty in the way- as to the location of the recruits- I could not get them paid- for many weeks- at last I warned the authorities of my intention to send the men off, at this when, they became paid- and away I sent them but I now learn that my "carelessness about Orders"-has "produced the Mischief" alas What a grave offense that appears when not explained. Sir I have been Forty one Years a Com'g Officer and if I have erred in some instances in all that time it could not be thought strange- No Sir- No intentional disobedience nor wilful must be attributed to me, if any thing My God Sir- How heavily does this malediction fall upon a notoriously willing soldier. It seems that those small "complaints or annoyances" (these seem more than one I find to my surprise) have finally been made known to Mr Stanton and further action suspected but promises are still good that I shall be put on other duty. Here is a melancholy prospect before me that I fear you cannot control- Heaven bless your efforts in all things and I heartily offer you my blessings for what you have already done. All I propose now Sir, is that you be hereby empowered to contradict any assault upon my Military conduct like that just mentioned for I have no refractory spirit about me. I was never in better health in my life than now, and my faculties are as sound as a bell. I am ready for any duty else where and I shall trust in the good intentions of the Hon'e Secretary and the promises of the Col (Townsend) altho' the Gentlemen have already shown a lack of tenderness in wounding the Pride and feelings of the oldest soldier in the Army Heaven's choicest blessings follow you every where Your friend Wm Gates If God heard the prayers of many many friends as I see stated in the News You would become (with your consent) Sec "of War"-Jersey City April 4, 1864 Sir a fair will be held in this city during the present year, in aid of our wounded soldiers. It is my desire to have an album to dispose of comprised of the autographs of the distinguished men of the present time. Will you allow me yours to place among them. Very Respectfully Yours W. Muirheid Box H. Jersey City N.J. [*6598*]New London April 8th 1864 My dear Sir, I beg leave to say to you in regard to my present position in the Army that if no order has been proposed placing me at any other station or assigning me to special duty I would be glad if the Com'd of Fort Lafayette New York Harbor Col Burk who is there in Com'd wishes to be relieved and ordered to Ft. Trumbull where his family now is, residing with his son in Law (Cap Glennen) Col Burk is confined at Fort Lafayette by reason of a Habeas Corpus" opened by the Civil Authorities in New York and so that he will be pleased [*5699*]with an order removing him - to the station - He is an Artillery Officer . and well known as a very judicious one Respectfully Your Ob-Sev Wm Gates Col USA. Hon Joseph Holt Washington D.C.*[Please send a Telegram- if you have any immediate Hopes- or not]* New London April 7' 1864 My dear Sir, I feel greatly obliged to you for your valued note of the 31st March last. You have labored strenuously in our behalf- and are inclined to believe that you have put my cause in proper train for a favorable result. I regret giving you so much troubles in helping me out of the deplorable position I now find myself- but in God's providence he designed that one man in his necessities should help another out of his trouble if he can- but the great difficulty generally, is to find the right man for this task but it has pleased Heaven that we should be favored with you- to save us from our enemies "and those that Hate us"- Your efforts before the Hon'e Secretary are highly estimated by us. You appeared to state that the causes of my removal were "made known to you in detail"- I should be glad to know what those "annoying" matters that were not of much importance in themselves were and whom were annoyed by them", as it was not the Hon'e Secretary who was thus annoyed"- but "some subordinate" whom I should say has been quite easily disturbed". What those annoyances" were which evinced an unwillingness "to obey orders. I can only surmise and fire upon [*NB Fort Hamilton (Narrows) is an Artillery Station- Com'd by an Infantry Colonel. My Junior- retired Officer So is Fort Lafayette an Arty Station com'd by an officer who wishes another Station*] one. - in relation to the discharge of Miriraber recruits who had not been duly enlisted - the certificates of some Surgeon being wanted - before he came to the Fort from a recruiting station - which I discharged at once". - and then sent his certificates of rejection to the Adj Gen.' Office - when I should have kept the man. a number of days without clothing - blankets Great Coat - or bedding - and until orders were received from Washington - as I had done this - often and commended for so doing - I ventured again in two or three instances - where I examined my orders a new and perceived that I had not strictly regarded the order. - believing it to apply to men who had been duly passed the examination - before his re=examination - for which simple error - I made an explanation and corrected. it (the error) - "a matter of not much importance" "in itself" truly - I do not recollect any other - "annoyance" If I had not offended the Secretary of War" - then my "offense" should not have been visited as it has has been - by my inferior - My order of removal, was stated to have been "By Grace after Sec of war" - when He had no knowledge of giving the order, Here is a grave offense - of much greater importance. than my offending - I could charge somebody with making a Second mistake" - to speak politely by a bold stretch of authority - once that the order was "nul & void" - not having been done by Grace of the Sec of War - But, I cannot now make an issue - between myself and the one who signed the Order, for you in that case might be involved - having Privately (- only) written me the facts - That you have understood the point of accusations - is clear - but I cannot conceive any one of them. Cant that just referred to - now Sir - if they have all been more known to Mr Stanton - in the first instance - We (you think) would not have allowed the Grace to go forth - as that seemed to be the true state of his Mind. on examining the Matters it strikes me that he should have reached it as unauthorized - for it was not, until he found out. that it had really gone forth - I could make a disturbance about this if I chose but as I hope for better things - from your kind labor I shall remain quiet - until further Orders "from you" - The Secretary's manner, was kind - you state - which showed that he was not disposed to be unjust. - but I fear - that his manifold matters will prevent his - attending to my grievous removal as his fair words have intimated - As I suffer - distress every hour delay I must be pardoned for my impatience - in looking for relief - I came at rest here - if not restored to my post, - and therefore am hopeful - and perhaps a little worried not knowing - where to direct my steps - I cannot name any post or spec duty - to the Ad. Gen'l - which presents an opening - He only can do that - but if I could be posted elsewhere or detailed on the Bassa for retiring officers - at Wilmington Dela' I would forgivemy persecutors - I cannot ask forgiveness of any one for I have not been made acquainted with Him whom I have "annoyed" - as my real offence Taking this whole matter into grave review I must say that I have never known any one instance of so unwarranted a character and what is an abomination in the sight of the Lord- the wrong which they now see is protested in over twenty four hours. Col Townsend has been always courteous and I am averse to believe him- careless of pardoning towards me. If Gen Canby has taken part in this matter (and him I never saw) I am disposed to believe he has obtruded his hostile voice in it because I have heard he has an unworthy opinion of me from having presented my claim for stopped pay- urgently- two years ago- I owe him nothing but a rebuke. I was on my way to Washington 1st April but was checked by Gen'l Dix who advised me to beware "against orders". Not to spoil a good thing "in the hands of so noble a friend as Judge Holt so I must fight at long range. My God Sir- That I should be so dealt with. When I know not my offence and am as sound in health and vigor of Body & Mind as I ever was- is indeed deplorable. I shall still hope on and pray to God that may see the day when I can serve you as my mind and Heart shall direct Yours sincerely WM Gates Col US V My good wife is not so well To day as I would wish- rather nervous perhapsWashington April 8 1864 Hon Joseph Holt Judge Advocate Dear Sir, I hope it may consist with your engagements and with your views of propriety to look at the papers of Capt James H. McLaughlin who has been dismissed by Genl Butler If you find it to be a worthy case for reinstatement I hope you will favor it, Your obt svt E. D. Morgan [*5701*]H St. Ap'l 8, 1864. Dear Sir: The bearer Mr. Deeble, asks a line to you in the hope of your giving him some employment. I have known him many years as one of our most respectable and worthy citizens. He was 33 years in the National Intelligence establishment with Mr. Gales. Yours very truly, Horatio King Hon Joseph Holt, Judge Advocate General. [*5702*]Philadelphia April. 8th. 1864 To Col: Joseph Holt Judge Advocate General: Will Col: Holt contribute his signature to a collection of autographs now in process of making, to be sent to the Sanitary Fair of Philadelphia, and sold for the benefit of the same. Respectfully E Hunn Jun. 813 Arch St. Philadelphia [*5703*]The American Telegraph Company. PRINTING AND MORSE LINES. DIRECT TO ALL STATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES AND BRITISH PROVINCES. OFFICES—432 Pennsylvania Av., U. S. CAPITOL, and Willard's, the Metropolitan and National Hotels, Washington, D. C Terms and Conditions on which this and all Messages received by this Company. In order to guard against and correct as much as possible some of the errors arising from atmospheric and other causes appertaining to telegraphy, every important message should be REPEATED, by being sent back from the station at which it is to be received to the station from which it is originally sent. Half the usual price will be charged for repeating the message, and while this Company in good faith will endeavor to send messages correctly and promptly, it will not be responsible for errors or delays in the transmission or delivery, nor for the non-delivery of REPEATED MESSAGES, beyond TWO HUNDRED times the sum paid for sending the message, unless a special agreement for insurance be made in writing, and the amount of risk specified on this agreement, and paid for at the time of sending the message. Nor will the Company be responsible for any error or delay in the transmission or delivery, or for the non-delivery, of ANY UNREPEATED MESSAGE, beyond the amount paid for sending the same, unless in like manner specially insured, and amount of risk stated hereon, and paid for at the time No liability is assumed for errors in cipher or obscure messages; nor is any liability assumed by this Company for any error or neglect by any other Company over whose lines this message may be sent to reach its destination, and this Company is hereby made the agent of the sender of this message to forward it over the lines extending beyond those of this company. No agent or employee is allowed to vary these terms, or make any other verbal agreement, nor any promise as to the time of performance, and no one but a Superintendent is authorized to make a special agreement for insurance. These terms apply through the whole course of this message on all lines by which it may be transmitted. CAMBRIDGE LIVINGSTON, Sec'y E. S. SANFORD, Pres't, 145 BROADWAY, N. Y. 5 ct Dated NY Apls 8 1864. Rec'd, Washington,..............1864,.......o'clock,.......min. M. To Hon. Jos Holt The next quarterly meeting of the Sanitary commt will be held in Washn. May 3d by Order of the Board Benj Collins Asst Secy [*5704*] D. HLexington Ky April 9. 1864 Dear Sir I send enclosed the receipts of Messrs Buckner & Dudly & myself for our fees in the suit with Magoffin — The certificate you refer to was not placed in my hands. When I procure the amount of the costs of the suit I will forward them to you, for payment. I am very Truly Your obt St Geo B Kinkead Honl J. Holt Washington City D. C. [*5705*]Louisville Ky. April 9 '64 Hon. Joseph Holt. Enclosed I send to your care a petition signed by some of our best & most prominent Union men (unconditional) and I ask the favour of you to present it to Hon. E. M. Stanton Secry of War The facts contained in said petition are true, and it would be a source of much gratification to the Union men of this region of country, if Capt. Williams could be released from prison on bond, so as to enable him to prepare his case. Wishing you all possible happiness & prosperity- -I am Yr Friend Geo.W. Hite (over) [*5706*]I can if necessary, procure the names of five hundred good & true Union men to the petition, but I thought that the names of such men as Joshua & James Speed & Dr Bill & Mr Needham, the two latter who are officers of the U.S. Government would be sufficient. Very Respy - H.Hon. Joseph Holt.Danville Kentucky April 10th 1864 Hon Jos Holt Washington DC Dear Sir I wish to address you upon a matter of business which may not be within the limits of your jurisdiction . but I presume you can give me the proper information upon a matter of much importance to my wife and sf - During the summer of 62 and subsequent to the battle of Chaplin Hills the division of Genl Baird encamped upon the farm of my wife & remained until March 63 about five or six months and during that time destroyed property [*5707*]to the amt of about six thousand dollars (Say fencing of post & rail from plank & stone. One barn and cow house rye wheat oats & corn cattle hogs & timbers. The information I wish to obtain is whether under proper certificates of the above facts cannot damages be recovered or received from the local Government. At that time and for six months previous my wife was & still is in very feeble health and we were in St. Louis she under the medical treatment of Dr Pope & could not be here at present or protest or attempt to secure the proper vouchers or certificates from the Quarter Master and only a few were given to the Agent for our oats & hay at a very small price. and they so imperfectly made out that I was forced to dispose of them at 40 per cent discount. Since that time it (the farm) has been made a regular encampment & the house given is the location & fine spring and good water. Surely no just Government like this of ours should take from one of (even) its humblest citizens without properly and fuly reimbursing the same. In consequence of the great dislocation of fencing no crop of any consequence has been made or saved for two years and we find it difficult to liquidate debts- replace fencing &c and pay taxes. I have the a/c made out and placed in the hands of a Lawyer of tis place but I believe he proposes waiting a regular course or process through the Agent appointed by Gov Bramlette to reside in Washington for the purpose of adjusting such claims. I hope you will excuse the liberty I have takenin writing you this lengthy letter but as tis quite a serious matter with us I wished if possible to obtain the proper advice and information. Miss Lizzie Haynes is quite well Very Respectfully Your Obt Svt Jno. T. FacklerApril 10th Dear Sir I cannot deny myself the pleasure of writing to thank you from my heart, for the kind interest you have manifested in endeavoring to secure the appointment for my husband; when I received your first note, I made myself perfectly easy about the matter, not supposing it possible you would be refused any favor of the sort you might choose to ask, and even after your note of the 6th received last night, I cannot convince myself [to] of the contrary — had we been aware of the necessity, it would have been perfectly easy to procure testimonials Bardstown being almost a suburb of Louisville. DH is welll known there [*5708 -*]and in the constant habit of professional intercourse with a [?] physician of the plan.