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YALE
UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

MY RECORD IN
REBELDOM, BY
Lieut. Col. J. M. Sanderson.

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AS WRITTEN BY
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^riitto for gribaie Circnlation: anb J^utnri %damtt,
— BY —
J^]y:ES M:. S^iNTDERSOI^,
LATE LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 'ADDITIONAL AIDE-DE-CAMP, AND CHIEF COMMISSARY
OF SUBSISTENCE OF THE FIRST ARMY CORPS.

asr E "w - -ST o R k: I
W. E. SIBELL, STATIONER AND PRINTER, No. 5 WALI. STREET
1865.

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TO MY ENEMIES
AND MY LUKE-WARM FRIENDS,
I DEDICATE THIS BOOK.

acknowledging my inctebiedness.
tfiat I may prove ?iow Uttle I owe them.
by their persistence in falsehood, and indtistry in wrong
doing, hare extorted my special wonder.
by their nnbecotning reticence and ungenerous silence, are
entitled to tny tendisguised contempt, *¦
I tender my than/cs for the substaiitial triumph they have
afforded me,
=^ //« &tAei,
my regrets that they have proven false to themselves.
my congratulations that they hare failed alike in their
active and passive injustice, in their positive
and negative wrong,
Brooklyn, JVovember, /SSS,

INTEODUCTIOIS^,

After enduring, for nearly eight months, the horrors of a.
Southern prison, I found myself, almost on the very morning
of my enfranchisement, (Avitli a heart overflowing with joy,
and sincerely thankful to that Providence which had so mer
cifully protected me from the ills and dangers of my incarcera
tion,) suddenly stripped of my happiness, and my liberty
again restricted by tho action of my own Government — ^vhich,
for three years, I had manfully striven to uphold. On the
very point of returning to my family, I was arrested by an
order of the Secretary of War, and directed to confine mj^self
to the limits of WiUard's hotel. Conscious of no crime, I
cheerfully yielded to the orders of my superior ofEcer — confid
ently believing that a brief period would place me in possession
of the allegations against me, to which I had little doubt of
making a satisfactory reply. The fact of my arrest being an
nounced in the public journals, my friends, both military and
civil, hastened to express 1:heir confidence in my honor, by
personal visits. Among them was one who, more conversant
with military usage than myself, intimated that the coufsa
pursued in my case was unusual and severe. Outraged at this.
information, I immediately called on my former commander and
always friend — James S. Wadsworth, then temporarily stop
ping at the hotel. Confiding to him my troubles, he at once
sought the Secretary of War, and, after briefly stating my
services and character, asked that I should be treated in a
manner commensurate with my deserts. Strongly prejudiced
against me by the slanders of my enemies, this gentleman not

6
¦only refased his request, but threatened to send me to Portress
-Monroe — there to remain for the balance of the war. Believ
ing him in earnest, my gallant defender immediately posted off
to the proposed place of imprisonment, for the purpose of see
ing General Butler, my future custodian, and interesting him
in my behalf. During his absence, however, I deemed it pro
per to address the foUowing to the War Office : —
¦'' Wtllards' Hotel, Sunday Eve'g, )
March 13, 1864. [
" Hon. E. M. Staxton,
"Secretary of War —
" Sir : xVfter a confinement of seven months, in the most
horrid and loathsome prison known to modern times, I find
myself, on my return to my own lines, the victim of a most
cruel, cowardly, and infamous accusation, emanating solely
from personal malevolence and petty jealousy. Arrested on
the very threshold of my happiness, I learn that I have been
released from one prison only to be immured in another.
" The charges against me, let them proceed from whom they
may, are of such a character as to require the most searching
investigation ; and my purport, in thus addressing you, is to
say that, whilst courting — nay, demanding — the most thorough
scrutiny, and placing myself unreservedly and uncomplain
ingly at the disposition of my government, I would most re
spectfully submit that, two years and a half service in the
field — facing the enemy — entitles me to a belief in my inno
cence, and the treatment due thereto, until the impartial ver
dict of a military tribunal may decide otherwise.
" Very respectfully,
'' Your obed't servant,
" JAMES M. SAXDERSOX,
"Lt. Col. C. S. V."
After a delay of forty-eight hours, I was waited upon by
Capt. W. T. Hartz, A. A. G. to Col. Hoffman, Commissary
¦General of Prisoners, who served upon me the following
order : —

" Office of tlx Gomm'y Gen. of Prisoners, )
Washington, D. C, March 15, 1864. f
¦" Lt. Col. J. M. Sanderson,
"Gomm'y Siib.U. S. v.,
Washington, D. C. —
"Colonel : By authority of the Secretary of War, you are
hereby relieved from your arrest, and permitted to return to
your home, on condition that you give j^our parole of honor
not to leave there without authority ; and that you will be
prepared to meet at any time or place any charges tliat may he
preferred against you by any officer who was a prisoner of war
with you in Richmond. " Very resjoectfully, &c.,
¦" W. HOFFMAN, Col. Third Inf 'y,
"Gomyn'y Gen. of Prisoners.^'
Readily accepting this condition, I signed the parole, and
immediately started for home. On reaching New- York, greatly
to my amusement and the astonishment of my friends, I learned
through the newspapers that I was then on my way to Fort
Warren. In order to correct this misstatement, I published the
following card, addressed to the different editors : —
"Pierrepont House, Brooklyn, )
March 18, 1864. j
" Sir : In order to relieve the minds of those who have a
real interest in my welfare, allow me to say that I have been
released from arrest; and am not on my way to Fort Warren
or any other prison.
"As regards tlie charges brought against me, my friends, by
their generous advocacy, have shown that they need no denial
thereof ; but, to the public at large, I would simply state that
they never had any foundation save in the base imagination
¦of one who, having proven himself recreant to his country
:and his God, is eminently capable of any falsehood calculated
to direct attention from his own shortcomings.
"Although a momentary sufferer by the action of the mili
tary authorities, I am, nevertheless, proud to serve a govern
ment which thus shows its determination to watch with jeal
ous eye the conduct of its officers,wherever they may be ; and
shall have every cause of complaint removed if I am afforded

8
an early opportunity of explaining my whole conduct as an
officer and a gentleman while in the hands of the enemy.
" Very respectfully, &c.,
" JAS. M. SANDERSON,
"Lt. Got. & G. 8. r."
Early in May, the Government officially promulgated the
exchange of all prisoners, to the 7th of that month. Having
periodically advised the Department to which I belonged (the
Subsistence) of my position and whereabouts, I nevertheless
considered it my duty to address the following communica
tion to the Adjutant General's office : —

"Pierrepont House, Beooklyn, )
May 16, 1864. j"

" Col. E. D. Townsend, A. A. G.,
" War Department, '• Wasliington, D. C—
" Colonel : Informed through the daily papers of this date
that an Exchange has been declared of all prisoners paroled
prior to May 7th, I hasten to lay before jovi the copy of an
order which condemns me to remain here indefinitely, awaiting
confirmation of charges which have no foundation save in the
base imagination of a cowardly slanderer.
" You will perceive by the wording of that order that I am
required to remain at my home, and hold myself ' prepared to
meet, at any time or place, any charges that may be preferred
against me l;iy any officer who was a prisoner of war with me
in Richmond.' Two months have now elapsed, and the bit
terest of my enemies are at this moment within the control of
the Government ; and as none of tliem have yet dared to add
perjury to their other crimes, the probabilities are that the-
war will be finished before I can establish my innocence or
prove by my future conduct the utter falsity of their insinua
tions. " Engaged in this contest as a matter of religion, and proud
of the commission I have the honor to hold, I do not desire to
remain in the rear during these stirring times, or retain that
commission as a sinecure as long as there is anything to be
done suited to my capacity or my strength ; and I, therefore,
most respectfully but earnestly request that I may be, at the
earliest practicable moment, either trusted or tried — feeling

9

fully conscious of my ability to prove by either test my loyalty
to my Government, and my devotion to the cause of unity and
Freedom. " Very respectfully, &c.,
"JAS. M. SANDERSON,
Lt. Gol. & G. S. V.
To this no response was given until the 18th June following,
when I saw in the Army and Navy Journal the announcement
of my dismissed. Stunned and humiliated for the moment by
this most summary and unjust proceeding, I again addressed
Col. Townsend, as follows : " 82 Wall St., New-York, )
June 18, 1864. \
" Col. B. D. Townsend, A. A. G.,
" Washington, D. C. —

" Colonel : I have the honor to state that, in the Army and
Navy Journal of this date, I find the following announce
ment : —
" ^Dismisscds,for the weelc. ending June 11, 1864. — Lieut. Col.
J.\MES M. Sanderson, Captain Commissary Subsistence, U. S.
Vols. : to date June 6, 1864.'
" My object in addressing you is, to inquire if this announce
ment is official ; and, if so, whether I have not the right to
Jcnoiv the charges on which this action of my Government is
based ?
" I would also respectfully call your attention to the fact
that I hold a commission as Major and additional Aid-de-Camp
dated July 15, 1862 ; and would ask if that commission is em
braced in the order dismissing me ? Awaiting your answer,
" I am, very respectfully, &c.,
" J. M. SANDERSON,
"Lt. Gol. & G. S. V:'
After another delay of ten days, a printed order reached me,
containing the following : —

10
Washington, June 23, 1864.

War Dep% Adft Gen'Vs Office, \

Special Orders, \
No. 217. j

[Extract.]

•' 7. — Paragraph 32, of Special Orders Xo. 201, from this
Office, dated June 8, 1864, dismissing Lieut. Col. James M.
Saxdeeson, Captain and Commissary of Subsistence, U. S.
Vols., is hereby amended, to read as follows : —
'¦ ' By direction of the President, Lieut. Col. James ^l. Sax-
DEESOX, Major, Additional Aid-de-Camp, and Captain Commis-
missary of Subsistence, U. S. Vols., is hereby dismissed the
service of the United States : to take efiect from June 6,
1864." " By order of the Secretary of War,
" E. D. tOWXSEXD,
"Asst Adft Geni:'
[Official,]
(^ia-ned) " E. D. TowxsExn.
"Ass't Adft Genl.
¦• To Mr. Jambs M. Saxderson,
"No. 82 Wcdl St.,
" Xew-York City."
This, although conclusive, was neither satisfactory nor re
sponsive. I determined, therefore, to visit Washington, and
ascertain, if possible, tho causes of this unmerited disgrace.
On my arrival, I called at the office of the Adjutant General,
where, after several applications, I received a flat refusal to
my request to be furnished with a copy of the charges against
me — being referred to a printed order, requiring all such de
mands to be made direct to the Secretary of War. In obedi
ence to this, I immediately wrote to Mr. Stanton a communi
cation — reciting, in brief, my services, my experiences, and
my desires. After a reasonable delay, receiving no reply, I
determined to refer the matter to his Excellencv, the Presi
dent of the United States ; and, having armed myself with a
ietter of introduction from the Hon. H. B. Anthony, Senator

11
from Rhode Island, (a copy of which I append,) I called at the
White House : — "Senate Ghamber, \
July 2, 1864. f
" To THE President of the United States —
" Sir : Lt. Col. James M. Sanderson informs me that he has
been summarily dismissed the service, without a trial and
without a knowledge of the chai'ges against him.
_ " I have long known Col. Sanderson — and have regarded
himas a man of high honor, of , unquestionable loyalty, and as
liaving rendered valuable service. I cannot beheve, in the
absence of evidence, that he has been guilty of any offence,
deserving of so harsh punishment ; and I hope he will be al-
.lowed an opportunity to answer charges against him.
" I am confident that your sense of justice will recognize
the reasonableness of this request, ivMcJi is all he asks. The
late Gen. Wadsworth, I know, had a high opinion of Col.
Sanderson, and I have heard him express it in emphatic
terms. "Very respectfully, " Your obed't serv't,
(Signed) "H.B.ANTHONY."
Three days I danced attendance in the waiting-hall of the
Presidential mansion ; but, owing to various circumstances,
without obtaining access to His Excellency. Thinking the
-letter might prove an "open sesame," I sent that in with my
¦card ; but, just at that moment, information being brought of
ths unexpected arrival of Gen. Early, C. S. A., I was obliged
to await the movements of this unwelcome visitor — even vol
unteering to assist in his reception. My services not being
needed, and the whole Government being too much occupied
in attending to the subject matter in hand, I concluded, by
advice of friends, to return home and " bide my time." In
the meanwhile, however, I deemed it my duty to keep myself
fresh in the memory of the Honorable Secretary of War, by
repeating my request for information and trial regularly every
month. I also addressed a communication to the Hon. C. A.
Dana, Assist't Secretary of War, with whom I had a personal

T2
acquaintance of years ; but from neither of these gentlemen^
could I obtain any reply.
One day, in October, walking through Broadway, I acciden
tally encountered my friend, Senator Anthony, who informed
me 'that he was the recipient of a letter from the War Depart
ment, referring to my matters. This, on his return home, hfr
sent me — and was as follows : — " War Department, }
Sept. 1864. \
'¦ Hon. H. B. Axthoxy,
"Sencde Ghamber —
"Sie: I am directed by the Secretary of War to acknow
ledge receipt of your cuunnunication to the President of the
United States— asking that James iL Saxdeeson, late Lt.Col.
and Comnilssarv Subsistence may be permitted to be heard in his-
own defence : and to inform you 'that the apphcation has heen
denied by the President. '' Verv respectfully,
¦ " JAMES A. HARDIE.
"GoL, (&€."
Undismiyed by this refusal, I again visited Washington,
and after several days delay, at length succeeded in obtaining.
an interview with the President, to ^vhom I recited my case m
as few words as possible, and showed him the letter sent to^-
Mr. Anthony. Endorsing it to the Judge-Advocate-General,
he requested me to call again. This, after an interview with
Judge Holt, I did, and was again referred to him with the
promise that if I could get the Judge to advise my being^ent
before a Military Commission, in icriting, it should be done.-
On stating this to Judge Holt, he positively refused to accede
to it, on the ground that " a report had already been made to<
the President in this case, in which the evident tendency was.
to such a reference, and the President would so find it if he.
would take the trouble to read it. This was the extent of his-
duty, and he would not go further. It was neither proper nor
respectful for him to dictate to the President Avhat course he
should pursue," and to all my intreaties he was deaf and un
moved. I again sought the President, and luckily obtained.

13
¦an interview without difficulty. On learning, however, the
'Opinion of the Judge-Advocate-General, he curtly informed me
that he could do nothing for me ; but finally, after an inter
view of half an hour, he reluctantly consented, and wrote an
•order sending me before the Military Commission, then in ses
sion at Washington. Obtaining from the Secretary of War
his immediate approval, I waited upon the Court thus se
lected, and found it composed of Brigadier-General John C.
'Caldwell, U. S. Vols., President, and Lieutenant-Colonel G. W.
Patten, U. S. A. (subsequently relieved by Colonel G. A. H.
Blake, 1st Cavalry,) his associate, and Captain G. H. Caldwell,
Recorder. By these gentlemen I was most courteously re
ceived, and most patiently heard, and as soon as they were
furnished with the papers in the case, they placed them at my
disposal. Then, for the first time, was I made acquainted with
the nature of the charges, and the names of my accusers, and
I have yet to decide which caused me the greater astonishment.
To be blackened by Streight, to be cilumniated liy Atwood,
was bad enough, yet could be borne; but to be dishonored at
the fiat of Neal Dow, was a degradation for which I was quite
unprepared. Asking from the Commission some authority, whereby to
enforce evidence from unwilling witnesses, I was astonished to
find no such power v.-as vested in them ; in fact, all they could
do was to hear such testimony as I could personally obtain, or
.my friends voluntarily furnish.
There being no limit assigned to the time for collecting my
testimony, I returned to my home, and immediately set myself
to work. Taking the statements of Neal Dow and Corporal
Taylor as a basis, and adding thereto aU the slanders and ca
lumnious reports that had come to my ears, I addressed to
such officers as I could recoflect or hear of from others, a series
of questions, the rephes to which I requested them to embody
in form of a consecutive narrative, made on honor, to be re
turned to me at their earliest convenience. In selecting these
parties, I was entirely uninfluenced by fear or favor. Every
man capable, in my opinion, of telhng tho truth was addressed;
¦and, as will be seen, some of them did not hesitate to state that

14
they had been my enemies, aud did not agree with me in sen
timent or opinion, during our imprisonment. In framing my
questions I was obliged to confine myself, in most cases, to
such matters as I had reason to think came within the imme
diate cognizance of the party addressed, and in every case I
was forced to rely upon my remembrance of their associations.
and surroundings ; for, Avhilst I feared nothing that any one
would truthfully state, of his own knowledge, as to my per
sonal conduct, I was obliged to be cautious in drawing out
opinions which might be construed unfavorably, owing to the
great difficulty of arriving at the true character of the circum
stances on which these opinions were formed. Face to face
with a witness,'it is not a difficult task to compel him to quali
fy his statements, even though he be most anxious to injure
you ; but men do not always care to unbosom their secret rea
sons for hostility or bias, unless compelled under the sanctity
of an oath, before two or more calm, unprejudiced, and scruti
nizing judges. Even Neal Dow would have paused before
enunciating many of the charges, so cheerfully narrated in his
letter, and Corporal T-aylor would have slunk like a whipped
dog, before reciting his own shame. Could I have been per
mitted to put all or any of my bitterest foes, Dow, Streight,
Atwood, or Tay' or, on the stand, and subjectthem to the ordeal
of a cross-examination, I would not have required the evidence
of a single friend to exonerate me from any of the charges
alleged, unless they had deliberately committed perjury. And
no greater triumph could have been afforded me than the satis
faction of drawing from Dow a history of his operations in
Louisiana ; a minute account of tliat celebrated wound received
(where ?) and a list of the contents of those tivo Urge heavy
trunks brought from Libby— to say nothing of the advantage
to miHtary science to be derived from the recital of Streight's
raid into Georgia: how he fought Forrest first, and then forced
hun toj buy his horses before surrendering ; with his peculiar
views on disciphne, and his experience in mounting infantry.
But lacking the means to obtain these ends, truth and strategy
must suffer, unless this pure philanthropist, and doughty hero,
moved to voluntary compliance, enlighten an ignorant people,
and an enquiring world.

15
Prom the list annexed of the number of letters addressed, it
will be seen that many officers have not responded. This is
due to more than one cause. In many cases the letters from
me to them miscarried, or worse yet, their rephes when made,
never reached me, — others again have procrastinated until
forgetfulness or shame rendered them unwilling, — others, in
fluenced no doubt by ill feeling towards me, and at the same
time fearing to exhibit an active enmity, have sullenly refrain
ed from all notice of my communication, knowing that I could
not compel a reply, whilst another and a meaner class, thinking
their testimony of more value than it really possessed, refused
to give any information unless compelled by an official order,
or a summons to attend in person.
To the procrastinating I extend my pity ; to the inimical,
my defiance ; whilst for the hide-bound I reserve my most un
mitigated contempt.
To the opposite "and nobler class, who have manfully and
consistently stood by me through good and evil report, by words
and actions, by public avowals and private intimations, I can
only return my warmest and sincerest thanks.
¦¦ All are not just, because they do no -wrong ;
But lie who will not wrong me when he may,
He is the truly Just."
The ordeal through which I have passed has been a severe
one. Conscious of having committed no wrong, I was quite
unprepared to find myself accused of crime. Condemned
without a trial, and punished before being heard, I found my
self placed in the anomalous position of being obliged to prove
myself innocent of charges that had never been substantiated.
Struck down by official zeal, in undue haste, I found, even in
the highest, a disinclination to revise or redress. When forced
by persistence and argument to grant a hearing, not the
slightest executive aid was afforded, nor the least authority of
the law permitted to support the right or confute the false.
Deprived of all pay, private means were drained to reform a
public wrong ; but in spite of every obstacle, I succeeded in
obtaining a mass of testimony on every point, save one, and

16
that of very minor importance, which in the month of Febru
arv was placed before the Commission. This evidence, with
my own statement and defence, form the subject matter of
this book ; and in putting it forth I have been guided simply
and solely by what I deem to be an imperative duty, not only
to invself and my friends, but especially to my posterity. Re
ceiving, from my ancestors a name untarnished, it is obliga
tory on me to transmit it unsullied.
Treason to one's country has, at least, the merit of grandeur
in its villain}- ; but treachery to one's comrades has not even
that poor excuse. It is craven, contemptible, and unmitigated
meanness — commending itself only to the pettiest thief and
most co-svardly calumniator. To devise such vileness is wor
thy only of the most debased ; to cliarge it, unsubstantiated,
on an innocent comrade, demands a still lower depth of degra
dation. The coward, who wronged his trusting country, by a
dislicmorable surrender; and tlie thief who despoiled his suffer
ing mates by a despicable larcen}- — may felicitate themselves
on such an achievement ; but, short of them, I know of no
other living thing capable of it. That I could be guilty of
such a crime, I am proud to say, never for one moment ob
tained credence in the mind of a single honorable man that
kncAv me.
With my enemies — of whom I have my fair share ; with
the enviou.s — ^vho are greedy of slander ; or with the world
at large — to whom I am quite unknown — so gross a calumny
has doubtless been received with avidity ; and, borne as it
wa^ to all quarters of the country by means of tho telegraph
and public journals, it must inevitably be treasured up against
my name for all time, and appear to my discomfort, or that of
my descendants, at most inopportune moments. Many, who
have heard and remembered the charge, will probably never
hear the exculpation : I, who never seek for popular favor,
nor a.sk. unoffered, any man's friendship, may personally de
rive no injury and suffer no discredit ; but those who come
after me may live in times ^^•hen, to hold office, may be deemed
hoiii.iable — and to them is due some record, whereby they
may refute the slanderer or silence a foe.

17
'• The honors of a name 'tis just to guard —
They are a trust but lent u», whioh we take ;
And should, in reverence to the donor's fame,
With oare transmit them down to other hands."
ilingled with the most heartfelt thanlcs to that High and
Mighty Power, who directs and shapes the minds of men, is
the just pride that the triumphant result 1 liave achieved is
due to my sole and unaided efforts. Fortunate in the friend
ship of hosts of worthy and influential gentlemen ; upheld,
during my year of terrible probation, by the strong moral
suj^port afforded me by their confidence and respect — not a
single man among them, save the Hon. H. B. Anthony, (and
he only for the purpose of procuring me a hearing,) has asked
or sought to obtain the slightest favor or privilege from the
Government or the Commission ; Imt, whilst I can truthfnlly
say — "Alone, I did it !"'
I gratefully confess that, to my dear friend and former com
panion in arms, George F. Noyes, Esq., I am deeply indebted
for advice, assistance, and good counsel. To him is due what
ever of order and proper classification may be found in my
defence ; whilst to his good taste and judgment may be as-
scribed the elimination of much bitterness and resentful fi-el-
ing towards my opponents.
To the Honorable Secretary of War I cannot refrain frora
expressing my acknowledgments for the A'ery complimentary
terms he has been pleased to employ in the M'ording of his
decision — almost compensating (if anything could) for the
year of suffering and humiliation I have endured.
To the gentlemen composing the Military Commission, I anx
under the deepest obligations for the unvarying kindness and
courtesy extended to me, and the patience with wliich they
heard and investigated the lengthy documents placed before
them. And, finally, to the officers of the Adjutant General's
office, from the highest to the lowest, with whom I came in
contact, I tender my thanks for the interest exhibited and the.
attention bestowed, at a moment and in a manner so oppor
tune and grateful.
Brooklyn, Nov., 1865.

18

OHAR&ES AND SPECIFICATIONS
Against James M. Sanderson, an officer in the service of the
United States, conve)-ed through the medium of a familiar
letter from a Brigadier General in the Volunteer Service to
n Major General iu the Regular Service.
Portland, April 4, 1864.
General, — I am this moment in receipt of your note of the
1st., inquiring if I have any information touching the conduct
of Lieut. Col. Sanderson, late a prisoner of war at Richmond.
I am informed < if a great deal of his conduct at Richmond,
and rook much intere'^t in if. because / thought he ought to be
dismissed from the service. The conviction among the offi
cers generully was, that he was disloyal, had little or no sym
pathy with our cause, but much for the rebels. On that point
J tliink Col. Streight is particularly informed.
Soon after I came to Richmond from Mobile in October, /
learnm mucli of his sayings and doings, and had therefore no
intercourse with him, though my quarters were very near
his. After my protest to Gen. Winder against the cruel treat
ment of our soldiers at Belle Island, I was not permitted to
visit them any more, and the business of distributing the
clothing to the soldiers — cdl of which was sent to me, — was put
into his hands. Thus for weeks he came into daily contact
with the soldiers there, and his conduct to them was always
barsh and cruel. Once a poor fellow applied for some clothes,
— he was very miserable with cold and hunger, — Sanderson
said : " Damn you, didn't I tell you if you came again I'd kick
you?'' He then turned him round, kicked him, and followed
him with repeated kicks.
Capt. Atwood, 16th Maine, Lieut. Col. Archer, and others
.saw this !

19
One poor fellow barefooted, asked for shoes, and received
curses instead. Capt. Atwood saw this. The next day but
one Capt. Atwood saw the same man brought out in a blanket,
with his feet badly frozen. I think he suffered amputation.
The Rebel lieutenant in charge remonstrated with Sander-
,SON for his harsh and cruel treatment of the soldiers in pre
sence of Atwood.
His intercourse with the soldiers was alwaj-^s with oaths, and
curses, and hitter revilings. Many of these poor fellows he
caused to be bucked and gagged. And this to half starved and
half frozen men, who had left friends, business, and comfortable
homes, in some cases luxurious homes, to help save their coun
try from being blotted out from the innp of nations. Many of
these men were educated gentlemen.
On one occasion, (a cold day,) a squad of men, half starved
'and pinched with cold, came out for clothes. At the head of
the line, to be served flrst, was a soldier — thin and blue, curled
up and shivering — his hands in his poor apologies for pockets.
With oaths and curses, Sanderson demanded why he did nob
take the position of a soldier ; and drove the poor wretch to
the tail of the line — to wait a long hour or two, as a punish
ment. Early last fall, wo had arrangements nearly perfected for
breaking out and capturing the city. We had about 1,000
officers and about 10,000 soldiers there, and were carelessly
guarded. Suddenly, we saw two pieces of artillery planted
near and bearing on us, and some companies of soldiers sta
tioned in front of the prison. Soon we learned that Col. San
derson had betrayed us to the Rebels. The indignation of
the officers was very great ; but it was finally allayed, upon
assurances that there was no intention of communicating the
secret beyond our own officers in the hospital. Of these mat
ters I am not personlly cognizant, but think Col. Streight will be
able to substantiate them.
After Col. Streight's unsuccessful attempt to escape, he was
put into a dark, damp, and cold cell under-ground, in irons,
and supplied only with corn bread and water. While he re
mained in that position. Col. Sanderson told some Rebel offi-

20
cers that Streight had organized a plan to break out, capture,
and destroy the city. This was told in presence of some of
our officers — of whom Capt. Atwood, I think, Avas one.
Lt. Col. Archer and Capt. Atwood were often with Col.
Saxdeesox, at Belle Isle, and saw a great deal of him.
The U. S. Sanitary Commission sent a great quantity of sup
plies to me, ior distribution; but the Rebels put them into the
hands of Col. Saxdeesox. Only a small part of them was dis
tributed ; I am confident that a part of them was given to the
Rebels by Col. Saxdeesox, besides what they stole ; and Col.
Saxdeesox appropriated to his own use a case of egg-nogg
that was marked for the hospital.
Col. Saxdeesox was constantly defending the Rebels, and
justifying them in their treatment of our soldiers — averring
that they were properly treated. Some of this I heard on one
occasion, and interposed with the facts at Belle Isle which ex
isted under his observation.
Col. Di Cesnola of the Fourth [New- York Cavahy — an offi
cer ofthe Sardinian Army, and thoroughly true to our serA'ice
andthe cause — saw, heard, and knew much of Col. Saxdeesox,
their quarters being ver}- near each other. Col. Ce.snola, for
the last t^\¦o or three months, held no communication whatever
with him — so certain vras his conviction of his infidelity to the
country. Col. Di Cesnola's address is — 130 Madison AA'ennc.
lie will gladly furnish any information in his possession, as he
believes the good of the service requires Col. Sax'^derson'k
dismissal from it.
I have written to Capt, At-\\'ood, at Gardiner, Maine — asking
him to send you immediately full details of everything Avithin
his knowledge on this subject, with the names of other wit
nesses, I am not acquainted with the address of Lt. Col.
Archer, but think he is of a Kentucky regiment.
My conviction was that Col. Sandeesox had no sympathy
with the Union cause. His conversation, so far as I knew of
it, indicated a decided hostility to the administration, and to
its measures ; and certainly he manifested no kindly feeling
towards our soldiers, who were suffering so much in their
country's service. By our officers, generally, at Richmond

21
Tie was regarded with distrust. Very few of them had any
intercourse with him, and great care was used to keep every
matter from his knowledge that we wished to keep from the
Hebels. I have thus answered your inquiries, in a familiar way, to
the best of my knowledge, tlio' I miglit add a great quantity
of similar matter. Very respectfully yours,
' NEAL DOW,
Brig. Gen'l.
Major-Gen'l. E. A. Hitchcock,
Comm'r for Exchange of Prisoners,
Washinffton, D. G.

MEMORANDUM OF
Statement made by Corp. W. A. Taylor, Oo. E, Sixth N. Y.
Cavalry.
Was taken prisoner at the battle of Bristoe Station, (or the
day after,) llth day of October, 1863 ; was sent to Richmond,
and was among the prisoners at Belle Isle. He wa,s at Belle
Isle when our Government, a few months since, sent supplies
of clothing and provisions to Union prisoners in Richmond.
Gen. Neal Dow was employed at first, with some otliers under
him, to distribute to the prisoners these supplies. He was
¦employed in this about four or five days, when Col. Cesnola
with one other officer, took the place of Gen. Dow, and con
tinued about two or three weeks : these officers issued neither
2)rovisions or clothing ; they made rolls of the men, showing
what they wanted. During much of this time, the boxes of
supplies sent by the Government were piled up on the Island,
and many of them were broken open at night, as he supposes,
by the Rebels — because they were outside of the enclosure
where the prisoners were confined. After this. Col. Sander
son was employed to deliver the supplies — assisted, from time
to time, by another Federal officer. He was employed two or

22
three hours a day, for some three months. During this time,
he issued no provisions at all. Col. Sanderson was very harsh
in his treatment of the men. During this time, he (Taylor)
was with Col. Sanderson, under his orders, assisting in the
delivery of the supplies of clothing.
Occasionally, a man or so would come out and ask for par
ticular articles ; and he has heard Col. Saxdersox repeatedly
use harsh language towards them, and order them away — call
ing them " dirty fellows ;" and, very often, he has seen him
kick them ; and he has heard him order some of the men to
be bucked. The men were suffering very much from cold
and the want of provisions. Col. Saxdersox seemed to have
no patience with them : he seemed to ute them more like
brutes than like men. The reason 'ivhy he ordered them to
be bucked, as he supposes, was that they had sold some of
their clothing for the purpose of obtaining food. A consider
able number of the Rebel guards were clothed in the United
States' clothing, much of wbich was obtained from the Union.
soldiers — as he (Taylor) supposed, in exchange for provisions ;
but not all of it, for he saw Col. Saxdeesox give some of it
away to the Rebels — especially did he see the Colonel give
to one man an overcoat.
Out of the coffee and sugar sent by the Federal Govern
ment, the prisoners received coffee and sugar twice — -I mean,
for two mornings, and no more ; the balance was otherwise
disposed of. He (Taylor) saw a Rebel Quarter-master cross
the river with a quantity of the public supplies, in a boat
marked for Fredericksburg. Is persuaded in his own mind
that a large quantity of such supplies were consumed by the
Rebels, and saw the guard eating them.
Adds, that he saw Col. Saxdeesox very intimate with some
of the Rebel officers, and appeared to have private conversa
tions with them ; but did not know what passed upon those
occasions. Have seen Col. Saxderson standing with Rebel
officers — when some of the Union prisoners would approach,
with their hands in their pockets, in rags and tatters ; and
Col. Sanderson, instead of commiserating their condition,
would seem to make sport of them, and order them to take

23
their hands out of their pockets Corp. Taylor thinks that
Serg. Hill could also make a statement similar to the above,
for he was employed with himself in delivering clothing under
Col. Sanderson's order : the Sergeant belongs to Co. K, same
regiment. The above is a true statement —
W. A. TAYLOR, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Washington City', April 1, 1864.

STATEMENT of Lt. Col. J. M. SANDERSON.
I hereby state, on ho)ior, that on the 20th day of Jul}-. 1863,
whilst marching from the field of Gettysburg, Pa., into Vir
ginia, I was requested by Major Wm. Russell, Jr., Acting
Ass't Adj't General, of the First Corps, to accompanjr him in
search for a ford over a deep, swift stream, called Goose Creek.
Having obtained permission from the Major Gen'l Comm'g,
John Newton, we proceeded on our mission. The first cross
ing we examined, proving too strong and too deep for either
artillery or infantry, we retraced our steps, and halting the
column, ere turning out of the main road, set forth again to
seek another which was represented as being superior. After
a detour of nearly five miles, we finally reached the object of
our search, and while the Major was writing a despatch to
send back to the General, I crossed the ford, for the purpose
of testing it. Finding it all that could be desired, I returned
to my companion, who had sent off his message, and was qui
etly watering his horse near the middle of the stream, the
only remaining orderly being near him. Reporting to him the
result of my investigation, and debating as to whether we
should await the arrival of the Corps, or proceed on our road,
we were startled by an unearthly yell, which, as we soon dis
covered, came from a band of guerillas, who, under cover of
the noise arising from the mill-dam, and hidden by the thick
foliage of the trees which fringed the road on the opposite
side of the creek, had stolen upon us unawares. Being twelve
in number and armed to the teeth, resistance on our part wa»

24
in vain. Having disarmed us, we were carried to Culpepper,
and subsequently taken to Richmond. Here we were placed
in the celebrated and infamous den known as " Libby Prison,"
with about six hundred other Federal officers. At this period,
the space allotted to this class of prisoners of war. comprised
three lofts, each 100 by 40 feet, on the third or upper floor,
and one on the second of similar dimensions. The latter was
occupied mostly by officers of Milroy's command, the apart
ment over it being set apart for Col. A. D. Streight, and his
immediate companions, with some few cavalry officers taken
during the fight in June. These two rooms constituted one
department, known as the " Western," and were for a time
under Col. Streight's command, although he Vv^as not the rank
ing officer. The other two lofts were mainly devoted to the
prisoners taken at the battle of Gettysburg and subsequently,
most of them belonging to the Army of the Potomac, These
constituted the " Eastern DejDartment," and were under the
direction of Col. Charles W. Tilden, of the 16th Maine, the
ranking officer. Into this section my companion and myself
were turned loose, by the prison official, who kindly advised
ns to select the softest plank we could find, and make ourselves
¦;omfortable. Immediately on our arrival we were placed in
fiill knowledge of the nature of our prison fare, by scores of
irilling relators, v»'ho I will do them the justice to say, on that
point did not exaggerate. On making a reconnoisance the
next day, we soon discovered that the best portion of our
prison-house was reserved for the residents in Streight's room,
every one of them having the undivided half of a liiuk, with
allthe privileges and stock thereunto appertaining. As no other
apartment possessed seats of any kind, and as a grateful south
western breeze visited it at almost every hour of the day and
night, it became in a measure, the lounging hall of the heat-
oppressed and heart-sick prisoner.
In this department they enjoyed another privilege, which,
np to the time of my arrival, had been denied the Eastern
section, that of preparing their own food. A few days after,
however, this defect was remedied, and stoves being placed at
one end of the centre apartment, rations of meat, rice, and

25
beans, were served us uncooked. Luckily for my comrades,
but unfortunately for me, as the result has proven, my repu
tation as a hotel-keeper and amateur cook being known, I was
solicited to superintend the culinary and messing arrange
ments, and teach my brother officers how to prepare their
food. Having pledged me active co-operation, and proper
subordination, I accepted this very arduous position. The
company being divided into twelve messes of from 18 to 20
each, I apportioned each stove, there being but three, to four
messes, allowing one hour to prepare breakfast, and three
hours for dinner. The tables also were parcelled out, so as to
prevent interference, or collision between the various parties.
The utensils being limited to our most primitive necessities,
the least interruption or delay in preparing the meals caused
much inconvenience and wrangling. Avery short experience
convinced me that but little dependence was to be placed on
the forbearance or courtesy of my fellow-prisoners, one to the
other, and feeling some pride in carrying out successfully the
task assigned me, I was forced to obtain from the prison
authorities the official approval of my regulations, which were
carefully digested, clearlj) written, and conveniently posted,
so " that he that runs might read." Thus fortified, I took my
stand, among the earliest, by the fire, and "from early dawn
to dewy eve," for nearly three months, was ever to be found
at my post, teaching the uninformed, advising the willing,
directing the erring, and curbing the wrong-headed. The one,
before salting his soup, sought me ; the other, doubtful as to
his progress, took counsel with me ; the third, demurring at
robbing his mixture of its traditionary grease, disputed my
philosophy ; whilst the fourth, seeking only his own comfort,
tested my endurance, and endeavored to break through my
¦discipline. Every new-comer served an apprenticeship under
my hands ; and every difficulty was subjected to my arbitra
ment ; and for a time so well did this system work, that the
Western department, which had formerly been the object of
our envy, suddenly became emulous of our comfort, and sought,
by adopting our system, to rid themselves of a spirit of insub
ordination, which threatened to sweep away all authority, but
that of force.

