From the Richmond Daily Dispatch, 7/9/1862

The authorities are debating the propriety of removing all of the Yankee prisoners from the tobacco factories to Belle Isle, in the James river. It is thought that the location would suit for the purposes indicated admirably. The temptation to escape would not be enhanced by the change in position, while fewer men would serve as a guard. The river is of considerable depths around the shores of the island.

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