— whatever may be the result, permit me to say my gratitude for, and appreciation of your great kindness will remain the same. Sincerely your friend Mary Blythe HynesLegation of the U. S. of America. Constantinople April 10th 1864. Honorable William H. Seward Secretary of State U. S. of America. Sir, I beg leave to make known to you the nature of a Claim which I have had placed before Congress for services rendered by me at this place in connection with the Department. Though you may be unable to render me any relief, I, nevertheless, respectfully request that the present explanations be permitted to remain recorded in its files, for reference, in case of need, at any future time. As the Department is aware I have repeatedly, since my connection with this Legation, acted in the capacity of Charge d'Affairs ad interim. These periods extend as far back as 1838 and four of them are the following: From April 16. 1838 to July 19. 1839. " March 6. 1843. " January 15. 1844. " August 5. 1845. " July 1. 1846. " October 20. 1949. " February 23. 1850— making together 3 years 4 months and 13 days. I, at that time, hold the Office of Dragoman to the Legation [*5709*]with a salary of $2.500 per annum, and that of [the] Charge d'Affaires, then, was $4500 a year. At various times, and through the kindness of various friends, I sent to Congress Petitions for the allowance granted for similar services, and it was only in the Session of 1850-51 that an Act was passed in my favor allowing me $5120, whilst the entire sum claimed by me for the 4 periods aforestated was $6738.84. I cannot imagine that either of their periods were rejected by Congress, and rather believe that the Petition, for one of them, was not before it, when my claims were taken up and acted upon. The period thus omitted was probably that from March 6. 1843 to January 15. 1844. The amount still due to me in consequence of this omission is $1618.84. As the usual wording of the Act — "in full payment up to this date—" 1851, offers a serious difficulty to the rectification of the error, I am compelled to leave the circumstances of the omission to the justice of Congress. Since the latter of these four periods, I have had again the honor to act in the same capacity twice, for which I have not received any remuneration whatever, viz From July 30. 1852 to July 5. 1853. " December 19. 1853 " January 1. 1854. making together 12 months and 19 days. I was at the time still holding the Office of Dragoman, with a salary of $2.500 and that of a Charge d'Affaires was $4.500 per annum, so that the amount due to me, as the difference between the two salaries is $2105.54. In - In addition to the preceding, I believe that I am entitled to a remuneration for other services rendered by me. I have already represented these to the Department, and though it admitted the services, it expressed its inability to give me any relief, so that I must seek for it in Congress. These are the following: In the beginning of the year 1857, whilst acting as Secretary of Legation and Dragoman, with a salary of $3.000 a year, I also discharged the duties of Consul General to February 19. 1857, when the President was pleased to appoint me to the latter office. For this short period of 1 month and 18 days, the Department in the settlement of my accounts, allowed me the half pay of Consul General, in addition to that of Secretary of Legation and Dragoman, as a [separated] superaded office. When I was appointed Consul General February 19. 1857, the President stated to Mrs. Brown, then at Washington, who as well as the late (deceased) first Controller of the Treasury informed me of the same,— that it was his intention I should continue to perform the duties of Dragoman to the Legation, in addition to those of Consul General, and, to receive for them, the sum of $1000 per annum allowed for the Office. In consequence of this intimation, as well as on the request of the Minister Resident, the Honorable C. Spence, I continued, as previously, to perform under his Instructions, all of the duties of Dragoman as indeed those of Secretary of Legation,— to the 31 of October 1858, when I was appointed by the President, "Secretary of Legation and Dragoman", and was then informed by the Department that James McDowell Esqre. had been appointed to the Office of Consul General. In themean time (between February 19 1857 and October 30 1858) the U.S. Bankers in London honored my Drafts for the sum of $1000 a year; and I informed the Department of my having drawn for it, but as the Act of Congress of August 1856, on the subject of superadded offices, was interpreted adversely to me, in the settlement of my accounts, I was debited with the amount received. I would respectfully refer the Department to the correspondence of Mr. Spence for the fact of my performance of these duties, under his instructions; and it is so well aware of the necessity of a Dragoman to the Legation both from the peculiarity of the intercourse of the Legation with the ottoman Government, and the exigencies of the IV Article of the Treaty relative to the trial of Suits in its Tribunals, that I need not more than allude to the embarrassed position in which he would have been placed by my refusal. I therefore claim to be allowed for these services $1000 a year as Dragoman, or the half salary of Secretary of Legation and Dragoman at $3000. per annum as a superadded Office, for the period of 26 months and 8 days. On my appointment as Secretary of Legation and Dragoman to the Legation November 1, 1858, I was directed by the Department to draw for the salary on the U.S. Bankers in London, and to cease to draw on the Treasury for that of Consul general. Mr. McDowell, my successor did not reach this place until the 18th March 1859, so that I continued to perform, in addition to my own, all of the duties of Consul general, for four months and 17 days. I made all the required returns to the Treasury Department of the fees received during that period; and in the same manner, as well as precisely similar circumstances as those when I was allowed the half pay of Consul General whilst I was Secretary of Legation and Dragoman from January 1st to February 19th 1857, I believe I am fully entitled to the half of the salary of Consul General from Nov 1st. 1858 to March 18. 1859-as a superadded Office The phraseology of the 9th Section of the Act of Congress of Aug 18. 1856. on the subject of superadded Offices is somewhat vague yet showing that whenever a Consul General performs Diplomatic services, or a Diplomatic Agent performs Consular duties, Congress did not design to impose these superadded duties, without establishing for him a proper remuneration- whilst that of the 11th Section of the same Act appears to me very clear and distinct, and in point of fact I may add that I have been allowed the salary of Charge'd'Affaires ad interim, when I [had] held the Office of Consul General from December 12. 1857 to April 18.1858. The preceding explanation will serve to prevent any misapprehension of the nature of the Claims for compensation which I make; and I must respectfully beg the indulgence of the Department for having addressed it on a subject of so personal a character. I have the honor to be With great respect Your very Obedient Servant (signed) John P. BrownJohn P. Brown Cinstantinople to the Dep. of State Ap. 10.1864 Copy.*[copy]* Washington D.C. 11th April 1864. Hon M. Blair P.M. General Dear Sir: I have a friend in your Dep't- Mr William Kinnean- a clerk in the Contract Bureau. He desires promotion; he now only gets 1200$ which is barely enough to live upon; if you have no place where you could put him at a higher salary he would be better satisfied if you could give him the desk recently made vacant by Mr. Van Buskirk, who has been promoted as I understand to a Clerkship of 1600$- Mr Kinnean would like a change even if you do not raise his salary. If you could accommodate my friend, it would be very gratifying to him as well as to Your Obt Svt [*5709 b*] (signed) B.J. Clay*[Private]* 93 Franklin St New York 12 April 1864 Dear Sir. If you will pardon my addressing you unofficially I would very much like to have your opinion on the following points: How far do the provisions of the Fraud Act extend to persons in Govt employ? Does its language make only officers, privates, and contractors in the MIlitary and Naval service amenable to trial by Court [*5710*]Martial; or can clerks in the Department, Navy Agents, Storekeepers, their clerks, and the workmen and clerks in the Navy Yards be arrested and punished by virtue of its provisions? I have the material in hand to prove the guilty connivance in large frauds, of Navy Dept clerks, Navy Agents, Storekeepers, and persons of each of the classes above enumerated and yet I fear that they will nearly all escape punishment, through the timidity of short sightedness of those who fear to incur grave responsibilities in the face of the uncertainties or obscurities of the law. I am so anxious to punish these scoundrels, and make examples of them for the good of the country, that I would strain a point if necessary. But all do not feel as I do, nor are all willing to take the same risks of popularity and preferment. I ask you, therefore, as one on whom erudition and judgementI have entire confidence to decide points which have been the subject of controversy between me and officials more than once. A strange rumor reaches me that Fish has made a successful defense and that he was at a ball in Balto a few evenings ago. If he has proved his innocence then shall I never believe in the force of good testimony again, for if there ever was under the sun a case of unblushing villainy made out his was. Yours respy H.S. Olcott [*Col J Holt Judge, Adv Genl*]New London April 12th/64 My dear Mr Holt: Many times Had I taken up my pen to write you, and as many, laid it down again. At present, my indisposition prevents me from wielding a cheerful stroke, and has done for some time past. I am confined to my room with a most distressing cough, the remains of an attack of congestion on my lungs. I hope it will soon pass away and be numbered among the things that were, for under our present suspense, the addition [*5711*] [*as formerly I could not. May I hear from you soon and will you tell me about yourself and how you pass your evenings. Adieu. Yours truly H. L. G.of ten days thraldom in one's room and more than half of it in my couch does not improve one's views of the pleasures of life, although it may of its uses - Mine are necessarily sombre just now, and I fear I must impose a restriction on my thoughts or my feelings for I fear I shall impose on your good nature by too oft allusion to our ills - but then you have ever been such a comforter in time of woe, that like a child to its parent I return to my tried friend - Previous to this unexpected and really severe attack which has deprived me of my voice in speaking for many days, I was under engagement to be in New York with Mrs Gilman for a short visit, and i hoped then you could find a spare moment to "drop in" at a convenient hour and chat awhile, but you see of how little avail are plans or projects for me. I am becoming almost stoical, expecting only troubles and their train of disagreeables - yet I am still determined if I can recover this week, to start for New York immediately after , and then map out a future for myself and children - [for] if the Government wont support us through the Col, I must employ my own faculties to that end. His vexations are numerous and petty, growing out of the recent suspensionand such as I hope and believe he must triumph over in the end, but, oh, how long to wait for justice which slowly comes and for a position unsatisfactory at best + few know better than Col[?] I can scarcely write I am so weary of thinking and coughing, too. I once in a while she a few tears in some great dilemma, and the relief is instantaneous but this time, tears wont come, or relief either, and I am therefore oppressed of facts which are mysteries The Col has many friends here and throughout the State bears a high reputation - it is therefore the more surprising that a man of such inferior moralstanding (or in truth any standing) in this part of the country as the perpetrator of these fabricated shortcomings of the Col should be helped at the War Office. Against abundance of the testimony to the contrary, which could be furnished here. Every thing went on in perfect order at the Fort, and with the towns people, save only, one or two low whiskey dealers who grumbled that they were forbidden to sell their spirits to soldiers. You know the Col is the last man in the world to disobey the Orders of the Sec. if he understood them [Orders]- but I suppose it must be some spy upon his actions who has so misrepresented [*5713*]him- Can you form any idea of what course the Sec intends to pursue in regards to it? Gen Busteed wrote him a most impressive letter I should judge, from what I hear and I have been hoping that with your own kind words, and his good impulses that the Sec of War might achieve a victory over his own foible of infallibility and revoke the unjust word of command which sends so much bitterness into two families- Mrs Pierpont wrote me a most hearty letter a few days ago, mentioning her belief that if I were in Washington she could see more of you. I shall say that as a flattering [mention?] to my soul, but disbelieved it nonetheless. Do you enjoy yourself as much as ever with the anticipation of Spring birds and flowers? I can seem to imagine you in pursuit of frogs and bouquets for fair friends even at this early season and wish I were one of the included member. Those you gave me last spring are withered, but preserved and in remembrance sweet as ever. I must thankyou for that beautiful speech which I will return to you shortly. Indeed your heart overflowed when you uttered those peerless sentiments- worthy of your noble soul and my glorious sex. God bless you for them. There are very few women in this world worthy to inspire such lofty outpourings of spirit from you I think. I have been writing in the midst of perpetual noise and conversation and am sure I shall wish I had waited until quiet reigned, to write you but it is too late to regret and I am sure you will forgive me for [writing you] saving too much of myself since if I were as much afraid of you [* H I C*] Dear Judge, Can you give me an opportunity to see you this morning, and as soon as you receive this note if possible, according to your convenience? I have something important to ask, and cannot well come to you — Yours very truly H. L. G — April 13th 394 - 20th St. [*5713*]Executive Mansion, Washington, April 13th, 1864. Dear Sir. The President will endeavor to take up the Court Martial cases at nine o'clock to morrow morning, if you will please be here. Your obt. Servt Jno. G. Nicolay Priv. Sec. Col. J. Holt Judge Advocate General. [*5714*]Boonton New Jersey April 13th 1864 Gen Joseph Holt My Dear Sir As I am making a collection of autographs of distinguished Americans, it would please me very much to be favored with yours. I am Yours most Respectfully George Anthony [*5715*]Boston April 15th '64 Hon Joseph Holt Judge Advocate General Washington Dear Sir A friend of mine & of my friends, William L. Dansley of Worcester Massachusetts is I learn now in your department as Clerk I know him very well & beg leave to commend him to your consideration. He is a gentleman of excellent education & talents and of the highest character in all the relations of life. An excellent and thorough lawyer he would [*5716*]be found most useful in the investigation and preperation of any matters of law upon which you may desire such assistance. There a few positions on the part the service for which he would not be found qualified and in any Service the utmost confidence may be [?] in his integrity and fidelity With high respect Very truly your Obt. St. Benj A ThomasHon. Joseph Holt My dear Sir Mrs Robinson (widow of the Orientalist, Dr Edward Robinson) has just been in my study. She asked me to address a line to you in regard to her only son who is A.A.G. in the 3rd Division of the 11th corps of our army at Chattanooga — Capt. Edward Robinson. She is anxious to have him nearer to her in her old [*5717*]age, and hopes that a legal position in a military court may be given him. His knowledge of law is thorough & his career as a young lawyer in New York has been very creditable. I believe his qualifications for a judgeship are of a high order. He was a pupil of mine 12 years ago, when he showed remarkable grasp & power of mind. He has been long enough in the military service to have a valuable military experience. Wm Curtis Noyes and Charles Kirkland, two of the most eminent lawyers of New York will probably write you in regard to the legal attainments of Capt. Robinson. My esteem for the family causes me to desire that Mrs Robinson's hopes may be fulfilled & yet in bringing this before your attention I do not wish to add one care to your burdenIf it should be in your way to regard this matter, it would be a source of great satisfaction to a large circle of friends. Remembering gratefully your kindness & courtesy I am Yours very truly Howard Crosby [51] 12 Rutgers Place, New York April 15. 