26
Some opposition being evinced, and an unanimous invitation
being indispensable to my acceptance, a meeting was called,
at which the officers comprising the smaller messes, foremost
among them Col. Streight, succeeded in interposing so many
obstacles that the whole thing was abandoned in disgust, and
disorder and selfishness reigned thenceforth triumphant. Sub
sequent to this, during a political discussion between Col.
Streight and another officer, the former made a most outra
geous statement, which he called upon me, an uninterested
listener, to endorse. This I not only declined, but even re
fused to believe. Infuriated by this unexpected rebuff, he
forgot what little manners he was possessed of, and loudly
branded me '' as a knave or a fool.' Somewhat puzzled as to
what course to pursue, under the circumstances, with such a
burly and brutal antagonist, I remained perfectly silent for a
few minutes, until emboldened by my supposed cowardice, he
repeated the offensive epithets three times. Unable to endure
this longer I quickly rose from my seat on tho floor, and ap
proaching him as near as was possible, made this reply :
" Col. Streight there is a certain amount of respect due from
my rank to yours, which I am always ready to accord, but you
have now passed the limit beyond which no man can go with
impunity ; I therefore proclaim you a liar and a coward !"
From that day to this no other words have passed between
this officer and myself. Generally condemned, as far as I
could learn, by every one whose opinion was worth having,
Col. Streight omitted no opportunity of abusing and vilifying
me behind my back, all of which I treated with silent con
tempt. At length, however, an event occurred which enabled him
to regain his waning popularity, and turn the current of popu
lar opinion against me and my immediate friends. Taking
advantage of the chronic complaints against the quantity of
food issued us by our keepers, he addressed a letter to Gen.
Winder, asserting that we were in the daily receipt of but
half a pound of bread,, and a quarter of a pound of meat—
which, he claimed, was totally inadequate to support life.
Summoning the Commissary of the prison (a Mr. Burnham,

27
who had then and subsequently given us many evidences of
his sympathy) before him, tho notorious Winder demanded
why he had defrauded the prisoners of one-half the rations
furnished by the Confederate Government. Indignantly de
nying the charge, Mr. Burnham promised to produce evidence
of his honesty ; and, on returning to the prison, notified us
that thereafter we must select an officer from each department
in whom we liad confidence — whose duty it should be to see
the rations weighed, and superintend personally their transfer
to the officers' quarters.
From the " Eastern department" was selected a Lt. Jones ;
whilst, from the " Western," was chosen a Capt. McHollick,
an officer belonging to Streight's oivn regiment. These gentle
men, thenceforth, presented themselves at the Commissary
Department, every morning, with a requisition for eighteen
ounces of bread and half a pound of fresh meat, for every
officer or individual confined in the prison. In their presence
the scales were tested; the required amount of food furnished;
and its transfer to the upper rooms, by agency of negroes,
(also prisoners of War,) made under their supervision. As
anxious as any one for an increase of rations ; and believing,
in common with mj^ comrades, that we were not receiving our
full quota, I curiously awaited the first supply nnder the new
order of things ; and was proportionately disappointed in
finding the amount the same. Closely c^uestioning the new
Commissaries, I was satisfied in my own mind that we had
erred, especially when each day's supplies confirmed the fact.
Many of the officers, however, stoutly contended we were re
ceiving more ; but they were Hot in a position to judge *
whilst I, having occasion to see the exact quantity delivered
to each mess and subsequently put into the soup pots, could
speak "by the book." At length, a proper time having
elapsed, Mr. Burnham demanded from the Commissaries a cer
tificate to the effect that he had not only delivered the exact
amount as required, during the time specified, but that (as far
as they could judge) he had done so for some time previous.
This they not only acceded, to, but went further — too far, in
my opinion : by saying that there was a general satisfaction.

28
among the prisoners on the subject of their treatment by all
the officers attached to the prison. This certificate, thus
worded, was brought up stairs by Mr. Burnham to Col. Til
den and myself, in our official capacity as commandant of the
room and director ofthe kitchen. Mr. Burnham being a per
fect stranger to me, of course I had no bias in his favor ; and,
after reading Lt. Jones' certificate, frankly professed my wil
lingness to endorse it as far as I was personally concerned,
but did not feel justified in speaking for any other officer ;
and Col. Tilden, when referred to, coincided with me. Anx
ious to obtain our signature, he finally said, we might put it
in any shape most agreeable to ourselves. Thereupon, we
added these words : " In endorsing our approval, we desire
to state distinctly that we speak for ourselves, individually
and personally, and not for any other officer in the prison."
Witli this paper he sought Col. Cesnola, for the purpose of ob
taining his approval to another one drawn up by Capt. Mc
Hollick (Streight's own man), in which the " lie direct" was
given to his commander. This rather alarmed Cesnola, who
exhibited it to another officer — a friend of Streight (as, at that
moment, there existed a coldness between Streight and Ces
nola.) By him the paper was shown to Streight himself, who
immediately requested a copy — not only of that, but of the
one given by .Jones, and endorsed by Tilden and myself: but
Cesnola, on being referred to, declined to permit it, unless a
pledge was given that no use should be made of it to the dis
paragement of Tilden and myself; nor, in fact, should it be
exhibited without his fCesnola's) consent. This pledge, Ces
nola assured me, was given, and the copying permitted. On
the following day, after the reading of the Lihhy Glironicle,
(a weekly paper, published hut not printed) these documents
were publicly read to an unusually large crowd convened for
the occasion ; and an announcement was made that, on the
following day, a meeting would be held " for the purpose of
passing resolutions condemnatory of the course of Col. Tilden
and Col. Sax'deesox."
As stated, the meeting took place. Its officers were Major
Bates, soth Ills., Chairman ; Major Harry White, 67thPenna.,

29
Secretary ; Lt. Col. Jere Williams, 25th Ohio ; Dr. Spencer,
(Streight's surgeon,) and Capt. B. F.Fisher, committee on res
olutions. The speakers were Lt. Col. Irvin, 10th N. Y. Cav'y,
Major Henry, 5tli Ohio Cav'y, and the much-injured Streight.
As I was not present, I am unable to speak knowingly of the
proceedings, but from conversation we learned that Col.
Streight made remarks of a most personal, abusive and threat
ening character ; speaking iu most discourteous terms of the
writer, and offering to fight one or both of the parties
assailed. The cause of all this ire, as far as we were able to
discover, arose, not from our making a false statement, but in
our proving Col. Streight to have done so ; and the ground
assumed by some of our opponents was, that we were not jus
tified in rescuing an enemy's officer from a dilemma, even though
he ivas in the right ! To this we simply replied, " that, on be
ing asked a straightforward question, we could only give a
straightforward answer ; and for one, I never feared to put in
writing, what I had deliberately expressed orally. As re
gards an enemy's officer, where Justice and Truth were con
cerned, I recognized neither friend nor foe ; and before my
fealty to my country I owed an allegiance to my God. I was
a man before I was a soldier, and had always been taught,
that ''justice should be done though the heavens fall!"
Among the dissentients to our course, the most determined,
and at the same time the most dignified, were Lt. Col. Wil
liams, Major Bates, Major Henry, and Capt. Fisher, between
all of whom and myself there sprung up a coldness which
lasted for some time, but as time wore on, and our comforts
were increased, explanations took place, and reconciliation
ensued. As a good deal of feeling very justly existed in re
o-ard to Lt. Jones' statement as to the satisfaction of his com-
rades towards the officers of the prison, the paper con
taining this expression was returned to us, and another,
doing full justice to Mr. Burnham, personally, and to the con-
duet ofthe Go7ifederacy generally, ^as substituted, and this "tem
pest in a teapot" subsided; although a considerable feehng of
uneasiness prevailed for a long time as to the course I should
pursue when released, the attention of the moving spirits be^

30
ing especially called to the 26th Art. of the Revised Army
Regulations. During all this time my duties as Culinary Director were
constantly increasing, every new comer, or " fresh fish," being
turned over to me for instruction. At last a vast augmenta
tion of our numbers took place, from the unlucky field of
Chickamauga, giving ub some three or four hundred officers
additional, every one of whom was thrust into our quarters. For
a day or two all regulations were set at nought, and disorder
and confusion prevailed everywhere, but increased accommo
dations having been furnished us, I undertook to regulate the
cooking department of the strangers, and in less than a week
"" all went merry as a marriage bell," barring of course the
usual amount of bickering and ill temper. But this increased
amount of work was rather too severe forme, and I was finally
forced to succumb to a violent cold caught in the performance
of my duties. For a few days I laid down in my quarters, on
the floor, without the slightest medical attention, or necessary
comforts ; and in reply to my application to be sent to the hos
pital, was informed that it was so full, that it was impossible to
accommodate as many as absolutely required to be there. But
at length my friends became alarmed, and I was permitted to
stagger down tothe building, employed for that purpose, about
a quarter of a mile below us. On arriving here, sick and ex
hausted, there was no bed ready for me, and it was only after
a distressing delay, that I was enabled to secure one, (I men
tion these things merely to show the great consideration I was
held in by the enemy.) Into this I immediately plunged, and
remained almost senseless and motionless for thirty-six hours.
On the second day, finding myself better after my long and
comfortable repose, I rose and dressed rayself, and for a short
time conversed with my brother officers. I then prescribed
for myself, took my own medicines, which I always carry with
me, and again returned to my bed. The surgeon in charge,
Dr. Siball, after examining me, and hearing what I had done,
declined to interfere with my own treatment, and passed on.
The next morning after the proper operation of my medicine,
I found myself so much better that I concluded to return to

31
my quarters at the prison, influenced thereto by several rea
sons, — first, because I found the groanings and distresses of
Tny fellow-prisoners, both officers and privates, all occupying
the same building, ¦were so terrible as to depress my spirits, —
second, because the accommodations afforded the officers were
so limited, as to prevent full justice being done to the really
sick, — and third, because all the operations of nature had
to be performed in a filthy and disgusting place, in common
with the private soldiers, who were by no means particular as
to appearances or cleanliness. Making up " my kit," and dis
tributing among the most needy, my stock of provisions, of
which I had laid in a goodly store, I informed the surgeon of
miy desire to leave, and greatly against his advice, persisted in
my determination, returning to my prison quartera on the
third day.
During the few hours that I found myself sufficiently re
covered to converse with my comrades, I related to a few of
the prominent ones, Col. Powell, Col. Monroe Nichols, Capt.
Skelton, and perhaps one or two others, some of the incidents
of our prison life, and disclosed to some of them the outlines
of a proposed plan of escape, which had grown into propor
tions from a suggestion made by myself, when it was expected
that we should be removed from Richmond to Salisbury, N.
C, owing to the scarcity of food in the former city. This
idea had seized me shortly after my difficulty with Col. Streight,
and having before my eyes a healthy fear of the penalties
attached to a conspiracy to escape, when loss of life might
eventuate, (see order No. 100,) and having no confidence in
the warm feelings of my Southern friends towards me in case
of conviction, I acted with that circumspection necessary to
one who plots with his head in his hand.
Believing that Streight and his immediate associates had no
personal love for me, and fearing also the enmity of certain
men in my own quarters, whose insubordinate conduct and
character had more than once brought them under my official
displeasure, I stated my views very secretly and very cha
rily. To Cols. Tilden, Cesnola, and Wilson, Lt. Cols. Rogers,
Cavada, Walker, Spofford, Henry, and Hayes, and Majors

32
Russell, Henry, White, and Xeeper, I was frank and open,
leaving to them to elaborate the details, and select their aids.
As originally devised, the plan was this: Selecting from the
great mass a few brave and prudent men to act as field and
line officers, the remainder were to be recruited, under the
seal of secrecy, as non-commissioned officers and privates ;
each captain selecting his compan}' from his own asso
ciates, disclosing to each as much of the plan as would be
deemed necessary to insure his hearty co-operation, and wil
lingness to drill punctually and obej' orders. Having an ex
aggerated opinion of Col. Cesnola at that moment, he was
invited to take the leadership, whilst Col. Tilden and the
other ranking officers were to constitute the line. I, myself,
volunteering as a high private under Tilden. In the midst
of our deliberations, however, the battle of Chickamauga
occurred and swelled by its results the number of our com
rades to about a thousand, while the sum total of the rank
and file amounted to over ten thousand, one third of which
were confined in tobacco warehouses directly opposite to us.
As soon as we became sufficiently acquainted, the leading
spirits of the Western Armj^ among them that gallant and
lamented officer, Col. Bartleson, the pluck ey and nettlesome
Lefavour, the accomplished Carleton, and the indomitable
Rose were taken into confidence, and, the question of removal
being d_ropped, it was proposed to give a more extended
character to our enterprise, and attempt with the aid of our
own government, a feat of arms and strategy which should at
once give us both liberty and renown. Being under the im
pression that there was a spy among us — a not impossible
event — all our consultations resolved themselves into tete-a-tete
interviews, Col. Cesnola being the common medium, to him
being intrusted our various suggestions for the purpose of
enabling him to elaborate and perfect the necessary details.
Having obtained a map of the city, and learning the exact
depots of arms and artillery, the places of rendezvous of the
militia, the residence of the arch-fiend Davis, and his head-
devils, Benjamin, Seddon, and others, and of the different
members of Congress, Wien it should beconvened,v,'e cast about

33
to find means to apprise our own government of our inten
tions. At this juncture a rebel officer came to the prison and'
obtained, in exchange for himself the release of a federal
officer of corresponding rank, he being a Lieutenant-Colonel
on the staff' of John Morgan. By right Lt. Col. Von Schra
der, Lt. Col. J. F. Boyd, or myself were the only parties
entitled to this exchange, but by some means Lt, Col. Irvin,
of the 10th N. Y, Cavalry, was fortunate enough to be select
ed, and to him, as I learned from Cesnola, was confided the
details of our plan, to be narrated to the government. In the'
meantime we quietly proceeded with our arrangements,, and
awaited some indications of the acquiescence of the military
authorities at home.
During this interregnum it was that I was taken sick and
carried to the hospital. The next or succeeding day after my
return to my quarters, while still very weak and far from well,,
I was told by Col. Cesnola that Streight had been occupying
himself in devising a plan of escape by which he proposed to
carry off all the honors, deeming our scheme entirely too
slow and too old fogyish for his ardent and enthusiastic tem
perament. The minutite of his proposed exodus were simple
and few. On a fixed night — shortly to arrive — the City Bat-
tallion, a military organization which had had charge of us
heretofore, being withdrawn for a limited space for the pur
pose of improving themselves in drill and camp dutj^, their
places being filled by Pickett's Division of veteran troops, the
heroes of a hundred fights, — he and his chosen band were to
break from the prison, overpower the guard,, and, if strong
enough, fire the city, and take the chances of capturing it, or
of making their escape into our own lines. Taking into con
sideration that the city was full of militia ; and that four thou
sand regulars were in convenient distance ; that his one or
two hundred heroes had no organization and no arms ; with
every avenue to our lines carefully guarded, and the means of
concentrating the various regiments instantaneous ; and with
nothing to' occupy their attention but the exciting chase after
a hundred or two half-starved Yankee prisoners — I could not
but regard such an idea as emanating from none but a lunatio

34
or a braggadocio, and did not hesitate to pronounce it murder
ous and fool-hardy ; and was greatly relieved to learn that not
even his most cherished associates were willing to assist in
such an enterprise, obliging him to fall back upon his subal
terns, of whom he had contrived to gain over to his plan not
over a hundred, or a hundred and fifty at the utmost.
Whilst discussing the merits of this scheme we were startled
by observing an unusual commotion in the streets, an extra
number of guards being posted around our prison, and at least
two pieces of artillery being placed so as to command the
exits. More severity was also used in carrying out the prison
regulations, no one, for a time, being permitted to approach
the windows. At first we were inclined to suppose that our
long-talked-of removal was to be effected. Then a rumor
pervaded our quarters that the citizens of Richmond had
declared their intention of opening our prison doors and set
ting us free, on the ground that we were raising the price of
subsistence so high that they and their families were on the
point of starvation. ,\.fter two days' wonderment and alarm
the extra guard were suddenly withdrawn, the artillery quietly
removed, and everything jogged on as usual. And then it
was, for the first, we learned that we had perfected a plan for
escape which had been betrayed by one of our own number.
This startling intelligence was communicated either by Mr.
Higgins, Winder's private secretary, to Col. Cesnola, or by
the notorious Dick Turner to Col. Streight, I am unable to
say which. All this time it must be remembered that I was
an invalid, having only a morning or two previous to the
event narrated above fallen down in a fainting fit whilst stand
ing up in line for " roll call." A day or two after things had
resumed their usual current, and we were racking our brains
to discover the traitor among us, Cesnola came to me and
taking me aside informed me that Streight had charged me in
his own room with being the "guilty one." Furiously indig
nant, in spite of my weakness, I desired to confront the foul
slanderer at once, but in view of the utter impossibihty of my
taking any suitable vengeance, or of obtaining any redress
from my brutal and vulgar calumniator, I was perforce obliged

35
to adopt Cesnola'i advice and leave to timo the mode of ob
taining satisfaction. I frankly acknowledge that this calumny
^exercised me greatly, and I could not but blame myself for
liaving spoken at all on the subject while in the hospital,
believing, as I conscientiously did, that some eaves-dropper
or "weak-kneed brother" had over-heard my disclosures to my
l)rother officers there, and had communicated the meagre de
tails afforded to the confederates. Everyday and every hour
this thought haunted me, and I spared no effort to discover
if such could have been the case, but I was assured by all
that I conversed with, who had spent any time in the hospital-
that every one of the attendants, including the Ward Master,
¦with whom I had had a few minutes conversation, were all
federal prisoners, and as anxious to have such a scheme sue
•cessfully carried out as myself. There was one person, how
ever, of whom some suspicion was entertained — a Mr. Ver-
'million of Keokuk, Iowa, a citizen clerk or sutler — but as no
substantial proof at tlmt timo was presented, I hesitated to
affix such a damning crime to his charge, especially as I knew
•him to be a friend of one of the most gallant officers I ever
met, Capt. R. F. Skelton, and moreover could not remember
of having conversed with him on any subject. After a few
-weeks, this incident being driven from my mind by other and
.equally exciting rumors, died out, and as the contre-femps had
no marked effect upon our real plans, it was only remembered
as one of a series of slanders gotten up against me by the
.same clique.
About this time, however, an incident occurred which
afforded my enemies a splendid chance to exercise their
vocation. Capt. Atwood, a member of my mess, and the
.source of much annoyance to me by his captious and quarrel
some disposition, being constantly engaged in some petty and
contemptible squabble of which I was compelled to be
arbiter, called my attention to the conduct of a young man
belonging to one of the loyal Virginia regiments. On learn
ing the facts I endeavored to smooth the difficulty, but as At
wood demanded his rights, and as his antagonist was clearly
in the wrong by occupying at an improper time a place on a

36
stove belonging to another mess, I was forced to act in the-
matter, my indisposition to do so willingly arising entirely
from the fact that x^twood was a member of my own mess,
and auy decision I should make in his favor would be deemed
partial. Having explained his error to the culprit, I courte
ously requested him to remove his vessel and await his turn
on his own stove. This he flatly refused, being encouraged
thereto by a number of his intimates drawn there by the
report of the difficulty, and when I attempted to take the
kettle from the fire myself he threatened me with a case
knife, which he displayed with much flourish and great em
phasis. Not greatly terrified hy this sudden apparition of"
deadly iron, but at the same time quite unwilling to engage
in a personal encounter with one so much my junior in rank
and age, he being a second lieutenant just out of his teens, I
released my hold on the offending pot and drawing my watch
from my pocket, informed my excited opponent that I would
give him justj^t'e minutes to decide whether he would remove
it himself or go down to the cells. " Will you, send me to the
cells ¦?" was his rather astonished cj^uestion. " I certainly will,
unless that kettle is removed," was my C[uiet reply. " You
don't dare do it !'' shouted he, shaking his fist in my face.
" That, Sir, is simply a question of time." ' If you do,'" was
his response, ' 1 will have your h'/ari's blood ,'" — I did. At the
expiration of the five minutes, the kettle being still there, I
notified the Inspector of the Prison, and demanded that my
authority should be sustained by making an example of this
offender. Instantly acceding to my request, I asked him to
carry this domestic Rebel down stah's, introduce him to the
cells, and then inform him that having the power to inflict
this punishment I merely desired to convince him of that
fact, as this was his first offence, but that a recurrence of such
insubordination would inevitably earn for him a night's lodg
ing therein. This, as I afterwards learned, was done ; but
not exactly in conformity with my programme, Mr. Turner
taking to himself all the credit of the leniency, leaving for me
all the odium.
For a few days, of course, the indignation of this much in-

37
Jtired young gentleman and his friends was perfectly intensa
— a committee of them waiting upon me for the purpose of
ascertaining if I deemed such conduct loyal. To which I
"very soberly replied that I did ; whereat their astonishment
"was marvelously increased, and only found vent in an empha
tic demand that I should resign. This I very respectfully
•declined to do, on the ground that I had been invited to fill
the position by a very large majority of the officers in the
Department ; and I did not feel called upon to obey the re-
¦quirements of a dissrderly and contemptible minority, I also
assured them that I felt so well satisfied with the result of
'this action that it was my determination hereafter to resort to it,
'whenever circumstances would demand its application. Upon,
'this the interview closed, and I was permitted to rest in peace;
'but on reflection, finding that I was exhausting my patience
"and health, and increasing the number and virulence of my
'enemies needlessly, I concluded to turn over the reins of
power to my constituents and permit them to select a succes
sor of more pliant character, but up to the moment of my
leaving they had failed to secure so great a treasure, or in
fact to find 'any one Avilling to assume the command I had
relinquished. The next item of interest in our prison life arose from the
reception of a large amount of subsistence and clothing sent
!by the United States government and the Sanitary and
'Christian Commis.sions for distribution to our sick and snffer-
'ing soldiers. Brigadier General Neal Dow being the ranking
•officer — he having returned from ]\lobile prison .-ibout the l^dth
>or 28t.li of Octoljcr — all this material was addressed to him,
and having selected one or twn officers to accompany him and
aid in theis.suing, he v.-as taken over to the Lland and per-
'mitted to use his own judgment in its distribution. How
Hong he enjoyed this privilege I am unprepared to state posi-
tiveiy, as I busied himself neither with his incomings or out
goings , " his sayings or doings," but the term was short, not
over three days at the utmost. The cause of his being- re
lieved was rumored to be an ill-advised and unfortunate pro-.-
test to Gen. Winder on the subject of rations, to which the

38
only response he received was an invitation to mind his own
business, and an order placing three other gentlemen in his
stead. This Committee consisted of Col. C. P. di Cesnola,
4th N. Y. Cav., Lt. Col. J. F. Boyd, Chief Q. M. 20th Corps,
Lt. Col. A. Von Schrader, A. I. G. 14th Corps, to whom was
assigned the distribution of the clothing only, the subsistence
and Sanitary supplies being placed in charge of the rebel
officers exclusively.
For three weeks everything nnder the direction of these
gentlemen went on swimmingly. Col. Boyd, one of the most
systematic of Quarter-masters, prepared blanks for his col
leagues, who, with the aid of clerks, selected from the prison
ers themselves, soon fiUed them up with the name, rank, com
pany, regiment, and condition qf the clothing oi every man on
the Island, in order to see how far the stock on hand would
enable them to go in distributing to the more needy the vari
ous articles most required. Hardly had this been achieved,
when Col. Cesnola, by some interference with the action of
the authorities, brought down upon his head their ire and dis
pleasure, which evinced itself by a notification that his ser
vices would no longer be needed. This intelligence was
brought him by his friend, Mr. Higgins, who gave him the
privilege of naming his successor. His first choice, I think^
was Col, Tilden, who declined, in consequence of being in
command of a department, which he did not care to relin
quish. I was then solicited to take the position, and also de
clined ; but, at the earnest request of Col. Cesnola, and the
rather persistent solicitation of Major Turner, the Command
ant of the Prison, who informed me that my name had been;
uniformly suggested by my brother-officers " as the one most
fitted by temper and capacity" (I quote his own words) " for
this particular duty ;" and as it was for the interest of my
o-wn Government that it should be properly done, he did not
think me justified in refusing. Unable to assign any satisfac
tory reason for a further objection, I was obliged to accept,
with the proviso that if, after a trial, I shouldbe dissatisfied,
I would be permitted to retire. This being acceded to, on tha
21st day of November. I entered upon the duties.

39
After visiting the Island once in company with Col.Von Schra
der, we applied for the addition of another officer, and, at my
suggestion, Lt. Col. Hunter, ofthe 123d Ohio Vols., was added
to the committee, and the following division of labor was
agreed to : — Col. Boyd was charged with the accounts, myself
with the distribution of the clothing on the Island, and Cols.
Von Schrader and Hunter with the examination and enrol
ment of the prisoners confined in the warehouses and hospitals
in the City of Richmond. Capt. Chamberlain, of the 123d
Ohio, was subsequently added to the committee without my
knowledge or consent. After a short experience in the details
of my labor, I found it impossible to proceed without a com
panion, and accordingly asked and obtained permission to take
with me Lt. Col. F. F. Cavada, of the 114th Penn. Vols. In
this selection I was greatly guided by the fact of Col. Cavada
being an accomplished gentleman and suffering greatl}^ from
depression of spirits caused by long imprisonment. His du
ties were simply to examine the letters passing between the
officers and the men, and vice versa, in order to carry out a
stipulation entered into with Lt. Bossieux, requiring us to de
liver to him any one containing improper or contraband ex
pressions. This arrangement was effected in order to expe
dite letter writing — the number passing between the two-
points averaging from fifty to one hundred daily — the reading,
of which proving too tedious for the lieutenant, many of them.
were thrown aside and never reached their destination. Trust
ing to my honor to carry out this agreement in good faith, he
never thereafter took the trouble to open any communication
unless his attention was specially invoked — an event, I ant
sorry to say, of too frequent occurrence, in spite of the numer
ous cautions given bj^ me to my fellow-prisoners. The Colonel
was also sometimes called upon to relieve me in the issuing of
clothing, but not often. After five days co-operation, however,
this gentleman was obliged to resign the position, in conse
quence of ill-health ; and my next friend and fellow-captive.
Major William Russell, Jun., was invited to take his place.
He accompanied me for five or six days, when he, too, suc
cumbed to a cold, and fell ill. My next invitation was to CoL

40
Tdden, but, owing to the duties of his position, he declined in
favor of Capt. Atwood, who formed the fourth in our mess.
By no means avaricious of this man's society, I only yielded at
Tilden's earnest request, and in order to avoid a personal ill-
feehng. At the end of ten days, however, fortune favored me,
¦and I was enabled to rid myself of his companionship, under
the plea of a desire to afford as many as possible the oppor
tunity of visiting their commands and, in some cases, their im
mediate relations. Capt. Wentworth, I think, was my next
companion, and each day thereafter I selected a different
person, giving the preference to those having the largest num
ber of their command confined there ; and, in doing this, it
will be observed that I treated my friends and foes alike —
many gentlemen accompanying me for the express purpose
of u-atching ray actions and noting my conduct. Of this, of
course, I was at the moment entirely ignorant ; but, even had
I known it, so conscious was I of having nothing to conceal,
that I sincerely affirm that in no jot or title -would I have al
tered my demeanor to man or officer, friend or foe.
A very brief experience disclosed to me the almost utter
demoralization existing in that encampment, of which a gang
of robbers and murderers, who had joined the army to ob
tain the immense bounties ])aid b}- cities, States, and Govern
ment, (better known as " bounty-jumpers,") had the entire
control. Every squad that presented itself before me l>rought
numerous victims of their villainous practices. Old men and
young, the strong and the weak, the healthy and the sick were
alike the suflercrs. Xo place was sacred and no refuge secure,
and day and night were equally auspicious. Money, clothing,
or subsistence, in turn, tempted them ; and it mattered little,
whether it was the last dollar or the last crust, if opportunity
offered or time served for their nefarious purposes : so horrid
were the details and so numerous the complaints, that I was
sickened and bewildered. Yielding easily, at first, to the dic
tates of pity, I replaced without much questioning the miss
ing and needed articles, of which they had been so wrongfully
despoiled ; but my suspicions having been at length aroused
-by some suspicious circumstances ; and, learning, upon closer

41
¦scrutiny, that I had been imposed upon by some of the very
worst raiders themselves, I became doubtful and distrusting,
and demanded clearer proof and corroborating testimony.
Very much disgusted and shocked at the conduct of these
scoundrels, who robbed and even murdered to obtain any
article possessing merchantable value in the eyes of the Rebel
¦guards, who cared little if the article presented to them was
slightly stained with the blood of its last owner, provided he
were a Yankee, I appealed to Lieut. Bossieux to institute
some measures by which this horrid series of crimes could be
^abated ; but he very soon convinced me that the remedy was
only in the hands of the men themselves. All he could do,
with his limited guards, was to prevent escape, and keep the
hostile masses under apparent control. Any internal regula
tions, other than policing the camp, were beyond the scope of
his duty ; and it did not require much sagacity on my part to
'discover that a little demoralization, more or less, among the
troops of the enemy, was not considered a cause of many
tears to him or his superiors.
By no means pleased with this discovery, and greatly hu
miliated by this gross misconduct of men engaged in a cause
almost as sacred as religion, I racked my brains to devise
«ome efficacious means to mitigate the evil, if not remove it
altogether. Complaints, advice, and persuasion, producing
no effect, I at length tried reproaches and severity, and any
able-bodied man coming to me with his tale of oppression and
woe, proceeding from his own comrades, was promised a
p>etticocd or a woolen shift, in lieu of the blanket, or over
coat he had so pusillanim ously defended. This at length
touched a responsive chord, and I was approached by a small
¦and select number, who respectfully represented that they
•did not like to be told they were old women, and cmvards; and
asked that I would suggest some plan by which, while pro
tecting themselves, they would convince me, and their ene
mies, that they were not onty men, but brave ones too. De
lighted at this exhibition of pluck and wounded pride, I im
mediately gave them the necessary instructions for organizing
a special pohce for the pi-otection of themselves and fellow-

42
prisoners, and the detection and punishment of the guilty.
In less than twentj'-four hours two of the most vicious of the
band of ruffians were brought before me, having been caught
in the very act. Having obtained permission of Lieut. Bos
sieux to inflict a limited punishment, I ordered them
to be bucked — the extent of my poiver — and placed them in
such a position that the whole camp could see them, with
the word " Redder" conspicuously posted on their ^back, in
forming them at the same time, that my greatest regret was
that I couldn't put the rope round their necks instead of their
wrists. The next day three men Avere brought out, badly
beaten in their efforts to escape, and they also Avere bucked.
Subsequently tAvo others Avere caught by the police selHng the
clothing they had just draion from me to the Confederate
guard. As this Avas also the prolific source of much annoy
ance, and the incentive for much dissimulation and fraud, I
made an example of the culprits by bucking each of them for
an hour ; and these instances included every case oi punish
ment in Avhich I Avas, directly or indirectly, interested.
One other incident occurred which, as it has been made a
matter of grave accusation against me, I Avill explain here. A
poor, dilapidated Avretch Avas brought before me in a most mis
erable state. All I could learn from him Avas that his name
Avas Berry, and he belonged to one of the regular regiments —
the 13th, I think. From his. manner and the laughter of those
who surrounded me, (both Federal and Confederate,) I was
led to believe him half-Avitted, and gave him all the necessary
clothing of Avhich he was deficient. In a few days he again
presented himself in a Avorse condition, if possible, than be
fore. Again I clothed him, charging him to be more careful
of his raiment. A third time he appeared before me, under
the plea of having been robbed. Somewhat annoyed and ir
ritated, I AA'as, nevertheless, on^the point of issuing the order to
reclothe him when it Avas intimated to me that he Avas a deserter.
Pausing in my order, I asked him Avhat regiment he belonged
to before he enlisted in the regulars. He mentioned a New-
York Volunteer regiment. I then inquired if he had been
mustered out of that regiment; his reply was, that he had left

43
of his OAvn accord. I again questioned him as to whether ho
had received any bounty for joining the last regiment. After
some hesitation, he acknowledged that he had been paid some
thing for it. I then charged him Avith being a deserter, and,
upon closely pressing him, he partially admitted it. Upon
discovering that the fellow Avas more knave than fool, and had
been imposing on my sympathies, I ordered him into the en
closure and forbade him to trouble me again nnder threats of
a good kicking. Tavo Aveeks elapsed, and hearing nothing
more of him, I dismissed the subject from my mind ; but, one
day, rumors of exchange being very rife, (700 men having
been sent off',) Cols. Boyd and Hunter became alarmed lest
some of the clothing should fall into the hands of the Rebels;
and insisted that it should be distributed at once, as fast as
possible. This I opposed, because it interfered Avitli the order
and regularity of the issuing and opened the doors to abuses
and errors; besides, I could easily have kept pace Avith any
delivery of prisoners that could have been made, Avithout step'
ping out of the usual course ; but, being overruled and out
voted, Lt. Col. Hunter Avith Lt. Col. Archer, Avho had been
added to the committee by Capt. McRae Selph, in recognition
of Col. Archer's kindness to him Avhilst a prisoner in our
hands, Avere selected to assist me. Placing stands for' them
some little distance from my OAvn, Ave proceeded to issue over
coats and such other articles as were on hand, in a manner, to-
my mind, savoring of the reckless. During this operation, and
whilst awaiting the arrival of another squad, (having a foAV
minutes to spare,) I sauntered around to see hoAv my colleagues
were progressing, and also to ascertain if any of those against
whom I had made a black mark Avere taking advantage of the
new comers. As I suspected, some of them were on hand;
but, on seeing me approach, they slunk aAvay into the enclo
sure. One, alone, remained — and he was the persistent Berry,
who was standing with his back towards me, earnestly plead
ing with Col. Archer for various articles which he alleged had
never been furnished him. Without giving the Colonel time
to reply, I turned him around ; and, confronting him, asked
him what he wanted. Although someAvhat taken aback, ha

44
immediately commenced, in a whining tone, his well-conned
tale— that he Avanted this, and he wanted that. " I'll tell you
what you want," said I, taking him by the collar—" You want
what I promised you ; and now you shall have it." With that
I pushed him ahead of me, and kicked him as I Avalked — each
foot, alternatel}-— f/iree times in all. I then took him to the
gate and, putting him through it, ordered him not to come out
again Avithout my permission. Three officers Avere present on
this occasion, of Avliom, hoAVCA'cr, I can recall byname but two;
and, as it occurred some distance from my own stand, none of
those accustomed to surround me Avere cognizant of it.
Some few Aveeks subsequent,! Avas informed hj Lt. Bossieux
that he had found a poor felloAV complaining bitterly during
the night of having been kicked out of his quarters by his
comrades, on account of his filthy and lousy condition. Tak
ing him out of the camp, he sent him down to the river, had
him Avashed from head to foot; and, oi^ening the boxes, (which
were under a guard selected by myself of our OAvn men,) gave
him every article of clothing afresh. Unable to name the man
he sent for him, and placed before me the irrepressible jBcjt^/ .'
HaA'ing heard that my enemies in the prison had made capital
against me, in consequence of my treatment of this man, I
seized the o})portunity of making him state in presence of Col.
McCreei-y and Col. LcFaA^our (who, I am under the impres
sion, accompanied me that day) his Avhole history; from AA'hich
w^e learned that he had tAvice deserted, each time after re-
ceiA'ing a bounty from Volunteer regiments, and had finally
brought up among the "Regulars,'' I asked him if he recol
lected me ; he said, " Yes,'' What did I do to you ?" " You.
kicked me." " Did I hurt you ?" " Oh, no !" replied he,
laughingly, " You can kick me tAvice as hard every day, if
3'ou Avill only double my rations !''
Satisfied that I had not Avounded either his person or his
honor, I dismissed him and never afterwards saAV him. I Avas
told, hoAvever, that he very soon disposed of his noAv outfit,
and finally died from exposure.
In relating this incident, I have " nothing extenuated, nor
¦sot doAvn aught -In .malice." It is the only event of my impris-

45
onment I Avonld care to alter, not because the party punished
did not deserve that and more, but simply because it Avas an
undignified exhibition of temper, quite foreign to my nature,.
and not at all calculated to raise ine in tho estimation of my
enemies or myself; and I regret it the more because it is the
single stone on Avhich my calumniators have erected a huge
structure of cruelty, inhumanity and brutality.
As regards my conduct to the men Avhon brought before ine
in my official capacity, I have neither regret nor excuse to
offer. When I first came in contact Avith them I found many
of them in an almost semi-barbarous state, list to ah disciphne,,
subordination, and selfrespcct ; and, as a consequence, uuAvill-
ing or unable to estimate properly the favor conferred upon
them by an ever-Avatchful Government. The most lawless and
demoralized among them looked upon me as the only obstacle
betAveen them and the entire gratification of their desire to
steal, plunder, and murder. Muscle and self-Avifl Avore the
only guides and limit they recognized, and Avlicn they met, in
me, a check to their lawles.sness and crime, they turned upon
me Avith insolent defiance, or aggressive abuse. To the offi
cials of our. common enemy Avho surrounded me, regarding all
my movements Avith curiosit}', and Avitnessing my humiliation
Avith in-concealed merriment, these exhibitions Avere of the.
most gratifying character, giving them, as it did, such an ex--
cellent and telling text for draAving comparisons.
Unaccustomed to this flagrant disrespect, and stung to the
quick by the sneers and impertinent sympathy of my foes, I
determined to efi'ect, if possible, a sudden and salutary change..
As has been already stated, my issues were made from rolls
carefully prepared previously. Each squad Avas called out
separately, aud the Sergeant in charge standing near me veri--
fied the man as he ansAvered to his name. Having decided
upon the course to pursue, I placed a strip of board about ten
feet from my OAvn stand, so as to. enable me to scrutinize and
examine the applicant,, and as the squad was draAvn up before
me in line, I called the Sergeant aside and directed him to,
bring up each man, as his name was called, to that mark in a
soldierly and respectful rajanper, with their hands ont of their-

46
j pockets ; and particularly cautioned him to forbid them asking-
me questions until they had ansAvered mine. Although I had a
perfect right to expect and demand that each man as he present
ed himself before me, should make the customary salute, I did
not exact it for two reasons. First, because it Avould have ne
cessitated a return of the compliment thus offered, which
would have rather taxed my endurance, and second, because
many, if not a majority, of both officers and privates, partic
ularly the former, Avould have considered me a martinet, and
deemed me over-fastidious. As it Avas, many of the Sergeants
added this item to the other requirements, and many Avell-dis-
ciplined soldiers accorded it Avithout prompting. Another of
my regulations Avas, that loud talking, bickering and profanity,
Avould not be permitted in the ranks, and Avhen it did occur, I
haA'e sent t.he offenders into the encampment for the day. If,
in spite of the example constantly exhibited, and the caution
iuA^ariably given, some obstinate or careless disciple, ignoring
all precepts and suggestions, Avould present himself Avith segar
in mouth, or hands in pocket, I unhesitatingly and authorita
tively called his attention to the fact, and punished, insolence
of manner as summarily as if expressed more audibly.
That I was correct in the course I pursued, wdl not be de
nied, I think, by any but a pohtical trickster. " Courtesy
among military men is indispensable to discipline," and there
are no lack of examples to show that an officer Avho does not
respect himself and the rank he holds, Avill not command the
respect or obtain the obedience of those beneath him.
Placed as I Avas in an enemy's country and prison ; charged
with the care and protection of a large amount of property
belonging to my OAvn Government ; surrounded every instant
by unfriendly and inimical critics, ever ready to perceive and
comment upon every dereliction from Avell-cstabhshed princi
ples of military discipline ; Avithout the ability to enforce my
orders save through the courtesy of a deadly foe, and having
to deal with a band of men, some of them Avholly lost to obe
dience or self-respect, I found my position anything but a sin
ecure, and my path beset by everything but roses. With cer
tain ideas of military etiquette, routine and subordination.

