From the National Archives, M437 (Letters Received by the Confederate Secretary of War 1861-1865), Roll #6
Head Quarters Camp at McDowell
July 27th 1861
To the Surgeon General
Confederate Forces, Richmond;
Sir
I have the misfortune to report that Surgeon Wm. A. Carrington was taken prisoner by the enemy. I have earnestly to request that in view of the large amount of sickness and disability from which this regiment is suffering, you will assign a Surgeon to this regiment with orders to report at once.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
W. B. Taliaferro
Col. 23rd Regiment Va Vols.