1864Head Quarters 126th Regt N.Y.V. April 16th 1864 Dear General It may be gratifying to you to know that one you have taken so much trouble to befriend has at last gained the confidence of his superior and commanding officers. My Col (James. M. Bull) has resigned and I have received the following recommendation from my superiors who wer eye witnesses of my conduct at the battle of Mortons Ford (copy) Second Army Corps April 16th 1864 To His Excelency Gov of New York (over) [*5718*]We the undersigned General Officers have witnessed the conduct of Wm.H.Baird Jr Col 126th N.Y.V. on the battle field, and know him to be a brave and meritorious officer and we would cherefully recommend him for the position of Colonel of the 126th Regt N.Y. vols Alex S. Webb signed} Brig Genl Vols Comd 2d Div 2d a.c. Alex Hays Brig Genl vols Comd 2d Brig 3d Div 2d a.c. J.T. Ewen Brig Genl vols Cond 2d Brig 3d Div 2d a.c. S.S. Carroll U.S.A. Col Comd 1st Brig 2d Div 2d a.c. The original of this copy I have forwarded to his Excelency Gov N.Y. If it is not to much trouble show this to major Ganes, and give him my best respects, and until you hear from me after the next battle believe me to be Very Respectfully Your Obliged and Obedt Servt Wm H.. Baird Lt. Col Comdg 126th N.Y.V. J. Holt Judge Adv Genl U.S.A. Washington D.C. P.S. By all means give my kindest regards to Mr Wright, and excuse the liberty I take in addressing you W.H.B.U.S. Sanitary Commission New York April 18th 1864 Sir The next quarterly meeting of the Commission will be held at the office of the Commission No 244 F. Street Washington D.C. on Tuesday May 3rd at 10 ½ oclock A.M. By order of the Board Very respectfully Your obt. Servt Benj. Collins asst. Secty by E.R.S. Hon Joseph Holt Washington [*5719*]Washington, April 19, 1864 Dear Sir, This will introduce to you Major S. von Forstner, 3d N.J. Cavalry, whose case, as I understand, will probably come before you for examination. as his regiment will probably be ordered to the field very shortly, he is very anxious to have it taken up as early as possible if compatible with the rules of your office. Trusting that you will excuse my liberty, I remain With great respect yr obdt sevt L.F. Pourtales Hon. J. Holt, [*5720*] Judge Advocate GeneralLouisville April 21. 1864 Honble Joseph Holt Washington City Dear Sir, Permit me to introduce the bearer, Mr. T. C. Coleman, who desires to lay before you a matter on which the U. S. is equally, with himself, interested. May I ask you to give him such advice as will enable him to obtain his property. When Genl. Buell first entered Nashville, with the army, he found this metal, now owned by Mr. C., had been last in possession of the rebel authorities and was by them being converted into shot & shell. Genl Buell ordered it seized & sold for the benefit of the U. S. which was done and Mr. C. bought and paid for it. The man who was a competitor at the sale, but who refused to take the oath required, is now endeavoring to obtain possession of this metal, and, from events that have transpired, seems to have such assistance in Nashville and will enable him to carry his point unless the Govt will render Mr. C. such assistance as will secure the ends of justice. I am Very respectfully Your obt Srt W. B. Belknap [*5721*]Head-Quarters Provost Marshal, 5th Congressional Dist., Ky. Louisville, Ky., April 21st 1864 Hon. J. Holt, Judge Advocate General Dear Mr. Holt, The bearer, Thomas Coleman Esq., is President of the Louisville Rolling Mill Company. He wishes to see yourself & Secretary Stanton in relation to some Iron Material in Nashville. Mr. Coleman is one of the most honest men in Kentucky. His integrity is always reliable in all matters. As a matter of course, he is a loyal man & has been of much service to our Cause in Kentucky. I pray you, as a personal favor, to advise with him and give him such aid as may be in your power. I am, very truly yours T. S. Bell. [*5722*]Louisville, Ky., 186 WOMACK, GEO. W. Provost Marshal 5th Dist. of Kentucky.Major and Mrs. Morris S. Miller request the pleasure of Judge Holt's company, on Friday Evening, the 22d of April at 8 1/2 o'clock. 167 F. St. My 50th Birthday M. S. M. [*5723*]House of Representatives Washington April 23d [A.S?] 1864 Colonel J Holt Judge Advocate General- Dear Sir- In reply to yours of the 21st in response to the case of Lt. Col W S Stewart I have the honor to state that it is the intention to submit further testimonials in this case- I have written to L. Col Stewart to send them forward at once Respectfully &c J F Farnsworth [*5724*]Phild April 24 64 My Dear Mr. Holt As our worthy President has indicated in his Baltimore speech, that there was some trouble in determining a plan for the punishing of the Murderers at Fort Pillow & elsewhere., I thought I would take the liberty of making a suggestion, as there is sometimes wisdom in the Multitude of Council. Let the names & position & homes of all the rebel officers in command be ascertained as far as possible, in this, as well as in other Murder, of the Col. Troops, & by a Proclamation of the Government, have their names & all the circumstances of the Murder given, with the well known orders of the rebel government for the murderers, accompanied by an act of authority condemning them to death when ever or wherever they should be captured without any form of trial. It would be unjust to punish the innocent for the guilty & by this [*5725*]act of the President. The World would have undoubted proof of all the outrageous circumstances of all these cases, & the fear of the consequences would deter others from a like act. The rebel government would then be compelled to deny or retract the orders, & be called upon by the opinion of all mankind, so do something towards punishing the Murderers, & let this be done at once, as procrastination has been the sad bane of this whole war With great Respect J T Sharples I owe you many thanks for having me sent Patent Office Report & I regretted greatly, giving you the trouble that I had tried, in vain by other meansExecutive Mansion, Washington, April 25, 1864. My dear Sir: The President thinks it will be impossible for him to take up the Court Martial cases today. Tomorrow morning at nine, however, he will endeavor to do so. Your obt Servt Jno. G. Nicolay Priv. Sec. Col. J. Holt Judge Advocate General. [*5726*]New York, April 25th 1864 Hon: Jos Holt Mr dear Sir, I arrived here night before last, having left Brownsville, Texas, on the 8th, and New Orleans on the 17th inst. In a few days I shall leave here for Washington, where I hope to find you in good health. Every thing connected with the cause of the Union in Texas has been wretchedly managed. As soon as I ascertained that Genl. Banks had determined to go up Red river, that moment I knew nothing could be done, or was intended to be done, as respect, Texas. An advance into the State from that side is attended with almost insuperable difficulties. Finding, then, that I could do no good by remaining longer at Brownsville, I determined to return to Washington, with the hope that I might be instrumental in getting some action taken by the Government, which would result in benefit to the cause of my State and Country. First and foremost among them was, that Texas, of itself, should be constituted a Military Department, and some man put in charge of it, who was not a professed politician, seeking for political preferment. Without any [*5727*]wish or intention to assail or injure Genl. Banks, it is my determination to urge the propriety of this measure upon the proper authorities. In doing so, I will base it entirely upon the true ground — that of its utility — its absolute necessity, in a military point of view. As at present constituted, the Department of the Gulf embraces a line of seaboard extending, I believe, from about Pensacola, in Florida, to the mouth of the Rio Grande, a distance of over 1200 miles. The territory comprized within it, is longer than any other three Departments now existing, with much fewer means or facilities of communication than any of them. For all practical purposes, (in so far as the State of Texas is concerned) the Commanding Genl. of that Department might just as well have his headquarters in this City, as in New Orleans. If the Government intends or expects to make any serious demonstration at all against Texas, I think it can be clearly shown that what I suggest in this respect, is absolutely essential to to success. The day after I reached New Orleans, the news was received there of Genl. Banks disasters on Red river. I say disasters, for though the papers there, as well as some here, speak of the battles as victories, you may rest assured they were the very reverse. What I assert about this, is predicated upon the statement of officers & others, who were present on the occasion, and who arrived in New Orleans before I left. I have a letter of introduction from Genl. Herron to Genl. Grant, and one from him to the Sec'y of War. I hope to see them both, and to have an opportunity of talking with them, as well as yourself, on the subject of making Texas a separate Military Department. If it's necessity should be as apparent to your mind, as it is to my own, I trust you will aid me in the effort I wish to make for its accomplishment. The most anxious wish of my heart is, to be able to do something for the cause of my country, in the effort now made for her ruin, and in doing this I would be more especially gratified if its immediate result would be to help my Union friends in Texas. To them I am bound by every tie that can bind one man to another, and I feel it to be my highest duty to represent their claims, and urge the adoption of such measures as their rights and interests require. God knows, I have no selfish or interested motives of my own in this matter. But I will say no more now — When I see you, and you have time and patience to talk with me, I will be glad to give you the facts and information I am possessed of touching the matter herein referred to. Very truly & respectfully yr. friend & obt. servt. T. H. DuvalLouisville 25 April 1864 Hon J. Holt Dear Sir We have at length started a Union Paper. The Constitutional Union Press The money has been furnished by a few of us here without a dollar from abroad- It is not in size such as we would have desired- and as yet, without a responsible editor - The editorials are [a] furnished from day to day by a few gentlemen- This is a beginning- and I am much mistaken if the enterprize does not succeed and in a short time command a large patronage with a man of talents as Editor- My object in writing to you is this- In a conversation with Mr Stanton he said that when we started our paper, that he would give us the job work in his department here- which we are now prepared to do- and order the officers under him to advertize in the paper The Government business in the comissary and quarter masters department is the largest business we have- If the advertizements were made in our paper it would at [*5728*]once largely increase the subscription list, and add to our receipts- The Journal now does the advertizing- I write you because I fear a letter addressed to Mr Stanton may never reach him. Very Truly Your friend J.F. SpeedWashington Apl 26 1864 Hon Joseph Holt DrSir being absent from my store this morning when you called, will you be so kind to inform me, if I can send you any articles in my line of business Your Obt Servt Wm. H. Campbell No 383. Penn Av.H.Reps- April 27, 1864 Col Holt Dear Sir In the committee of conference on the Bill for establishing a Bureau of military Justice- it was unanimously agreed that the Senate recede from all its amendments- I have introduced the Guerilla Bill- & the Mil Com has authorized me to report it for passage Very Truly Yours J.A. Garfield [*5730*]*[h]* Trenton House- Trenton NJ April 28th 1864 Col. Joseph Holt Judge Advocate General Colonel- Capt. M.A. Downing was summarily dismissed for absence without leave in [Genl] Special Orders from the War Dept Apl 15th. By Sp. Orders. War Dept, Apl 20th said dismissal was revoked. He is now being tried by court-martial for said abuses and for offences committed on the 14th April. The court respectfully asks your [*5731*]opinion on the following question[s]. [Can] Is the plea of the order of dismissal good in bar of trial for absence without leave? A doubt has arisen in the minds of some members of the court whether such plea is not equivalent to that of "autrefois convict" Please telegraph your answer to the above question, and if convenient send opinion in full by mail- I have the honor to remain, Colonel, very respectfully your obt servt Geo. S. Hastings Maj & Judge Advt G.C.M.Maj Hastings? Judge AdvocateBaltimore April 28th. 1864. Hon Joseph Holt Dear Sir This will be delivered to you by Mr George H Pistel of this city, a yound man of sterling integrity, whom I have known from boyhood. He visits Washington hoping to get a situation as a clerk. If in your power to render him any assistance in that way I should be much gratified. Your friend D. H. Hooper [*5732*]Head Quarters, Department of the East, New York City 29 April 1864 Col J Holt DearSir: I have the pleasure of introducing to you my brother-in-law, Maj. Bolles, one of my A.D.C.'s in regard to whom I have heretofore written to you. He goes to Washington to procure papers in regard to Genl. Spinola & [*5733*]Hawley D. Clapp, both of whom should be tried, I am, Dear Sir Yours Sincerely John A. DixNew York Ap'l 29th '64 Hon: Jos Holt Dear Sir, I am waiting here to see my Texas friend, S M Swenson Esq, who is or was lately in Washington. Should he still be there, I have supposed it more than probable that you would know his whereabouts — If not, I think Riggs & Co will know. Should it not trouble you too much, I would be glad you would get this note to him. In case you hear nothing of him, please enclose it to his direction, and have it dropped in the Post office at Washington. Very truly T. H. Duval [*5734*]Bolivar County, Missi. Apl. 30th/64 Mr Joseph H Holt, I have one claim on you, that of old acquaintance, though that is slight and I would appeal to a stronger - sympathy and human kindness. My Brother, Slaughter