47
implanted in my mind by long association with such officers
as Irvin McDowell, Joseph Hooker, George G. Meade, John
F. Reynolds, John NcAvton, and others of like character ; and
engaged in a profession Avhich had, from my earliest youth
possessed my deepest veneration, I felt all my responsibilities,
and was thoroughly cognizant of all my rights. Ea'cu had I
been ignorant of the latter, the open enjoyment, on the part
of our enemies, at every display of insolence, disrespect and
pretended stupidity of my fellow-soldiers, Avould have opened
the eyes of the most stolid ; AA'hilst the half-concealed glances
of approval Avrung from them, as soldier after soldier appeared,
each striving to excel his felloAv in military smartness and
disciplined respect, betrayed their recognition of our soldierly
qualities, creating in the heart of every true man a glow of
exultation and triumph : at least it had that effect on me ;
and the compliments frequently paid by some of the best of
the rebel officers stationed or visiting that post, elicited by
the really excellent appearance of many of our men — Gom-
missary as I loas — greatly elated me. Proud of my connec
tion with the splendid Army of the Potomac, I felt more than
usual gratification Avhen my comrades in that organization ex
hibited their truly martial excellence in appearance and dis
cipline ; and although my sympathies Avere most moved in
behalf of those true patriots, undisciplined as they Avere, from
the Border States, expecially those from East Tennessee, I
own that a respectful request sometimes extorted from me the
coveted garment, when perhaps a less military bearing Avould
have failed in impressing me with the necessity. I do love a
good soldier, and have travelled many a mile to Avitness a
superior drill.
In my intercourse with the men, apart from my official du
ties, I endeavored to be as kind to them as my disposition
would permit, and I have the heartfelt consciousness of hav
ing, in my humble way, and with my limited means, been
able to do them many acts of disinterested kindness, the rela
tion of which would ill befit me to undertake.
With one other incident in my prison life, I hope to con
clude this eventful history, already too 1 -g drawn out.

48
Having had a personal difficulty Avith a junior officer, some of
his friends, joining forces Avitli my av ell-known enemies, called
a meeting during my absence from prison, Avhich, although no-
such object Avas stated in the call, soon proved to be for the
purpose of denouncing me. Unprepared for any such demon
stration, many gentlemen, on hearing the resolutions, in
Avhich grave charges Avere preferred against me, demand
ed from the instigators and Avire-pullers of the convoca
tion, proofs of the allegations therein made ; and as these Avere
not forthcoming, they incontinently A'oted the Avliole thing
doAvn by an OA'erwhelming majority, and adjourned the meet
ing sine die. On my return to the prison, late in the after
noon, I Avas the recipient of an imi^rovised ovation, Avhich com-
pletelj' nn-stified me, as many of the participants had ahvays
been regarded by me as unfriendly. On reaching my quar
ters, hoAvever, I Avas enlightened as to the cause of mj^ sudden
popularity, and Avas regaled for many a day thereafter Avith
the recital of the fun provoked by this gathering.
In .-^pite of the (-ou-imendations of niy friends, hoAvever, I
could not but feci iiidi,u-iiant at this cowardly attempt to in
jure me ; and, Avith a A-ie^v to hold the parties to a strict ac
countability hereafter, I Avrote to the master-.^pirit ofthe affair
— a Capt. McKec, from Kentucky, asking in the most court
eous terms a copy of the Preamble and Res(.)lutions read by
him on the occasion. To this he made s(j equivocating a re
ply and exhibited so contemptible a spirit that I felt con
strained to brand him as a slanderer and })oltroon, and there
the matter ended as far as he was concerned. A day or two
afterwards, Col. PoAvell, (noAv Brigadier-General,) availing him'
self of remarks made by me publicly — that I Avould answer
any question in reference to my conduct, in or out of the
prison respectfully presented to me — caUed at my quarters and,
after a conference of nearly three hours in duration, thanked
me for my frankness and openly avowed his complete satisfac
tion Avith my ex}ilanations. Anxious to give as many officers
as desired it an opportunity to converse freely Avith the men
on the Island, I asked and obtained permission from Major
Turner to take with me, daily, two officers, instead of one ; and

49
tbus I repaid tlie malice of my enemies, Avho crushed and de
feated in every movement, alloAved me to remain quiet during
the rest of my imprisonment. Shortly after this event, the -
time for the completion of Col. Rose's tunnel approaching, I
was called upon by Major McDanald, of the 101st Ohio, Avho,
after introducing himself being a perfect stranger to me,
asked if I had not publicly stated that I Avould lend money to
any officer proposing to make his escape. This I affirmed,
with the explanation, that, at the time specified I had more
imeans at my command, and desired to effect a certain result,
viz: conveying intelligence to my government of the rein
forcement of Bragg's army by Longstreet. At the moment
then in question I Avas not so Avell stocked AAnth money, and
declined especially robbing myself for the purpose of gorging
the guard, as Streight and Ely had done with such marked
results — the latter liaA'ing paid a hundred dollars (greenbacks)
for the pleasure of " climbing clown" a rope, and ten dollars
for the privilege of climbing np again ! Disclaiming anysuch
intention, and satisfying me that the mode of exit Avas practi
cable and novel, I promised to raise a certain sum, Avliich he
could rely upon. A d-ay or tAvo after, ilujor Henry, of the
Sth Ohio Cavali-A', and one of the speakers at the first meet
ing a.gainst me, also approached me on the same errand, Avith
the same result, and finally Lt. W. F. Randolph, a Regular
officer, to Avhom I gave my last dollar. Of these gentlemen,
tAvo Avere fortunate enough to succeed in their attempts, Avhilst
the third. Major Henry, was unluckily recaptured. Others
applied to me for funds for the same purpose, but having ex
hausted my stock, I had recourse to my store of luxuries and
provisions, and even necessaries, among Avhich I number a
hatchet and a bottle of excellent brandy, both of Avhich, as I
afterAvards learned, Avere of incalculable value.
On the morning of the 7th of ilarch I AA^as sent to the
office, and ordered to get ready to leave for — home. In two
hours I Avas to be ever more a free man. So unexpected, and
so startling the nCAVs ; so varied and so numerous the hopes
and expectations that, for a feAV moments, I Avas unable to ex
press my feelings, and Avas only reminded of my personality

50.
by the Major humorously asking me "ifl Avas sorry to leave>
him ?" The Avarmth of my reply Avas more amusing than com-
phmentai-y, and after receiving his congratulations I returned
to my quarters to announce the glad tidings, OverAvhelmed
with joy every trace of bitterness faded from my heart, and
there was not a man in that building, inclnding AtAvood, Mc
Kee, et id omne genus, that I Avould not gladly have shaken
hands Avith, and forgiA-en CA^ery injury, in all sincerity. On
CA-ery side. I met pleasant faces and hearty congratulations,
each one hoping- his turn Avould come next, und had I been pos
sessed of a million instead of the foAv dollars I had obtained, I
Avould cheerfully liaA'e dispensed it all. As it Avas, CA'crything
ofthe slightest value not absolutely indispensable to my com
fort, from a suit of clothes to a soda cracker, Avas distributed
among my friends and messmates ; and passing- through the
lines of comrades draAvn np to bid me " God-speed," I found
both hands inadequate to the task of giA-ing " a last shake,"
With nothing but a haversack, and that but meagrelj" fitted, I
experienced but little delay in passing my examinations, and
emerged among the first into the free air. On our Avay
down the river on the contemptibie little craft furnished br
the Confederacy, Avhilst intoxicated Avith jov, mingled Avith re
gret that there Avere not more Avith us, I Avas startled from my
dehcious dreamin,L;-s by hearing that my intense and unscrupu
lous enemy AtAvood, had been left behind, — and, more start
hng still, — Avas told that he had charged me Avith being the
cause of it — as if anything but a snake could hold A-enom at
such a moment. Unconscious as I Avas, up to that instant,
that he Avas not on board, — our party having been separated
on reaching the vessel— I could hardly believe my oAvn ears, as
I Avas confident I had seen him all ready to be examined just
as I stepped from the hall. Somewhat' dampened in my exu
berance by this ill-timed slander, I Avas proportionately re
joiced to hear from Capt. Cockman and Capt Johnsoii the
true verson of his return— they being selected by the Sur
geon of the hcspifdl, owing to their sickness, in place of At
wood and my old friend Douglass, whose names happening to
be at the head of the list of Captains, were stricken off by

51
Major Turner himself, at the last moment. One Aveek after
Avards they Avere both released, and I only mention the cir
cumstance to sliOAv the fiendish spirit of this coAvardly crea
ture, Avho fastened Avith devilish hate ou every incident that
could, by misrepresentation or downright falsification, be laid
to my account.
On reaching Washington, I Avas still more dis-agreeably sur
prised to hear from Gen. Meade that charges seriously reflect
ing on my honor and loyalty had been made, by Col. Streight
and others, to the Honorable Secretary of War, Avho Avas ex
ceedingly angered at me in consequence. Repairing imme
diately to the War Department, I saAv Gen. Canby, Avho as
sured me that he had no knowledge of such charges. I then
called on Major-Gen. Hitchcock, and after two hours' conver
sation Avith him on other subjects, learned also from him that
nothing of the kind had been brought to his notice. Con-
A^inced that there must be some error in the matter, I Avas on
the poiut of leaving for home Avhen I received a note from Col.
Hoffman, Commissarj'-General of Prisoners, requesting- me to
call at his office. I did so, and Avas informed that I must con
sider myself under arrest, and remain in my hotel until the
matter could be investigated. Ou the next da}', my friend
Gen. Wadsworth, indignant at the treatment imposed upon
me, called on Mr. Stanton, and in the most energetic manner
protested against it. The day following, I Avrote to Mr. Stan
ton, requesting a Court of Inquiry, and claiming the right to
be considered and treated as an innocent man until tried and
proven otherAvise, To this the only answer Avas an order re
leasing me from arrest, and permitting me to Adsit my family
and home, Avhich I was not to leave until so directed, holding
myself ready to meet any charges that might be brought
against me by any officer, a fellow prisoner of Avar Avith me in
Richmond. Two months had nearl}' elapsed, Avhen, finding
myself exchanged, I Avrote to the Adjutant-General again, re
questing- an immediate trial, or assignment to duty. To this
the onlv reply Avas a summary dismissal from the service, no
tice of Avhich Avas received through the public papers. I im
mediately repaired to Washington, and endeavored to see the.

52
President, Failing in this, oAving to the pressure of pubhc
business, I returned home, and in October again visited the
Capitol, where I remained untd I effected my object, by being
ordered to appear before your honorable Commission, Avhere
I learned for the first time the nature of the charges and the
names of my accusers.
THE DEFENCE.
Such, npon my honor as a gentleman and a soldier, is the
honest record of my experiences as a prisoner of War. Let
me noAv attempt a brief examination of the charges against
me. And, first, a Avord or tAvo as to my accusers. Why are Gen.
DoAv and Corporal Taylor thus arraigned against me ?
It is hard for one so falsely and treaclier(.iusly assailed as I
haA'e been liy these men, to restrain his honest indignatioij ;
but I shall abstain from all inA'cctiA'c, and respectfully refer
your Honorable Commission to the eAndence as to the motiA^es
which have made these persons my liitter enemies.
Gen. Dow sufficiently discloses the cause of his animosity
tome in his own letter. He states : "After my protest to Gen.
Winder against the cruel treatment of my soldiers at Belle
-Isle, I Avas not permitted to A'isit them any more, and the busi
ness of distributing the clotliing to the soldiers — all of Avhich
"was sent to me — Avas put into his hands." And again, " The
U. S, Siuiitary Commission sent a great quantity of supplies
to me for distribution, but the Rebels put them into the hands
of Col Saxdeesox."
The General here makes tAvo positive misstatements ; for it
is not true that the Sanitary supplies Avere ever placed in my
hands for distribution, or that I had at any time a personal
control over them ; nor did I immediately succeed him in the
business of disti-ibuting the U, S. clothing as he implies in his
letter, as it is clearly and indisputably shoAvn that other officers
took his place and had charge for Aveeks before I Avas appointed.
But, aside from these misstatements, we reach the cause of his
•choler.

53
To be ousted from his high position by Rebel authority; su
perseded by officers of inferior rank, and tho great honors he
so ostentatiously flaunted, thus suddenly stripped from hiin,
Avere ample causes for any display of venom, and sufficient to
embitter hini a.gainst any successor, but especially one avIio
had dared to speak lightly of his ability, and objected to his
companionship. It is i-.ot so stated in the testimony presented
because I deemed it almost too puerile to mention in niA'
queri(3s to the parties cognizant of the fact, but I can perso
nally relate another and a secret motive for this gentleman's
antagonism to me, Avhich, although of the -pettiest nature, is
strongly characteristic of my foe. After the incident referred
to on page  of my narrative, an officer whose name has
passed from my memory, approached Col. Tilden and myself
and stated that General Neal Doav Avas daily expected to ar-
riA'e from Mobile, and that he Avonld then be the ranking offi
cer, and as wc had, fhe best mess in the prison, he suggested the-
propriety of iiiAdting him to join us. To this I quickly ob
jected on the ground "that Neal Dow, in my opinion, was.
neither a soldier nor a gentleman ; and for my part I declined
all association or companionship Avitli him, esjoecially as his.
rank Avon Id seemingly entitle him to immunity from cooking-
and cleaning, and I did'nt care to do the dirty work of any
man be his rank never so high." Laboring under the disad
vantage of placing before you only just such testimony as my
comrades may choose to furnish, it is impossible for me to
prove that this remark ever canie to his ears ; but, Avere I
permitted to examine certain gentlemen under oath, among
them General Doav himself I entertain but little doubt of my
ability to substantiate my statement. At all events, as he
says, and I concur' in, " there Avas no intercourse betAveen us,
although our quarters Avere close together."
As to the causes of General Doav's removal by the ^Confed
erates, I do not propose to examine or criticise them. Every
officer that visited the Island, unite in branding the treatment
of our men as brutal, inhuman and savage, and no ono felt
that more keenly than I did ; but that it Avas politic or Avlse
so to characterize the conduct of our jailors in a paper evi-

54
dently intended to produce an amelioration of that treatment,
is at least debatable. Having no shortcomings to gloss over,
no suspicious circumstances to obscure, and no political aspira
tions to nurture, I did not deem it necessary to couch my re
quests in threatening terms, nor A'entilate niA' patriotism in
the '' spread eagle" fashion. When I asked a fa\"cr for my
suffering comrades, I plead for it Avith tears in ni'f eyes, and
Avhen I protested, as rny felloAA'-officers have testified, I did
it in a manly and frank manner. That mine Avas the better
method is oAddenced by the statement of the men Avho swear
that after my visits to the Island ceased, their ration -was
reduced. The enmity of Corporal Taylor is of a more legitimate char
acter, and is based on recognized grounds. Acting for a time
as an issuin,g Clerk he Avas detected in the act of appropriating
certain articles of clothing Avithout permission, aud punished
by a return to the encampment, and the refusal on my part to
alloAv him to draAV anything from the general stock. Of course
this enraged him, '¦'No thif f e'er felt Ihe halter draw,
AVith .sood opinion of the ]z.v,'l"
-and doubtless Mr. Corporal Taylor feels that he is a much ag
grieved individual, and Avill spare no effort to impress me Avith
the fact, urging at the moment, if I recollect aright, that he
Avanted the articles, and didn't consider it steahng to take
them. I dissented, hence his avoc.
So much for the animus ; let us noAV examine the nature of
their char.ge-;.
And at this point, let me call the attention of your Honora
ble Cominis.-;ion to the ingenious and artfully Avorded letter of
'General Dow. The Avriter ((sscrts nothing, as of his own knoAvl-
ed,ge, but c..:pj-e':ses his conviciions 'and his ilioaghls, throAving
upon other shoulders ti-Le burden of this most foul accusation.
To crnsli and ruin a brother officer, he Aveaves a cunningly de
vised tissue of A-ague charges upon //.er.t,-,sa?/'. lestimony. ''The
CA-idence, as if stands, seenis insufficient to convict ofthe
smallest offence ; how much less to condemn me to a future
of shame Avorse than death itself.

55
But I desire to take'iio 6x6eption, even 'to this hearsay tes
timony, " 'Wliat T (lid, I did in honoy,
Led by the impartiiil condiict of my soul ;
And never shall yon see that I -will beg
If truth and upright innocency fail me,"
Fortunately for me, the abundant and overwhelming testi
mony, — entirely voluntary, as you knoAv, — of those of my fei ¦
.low prisoners Avhom I have been able to reach, enables me to
¦dispense Avith any such technical plea. I ought to add here
that I have addressed over 150 letters to my brother officers,
L)ut many of them being in Sherman's aud Thomas' armies,
Avhilst others are entirely out of the serAnce, leaving no
¦clue to their Avhereabouts, their replies have not yet
reached me, although in some cases, I have Avritten as
often as three times to different points. Should your Honora
ble Commission, hoAvever, desire further testimony, or require
greater elucidation of any point, I Avould respectfully ask to
"be permitted to add these statements as they are receiA'ed.
These charges Avhlch, as you Avill observe, are made neither
on honor nor on oath, may be placed under four heads, viz. : —
1st. Disloyalty.
2d. Cruelty to Federal Prisoners.
3d. Misappropriation of stores sent by the Government or
".by the U. S. Sanitary Commission.
4th. Disclosure of a plot to escape.
1st. Disloyalty —
In support of this charge. Gen. Doav offers the folloAving
¦ proof :^ —
" The conviction among the officers generally Avas, that he
was disloyal, had little or no sympathy Avith our cause, biit
much for the Rebels. On that pointl^Am/c Col. Streight is
particularly informed."
To this charge I respectfully oppose' the folloAving frank-and
ifull statement of my past mditary career. . .., . ^
¦At the commencement of this conflict, I Avas known 'as.aji

56
" Old Line Whig," very conservatiAns in my ideas, and some-
Avliat Pro-Slavery in my proclivities. Holding a lucrative and.
confidential position in the XeAv-Ye)rk Hotel, (celebrated as the
sojourning place of the Southerners,) all my associations tended
to strengthen these sentiments ; but, Avhen that " little cloud no.
bigger than a man's hand" appeared on the horizon — Avhen a
minor section threatened the disruption of a ,great Republic —
and countless hordes arrayed themseh-es against one little
band of heroes in Fort Sumpter — my Southern sympathy and
my conservative vie^vs melted into thin air, and I felt that tlie-
time had come for every true man to range himself openly
under the banner of Freedom and Unity, or cling to Despot--
ism and Slavery. Without an instant's hesitation, I made iny
choice. .Vt the first call for men and money, I gaA-e all of both
at my command. Endorsed unanimously by the bunion De
fence Committee, aud other prominent citizens of my State, I
sought employment in the Subsistence Department ; and Avas
one oi four bidders lor the first batch of Treasury notes. At
this moment my emjiloyer, hearing of my motions, ingeniously
fastened a quarrel on me ; and, at one day's notice, dismissed'
me from his establishment. As my connection Avitli this sus-
jDected resort has been quoted by those high in authority to
my disadvantage, I embody heroAvith certain publications re--
lating thereto.
On the 29th May, 1861, (a foAv days after my dismissal,)-
there appeared in the New- York Tribune the folloAving para
graph : — "an AMERICAN SOYER."
" We learn that Mr. James M. Sanderson, Avho has been for-
several years the StcAvard and purveyor of the NoAV-York
Hotel, has been dismissed from his place on account of his
Union sentiments, and that he intends doing for our OAvn
Army Avhat Soyer did for the British troops in the Crimea —
teach them hoAV to preserve their lives by cooking their food
properly. Mr. Sanderson is both a scientific and practical-
cook, and comprehends the principles of the cidsine as Avell.
perhaps as any man Avho has written upon the subject, from.
Vatel to Careme. If he Avere to go upon a culinary campaign^

57'
among our troops, ho inight render them most important ser
vices by a few simjide practical directions, as Avell as be the
means of saving some thousands of dollars to the Commissa-
ri-.it. If it be true that beans kill more of our men than bul
lets, a head Cook is of more importance to our Army than a
head Surgeon. ItAvillbe a great blessing tothe Country if
the services of so capable a man as Mr. Sanderson could be
secured for this purjiose,"
On the following morning there appeared, in the same paper,
"a card from air, h. craxstox,"
" To the Editor of the Tribune :
'- Sir, — I Avas supjn-ised to learn from A'our paper of this-
morning's issue, that Jaaies M. Saxderson, " who has been for
some years steA\-ard and purveyor of the N, Y. Hotel, has been
dismissed from his place on account of his Union sentiments."'
I IniA'C only to say in ansAver to this statement, that I have
had no conversation Avith Mr. Sanderson on the subject of
politics, and that my reasons for dismissing- him IniA^e nothing
AvhateA'er to do Avitli his Union sentiments, or any other senti
ments, as Mr. Sanderson avcII knoAvs. The priA^ate opinions
of my clerks are matters Avith Avhicli I have neither the right
nor the disjjosition to interfere. It is only necessary lor them
to perforin their respective duties, as I endeaA^or to perform
mine, not only to my guests but to my employees and my
country ; and I claim the right to engage and to discharge
men Avithout being subjected to noAvspaper misrepresenta
tions."
"HIRAM CRANSTON.
"N. Y. Hotel, May 29, 1831."
To this I made the subjoined response :
" A REPLY TO MR. H. CR.4.NST0N.
" To the Editor of the N. Y. Tribune :
Sir, — I did not Avrite the article in your journal headed ' An-
American Soyer,' nor see it until after its issue, but, to the
best of my belief, it is substantially correct. .
" In Mr. Hiram Cranston's ansAver thereto he makes some
graA^e misstatements. He says that he had had no conversa
tion Avith Mr. Sanderson on the subject of politics. He has
had such a conversation A\dthin the past tAvo Aveeks, and as
bitter a discussion as our relative positions Avould permit. He
asserts " that he performs his duty to his country." True, he.:

58
•commits no overt act of treason, for AA'hich the wholesome
dread of a traitor's doom may in some degree account.
¦- x\.s to my making arrangements of a bnsiness character,—
tho implied cause in his note of dismissal, — I do confess it.
^-^elf respect Avould not permit me to hold any position under
ilr. Cranston, after the expiration of the term agreed upon —
the 1st of August jDroximo ; and I do also confess that I have
been, and am still, endeaA'-oring to obtain an honorable posi
tion under that GoA-ernment and that flag Avhich his traitor-
t3U3 confederates are striA-ing- to subvert and trample upon.
" Veiy respectfully yours,
"JAMES M. SANDERSON.
¦" Pierrepont House, Brookhm,
" May 30th, 1861."
This shot proA'ing too much for my antagonist, he aban
doned the public lorints, and sought rcA-engc by preferring
-charges against me in a Masonic Lodge, of Avhich wc Avere
both members. With my resolution unchanged, and in hopes
that my peculiar speciality as a .gastronomist mi.ght prove ser-
A-lcable in preserving- life, I repaired to the Capitol, and, un
der the auspices of the Sanitary Commission, so-aght to intro
duce a plan for teaching the soldiers how to cook their ra
tions. Unsuccessful in my efforts to bring it to the favorable
notice of the then Secretary of War, I returned to NoAv-York,
and at the request of the principal memliers of the Sanitary
Commission, visited Albany, and disclosed my plan to his Ex
cellency E. D, Morgan, then Governor of the State, and his
Surgeon-in-Cliief. My ideas being approved by the latter, I
Avas authorized by the former to return to Washington, and
test, in some of the Xew-York regiments, their practicability.
Two Aveeks sufficing to proA-c this, I condensed as briefly as
pos.sible the details of my plan, and placed them before the
leading Regular and Volunteer officers, by Avhom they Avere
unanimously recommended. With these endorsements, I
knocked loudly and persistently at the doors of Coii.-ress, but
as all Avas in confusion and dismay, there as Avell as elsewhere,
I had my labor for my pains ; and out of heart and out of
funds, turned my face.'homeAvard. Before leaving the city,
-howcA--er, I applied at the War Dcpr.rtment for the papers de-

m
. posited there, adArocating my appointment as commissary. Oii
learning my object, Mr. Cameron, knoAving my antecedents,
ordered my appointment to be made out. On caUing the
next day, I Avas informed that no A-acancy existed in the covet
ed department. SomeAvhat disgusted at this intelligence, I
again started for home, determined to take a hand in the
fight OA-eii on my OAAni hook. On making my intentions knoAvn
to the Hon. Henry Wilson, he immediately offered me the
position of Quartermaster of his new regiment — the Twenty-
second Massachusetts — then about to be recruited. This I
instantly accepted, and after a brief sojourn at home, pre
sented myself at the city of Boston, ready for duty. Whilst
there, I received notice of my appointment as Commissary,
but feeling some pride in the organization to Avhich I had
been, though for a short time, attached, I asked and obtain
ed permission to remain Avith it until ready to leave for the
front. On the 20th October, having comfortably located the
regiment, in its first camp on Hall's Hill, Va., I reported for
duty to the Subsistence Department, and Avas assi,gned-to the
staff of the brave and lamented Wadsworth, Avho had applied
for me as soon as he heard of my appointment. With him I
remained until he Avas transferred to the Military Governor- '
ship of the Defences of Washington. During that Avinter,
finding my official duties by no meaus onerous, I filled up my
.leisure time by putting into form my experiences in camp
cooking, which I presented to the Government, by Avhom it
was published and distributed everywhere.
After Gen. WadsAvorth's departure, I was selected by Maj.
den. McDoAvell, as Chief Commissary of the First Corps,
Avhich. position I retained to the day of its' disbandment.' In
July, 1862, I Av'as promoted, at the personal solicitation of my
Commanding General, to the rank of Major and Additional
Aid-de-Camp ; and, in the folloAAdng January, Avas made Lieut.
Colonel, at the request of my then Commander, Major-General
Johii F. Rej'iiolds. Although as a Commissary, strictlj" speak
ing, I Avas a non-combatant, I always claimed the right, by vir
tue df my comiiiissibn as Majoi' to'act as Aid on the field of
battle j and am proud to say that I have ilever beeri' absent

60
from any engagement in Avhich my General took part, and
ncA-er hesitated to go Avhere he led or ordered me. In this
Avay I participated in the battle of Cedar Mountain, the Banks
of "the Rappahannock, and the battles of :\[annassas and Sec
ond Bidl Run, under General ilcDoAvell; South Mountain and
Antietam, under (Teneral Hooker: Frederiekslmrg. Cliancel-
lorsvihe, and Gettysburg, under Generals Reynolds and New
ton. If Brigadier-General Xeal Doav can present a better rec
ord or shnw more devotion to onr cause, I am quite sure his
friends A\-ould be pleased to see it: and, if 1 have exhibited no
sympathy Avith the Union cause, I should be glad to learn how
it is to be done. The second specification of this most irregu
lar charge is thus speciously Avorded : —
¦ ily coiivietion Avas that Col, S.vxdersox had no sympathy
Avith the Union cause. His conversation, ;~o far as I knew of
it, indicated a decided hostility to the Administration and its
measures ; and certainly he manifested no kindly feeling to-
Avards onr soldiers, Avho Avere sutlering so much in their
Country's serA'ice. '
For once, my venerable antagonist A-entures to break. from
the guardianship of his friends, Streight and Atwood, and
state soinething of his own knowledge, limited though it be
even by his own shoAving, But my accuser has thus plunged
into a dilemma, from Avliich no witness can rescue him. Out
of the large amount of testimony presented to your Honorable
Commission herewith, every officer that touches the subject
at all tells you most decidedh" the contrary. From the high
est to the l.iwest, on one point at least, they are emphatic and
unanimous, and that is, that I Avas not only an earnest upholder
of the Administration and the Government, but also a most
consistent advocate of all its measures, Avliile in prison.
Bnt, supposing the allegation of the subtle politician Avas
strictly true — alloAving that I Avas an opponent of the Admin
istration, I Avould respectfully ask, When did that become a,
crime in the United States? I frankly acknoAvledge that L
did not vote for Abraham Lincoln in the Presidential election
of 1860. Relying on my rights as an American citizen ; en
titled by birth and residence to all the privdeges incident
thereto — the right of franchise, freedom of opinion, and lib-

61
'erty of speech ; and hardly prepared to believe the principles
of the Republican party as most conducive to the pro.sperity
and perpetuity of the country, I gave my support to Ste
phen .-L. Douglas, being the first and only time I ever voted a
Democratic ticket. But Avhen I found that a section of that
organization declared that the Avill of the majority, as mani
fested by Mr. Lincoln's election, should, not be re.spected, I did
not hesitate an instant in repudiating such heresies or in aban
doning such a party. I do not blush at making this admis
sion, nor do I take credit for having, at the recent election,
joined the goA'crning partj^, as I sincerely belive it Avill not
infiuence the judgment of this Honorable Commission one
iota. With the alternatiA'es presented at this crisis, the pro
per course to me appeared clear; for, Avhilst I am Avithout the
hope of finding here beloAV perfection either in party or parti
san, I am content to accept any man as the banner-bearer of
my political principles, whose antecedents and actions do not
give the lie to his professions ; and, as I shall never be an ap
plicant for goA-ernmental patronage, it is a matter of perfect
indifference Avhether the party in poAver is cognizant of my
proclivities or not. For the present Chief Magistrate I have
no particular predilection and, should occasion require, would
vote against him to-morrov»^, if any other man of the same
party should be found more fitting or available. As none
such Avas presented to me, I had no choice; and, therefore,
yielded to the situation. This much I say, to .sIioav that I seek
no favor on account of my political preferences or principles.
I am, fortunately, no bigoted politician nor blatant partisan;
and my services as an advocate are not to be secured b}^ hopes
of .office or lust of power —
" I care for measures more than men, but think
Some little may depend upon the men ;
Something in fires depends upon the grate,"
A volunteer in this conflict, I onh- asked to be placed Avhere
I could do most service, and AvhatcA-er promotion I may have
attained has resulted from the manner in which- 1 have per
formed that service,; ,Qf the truth of. this my Commanders

62
and associates offer ample testimony, rendering- any remarks
from me unnecessary.
As regards my " manifesting no kindly feehng towards our
soldiers Avho Avere suffering so much in their country's servi
ces,'' I eagerly join issue AAdth my aged accuser, and Avould
gladly match him, could I meet him face to face before your
Honorable Commission, or any other tribunal — act to act or
result to result — Avhether in Libby Prison or on BeUe Island.
To be sure, I made no " high-falutin" speeches, nor any at
tempt to fill empty beUies Avith flowery promises ; neither did
I preach impossible Adrtues for impracticable vices ; but, if
imbuing men Avith self-re.spect, organizing resistance to trained
outrages, exercising a Avise and strict impartiality in my offi
cial duties, restraining the vicious and brutal, visiting the sick
and needy, and mitigating to the extent of my po\ver, the
rigor and severity of their keepers, are to be counted as indices
of kindly feeling, I Avill proudly exhibit my record against
anv man in that prison from Atwood to Doav, including
Streight. As a ieehleaddend.um to this charge of Doav's, I Avould add
the stLitement of his humble coadjutor. Corporal Taylor, who,
adds, 6)1 jj«.s.sfi)(/, "that he saAv Col. Saxderson very intimate
Avith some of the Rebel officers, and appeared to have private
coiiA'ersations AAdth them, but does not knoAv Avhat passed upon,
those occasions." My ansAver to this charge, other than a ref
erence to the testimony of A'ery nearly CA'cr}- Avitness, is sim
ple and brief. Extending to me the courtesy of gentlemen, I
did not feel called upon to repel the politenesses of my keep
ers, or destroy my influence for good by an unnecessary or
impolitic coolness. Intimate Avith Southern peculiarities, I
knew that a courteous demeanor and gentlemanly address
carried much weight with them, and as I had everything to
gain and nothing to lose by such conduct, I did not care to
depart from my usual manner of meeting strangers, especiaUy
as. I did not dream that my loyalty required Corporal Taylor's
stamp to prcA-ent its being deemed counterfeit. That I did
not take this felloAv into my confidence, and make him a par
ticipant in my private conversations, arises, possibly, from

