Handwritten endorsement, “Recd. at N.O. Augt 13th 1865 G.T.B,” at the bottom of the second page of Beauregard’s copy of a letter from William T. Sherman. (The copy of Sherman’s letter was secretarially written and signed). Two pages, lightly-lined, 7 x 8.5, August 1, 1865. In full: “Your communication of July 8th with the later note of the 12th came to me here. And I have sent both to Genl Hoffman at Washington with this Endorsement 'Respectfully referred to Genl Hoffman’s Commanding General of Prisoners; if the boxes and trunks referred to by Genl Beauregard and contain private papers and clothing, they should be returned to him as something too small for a great Government to notice. If the contents be of sufficient importance Genl Beauregard should be notified plainly that he may know.'
Since my assignment West I have not exercised any command East, and can only undertake to influence as far as I can properly. You know that is a very nice question to determine what are public and what are private papers.
Less difficulty would exist as to clothing, printed matter and articles of ordinary use and you might find it to your interest to divide your application. I see that the War Dept has made a separate Bureau of captured archives and documents with a view to collect and arrange the material and Professor Lieber is placed in charge of the Bureau. He is regarded as perfect authority on all questions arising under Treaties, conventions &c and it would be better for you to address him direct. Of course all conventions should be religiously kept, for on them are based the most sacred Rights of War and consequent Peace.
I am truly yours, W. T. Sherman, Maj. Genl, U. S. Army.” Beauregard does incorporate his name into the heading, “Genl G. T. Beauregard, New Orleans.” Intersecting folds and a bit of paper loss to one corner tip, otherwise fine condition. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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