O.R.--SERIES II--VOLUME VI [S# 119]

UNION AND CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, ETC., RELATING TO PRISONERS OF WAR AND STATE FROM JUNE 11, 1863, TO MARCH 31, 1864.--#20

LIBBY PRISON, November 8, 1863.

Colonel OULD, Commissioner of Exchange:

    COLONEL: I have received a second consignment of blankets and clothing from my Government for our soldiers prisoners here.

    When I distributed the last consignment I was not permitted to take any officers with me as assistants, consequently the labor was heavy and the work was not so satisfactorily accomplished.

    I have reason to think that many things have not been accounted for. I wish very much to take with me in distributing the clothing, &c., now on hand about six officers as assistants. Two of them captains and four lieutenants, all acquainted with the business, all, if wished, on their parole for the time.

    I hope this may be accorded to me.

    I wish to call your attention to the condition of the prisoners on Belle Isle.

    Many of them, about one half I am told, have no shelter, and have not sufficient food; have no soap, and, in short, are in a most wretched condition, suffering very much every way.

    I entreat you to see that their condition is improved so far as it may be in your power.

    I am informed that there are considerable bills of expense on the goods received for the prisoners and have been called on for payment.

    I am at a loss to know why there should be charges in such a case. The inclosed note (*) was handed to me at Belle Isle.

    I hope you will consider favorably the case of the writer.

    Respectfully,

NEAL DOW,

Brigadier-General, U.S. Army.

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