6^
some " old-fogy" ideas as to, thq fitness of things, and adi&i
tinction betAA'esn an officer and his subordinateis. I Avould re^
spectfuUy suggest, hoAvever, that, that intimacy could nothaA-e
been of a very secret character .whichiAvas carried on in open
air, withiu the scope of a thousand prying eyes.
The second charge against me is, ','. Cruelty to Federal pris»,
oners." This accusation, I confess, pains me as greatly as it
astonishes. From my earliest manhood accustomed to com^
mand, with the right to punish,, and the poAver to reward, I
did not find, on entering the army, that awkwardness in dealr.
ing Avith those under me so incident to those unused to con
trol others. For many years at the head of a large hoteL
where system was a necessity and obedience obligatory, I
have always been regarded as strict, but just, as seA'ere but
impartial, ever ready to recognize and reward merit, and
equaUy prepared to resent impertinence or disrespect, and
punish disobedience or laxity. Were it necessary, I could
bring a thousand testimonials from my former employees,
both black and white, but few of whom Avould speak of me as
other than kind and merciful.. Striving through life "to do unto
others as I Avoald have them do unto me," I would not strike
an enemy when down, or hold m-alice against any one confess
ing his fault. I have never taken the life of any living thing
s ave a rat or a fly, and if there is any cruelty in my character
or composition it has been but lately developed. Hasty and
passionate, I know mA^self to be, but nnjust or brutal — never .'¦
E mphatic in my language, and strong in my denunciations nn
der a feeling of wrong or injustice, I have, neA'ertheless,
schooled myself of late years to avoid, almost entirely, profane
or vulgar expressions, judge then of my astonishment on
leaniing, through Brigadier General Xeal Dow, that in my
intercourse with our soldiers I was "always harsh and cmel,'*
and accosted them habitually " with oaths, curses and bitter
revijings,"' eausing many of them " to be bucked and gagged'*
for what ? From all I can gather, after scrutinizing the vari
ous specifications nnder this head, it Avas simply because these
Boor- fellows applied to me for clotbing. Pray, for Avhat else
was I there ? If the distribution of these, articles was so pain^

64
ful why did I not retire from the dreadful task or caU upon
one or more of my colleagues to aid me? I Avas not
-obliged to retain the position one instant longer than
was agreeable, nor would my brother officers in that Commit
tee have permitted me to exercise the power invested in me,
ihad rny barbarities been so gross or so [patent as my enemy
would have you believe ? Cols. Boyd, Hunter, Von Schrader
and Archer, are not only gentlemen but loyal and brave men,
and I cannot believe nor dare Neal Doav say, that they would
passively have submitted to such cruelty on my part, or have
consented to serve in any capacity Avith such a brute. With
them my intercourse Avas constant, confiding and intimate, and
I have yet to hear from any of them a word of condemnation
'Or rebuke, although Ave had frequent discussions and differ
ences as to our official duties and policy. If these gentle.men
were as cognizant of my misconduct, as Xeal Dow Avould im
ply, I Avould unhesitatingly brand them as coAvards and base
accomplices in acts raore reprehensible than those of our ac
cursed foe — than Winder himself.
And may I not, very pertinently, ask here Avliy Brigadier
General Xeal Doav himself, supported by his high rank, forti
fied by his irrepressible philanthropy, and never-to-be-too-
loudly vaunted patriotism, and backed by a thousand loyal men;
Avliy did not he arrest mein this uninterrupted course of cruel
ty and inhumaiiity ? " An ounce of prevention is worth a
pound of cure," and Avith my outspoken and persistent advo
cacy of the doctrine of " respect for rank,'' he had every
assurance that I Avould hear, if I did not heed ; that I Avould
answer, if I did not obey. Why not then have sought by pro
tests and by complaint to haA'e placed some limit to my un
equalled barbarity, my inexcusable crime ?
Thus much for generalities.
Let me now examine in detail :
And first on the record comes my unfortunate act of kick
ing Berry. This affair I have already recounted at great
length, and will only refer to it to repeat my acknoAvledge-
ments of its error, and express my deep regret at its occur
rence, and say in alt sincerity that

65
" If hearty sorrow-
Be a sufficient ransom for offence,
I tender it here."
The next item is as follows : —
" One poor felloAv, barefooted, asked for shoes ; and received
curses instead — Capt. Atwood saAv this. The next day but
one, Capt. AtAvood saw the same man brought out in a blank
et, with his feet badly frozen ; I think, he suffered amputa
tion." To answer this charge, I freely aver I find my knowledge
of language too Aveak or my feelings too strong. To have
concocted such a tale demanded a vindictiveness of hate andi
a fertility of imagination only to be found in the darkest,
ages and the Avarmest clime ; and when I characterized the-
nature of the charges against me in my letters to my friends,.
" as comprising every crime from petty larceny to constructive
murder," I claim to be strictly within the limits of truth. With
the knoAvledge that death must inevitably await the victim of
such an operation, under the then existing scarcity of proper
remedies in Richmond, General Neal Dow, in one single line,
only exceUed the Parthian by dipping his pointed barb in
thrice distilled poison. He may be a philanthropist ; he may
even be honest, as the world goes ; but, if he be a Christian,
I beseech him to turn to the Decalogue, and treasure up that
sacred command, " Thou shalt not hear false tvitness against thy
neighbor." Fortunately for me, both time and testimony flatly contra
dict this most foul accusation.
1st. Sergeant Toland SAvears that I never refused shoes to
a barefooted man, except for causes which he enumerates.
2d. Captain AtAvood halving ceased to visit Belle Island, on
or before the 20th of December, and all the testimony con
curring that the first cold night did not occur until Christmas
eve, four days after, Capt. AtAvood's vieAV of this unfortunate
man must have been in his own diseased imagination.
3d. Those men who surroundied me,, ami Avoald have bee»

66
most likely to have knoAvn the-truthof such a statement, unite
in declaring thatthey never heard of such an incident.
As I cannot believe that your Honorable Commission can
regard this artfully contrived accusation in any other light
than I do, I Avdlnot occupy your time by further argument,
but will proceed to the next in order.
"His intercourse Avith the soldiers, Avas always with oaths,
and curses, and bitter revOings. Many of these poor fellows
he caused to be bucked and gagged. And this to half starved
and half-frozen men Avho had left friends, business, and com
fortable homes, in some cases luxurious homes, to help
save their country from being blotted out from the map of
Nations. Many of these men Avere educated gentlemen."
Next to the denial of my utterance of disloyal sentiments,
either by condemning 1113' own Government, or upholding that
of our eneiny, no contradiction is so emphatic or so unanimous
as that Avhich refers to my using profane, vulgar, or abusive
language. Capt. Charlier, a high-toned, polished Frenchman,
educated in the best French Theological Colleges, and about
to. take holy orders, Avhen news of this rebellion reaching him
in Italy, induced him to forego the sacred calling to engage in
one almost as holy, tells you in his statement that, " Unless I
except the use of the Avord " damn," I never heard Lt.-Col.
Sanderson make use of profane or vulgar language. He Avas
ahvays refined in his intercourse Avith me, or with others in my
presence. I even thought him religiously inclined." To appre
ciate at its full value, this temperate but strongly worded evi
dence, your Honorable Commission should see t.he deponent
as I have seen him, rebuking in firm but courteous terms the
profane and beastly horde that oftimes made night hideous
with their scurrility and cursing. In Avords of fire I have
heard him denounce the scoffer and the infidel, and send them
sneaking, sdently, into tho recesses of their oAvn corrupt
heart for refuge and sympathy,^ drawing forth by his manly
and just indignation the spontaneous applause of every proper-
man. Such words from such la man. carried a weight irresist-

^le to ttie offender, and produced an effect. which was.grate-
"fuUy acknoAvledged by the better class'among us.' That such
a man should feel justified in such praise of me, wpuld fully
repay for any epithets of abuse heaped upon me by aU the
^spurious philanthropists of the age, Avere they ten times more
: active than Neal Doav. Living near me, conversing with me
•almost hourly, and judging me by such criterionsashis skilled
judgment Avould decide, I ask no better testimony, apd can
offer none. ,
Why General Dow should have persisted in fastening upon
ime this unnecessary and ungentle-manly vice, of habitual pro
fanity, I am unable to comprehend, except that it aided him
iin strengthening an otherwise impoverished case, and served
•to round his sentences. Of all that company, he alone, who
¦-" had no intercourse Avith me," has been able to hear these hor
rible imprecations, these soubkilling profanities. Even Corp'l
'.Taylor ignores them, and contents himself with characterizing
imy words as of a sportive nature.
' That I caused some men to be bucked is most true. Why I
-did so has already been stated, and so far from apologizing for
it, I ask your applause. Every account that has yet been
published, every Avitness from among the enlisted men them-
,;selves, Avhether on Belle Isle or AndersonvUle, tell 3'ou of that
band of organized A'-illains, of which no other' gathering 6r
¦community could produce a parallel. Unrestrained by any
.law human or divine ; unfettered by any principle of honor or
patriotism ; nnterrified by the resistance of the' vigorous or
the groans of the Aveak ; unmoved by imprecatio'ns or prayers ;
they proAvlcd through the encampment like human A^ampires,
^sucking the life-blood of their associates, and intent only on
iplunder and rapine. Such men I bucked. I could only pun-
.ish them hbmeopathically ; their comrades, Avhen A'csted
with the power, treated them more allopathically — they hung
.them 1 Had Gen. Neal Dow been called upon, he Avould have
tried moral suasion, or made a speech' to them: which Avould
.fea 'have been considered niore cruel — lie or I? Are these
;tl!ke men, " some of them educated Jfgehtlemeh, Avho had left
.'ftiehds, basiness, and homes — in some cages; luxurious homes,^'

68
for whom you are asked to shed your tears ? Jail-birds, bounty-
jumpers, and assassins 1
" On one occasion, (a cold day,) a squad of men, half starved,
and pinched with cold, came out for clothes. At the head of
the line, to be served first, was a soldier — curled up and shiv
ering — his hands in his poor apologies for pockets. With
oaths and curses, Sanderson demanded, why he did, not take
the position of a soldier ; and drove the poor wretch to the
tail of the line — to Avait a long hour or two, as a punishment."
•
In corroboration of this, Ave find in Corp. Taylor's statement
the foUoAving : —
"Have seen Col. Sanderson standing with Rebel officers
when some of the Union prisoners Avould approach Avith their
hands in their pockets, in rags and tatters ; and Col. Sander
son, instead of commiserating their situation, would seem to
make sport of them, and order them to take their hands out
of their pockets."
These Iavo paragraphs may be included under one Specifica
tion ; and, as the offence charged is the same, I will consider
it as an unity. As I have already stated, the men were brought
out before me in squads, rarely exceeding sixty or seventy.
Their names having been already enrolled, it was not at all
unlikely that the first called would be found at the end of the
line instead of the head. As every one passed up in front, he
received the usual caution to " take his hands out of his pock
ets, and assume the position of a soldier." Having the accu
rate state of his Avardrobe recorded opposite to his name, it
required hardly half a minute to issue the order for the neces
sary articles ; and, as Brig. Gen. Powell assures you, that "he
could not but admire the prompt and systematic manner" in
which I performed this business, you must take it for granted
that he at least found no fault Avith that portion of my conduct.
With eight thousand men awaiting my motions, I was forced
to be brief and decisive; and at no time was a single squad be
fore me " a long hour or two," or in fact ever over half an hour.
But, in the very midst of my duties, I never lost sight of my
position, nor permitted willful disrespect to pass unnoticed.
Having been informed of their duty, nothing but absolute

69
deafness could justify, or positive obstinacy account for a non
compliance. An enlisted man, able to drag himself into the
presence of a commissioned officer, under any plea whatever,
is quite strong enough to stand in his presence in the position
of a soldier. When they were brought before me by the aid
of others, I waived form aud ceremony and attended to them
at once ; but to a man able to walk unsupported, I have yet
to learn that keeping his hands in his pockets is either an aid
or a curative. Nor do I recognize any lawful order of a supe
rior as implying degradation, in its performance, to the inferior.
If that order is lawful, it is proper ; and the very first section
of the first article of the Army Regulations expressly requires
that " all inferiors should obey such orders strictly, and exe
cute them with alacrity and good faith." But says my " war
ranted" accuser, •' Col. Sanderson would use harsh language
towards them." When once convinced that a man could hear
an order, his refusal to obey it was an insult Avhich I resented
in anything but a deprecatory tone and subdued manner; and
the very fact of my being in the presence of an enemy would
have incited me to shoAV him that, if t.he private forgot his
duty, the officer did not : and so Corp. Taylor discovered at a
very early stage of his acquaintance Avith me. There are offi
cers prone to implore men to do their duty, and I have even
witnessed some exercising that method; but, I frankly confess
that the only feeling I Avas inspired Avith, was a desire to re
verse their positions, quite satisfied that I should have the :
right man in the right place.
" Occasionally," says Corp. Taylor, " a man or so would
come out and ask for particular articles; and I have heard
Col. Sanderson repeatedly use harsh language towards them
ahd order them away, calling them ' dirty fellows.' "
The very fact of a man coming out occasionally to ask for a
particular article, was a disobedience of orders and in direct .
conflict with system and discipline. Laying out the Avork for ,
each day, I only carried with me the papers necessary for. that ;
work; and, unless a man was in very great need, ov suffering ,
tfom great debility, no partiality could justly be sh<?wn with

out producing inextricable confusion;- and" so thej' were. ittr
formed. If persistent in their application, effectual meansi
were taken to remove the annoyance. As to my calling some*
of them "dirty fellows," I cannot deny it; and I regretted!
then as uoav the necessity for such an epithet; but, as ihey
were the exception to the general rule and were literally en
titled to the designation, without, in my opinion, a legitimate^
cause for their filthiness, I do not offer any apology for the ap
pellation, excepting that they Avere very dirty fellows,, andl
alike a disgrace to themselves and at nuisance to their com
rades. Had there been no appliances for cleanliness, my re
proaches Avould have been unjust; but, with a broad river-
laving the very confines of their camp, to which they had con
venient and frequent access, there Avas no justification in their
presenting themselves before me in a condition of beastly filth_
That some men are inherently dirty admits of no denial; hence-.
that section of Article 13, Rev. Army Reg. referring thereto..
Even among the commissioned officers in Libb}^, there Avere..
those among us especially designated by the title of " Dirty
This," or " Dirty That."
After declaring that he had heard me order some of the
men to be bucked. Corporal Taylor proceeds to say : " The;
reason Avhy he ordered them bucked, as he supposes, was, that
they had sold some of their clothing for the purpose of obtain-r
ing food." That any man may sell his blanket for subsistence,..
under an extreme pressure of hunger, I can readily understand,,
but that his comrades should suffer on account of his improvi
dence, I am not prepared to admit. Had my stock been un
limited, the choice betAveen food and raiment might have en
tered into my calculations,' but with the materials placed at'
my disposal, no such choice was permitted me ; and as this
abuse had grown to great proportions, the Corporal himself ad
mitting that "a considerable number ofthe Rebel guard were
clothed in the United States clothing, much of which Avas ob
tained from the Union soldiers." I felt it was my duty to put.
3 stop to it in some way, especiaUy as those who sold their*
own clothing did not hesitate to ^ steal from their comrade*'
-rtrhen opportunity presented ;. atid- although 'I punished Only^

TI
the most flagrant cases brought to my notice, I am, h(^verthe^-
less, denounced as a tyrant by this mOst patriotic soldier.
But it Avas not all exchanged by the men, says this vera--
cious Avitriess, for '" he saAv Col. Sanderson give some of i't"
aAvay to the Reb'els," especially an over-coat to one man. This-'
statement is " a lie but of the Avhole cloth," and is directly-
contradicted both by Mr. Toland and Mr. Saurman, the only-
clerks I have thus far been able to reach.
The great poet tells us, ¦
" That in the captain's but a choleric word,
" T-F/tic/i in the soldier is flat blasphemy,"
but, in these leveling times, they Avould have us proclaim.
" That a virtue in the private rank, ivhich in the officer is gross
treason." The soldier may clothe the Avhole Rebel guard Avith
out reproach, but his superior must not even exchange good
words, lest his loyalty be questioned. For my own part, I
can recollect of no incident on which such a charge could be
based, unless some one of the Rebel non-commissioned officers
may have been permitted to change a coat already purchased
from some of our men. But even this is mere supposition on iny
part, and someAvhat improbable, as many of the guard were pun
ished at my instance, for carrying on this traffic, Avliich at one
time became so crying a shame as to excite criticism even in
the Confederate prints.
" Col. Sanderson seemed to have no patience with them, he
seemed to use them more like brutes than men."
For a refutation of this calumny, I refer your Honorable
Commission to the testimony of CA-ery man or officer Avho'
speaks to that point, and were it possible for me to compel the
attendance of every man confined On that Island, I would over-'
Avhelm you Avitli evidences of my personal kindness and great
patience with these unfortunate victims of Southern cruelty.
With but a verj' limited amount 'of money, comparatively,'
four hundred dollars in greenbacks, most of it borrowed for
the express purpose, I lent various sums to officers and mehy.
ai moiety of which I shall'never see again ; and not a day passed
oiver my head that I 'did not effect or- attempt some act -of'

T2
Mndness for these unhappy and improvident creatures.- The
true character of my conduct in this respect, however, can
never be arrived at save by the searching scrutiny of a Court
<of Inquiry, and I must content myself in this case by disprov
ing alleged vice without aiming to establish ,'positive virtue.
..Nevertheless, I would particularly point you to the statements
of Sergeant Toland, Avho is endorsed by Gen. Meade ; Private
Saurman, Sergeant Pe.ttys, and Private Morgan, endorsed by
Lt.-Col. Northcott, and to the statements of those officers Avho
took the pains to examine the men on the Island for the ex
press purpose of ascertaining the truth on this point.
Let me uoav call A'our attention to the third charge of this
most extraordinary indictment. " Misappropriation of stores
sent by the Government, or by the Sanitary Commission."
To support it we have tAvo specifications. One from Corporal
Taylor, Avliich has already been fully ansAvered ; the other by
Gen. X^eal Doav, in these words : " The U. S. Sanitary Com
mission sent a great quantity of supplies to me, for distribu
tion, but the Rebels put them into the hands of Col. Sander
son. Only a small part of them was distributed. I am confi-
de:-it that a part of them Avas given to the Rebels by Colonel
Sanderson, besides Avhat they stole, and Col. Sanderson ap
propriated to his own use a case of egg-nogg, that Avas mark
ed for the hospital."
Of all the petty acts of this petty man, this is the pettiest ;
and, like the Avasp, it carries its sting in its tail. Were this
the only charge against me, I would treat it Avith the ridicule
it deserves, placing before you in its most ludicrous hght, the
enormous offence involved in the charge — that of robbing
Neal Dow, the great Apostle of Temperance and Chief-Advo
cate of Cold Water, of his egg-nogg !
" Almost as bad, good mother,
As kill a king, and marry with his brother."
But added as it is to others of such grave import, " the irre
pressible spirit of fun," which generally actuates me, is
silenced, and I can only ansAver it in sober sadness.
One of a Committee of Five, which Gen. Doav takes especial
care to ignore, I Avas specially assigned to the distribution of

clothing on Belle Island, leaving to Lt .-Colonels Von Schrar
der and Hunter, and Capt. Chamberlain, the exclusive care
of the prisoners in the Avarehouses and hospitals, and to Lt.-
Col. Boyd entire control of the accounts. At first it was in
tended that all the Sanitary Commission supplies should ba
exclusively reserved for the sick, and for a long time this in
tention was scrupulously observed ; but for reasons which I
either never knoAv, or have forgotten, it Avas suddenly deter
mined by the other members of the Committee, during my
absence, to divide them equally among the officers of the
prison, Avho Avould be expected to pay to the Sanitary Com
mission, on their release, the cost of the articles allotted to
them ; and one of my messmates, Capt. Fobes, a commissary of
subsistence, Avas selected, at the recommendation of Col. Von'
Schrader, and without my knowledge, as the most suitable
person to transact this business.
A day or tAvo previous to this, however, happening to go to
the room used by my colleagues for business purposes, and in
which the choicest of these supplies were stored, I noticed a
case of egg-nogg was broken open, and several bottles taken
therefrom. Turning to one of the committee — Col. Hunter,
I think — and Capt. Monroe, tho Rebel officer in charge, I
asked permission to take that box, agreeing to refund its cost
to the Commission Avhen released. To this Captain Monroe ,
acceded, provided I would give him a receipt, which I did, in-
duplicate, and carried the box myself to the prison, when I
returned to my quarters. This article, as Capt. Fobes Certi-'
fies, was charged to me, and I was prepared on reaching home
to pay for it, but was informed that the Commission declined
to receive pay, and I therefore spent the amount at the Fair
held for its benefit subsequently in New- York. Like every
other article of luxury, such as condensed milk, canned meats,
preserved fruits and jellies, and other articles of similar char
acter, the box was branded "Hospital Supplies," or words to
that effect ; at least that is my impression ; and as all these
articles Avere fairly distributed among my fellow prisoners,
particularly Neal Dow and Col. A. D- Streight, I did not then,
vm now consider piyself personally amenable to the charge of

robbing the sick'. But this little matter of division is not the
ohly incident that appears to have escaped the recollection- of
my A-irtuous antagonist. One or tAvo other points, to Avhich I
will call his attention and that of your honorable Commission,
are equally ignored.
1st. These supplies Avere never, for one instant, in my hands
or under my control ; consequently I could not have given
any portion, large or small, to the Rebels. In fact, it Avas only
from the Rebels themselves that Ave could obtain any of them
for any purpose Avhatever ; and in parting Avith them, more
than the usual amount of red tape Avas employed, the Avliole
thing being too good to part Avith easily. I haA-e not the
slightest doubt that many articles Avere used by them, but it
would liaA'e been an insult to me to a.-^k my leaA'e to take
stores OA-er Avhich I had no command.
2d. A A-ery large share of these sujDplies was consumed in
the hospitals, the store-rooms of each being filled with them
on the onl}' tAvo occasions I A'isited those institutions; and, as
Col. LeFavour states, "he received quite a quantity of the
stores from Capt. Fobes; and, as far as he is aAvare, cdl oi the
officers received a portion of them." And Capt. Fobes him
self testifies : •' Gen. Doav also receiA-ed a large supply of
stores, and gaA'e his acknoAvledgements for the same."
3d. Considerable stress being laid by Gen. Doav on the fact
of the article appropriated by me being egg-nogg, it is fair to
presume that this nuAvonted solicitude on his part arose from,
his fear of my making an improper use of it. I, therefore,
deem it my duty, in order to allay all anxiety in the mind of
this distinguished Temperance Apostle, that this mixture (as
prepared for the Sanitary Commission) contains no liquor !
He also complains that I appropriated it to my own use. This
is true : I did use it oii the spot! Had I been amore provident
and systematic rascal, 1 would have brought it home with me. '
To say more of this matter Avould perhaps invest it with-
lihdue importance, but as Gen. Neal Dow has criticised my
8te-«rardship'so'sev6rely,.might I net-properly -scrutinize his-in

ft
rfttnrn; even if, in doing so, I should be forced tb descend to
h*fs OAvn loAV arena ? But were I to tell you that, in making
tnis exaiaination, I had discovered this honest and patriotic
officer, entrusted by a noble charity as its almoner and 'fidu
ciary agent with the distribution of its much prized munifi
cence, to a band of noble and suffering comrades, had " appro
priated to his OAvn use" a large amount of the most needed.
article; and, Avh list revelling in a superfluity, had coolly re
garded his unfortunate fellow-prisoners, during an inclement
season, painfully passing the Aveary hours on the bare floor-^
dr, Avorse yet, " sitting up all ' night" to avoid the possible
contingency of freezing to death, you might justly 8.uspect me
of AA'ilfuUy Avronging this excellent man. But, should I go a
step further and declare that this Avorld-wide philanthropist —
this national Reformer, overlooking the pressing needs of those
who surrounded him — "men half starved and half frozen, who
had left friends, business, and comfortable homes — in some
eases, luxurious homes, to help save their country from' being
blotted out from the map Of nations— many of them educated
gentlemen," — that this eloquent and loyal enthusiast, gushing-
with tears of pity and sobs of Avoe ; ignoring the immediate
necessities of his brother officers had knoAvingly " and Avith
malice aforethought," brought away with him irom that dismal
and cheerless den subsistence, clothing, and medicine to this'
a land of plenty, overfloAving Avith milk and honey, you Avould
pironounce the charge incredible and the emanation of a
warped judginent and distorted mind.
But,' situated as I am, I Avould not have dared suspect such
an act, had not Gen.' Neal Doav himself given the clue ; but,
oh reading in his speech delivered at the City Hall in Port
land, that "he had brought ivfo large trunks awayAvith him,"
and unable to comprehend how' anything possessed ' of thfe^
least soul could Avillingly deprive his' cornrades — much less, his
messmates,' of anything conducive to their coirifort, whether'
bdokfej subsistence, ' or clothing, - 1' Avas induced to make th'e
in'qiliry iti my ebrrespohdencfe AVitli niy brother officers, and
S6'-iv:pffe^(3fit your Honorable Coriiinissi6nA'('it'h'the result.'' TMs
'diffictllty' bfet\'f?een''Glen.' Dow atid myself K&'s n<!)t' been bf'«(S^'

seeking. Not liking him or his antecedents, I avoided him.
Having enough of my OAvn business to attend to, I had na
time to devote to "his. sayings and doings;" and, although I
never considered him an honor to the cloth, I^ did not deem
it my duty to act the spy upon his actions in order that he
might " be dismissed the service." Even when warned against
him and his black list, conscious of no wrong, I entertained no
fear; and even noAv, Avhen forced to repel his gratuitous as
saults and measure character for character, I exhume his bad
acts and anatomize his defects, as a surgeon would a corpse —
disliking the task, but necessitated by love of science or trufii
to endure the odor.
But Avho accuses him of this meanest of meannesses ? Col.
Rodgers, Col. Williams, Col. FarnsAvorth, Capt. Timony, Lt.
Lennig, and last and strongest, Capt. Hamlin. As you do not
probably knoAv this officer, let me explain why I emphasize
his name. When our chaplains, thinking after the comforts
of home, and " the flesh-pots of Egypt," left us sick and sad,
weary and in prison, Avithout a spiritual adviser or religious
guide, a few gentlemen, humble " soldiers of the Cross,"
emerged from their obscurity, and mddestty but firmly avoAved
themseh-es followers of Him, Avho never deserts the needy
and penitent, and is to be found more frequently in the cot
of the loAvly than in the temples of the great. These men,
the only links between ourselves and Christianity, in earnest
and sincere Avords, nightly sent forth their prayers to the
Oreat Deliverer for freedom from bondage, and besought us
in gentle and persuasive terms to put our trust in Him.
"Visiting every room in turn, the hardiest ruffian and the
greatest disbeliever refrained from interference, and respect
ed, if they did not heed them. Among, them were Powell,
Northcott, Whitesides, and Hamlin — brave officers in the
cause of Freedom, they were true soldiers in the cause of
Crod. Serene in temper and equable in mind, they stood un
moved amid the crash of character and the fiood of slandeJ
that filled and permeated those prison halls, and whilst at
tentive to their own affairs, Avere ever ready to give a helping
liand to others. Such men, trathfal themselves, despise the

"77
hypocrite, and manfully battle foi'- the right, whether in pub-
lid or private life. Frohi one of them we have these Avords :
" I was well acquainted with Gen. Neal Dow. I saw him
take from the prison two trunks, Avhen he left for the North. :
"I saw him pack the trunks. He did put some blankets in
them. " The number of blankets General Doav saw fit to take up
to Maine Avith him, I don't exactly knoAV. I heard it Avas
fourteen. I know he took several I"
Capt. Hamlin slept within ten feet of Gen. Neal Dow,
and had this knowledge thrust upon him ; he did not spy it
out. Sterne it was, I believe, who passed a starving beggar to
sentimentalize over a dying jackass ; but it is left to Neal
Doav to ignore the real sufferings of his brother officers, under
his OAvn eye, to bewail the imaginary Avoes of men he never
saw. Having already directed his attention to " Holy Writ," let
me now britig to his notice the next best book — Shakspeare ;
wherein, if he seeks, he will find this passage, Avhich I advise
him " to read, mark, learn, and inAvardly digest :"
" Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot
That it doth singe yourself : we may outrun
By violent swiftness that Avhich we run at,
And lose by overrunning."
I now approach the most important and most damning
charge, one Avhich has floAvn to the nethermost corners of the
earth, on lightning Avings, proclaiming- me to all humanity, a
tainted and accursed traitor. Born of an accident, it Avas cov
ertly taken, and carefully nursed by my enemies, Avho ingeni
ously concealed its groAvth, until circumstances enabled them
to present it full-fledged, its first appearance in public having
been skillfully manipulated by hints, inuendoes, and anonymoufe
advertisements^ During the month of November, 1863, Dr. Spencer, Streight's
own Surgeon, was released, and the first result of his libera
tion was a fulsoBae report, of his leader's great raid (?) and a

%8 I
quiet little paragraph intimating that a certain well-knoAj^n
" Union Lieut.-Colonel had frustrated a plan of escape by dis
closing it to the Confederates." In the month of February,
'64, a long statement Avas pubhshed in the Washington Star,
and copied in most of the leading journals, graphically por
traying the hardships of those Avho had escaped through the
tunnel, and describing at full length the scene supposed to
have taken place in Libby Prison, when it Avas found out that
a certain Union Lieutenant-Colonel had betrayed our plan of
escape to the Rebels, 7iot one tvord oi Avhich Avas true. At the
moment of this publication but little hopes of an exchange
were entertained, and the conspirators had CA-ery reason to ex
pect ample time for the full development of their machinations.
Col. Streight, the foster parent of this charge, having escaped,
himself took the field, and on every occasion, and in every
place, from the private office of the Secretaiy of War to the
festal board of the Loyal League Club, elaborated and detailed
my great crime. At the very moment AA'hen the poison was
Avorking strongest, I made my appearance, and in the very first
stopping place, Annapolis, learned that certain Doctors had
been circulating reports injurious to my character some time
back. On reaching Washington more definite information
was given me, and by dint of exertion I succeeded in obtaining
my first experience " under arrest." After months of labori
ous effort, I have at length gained a knoAAdedge of this foul
accusation, and find it Avorded thus, (the italicshemg roy own):
" Early last fall, ive had arrangements nearly perfected for
breaking out and capturing the City. We liad about 1,000
officers and almost 10,000 soldiers tliere, and Avere carelessly
guarded. Suddenly we saw two pieces of artillery planted
near and bearing on w-s, and some companies of soldiery sta
tioned in front of the prison. Soon tve learned that Col. San
derson had betrayed us to the Rebels. The indignation of
the officers Avas very great, but it Avas finally allayed upon as
surances that there Avas no intention of communicating the se
cret beyond our oavu officers in the hospital. Of these matters
I am not personally cognizant, but think Col. Streight Avill be
able to substantiate them."
WiU it be believed, gentlemen, that at this very instant of

time Brigadier-General Neal Dow, who "vyrites as if he was
present, was just one thousand niiles distant froni the location
¦of the scene so clearly described ? "VYould. it be,, deemed pos
sible, in this age, Avhen an officer's Avordis con8id.<Jred equal to
his oath, that any one holding such rank Avould deliberately
set doAvn and Avrite this most cruel statement as, having oc-
cilrred under his oavu eye, Avhen, at the very moment he Avas
80 far distant that no knoAvn mode of locomotion in that coun
try could have transported him short of three days ? To, be
sure, he says, " I am not personally cognizant of these mat
ters," but is it the custom of truthful or just men thus to
speak, Avhen every Avord they utter, based on their high
position, is calculated to destroy a fellow-creature's char
acter ? " Who ?tabs my name would stab my person too,
"Did not the hangman's axe lie in the way."
That a general officer, engaged in the service of his country,
should so far demean hunself, is Iam proud to say, an anomaly;
and Neal Doav did well Avhen he resigned a commission he
knew so little hoAv to appreciate. That he Avas not cognizant
of the matters he here speaks of, would be very apparent had
I been able to obtain a statement from Col. Cesnola, but as
that officer declines to inform us on tlie points in question, of
-which he alone can speak by the book, I must depend upon
others not so deeply versed in the details, to show hoAv little
he did knoAV. From all the testimony I have been able to
obtain, it appears that there Avas a very great diversity of
sentiment as .to all the plans of escape. What, in my opinion,
¦was deemed thoughtful, feasible, and facile of execution, is
branded by another as "Avild and impracticable ;" while Avhat
-was esteemed bold and daring by some, was in the judgment
of others " fool-hardy and murderous." The plan, that Avas
ih reality meant to be disclosed, -yvas undoubtedly that des
cribed in my narrative, and my impression is, from all I can.
learn, that it leaked out through one Vermillion, a Union
prisoner who was acting as hospital attendant, and learned it
from Capt. Skelton, whilst in the hospital.

It is cleai: that Mr. Vermillion was possessed of none of the
precise details, as the measures taken by the confederates
fully revealed. How much Capt. Skelton told to Yermillion,
whom Ave then regarded as a trustworthy loyal man, I do not
know, but it seems certain that Vermillion could only liave
had a general vicAv of the proposed plan, or else the open and
active means to redress the attempt would not have been
employed by the rebels in October, to quell an outbreak to
culminate in December. I had hoped to receive Capt. Skel-
ton's statement ere this, he having volunteered it on hearing
of my arrest in Washington, but for reasons unknown to me
it has not yet reached me, although I hope to be able to file
it before my case is adjudicated, having not only written to.
him but advertised for him.
Again, if I were the traitor Gen. Doav insinuates, would I
not have betrayed the whole secret, and in a way to benefit
the rebels ? As it Avas they were simply misled, and we in
no way injured. And yet again, if the arrangements were.
only nearly perfected, how Avere they frustrated ? If Ave had
no intention of breaking out then, in what respect Avere we
damaged by the untimely demonstration of our keepers?
And last of all, Avhat Avas I to gain by this act of treachery ?
Men do not sacrifice all they hold dear for a whim. Nor wiU
any sane man abandon name, honor, family and friends, with
out some compensating benefit. Every one they say has his
price, but I have yet to hear at what figure I Avas purchased^
I have been told since my liberation, that it Avas reported!
that I enjoyed unusual privileges — that I had the freedom of'
the City — that I was hand in glove with Jeff Davis and all
the magnates ofthe Confederacy, — that in fact, I Avas having
an unusual good time, and rather liked it than not. If to be
cribbed, cabined, and confined with one thousand others in a
loathsome, unclean and badly ventilated prison, with a soft
plank for my couch, and half rations for my fare, are unusual
privileges, I had them. If, whilst engaged in the duties of
my position, to be hurried throngh by-streets under escort of
an armed guard, who would not permit me to make the com
monest purchase in any store, is enjoying the freedom of a.