Greene Cooke has been a prisoner at Johnson's Island since last Sept. I have borne it like a philosopher, though we have seldom heard from him, and I could have endured to the end of the war, but I hear now that he has been sent to Fort Delaware for exchange or parole and that Lincoln has recently made a speech in which he says that he intends to retaliate on those prisoners for the killing of some negroes at Fort Pillow. I can scarcely believe that Lincoln will so far arouse southern vengeance. We hold many prisoners, he will not sacrifice them for the negro, will he? Your influence doubtless, is great, will you not use it in having my Brother paroled and sent south? I shall feel under lasting obligations, and you will have the happiness of having done a good deed, - indeed I cannot bear my suspense and anxiety on his account He is our darling and pet - a braver, nobler, truer boy never breathed. His is one of the few strong ties I have to life, there are but four of us and no Father or Mother. You knew my Father, Judge W B Cooke, so also did Robert [*5735*]J Walker, I would write to him too if I knew to what point to direct. I will not believe you all are heartless until I have proved it. Please say this much to Mr Walker if he is in Washington city. My younger sister and I have remained at our home on the Missi. river during the war: - we have been threatened with having our house burned (because cotton could not be found on the plantation) told to retire behind the swords of our soldiers for protection, and that he and thousands were for exterminating us We have been shot at and shelled by the gunboats - the Yankees have been in our yard often, I have never insulted one nor tried to have them captured but my Jackville blood boils at the mere thought of this danger as applied my precious Brother, and if he is shot I devote myself to revenge, and the arm of many warm friend will be strengthened in the fight. - Pardon me if I say too much. If you could enter into my feelings I am sure you would --- This is his address, Lieut. Naughton Greene Cooke, 28th Reg. Missi. Vols. He occupied Block M at J's island I hope you will excuse my ignorance in the direction of my letter. I know you have an important office under the government, but in my present trouble I cant remember what it is. Very Respectfully Eliza, Jackville, CookeFort Delaware May 1st 1864 Col Joseph Holt Judge advocate Genl USA Washington DC Colonel, I have been here since the 22nd March and hoped long ago to be sent off on exchange. But we cannot find out even whether or not there has been an exchange, except for the sick and wounded, agreed upon. I learn that several from this prison have been specially exchanged by the influence of their friends and I have determined to apply to you- who have quite as much influence as any of them- to have it so arranged that I can leave here when the sick and wounded-now ready- leave this prison. It is now ten months that I have been a prisoner and you will place me & my family & friends under lasting & great obligations if you will exert your influence in my behalf. A man by the name of Duncan was sent from here a few days ago on special exchange. I thank you very much for letting Cousin Thomas know I was a prisoner. Did you receive a letter I wrote to you in Feb'y containing some poetry of mine? Hoping to hear & hear very favorably from you very soon. Very respy yr obdt servt John S Holt Sergt Co "H" 1st Regt Missi 2d Arty [*5736*]Union Floor Cloth Works, Office At Hasting, Plimpton & Co's, Cor. Vanderbilt Ave. & Bergen St. No. 51 Chambers Street, Edward Harvey. New-York. Brooklyn, May 2 1864 Dear Friend Mrs Lapsley desires me to write you a few lines as an apology for her not replying to your last kind letter, our little Josephine from undue Exposure was suddenly taken with inflamation of the lungs her acute suffering has called forth all the watchfulness & anxiety of a mother for a week past & now that the little sufferer begins to be herself again, mother is prostrated and confined to her bed with a severe attack of Cold & Fever- She is however mending to day & I hope will soon recover her wonted strenght Mr. Riveire is now staying with [*5737*]us & unites with us in thanking you for your kind intercession on his behalf- From his discription of his experience in the rebel army there is no danger of his desiring to return to it and he gives it as his settled conviction ever since the battle of Gettysburgh that the rebellion was a failure beyond hope & would recoil with crushing weight upon its instigators & aiders as the people there realize the real facts as they must soon or late- Aglae will write you herself as soon as she is able, to thank you for your kindness Your obliged Friend Jno LapsleyFort Delaware May 4" 64 My dear Sir I avail myself of the privilege, which a personal acquaintance with yourself, some years since in Louisville, gives, to address you upon a subject of considerable importance to myself. The intimacy which formerly existed between my brother Calvin and yourself furnishes me an additional pretext for performing this application. Quite a number of US officers have recently been sent through from Richmond on parole with the view of effecting the exchange of an equal number of confederate officers. I most respectfully solicit your influence in obtaining for me the same privilege at the hands of the US Govt. If you have any friend in prison at Richmond, I have no [doubt] hesitation in promising that I shall be able to effect his release, if not his exchange, at all events, upon parole. [*5738*]Hoping you will appreciate the motive which prompts this request, I remain Most Respy &c R.C. Morgan Col P.A.C.S.New York May 5/64 Hon Joseph Holt My Dear Sir It would be useful public service to engage the sympathies of the people in behalf of the suffering patriots of East Tennessee, and secure assistance in season for their relief. In Rhode Island it would be in my power to do something if I was in possession of facts, such as I heard in a speech from Col Taylor I ask therefore of you [*5739*]a line to Col Taylor, if you have his address which would induce him to give me the facts alluded to With best wishes and apearances of a lively interest in your career, Yours Very Truly S. S. Bucklin 5th Avenue Hotel New York May 7th My dear Friend Many thanks for your prompt reply to my letter- asking of you so many favors & also of which you grant without seeming annoyed This makes me doubley grateful- I am sorry I should have mistaken the Presidents politeness for sincerity- However it is of no consequence since you are so kind as to tell me I will make friends and meet with a kindly reception even abroad- [*5740*] My mothers name is Melville- that of my child Lillie- my own is Mary H. I hope you will not be put to unusual trouble about these passports (for France) as I hear the applications are so numerous that many have been obliged to go without them & suffer detention abroad- I look forward to great enjoyment & hope I shall not be disappointed- We are pained to hear of Mrs Holts continued ill health- Would she not be greatly benefited by a sea voyage!- I did not receive the letter you alluded to or I should have acknowledged your kindness- My Mother joins me in kind remembrance to you & Mrs Holt- Allow me to again Thank you for your kindness and believe me your attached and grateful friend Mary H. ConradConstantinople May 9. 1864 Dear I scarcely know how to explain or apologize for the liberty which I am taking at the present moment. I am inclosing you copy of a letter which I wrote some time since to Mr. Seward about a matter entirely of a personal nature, for the purpose of asking whether you can do anything for me in the premises. I feel that I am pressing on your precious time for an object in the manner effecting the public good to which I well know, you give your whole heart & head, with the most devoted [*5741*]Loyalty & Patriotism. Personal pressing interests, some times, render man importunate, against their will- & such is the case at the present time. I have repeatedly petitioned Congress for the usual allowance partial to Chargé d'Affairs and wit:, his as repeatedly been disappointed. I believe my petitions have been passed in the House, or the Senate, & his [??lsa],- has never received the [Jews?] confide peace, which gives the laborer his hire! Years pass by, & I may soon see my Clarion power requited, as an uttermost one. At the instance of a relative, I give the Claim for service as Ch. d'Aff in the case of a Mr C. Sames, unknown to me personally, I believe, he has neglected to renew it this Session. As for the Claim for the superadded [terms?], could not receive some things by a Decision of the Attorney Genl? For my terms as "Acting [C???l]", from July 1 1856 to Dec. 31 1857. I was granted an allowance in 1861 on a similar decision by Judge Black. The inclosure "tells its own Tale", & I need not abuse more of your time than by asking, as fitfully & humbly, whether you can aid me in the matter? I Hope find Johnson of [Bupus?], will be promoted, or allowed an increase of salary.He is a very officious & much respected Officer. Pardon my presumption, & accept assurances of [my] highest respect, from Dear Sir; Your very ob. Serv. John P. Brown Hon. J. Hot. &c &c &c Enclose, please view some photographs.9th May 1864 My Dear Father, I have received one of yours dated 12th March /64 some weeks since but have had no opportunity of writing Since— being at out of the city when it reached me— I wrote you however about one month ago I presume you have received the letter ere this— I sincerely trust you will all preserve your health in future as you seem to have been doing for some time past I am again out of the City on a little Side affair of my own getting up- You Shall from me about it by and bye— Often I feel sorry that I am not at home to assist you in your new improvements but, the times may soon come when I shall really be of assistance to you— Tell Bob Muir & other old friends of mine that I would write them if opportunities offered but that at present doing so is almost impossible for me—My Respects to them as yet the Dare's Cargo for me will be [?] [*5742-3-4*]On my return to Town I shall write to Mr. Hobson I also Mr. Ewing -- I if I can find out where they are I will call on them personally - I still hold my position - & as far as I can learn am giving satisfaction by the manner in which at least I try to do my duty - Being this leaves my hand I will a postscript possibly of considerably later date - As for public events I trust in a short time they will tell their own story of past & to come better than any quasi- prophet could do ----------- Your Affectionate Son, B. Y. Burley Lexington Ky May 10. 1864 Dear Sir Enclosed I send you the amount of the costs in the suit of Magoffin- The execution was placed in the hands of Mr Magoffins Attorney who handed it to me under my assurance that it would be paid without further delay- The Clerks bills you will perceive and receipts, If you will send me the amt of the execution I will procure the Attorneys receipt & send it to you You have already paid your Cost to Genl Combs as he informs me Honl J. Holt I am very Truly Washington City Yr obt St D.C. Geo B Kinkead [*5745*]HEAD-QUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY, MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI Nashville, Tenn, May 11th 1864 Hon E M Stanton Secry of War Sir Hearing that Lieut H.C. Blackman of the 8th Kansas Infy is an applicant for appointment as a judge advocate with the rank of Major I cordially unite with his many friends in earnestly commending him to your favor. His high attainments as a lawyer and long experience as judge advocate to important Courts Martial and Mil. Commissions prepare him admirably for the position he desires. This is the specialty for which he is peculiarly fitted and all who know him will bear testimony that the appointment he desires will if granted place "the right man in the right place". Very Respectfully Yr Most Obt Svt Wm Sooy Smith Brig Gen Chief of Cav Mil Div of the MissBrig. Genl. W.S. Smith Chf of Cav. Mil Div. of Miss Nashville May 11th 1864 Requests the appointment of Lt. H.C. Blackman as Judge Advocate with rank of Major.[?] Rep: May 11/64 Hon J. Holt Judge advocate &c Dear Sir: A little in advance of the passage of the bill to establish a Bureau of Military Justice, I have left at the War Dept, in charge of Col Hardee, some recommendations of Lieut. Geo: C. Tichenor, for a long time acting Judge Advocate on Gen'l Dodge's staff in the South West, for the appointment of Judge Advocate under this Bill. I desire to call your personal attention to these papers, & other military testimonials [*5746*]now on their way here and to assure you that Tichenor is unusually well fitted for the place. A Kentuckian by birth & education, he commenced his legal practice in Iowa, early took the side of the Govt in this war, recd a commission in one of our Regiments, after having been politically active on the same side, and has been on the staff almost ever since. He is a gentleman in manners, well informed, & will in my judgement make an excellent officer. Very respy yr obt svt John a. Kasson M.C. IowaBolivar, Missi. May 13th 1864 Judge J.H. Holt I regret that I wrote so hasty a letter to you a few days since, I had heard that Lincoln had threatened to retaliate on the Johnson's Island prisoners and I was so exasperated and miserable about my brother that I could not control my self. I have since learned that his speech was misrepresented to me. I trust in our Father in Heaven that a war of retaliation will not be commenced, for O where would it end? The confederates are already so enraged that our negroes have been armed against us, those whom we have raised, nursed in sickness and been kind to all our lives. I am sorry for them, they are innocent and do not merit all the suffering that has been brought upon them by Lincoln. But my point is, can you, will you have my brother paroled and sent home? I wish to have him with me until he is exchanged. I know that some of our prisoners are being paroled, but I can't bear that it is general and I fear that he may not be one of the exceptional few. May I hope that you will attend to it? I knew your first wife well- if you remember I spent my vacations at Dr Harrison's and I scarcely think she would have been so devoted to you if you were not a good as well as a great man; then [*5747*]if you are surprised that I have troubled you, you you must appreciate it as a compliment. I need scarcely request that my communication be private. Very Respectfully E. J. CookeOffice Provost Marshal Nashvile May 15th 1864 To Hon. Edwin M Stanton Secretary of War: I have the honor to recommend to your favorable notice, Lieut H.C. Blackman, 8th Kansas Vols. who for the past year has been acting as Judge Advocate of the Military Commission in session at this Post. Intimate official relations with Lieut Blackman during the greater portion of this time, enable me to speak of his ability, faithfulness, and integrity, in the position which he has filled with distinguished success He possesses a thorough legal and Military Education, and has had the benefits of an extensive practice in the civil and Military Courts. The able manner in which, as Prosecutor he has conducted the many important and anomalous cases which have come [*5748*]before the commission, has[ve] won for him an enviable reputation. At the instance of his friends who desire his meritorious advancement, he has been induced to seek for himself the position of Judge Advocate with the rank of Major. Believing that the interests of the service would be enhanced by such an appointment, and promotion bestowed upon an able and efficient officer. I am very respectfully Your Obedient Servant John W Horner Lieut Col 18th Mich Vols and Provost MarshalLt. Col John W. Horner 18th