From the Richmond Dispatch, 7/21/1862, p. 1, c. 7

Selling Liquor. – Complaints having been made to the Military Police that a certain Dr. read, for some time past stopping at No. 51 American Hotel, was in the habit of violating martial law by keeping a sort of semi-bar in his room, where, for a heavy consideration, any kind of liquor could be obtained, the detectives were ordered on Saturday to sift out the matter and arrest the party, if circumstances justified the step. Getting an introduction from an initiated part, which in this case was a small red ticket with "No. 51," in bold relief, the officers proceeded to Dr. Read's room, and presenting the card, found the occupant busy filling up bottles with liquor. They purchased a bottle of claret for $5, and after the transaction was concluded disclosed their names and business, and carried to Dr. R. off to Castle Godwin. His stock was also seized.

• Prev
• Next