81
City, I had it to my heart's content ; and if the strongest in
terest could not avail to get me out of my prison for a few
short hours, to see some life-long friends, is to be hand in
glove Avith the dignitaries of rebeldom, I don't think much of
their friendship, and trust I may never have a second experi
ence. But if these stories have ever been seriously believed,
I here pronounce them unqualifiedly false, in gross and in
detail, and challenge au}^ one to shoAv the slightest advantage
enjoyed by me over my felloAV prisoners, not shared in comr
mon by every other member of the committee.
As to Col. Streight's plan, it AA-as not at that moment, nor at
any other, as far as I can learn, fully decided upon. Rash,
impetuous, and opposed to everything like discipline, none
but those believing in muscle and a free fight could be induced
to enlist under his. banner, especially as many of the realty
courageous officers in the prison, men like Col. Rose, had no
confidence in his courage or stability.
But apart from any argument, let me examine Gen. Doav's
account of my treachery, and hoAV it Avas receiA^ed.
'" Soon tve learned- that Col. Sanderson had betrayed us to
the rebels. The indignation of the officers Avas very great,
but it was finally allayed upon assurances that there Avaii no
intention of communicating the secret beyond our OAvn officers
in the hospital."
What rose-water rage must have filled our baffled
braves, Avho Avhen nearly ready to emerge from a ha
ted and loathsome prison, Avould permit any such reasons
to stand between them and their just indignation 1 Assuran
ces ! from Avhom? And how proven? Had an avalanche of
my injured comrades hurled themselves upon me — one man —
under the influence of such information, and torn me limb
from limb, who would have blamed them ? If an infuriated
crowd, crazed by disappointment, had pressed me on every
side, and Avith a thousand A'oices rained their execrations on
my head, and demanded in tones of thunder the causes of my
base action, who -yvould not have praised them? Had a
<;hOsen few, high-toned, honorable men, clothed in the dignity
of rank and patriotism, and incited by virtuous rage, called

82
upon me and wrung from me the only assurances to be re
ceived on such a point, those of entire innocence, who would not
have commended their moderation and patience ? Could
every officer in that prison be placed before your honorable
Commission and be forced to answer on oath that simple
question : " Did you ever personally charge Col. Sanderson, or
hear any other officer or person charge him with having betrayed
any plan of escape to the Rebels ?" I pledge my soul that not
one of them would, truthfully, reply in the affirmative. And
why not ? Were they all afraid? Could not one Bell-the-Cat
be found among so many heroes, to cram my treacherous
tongue doAvn my recreant throat ? Among that com.pany
of a thousand, they were not all cowards ! Hundreds of them
had "sought the bubble reputation at the cannon's mouth,"
and dared " do all that may become a man," hut they did not
dare do that ! And why ? Because they knew it was a lie !
Unarmed, sickly, and apparently an old man, there Avas noth
ing in my personal appearance, demeanor or antecedents to
strike such terror in martial breasts, or hold them in shivering
awe, whilst discussing Avitli bated breath, my damnable sin.
Nine-tenths of them surpassed me in agility and personal
strength, and yet it does not appear from the statements of
my enemies, or the admissions of nay friends, that this charge
was ever brought to my notice, save by one person, in a very
cursory way, and then almost under a pledge of secrecy, with
the assurance that no one, knowing the brutal source whence
it emanated, attached the slightest credence to it. Powerless
to act, at that moment, decisively and definitively, I was forced
to defer all action until my good fortune should once again re
store me to my OAvn lines, when I proposed. Government per
mitting, to afford this coAvardly calumniator an opportunity of
explaining, before his peers, certain incidents of his oavu miU
tary life and conduct, which in my opinion, required elucida
tion, especially this most flagrant and unsoldier-like act of tra
ducing and defaming a brother officer. That it has been for
the interest, if not absolutely for the preservation of this person,
that he should spare no effort to crush me, admits of no denial;
A long continuance in error and wrong-doing had clearly brought

83
him under the ban of military law. Judging me by himself, and
giving me credit for an inveteracy of hate eqnal to his own, he
could not but believe me in earnest in my expressed intentions ;
and Avas compelled to exercise all the ingenuity of his subtle and
tortuous character to devise my doAvnfaU. Suspected, if not
openly charged, by his command, and publicly denounced by
the leading journals of his oavu party, of a base and coAvardly
surrender of the troops entrusted to his care ; and conscious of
having violated one of the clearest and least disputable para
graphs of our military code, nothing Avas left him but trickery
and falsehood. With the hope, and not a vain one, as it has
subsequently appeared, he sought to cover up the disgrace of
his surrender, by laboriously sought sympathy for his suffer
ings. In every account, industriously circulated throughout
the length andthe breadth ofthe land, harrowing descriptions
were ingeniously foisted, of the sufferings of " Streight and
his men," and so great Avas his anxiety to effect this result
that, Avhere ill-treatment Avas not Avillingly accorded, he Avillfully
sought it. Where any officer permits himself to speak of this
man, Avith but one or two exceptions, he speaks of him dispar
agingly ; and, in but a single instance does he obtain the ad
miration of any one, and in that only case, the compliment is
most questionable. But Col. Streight mistook me. Appreci
ating the demoralizing- efi'ect of such imprisonment, I knew
that many animosities Avere engendered Avhich rapidly disap
peared under the humanizing influences of freedom. Por my
self so grateful Avas the feeling of happiness at my liberation ;
so deep my horror of the evil passions brought to being in
those prison cells ; that I sincerely desired to leave behind
me every sentiment of hate and revenge, save of the common
foe. And even Avhilst there I Avas as ready to forgive as to re
sent an injury, as ready to offer as receive an apology. The
great struggle for the life of a nation gives ample scope and
verge enough for the most contentious spirit, and before the
grandeur of such a conflict all petty and personal differences
sink into insignificance and shrink from the contrast. With
such feelings Col. Streight had but httle to fear from me un
less compelled by duty to attack him, and I Avould even now

84
spare him, Avere I not obliged to expose the cause of his in
tense hatred to me. As to the charge of having disclosed to
any Rebel officer that Streight had organized a plan to break
out and capture the City, I pronounce it an utter falsehood. I
frankly confess that I never believed that Col. Streight had
any plan which he had the courage to carry out, and ifl spoke
of it at all among my comrades, it Avas in the way of a joke or
a sarcasm. But enough of him for the present : his ranking officer claim
ing my attention. Brig. Gen. Neal Doav states that " assur-
ances Avere given that there Avas no intention of communicating
the secret be3'ond our oavu officers in the Hospital:" and, upon
these assurances, the " great indignation" of my felloAV-prisoners
" Avas allayed." If this be true, it is fair to suppose that these
assurances AAdiatever they Avere or by Avhom given, were
deemed sufficiently saiiifactory to induce the parties in inter
est to disbelieve the charge and receive the party accused in
full fellowship again. This being the case, why is that charge
again revived? What right has Gen. Doav, Avho Avas not pre
sent, and Col. Streight, my bitterest enemy, and therefore not
qualified, to dispute a verdict rendered on the spot, and by
those most competent to decide?
I think 1 have said enough to refute this most baseless cal
umny ; but, before dismissing the subject entirely, it AAdll pos
sibly be expected of me to make some specific denial ; but I
can hardly bring myself to the deep degradation of seriously
stating that I was not guilty in thought, Avord, or deed of the
atrocious act laid to my charge. Rather and better might 1
say, Avith old Belarius :
'¦ My fault being nothing (as I have told you oft)
But that Iwo villains, whose false o4ths prevail'd,
Before my perfect honor, swore to Cymbeline,
I was confederate with the Eomans ;''
lest, hoAvever, some carping critic may urge this quibble against
me, I do most solemnly and unequivocally affirm and declare, by
aU I hold most dear here or most sacred hereafter, without
evasion or mental reservation of any kind whatsoever, that I

85
never in any Avay or under any circumstances, knowingly, in
tentionally, or AviUingly intimated, hinted, revealed, or disclosed
any plot, plan, scheme, or intention having for its object or
result the escape, flight, or liberation of any one or more of
my felloAv-prisoners — officers or privates, friend or foe, to any
Confederate officer, official, or citizen. And I do also most sin
cerely and reUgiously believe that no personal distinction or
hopes of present comfort or future aggrandizement would
have induced me to forego or abandon my share in any such
enterprise, could it have been consummated or even attempted
Avith any shoAV of success. To have been the humble origina
tor of so brilliant an achievement Avould have fiUed to the ut
most my most sanguine hopes of glory, and Avould have been
the proudest heir-loom I could have bestoAved upon my family.
There yet remains one other charge which might more
properly be classed under the head of disloyalty, but as it en
genders certain feelings of a personal character, I have re
served it for the present.
" Col. Sanderson was constantly defending the Rebels, and
justifying- them in their treatment of our soldiers, averring
that they Avere properly treated."
When Gen. Neal Dow wrote those lines he knew them to be
false, and when he proceeds to say, " Some of this I heard on
one occasion, and interposed with the facts at Belle Isle,
which existed under his observation," he duplicated the
Avrong. I have endorsed the only truthful statement in his
letter — that there was no intercourse betAveen us, — and can
recollect but three occasions when words of any character
were exchanged. Once Avhen I made a demand for blankets,
next when I reiterated that demand, and last when about
leaving the prison, I transferred to him some medicines for
distribution, a portion of which, I have since been informed,
he brought away with him. Since my liberation I have been
told that he was in the habit of talking at me. If this be so,
'tis pity ; he had his labor for his pains. I heeded him not.
That I sometimes contradicted, and corrected gross errors
and misstatements made by the designing or ignorant is true.
A good cause can never be bolstered by a lie ; whilst a bad

86
one may gain by the misrepresentations of its opponents.
That their conduct to us, as AveU as to the enlisted men was
cowardly, cruel, and unusual among civilized people cannot
be denied ; but their wrong does not justify our Avillful error,
nor will their barbarities excuse our falsehood. Our griev
ances were many, too many, but we Aveakened their force when
we fabricated or overstated them. As a gentleman and man
cf honor, I could not permit my silence to be construed into
tacit acquiescence, and when an egregious error was brought
to my notice, I corrected it as far as I could. That neither
we nor the men were treated, as alleged, as badly as tve coidd
be, is evidenced by the proofs of still greater barbarity visited
upon them since our departure.
Requiring no personal favors from the authorities of the
prison, and obtaining none other than those inseperable from
the necessities of my position, I was only anxious to secure
their good feeling, in order to influence them for the benefit
of others not so fortunate or so provident as myself and that
I did so is so stated hj many of my companions. From long
association fully cognizant of the southern character, I was
aware that an outAvard courtesy and apparent gentlemanly
demeanor Avent far to win their esteem. Accustomed by
years of experience as a hotel keeper to all the observances
of polite society, I found no difficulty in assuming a role by
no means neAv to me. Thanks to my white beard and my
being a stranger I was uniformly treated with kindness and
courtesy by every one I came in contact Avith during my cap
tivity, with the single exception of a difficulty at Culpeper
Avhen a croAvd of citizens and Baltimore roughs proposed to
lynch me because, when charged, I openly avowed myself
" an abolitionist." Carefully avoiding all unnecessary discus
sions on political subjects, outside of the prison, I never hesi-
ted to acknowledge my principles Avhen asked, or defend my
government when challenged.
But in addition to my love of truth, and my desire to stand
well Avith my keepers, there was another reason for my con
duct of a peculiar and personal nature. My wife, with whom
I had lived happily for nearly twenty-five years, had been,

87
•during the earlier portion of my imprisonment, gradually
passing from earth. A cruel and insidious disease was hourly
sapping her life, and every communication from home brought
fresh tidings of her decay. Prime among her griefs, although
racked with bodily pains, was the idea of my sufferings. Im
mured in a loathsome prison, and enduring the horrors, almost
of " the middle passage," as the terrible accounts constantly
published to the world gave her cause to suppose, her days
Avere embittered and her nights disturbed by the thoughts of
my privations, and in the very delirium of death this senti-
-ment was paramount in her mind. Knowing the sorrow this
produced, and feeling how causeless Avas her anxiety, I en-
•deavored in all my letters to dissipate this feeling, writing her
ever in the most consolatory manner both as to my situation
and my health. Everything of the brightest, and whatever
•of the ludicrous could be found, Avas repeated for her benefit ;
but when serious refiection succeeded the pleasure of hearing
from me, her quick perception and ever watchful love would
suspect an imposition, and, whilst thanking me for the senti-
¦ment that dictated the action, would gently reprove me for
the supposed concealment of the truth. And Avith this belief
•she died, ignoring to the very last her own real pains to be
wail my imaginary ones. How in my heart I cursed the
authors of this unnecessary sorrow, and how I despised the
strong men, who, for the sake of an ephem.eral and factitious
notoriety would Avhine over their scanty fare like gluttonous
boys or soured crones, Avhilst needlessly racking the heart
strings of dear ones at home. And such things prate of their
patriotism and vaunt their services, seeking, under cover of a
lie, sympathy for unexperienced sufferings, and recompense
for unendured privations. But they were not all so. Among
that band were many true devoted patriots. Men "who had
¦" left friends, business and comfortable homes, in some cases
•"luxurious homes, to help save their country from being blot-
"' ted out of the map of nations," and had done so with but
little hope of reward or expectation of promotion ; who well
.-and bravely performed their duty, and only asked a successful
Tesult as their guerdon. With sufficient of anger against the

88
deluded fools Avho sought a nation's disruption, they bore no-
personal feeling into a strife Avhich Avas waged for the holy
cause of unity and freedom. Their erring brethren were
only so Avhen engaged in open and deadly acts of rebeUion ;
and although too proud to ask a favor, they knoAV how to
appreciate a courtesy. The field of battle being with them
the only arena of carnage, they did not sheathe their swords
in an imaginary foe, or kill rebels on fools-cap paper.
¦' True courage scorns
'¦ To vaunt her prowess in a storm of words."
For such men I had not only .sympathy, but assistance, and
I can truthfully assert that no one of them ever sought me for
aid in vain. In many cases too modest to ask, or too proud to
acknoAvledge, they have forced me to pry out their secret
sorrows, and share my plenty with them through third
persons. Under these circumstances, and thus placed, Brig.-General
Neal Doav found me on his return. Startled by the dire mis
fortune that was hanging over me, and forced to remember
that all things perish here below, my thoughts could not but
be serious, and my CA-ery hour tinctured Avith sorroAV. Dis
gusted Avitli the frivolous whinings and shallow grievances of
the empty-headed, I shut myself up in the sanctity of my Avoe,
and sought, in that croAvd, to be alone. Content with the few
real friends Avho surrounded me and respected my grief, I
neither courted nor fiattered this "little great man," and tot
an informal request to take him into- companionship, curtly
declined. Unable to appreciate the true sentiments that dictated my
conduct to the enemy, the antagonism between him and myself
Avas instant and perfect. He had never read, or if he had,
would ne'er believe, that —
" Seldom yet did living creature see
" That courtesie and manhood ever disagree."
The slave of an idea, and a firm believer in moral suasioa
" under penalty of the law," he sought to^ stunt all man-

89
kind on the Procrustean bed of his own construction, than
which, in his mind, nothing could be more perfect. Neal Dow
and I, I am proud to say, can have nothing in common, for even
his virtues so resemble vice, that the timid proselyte shrinks
from them in aAvo, and takes another road. Of him may fitly be
said — " He was a man
" AVho stole the livery of the court of Heaven,
" To serve the devil in."
As evidence of the utter dissimilarity between us, I would
respectfully call the attention of your Honorable Commission
to the testimony of my brother ofiicers, and in every case
where they trust themselves to speak of him, it is couched in
as contemptuous language as regard to his high rank will
permit. Prom one we learn that " he had no influence, and Avas often
the subject of ridicule for those Avho forgot his rank in the
general miserj^ that pervaded the prison." By another we
are told that " he was so selflsh, domineering, and 'old-woman
ish' as to be almost universally disliked;" Avhilst from a third
we hear that he Avas not " considered any great honor to the
uniform he did wear — a Captain's coat and a private's panta
loon's, — or the service ; as evidently his 'forte' Avas not that of
a military man, but that of a Temperance lecturer;" a role he
filled so much to his OAvn acceptation, that, as a gallant sailor
tells us, " he lectured twice a week on temperance when even
tvater was most difficult to obtain."
Prom many comes confirmation of a mystical " Black List,"
in which were noted " all the rumors, — of which the prison
was full at all times, — that came to his notice, to the disadvan
tage of Lieut.-Golonel Sanderson, or others, — the former more
particularly," — and "in which he was so anxious to get some
thing to Avrite down that he would get into an argument with
some one, then pick up what little things the man might have
said unwittingly, and book them preparatory to a settlement
after their release."
Truthfully does he say in his " familiar" letter to his supe
rior officer, that he took " great interest in my sayings and

90
doings," and well might he offer to " add a great quantity of
similar matter," when all his days were employed in raking
up slanders against me. To picture him as he was, Avith cap
on sconce and pen in hand, lean, slippered and gowned, shuf
fling from circle to circle, noting Avith curious ear the words of
all, and inscribing with eager haste their " slips and falls," is
far beyond my limning poAver.
" See from behind her secret stand
The sly informer minutes every fault,
And her dread diary with horrors fill."
When the poet termed that thing a woman he slandered
the sex.
Turn to the same testimony, and note how my time was
spent. From all you learn that I was gentlemanly and courteous to
my comrades, and devoted myself to teaching, systematizing,
and organizing that department most necessary for the com
fort and happiness of all, whether in or out of prison.
By nearly all you are told that I was constantly engaged in
ameliorating the condition of my companions by advice, by
influence, by money, and by the necessaries of life.
When a great calamity was being initiated for our cause,
alone, out of six hundred, I sought to convey the announce
ment to my Government, and, lacking strength myself, offered
the sinews of war to my abler associates. History does not
record the name of him who seconded me !
When in its wisdom our Rulers placed in the hands of a
then highly esteemed statesman the poAver to release us, when
in his judgment it could be honorably attained, I was one of
the few that applauded the act, and upheld the weak-kneed
and despairing.
Avoiding political discussions with our enemy as unprofita
ble and unnecessary, I never hesitated to support my princi
ples or defend my Government whon the one were questioned
or the other defamed.
Called to fill a position which had already martyred two
ranking officers, I performed the duties of it to the entire sat-

91
isfaction of my friends and the astonishment of foes, private
as Avell as public ; Avatching carefully over the interests of my
Government, upholding the honor ofthe service, and arresting
the demoralization of my comrades — Avhether commissioned
or enlisted.
Thrown into constant contact Avith the common enemy, I so
carried myself that I won even their respect and esteem,
Avhile the influence gained thereby was exerted in behalf of
my felloAV-prisoners.
In connection Avith this I Avould dilate here on an idea which
had escaped my recollection until recalled by the statement of
Capt. Charlier. Believing that much good could be done to
my brother officers and the soldiers, more especially by any
one thoroughly cognizant of the difficulties in the way of
prompt delivery of our letters and boxes, I sought to obtain
from my fellow-prisoners their signatures to a memorial to the
President of the United States, asking that some one who had
been a prisoner of War in the hands of the Confederates
should be appointed, Avhose whole duty it should be to arrange
and supervise this speciality. Gen. Doav, being the. highest
ranking officer, the paper was presented to him by Capt.
McComas, I think, for his signature. On learning from whom
it emanated, " he declined to interfere with the action of the
Government in the premises." On discovering it was suscep
tible of such an interpretation, the idea Avas immediately dis
missed and the paper destroyed, although it had for a long
time occupied mji thoughts and obtained the approval of many
excellent men, and has been since adopted by the General
Commanding the Armies.
Having thus, as I trust, proven the negative to the charges
of my accusers, let me trench but a moment longer on your
time in displaying the affirmative of my position.
Starting, as it were, from the very camp of the enemy, I
was, in every sense of the word, a Volunteer both in " men and
means," and threw myself into the conflict Avith all the impul
siveness and energy I was possessed of. Skilled in a special
ity which has for its object the preservation, not the destruc
tion, of life, I hastened to place at the disposal of my Govern-

92
ment, at the earliest and most opportune moment, the benefit
of that skiU. Anxious to serve and ambitious to excel, I la
bored late and early to prove my usefulness and the value of
my scheme. FoUed by circumstances over Avhich I had no
control, I wa« forced to recede from my lofty aspirations and
start from a loAvlier rank and on a diminished field. Com-
mencino- almost on the lowest rung of the ladder to fame, I
gradually ascended, by dint of labor and stress of time, until
I attained my past eminence, than which no higher grade was
permitted a Volunteer. But content Avith that position, (as I
trust I always have been in every phase of life,) I only sought
to deserve my honors and falfiU my duty. Stopped short in
my military career by the fortune of Avar, I suddenly found
myself called upon to assume new duties. By no means the
ranking officer among a crowd of untaught and somewhat in
subordinate comrades, I was required to instruct, discipline,
and command. SomeAvhat lacking in seU'-respect and the rem
nant of military subordination still existing in them, sapped by
those Avhose duty and position demanded a better example, I
found myself called upon to direct men who acknowledged no
superior ; discipline officers, Avho regarded no discipline; and
teach equals, too Avise in their own conceit to heed my instruc
tions. Obedient myself, I Avould not brook the contrary in
others ; and, when forced to uphold salutary regulations by
severe lessons, I did not shrink from the responsibility. To im
pose rules which would not be heeded, to give orders Avhich
would not be obeyed, becomes neither a man nor a soldier. I
claim to be both. And yet I challenge any one to say that I
exercised my poAver with partiality or injustice. The horse
man that rides a restive steed has bit and spur at his command,
to be used when necessity compels ; to employ them at any
other time is tyrannical and unwise ; to neglect their assist
ance when required, is foolish or cowardly. Of course, I made
myself unpopular. Colton tells us, " There are two modes of
establishing our reputation : to be praised by honest men, and
to be abused by rogues." I have, at least, achieved the lat
ter. Subsequently selected, against my wiU, to fiU another posi-

93
tion of responsibility and control, I Avas brought into immedi
ate contact with a class of men Avho, of all others, most de
mand firmness, determination, and discipline. Unaccustomed
" To paw the ragged multitude with praise
" Of their ingenuous care and fervent love,
"For preservation of the Commonwealth."
I recognised Avith my military inferiors but one language —
that of command ; and exacted from them but one result, to obey.
Seeking no office and asking no votes, I only strove to fulfill
my duties Avith an eye to the interests of my Government—
of Avhich I Avas, for the moment, the agent ; and over whose
property I had, for the time, almost unlimited control. Deal
ing with beings, many of Avhoni were very wretched and ap
parently lost to everything but the most animal instincts, and
imbued Avith no feeling save that of self-gratification ; regard
ing every one attempting to control or limit their desires as an
enemy ; and entirely oblivious of subordination, respect, or
esprit de corps, I was compelled to awaken in them the dor
mant principles of military requirements, as well for the honor
ofthe service, as the reputation of my section; as Avell for the
security of the good as the punishment of the guilty. But in
doing so I endeavored to act Avitli as much kindness as Avas
compatible Avith command, and require no more etiquette than
Avas perfectly familiar to the least disciplined among them. If
I erred 'tAvas the fault of the head, not the heart. And finally,
when called upon to fulfill the letter but not the spirit of a
promise, Avith but limited means and an indefinite imprison
ment before me — ignorant of Avhence the next dollar Avould
come — I emptied ray pockets and robbed myself of subsist
ence to aid and encourage my needy comrades, who, with all
the strength, lacked the means to avail themselves of promised
freedom from galling chains; and, strange to say, assisted my
arch-enemy himself to find the way to my destruction 1
And, with such a record, I have been disgraced, dishonored,
dismissed ! Unheard and unheeded, my name has been thrown
to the four winds of heaven, and carried to all corners of the
earth, as a traitor — as a brute ! Educated in a school that taught

¦94
that love of country was next to love of God — drawing my
inspiration from him Avho drew his from the very Fathers of our
Gountry* — and sprung from a family that has been honorably
represented in every just struggle our country has been en
gaged in, from the War of the Revolution to the present con
flict, I do not choose to have that name, (as yet unspotted and
unstained,) classed among the dishonored of the land, Avithout
question and Avithout trial.
Well did the poet say :
" Good name, in man or woman, dear my lord,
Is the immediate jewel of their souls ;
Who steals my purse steals trash, 'tis something, nothing,
'Twas mine, 'tis his, and has been slave to thousands ;
But he that filches from rae my good name,
Kobs me of that, which not enriches him,
And makes me poor indeed."
And now, gentlemen, the case is with you. In my own
unskilled, and awkward fashion, heedless of laAV, and asking
only equity, I have my tale unfolded, and in your hands rests
my fate. If three years constant and faithful service, risking
life and limb on every proper occasion, seeking and gaining
the commendation and approval of his commanders, and the
good will and respect of his brother officers ; with his whole
heart engaged in the contest, and no aspirations but his coun
try's honor ; and when called upon to act in an unusual and
extra-official character, endeavoring to conduct himself with
dignity, and service, to his comrades ; and with regard for the
honor of the cloth, and the interests of his government to
his inferiors — entitle an officer to dishonor and disgrace, then
am I fitly punished. But if devotion to a cause brings desert, —
if attention to duty demands countenance, — if zeal in a depart
ment ensures appreciation, — if extra work is entitled to extra
pay,— if a thorough fulfillment, to the best of his ability, of the
duties of his position, and a zealous regard for the rights and

• My father and my uncle (who was my teacher in early life) were publish
ers and editors of that national work, " The Biography of the Signers of the-
Declaration of Independence." o ,

95
honor of his commission, constitute an officer and a gentle
man, I Avould respectfully ask your honorable Commission to
examine the testimony submitted herewith, and to search my
record, and decide whether reward or punishment is more
justly my due.
I had in my mind one more word to say. I thought to
have brought to your notice the consequences of your decis
ion on those who bear my name and share my blood, but when
I reflect that the babe unborn is not more innocent of the
criraes alleged than I, I refrain.
'•'The purest spring is not so free from mud
As I am clear from treason."
If I have erred in anything I am man enough to bear the
penalty, but if I have done no wrong I ask no condonation.
I come to you for Justice, not as a favor but as a right. I am
sure you will give it to me, and in that trust I reniain,
Very respectfully, your ob't serv't,
JAMES M. SANDERSON.

Official Report
or THE
IVEIHTAH^^ COlVIlVIISfSIOlV,
Selected to Examine Into the Chiii-ge:)
.U3AINST
Lieut.-Col. JAMES M. SANDERSON,
MADE BY
.iND
Corporal TA.YLOR.

Office Milfitary Gommission, .302 "H" St. cor. llth, }
Washington, D. C, May 19th, 1865. [
10 A. M. — The Military Commission met, pursuant to ad
journment. Present : '
Brig. Gen. John C. Caldwell,
Col. George A. H. Blake,
Capt. George H. Caldwell, A.A. G.,
Recorder.
The Military Commission then proceeded to examine the
case of James M. Sanderson, late Lieut. Colonel, Commissary
Department. This officer was dismissed the service by Special Order, No.
•201, Par. 32, War Dep't, Adj't-General's Office, Washington^
D. C, June 8, 1864.
He asks for restoration.

98
His case was referred to this Commission, by order ofthe
Secretary of War, Oct. 14th, 1864.
The Military Commission, after a careful examination of the
papers in the case and of the accused, respectfully submit the
following report : —
It appears, from the paper.s submitted in this case to the
'Commission, that Col. Sanderson Avas appointed a Captain
and Comin'y Sub. Vols., September Tth, 1861, and assigned to
¦duty with the late Gen. Wadsworth. He afterwards served
with Gens. McDowell, Reynolds, and Newton. He was ap
pointed Ad. A.D.C., with the rank of Major, July 15th, 1862;
and Corps Commissary, with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel,
¦January 1st, 1863.
On the 20th of July, 1863, while in conipany with Major
Russell, A.A. G., First A. C, searching for a ford to cross
the column over a deep and rapid stream in the vicinity of
Middleburg, Va., he was captured and taken to Rich
mond; where he remained a prisoner until March 7th, 1864.
It was while conflned in Libby Prison that the offences for
which he was dismissed, are alleged to have been committed.
'The onlj' witnesses against him are Corp. Wm. A. Taylor, 6th
.N. y. Cav. and Brig.-Gen. Neal Dow.
The statement of Corp. Taylor is not verified by oath, and
the charges of Gen. Dow are contained in a letter addressed
to Major-General Hitchcock, Commissary for the exchange of
Prisoners. Gen. Hitchcock reviewed these two documents in
ra report to the Secrettiry of War, and recommends the dismis-
.sal of Col. Sanderson. He was accordingly dismissed the
service by S. 0., No. 201, Par. 32, A. G. 0., June Sth, 1864;
amended by S. 0., 217, Par. 7, A. G. 0., June 23, 1864.
The principal witness against Col. Sanderson is Gen. Neal
D©w- and attention is called to the fact that most of his
charges relate to conduct that did not come under his personal
observation. In fact. Gen. Dow says in the beginning of his
communication that " he had no intercourse" with Colonel
Sanderson. The principal charge against Colonel San
derson is —

99
Chahue Isr — Cruel freatmeid of our Prisoners cd Bell' Isle.
Gen. Dow says : —
" After my protest to Gen. Winder, against the cruel treat
ment of our soldiers at Belle Isle, I was not permitted to
visit them any more, and the business of distributing this
clothing to the soldiers (all of which was sent to me) was put
into his hand.s. Thus, lor weeks, he came into daily contact
with the soldiers there; and his conduct towards them was
always harsh and cruel. Once, a poor fellow applied for some
clothes — he was very miserable with cold and hunger : San
derson said, 'Damn j^ou — didn't I tell you if you came again
I'd kick you ?' He, then, turned him round, kicked him, and
followed him with repeated kicks ; Capt. At-w'ood, 16th Maine,
¦Lt. Col. Archer, and others saw this. One poor fellow, bare
footed, asked for shoes, and received curses instead ; Capt.
Atwood saw this. The next day but one, Capt. Atwood saw
the same man brought out in a blanket, with feet badly frozen
— I think he suflered amputation. The Rebel Lieutenant in
charge remonstrated with Sanderson, for his harsh and cruel
treatment of the soldiers, in the presence of Atwood. His in
tercourse with the soldiers was always with oaths, and curses,
and bitter revilings.
" Manjr of these poor fellows he caused to be bucked and
gagged — and this to half-starved and half-frozen men, who
have left friends, business, and comfortable homes — in some
cases, luxurious homes to help save their country from being
blotted out from the map of Nations; many of these men were
educated gentlemen. On one occasion, (a cold day,) a squad
of men, half-starved and pinched with cold, came out for
clothes. At the head of the line to be served first was a sol
dier thin and blue, curled up and shivering — his hands in his
poor apologies for pockets. With oaths and curses, Sander
son demanded, why he did not take the position of a soldier;
and he drove the poor wretch to the tail of the line, to wait a
long hour or two, as a punishment."
Gen. Dow further says, " I have written to Capt. Atwood,
^t Gardiner, Me., asking him to send you immediately full de
tails of everything within his knowledge on this subject with
tlie names of other witnesses."
No communication seems to have been received from Capt.
Atwood ; at least none is contained in the papers before the
•Commission.

100
Corp. W. A. Taylor, Co. E, 6th N. H. Cav., in a statement
made by him, but not verified by oath, says : —
" Col. Sanderson was employed to deliver the supplies, as
sisted from time to time by another Federal officer. He was
employed some two or three hours per day, for some three
months. During this time, he issued no provisions at all. Col.
Sanderson was verj^ harsh in his treatment of the men. Dur
ing this time, he (Taylor) was with Col. Sanderson, under his
orders, assisting in the delivery of the supplies of clothing.
Occasionally, a man or so would come out and ask for partic
ular articles; and he has heard Col. Sanderson repeatedly
use harsh language toward them, and order them away — call
ing them ' dirty fellows;' and very often he has seen him kick
them, and he has heard him to order some of the men to be
bucked. The men were suflfering very much from cold and
the want of provisions. Col. Sanderson seemed to have nO'
patience with them. He seemed to use them more like brutes.
than like men. The reason why he ordered them bucked, as.
he supposes, was, that they had sold some of their clothing for
the purpose of obtaining food. A considerable number of the
Rebel guard were clothed in the United States clothing, much
of which was obtained from the Union Soldiers, as he CTaylor)
supposed, in exchange for provisions; but not all of it, for he
saw Col. Sanderson give some of it away to the Rebels; es
pecially did he see the Colonel give to one man an overcoat.
" Have seen Col. Sanderson standing with Rebel officers,
when some of the Union prisoners would approach with their
hands in their pockets — in rags and tatters, and Col. Sander
son, instead of commiserating their condition, would seem to
make .sport of them, and order them to take their hands out
of their pockets."
In answer to this charge of cruelty. Col. Sanderson pro
duces the testimony of several officers who accompanied him
to BeUe Isle, and saw the manner in which he treated the
prisoners.Brig. Gen. Powell says :—
"WhUe in command of the West rooms of the Prison, com
plaints were made to me that, whilst you (Col. Sanderson)
-was acting as President of the Committee for the distribu
tion of clothing, etc., to our men, (pri.soners of War,) your
treatment of them was inhuman, unkind, and disgracefuL

101
'" In order to ascertain tho facts in the matter, I obtained
permission to visit with you the men on the Island, without
your knowledge as to the real object of my visit.
" While there, I watched your conduct closely, and do not
hesitate to state that I witnessed nothing in j'our conduct that
would in the least substantiate the charges alleged against
you as to the abuse of our soldiers ; but. on the other hand, I
could not but admire the prompt and systematic manner in
which you issued the articles to the men."
Col. H. LeFavour, 22d Michigan Infantry, who visited
Belle Isle in company with Col. Sanderson, January 22d,
1864, says : —
" I noticed that the intercourse between him and the men
was such as should have been between the officer and the
isoldicr. " He did not maltreat, insult, or punish any of them in my
presence; nor did he use oaths, curses, or bitter invectives to
wards them. I talked with several of the men, and one in
particular — a First Sergeant of the 5th Michigan Cavalry,
vvho expressed himself as perfectly satisfied with the manner
'Col. S. distributed the clothing, and with his actions towards
the men; and who said that if Col. Sanderson had kicked the
man he is alleged to have done, he very likely was not treated
so severely as he should have been, as there were some men
there than whom worse could not be found anywhere, and
•against whom they were obliged to form an association for
self-protection. I did not observe that Col. S. was any more
intimate with the officers of the Island than his position would
justify." Lt. Col. Frederic F. Cavada, 114th Pa. Vols, says.- —
" I was selected to assist the Board of Distribution, for sev-
leral days. Col. Sanderson issued the clothing to our prison-
•ers, and seemed to conduct the matter with great order and
system. I afterwards heard him accused in the Libby of ill-
treatment towards our men. ^On the occasions when I was
with him at Belle Isle, I did not see him kick, strike, or other-
¦wise ill-use any of the prisoners. He was very strict with
them, but never in my presence perpetrated any of the cruel-
"ties upon them of which I heard him accused. His intercourse
-(with the Rebel officers on Belle Isle was courteous, but I ob-
iserved on no occasion any evidence of disloyalty on his part.

102
Lt. Col. Farnsworth, 1st Conn. Cav., says : —
" I accompanied Col. Sanderson to Belle Isle, on 'the 26th of
January, 1864. I did not see him ill-treat, abuse, or insult the-
prisoners there. He did not accost them with oaths, curses,
or bitter revilings; nor did he, to my knowledge, buck and gag-
or kick them; nor, to my knowledge, did he punish them for
not saluting him, or for not taking the position of a soldier.
He did not, whUst I was with him, exact more respect than
his rank and proper military discipline permitted or required.
I should not think he was more intimate with Rebel officers
than his official duties or proper courtesy demanded. As far
as my knowledge extended, he exhibited a proper caution in
issuing the public proper!}' in his charge."
Lt. Col. Jere. Williams, 25th Ohio Vols., says :—
"I once weiWwith Col. Sanderson to Belle Isle, where he
was engaged in distributing clothing to the prisoners. We
were taken there and brought back under guard.
" He conducted his Imsiness there systematically and justly,
and treated the men with kindness. I conversed with sever
al of the prisoners, all of whom spoke in terms of commenda
tion of his kind manner toward them, and of his fairness and
impartiality in distributing clothing, etc."
Major J. Harris Hooper, 15th Mass. Vols., says :—
" During my imprisonment, I visited Belle Island once witb
Lt. Col. Sanderson. I never heard him accost the soldiers
with oaths, curses, and bitter invectives. I have heard that
Lt. Col. Sanderson had authority to punish soldiers, and have
been t()ld that the punishment of bucking and gagging was at.
one or more times resorted to; but have also Ijeen told and
beheve that such punishment was for the commission of some
grave offence.
" Lt. Col. Saxderson certainly exacted respect of the sol
diers on BeUe Isle, and demanded of them such military eti
quette as standing at attention and in the position of a sol
dier, -ivhile addressing him. Brought into contact but once
with these poor feUows in their trulv pitiable condition—
among them brave and good men of my command— I could
not, at the time, heartily sustain Lt. Col. Sanderson in this
course; but am free to admit that, after careful thought, my
honest conviction was and now is, that the course pursued by
Col. S.\nderson towards our soldiers, although at times seem-

103
ingly harsh, was the wisest and the best; and I fully believe
th-at a more equal and just distribution of the limited supply
of stores sent by the U. S. Government for the relief of our
soldiers, was made through the rigorous method adopted by
Lt. Col. Sanderson, than could have been made by any
other."
Major Wm. Russell, Jvm., A. A. G., who accompanied
Col. Sanderson to Belle Isle several days, says : —
" During these visits I -was constantly near Col. Sanderson,
and saw his conduct and treatment of the men. He was ex
acting in his ideas of miUtary etiquette, and would not permit
them to treat them or his orders with disrespect or imperti
nence. He seemed to consider himself more interested in
watching over the interest of his Government than in cater
ing to the whims and desires of the men; and, whilst willing
to extend to them the aid and comfort in his power, would not
overlook or pass unnoticed any attempt on their part to cheat
or deceive him. I never saw him treat any man with brutal
ity or insult. He never punished any one for disrespect or
insolence, although in some cases he would perhaps have been
perfectly justifiable. He was specially severe on deserters,
thieves, and men charged with disloyalty or dishonesty; but
was not in the habit of using oaths, curses, and bitter invec
tives. I never saw him kick a soldieV, although I heard sub
sequently from himself that he had done so."

