From the Richmond Sentinel, June 1, 1864

WHAT IS BELLE ISLE KEPT UP FOR?

For sometime past, some eighty to ninety prisoners have been kept on the island. They could easily be removed to Libby or some other prison, and the same guard that attend them could guard there also. At this time, the guard at Belle Isle numbers 84, who have been on double duty, without any relief for sixteen days. Would it not be better to send these prisoners farther South, where food is cheaper, and relieve not only the guard for other duty, but also relieve those in command of the post? It is a useless expense to the Government, and ought to be abolished until more prisoners are sent there. If the guard is relieved as it ought to be, it would require 68 men to guard the 90 prisoners that are there.

• Prev
• Next