Mich. Infty Prov. Marshall Nashville Tenn May 15, 1864 Recommends that Lt. H.C. Blackman be appointed Judge Advocate with rank of Major. Head-Quarters, 2nd Separate Brigade, 8th Army Corps, Defences of Baltimore Fort McHenry Md., May 16 1864 My dear Sir I was surprised and disappointed to hear of the tabling of the bill for the increase of your Dept some days ago- I would esteem it a great favor if you will let me know the causes that prevented its' passage, and the prospect or hope that may be entertained of its being brought up again The vote I understand was but two against it- I have friends in the Senate who I will at once interest in its passage, if there is no reasonable objection to it- with great respect & regard your obt svt W W Morris Bt Brig genl W Va Judge Holt Washington D.C. [*5749*]State of Tennessee, Executive Department. Nashville, Tenn., May 18th 1864 Hon E. M. Stanton Secretary of War, Sir, Lieutenant H. C. Blackman 8th Kansas Infantry Volunteers, is an applicant for the position of Judge Advocate in the Army with the rank of Major. Lieutenant Blackman has been on duty at Nashville as Judge advocate of the Military commission for the last year, and has discharged the arduous duties of that position to the satisfaction of all- and has gained for himself the confidence of all officers and citizens, with whom he has been associated. His experience as a Judge Advocate with the fact of his being a lawyer by profession, qualifies him well for the position he seeks. I cordially recommend his appointment. Very Respectfully Your Ob't Ser't Andrew Johnson Mil. Gov'r {*5750*}Hon. Andrew Johnson Mil Gov. of Tenn Nashville, Tenn May 18th 1864 Recommending the appointment of Lt H.C. Blackman of 8th K's Vol Infty as Judge Advocate with the rank of Major.Head-Quarters Provost Marshal, 5th Congressional Dist. Ky. Louisville Ky May 20th 1864 Hon. J. Holt Judge Advocate General: My dear friend: I find myself indebted to you for the opportunity of reading the unanswerable argument of Mr. Bingham in answer to the defense of Surgeon-General Hammond. Never since the remarkable scene with the unfortunate Sancho Panza has there been such a blanket tossing. Sancho Panza's recollections of that scene were very vivid & often recurred, but I do not think Surgeon-General Hammond's blanket affair will appear in his memory as recollections; it is "anchored fast" in the chambers of his mind. The present status of Dr. Hammond will not disappoint nor chagrin the Army Surgeons. Some of the very best of them that I have ever known were very indignant both at his appointment and the manner of it. I am perfectly satisfied that both Murray, the Medical Purveyor at Philadelphia, & Dr. Perin, the Med. Director of the Army of the Cumberland were immensely the superiors of Hammond in ability to engineer the Surgeon General's Department, and the sun will swerve from its orbit as soon as either could be made to swerved from integrity to law. I am [*5751*]deeply your debtor for the early opportunity I have enjoyed for seeing Surgeon General Hammond turned [away] right side out- the wrong side has been before the country for some time. As ever, I am very truly, Yours T.S. Bell [*Louisville,Ky., .................................................186 WOMACK, GEO. W. Provost Marshal 5th Dist. of Kentucky.*]Head-Quarters United States Forces Nashville, Tenn., May 21st 1864 Lt H. C. Blackman 8th Kansas Vol. having applied to me for a recommendation on which to base an application for the appointment of a Judge Advocate. I take pleasure in stating, that this officer has acted as Judge Advocate of Mil Commissions, and Gen'l Court Martial at this post continually for more than eight months, and that during that time he has not only discharged his duties well, but to my entire satisfaction proving himself to be an officer of intelligence and particularly qualified for the position he aspires to RS Granger Brig Genl [*5752*]Brig. Genl R.S. Granger Nashville Tenn May 21. 1864 Recommends Lt. H.C. Blackman 8th K's Vol Infty as a suitable person to be appointed Judge Advocate&cNashville, Tennessee May 23 1864 Hon Edwin M. Stanton Secretary of War I respectfully ask to be appointed Judge advocate in the Army with the rank of Major I am forty-two (42) years old- and a lawyer by profession I am a native of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania I was admitted to the Bar in 1846. And was for some years Prosecuting Attorney of Licking county Ohio. I discharged the duties of U. S. District Attorney of Nebraska- while Esterbrook and Bowen were the the District Attorneys- I was relieved of that duty by Robert A. Howard. I entered the army on the 10th of February, 1862, at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and remained with my Company until the 20th of October, 1862- participating in the battle of Perryville- when I was placed on the Brigade staff on which duty I remained until the 28th of April 1863, and took part in the battle of Stone River- though my Regiment- 8th Kansas Infantry- was on duty at [*5753*]Nashville. In May 1863, being unfit for field duty and permanently disabled, I was ordered on duty at this place as Judge Advocate of a Military commission under Brig Genl R. S. Granger Commanding post. In December, 1863, I was placed on the same duty by order of Major General Thomas, and am still on that duty. I have the honor to refer: I To letter of officers of my Regiment, October 1863. II Letter of Military commission, January 1864 III Letter of Brig General W. S. Suratt Chf of Cavalry Military Division of the Mississippi IV Letter of Brig Genl R. S. Granger V Letter of Andrew Johnson military Governor of Tennessee VI Letter of Lt. Col Jno. W. Heiner, 18th Michigan Infantry, who has known me during the whole time of my duty here. then Pro Marshal at this Post. As to my standing as a Lawyer and man, I refer to Hon S F. Cay, M. C. Ohio, Hon Jno F O'Neill, M. C. Ohio, Hon Jno F. Kenny, M C UtahHon. Hiram Bennet, M. C. Colorado- Hon Saml G. Daily, M.C. Nebraska I have never been off duty one day since I entered the service, nor had Leave of absence- though my Regiment Veteranized I was kept here as the accompanying papers show. I am, Sir, Very Respectfully Your obt Sevt H.C. Blackman Lt. 8th Kansas Volunteers House of Rep. Washington May 30/64 I have known Mr Blackman many years, and know him to be an able lawyer and a most excellent man J.F Kinney I have known Mr Blackman long and well and do most fully and heartily concur in the above H P Bennet Del. Col. Ser.Blackman, H.C, Lt. 8th Kansas Volunteers Asks to be appointed Judge Advocate with rank of Major. --- Refers to enclosed letters of Gov. Andrew Johnson Brig. Genl R.S. Granger Brig. Genl. W.S. Smith officers of Mil, Commission at Nashville. Lt col. John W. Horner Prov Marshall and others Blackman, H.C, Lt. 8th Kansas Volunteers Asks to be appointed Judge Advocate with rank of Major. --- Refers to enclosed letters of Hon. Andrew Johnson, Mil. Gov. of Tenn. Brig. Genl R.S. Granger " " W.S. Smith Officers of Military Commission at Nashville Lt Col. Jno. W. Horner, Prov Marshall and others. Application endorsed by the Honorable J.F. Kinney and H.P. BennetLouisville May 24 1864 Hon Jos Holt Dr Sir I have the money to take up my note that will fall due on the first of July, and if you are wiling to take the money and stop the interest, let me know amediately and I will send it to you if not send your note when due I want to know if you will let me take up the other note at any time I may raise the amount. You will very much oblige me by letting me know amediately I am very Respl Richard Isaacs — [*5756*]Judge Advocate General's Office, May 24th, 1864. To the President: In the case of Fountain Brown, a citizen of Arkansas, referred to this office by order of your excellency May 23rd, 1864, the following report is respectfully submitted. This is in application for the pardon of a man convicted by a military commission of selling into slavery, and running beyond the Union lines, colored persons who had been made free by the President's proclamation of emancipation. The facts proved are briefly these. The prisoner, who is a preacher and Presiding Elder of the Methodist Church in the State of Arkansas, resided at or near Flat Bayou, and, at the date of the President's [*5757*]2. proclamation, held as slaves two families of negroes, numbering about ten persons, old and young, of both sexes. These families consisted of, 1st, Lucy and her husband John, two children that she had by him, and two that she had by another person, — supposed to be one McAfee, a white man; and, 2d, Delia, with her husband Horton and two children, one by him and the other by an unknown father. After the occupation of the district including Flat Bayou, by the Union forces, the prisoner informed these people, or at least the men, that they were free, and, if they wished, could leave — thus recognizing the proclamation and renouncing his claim to their services. They did not then leave him. In the course of last year, the white man, McAfee, who had been cohabitatin with the woman Lucy, who was a light mulatto, frequently besought the prisoner to assist him in getting her and her children away with him to Texas. This arrangement the prisoner claims to have declined to enter into, on the ground that it was contrary to existing law. McAfee then proposed to buy them, but the prisoner refused to make the sale, yet, after much solicitation and the offer of seven thousand dollars for the lot, he finally yielded; the bargain was struck; he received four thousand dollars cash in hand and the purchaser's promise to pay the balance; and McAfee carried off the women and children, eight in number, beyond the lines, and, as it is supposed, to Texas. One of the colored men, the husband of Lucy, left his wife at home on 3.4 Monday morning, and, returning on Tuesday evening, found no trace of her or her children. Powerless to assert their rights or ignorant of them, they had been abducted by McAfee, who abandoned his own wife at Flat Bayou, where she still resides. The men both testify that their wives did not want to go away; and it would appear that they contemplated with aversion and terror the probability of being compelled by McAfee to accompany him. It seems that the conscience of the prisoner, or his fear of the vengeance of the outraged law, would not let him rest. He made his appearance at the Headquarters at Pine Bluff, and, relating his story, solicited exemption from prosecution. He was, however, arraigned before a military commission,for kidnapping and for selling into slavery persons of African descent made free by the President's proclamation; found guilty, and sentenced to confinement in a military prison for five years. Major General Steele, commanding the Department, approved the finding and sentence, and forwarded the proceedings for the action of the President, which has not yet been had. In the opinion of this office, it was not requisite that the confirmation of the President should be obtained; but, as it is presumable that the execution of the sentence will not commence until directed by him, it is expedient and proper that action should be taken, and it is recommended that the sentence be confirmed. The pardon of the prisoner is now applied for, by citizens 5. [*5758*]6 of Arkansas, who sign a petition averring that he has subscribed the oath prescribed by the proclamation of amnesty, and has always heretofore been a good and influential man in the church and the community. The paper sets forth no other proof of loyalty. This petition is favorably recommended by Colonel Powell Clayton, commanding at Pine Bluff. It is presented by Mr. A. A. C. Rogers, who claims to be a member of Congress elect from the 2nd district of Arkansas, and who says that he believes the prisoner intended no wrong, that the act for which he was tried occurred soon after the Federal occupation of that section, whilst all was confusion, doubt and uncertainty; "that the husband and father of the negroes sold had been taken to Texas, the owner wanted the wife and children, they wanted to go, and the prisoner sold them, in ignorance of the nature of the offence. he adds that he thinks the pardon, if granted, would strengthen the good feeling of his district toward the government. Mr. Rogers has fallen into several serious errors in his version of the case. He states that the husband and father of the negroes sold had been taken to Texas. So far from this being true, it is in evidence that the husbands of both the women are still at Flat Bayou; and so far from the woman Lucy wanting to go, her husband testifies that she begged him to remove her from the custody of the prisoner, and of McAfee, lest she should be taken away by force. Besides, whether the wishes of the adults about going or 7.8. remaining were consulted or not, it is a mockery of truth, as shallow as it is wicked, to attribute consent to the six helpless and mindless children, the oldest of whom was a boy of seven and the youngest a baby but a few months old. It would require a rule of law as repugnant to reason as the extinct slave-code of Arkansas was revolting to humanity, to impute the exercise of volition to the unhappy little beings, whom his barbarous avarice, proving stronger than his sense of the obligations of law, human or divine, impelled a presiding elder of the Methodist Church to sell into a life of hopeless bondage in a distant state. Moreover whatever "confusion" may, as Mr. Rogers avers, have attended the advent of theUnion Troops at Flat Bayou, it does not appear to leave unsettled the perceptions of the prisoner, who, so far from being in "doubt and uncertainty", as to the law by which he was bound, expressly told McAfee that a sale would be illegal, and only forgot his scruples and renunciation of the authority of a master, when the tempting bid of seven thousand dollars was finally offered. The crime of the prisoner was a deliberate and wilful violation of law. it set at naught the proclamation of emancipation. It snatched two wretched females, free by that charter, away from their husbands, and surrendered them to a thralldom of lust and violence, to end only with their lives. it consigned six unoffending children, free by that charter, to perpetual 9. [*5759*]10. servitude, in a region deemed by the purchaser (who was also the father of at least two of them) safely remote from the influences of liberty and the restraints of law. All the features of the offence are so brutal and so depraved, that to be abhored they need only to be recited; but when it is considered that the perpetrator is a presiding elder of the Methodist Church of the State of Arkansas — a man, by his position and his pretensions, the exemplar of public and private morality among the people around him, — to whom multitudes looked up as their preceptor and spiritual guide, it must be admitted that the measure of his guilt is incomparably aggravated. That a criminal of so deep a dye, who has been adjudged to suffer the abridgement of his liberty for five years, for depriving eight human beings of theirs for ever, should (with the price of his guilt still in his pocket), ask a pardon from the government he has defied, seems an instance of effrontery scarcely parralled even in the annals of the present rebellion. The government it is conceived, would be recreant to the principles which it has been forced by treason to inaugurate, if it were to treat their flagrant violation with lenity. The proclamation of emancipation is nothing, or it is an irrevocable decree of freedom to all within its terms. It is a solemn law of the land, upheld by the inherent war powers of a nation struggling for self-preservation, sanctioned by precious blood. Violations 11.12. of it should be punished in proportion to the magnitude of their consequences, and the importance of sustaining it by warming examples. The absence of prohibitory sanctions in the proclamation itself, furnishes no pretext for the misinterpretation which would exempt the prisoner from punishment for his crime. These persons stood before the law disenthralled of the shackles of slavery and absolutely free, and so the prisoner had recognized them to be. He having, with a full knowledge of their emancipation, deliberately re-enslaved them, wilfully incurred all the penalties denounced against the most atrocious species of kidnapping. The crime of the prisoner, by reason of his conspicuous social and religious position,has doubtless attracted the notice of a large number of the people of his State. His pardon, obtaining equal publicity, would, it is believed, be taken, by the traitorous adherents of slavery, as a tacit official declaration that the government did not seriously intend to maintain the most momentous and vital of its war measures, and that the President consented to be understood as permitting to pass into a mockery that proclamation, upon which, on the 1st day of January, 1863, he solemnly invoked "the considerate judgment " of mankind and the "gracious favor of Almighty "God." This is believed to be the first case in which a violation of the proclamation of emancipation has been brought to the notice of the President. 