^6^

Testimony similar to the above, varying only in form of ex
pression, is given by Capt. Edward A. Mass, 88th Pa. Vols. ;
Capt. Martin Tower, ISth Mass., who says that " he (the Col.)
" treated the men with all the kindness possible;" Capt. J. M.
McComas, 9th Md. Vols.; Capt. llalpii O. Ives, 10th Mass.
Vols., who saj's that the Colonel,
" By tact and ability, executed his difficult task to the sati^;-
faction of the Rebel authorities and the United States officers
and prisoners of War. I can say from my own knowledge
that he treated the prisoners as an officer and superior, quell
ing riot and enforcing regularity in the time and manner of
distribution, as his memoranda and accounts will show. 1 have
also talked with numerous prisoners who were on BeUe Isle in
the various prisons, and have yet failed to find a good soldier
who found any fault with Col. Sanderson.

104
"Ths deserters and substitutes were of course loud in their
-denunciations, for to them Col. Sanderson was rude, not to
-say brutal."
Capt. Ed. A. Fotoes, C. S. 2d Div. Cav. Corps, says : —
" I accompanied Col. Sanderson twice to Belle Island;
found his conduct to the men correct, but severe. He de
manded that they should be soldiers at all times, especially
before our enemies ; such conduct was enforced in proper
language, and no man abused.
" Some prisoners were bucked and gagged, for stealing from
the general supply of the U. S. clothing, and from each other
in camp.
" None were punished for non-compliance with military eti
quette beyond a reprimand. Supplies and clotliing were de
nied to such men as were supposed to have taken the oath of
allegiance to the Confederate Government, and also for those
men detailed voluntarily for the Confederate shoe-shop.
"I can also state, that such men as were refused clothing,
-etcbyLt. Col. Sanderson, were allowed to enter the depot of
supplies received from our Governraent and the U. S. Sanitary
"Commission, and help themselves ad libitum; no account be
ing taken of the same bj' the Confederate officer in charge,
also no United States officer being present.
" In my opinion, Lt. Col. Sanderson used every means at
his command to insure all supplies (especially Government
property) being properly distributed ; and should be com
mended for having Confederate soldiers arrested for stealing
U. S. overcoats."
Capt. E. McB. Timoney, 15th U. S. Infantry, after stat
ing that he never saw Col. Sanderson abuse or maltreat the
prisoners, says : —
'He (the Colonel) did all he could to inspire the men with
confidence in the Government and hopes of a speedy ex
change." Acting Master W. E. H. Fentriss, U. S. Navy, (Monitor
Neo.sho,) says : —
"1 was present [at BeUe Isle] with him on one occasion and
I never saw anything in his deportment unworthy of an officer

105
¦of •the United States. Our men were much demoralized at
that time;^ their suff'erings had rendered them entirely careless
and Col. Sanderson only required of them tho respect due to
his rank. I never heard an oath from him in the discharge
¦of his duties; on the cimtrary, his manner was kind and court
eous to all.''
A similar statement is made by 1st Lieut. Thompson
Lennig-, 6th Penn. Cav.
The affidavit of Q. M. Sergt. Toland, is accompanied by
the following certificate of his character by Maj. Gen.
Meade, under date of Nov. 21, 1864:—
'" This is to certify, that I have long known Washington To
land, Sergt. 9th N. Y. S. M., the son of an old and' valued
friend of my family, Henry Toland. deceased, formerly of
Phila., recently of N. Y., in both of wliich cities, he and his
family were well known. When last I saw Washington Toland
he -vvas serving with his regiment in the field, when I exerted
ray influence, based on my knowledge of his character and
services, to have him appointed Asst. Qr. Master of Vols. I
believe Sergt. Toland to bein every way reliable, and I should
¦deem trustworthy any statement he made."
Affidavit of Waskington Toland, Sergt. 9th N. Y. S. M. :
" I was captured on the 7th of Nov. last, on the day of the
battle at Rappahannock Station — was conflned on Belle Isle
with from five to nides thousand prisoners. I know Lt. Col.
•James M. Sanderson, Chief Commissary of the 1st Corps.
I was detailed at his request to act as one of the clerks, to aid
in the issue of clothing sent by the U. S. Government for
'distributionamong the soldiers. My duty was to give out the
shoes ; sometimes I issued other articles, but very rarely.
Frequently there were no shoes to issue owing to the difficulty
in obtaining them from Richmond.
" I never knew Col. Sanderson to refuse shoes to any man
perfectly barefooted, unless there were none on hand of his
size, or the applicant had already been furnished with them,
and was suspected of having sold them. I was engaged every
¦day for nearly three months as assistant to Col. Sanderson,
•and was never absent except when I was sick.
" Col. Sanderson took as much care in issuing the clothing

106
as if it belonged to himself. It was impossible to give the
men all they asked for, and sometimes when the stock on hand
was small, he would refuse it except in extreme cases, on the
ground that the applicant had already been served, or if a
strong healthy man, because others were more in need of it..
On one occasion he refused me certain articles I desired on
that ground, and although much annoyed, I was forced to
acknowledge that he was in the right.
" Col. Sanderson in his manner to the men when drawn.
up before him, was short, sharp, and decisive, and by many,
myself among the number, considered severe. He insisted on
their approaching him in a respectful manner, taking the posi--
tion of a soldier, and awaiting his questions before he would
permit them to question him. I never heard him use profane
or abusive language, or saw him act in a passionate manner,
except in cases when, in my opinion, the conduct of the parties
justified it. as there were some men among the prisoners who
could be influenced in no other way.
" I never knew him to punish any soldier for refusing to
salute him or take the position of a soldier : he has sent them
to the end ofthe line for disobedience or impertinence, there
to remain until the last, which would be for half an hour, but
not longer. I have heard him called ' a d  d son of bitch ''
and told to ' go to hell ' by a man named Gavit, and another
named Blass, both of whom were charged by him and by the
prisoners generally, with having taken the oath of allegiance to
the Southern Confederacj^ Thelatter, to my knowledge carried
a pistol for the purpose of killing Col. Sanderson for refusing
to give him clothing, should an opportunity offer, and I firmly
believe such was his intention. Both of these men were in
great favor with the Rebels, and hated and despised by aU
the prisoners. They would endeavor to induce men to attempt
to escape, and betray them to the rebel Lieut. Gavit was in
the habit of beating prisoners with a club, and Blass once shot
a man dead who was attempting to escape. Col. Sanderson
would not give either of these men, or any Rebel sympathiser
an article of clothing, nor would he allow them to approach
him, and by persi.sting in this course exposed himself to much
insult and even danger.
" Among the pri.soners confined in BeUe Isle, were at least
one hundred and fifty of the most confirmed thieves, viUains,.
and murderers, ever let loose on a communitv.
" Night after night they made the camp hideous with their
marauding. The Rebel authorities made no attempt to res
train them, and no man's life was safe. They would rip open

107
tents, rob the inmates, and if resistance was offered, brutally
murder them. I speak from personal knowledge, and can
swear to at least fifty robberies, and two cold blooded mur
ders. At length this abuse became so unendurable that a
number of the better class of men under Col. Sanderson's.
direction and advice, organized themselves into a defensive
police, and whenever they caught the raiders in the fact, beat
them untu they were powerless and then brought them out
side the enclosure for punishment.
" The Rebel authorities allowed Col. Sanderson to inflict a
light punishment upon them, but never punished them in any^
other case except at his earnest representation. Col. San
derson always told these men that he regretted it was not in
his power to kill them, and that he regarded them as worse
than brutes or wild animals. He was not permitted to do
worse than buck them for one, two or three hours. He never
had a man gagged on the Island. I saw him have two men
bucked for selling their clothing to the Rebels. I considered
that they were justly punished, and their example produced.
a good effect on others. He was very severe in'^such cases,
and would order men suspected of stealing or selling- clothing
into the encampment immediately, never permitting them to
draw again. No man could have watched over the interests
of his Government more carefully than he did, nor do I think
any officer could have been more true and loyal in every
particular. " He was in the habit of requesting myself and others
privately to take down the names of all Union prisoners who
showed sympathy for the Rebels or who accepted an}'- favors,.
or employment, inconsistent with their obhgations to the
United States, in order to expose them when the time might
come. For a long time the boxes of clothing were placed,
under a Confederate guard and every night they were broken
open and robbed. Ool. Sandbiison protested so strongly
against this that Lieut. Bossieux permitted him to place the
clothing next to his (Bossieux) own tent and put his own-
guards unarmed over it. After that not an article was stolen
except an overcoat by a man named Gavit, of the 1st N. H..
Arty., before aUuded to, and which Col. Sanderson traced to
its hiding place and obliged the scoundrel to give it up.
" I heard that Col. Sanderson kicked one man for stealing
and selling clothing, but I am not personally cognizant of the
fact. I do know that he lent money to several prisoners on
the Island, and took pains to do little acts of kindness for the
men who Vs'ere constantly making demands upon him. He-

108
¦even off'ered money to men who did not need it, myself among
the number. I know of his loaning money to private Good-
Tich, ofthe 13th Mass.; Saurman, 90th Pa., an old man of the
name of Haggerty, and others whose names I do not remem
ber. He also advanced money to a Sergt., named Burns to
prevent him from sacrificing a fine gold watch presented by
his mother. He also disposed of some wood-work carved bj-
a man named Clark, of the 61st Pa. Vols., and other articles
made by the prisoners.
" He was courteous and respectful in his intercourse with
Rebel Officers and was always treated by them with consid
eration, but evinced no undue familiarity towards them.
" This course enabled him to obtain some privileges for the
prisoners that others could not have done. On one occasion,
a brute named Hegits, beat and cruelly maltreated one of our
men, and upon Col. Sanderson's complaint was severely re
buked and his victim released from punishment.
" I frequently saw Col. S.vnderson inspecting the kitchens
and reproaching the cooks for carelessness and filthiness. We
had reason to regret his being cut off" from visiting the Island,
as our rations were reduced nearly one half afterwards. I did
not think Col. Sanderson was justified in being so particular
in the matter of military etiquette with prisoners, and since
my release I have not hesitated to tell him so. I considered
him too severe in his manner towards the prisoners, but in his
deportmentonly, in every other respect he studied their in
terests as his own. I am ofthe opinion also, that in judging
this question, great allowance should be made for the demor
alized condition of rnost of the prisoners. Constant hunger,
cold and sickness had caused them to lose all respect for
themselves ; they were helpless as children, and his severity
towards them was perhaps a real benefit b)' restraining them
from selling their clothing and injuring themselves in other
ways. " He did everything- a man could do in such a situation to
benefit and ameliorate their condition, and used his influence
w|th the enemy to the advantage of the unfortunate victims
of southern cruelty. I do not wish to cast any imputations
on my fellow prisoners, with the exception of the thieve 3 and
murderers before alluded to. They were a brave and noble
hearted set of men, most of them captured in the front line
of battle. But human nature could not bear up under such
constant prolonged misery and torture. In many cases reason
gave way and they knew not what they did.
" It would have been impossible for Col. Sanderson to give
an overcoat to a confederate officer without being seen by

109
myself or some of the clerks. I never knew him to do so, or
heard him accused of it. I do not recollect A. W. Taylor as.
being one of the assistants in the distribution of clothing ; he
might have been, but not for any length of time.
"I knew Sergt. HiU, but never heard him speak unkindly
of Col. Sanderson. He was not employed in distributing
clothing, but was generally engaged in delivering letters
brought over by Col. Sanderson, and in hunting up the
friends of the officers who accompanied Col. Sanderson."
Private Augustus H. Saurman, Co. H, llth Pa..
Vols., swears as follows :
" I wUl certify that I was present at the time the clothing
was distributed, being called out of the enclosure by your
order or wish, to assist, as one of the issuing clerks, in its dis
tribution. " The men were called out by squads, and I can't say that
you were unnecessary severe or harsh with them, demanding
nothing more than the respect and military etiquette due
your rank. I never knew you to use any harsh language to.
any of them, unless they were known as the infernal thieves,.
robbers and murderers that infested the camp.
" I never knew of you to punish any man for not saluting
you, or approaching you with their hands in their pockets ;
but I often heard you reprimand them for their forgetfulness.
There was an organized band in the enclosure, consisting of
cut-throats, thieves, and even murderers, who robbed under
the name of ' raiders ;' and who would sally out at all hours
(night especially) and attack and assault the weak, sick and
defenseless with their billies, knives and other weapons ; and
if resistance was made, they would blanket and rob them, and
stretch them out for dead, to be carried out in a blanket to
their comrades, which caused the greatest distress all over the
camp. " 'Twas not safe to go out of your tent at night, unless you
went protected and prepared ; and when the fact was made
known to you, I believe you did your utmost with the Rebel
officer in command — Lt. Bossieux — to severely punish those
who were reported to you ; and I freely say the severest pun
ishment that could be inflicted upon them was not harsh
enough : hanging should have been their doom. ,
" 'Twas well known that many of the prisoners, after obtain
ing clothing from you, traded it off over the bank with the
rebel guard for something to eat, (as hunger knows no law,).

no
-and oftentimes would ask for more, alleging it to have been
stolen. I never knew you to refuse shoes to any person sadly
"in want of tliem, and I never heard or knew of any particular
one having his feet badly frozen, or his legs amputated, from
your refusal, although I have seen a number of poor boys with
their limbs terribly frozen from the exposure we were com
peUed to submit to by our traitorous friends, the Rebs. I
never knew of your kicking a man named Berry ; neither do I
remember anything in regard to his case ; nor do 1, in my
opinion, think that you treated the men more like brutes than
like men.
" I must admit the circumstances in which you were placed
was enough to try any man's patience. I am not aware of
any attempt made on the part ofthe prisoners to deceive you
'to the injury of my suffering companions, although you were
obliged to exercise great prudence and care in the distribu
tion of the clothing, and I believe you did issue it with as
much interest as if it was your own.
" I am aware of some of the prisoners being refused cloth
ing by you, whose false hearts led them to side with the rebel
.confederac}^ one of whom I knew well. That was a Spaniard,
Blass by name, of the 2d N. Y. Zouaves, who took the oath of
allegiance there ; also one by the name of Gavitt, who was
accused of stealing an overcoat. I've heard you accuse the
prisoners of being dirty, and reprimand them for it ; but I
must say that the fault did not lay with the poor boys, as they
¦were never issued soap wherewith to keep clean, and I doubt
whether the dirty sand and fire smoke, ground in, is off yet. I
knew of you to loan the men money as a favor, and to do
other favors solicited, such as bringing articles of food and
comfort from the officers in Libby Prison to the poor starved
boys on the Island, who belonged to their companies or regi
ments ; and 1 also knew of your giving funds to one person —
an Englishman, I think, — to keep him from sacrificing his gold
watch, when pressed by hunger, which I considered an act of
Tfindness on your part.
" You appeared on intimate terms with Lt. Bossieux, but I
can't say you were more courteous than a gentleman should
have been under the circumstances, and I believe you were al
ways treated with respect by Bossieux.
" I must say that our rations were diminished after you
ceased the distribution of clothing ; 'twas never issued in
quantities sufficient for a dog to live on ; but from the 1st of
-January, 1864, to the 7th of March, we never knew what it

Ill
\Vas to gnaw at a bone — corn bread and bug soup being our
daily fare.
"I knew 'Gus. Taylor, — now Captain, I believe, — on the
Island. Knew of his being one of t!ie issuing clerks, and
knew that you would not allow hini any clothing after dispen
sing with his services ; bnt I am unaware of the charges pre
ferred against him by you. He acted as a clerk before 1 came
out. I also knew Serg. Hill, and I never knew of him to speak
Ul of you, nor any other of the clerks employed by )'ou. I also
believe that much of the clothing was preserved through you,
by placing the clerks as guards over the clothing, to keep the
Rebel guards from stealing it. I was one of the guards my
self"
James J. Morgan, Private ofthe r2th Regiment, WestVa.
Vols., who was captured at Winchester, Va., June 15th
1863, and was a prisoner on Belle Isle until December 27,
1863, says : —
" During our stay at Belle Isle, clothing and provisions were
sent by our Government to the Federal prisoners. The cloth-
"ing was distributed to us by Federal officers, and the officer
who took the lead in this matter was a man called Col. San
derson — an elderly-looking, gray-haired gentleman.
" He required a punctilious observance of military etiquette,
l)ut as far as I could observe he distributed the clothing with
strict justice. The clothing not being sufficient to furnish all
the prisoners, he was very particular in distributing it to the
most destitute. I witnessed no cruelty on his part towards
the prisoners. His conduct was strictly military, but as far
as I was capable of judging, was guided by the principles of
the strictest justice."
Lt. Col. Northcott, 12th W. Va. Vols., introducing the
«tatement of Morgan, says :
"I am personally acquainted with the said Morgan, and
Relieve him to be a reliable man, and his testimony worthy of
full faith and credit."
Serg't. Chas. Petteys, 100th N. Y. Vols., late a prisoner
at 'Belle fele, under oath, says :
"That in the winter and spring of 1863 and 1864, while a
Erisoner as aforesaid, saw and knew Lt. Col. Sanderson of the
United States Commissary Dept., who was engaged in dis-

112
tributing clothing to the needy on said Island among the pris-.
oners, that he saw him daily. That he never saw him guilty
of any brutality or unkindness with enlisted men with whom
he came in contact ; that he enforced discipline ; that he pre
served regularity ; and, in the opinion of this deponent, it was.
because of this very discipline and regularity that the lawless
and vicious found great fault with him ; deponent knows of
certain bands called raiders, who attacked and robbed whom
soever they could ; that to this class Lt. Col. Sanderson was
very severe ; so much so, that the practice was greatly broken
up by the means suggested by him to the prisoners there con
fined ; deponent also declares that he never saw or heard of
Lt. Col. Sanderson kicking or striking any man ; that, had
such been the case, he would have been very likely to have
heard of it, as he was a sergeant of a squad, and moreover was.
constantly present while Col. Sanderson was giving out said
supplies." There is no evidence that Col. Sanderson kicked any man,
except one named Berry, and the account of this is given by
Sanderson himself His account appears clear and consist
ent, but is too lengthy for quotation. He says : —
" It is the only event of my imprisonment I would care to
alter ; not because the party punished did not deserve that
and more, but simply because it was an undignified exhibitiort
of temper quite foreign to my nature, and not at all calculated:
to raise me in the estimation of my enemies or myself."
Col. Sanderson, in his "Answer," says of Corporal Taylor^
the only evidence against him who testifies to what he saw,)
that'while " acting for a while as issuing clerk, he was detected
in the act of appropriating certain articles of clothing with
out permission, and punished by a return to the encampment,
and the refusal on my part to allow him to draw anything
from the general stock."
After a careful consideration of all the evidence on this
charge, and considering the fact that Gen. Dow saw none of
the ill treatment of aur soldiers which he alleges, and that
the only witness against Col. Sanderson who testifies to what
he could have seen, is a private soldier who had been detected-

113
by Col. Sanderson in stealing, and punished therefor, and
that even his statement is not given under the solemnity of
an oath ; considering also the number and cliaracter of the
officers who accompanied Col. Sanderson to Belle Isle and
saw him in the daily performance of his duties, and who alll
testify to the order, method, promptness, ability and efficiency
with which he distributed the supply of clothing furnished by
the government, the Commission is of the opinion that he
deserves no censure for the manner in which he performed his
duties while a member of the board of distribution.

Charge 2d — Misappropricdion of Government Stores.
The following is the only evidence to sustain this charge.
Gen. Dow^, says : —
" The U. S. Sanitary Commission sent a great quantity of
supplies to me for distribution, but the Rebels put them into
the hands of Col. Sanderson. Only a small part of them was
distributed. I am confident that a part was given to the
Rebels by Sanderson, besides what they stole, and Col. San
derson appropriated to his own use a case of egg-nog that
was marked for the Hospital."
Corporal Taylor, states that he —
" Saw Col. Sanderson give some of the U. S. Clothing away
to the Rebels, especially did he see the Col. give to one man
an overcoat."
In answer to the charge. Col. Sanderson produces the
statements of several of his fellow officers,"prisoners in Libby v
R. C. Knaggs, A. D. C. to Gen. Baxter says : —
" The distribution of the Sanitary Commission supplies was
placed under the supervision of Capt. E. A. Fobes, C. S.,
without Lieut. Col. Sanderson being cognizant of the fact,
and I believe that the stores were distributed equally with
the exception of (as I have been told by Capt. E. A. Fobes
himself) that of Col. Di Cesnola, and Brig.-Gen. Neal Dow who
received rather more than anyone else, the latter pleading
destitution."

114
Capt. E. A. Fobes, C. S., says :—
" All Sanitary stores issued in Libby Prison passed through
my hands, among other articles Col. Sanderson had one box
of egg-nog charged to him. Gen. Dow also received a large
supply of stores and gave his acknowledgement for the
same." 1st Lieut. Tliompson Lennig, 6th Pa Cav'y., says : —
" Capt. Fobes made the distribution of the Sanitary goods,
and I know that he was just and impartial."
It appears from the statement of P. H. Copland, President
of the American Dessicating Company, that this " egg-nog "
was a preparation of eggs, milk and sugar without any spiritu
ous liquor.
Heber Le Favor, Col. 22ik1 Mich. Inft'y, says :^
" Of the other stores, [¦;'. e. than clothing] I received quite a
quantity through Capt. Fobes, and so far as I am aware, all of
the officers received a portion of them."
Col. S.vnderson in his "answer" says, that he was one of
a committe of five, and was specially assigned to the distribu
tion of clothing on Belle Island, leaving to Cols. Von Schrader
and Hunter and Capt. Chamberlain the exclusive care of the
prisoners in Warehouse and Hospitals, and to Lt. Col. Boyd,
the entire control of the accounts. A copy of the order ap
pointing this " Board of Distribution " is filed with the
papers of Col. Sanderson's defence and is marked " V." Col.
Sanderson further says :
" At first it was intended that all the Sanitary Commission
supphes should be exclusively reserved for the sick,, and for a
long time this intention was scrupulously observed, but for
reasons which I either never knew or have forgotten, it was
suddenly determined by the other members of the Committee,
during my absence, to divide them equally among the officers
in the prison, who would be expected to pay to the Sanitary
Commission on their release the cost of the articles aUotted
them."

115
He says he was prepared on his reaching home to pay for
bis box of egg-nog, but was informed that the Commission
declined to receive pay, and he therefore spent the amount at
the fair held for its benefit subsequently in New York, and
continues :
" Like every other article of luxury, such as Condensed
Milk, Canned Meats, Preserved Fruits and Jellies, and other
articles of similar character, the box was branded 'hospital
supplies.' "
The statement of Corporal Taylor is positively denied to be
true by Col. Sanderson, and is contradicted by Sergt. Toland
and private Saurman, whose testimony is given above.
In view of the foregoing testimony, the Commission is of
opinion that there is no evidence to support the charge of
Misappropriation of Government Stores.

Charge 3d — Betrayal of a Plot to Escape.
¦Gen. Dow, says : —
" Early last fall we had an arrangement nearly perfected
for breaking out and capturing the city. We had about one
thousand officers and about ten thousand soldiers, and were
carefully guarded. Suddenly we saw two pieces of artillery
planted near and bearing on us, and some companies of sol
diery stationed in front of the prison. Soon we heard that
Col. Sanderson had betrayed us to the Rebels.
"The indignation ofthe officers was very great, but it was
finally allayed upon assurances that there was no intention of
communicating the secret beyond our own officers in the hos
pital. After Col. Streight's unsuccessful attempt to escape, he
was put into a damp, dark and cold cell underground, in irons,
and supplied only with corn bread and water. While he
remained in that condition Col. Sanderson told some Rebel
¦Officers that Streight had organized a plan to break out, cap
ture and destroy the city. This was told in the presence of
some of our officers, of whom Capt. Atwood, I think, was one.

116
Lt. Col. Archer and Capt. Atwood were often with Col. San
derson at Belle Isle and saw a great deal of him."
It is a matter of regret that a charge so odious and damning
as this, should, if true, rest only on the statement of one who
says that he is not " personally cognizant of these matters."
Gen. Dow intimates that Cols. Streight, and Archer and Capt.
Atwood especially the first named officers, could substantiate
the charge, but there is no evidence whatsoever from either
of these officers in the papers submitted to this Commission.
There appears, on an examination of the evidence, some-
confusion as to what particular plan of escape is alluded to in
the statement of Gen. Dow. Several appear to have been
contemplated and discussed by a greater or smaUer number
of the officers.
Col. Sanderson in his "statement" gives a clear but lengthy
account of a plan to escape, which had grown into proportions-
from a suggestion made by him, when it was proposed to.
move the prisoners from Richmond to Salisbury, N. C. This.
statement is corroborated by many officers. The plan appears
to have been as follows :
A few brave and prudent men out of about one thousand'
officers, were to be selected as field and line officers, under the-
direction of Col. Cesnola, the remaining officers were to be
recruited under the seal of secrecy as non-commissioned offi
cers and privates, each Captain selecting his company from
his own associates, disclosing to each as much of the plan as
would be necessary to insure his hearty co-operation, and
willingness to drill punctually and obey orders. A map of
Richmond was obtained, the location of depots of arms and
artillery ascertained, the places of rendezvous of the MUitia,
and the residence of the principal officers of the Rebel Gov
ernment noted.
It was thought that, with the co-operation of our forces on
the Peninsular on a given day, the guard could be overpow
ered, the City seized, and the prisoners on BeUe Island (10,000)
released. Col. Streight, it appears, thought this method too
slow, and with a few associates proposed, without waiting for

117
¦co-operation from our Government, 'to overpower the guard—
at that time Pickett's Division— to fire the City if strong
enough, and take the chances of escaping to the Union lines.
WhUst the officers were discussing the merits of this scheme
¦of Streight's, the extra force and guards spoken of in General
Dow's communication was observed, and the officers apprised
that a plan of escape had b'een betrayed to the rebels. Some
¦of the enemies of Col. Sanderson charged him with being fhe
traitor, not openly, but in his absence, and behind his back.
It wiU appear from the above, that no plan of escape had been
-fully decided upon, but that certain plans were under discus.
sion,— that the rebels were not definitely informed of the de
tails of the plot, as all extra guards were withdrawn after two
days ; and, as far as appears, any plan of escape that would
have received the hearty co-operation of all the officers, would
have been as likely to succeed after the betrayal as before,.
"This consideration, however, would not in the least diminish
the turpitude of an officer who would so basely betray his
¦comrades. It appears from the evidence, that whUe these plans ot
escape were under discussion, Col. Sanderson was taken
sick and sent to Hospital, and while there conversed on the
subject of the escape with Colonels PoweUs and Nichols, and
Captains Fisher and Skelton. From the communication of
Capt. Skelton, it will be seen precisely who it Avas that be
trayed the plan of escape :
"Capt. Skelton says—
"I became acquainted with Lt.-Colonel James Sanderson
In the month of July, 1863, in the Prison Hospital. I was in
troduced to him by Brig.-General Charles K. Graham, then
a prisoner and wounded, lying in the Hospital, Lt.-Colonel
Sanderson being brought there sick. This, I believe, was in
the month of October, 1863. He was not confined to bed, but
moved about in the Hospital, and played and acted more the
part of a nurse than a sick man. He was continually helping
and attending to the wants of the wounded soldiers and offi
cers, frequently giving them sums of money to purchase such
duxuries as their appetites might crave. I never saw Colonel

118
Sanderson in conversation with any of the rebel officers in
the Hospital. I never heard any of my fellow-prisoners say
the same, and I do not think while there in the Hospital that
he ever visited the Surgeon's office ; if he had visited there,
he would have had to pass down by my bed ; this I never saw
him do. The Prison Hospital attendants were Federal pris
oners, some prisoners of war and some citizen prisoners, such as
sutlers, quartermasters, clerks, &c; Whilst he was in Prison
Hospital, I had frequent conversations with Lt.-Col. James M.
Sanderson, in one of which he mentioned to me of a plot
among the Federal prisoners to escape en masse by striking
down the guards, seizing the Richmond Arsenal, releasing the
Federal prisoners on Belle Isle and other parts of the City,
some 15,000 strong. He spoke encouragingly ofthe plan, and
thought if there would be a unity of action among the Fed
eral officers that it would meet with success. He also stated
that Major-General Dix, then in command of the Union forces
at Fortress Monroe, knew of the plan, and at the given time
would co-operate with us with the forces under his conimand.
At this time there was an attendant in the Hospital b)'- the
name of Wm. L. Vermillion, a citizen prisoner, who was cap
tured on the Mississippi River, on the third day of May, 1863.
I knew him before his capture in Keokuk, Iowa. When I
heard of his being a prisoner in Richmond, I interceded in hia
behalf, and succeeded in getting him detailed as nurse in the
Prison Hospital. I at that time had every confidence in him
as a loyal man, believing him to be such, and thinking that no
person who had suffered imprisonment by the Richmond offi
cials could be anything else but loyal to the Federal Govern
ment. " I revealed to him this plot on the part of the Federal offi
cers to escape, as Lt.-Col. Sanderson did to me, soon after Lt.-
Col. Sanderson left the Prison Hospital for the officer's quar
ters. There were two officers made their escape from the
Prison Hospital, Wm. L. Vermillion at that time being allowed
to pass from the officers' Prison Hospital to another Prison
Hospital occupied by enhsted Federal prisoners, he usually
going in company with a rebel soldier, the distance being a
little more than one block. While passing from one hospital
to the other he met these two officers — Major Hewston, I
think, of the 133d N. Y. Vols., and Lieut. Von Wilson, of the
llth N. Y. Cavalry, they just having made their escape from
the prison disguised in rebel uniform. On his return to the
officers' Hospital, he reported the escape of these two officers
to the rebel Surgeon in my hearing, he being in the Dispen-

119
sary and only a board partition between us. I could hear alf
that passed between them very distinctly. After the escape^
of these two officers, the Federal sick and wounded officers were
taken back to the prison as a punishment for the escape of
the two officers, the next morning after the escape was made.
' I never saw Wm. L. Vermillion after we were taken back
to the prison, he being released and sent North by the rebel
authorities soon afterwards. After he had gone, whUe in con
versation with the rebel Surgeon in regard to the escape of
these two officers, I mentioned to him that I overheard Ver-
miUion report the same to him ; he also told me he reported
to Brig.-General Winder, Commissary General of Prisoners,
the following day, of the contemplated plan of the Federal offi
cers and prisoners of war to escape en masse.
" I was also informed the same by the rebel Hospital Stew
ard, who stated that General Winder promised him his release
for the information as regards this plot. After my escape, on
my arrival in Washington, I published an account of Wm. L.
VermUhon's revealing this plot, in the N. Y. Herald of Dec.
20th, 1863. I also stated the facts verbally to the Secretary
of War."
That Col. Sanderson was not generally believed to have
betrayed his comrades, will appear from the evidence of the
foUowing officers :
Col. Le Favor says —
" I heard many persons state that they considered Col. San
derson one amongst others that disclosed the plan, but I have
not heard of or seen one that could prove that such was the
case, or one that would openly charge him with the guilt. On
the contrary, I have heard as many state that they could not
believe him guilty of such a crime, and from my knowledge of
him I am led to the conclusion that it would be impossible for
him to do such a mean act as to betray a fellow-prisoner, a
soldier of the United States."
Lieut. Col. Williams says —
" He was at one time charged by somebody with disclosing
to the rebels a plan to escape. Some excitement ensued, when
the charge was circulated, and a meeting was called by some
person or persons to take action in regard to it. Some of his
enemies had prepared resolutions in advance to be passed by

120
'the meeting, but, after diligent investigation, no shadow of
evidence could be found to justify them, and the meeting ad
journed, the general impression prevaUing that the charge
was malicious, and had been trumped up or manufactured by
some of his squad of enemies to injure him in the estimation
of his fellow-prisoners."
Several officers allude to the meeting mentioned above, in
similar language.
Capt. H. Reese Whiting says—
" I knew of the McKee meeting in the prison ; at its close,
many who had been enemies of Col. Sanderson were his firm
and steadfast friend The meeting was called, Col. Sanderson
was absent, and the affair was considered as a mean and das
tardly attack upon an absent officer."
Major John E. Clark says —
" I remember a meeting was held in the -middle room some
time in the month of January, at Avhich I was told some
charge had been brought against Col. Sanderson, I think
in his absence from the building, but I heard a considerable
number of gentlemen of unquestioned loyalty (some among
them by no means friendlj' to Col. S.) speak of it as a disgrace
to all who were active in it. Such was also my opinion from
what I could gather ofthe course there taken. I am not aware
that those bringing charges against Col. Sanderson on that
occasion, ever brought any sufficient proof to substantiate
them, though I think thev were invited to do so, if they
could." Major Wm. K.ussel, Jr., says —
" About the 15th of January an incident occurred which
gave Col. Sanderson's enemies an opportunity to display
themselves. A meeting was called without specifying the ob
ject, and when convened it was found to be for the purpose of
condemning Col. Sanderson for the perpetration of certain
offences, of which proofs, when called for, were not forthcoming.
This attempt to destroy an officer's character was so bare
faced, so contemptible, and so cowardly (Col. S. being absent,)
that a reaction took place and produced a more kindly feeling
toward-^ the Colonel than had existed during his imprison
ment."

