Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 32.djvu/77

 Attempted Sale of the Federal Fleet. 65

ing the case of Glenney. He learned that G. was to weaken his crew by allowing his men to be taken prisoners and then to be overpowered by men from shore. He agreed to cross the rebel army or allow it to cross, for which he was to receive $2,000 in money and one hundred bales of cotton.

It is said that he has received the money, but not the cotton. Respectfully submitted,

R. L. MAY, Lieutenant-Commander, Commanding Fifth District Mississippi Squadron.

U. S. S. RATTLER, October 18, 1864.

Friend Randolph, Last evening the merchant steamer Joseph Pierce touched alongside of this vessel, and a gentleman who claimed to be your brother visited me. On account of existing circumstances, his wish could not be granted. He was kind enough to send me the following message, to-wit : that a rebel deserter was on board of the Benton, who could swear that I had communicated with the enemy and agreed to sell my vessel to them. God is con- scious that I am innocent of anything wrong, and if I have done a wrong it has been from a desire to serve the good cause that we are all actually engaged in. My conscience, dear friend, is as clear as the noonday sun, but circumstantial evidence has at times proved stronger than positive proof, and such evidence undoubtedly may be brought against me.

I now wish to receive a favor from you, and you will eventually find that I am not unmindful of it. As soon as you receive this note, answer it by first boat up and tell me who the rebel is that you have. Whether he is an officer or a private, what is his name, when he did come aboard of you, and what the story is that he tells ? Please be candid with me, and you will never regret it. Let me know what Mr. Lound's sentiments are.

I am very anxious to get information as speedily as possible, as I have a lawyer already engaged, who is in direct communication with me.

The events of the last few weeks have made me nearly broken- hearted. I have been treated unjustly, but I will not complain, convinced as I am that, an impartial court will honorably acquit me of any wrong.

You will excuse me for not going into details at present, but at a