13. [*5760*]14. It is deemed fortunate for the great purposes of justice, that the proof is so strong and the circumstances so marked. The offender is a prominent personage; the victims young and weak; the sale made with full knowledge of the law and the rights of freedom it bestowed; the transaction notorious and basely mercenary. It is fit to be made a test case, in which the government may distinctly reassure the South of its unalterable purpose to enforce the decree which it has deliberately promulgated. If, while the able bodied freedmen, attracted and encouraged by that decree, are enrolling themselves as soldiers under that standard which they recognize as the symbol and the guarantee of freedom, and are exposing themselves to the perils of battle on the field and to the horrors of masacre if captured, their late masters are suffered to sell and transport their helpless wives and children into renewed servititude, without encountering the inflexible severity of adequate punishment, the government cannot fail to stand before the world dishonored by such breach of a faith, which, on the part of the unhappy race with whom it has been plighted, is being everywhere bravely and loyally kept with their blood. If the government could pardon this outrage upon its laws, or mitigate its punishment, how can it forget the wretched victims of the crime! The conviction is fully entertained that the question of pardoning or mitigation should not even be considered until 15.16. these victims shall have been returned to within our military lines and thus restored to the status of freedom which they there occupied. J. Holt, Judge Advocate General.War Dept., Aug 12th 1864 Case of Fountain Brown, Citizen. Respectfully referred to the Adjutant General for the execution of the President's order. The Military Prison at Alton, Ills., designated as the place of confinement. By order of the Secretary of War: Jas. A. Hardie Colonel and Inspector General U.S.A. Judge Advocate General's Office. June 6th 1864. To the President: John J. Glover, alias Jake, a negro, was tried September 18th 1863. before a Military Commission sitting at Memphis, Tennessee, on the charge of "Murder in the first degree", under which he was accused of the murder of one George Redman, a citizen of Arkansas, in the month of August preceding. He was found guilty, and sentenced to be hung. The sentence was approved by Genl. Hurlbut and Genl. Sherman, and the day of execution fixed for January 29, 1864. Prisoner could not be found on that day, and subsequently Genl. Sherman ascertained that he could not legally carry out the sentence without reference to the President, and the record has in consequence been sent to this office. The evidence by no means warrants the sentence awarded by the court. There can be no doubt that prisoner discharged a pistol at Redman, the result of which was his death; but the circumstances under which the homicide occurred [*5761*]2. would appear to extenuate if not entirely remove the prisoner's guilt. The evidence shows that prisoner went across the Mississippi river from Tennessee to Arkansas with another negro called "Dave", at his request, for the purpose of rescuing the two young daughters of the latter from Redman's hands. This Dave was tried and convicted about the same time for the same murder; and on his trial it was testified that Redman, an old man of seventy-two years of age, was retaining the two girls in slavery against their father's will and in violation of the President's emancipation proclamation, and had declared to Dave his intention to keep them. On Dave's trial it was further shown, by the testimony of his daughter, that Redman had sworn to shoot any man that came after them. Dave and Jake, the prisoner, crossed the river together in a skiff to effect the girls' release, and about two o'clock in the morning succeeded in getting one of the girls and taking her to the boat. They went back for the other and while reconnoitering the premises were pursued by old Redman with a pistol, and at once took to flight. It does not appar, however, that they knew that he had this pistol at the time. They ran towards the river, and being closely followed and in fact stumbled upon by Redman, Jake in his excitement drew his pistol and fired, wounding Redman so that he died a few days afterwards. Redman, it was testified, was a kind and indulgent master to his slaves, and had taken the oath of allegiance. On the same evening, some hours previously, Jake had caught a horse belonging to Redman's son and had taken it across the river into Tennessee, afterwards returning to help Dave obtain his children. When captured, he confessed that he shot the deceased. Much doubt cannot but be felt whether prisoner merits any punishment for the part he took in the transaction which led to the death of the deceased. It is true that he had no personal interest in the rescue of the two girls, such as his companion "Dave" had; but that rescue was a lawful and justifiable act on the part of his companion, and the prisoner's participation in it must be 3. 4. held to be no less justifiable and lawful. It does not appear that he went to Redman's plantation with a purpose of murder, nay, rather with a single view to the assistance of his friend in the delivery of his children from bondage; and the agitation caused by the pursuit of his master, and the imagined peril of his own life, led him involuntarily into the commission of the deed for which he has already suffered an imprisonment of nine weary months. It is true he was engaged in a business for which he could offer no excuse but that of friendship, and a wish to extend to the family of his comrade the benefits of the same freedom which he himself enjoyed; and with a knowledge of the dangers of the enterprise in which a fellow feeling led him to take a part, and of the extreme severity with which offenders of his race are treated by their white masters, it can scarcely be imputed to him as a crime that he took with him a weapon of defence, nor that in his great and natural terror under the close and armed pursuit to which he was subjected, he should have instinctively made use of it. It is believed to be a case in which a strong and armed man has rashly thrown away his life in an endeavor to enslave a feeble young woman in defiance of the proclamation of the President which had declared her free. Sgd. J. Holt, Judge Advocate General. 5.Hardinsburg May 24. 1864 Dear Sir- I expected to find Miss Stephens at Stephensport a few weeks since, on a visit there but was disappointed, I could not ascertain where she was farther than, that she was among her relations. She will of course be anxious to hear from her business and you can inform her, that I instituted suit as I told you It has been answered the action is referred to a commissioner who will report at our next term I have indicated to the Ex. of J. what I understand to be her wishes on the subject- and they seemed inclined to accede to it, that is that they pay the amount received originally by J. as trustee and the payments made by him & serving [*5761-a*]&c to be set off against the interest I would like to hear from her fully on the subject - I would like also to have her views on the subject of leasing woodland I have had several applications but have refused most of them Nothing comes of such leasing that I can see yet - Timber of course will be used - and I suffer with or without leasing - The whole of the lands, seem to be a burden to her - that is she pays taxes for nothing Yrs Jesse W Kincheloe Josey dont send this back I am going up on saturday & you please direct to cloverport Magie is coming up in ten days to see her Grandmother she tells me to give uncle J. her best love Josey she is about as near perfection I think people getsJohnson's Island Sandusky O. May 28th 1864 General Holt Washington City Sir If the position you occupy before the country interposes no difficulties to your considering such communications, I have a request, which I shall briefly submit, and await with interest, the action you may see proper to take. I have been a prisoner twice, & nine months in prison since my last capture. The system of "Special Exchanges" recognized and permitted by both governments presents an opportunity which I would gladly embrace for the consideration of my exchange. My communication with my sisters is entirely cut off & their anxieties are continual & painful in my account. Can you, & will you- the friend of both my parents long years ago- interpose in my behalf, & secure a parole of 30 or 60 days, enabling me to proceed to Richmond Va. to effect my exchange? I alluded to my family,- Judge Wm Barrett Cooke of Greensburg, & originally from Charlotte Co. Va. was my father, my bro' Wm S., my sisters, & myself were educated at Bardstown, Ky. I have the honor General to remain most respectfully Yr Obdt Servt Slaughter C Cooke To Joseph Holt Judge Adv Genl Washington City [*5762*]Washington May 30th 1864 My Dear Sir Permit me to introduce to your acquaintance the bearers of this letter my much esteemed friends Professor Horseford of Cambridge and Mr. Morgan of Rochester. They are much interested in the fate of a young soldier, now in prison for a military offense, and I beg to commend their statement in regard to him to your favourable consideration. I have the honor to remain very truly your obt. servt. Joseph Henry Judge Holt Washington [*5763*]New London May 30. 1864 My dear Sir It is said (truly) that a "Drowning man will catch at straws." I trust to your known goodness of heart, when I crave your most sound judgement in the case. which I have taken the liberty to submit; for I hear your opinion in said case as worthy of my best thanks - By reading my letter to the Pay Master Gen and his Endorsement thereon - You will have the case pretty fully set before you and if, when you are perfectly at leisure. You will favor me with your views. I shall be thankful indeed and by it endeavor to be controlled As to the Acts of Congress 3d Aug 1861 it can not control my pay & emoluments at present. That is clear.- for I am not on that list of disabled Officers. They could not force me out Oct 1" 1861. [*5764*]nor have they done so since that day - consequently - my Pay & Emoluments are not to be regulated by it. - The Act. - makes out a List of infirm, disabled and defective Officers - and as my name is not among them no other Act. of Congress can by any new cause, affix my name to that List - unless it . shall say so - The new Law or Act, 17' July 62 - began by undertaking, to "define" the pay &c of Officers of the Army - and failed to say, What Pay &c should be given to an Officer - who is not assigned or Employed on duty. - but it declares that when assigned or Employed he shall have "full Pay & Emoluments" leaving out. What Salary he shall have when NOT. assigned or Employed" Now, as, I am absent from Assignment or Employment - My Case may come under the 20" Section of the law of 3d Aug 1861. which act - deprives me. of Servants Forage their rations and clothing - Only - I have therefore made out my claim - and sent it East Answer - as follows - Pay as Col - 95 . Rations. as Col 6. . 55 - Longevity rations 11. 99 - $249 - - which is not Full (Pay) & Emoluments Does not that come near, the mark under the Act. of 1862 -[?] If. my Emoluments are not "defined" under that act - who can say. that (possitively) - it was the intention and meaning of the act, to give you pay, & Emoluments - as defined under another Law. And again that the act of 1862, is meant as an amendment to that of 1861 - when it does not read so - I may be wrong because I am interested - but Laws are made - generally definite - and this of 1862, began to proclaim that it was for that purpose - and did not The Law, Establishing, Officers or theretired list in 1861 - defined whom they were to be -- They Act of 1862 Sec 12. - declares, that Officers, who have been 45 years in service shall be withdrawn from "active duties" and "active duties" - only of course Officers of sound health, too - Officers - like me., being retired from "active duties - cannot be put on the list of disabled Invalid officers - and then - curtailed of their Longevity Rations - I should say - But my wish Sec'y is to get your clear mind to bear upon this question of the Law and advise me. What I shall have to submit to legally and I hope you will say that I have not in this been catching at straws - With sincere respect I am Your Ob' S.' Wm Gates Col USA [*Please return the letter*]Louisville May 31 1864 Mr Joseph Holt Yours of 27 has been received, and you will find enclosed a draft on New York, for Ninteen Hundred and Forty Seven 50/100 dollar it being the amnt of my note deducting, one months interest, the other note I may be able to take up in a few months please forward my note. Very Respectfully Rich'd Isaacs - [*5765*]Washington May 31st 1864 To Hon J. Holt- My dear Sir your note of Sabbath morning informed me of the severe illness of a very dear friend Mrs Cosby - On the Sabbath before leaving for New York a request was sent in for prayers in her behalf which came too late but in the closing prayer, she was remembered though not by name My absence in New York prevented my visiting her and when I returned not hearing I supposed her much improved. I have however since your note endeavored to administer such consolation as I could - But oh how impotent is man in such a case - I thank you for all your kind interest in this case and for the pleasant associations of the acquaintance I have had with you in years past God bless and preserve you & yours - Ever Truly &c. B. Sunderland [*5766*]Mrs Anna Mills Cosby Died at 12 oclock 31 May 1864 This pencil case & ring worn by her for years presented to me by her Aunt Mrs Smith June 1st 1864 [*5767*]June 7th 64 *[Mag sends her love to you]* My Dear Josey I enclose you a note that Mr Sterrett received from Judge Kincheloe so you may see how my affairs comes on & Josey likewise to inquire of you & get your advise what to do with the $6000 when I get it, which will be at the time of settlement for I hear they are anxious to pay it imeadiately & brother Jo I was thinking that I had best take it & give Kincheloe a receipt for it. & then get it to you in some way; & you can put it somewhere or lend it out so I can get the intrest, for Judge Kincheloe says that he dose not want to keep it - & Josey please if you have time write me which you think best. for brother Jo [*5768-9*]I have no one but you now to go to & I dislike to pester you at this time when I know that you are buissy & the country in such a fix. After I wrote you I went