121
Surgeon A. W. Whitney says —
" I have heardboth Col. Sanderson and Col Streight accused
of having divulged this plot to the enemy, the former by talk
ing about the plans to his brother officers before one of the
nurses of the hospital — the latter by sending a threatening
message to Major Turner, the Commandant of the Prison, say
ing, ' Tell Turner he'll be d  d glad to see me, and that be
fore long ;' but 1 do not believe that either of these gentlemen
would intentionally stoop so low as to betray the plans of their
fellow-prisoners. "
Lieut. Col. A. F. Rogers says —
" Col. Sanderson was accused by some of the officious of be
traying a plan of escape to the rebels. It was not believed by
the better class of officers. I do not know by whom this
charge was originated. I never heard of any one charging
Col. Sanderson with the act to his face, or willing to substan
tiate the charge by the slightest attempt at evidence."
Lt. Col. John Henry says :
"He (Col. Sanderson) was accused of betraying a plan to
escape, but no one ever had the effrontry to make the charge
directly to him, and when sifted out it had no foundation."
Col. Thomas E. Rose says :
" I have heard him charged with having betrayed a 23lan of
escape to the rebels, but this charge was perfectly groundless.
It emanated from one or two of Col. Sanderson's enemies,
who apparently did not hesitate at saying anything, whether
true or false, against any one they disliked.
Lt. Col. F. F. Cavada says :
" I heard something of a plan to escape having been be
trayed to the rebel authorities by Col. Sanderson. As far as
I know this did not extend beyond conjecture. I was then
adverse to the opinion entertained by some of the prisoners
that so base an act could have been perpetrated by any officer
wearing the uniform of the United States. I have never seen
anything since in the conduct of Col. Sanderson to warrant
this accusation against his loyalty. Col. Sanderson had many
enemies in the prison, and such a report concerning him was
calculated to obtain credence in numerous quarters. I heard

122
the above charge repeatedly made against Col. Sanderson, but
no substantial evidence in support of it ever came to my
knowledge." There is testimony from several other officers to the same
effect. It appears from a careful review of all the evidence on this
charge that among the large number of officers (over one thous
and confined at Richmond, various plans of escape were discuss
ed and two more or less matured. There was a want of unanimi
ty and hearty co-operation in any definite plan ; that which
was deemed practicable and prudent by some, being charac
terized as being mad and foolhardy by others. Jealousies and
rivalries were common, and the most absurd rumors obtained
a ready credence. It was while plans to escape were being
most actively discussed, that Col. Sanderson was taken sick
and carried to the hospital. A day or two after his return from
the hospital the extra guards were placed around the prison, and
the conviction obtained ground among the prisoners that they
had been betrayed. Some of Col. Sanderson's enemies accused
him of the crime, and the charge was busily circulated. It
seems that no attempt was ever made to substantiate the
charge by evidence, nor was its truth generally believed by
the better class of officers. The statement of Capt. Skelton,
given above, shows precisely Avho it was that gave information
to the rebel authorities of the proposed plan, and fully ex-
honorates Col. Sanderson from all blame in the matter.
The Commission, after a careful examination of all the evi
dence, are of opinion that the charge that Col. Sandersos
betrayed a plan of escape is without foundation ; had its origin
in the malice of his enemies, and is repeated by Gen'l Do-wr
without sufficient evidence. Charge 4th — Disloyalty.
Gen. Dow says in his letter to Major General Hitchcock :-
" The conviction among the officers generaUy was that he
was disloyal ; had little or no sympathy with our cause, but
much for the rebels. Col. Sanderson was constantly defend-

12^
ing the rebels and justifying them in their treatment of our
soldiers — averring that they were properly treated.
" Some of this I heard on one occasion, and interposed with
the facts at Belle Isle which existed under his observation.
"Col. di Cesnola, for the last two or three months, held no
communication whatever with him — so entire was his confi
dence of his infidelity to the country. He will gladly furnish
any information in his possession, as he believes the good of
the service requires Col. Sanderson's dismissal from it. My
conviction was that Col. Sanderson had no sympathy with the
Union cause. His conversation, so far as t knew of it, indi
cated a decided hostility to the administration and its measures-
and certainly he manifested no kindly feeling towards our
soldiers, who were suffering so much in their country's ser
vice. By our officers, generally, at Richmond, he was regarded'
with distrust. Very few of them had any intercourse with
him, and great care was used to keep every matter from his-
knowledge that we wished to keep from the Rebels."
In answer to this charge, Col. Sanderson gives a lengthy
statement of his original entry into the service and subsequent-
railitary history. From this stqitement it would appear that,.
at the beginning of the war, Col. Sanderson was holding a
confidential and lucrative position in the New- York Hotel, " a
celebrated sojourning place in NoAv-York city for Southern
ers." The Colonel says that, after the attack on J'ort Sumpter;
his Southern sympathy and conservative views melted into
thin air. Endorsed unanimously by the Union Defence Com
mittee and by other prominent citizens of New- York, he
sought employment in the Subsistence Department, and was
one oifour bidders for the first batch of Treasury notes. For
this his employer dismissed him on one day's notice. Unsuc
cessful in an attempt to bring to the notice of the Secretary of
War a plan for teaching the soldiers how to cook their rations,.
he returned to New- York and was authorized by Gov. Morgan
to test the practicability of his plans in some of the New-York
regiments. It appears from the statement of Dr. B. Harris, U. S. Sani
tary Commission, that he was " triumphantly" successful in
the 15th N. Y. FaiUng in getting his plans approved by Con
gress, he accepted the position of Q. Master, 22d Mass. Vols.,

134
tendered him by the Hon. Henry Wilson. He soon after re
ceived his appointment as Commissary, and was assigned to
duty with the late Gen. Wadsworth, with whom he remained
until the General was assigned to the MiUtary Governorship
of Washington. He fiUed up his leisure time in the winter by
preparing a book on Camp Cookery, Avhich was published and
distributed by the Government. He was Gen. McDoweU's
Chief Commissary of the First Corps. In July, 1862, on the
recommendation of the same General, he was made Major and
Add'l Aid-de-Camp ; and, on the recommendation of Major-
Gen. John F. Reynolds, was, in January, 1863, promoted Lt.
Colonel. He served with Gen. Hooker in the Antietam cam
paign, and with Generals Rejmolds and Newton, at Fredericks
burg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg.
In proof of his patriotism and loyalty. Col. Sanderson pro
duces the testimony of various officers with whom he has served,
and with whom he was associated in prison.
Major Gen. Meade, Commanding Army of the Potomac,
says : —
" This is to certify to all whom it may interest, that I have
known James M. Sanderson, late Lt. Col. in the Volunteer
Subsistence Department, since the month of April, 1862, at
which time he was serving as Chief of his Department in the
First Corps, under the command of Major-Gen. I. McDowell.
Afterwards I commanded, for a short period, the First Corps;
and, subsequently, a Division in that Corps, under Gen. Rey
nolds, during which time Lt. Col. Sanderson was Chief of his
Department, in which position he remained till taken prisoner,
about three weeks after the battle of Gettysburg. In all this
time, my knowledge of Lt. Col. Sanderson was to show him
to be an active, intelligent officer, zealous in the discharge of
his duties, and of distinguished gallantry on the field of battle
— I being personally cognizant of his services at Fredericks
burg, ChanceUorsville, and Gettysburg.
" I have frequently conversed with the officers with whom
Col. Sanderson immediately served, particularly Major-Gens.
McDowell and Reynolds, and Brig.-Gen. Wadsworth; and
uniformly heard these officers express themselves favorably
of Col. Sanderson. I never heard his loyalty or fidelity to his
'country questioned, and learned with equal regret and surprise

125
that charges of this character had been brought against him,
whilst a prisoner at Richmond.
"I am of the opinion that the past services and good con
duct of Lt. Col. Sanderson entitle him to a fair investigation,
and trust the Government will grant the same."
Major Gen. Hooker, in a letter addressed to Col. San
derson says ; —
" I commanded the First Corps during the Maryland cam
paign, until wounded at the battle of Antietam ; and, from
personal observation know you to have been as true to the
policy of the Administration and to the Government as any
officer in the Army. This was at a period when the policy of
the Administration in regard to Slavery was discussed more
openly and freely than at any other period of which I have
knowledge. It affords me great pleasure to make this state
ment, for I fully remember the great satisfaction it gave me
to meet with one whose views coincided with my own. This
was at a period ofthe war when it seemed to be fashionable
to entertain opposite opinions. Subsequently, I remember,
we had many interviews in which this, with other topics,
formed the subject of our conversation, which always resulted
in the enhancement of my estimation of your loyalty. In
deed, I should as soon think of distrusting my own fidelity, to
the cause as yours.
"With respect to your conduct in battle and your ability
and efficiency in the performance of your duties, it gives me
no less pleasure to recur to them. In all regards, your official,
character and conduct were entirely satisfactory to. me.
B'vt Brig. Gen. Sharpe says :— -
"I have known Lt. Col. Sanderson since May, 1849. I lived
with him nearly two years at that time, and at intervals since ;
and, during that time, I never knew Col. Sanderson to behave
in a cruel or tyrannical manner to those under him. The
servants always remained with him, and even followed him to
other hotels. He always kept the servants under good disci
pline. I frequently made my home at the New-York Hotel,
and particularly during the winter for several years. I under
stood, after Cob Sanderson left the New- York Hotel, that the
reason he left was on account of his open and very de
cided espousal of the Union party. This I learned from the
old hmhitve^ oi the Hot«l,.who had been there for several years,.

126
like myself I have discontinued going to the New-York
Hotel on account of the Southern feeling that prevailed there.
"About three months ago, Col. Sanderson wrote to me, say
ing he expected to have a hearing in his case ; and I drew up
a paper stating my knowledge of the Colonel, and my opinion
of his loyalty. That paper received a very special endorse
ment from Gen. Patrick, in which he stated that Col. Sander
son had served under his command ; and he spoke from his
personal knowledge of Col. Sanderson's character as a gen
tleman and his high efficiency in his Department. The paper
also had a very warm endorsement from Gen. Seth Williams.
Both of these endorsements Avere lengthy and special. The
paper had a number of signatures : among others those of
¦Gen. Hunt ; Lt. Cols. Barton and Riddle ; Major Cox, C. S. ;
Headquarters, Army of the Potomac. This paper bore strong
testimony to Col. Sanderson's conduct as a gentleman and
soldier, and, I remember, it was made a matter of special re
mark, that he always Avent into battle with his commanders.
This paper Avas left to be forwarded by an officer at H. Qrs.
Army of the Potomac, and I understood it was mailed from
there and has miscarried.
" I think that those who knew Col. Sanderson would say
that he is impulsive. I do not think that Col. Sanderson is
what would be caUed a profane man, although I have heard
him use profane language. My opinion of Col. Sanderson is
such that I would trust any interest I have in the Avorld in his
hands, and I have not the slightest doubt of his loj^alty.
" I have neA'er heard a doubt expressed of his loyalty ; on
the contrary, I have heard the utmost surprise expressed that
he was charged Avith disloyalty."

Col. Henry A. Morrow

says :—

" I have known Lt. Col. Sanderson, as a soldier, for about
two years. I think I was introduced to him by the late Brig-
Gen. Wadsworth, Avho felt for him the Uveliest feelings of re
gard. " Col. Sanderson Avas at this time attached to the staff of
the late Major-Gen. Reynolds, in the capacity of Chief Com
missary. I had occasion to meet Col. S. at various times and
places during the spring of 1863, and immediately after the
battle of Gettysburg, July 1863 ; I was in his company for
several hours. The conversation at such a time naturally
turned on the Rebellion, and the means adopted to puc it
down. Col. Sanderson was positive and emphatic in his de-

127
nunciations of the Rebellion and every body and every thing
connected with it. I do not remember ever to have heard
any man denounce the Southern leaders in more caustic and
bitter terms than did Col. S. on that occasion. He was espe
cially severe on the institution of Slavery — which he declared
to be the cause of all our troubles, and my recollection is that
he favored the idea of settling the negroes on the lands in the
West. I state this to shoAV my recollection of this conversa
tion. He repeated many times in the course of the conversa
tion, that he believed the policy adopted by Mr. Lincoln to be
constitutional, Avise, and just ; and he declared that, sooner
than not subdue the Rebellion, he would make the South a
wilderness and a desolation. I do not undertake to give the
exact language of Col. S., but I^ remember that it Avas out
spoken and terribly denunciatory.
" I have no doubt Avhatever, judging simply from what I
have heard him say, that Col. James M. Sanderson is most
loyal to the country and is as warm a friend to the policy of
the Administration as is to be found anywhere. It is within
my personal knowledge that he enjoyed the respect and con
fidence of that noble patriot. Gen. Wadsworth."
Dr. E. Harris, of the U. S. Sanitary Commission, referring
to the services of Col. Sanderson whUe with the 15th N.
Y., previous to his appointment as Commissary, says : —
"At that time, and ever since, I had no doubt that you were
prompted by the highest patriotism and humanity to Under
take that work. Indeed, in the City of NeAv-York, it Avas
well knoAvn that you were, from the attack on Fort Sumpter,
a bold and manly defender of our National cause, and ready to
serve in the Avar in any Avay you could be most useful."
That the loyalty and support of the Administration of Col.
Sanderson were not diminished by his prison experiences,
would appear from the certificates of the following officers,
his companions in captivity.
Col. C. W. Tilden, 16th Me. Vols., says :—
" During the whole of my imprisonment, I was very intimate
with Col. Sanderson — messing with him, sleeping near him,
joining with him in his evening amusements, conferring Avith
him on business matters and on private affairs, and frequently

128
discussing political subjects — and I ahvays found him a pleas
ant associate, ever ready to promote the interests of those
about him ; ready and Avilling to give advice Avlien required ;
and a Avarm supporter of the Administration, upholding the
Government in its most A^igorous and stringent efforts to
crush the Rebellion. I never heard or knew of his express
ing opinions adverse to this Administration or any of its
measures, or any opinions antagonistical to the cause of Union
and freedom. I never heard him express any opinion in favor
of the South or its institutions ; on the contrary, I have heard
him repeatedly express himself as being an open and avowed
abolitionist. I never saAv him on more intimate terms with
Rebel officers than, in my opinion, was justifiable, or his du
ties as one of the Committee demanded. I did not consider
him a disloyal man, neither was he so considered by a large
number of the officers. I am knowing to the fact that he did
as far as possible nse his influence with the Rebel authorities
to mitigate or ameliorate the rigors of our imprisonment, and
that in some instances he was successful."
Col. Heber LeFavour, 22d Mich. Vols., says :—
" In many conversations Avith him [Col. S.] 1 have never
heard him express any sentiment adverse to the Administra
tion or its measures ; and, per contra, have heard him support
it and its measures very ardently. By his conversation, I
judged him to be a Republican, and quite Radical on the sub
ject of the Abolition of Slavery. He was quick, impulsive,
and at times imprudent in speech and actions ; but I can
not believe him guilty of disloyalty to the United States, nor
of treachery to his feUow-prisoners ; and do not think there
was a more loyal man in Libby Prison than he."
Col. P. di Cesnola, 4th N. Y. Cavalry, referring to the
statement of Gen. Dow given above, that " Col. di'Ces-
" nola, for the last tAvo or three months, held no commu-
" nication whatever with him, so entire Avas his conviction
" of his infidelity to the country. He wiU gladly furnish
" any information in his possession, as he beUeves the good
" of the service requires Col. Sanderson's dismissal from
" it," says :—
" I have never made such assertion, nor have I authorized
any officer to make it in my name. The differences existing-

129
between you and myself, if any existed, Avere of a private
character, and Avere not in consequence of any change of
opinion on my part concerning you. To accuse a man of
being a traitor or disloyal to his countrj' requires a great deal
of evidence to shoAv it, and I am happy to say I have never
seen an}- such evidence Avhich Avould justify me to call Col.
Sanderson Avith such names."
Col. Thos. E. Rose, 77tli Pa. Vols., says :—
" I never heard him express sentiments, antagonistic to our
¦Government or the Administration. I never heard him say
anything, nor did I ever see anything in his conduct that Avould
indicate that he sympathized Avitli tho Rebels or any of their
institutions.''
Lt. Col. il. S. Northcott, 12tli W. Va. Vols., says :—
" I had frequent conver.^atidiis A\-ith liim in relation to the
policy of our Govcriuiient conceriiiti,g the exchange of prison
ers, and he uniformly expres.scd a cheerful acc|uiescence in that
policy. I never heard him utter aA\-ord of complaint against his
Government, bnt I frequently ]ie;ird him relailce otbers avIio
Avere inclined to complain. 1 iieA'ei- heard Col. Sanderson utter
aAvord in favor ofthe Southern Confederacy. 1 Avell remem
ber, that at the time the Rebel authorities at Richmond refused
to recognize Gen. Butlor as Commis.^inncr of Exchange, that
he expressed his iiidi.gnation to me in the strongest terms. I
do not recollect all that he .^aid to me at the tiiuo, but 1 re
member his excusing the conduct of Gen. Butler in lii^ Mili
tary ^Administration at Now Orleans, and also of his saying
that tlie Rebels, Avho were nothing but a. sot of outlaws tbem-
selves, had no right to decide any other man in Christendom
an outhiAv, and that our Goveniinent A\-oukl be justifiable in
bireaking off all intercourse Avith the Rebels by flag of truce
.boat untd they did recognize Butler, and that as a prisoner,
he (Sanderson) would be Avilling to endure any suffering that
might result from such a coni-sc on the part of our Govern
ment." Lt. Col. Jevc WiillaiMS, 25lh Ohio Vols., says : —
"During a great part of the time that we both Avere there,
[Libby Prison,] we Avere in the same room, and Avere neces-
¦sarUy often together. During our stay there, 1 never heard
him express any opinion^ adA^erse to our Government or its

130
measures ; nor ever did 1 hear him speak of the Confederacy,
except in terms of condemnation, sometimes very strong.
" He conducted himself at all times, so far as I could learn,
as a zealous Union man and as a strong supporter ofthe Gov
ernment. I am very decidedly of opinion that, instead of
censure, he should receive commendation and thanks for his
efforts in behalf of the Avretched inmates of Libby."
Lt. Col. Frederick F. Cavada, 114th Pa. Vols., says ; —
" I never heard anything, Avhilst in the Libby or .since I left
it, that could induce me to l.telieve in the report that Col, San-
DER.SON Avas a traitor to the Government under Avhich he served."
Col. B. F. Fi.-her, U, S. Signal Corps, says :—
" I neA'er heard him express any opinion adverse to our
Government or its measures, or expre^s any sympathy for the
Confederacy or its institutions. He was not considered dis
loyal liy the better class of ofiicers or shunned in conse
quence. ' "
Lt. Col. A. F. Rogers, 80th IU. Vols,, says :—
'-From Avhat I saw and knew of Col. Sanderson, I Avould
consider him a loyal man, and not oppose^ to the present Ad
ministration and its measures, anrl not in sympatliy Avitli the
Rebellion, I consider Col, Sanderson more deserving of
prai-^c than censuie for his efforts in belralf of his comrades,"

Lt. Coi. John Hem-y, 5th Ohio Ca\ airy, says :—
" 1 Avas, whde a prisoner, very intimate Avith Lt, Col. San
derson, and had many conversations v,-ith him on literary and
political subjects. Heard his A-iews on the Rebellion, but
never heard him express any sympatliy for those engaged in
it ; on the contrary, he Avas very bitter against aU Rebels.''
Major J. Harris Hooper, 15th Mass, Vols,, says :—
' During my acquaintance Avith Lt. Col, Sanderson, (Avhich
Avas of an intimate character,) I never heard him give expres
sion to any sentiments adverse to the U. S, GoA^ernment
or Its measures, or in any A\-ay favorable to the Rebel Govern
ment or its institutions ; and I never heard or saw anything
that caused me to believe him other than a thoroughlv loval

131
Major Wm. RmseM, Jr., A, A, G. .Mid, MU. Div., says :
"I have had frequent discussions with Col. Sanderson on the-
subject of politics, and have heard him express himself on the
questions at issue ; but I never heard him express any senti-
ineiits_ adverse to the Administration or its measures^ or say
anything in fiAor of the Confederacy tn- its institutions. On
the contrary, he avowed himself openl}- as an AboUtiouist,
and Avent further in his devotion to the Administration than
Avas concurred in by many of his hearers,"
Major J. E. Clark, Sth Mich, Cav,, says:--
" I never heard him express sentiments adverso to the Goa^-
ernment or its merisures, or favorable to the Confederacy or
its institutions ; nor did 1 suspect him of entertaining such
sentiments," Lt, Col, Charles Farnsworth's testimony is in nearly the
same words,
SiU'geon A. W. Whitney, 13th Mass, A^ols.., says: —
" I never heard him express sentiments hostile to the Ad
ministration or its measures, or show the slightest sympathy
Avith the so-called Southern Confederacy or its institutions.
He was not shunned by the better class of officers on account
of his disloyalty ; on the contrary, bis society was much
sought after, I l)elieve him to be as loyal as Gen, Neal Doav,
and as patriotic as Col, Streight — A\itliout the Avhine of the
former, or tlie bluster of the latter. From my knowledge of
Col, .S.VNDERSi.iN previous to his capture, and his present repu
tation in the Corps, I do not believe Iiiin capable of treachery
to his comrades, treason to his (.rovernmont, or inhumanit}- to
any creature however lowly. While in prison, I bclieA'e, he
Avas one of the few officers avIio did not groAvl and complain.
because the U, S, Government did not effect exchanges more-
rapidly,"
Capt. Ralph O. Ives, 10th Mass, \"ols., says :—
"As regards Mr, Sanderson, Avhom I haA^e known for ten
years, I give it as my belief that he is and always has been a
perfectly loyal man, Avho Avould not in any Avise give aid or
comforrto tlie enenij' ; that my relations with Mr, Sanderson
were of the most intimate character;, that Ave messed together,

132
slept side l:)y side ; in short, Ave were constantly in each
other's society ; that, in all my intercourse Avith him, (and I
was honored Avith his perfect confidence,) I never heard him
express a sentiment of sympathy Avitli a reliel or with their
cause ; or ever knew of his doing anything that might be
construed into s}^mpathy — not that he Avas blatant in his abuse
of the rebel authorities,' Avhich Avas equally puerile and in bad
taste by a prisoner, but that he alAva3's protested against harsh
usage ; and frequently by his quiet, nianl}^, and dignified re
monstrance saved his fellow-prisoners from abuse,''
Capt. Edward A. Mass, 88th Pa, Vols,, says : —
" I heard him on one occasion conversing Avith a rebel citi
zen, (I Avas told he Avas an editor,) and that conversation Avas
strongly loyal, and against Southern treason in every shape
and form,"
Capt. Edward A. Fohes, C, S, 2d Div, Cav. Corps, says :
" On several occasions I have heard him speak boldly and
openly to Confederate officers when his own Government Avas
maligned or its policy misrepresented. His sentiments, as ex
pressed in prison, led me to think him thoroughly loyal to his
.country and its cause,"
Similar testimony as to his loj-alt}^, in some cases expressed
in much stronger language, is .given by
Captain Martin Tower, 13th Mass, \'ols,
E, McB, Tijioney, 15th U, S. Infantry.
(Jeorge II, Starr, 101th N, Y, Vols,
J, M, McCojiAS, 9th Md, Vols,
E, Charlier, 157th N. Y, Vols,
S, G, Hamlin, 134tli N. Y. Vols.
H. Rees Whiting, 24th Mich. Vols.
Adj't P, Owen Jones, 2d N, Y, Cavalry,
N, McEvoY, 3d 111. Cavalry.
First Lt. R, C, Knaggs, A,D,C. to Gen. Baxter.
Sec'd Lt, H.VRLAND Richardson, 19th Ind, Vols,
Sec'd Lt. Geo, D, Bisbee, Ibth Me. Vols.
Acting Master W. E, H. Fentress, U. S. Navy.
The only evidence against the loyalty of Col. Sandersok

133
in the papers before the Commission, is contained in the state
ment of Gen, Dow, as above quoted. Attention is called to
the fact that the alleged disloyal utterances of Col. Sander
son were not made, the most of them, in the presence of Gen.
Dow, but his opinion of the disloyalty of Col. Sanderson Avas
founded upon what others told him. He specially men
tions Col. Cesnola as saying that Col. Sanderson Avas disloyal
and ought to be dismissed the service.
Col. Cesnola, in his statement given above, denies ever
having made such an assertion, or authorized any officer to-
make it for him. The testimony of officers of the highest.
rank, Avho kncAV Col. Sanderson previous to his imprisonment,
is explicit as to his open and avowed loyalty. Among these
officers are Major-Generals Meade, Hooker, Reynolds, McDow
eU, and the late Brig.-General WadsAvorth. The testimony of
his fellow-prisoners is uniform to the point that he Avas em
phatic, Avhile in prison, in his support of the Administration
and its measures. The testimony is cumulative and conclu
sive to the point that, while in prison, Col. Sanderson ex
pressed himself as a thoroughly loyal man, and a Avarm sup
porter of the Administration and its measures.
After a careful consideration of all the testimony, the Com
mission is of opinion that the charge of disloyalty is utterly
without foundation.
The above are all the charges brought against Col. Sander
son by Gen. Neal Dow and Corporal Taylor, and in the opinion
ofthe Commission a satisfactory defence is made to them all.
Much additional testimony, however, is contained in the pa
pers for the defence, and for a thorough understanding of the
case, it will be necessary to shoAv the duties Col. Sanderson
Avas called upon to perform while in prison, and how, Avhile in
the proper performance of these duties, he aroused opposition
and made enemies.
The rooms in which they Avere confined at Libby Prison,
Avere divided and known as the " Eastern Department" and
" Western Department," into the former of Avhich Col. San
derson and his companions were put. The Eastern Depart-

134
.Inent AA^as under the direction of Col, C, W, Tilden, 16th Me,,
and the Western Department under A, D, Streight, Col, San
derson having been a hotel keeper, and having some reputa
tion as a cook, Avas selected as kitchen director of the Eastern
Department.
Major Wm. Russell, A. A, G, M, :M. Div,, says :—
" Soon after our arrival Col, Sanderson was requested to
assume direction and supervision of the culinary arrangements
ofthe department, which he did greatly to the advantage of
all parties, introducing a .system and regularity unattainable
under any other circumstances.
''His duties Avere to teach the mess cooks how to prepare
their rations, arranging the hours and mode of occupying the
stoves and tables, and settling all disputes in relation thereto,
arising between the various parties engaged in cooking and
setting the tables. The situation Avas a most trying one,
and demanded the greatest amount of patience, good temper,
and impartiality ; and was calculated to make many enemies
for its occupant. No man gave more trouble or called upon
Col, S, more frequently than Capt, AtAvood. So Avell did
this system work, however, that we became the envj^ of
the adjoining department, knoAvn as " Streight and Milroy's,"
and efibrts Avere made to obtain an unanimous invitation to
'Col. Sanderson to undertake the superAnsion of their kitchen,
but the scheme failed,"
Many other officers testify to the same effect, not only to the
value of Col, Sanderson's services, but also that the position
was calculated to make the Colonel many enemies, and did
make enemies. In a political discussion. Col, Streight took
occasion to fasten a quarrel upon Col, Sanderson, and abused
liim in a shameful manner,
•Col. Rogei's, Avho Avas present, says :—
" Every officer that heard it censured Col, Streight, After
the difficulty Col, Streight Avas a persistent enemy of Col.
Sanderson," ,
The testimony is unanimous that the personal bearing of
Col, Sanderson, whUe in prison, Avas courteous, affable and

135
gentlemanly, and that he Avas c\er ready to perform kind
offices for his fellow prisoners.
Col. Tilden says : —
"He Avas noted for keeping sundry little conveniences on
hand for those less provident, and in many instances I have
known officers to call on him for faA^ors of this kind, Avho on
former occasions had abused him, and he Avas always ready to
meet their request if in his power."
Lt. Jones, Adj't 2d N, Y, Cav,, after testif3-ing to the number
less acts of kindness performed by Col, Sanderson toAvards
his fellow-jjrisoners, says : —
" 1 have yet to learn an instance Avherehe refused anything
that was in his power to do, or giA^e either to friend or foe,
Avhen applied to, "
Very many of the ofiicers testify that Col, Sanderson lent
them money on various occasions, and that he lent money to
several officers to enable them to escape from prison.
It would seem from the statement of Col, Rose, that Col.
.Streight himself Avas enabled to escape by means of money
loaned by Col. Sanderson,
He says : —
"Major McDanald borrowed money from Col, Sanderson, by
Avhich he and Col, Streight effected their escape from Rich-
rmond," And he says very justly :
" These officers Avould not have entrusted Col. Sanderson
nvith the secret if they had suspected him of treachery."
Major McDanald corroborates the statement of Col. Rose.
^Col. Rose is Col. of the 77th Regt. Penn. Vols., and was, ac-
-cording to his own account —
" The originator of that scheme (the tunnel) and the leader
•of it throughout."
He says Col. Streight knew nothing of the tunnel untU
-after he had been Avorking at it for more than a month.

136
At the time Longstreet's Corps was passing through Rich
mond to reinforce Bragg, Col. Sanderson ofi'ered five hun
dred doUars to any officer Avho would escape and convey the
inteUigence to our Government.
The kindness and consideration of Col. Sanderson for his
feUoAV-prisoners Avas shoAvn Avhen he left Libby Prison.
Major Russell says : —
- When about to be exchanged. Col. Sanderson divided
among his companions and messmates everything he Avas
posse.-sed of in the shape of l)o<:.ks, clothing, bedding and
subsistence, amounting to over Iavo hundred doUars, if not
more, carrying a.Avay AA'ith him the contents of a haversack
and one blanket."
His conduct in this particular Avas in marked contrast to
that of his principal accuser. Gen. Dow, Avho, according to his
own account, carried away from Libby " tAvo large trunks."
That Col, Sanderson was an active and efficient officer is
undisputed, and abundantly appears from the evidence in the
case. Attention is called to the statements of Genl's, Meade
and Hooker, AA^ho both testify to his distinguished gaUantry
on the field of battle. It appears that he always insisted on
going into battle Avitli his Commanding General,
After a very careful and thorough consideration of all the-
evidence in this case, the Commission is of opinion that there
is not a shadow of foundation for the charges of Misappropria
tion of Government Stores, or Disloyalty,
With regard to the charge of cruel treatment of our prison
ers at Belle Isle, the Commission is of opinion that Col. San
derson, though strict in the enforcement of discipline, is inno-
c;snt. The testimony shoAvs conclusivelj^ that Col. Sanderson
was active and untiring in alleviating the sufferings and
promoting the interests of his fellow-prisoners, Avhether
enlisted men or commissioned officers.
The Commissionis of opinion that the conduct of Col. San
derson Avhile a prisoner in Richmond deserves praise and not

137
censure, and they respectfully recommend, that the order dis
missing him from the service be revoked.
(Signed)
JOHN C. CALDWELL,
Brig.-Gen. U. S. Vols.,
Brest. Gom.
GEORGE, A, H, BLAKE,
Gol. 1st If. S. Gav'y.
George H, Caldwell.
Gapt. & A. A. G., Recorder.
Office Military Gommission. )
302 "li,"St,, Cor, 17th, I
Washington, Aug, 17, 1865, J
(Official Copy,)
George H, Caldwell,
Gapt. tC- A.A. G., Recorder.

Special Orders,
No, 288.

War Department,
Adjutant General's Office,
W.vsHiNGTON, June Sth, 18C5,

\ Extract. I

17. Paragraph 19 of Special Orders No. 272 from this;
office, dated June 2, 1865, is hereby amended to read as fol
lows :
" The Military Commission, to Avhom the case of Lieutenant-
Colonel James M. Sanderson, Major, additional Aide-de-Camp;
and Captain, Commissary of Subsistence,, United. States Voh
unteers, was referred for investigation and . report, . having
made their report,. to the effect- tiiat. Lt,-.Col. .Sanderson's con
duct, Avhile a prisoner at Richmond,, deserves praise rather
than censure, and recommendingthat the order dismissing him.

138
from service be revoked. Paragraph 7 of Special Orders, No.
207, from this Office, dated June 23, 1864, is by direction of
the President, hereby revoked and annulled, to take effect
May 27, 1865,

By order of the Secretarv of War,
E. D, TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant General.
(Official,)
E, D, Townsend,
Assistn.nt Adjutant Genercd.
Lieut,-Cr-il, J.vaies M. S.vnderson — Present,

War Department,
Adjutant General's Office,
Washington, June 19, 1865,
Special Orders, }
No, 315, [
[Extract.}

53, By direction of the President, so much of Special Or
ders, No, 288, Paragraph 17, from this office, dated June 8,
1865, as re-instates Lieutenant-Colonel James M. Sanderson,
Major and Additional Aid-de-Camp, is hereby amended so as
to restore him Avithout loss of pay.

By order of the Secretary of War,
E. D. TOWNSEND,
As.s't Adj. Oen'l.
: (Official)
E. D. Townsend,
Ass't Adj. Gen'l.
'Lt. Col. James. M. Sanderson,
-No. -129 Remsen St.,
Brooklyn, N. Y

139 War Department,
Adjutaid General's Office,
Washington, Aug. 15, 1865.
,-Specl5.l Orders, [
No. 440. ) [Ecctracl.]
29. Under the provisions of General Orders No. 79, May 1,
1865, from this Office, the services of the foUoAving named
officers being no longer needed, tliej^ are hereby honorably
¦mustered out of the service of the United States. They Avill
.receive no final payments until they shall have satisfied the
Pay Department that they are not indebted to the United
•States. Lt. Col. James M, Sanderson, Major, Additional Aid-de-
Oamp and Captain, Commissary of Subsistence, U, S, Volun
teers, By order of the Secretary of War,
E. D. TOWNSEND,
.dss't Adj. Gen'l.
.(Official)
M. D, Townsend, A.A. G.

^\.IV EFISODE

During the last session of the so-called Confederate Con
gress, a committee of that body made a report, in answer to
the charge of cruelty to prisoners, of Avhich the following is
an extract : — THE FEDERAL COL. SANDERSON'S TE.~TniONY.
" In connection Avith this point, your committee refer to the
testimony of a Federal officer. Col. Jas. M. Sanderson, whose
letter is annexed to the deposition of Maj, Turner. He testi
fies to the full delivery of the clothing and supplies from the
North, and to the humanity and kindness of the Confederate
officers, specially mentioning Lt, Bossieux, commanding the
Belle Isle. His letter Avas addressed to the President of the
United States Sanitary Commission, and Avas be3'ond doubt
received by him, having been forwarded by the regular flag
of truce. Yet the scrupulous and honest gentlemen compos
ing that Commission have not found it convenient for their
purposes to insert this letter in their publication. Had they
been really searching for the truth, this letter Avould have
aided them in finding it,"
Also the subjoined : —
* * * "And this is confirmed by the Federal Colonel
Sanderson, avIio states that the average number of deaths per
month, on Belle Isle, Avas from " tAvo to five — more frequently
the lesser number." The sick Avere promptlj^ removed from
the Island to the hospitals in the city."
From the introduction as published in the NoAV-York Tri
bune, from Avhich the above are taken, I learn that the accom
panying documents, including Maj. Turner's deposition and
my letter, were destroyed by fire. As the deductions draAvn
from that letter are false and calculated to injure me in the
estimation of my friends, I deem it my duty to place the miss
ing document on record for the purpose of showing the bad

142
faith of the committee in question, and to enable those suffi--
ciently interested, to deduce from my own Avords precisely
what I did sa}^
In order to obtain a proper understanding- of the reasons
Avhich impelled me to Avrite the letter aforesaid, I would sim
ply state, that whilst a prisoner I Avas unfortunate enough to
lose my wife — my companion in life for tAventy-five years,
Avhose last expiring- moments Avere embittered b\- the thoughts
of my sufiering, as seen through the darkly colored recitals,
of returning prisoners. SorroAving for this unnecessar}- grief,.
I accidentally became possessed of certain infornuition, Avhich
I thought it my duty to convey at once to some one through
Avhom it might be spread broadcast throughout the North,
and happily relieve the mental Avoes of thousands similarly
situated, I Avas also desirous of, correcting what I conceived'
was an accidental error, obtaining great currenc}- at home, in
regard to the disijosition of the clothing and supplies sent us
by the Government and the various charitable societies, Avhich
Avas causing much ill-feeling- and some inconvenience, as the
Confederate authorities refused to issue CA'cn our private
boxes until it Avas corrected,
HaA'ing, as I supposed, a sufficiently intimate ac(|uaintancc
Avith the Rev, Henry W, Bellows, the eminent divine and
popular President of the U, S, Sanitary Commission, I selected
him as the most fitting person to Avhom such a ci:)ininunication
should be addressed; arguing that, as a minister ofthe Gospel,
and an official disseminator ofthe truth, he Avould gladly avail
himself of the opportunity to pour oil on the troubled waters
and correct a needless error ; but, for reasons of sufficient
validity in his judgment, he declined to publish the document
— leaving for our enemies to do so, Avith their f)wn deductions
for his refusal. Luckily, among the very foAv articles brought
Avith me from my prison-house Avere the notes from which the
letter in question Avas compiled; and, although I am unable to
give a copy verbatim, litercdim, et punctuatim, the foUoAving is.
sufficiently near it to ansAver all necessary purposes : —

143
"Rev, W, H, Bellows, ]
Pres, U. S. Saidlary Gomm'u, V
Washington, D, C, j
'¦ Dear Sir : You w-ill doubtless be somewhat surprised on,
learning that I haA'o resuiucd my connection with the Sani
tary Commission in this unexpected locality, and hold my ap
pointment from the Confederate authorities — avIio, for the
purpose of ensuring and systematizing the delivery of clothing,
subsistence, and hospital stores, so bountifully furnished by
the U, S, Government, The Christain Aid Society of Phila
delphia, The Baltimore American Relief Fund, and your own
most munificent and praiseworthy association, have selected
live Federal officers, (mysi.'lf being of the number,) to Avhom is
assigned the pleasing duty; and, since the tenth of November,
a majority of them have been continuously engaged in its per
formance, " On BeUe Island, the principal depot of tho Federal prison
ers, over six thousand (6,000) men have been inspected and
furnished Avith articles of clothing — a large number receiving
as many as six different garments each. In the city prisons
and hospitals about four thousand (4,000) more have been
similarly appareled, and twenty-eight hundred (2,800) outfits
forwarded to Danville to meet the necessities of those con
fined there. The clothing distributed above, Avas mainly fur
nished by the GoA-'ernment and j-our Commission ; and com
prised shoes, socks, draAvers, pants, coats, shirts, great coats,
or blankets and caps,
" The subsistence received from our GoA^ernment Avas not
confided to our charge, nor have Ave any direct control of the
hospital stores from tbe different charitable societies; although
we have ample opportunities of seeing large quantities dis
tributed at the various hospitals. A strict account, hoAvever,
as Ave are informed, is being kept by the officials in charge for
the purpose of shoAving its disposition,
" On Sunday last, a portion of the Board visited the hospitals
for the purpose of obtaining personal knowledge of their con
dition and requirements, and decide hoAv much of the very
liberal donation (tAvo thousand dollars U, S, currency) placed
at our disposal by Brig.-Gen. Jaraes S. Wadsworth, should be
invested for the sick and Avounded. Whilst engaged in this
scrutiny I had an opportunity of inspecting the books kept
at the principal hospital (in which are included the statistics
of all the others, known as prison hospitals,) and made the fob
lowing memoranda, Avhich I send you for the purpose of cor
recting the exaggerations so prevalent at this moment through-

144
out the North, commencing, as you will observe, Avith the
month of June, and ending with the past month of November.
As accessory to the condensed statement, Dr, Wilkins, the
Surgeon-in- Chief keeps a detailed account of every death-
embracing the name, age, profession, rank, company, regiment,
place of residence, date, and ciuse of mortality th-at h-as oc
curred since he assumed charge.

