Civil War–dated ALS from an army captain, eight pages, 7.75 x 9.75, Branch Office, Prov. Mar. Gen'l, A. of P. letterhead, June 13, 1862. Letter to General Patrick. In part: “I am speaking now of the facilities offered by which the messes of officers in the army can be supplied. You will notice that Col. Hardie has directed that transportation for vegetables…be given on the mail boats when it does not intefere [sic] with govt. transportation. This is very well and of course will be regarded as magnanimous. You will now please read the endorsement signed Genl Halleck which says…that Maj. Gen Meade manages the internal arrangements of the Army of the Potomac…I went to the Q.M. Genl's office…& was given to understand that instructions would be given…to transport by Mail boat…I was told to return again after Genl Meigs had been seen upon the subject. I… was told that a telegram had been received from Genl Ingals saying that Purveyors and sutters stores ought not to be sent of govt. boats…I was informed…that nothing could be done…he said that the whole matter rested with the War Department…after talking to Col. Hardie he sent for Mr. Denbam who…was willing to allow the War Department to send to the Army of Potomac vegetables…had his usual story to tell about the one half of these sutters or Purveyors being spies & smuggling contraband into the army…the Servt of Maj. Genl Meade had an invoice approved by your authority and also at the War Department…he went to Captain Allen at the wharf for transportation & was denied… with your permission I will make a suggestion…make an application to the sect of War through the Comdg Genl asking that such stores as offices may order and have your approval…be allowed to come to the army on Govt. transports when it does not interfere with Government transportation. I would like to see such an application go forward approved by Genl. Ingals & Genl Meade and Lt. Genl. Grant if necessary* This arrangement to continue in force only so long as trade is suspended in the army. When that is resumed and Traders are allowed to charter vessels they should furnish their own transportation…*Perhaps it would be enough if Lt. Genrl Grant were to order it.” In fine condition, with a paperclip mark to the upper left. RR Auction COA.