up & enraged Wesley & found a letter there from you which I thank you for. I came back for I could not think of leaving Magie alone & have been with her this time 6 weeks but must go up again on Saturday for West sent me word to pleas to come in a hurry for they was going to have a draft imediately & he wished me to come & see about it Josey when I left the bottom 6 weeks ago your Mother was well as could be expected for one of her age & had recovered from her fall so that she could walk about your brother tomas was down since I left & said his mother still continued to walk & was well & that they had got letters from camp Douglass & that John was sloly improving but the poor boy canot recover for he has the consumption President Lincon has by letting his sisterinlaw pass out with contreband goods caused a vast change in the oppinion of the people they all wish some one else made presedent & some one that has more princile than to let there relations pass out with quinine enough for the whole confederacy. Josey even the Ky soldiers say that its not worth while for them to fight & do what they can to save the government when they *[ to cloverport for I am goin up soon]*they have a presiden that lets his relations pass with quinine which is helping the south; its caused the union people to pray for a better ruler with one voice they all proclaim that they will never vote for him to serve anoth term, every one thinks that he will whim Grant for they say how can it be otherways when Lincon let Mrs White take all the plans & news & quinine to Richmond its made him unpopular they say that the goverment can never be restored while he stays there burn this before you put it out of your hand Josey do you not know that its been a long long time since I have seen you do come if you only stay one day if you knew how I wanted to see you you would come your loving aunt Mary K Stevens *[direct your letter to cloverport]*Georgetown Ky. June 1st 1864 Judge J Holt Dear Sir My son Thomas P Worthington is in prison at Camp Morton Indianapolis has been sick for a long time having had four attacks of pneumonia since January he is now in the hospittle his chest is covered with a blister plaster a foot square in his present situation he can live but a short time and this is to ask the favor of you to use your influence with the President to Parole him & on taking the oath Judge Duvall of this place made an application to the President through L Powell inclosing the certificate of Dr Todd my sons physician the papers are all in the hands of the Hon L Powell my son is a small weekly young man was taken prisonor on my plantation in Washington County Miss, he came home on a visit and as I was then within the federal lines I thought I could keep him at home a while to help me on my farm as my negroes had all been taken from me My son did belong to 1stMiss Cavelry, Bolivar From Pinstons Redgement, Cansbeys Brigade was taken by Col Osbands negro Redgement in November last I expect to be in Washinton in 10 or 15 days but my sons situation requires immediate attention [*5770*]I will be under lasting obligation to you if you will befriend me in this my time of trouble write me as soon as you can to this peace your forever &c W.W. Worthington P.S Capt Osband under an order of General Grant took 1035 Bales cotton from Saml W and myself we have a receipt for it the account of sale at Memphis &c I will visit Washington soon to try to collect it I am planting under federal regulations have protection paper &c W W W New York June 2d 1864 To Provost Marshal Gen. U.S.A. Washington D.C. Sir I have the honor to request that the enclosed open letter may be forwarded through the lines to its direction. It contains merely the notice of the death "Jas. M. Peirce "K". Co. 30th N.C. Vol." & is addressed to his mother. By sending this or by notifying me in what way it can be sent you will very much oblige. Yours Respectfully Appleton Sturgis. Appleton Sturgis Letter returned to him, M.CONTINENTAL BANK CONSENT OF STOCKHOLDERS to become an Association under the Act of Congress, "to provide a National Currency, secured by a pledge of United States Bonds, and to provide for the circulation, and redemption thereof." - Approved June 3, 1864. We, the undersigned, Stockholders of the Continental Bank, of the city of New York, having a capital of two million dollars, in the amounts set opposite our names respectively, do hereby, for ourselves, our executors, administrators and assigns, consent and mutually agree together, that said bank shall, if the Board of Directors so determine, become an association for carrying on the business of banking under the Act of Congress, entitled " An Act to provide a National Currency," &C, passed June 3, 1864, and we do hereby severally authorize and empower the Board of Directors of this Bank, in their discretion, or a majority thereof, to accept and avail of any and all powers and privileges which said bank may be or become entitled to, under any law of this State, or of the United States, in aid of the change hereby contemplated, and to make and execute the Articles of Association and certificate of organization required or contemplated, by said Act of Congress, ans also to make and execute all other instruments and certificates, and do all acts necessary to be done to convert said Continental Bank into a National Association as aforesaid, and also to do and perform all such acts as may be necessary to transfer the assets of every description and character of said Continental Bank to the National Banking Association, into which it is to be converted, so that the said conversion may be absolute and complete, and so that our several and respective rights and interests as stockholders, shall be and remain the same in the said new association as they now are in said Continental Bank. And we do hereby assume, and authorize the said Directors to assume, as the name of the National Banking Association, into which the said Continental Bank is to be converted, "The National Continental Bank;" and we do hereby appoint the several persons who may be the Directors of the said Continental Bank, at the time of the filing of said certificate of organization to be the Directors of the said, "The National Continental Bank," to hold their offices as such Directors until the regular annual election of Directors is held, pursuant to the provisions of said Act of Congress, and until their successors are chosen and qualified. And we do hereby authorize the said Directors to continue in office the officers of the said Continental Bank, or to appoint, or select others as to them may seem best. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands, and written against our names the number of shares owned by us respectively, this day of 186 . NAMES OF STOCKHOLDERS RESIDENCE NUMBER AMOUNT OF SHARES.June 4. 1864. My dear Sir. I write to ask a favor. Will you be so kind as to favor me with a few lines of your handwriting to place in my autograph book with your signature signed? Any others that you can send me will be thankfully received by Your friend Very Respectfully A.T. Goodman Please direct to A.T. Goodman 150th Ohio Nat. Guard Washington D.C. [*5773*]Metropolitan Insurance Company (Fire and Marine) New York June 4th 1864 Hon. Joseph Holt, Washington, Sir, Col. John H. Peck, who is now confined in the Old Capitol Prison, on some charge connected with the defalcation of a paymaster named Lawrence, is a native of Vermont, where he was for many years the second partner in the wealthy and influential firm of J & J. H. Peck & Co. at Burlington. During the time I lived there, to wit, from 1838 to 1852, the family stood at the head of society in every respect, and it was not [*5774*]until a series of unfortunate operations connected with rival rail roads in Vermont had brought this once powerful house to hopeless bankruptcy, that a word was ever breathed against the honor of any member of it. That failure produced a bitter family feud, which was followed by endless criminations & recriminations, in which the rest were mainly combined against John H. Peck, and they undoubtedly succeeded in producing some prejudice against him among his old neighbors. This was largely aided by the fact that he was a man of rather more fastidious tastes than his father & brothers, lived more elegantly, spent more money, and was rather more exclusive in his habits. But I had been, through all the years I lived there, a personal friend of all the parties, and never consented to put any faith in any of the accusations made on either side, nor to be involved, in the slightest degree, in their quarrels. I have been on pleasant terms with them all ever since. I have had many transactions with John H. Peck, & always found him a frank and honorable gentleman such as I always knew him. Whatever appearances there may be growing out of correspondence whichwith him is almost always jocular & sometimes excessively & extravagantly so, I am convinced he has not begun to be a rascal at this age, after the education and career he has heretofore had. I write now as his friend to ask that there may be a speedy hearing in his case, and that he may not be left in this weather, with his nervous constitution and plethoric habit, to die in the dreary cells of a prison. For myself I beg to refer to Senators Morgan, Foot and Sumner. Very respectfully yr obd Sevt E.A. Stansbury*[copy]* Albany Peny: June 6th 1864 To His Excellency Abraham Lincoln President of the United States Sir. May the spirit of Almighty God operate upon your heart as you open this and cause you to read unto the end, and grant the prayer herein contained. I have been imprisoned over twelve months, upwards of 17 months in all- need I say that my sufferings have been very great, both in body and mind, for the desolate condition of my poor sorrowing family is ever before. It is a holy boon I beg of you that of restitution to sweet liberty- an act of grace peculiarly and exclusively within the prerogative of your Excellency. Oh! let this brief but prayerfully earnest appeal soften your heart and influence you to return me to freedom. Think of the golden rule and let it not pass unheeded. "Verily! you will have your reward." May God bless and guide you to just and righteous conclusions. Very Respectfully William T. Smithson [*5775*]Barnum's Hotel Baltimore June 7th '64 Hon. Joseph Holt. I called at your office on yesterday in Washington, for the purpose of paying my respects to you, and learned then that I was too late- It was perhaps beyond your business hours. I regretted this very much & then called on the President, and found him to be exceedingly pleasant, and as I believe, the very man to carry out the very best interests of this country. I am a delegate to the Convention which will assemble in a few hours in this place. Should you visit here during the next two or three days, I would be glad you would advise me of your locality & I will call & see you. My daughter desired to be remembered to you most kindly. Wishing you all possible prosperity I am Yrs. Truly Geo. W. Hite [*5776*]June 9"/64. 418 = 5 Avenue My dear Mr Holt Write me "two" "lines" saying subscribe for me, to the "Holt", Agreement." Share and share alike, Male and Female, if you have not the time, write a "Telegraph", to my Daughter", in Law", Mrs. W. H. Secor 418= 5th Ave. "Say to your Mother Mrs. Chas A. to subscribe my name, or as much you think proper as she is a "Clear Head" her Brother C. Hinchman- has all in his charge. he is Supt of all Telegraph lines, on this continent. [*5777*]Your Signature will be equivalent. I do not wish any money from any heirs at present. you quite mistook me. I must first ascertain what amount could be raised if sufficient, to send Mr Lewin to England then comes another question. Should that ever occur- the utmost will be but $25. a piece you will not withold your name, as a Holt in aiding the different branches from signing, and recovering if possible my own Brothers and Sisters will sign lastly it will be in better taste, and perhaps, my "Brother" "Asa" may be able to sign with us. "God grant" it may be so. Wishing this may find you, in good health. I remain as ever your Cousin Lydia H. Secor Pay Department U.S.A., Nashville, Tenn Jun 10th 1864 Hon Joseph Holt Dear Sir Permit me to introduce the bearer A.L. Post Esq of Susquehanna County Penn'a Mr Post is a Gentleman of strict integrity, a Lawyer of no ordinary talent; a firm supporter of the present "Administration" and its policy; and has for many years been a friend and advocate of "Emancipation" Mr Post desires a position in the "Bureau of Emancipation," the organization of which is contemplated by Congress and I am sure he will discharge the duties honorably & efficiently of any position for which he may ask in said "Bureau" any aid you may grant him in the matter, will be duly appreciated. Very Respectfully Asa Holt Jr. [*5778*][*[1861?]*] Louisville June 10th in the afternoon Hon. J. Holt, My Dear friend, I once heard John Cleaves, whom you may remember as a fat auctioneer, for Ely, on 4th Street, says, in putting up a book entitled Bishop Newton's Correspondence: "This writer was so intensely fond of his wife that he used to write her a letter every quarter of an hour when he was absent from her." Cleaves knew nothing about Bishop Newton; he did not even know whether he had a wife, but he ventured upon that volunteer testimony to the activity of his devotion. I fear that you will think my activity in making an approach to that assumed for newton. I wrote you a letter yesterday, another this morning, and here is another. Since my other letter left here I have heard so much gratifying news that I feel that I must give it to you at once. The rev. Mr. Heywood ran out into the street & said to me: "Do the records of intellect contain a more eloquent appeal than the letter of Mr. Holt?" He handed me five dollars toward a pamphlet edition. Old Father Richardson, of the Northern Bank gave five dollars & said- if you need one hundred dollars call on me for it. A fine subscription has been made up this morning, almost without effort. Our first talk was about distributing it to the State at cost. The people here say, no, that shall not be done- Louisville will present it to the state. We are printing fifty thousand copies of it, in a neat pamphlet edition. The heart of the people is fired by its fervid and chastened eloquence, and Kentuckians feel proud that their State produced the man that reached that sublimity of patriotism through the burning fires of a pure intellect. Your old friends feel happy in knowing that they were not deceived in their friendship {*5779*}they rejoice to know that great as the emergency was, you have proved yourself fully equal to it. There is not a real point in the great treason that is not touched and that too with the hand of a master. I have known nothing, from any source whatever that has so perfectly touched the hearts of the people. I have found persons all over the city sending this precious gem of patriotism, this glorious wreath of truth, integrity, and righteousness away to their distant friends. The universal desire seems to be that every body shall read it. Many persons here have read it five or six times & seem as if they will never tire in the perusal. A cashier of one of the banks was in my office until midnight last night , and he informed me that he should purchase one hundred & fifty copies of the Journal of today to distribute among the people in his section of the state. With what a fatal lunge has a side pass of your rapier touched that adderlike reptile in the thoroughfares of Kentucky—neutrality— armed neutrality that buccanneering resort of European powers who resort to it to aggrandise themselves when their neighbors get worsted in near! To think of that in a State that rejoices in the fame of Henry Clay, of Joseph Hamilton Daviess, of Adair, Croghan, Richard