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Rh

, July 1, 1864.

General—I send with this a letter addressed by five General officers of the United States army, now prisoners of war in this city, to Brigadier-General L. Thomas, Adjutant-General United States army, recommending and asking an exchange of prisoners of war.

I fully concur in opinion with the officers who have signed the letter, that there should be an exchange of prisoners; and though I am not instructed by my Government to enter into negotiations for that purpose, I have no doubt that it is willing and desirous now, as it has ever been, to exchange prisoners of war with your Government on just and honorable terms. One difficulty in the way of carrying out the cartel of exchange agreed on between the two Governments would not exist, that I am aware of, if the exchange were conducted between you and myself. If, therefore, you think proper to communicate with your Government on the subject, I will without delay communicate with mine, and it may be that we can enter into an agreement, subject to the approval of our respective Governments, by which the prisoners of war now languishing in confinement may be released.

I should be glad to aid in so humane a work; and, to the end that there may be no unnecessary delay on my part, I have directed an officer of my staff, Major J. F. Lay, Assistant Adjutant and Inspector-General, charged with the delivery of this, to wait a reasonable time in the vicinity of Port Royal ferry for your answer. He is fully informed of my views on the subject, and, if you desire it, will confer with you or any officer you may designate.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, , Major-General Commanding.

To Major-General , Commanding Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C.