M. Johnson, the bones of whose people consecrated almost every battle field from Canada to New Orleans, in the contest with Great Britain. But I earnestly hope that the days of that disgraceful bondage are nearly over. It has laid, like a heavy chain upon the minds of the loyal Union men of Kentucky. I was at our Union Club to night and the indications through the State are of the most cheering character. There is reason to believe that we shall lay Burnet on the shelf, & I presume the political burial of A. G. Talbot is almost a sure thing. The Secessionists are alarmed at the thoroughness of the Union organization. We are working in every part of the State. We have fully five thousand in Louisville & are enlarging the number every twenty four hours. I found the Club in extacies over your letter. They intended to republish your letter themselves, until they learned that I had it on hand. As soon as we get the pamphlet out, I will send you some copies. I feel that your letter will give us the Kentucky legislature & that will be a solid & substantial triumph. But I have said enough, for this time- Once more- I am very truly & very lovingly yours T. S. Bell.Attorney General's Office, Washington June 11, 1864 Col J Holt Judge Advocate Genl Sir, I beg to present to you William Price Esq, of Baltimore, a gentleman of whom I have a very high opinion, both as man & a lawyer. He is Atty of the U.S. for the District of Maryland. I believe he desires to lay before you a case which he deems very important. But he will explain his own business, and I only request in his behalf, your courtesy & kindness Most respectfully yr obt servt Edwd Bates [*5780*] Albany Peny: June 11th 1864 Hon: Joseph Holt Dear Sir Ever since my incarceration in this prison, I have frequently thought of writing to you, but being unwilling to trouble you with my personal sorrows and afflictions I have hesitated to do so, but believing that you would receive and read a short letter from me in the same spirit which has prompted me to write, I have determined to send you a few lines for your perusal. My object in writing at this time, is twofould; first, that I may thank you for the very kind and respectful attention you have shown my sorrowing wife on her repeated visits to you; and also for the evident interest with which you have listened to what she had to say respecting her sorrows and personal troubles. Second, to assure you that ever since the breaking out of our present and most unfortunate difficulties, I have been both misunderstood and frequently misrepresented, and many wicked thing have been attributed to me of which I was not guilty. So far from aiding and abetting the South at any time, I assure you that I have never said, or done, or written anything with an intention of injuring [ [*5781*]the government, or any one connected with it, neither have I at any time contemplated doing so. I would not knowingly injure any one and I most conscientiously assure you that I have tried for the last twenty years to do strictly to every man, as I would be done by. I can truthfully say that I wish no man evil; and that there is no man living that desires more than I do, to see our national difficulties all amicably settled and the country peacefully and happily united in bonds of fidelity. God knows that, I desire to be weighed in an even balance that all may know my integrity. I most earnestly covet your confidence and prayers, and I send this letter hoping not fearing or trembling, but still hoping that you will in the spirit of a Christian pity me and my deeply afflicted family, and graciously do what you can for our relief and rescue. Beging that you will pardon me for the liberty I have taken in addressing you this poor letter and again thanking you for the kind christian feeling you have manifested toward my wife, I subscribe myself fraternally, Your Sincere friend William T. Smithson P.S. I enclose a copy of a letter I addressed to the President recently. Larnaca, June 13th 1864 My Dear Friend, Since I last wrote to you, a new joy has come to our hearts in the sweetest and purest type of innocence and beauty conceivable, and I feel assured that if you could just see the angelic form and features of our precious little child, Virgie Huntington Barclay, with her soft, clear blue eyes and black hair, you would think no language I can use in acquainting you with her charms to be exaggerated In the Island of Venus herself, she is acknowledged by every body to be all that legend and [*5782*] fable attribute to the Paphian Goddess – above all other charms she is good, and I think is as perfect in mind as body – What would I not give to see you now in our midst to cause our cup of happiness to overflow by your presence. If we are not to have this happiness here, we love to think that we shall see you again in our own land when we shall again be privileged to call it our home. A few weeks since the Hon. R. J. Walker passed through this Island with his family coming from Egypt, bringing the news of the death of our Consul there Mr. Theyer - and informed me that a Greek merchant was temporarily discharging the duties of the port. Should the present Administration make no appointment for this year, do you think it would be possible for me to be appointed provisionally by the department, this being the nearest consulate to the post? He seemed much encouraged by the result of his efforts in Europe to dispose of U.S. bonds, more particularly in Germany where he said the demand was very great & Austrian paper disposed of & U.S. bought. He spoke of his acquanitance with you as an early and cherished one & said that when he returned to Washington he would tell you all about our Island home. He informed me that the novel scientific voyage undertaken for the thoroughexploration of the Dead Sea by the Duke de Louyries has not been very successful. You have perhaps seen some mention of this enterprise in the papers. He had with him a steam gunboat, in which he proposed visiting the most interesting places in the Mediterranean, whence he would sail to the Black Sea, ascend the Don, cross the steppes of Dolgo in a waggon to reach the Volga, which he intended descending to the Caspian Sea, after exploring which the travelers would cross on Camels the deserts of Asia Minor to the town of Mossul, where they intend exploring the course of the Tigris and the Euphrates and examine the ruins of the great cities which flourished on their banks, and then return to France by the Persian Gulph & Red Sea. The boat was transported from Jaffa to Jerusalem & thence to the Dead Sea on camels where it was launched, but after several weeks exploration was destroyed by the Arabs who called it the evil spirit of the Accursed cities of Sodom & Gomorrah - Mrs. Barclay sends best regards to you. Ever in sincere & devoted attachment J. J. BarclayGeorgetown DC June 13th 1864 Dear Sir I feel well assured that I owe my liberty to your justice and humanity and as an honorable man tender you my heart felt and grateful Thanks and trust the day may come when I shall have an opportunity of proving this Sincerely vry Respectfully Yr Obt Servt A. R. Mott To The Honl. Joseph Holt Judge Advocate Genl [*5783*]Dr. A. R. Mott.New York June 13th Dear Mr Holt, "Necessity owns no law", therefore, I write without awaiting your reply to my last. The Col is agonised with the aspect of poverty presented him this week in a telegram from Washington announcing his name on the Retired List with half pay - Can you do any thing to dissuade Mr Lincoln from permitting or sanctioning such [*your silence to an[e] excess of happiness? I shall certainly rejoice in all that increases your store of enjoyments - If you can at all relieve my mind address me to this*] [*5784*]an act of oppression? We cannot live upon the pittance prescribed by the law- My husband's infirm son twenty seven years of age, is incompetent to aid himself, my mother is in a delicate and feeble state. Our four young children must be clothed as well as fed- All depend on the Col's income. Withdrawn, we sink into destitution- It pains me always to intrude our troubles upon your notice, but I know your heart consequently seek your sympathy You know something of the Col's military record. The New London papers give him great credit for his services at the Post- He is in admirable health at present- Why should he be thus treated? I heard yesterday that Col Merchant whose name was also placed [there] among the criminals of forty five years choice [standing] for execution [through] & the unjust law was through the influence of some friend retained- One exception [*City where I shall remain a while*] [*May all the good angels protect you from disappointments wrongs and the unjust deeds of a wicked Administration.]*to the mandate makes room for others- I am disturbed but not without hope. Coming down here to attend the wedding of a friend was greeted by this sad intelligence on the 10th I hope you are enjoying summer's wealth of joys- Mrs Whiting dropped in this morning to see me- & wishes to be remembered to you- who does not to be remembered by you that has ever known you I should so much like to see you. Am I to attribute [*Ever yours sincerely H.L. Gates*}Rooms of the Ames Institute, Indianapolis, Ind. June 15th 1864 Hon Joseph Holt Judge Advocate Gen'l Dear Sir:- If compatible with your duties and arrangements, the "Ames Institute" would be most happy to secure your service for an address before them as near the 1st of December proximo as your engagements may permit. It is intended to institute a course of Lectures, the evening season, and I am instructed to extend an invitation to yourself by the Institute I represent. If you can make it at all consonant with your duties a favorable answer would be most gratefully appreciated. Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana, loyal to the core, would delight to honor [*5785*]one of Freedom's most fearless and eloquent champions. Will you please address me a letter as soon as practicable, and if favorable, state terms, time &c, as best suits you. Address Elijah W. Halford Box 847 Indianapolis Ind. Hon Jos Holt, Washington, D.C. If your answer is favorable I will immediately reply, closing the negotiations E W HalfordSunday June 18th My dear good Cousin Your kind, and prompt reply to my letter has reached me and how much I thank for the expressions of interest and sympathy contained therein I can scarcely tell you. It is a positive comfort for me to know that there is one person in this world who perfectly understands my character. I do not mean to say that there are not many who do me full justice in many instances but you always understand me and however numerous [*5786*]you may think my faults - up to this time you have never named one to me - until I am almost forced to believe that you do not know of any - Certainly the view you have taken of my late trouble and my course of conduct has been a correct one and you judge me so much as I would be judged that in reading your dear kind letter I felt that I would give anything in this world just to put my arms around your neck and tell you how much I loved you for it all - I cannot feel very lonely while you live and God grant it may be for many long years yet - Do not tell me you will be old and uninteresting as you have done - To me you will always be the same & your kind and gentle ways to me will ever wire my best affections - Cousin you must feel that all your interest in me is thoroughly appreciated for when I think how deep it is, and how long continued I cannot but feel very very grateful and very anxious to prove to you my appreciation of it. You would serve me you say; dear Cousin you can never serve me so will as by loving me in the future as you have in the past - you have had an appearance sad and troublesome enough yourself and this makes youmore than am prepared to guard & protect your far off cousin and indeed indeed to no one would I come so intensely both in truth and joy than yourself. It may be my good fortune to see you this summer – Oh how much I hope so – I am boarding with Mrs Pilcher whose son in law, a [?] of about 45 has proposed a trip this summer, taking with him his daughter and sister, urging me to join the party – Of course I want to. It would be a long hot summer for me here, and a very lonely one. Then the trip is one I should dearly love to take – To Pt Loring to Magard up the St Lawrenceto the White Mountains - to Boston - New York - Phila Balt Washington & then home I mean New Orleans. It might be that I could persuade you to travel as far as Magard and then spend a few days of uninterrupted happiness with me. It would certainly do you a great deal of good and I doubt not, make you happy - for this power I still claim. Oh Cousin it would be so delightful to have you there with me - but Ah me I am not certain of the pleasure myself. I have written home how much I want to take the trip and if they encourage me to do so, there will be nothing [*5787*]to prevent – Cousin Holt I have sent you a little book which is my first library production and though it is quite private and indeed of little interest to any one outside of the party concerned I felt sure that you would like to read it. After this trouble of ours occurred Mr Labarres Cousin Mr André Burthe came frequently to see me and we both came to the conclusion that the young "Frenchman" was half crazy. I felt so indignant at his conduct that I could find no other construction upon it. Mr Burthe suggested that I should write a "Romance" so I did and the members of the happy circle insisted upon having it published, that they might each have a copy. It is all fact from beginning to end and if you only knew the characters and the situation perfectly you would really appreciate my first effort – I write it in one evening at any rate so you must be very lenient in your criticism. I still spend a few days of my week at Mrs Spangenhigs and she is my most intimate friend. All the haunted cane fields I watched with such interest, are now under water and Oh the sight is melancholy – What an uncertain and risky business it is!You ask about sister Beckie – She is keeping house but on a very small scale – Cousin, that Dutchman she married has changed her nature completely & she, poor deluded girl, adores him and cares for no one who doesn't worship him – I despise him for there is no truth in him and the less we see of each other the better – More than all I hate him that he has so marred Beckies affections from me – If I could tell you all you would not wonder that I feel so – So you see Cousin I am more alone than yourself and oftentimes the truth comes over me & makes me most unhappy It requires all the courage I have to smile and be myself – To you and your kind letter I am [*indebted for one very happy day. Write me soon dear Cousin and tell me if I take the trip do you think it will be possible for you to enjoy a small portion of it with me or must I as of old come to Washington in order to see you? Give me some hope of one day at Magard and believe me yours*]Unofficial Milwaukee June 18 1862. Brig Gen'l Joseph Holt Washington General I am more than repaid for my labor in preparation of the letter to Dr. Bronnson on the Fitz John Porter affair by your very flattering appreciation of it [*5788*]The letter is published in New York Evening Post of 12th inst. I include a proof copy. Would it be possible to have it inserted in some Washington or Baltimore paper? My object in writing it was not so much to convince Dr. B as to get the facts before the public. The Baltimore pamphlet has a restricted circulation, and there are good reasons for supposing that that a large portion of the Congressional edition of the trial has been suppressed or retained by Copperhead M. C's!- With apology for intruding on your attention. I have the honor to be General, With profound respect Yr Obt Servt J. F. Meline Major U.S.A.