1863,

.Montli.

Xo, of DeaUis.

Av. Nu, treated daily.

June,

2

55

July,

13

85

August,

6

100

September,

21

105

October,

115

5U0

November,

346

10.50

Total, 506
- This does not include Belle Isle, where, as I learn from
unofficial sources, the average number of deaths for some
time past ranges from twelve to fifteen, more frequently the
lesser number ; on one occasion the number reached thirteen,
but at no time has it exceeded these figures. The number of
graves amount Ijy actual count ti.i seventy-eight. The num
ber of prisoners confined here since the first of August, has
aA'oraged from four thousand to sixty-seven hundred, the latter
being the present count,
" Ofthe officer in charge of the Island, Lieut, V. Bossieux,
I cannot speak too highly. His humanity, his kindness of
heart and untiring efibrts to secure the comfort and AveU-
being of those placed in liis keeping, entitle him to our high
est rcspuctand thanks,
'• It i< perhaps unfortunate that tliere is no regular hospital
on the Inland for the treatment ofthe several cases, especially
as a rise in the river renders it almost impossible to convey
them at the short notice (sometimes required) to the regular
hospital intended for them in the city. This deficiency can
not but conduce in cert-ain casus to fatal results, although I
am not prepared to refer to any such at present,'^
"It is a source of deep regret, that the unnecessary and ex
aggerated accounts so Avidely disseminated by the Chaplains
and Surgeons, avIio, Avith zealous haste abandoned us, sick and
in prison to our sins and sorrows, have been permitted to re-

* This dfficiencj was remediel within forty-sight hours after my letter -was
written.

145
main so long uncontradicted. To thein Ave owe entirely the
late order prohibiting the further receipt of clothing and
subsistence ; and Avhilst we may in charity accord to them the
merit of striving to benefit us, the result evinces the truth of
the Avell knoAvn expression, -- S-avo us from our friends."
The misstatement as to the disposition of the clothing and
subsistence being officially corrected, it is to be hoped, the
amende honorable being made, that a like liberal reversal of
orders may ensue.
"Prison life, at best, is not desirable, nor can men deprived
of liberty, think amiably of their keepers. That many of us
are suffering deeply and grievously cannot be denied, but that
Ave as a body are suffering more deeply or more grievously than
any brave or patriotic man or officer should be prepared to.
do for his cause or his country, I Avill not for an instant allow.
" In common Avith my fellow-prisoners I am most anxious to-
return to the comforts of home and those I love, but I disdain
being deemed a martyr for the sufferings undergone in Libby
or claim that my Government should recede one inch from a
well taken position for any such considerations ; and although
I do not speak for any other than myself, I know of many gen
tlemen who thoroughly coincide Avith me. Believing that the
information I give you will justify the length of my communi
cation I make no apology for it but subscribe myself,
Very respectfully Your obed't serv't.
J. M. SANDERSON,
Lt.-Gol. A. D. G. & G. S:.
How anything in that letter can be construed into an ad
mission of " the full delivery of the clothing and supplies,"
I cannot understand; nor do I concede that by " speciaUy man-
tioning Lt. Bossieux, Commanding the BeUe Isle," I was at.aU
endorsing the conduct of any other official.
That Ave delivered twelve thousand eight hundred suits'.of
clothing admits of no denial ; but was that aU that was sent
from the North? And, in reference to the subsistence, I can
only repeat the words of my letter, that " although we had
ample opportunities of seeing large quantities distributed a-fc
the various hospitals," we also had good reason to believe that
equally large quantities were distributed elsewhere.

146
As regards the discrepancy as to the number of deaths on
Belle Island, betAveen the committee's report and my notes, I
confess that I am at a loss to reconcile or understand it. It
may arise from a clerical error, but if there Avere seventy-eight
graves of persons who had died during the space of six
months, the commonest acquaintance Avith arithmetic might
bave taught these astute gentlemen that there was a mistake
.somoAvhere. But coupled as it is Avith so many other misstate
ments, I am compelled perforce to ascribe it simply and solely
to their inabilitj' or unwillingness to speak the truth.
As a matter of history it may be proper to state that my
first letter, in Avhich this subject of the number of deaths was
much more unfavorably treated, Avas stopped by the Confed
erate authorities, who required me to show Avhence I drew
my information that " from two to fiA-e were dying daily on
Belle Island." On learning that it was based entirely on the
statements of the men on the Island, I Avas shoAvn the official
.returns made by Lieut. Bossieux to his commanding officer ;
but as the disparity Avas so great, I refused to receive it as
¦authentic, and for several days held my letter in abeyance,
undesided whether to forAvard it secretly or suppress it alto
gether. At length, it occurred to me that a visit to the grave
yard itself miglit settle definitively the mooted point, and on
mentioning the idea to Major Turner, he immediately gave
orders to have my companion and mj'self taken thither. HaA'
ing satisfied myself by inquiry and examination that each
-grave contained but a single corpse, I Avas obliged to modify
my statement in accordance Avith the evidence thus presented
.me, and thus corrected again sent forAvard my letter for trans
mission. After examining it ; I Avas requested by the authori
ties to retain it for a single day, and then make such modifica
tions as circumstances Avould justify. On my succeeding visit
to the Island, I Avas carried by Lieut. Bossieux, to inspect the
noAV hospital accomodations then in process of erection, and
introduced to the Surgeon that day assigned to duty. Of
course, the desired correction Avas made, and my letter finally
forAvarded to its destination. Why. it Avas not published is for
others to explain ; Avhat I had written Avas stated in good

147
faith, and based on what I deemed proper and conclusive evi
dence. My objects were to correct error, assuage needless
grief, obtain some mitigation of severe and unnecessary re
striction, -and show to the enemy that some of us at least, were
not afraid to speak or to hear the truth ; and although 1 was
foiled in my intentions, I feel now, as then, that they Avere
praiseworthy and beneficial.

To NEAL I>OM^,
Ex-Brig. -Gen. qf Volunteers, and Philanthropihist, out op place.
" Hath vice a
Charter got, that none must rise, but sucb, who
Of the devil's faction are ? The way to
Honor isnot evermore the way to
Hell ; a, virtuous man may climb,"
Sir: That you should haA^e throAvn the Avhole Aveight of j^our
great ire upon so quiet a person as myself, not only excites
my wonder, but provokes the astonishment of those to whom
you are best known. An humble individual, I cannot but be
flattered at the intense interest exhibited in my " sayings and
doings," which, to all but yourself I fear, must have appeared
" flat, stale and unprofltable," But says the poet,
" Theyoft'times take more pains
Who look for pins, than those who find out slais."
and doubtless the man Avho impales the gnat conceives him
self as profitably employed as he Avho hunts the elephant; that
a Brigadier-General of so distinguished a name, hoAvever,
should have busied himself with my afiairs, to the exclusion
of other and graver duties, is both inexplicable and flattering.
Your great merits as a Avould-be. reformer were not unknoAvn

148
to me, for among my earhest business recollections is engrafted
the name of Neal Dow, and the " Maine Liquor Law ;" and
although a thousand miles intervened betAveen us, and our
specialties were antagonistic, I did not Avithhold a limited
admiration for one aa-Iioso efforts I supposed to be earnest and
sincere. Temperate myself I could pleasurably partake of
" the goods the Gods give us " Avithout excess and without
alloy : but unfortunately there are those among us Avho are
not so happily constituted, and to reform these I hoped your
labors Avould be efficacious. Your laAv being sumptuary, and
therefore open to censure, Avas ncA-ertheless philanthropic
and aimed ostensibly at the public good. It Avas tried, and
failed, but you achieved your end by riding into public
notoriety, although on a weak-kneed-hobb}'. When this ac
cursed rebellion broke out, as a prominent poUtician of the
dominant party, you were an early applicant for high military
honors. A soldier neither by constitution or training, yon
mistook your calling, and no friend loved you enough to cor
rect j'our error. As Colonel of a regiment, you might have
been profitably employed in civic duties, Avithout displaying
too much, your ignorance ; but fascinated by the glare of
command, you sought and obtained, undeservedly higher
rank. " It is an unfortunate thing for fools, that their pretensions should rise in
an inverse ratio wilh their abilities, and their presumption with their weak
ness." You did not belie the sentiment. It is perhajjs, not
becoming in me to dAvell too minutely on your actions 'ere we
met ; but I may mention, as a matter of history, that your
eagerness to get in to the only fight in which you Avere ever
engaged, was barely excelled by your haste to get out of it:
and it has been suggested that having forgotten something,
your ardor in its recovery carried you so far to the rear that
the enemy found you c[uite out of your own lines, like
" Vaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itself
And falls on the other side."
ThroAvn, during my military life, into constant association

149
with such men as Wadsworth, Reynolds, Meade, and others-,
(then but Brigadier-Generals,) my standard of that rank was
high ; and, I confess, I Avas quite unprepared for the speci
men for the first time presented me in prison. Shortly after
my arrival in Libby, whilst Avatching witli curious eye scenes
¦so novel and characters so queer, my attention was drawn to
a little mian, armed with a huge hammer, who, ever and anon
sinking from view, belabored the floor with heavy blows.
Amused at the extreme seriousness infused into this appar-
«ntly aimless operation, I at length inquired of a bystander
what that little man was doing.
" Driving nails," was the curt reply.
" He 's a carpenter, then ?"
" No, Sir ; he 's a Brigadier-General. That 's Neal Dow."
All efforts on the part of the Confederates having for their
object your exchange for a certain number of pianos, (al
leged to have been " appropriated to your own use,") coming
to naught, you Avere sent to Mobile, as Ave were informed,
for trial. There you remained for more than four months ;
returning to us, as I remember, in the last week of October,
with " a light heart and a thin pair of breeches."
As has been stated already in my defence, some flunkey
(Atwood, I believe,) suggested your being taken into our mess,
as being the best in the prison, and therefore most suitable
for a Brigadier-General ; but, not being able to see it in that
light, I decidedly objected. That you were made acquainted
with my reasons for this refusal — that you were neither an
officer nor a gentleman, — any one cognizant of Atwood's pro
pensities cannot for an instant doubt. That you should be
angry, and desire to hold no further intercourse with me is
neither to be wondered at nor criticised. Ttvo people were
pleased. Necessity subsequently compeUed me to apply to
you for Avhat I was perfectly entitled to. Your conduct on
-each occasion Avas short and discourteous. Undeterred by
your ungentlemanly manner, I persisted until successful. I
owe you no thanks, as'I asked no favor ; and no one admires
a mule simply for his bray.
Selected by yoiif ' own Government as the most proper per

150
son (because the ranking officer) to distribute its generous
bounty to its suffering soldiers, you Avere taken to Belle Isle,
by the Confederates, Avith something, for them, of deference
and respect. An ambulance, as I heard, was pro-vided, and
you Avere permitted to address the men without restraint.
The incident, as related to me, was characteristic. Mounting
the highest point on the parapet, you asked attention, and
thus delivered yourself : —
" Gomrades and Fellow-soldiers .' I have come here at the
request of your Government and my own to inquire into your
grievances, and redress your Avrongs. I have a large amount
of food and clothing sent me b_y our good rulers at home for
distribution among you all. There is, I believe, an ample sup
ply, Avith the expectation of more coming ; and I want all of
you Avho are naked or hungry, to come to me. Come one,
come all !"
And they came ! Five thousand half naked and half starved
sufferers, Avith piles of well-filled boxes almost Avithin their
grasp, needed no second invitation. Pouring forth from tents,
and holes, and burrows, they pressed on every side. Surging
and swaying like Avaves of the sea, they trampled and crushed
each other, whilst striving to reach the narrow exit,^ until the
weaker dropped from exhaustion, or were borne unresistingly
along ; you, in the meanwhile, wringing your hands like a
frightened child at this tempest of your own raising. Fortu
nately, the Commandant of the Island, Lt. Bossieux, in spite
of his fear that this living flood would carry aAvay all obstruc
tions, succeeded in driving back the out-cropping crowd,
without injury to a man. After this .evidence of your forensic
poAvers, any further exhibition thereof was pretermitted.
" Of these matters I am not personally cognizant, but think
they can be substantiated " by better testimony than that ad
duced by you to my desired ruin." At all events, the incident
is so semblable that Ave may say with the Italians —
" Si non e vero, e ben trovato."
Impressed by the sufferings of the unfortunate on that

151
prison Isle, you very properly sought to obtain some ameliorar-
tion of its horrors. To effect this, you addressed a protest tO'
Gen. Winder, which (as you yourself have stated) Avas
couched in strong and earnest language — so strong and so
earnest that it gained /or you, at least, relief. Taking into
consideration the fact that thousands of your fellow-creatures
were most deeply interested in the success of your efforts, if;
may be regarded by the thoughtless and uninitiated as being
unfortunate that your Roman firmness and Spartan stoicism
would not permit you to unbend at this momentous instant ;
but, Avith the keen instincts of a shrewd politician, you felt
that it Avould have ruined you in the eyes of your blatant as-.
sociates, had you yielded an iota of derision and scorn, of
crimination and defiance to the common foe ; and, in order to
enjoy the political honors of supposed martyrdom at home,
you gained for your comrades the physical endurance of real
martyrdom there. With this hope you had your say ; and, as
a consequence, you were relieved, but the real sufferers were
not. At least, such is your claim ; but, unfortunately, even
this thin lamina of plated patriotism is abraded, and the;
pinchbeck basis begins to appear. One of your own Avitnessea,.
the Rebel Lieutenant who is charged with having remort
strated with me for my cruelty, suddenly appears on the
scene and swears that you were relieved at his request, be
cause your " manner of doing business was so unsystematio.
and loose" that he was forced to ask for others to be appointed
in your place. This same witness also swears that the " men
who had left friends, business, and comfortable homes to help
save their country from being blotted out of the map of na
tions,— many of them educated gentlemen,"— absolutely cursed
you I and that, in your anger, you characterised them as " the
rakings and scrapings of Europe." Then it was your ox that
was gored ; but, like a Christian, you forgave them when they
cursed me. At his request, then, you Avere superseded by
your juniors in rank, but your seniors in judgment; and, finaUy,
the man you most hated became your successor— reaping
laurels which you had sown, and gathering honors where you
had planted. Prom this moment your rage against me cui-

152
minated, and from that era I was doomed to have greatness
thrust upon me. "The po-«ver to give creates us all our foes,"
But ignoring the many evils thus warded from your head,
you ungratefully exaggerate my shortcomings, and heighten
my pernicious doings ; Avhilst I, poor soul, unconscious that a
Brigadier-General was chronicling my life, or
" A chiel amang us, takin notes,"
pursued the even tenor of my way, without heeding my
biographer, or eA^en " throwing a sop to Cerberus."
The status of a. military spy, though his function be neces
sary, has never been deemed honorable. The risks they run,
and the dangers they encounter, though worthy of the bravest,
Tfail to impress the thinking public with the slightest sympa
thy with their fate, or respect for their name. The genius of
a Cooper is insufficient to rescue from partial infamy the
memory of one of the best of his class ; and even the virtues
of an Andr6 could not ennoble his specious calling. For
tbe social spy, there is not even the poor apology so grudg
ingly granted his military prototype. In public life, the
?neanest position is that of a detective ; and who among the
honorable, young or old, does not despise the " tell-tale" or the
"informer"? In the army we haA-e the Inspector, Avhose
duties though prying, are nevertheless open and legitimate,
necessary and improving. The self-constitnted Censorship
instituted by you in Libbj' possesses none of these advanta
ges. Simply, covert and tortuous, punishment and revenge
were its only objects. " It is a note
Of upstart greatness to observe and watch
For those poor trifles, which the noble mind
Neglects and scorns,''
Your ardent imagination, however, went further ; for where
the hoped for fault came tardily to hght, you played the part

15;{
of midwife, and assisted in the delivery. In my case, if fame
belies you not, you tried to impregnate me, unconscious,
•vith crime, and then attempted the " Cesarean operation,"
but lacking obstetrical skill, you only produced an abortion.
Your unfortunate victim is now " doing as well as could be
expected," Avhilst you are poisoned by jour oavu virus.
" The man recovered frora the bite
The dog it was that died!"
Your career in the army has been one of the mysteries of
the war. Wh}- you went into it, no one could tell ; how you
got out of it, no one Avould say. Let me try - my hand in
guessing at both. Indebted for whatever of reputation you
may have possessed, to a wrong-headed and impracticable
idea, you were foisted on the army and the people as theprop-
erest champion to encounter King Cotton, because, forsooth,
you had once a tussel with King Alcohol ; but finding cold
iron more uncongenial than cold water, you turned your atten
tion to the Harmonies, making up in the Piano what you
lacked in the Forte. ThroAvn, necessarilj^ into association
with military men, you soon discovered that deeds, not words,
were the current coin among soldiers ; and finding you could
not emulate their virtues, sought to surpass their vices.
Your tongue was sharpened, not your sword. Confusing the
democratic creed Avith the Revised Regulations, you firmly
believed aU men were born free and equal, but, as Brigadier-
General, you were entitled to most of the spoils. Ever a
politician, you only regarded man as a voter, and carried into
camp the traditions of the hustings. Never having " set a
squadron in the field " — Avithout the knoAvledge or the abiUty to
command— accustomed only to the strategy of the polls — alike
incapable of compeUing respect, or exciting admiration, you
stood confessedly, a pigmy among giants, a lamentable picture
of poUtical preferment. Powerless to gain honors, you sought
to gain wealth ; and in an incredible short period acquired a
notoriety for practising "The good old plan,
To keep all you get, and get all you can,"

154
equaUed by none since the days of the Gaelic chief. Many
generations AviU pass aAvay before the name of Neal Dow is
buried in oblivion, for
" The evil that men do lives after them ;
The good is oft interred with their bones,"
I much doubt, however, that your coffin wiU be crowded Avith
the virtues. At length, derelict in your duty, and whilst ex
hibiting a bad example, you Avere taken by an enraged and
plundered foe and carried to prison. Here you exhibited an
other phase. Undignified, petty and selfish, — resembling in
person and dress an old Avoman, and in disposition and tem
per a malicious boy, you threw aside the dignity of the officer
in discarding the uniform, and in assuming the character of
a commissioned " tell tale," strove to Avring from the fears of
your comrades, that consideration and respect they could not
accord to your position or person. On reaching your own
lines, you endeavored by specious tales and gross misrepresen
tations, to excite commiseration for unexperienced wrongs,
and in order to exalt your OAvn patriotism decried that of
others. Fatigued at length Avith your flatulence, and alarmed at the
accumulating evidence of j'our malfeasance, the Government
looked coldly upon you, and an unofficial intimation that your
resignation Avould be accepted, secured the coveted document ;
although two Aveeks had hardly elapsed since j^ou publicly
stated your determination to rejoin your command, and fight
it out to the bitter end.
Such, in brief, is your record. To elaborate it demands an
abler pen. You are now, fortunately for the cause, out of the
service. The last of a long list of incapables, whatever of
shame or dishonor entails upon our section, owes its origin to
such as you. War among a pacific people, in its inchoate
state, is always subject to such evils, and such pretenders.
" In civil broils, the worst of men may rise,"
Unfortunately, however, not only humanity, but morality, is

155
scandalized by such men, who, as-^ a Avitty writer once said',.
"pray one day on their knees and six days on their neighbors.'^
A foAv days ago the pleasure-seeking portion of our resi
dents Avere electrified by the announcement that Heller, the
prince of tricksters, Avould in full sight of the audience, cause
a human being to become invisible. Placing his subject in a
deep recess, directly against a Avhite surface, he suddenly
thrcAV the bright rays of a concealed light between it and the
audience, from Avhose vicAv it immediately disappeared. A few
moments after, the Gyges, as it is termed, advanced a pace or
two, directly into the raj's of the light, and became not only
visible but transparent, for immediately behind him, and seem
ingly through him, was seen a fantastic figure reminding one
of the traditionary enemy of mankind — the Devil. So Avitli
pseudo-philanthropy, as viewed by the admiring world the
grosser particles are hidden by the bright beams evolved by
Charity and Humanity, but a nearer approach proves them to
be very transparent, disclosing other and more ignoble senti
ments behind them. In your case is presented the spectacle
of one, once honored and respected, struggling to gain mere
tricious applause by super-erogant censure of your fellows,
and when subjected to the same analytical test, proving but
base alloy.
It is not uncommon, however, to find men specially virtuous
on oiie point, remarkably vicious on all others ; or, as is more
elegantly expressed by the poet,
" Compound for sins they are inclined to,
By damning those they have no mind tto ;"
In years gone by the City of Philadelphia rejoiced in a
physician Avhose proficiency was almost equaUed by his pro
fanity. Visiting one day in the family of a noted Quaker, a.
violent storm arose just as he was leaving. Turning to his
patient, who was ranked as one of the shrewdest of his de
nomination, he requested the loan of his great coat..
" On one condition only, Doctor," was the reply-
" Name it."

156
" Thee must promise me not to use profane language while
thee wears it, for it is a garment formed of good habits."
" Very well," responded the Doctor, " I'll promise." On the
foUoAving day as he returned the coat, the disciple of Penn close
ly questioned him as to the performance of the stipulation.
" Thou'rt sure thee did not swear, while wearing it. Doc
tor ?"
" Oh no !" retorted the medico, " I hadn't the slightest de
sire to SAvear, but the d- — est inclination to lie and steal I"
Substitute " drinking " for " swearing " and the coat might
prove as good a fit as " the Captains " did of yore.
It was a barefaced, but most approved, plan to cry " stop
thief " to me, at the very moment you Avere enjoying your
own iU-gotten spoils. But robbery, like murder, will some
times out, when least expected. You opened your mouth, in
Portland, and performed that extraordinary acrobatic feat of
" putting your foot in it," recalling to mind your query, " did
-ever a man drink without making a beast of himself?" and
my answer, " did ever you talk Avithout making an ass of your
self?" When you told " that little story " abont the two heavy
trunks, you didn't, then, " see the nub ofthe joke." The laugh
comes in now, but I hardly think you will enjoy it. And, by
the way, that story was unfinished. Let me supply the sequel.
As you Avere saying, you brought away from Libby Prison
" two large heavy trunks ^' for which the rebels refused you
transportation, forcing you to call upon your brother officers
to assist you, a contingency already forseen weeks previous,
according to Adj't Knaggs ; and subjecting you to be snubbed
by a junior officer, according to Col. Farnsworth. On reach
ing the Federal flag of truce boat, you met Brig.-Gen. Lee, for
whom you were exchanged, althongh it was generally sup
posed that Miss Belle Boyd had been made your equivalent.
This officer, just fresh from " God's Country" leaving his com
rades weU-fed and well cared for, with every opportunity for
supplying himself with those comforts of Avhich his own sec
tion was repnted so bare, contented himself witha small valise,
the weight of Avhich caused but little inconvenience to the

15T
bearer ; whUst you, direct from a prison replete with horrors,.
parting with a thousand comrades whose sufferings gripe your
sympathetic heart in the recital, " half-naked and half-starved,."'
coming to a land overfloAving Avith milk and honey, where
everything you brought Avas plenty and cheap, carried with
you two large heavy trunks, filled with articles for Avhich your
fellow-prisoners were suffering, one half, at least, of tvhich were
not your own I Hoav does the contrast strike you ? When
about to leave the Federal Steamer, this "man of war" quietly
seized his small valise, was on the point of carrying it him
self to the other boat, when the gallant and accomplished
Mulford, who is brave enough to be courteous even to an
enemy, ordered the Sergeant to relieve him of the burden;
then what dids't thou, thou " man of water ?"
" Put that valise doAvn, Sergeant," these were your words,
as repeated to me ; " J forbid you to touch it! When 1 left
Richmond, the Confederates would give me no assistance^ and
you shall give him none !"
" Sergeant 1" calmly replied the unmoved Colonel ; " Youi
will do as Ibid you ! Gen, Dow, I have nothing Avhatever ta
do with your treatment by the Confederates : I simply know
Avhat devolves upon me, and I shall do it, regardless of your
wishes or the conduct of others. If they forget what is due^
to an officer, I do not."
" Por the truth of this I do not vouch, not being present ; in,
fact I was as far distant, at that moment, from the point in
question as you were when you learned that I had betrayed
you to the Rebels ; but, as I have before remarked, in Italian^
" if it be not true, it is well-founded."
But, speaking of Italians, let me bring to your notice a
single item in the vast aggregate of your charges against me..
" Col. di Cesnola, of the 4th N. Y. Cavalry (an officer of the
Sardinian army) saAV, heard, and knew much of Col. Sanderson,,
and for the last two or three months held no communication,
whatever Avith him — so certain was his conviction of his infi-
deHty to the country. He will gladly furnish any information
in his possession, as he believes the good of the service re
quires Col. Sandeeson's dismissal from it." Col.: Cesnola, on

158
being called upon to furnish this information, briefly replies :
I have never made such an assertion, nor have I authorized
any officer to make it in my name. To accuse a man of being
a traitor or disloyal to his country requires a great deal of evi
dence to shoAV it ; and I am happy to say that I have not seen
a?i2/ evidence which would justify me in calling Col. Sander
son by such a name."
'Twas shrewdly conceived, and came near to be successful.
counting on my proud spirit and disinclination to parley with
a foe, and laying some stress perhaps on the revengeful char
acter of his nation, you felt safe in putting such Avords into
Cesnola's mouth, knowing the ill-feeling existing between us ;
but you forgot he Avas a soldier and a gentleman. Satisfied
in my owm mind that, hoAvever inimical he might feel towards
me personally, he Avas of approA^ed courage; aud, as
•¦ None but cowards lie,"
I did not hesitate an instant, but addressed him the very first
letter I indited after learning the charges against me. This,
unfortunately, miscarried. Two inonths after, I sent him an
other; but this, under a mistaken impression of the power of
the Commission, he declined to answer in writing, preferring
to testif}^ in person. Convinced, nevertheless, that you had
misrepresented him, I then called on him ; and; after fully
stating the character of the Court, and the injurious effect of
your statement in thus misquoting him, he unhesitatingly gave
the desired reply — distincth' fastening upon you
"An odious, damned lie ;
Upon my soul, a lie — a,wicked lie!"
Before dismissing you, as I trust, forever, I must relate an
incident so apposite in its character as to excuse its introduc
tion. Sauntering- through the town some days ago, my attention
was attracted to a Avater tank, exposed at the door of a dealer
in such commodities. Amused by the gambols of the deni
zens of this watery Avorld, I stopped to scan them. The

159
keeper of the shop — an ancient and a hoary man, redolent of
tar, and a " most fish-like smell," scenting in me a probable
customer, emerged from his lair to chaunt his Avares. Prime
in order he praised the Carp— that popinjay of fishes, with its
rich golden scarlet, and varied bands of pearly pink, forming
the semblance of a button, bringing vividly to my mind your
" get up" in prison ; when, arrayed in all your glory, you ex
hibited yourself to the Avondering gaze of verdant "Johnnies,"
who, fresh from the backwoods, Avere undecided Avhether to
regard 3^ou as a Turkish Bey or a scare-croAv. As this thought
came into my head, I smiled ; AA'hereat my piscatory Mentor,
finding me inclined to be merrj', narrated many Avonderful
traits of the finny tribe. Of one that, though quick, comely,
and interesting, he was nevertheless a disagreeable inmate of
an aquarium — being exceedingly quarrelsome, a>nd having a
bad habit of attacking the eyes of its comrades, in order to
blind them to its own peculiarities : this was the Sucker. Of
another, that throve as well in hot as in cold water. Of a
third, that he pilfered the Whelk-shell of his covering ; whilst
a fourth, in turn, deprived him of his prey.
Oh, fish, fish ! how art thou fleshified !"
But Avhat particular^ claimed my attention Avas a species of
watery mushroom, AAdiich belonged, as I Avas informed, to the
family of " Anemones " and rejoiced in the name of Actinia
Garneola, which, being indigenous to the State of Maine, you
may possibly knoAv. Its peculiarities also may properly com
mend it to your notice. With its " tentackles," as my inform
ant termed them, Avhich are outspreading and grasping, it
seizes everything that comes in its way, and is noted as being
the biggest thief in the tank.
"By the way Cap tin," said this hoary Fishmonger, "it
always reminds me of a little story, and as it only takes a
minute, I'U teU it to you. In days gone by Avhen abohtioners
were not so plenty as at present, a few earnest seekers after
truth having by great good luck, secured an old sea dog fresh
from the coast of Africa, pUed him Avith questions as to the
manners, habits and customs of the native, in his free and un-

160
converted state, until they had exhausted as they supposed
every subject under the sun. As they Avere about to leave
him, hoAvever, one of them bethought himself of their religious
state, and earnestly asked of the Avell-pumped sailor ; ' Cap
tain, do the negroes in Dahomey keep Sunday ?' "
" Keep Sunday 1" replied the astonished son of Neptune —
" Yes, and every other darned thing they can lay their hands on I"
I greatly marveled, as I Avended my Avay, if you had ever
visited Dahomey.
And now, farewell. For the good you have unintentionally
done me, I thank you ; that you have failed is no fault of
yours. You did your best, and if you lacked success it was
simply because " Slander meets no regard from noble minds,
Only the base believe, what the base only utter,''
With these, at least, you are not without credit, and from them
you cannot fail to obtain your meed of praise for the malice
with which you have pursued me ; for the persistence you
have manifested in seeking my dishonor ; for the industry you
have exhibited in gathering my " sayings and doings ;" for the
pertinacity you have displayed iu planting your calumnies ;
and especially for the total disregard for truth, honor and jus
tice which has marked your whole conduct in this affair. To
such sympathizers I cheerfully commend you, assuring you
that from myself you shall ever have my heartiest contempt,
and my sincerest praj^ers for your speedy return to the paths
of virtue and honesty. Yours, &c., &c.,
JAMBS M. SANDERSON.

APPENDIX

Annexed will be fonnd such evidence as has not already been quoted by the-
Commi-sion, but which is added to sub.?tantiate certain points in my defence,
pi-iine amon,g them my charges against Strei,!;ht for ungentlem-anly and cowarJly
conduct, and ag.iinst Dow for knavery and sneaking. As these persons were-
not on trial before the Commission, the members thereof, very properiy, did not
deem themselves called upon to pass on the testimony affecting Iheir character
fnrlher than a mere notice of my principal accuser. But as I now arr.iign him
before tbe great bar of Public Opinion, I add the proofs on wbich I base my
charges.

A LETTER i.-r,o.-a Bkig. Gen. A. E. SHIR AS,
Office Gomm'y Gen'l q
AVAsHixG-roN Cii-Y, March i, 1S()5,

Office Commjj Oen'l of Siibsinience, f

James M, Sandekson,
Late Li. Cold: C.S. V.—
Sir : In reply to yonrs of the Tth inst. I would respectfully state that I first
knew you iu the early part of the Rebellion, and that you were then engaged,
in connection with the Sanitary Commission, in teaching and instructing the Vol
unteer troops in cooking their rations.
Your status as an Issuing and Disbursing officer, whilst in this Department,
¦was excellent.
AVhilst Ctiief C. S, of the First Corps, I never heard of any fault found with
yon in tbe execution of your duties.
Your accounts with this ofQce are closed, and I am not aware of any indebt
edness to this Department for property or funds.
My knowledge is not positive, but I am under the impression that whilst
serving with tho Sanitary Commission, you did it gratuitously,
I am, very respectfully,
Your obed't serv't,
A. E, SHIRAS,
Bt.Bng. Gen'l A. 0. 0.8.

II
FROxM Brig, Gex. WM. POWELL,
[Commanding 2d Cavalry Div., Dept. of 'West. 'Virgima.'\
SiK : During the month of October, 1863, I recollect distinctly of your visit
ing the hospital, and of your remaining but a day or so. While there, in con
versation with me, you called my attention to the fact of a secret organization
among the officers in Libby Prison, looking towards an attempt to escape, I
cautioned you at the time, as to whom you mentioned the matter, I afterwards
learned that you spoke of it to the Ward Master, who was a citizen prisoner
from Iowa — his name I cannot now call to mind ; he, however, spoke of the
matter to another citizen prisoner, a Mr, 'Vermillion from Iowa, who, I have no
doubt, did communicate the matter, in reference to the existence of a secret or
ganization, to the Rebel authorities. In this matter, after a personal examina
tion, I became well satisfied that you were innocent of any criminal intentions.
As to your conduct towards your fellow officers in the prison, I do not recol
lect of your having any trouble with any one, except Col, Streight, 51st Ind'a
Vols,, which upon personal investigation, I found had been provoked by Gol,
Streight, by an ungentlemanly and unofficer-like tirade of abuse upon you,
based entirely upon a misconstruction of your language imbodied in a petition
to the C. S, of the prison in reference to the ration issued to the officers in the
prison, I was aware of the fact that Col, Streight had succeeded in prejudicing
the minds of many of the officers against you, and I must confess that I had
become so myself; but then, as now, feeling it my duty to do justice to all men,
I suggested the propriety of allowing you an opportunity of an explanation upon
tbe different charges alleged against you. Accordingly I was chosen as the
proper person to demand of you an explanation, as to what seemed to the offi
cers to be your conduct on several occasions, and upon difi-erent subjects.
The explanations made by you to me, and afterwards presented by me to the
officers in my Department, gave very general satisfaction, and did much tore-
move the prejudice against you.

FROM Bkig, Gen, J, S. WADSWORTH,
A DEFENCE OF LT. COL. SAMDERSON.
To the Editor ofthe Kew-Tork Tribune—
SiK : My attention has just been called to a letter from your Annapolis cor
respondent, stating that, from the returned prisoners of War " fresh evidence
was obtained of Lt Col. Sanderson's perfidy."
It is evident, from all the accounts we get, that a bitter feud existed in Libby
Prison. If your correspondent had stated this, and that some of the officers in
tended to prefer charges against Lt, Col, Sanderson, no one would have objected
to it ; but, when he states that " evidence" was procured, he speaks of what he
could not have had, and what no one can have, short of an authorized investi
gation ; and, when you spread this statement before your fifty or one hundred
thousand readers, you make, unconsciously, I am sure, a poor return to a gal-

nil
Sant officer for long and mento-i-ious service in the field and long suffering in
jmson, from having volunteered in dangerous service not in the line of his
.duty. As it is understood that this whole matter is to be investigated by military
..authority, it is only proper for me now to say that, from a long acquaintance
\with Col, Sanderson, and having served for nearly two years in the same Corps
with him, I know of no officer who would, in my judgment, be less likely than
ihe to commit (he offence imputed to him ; and my astonishment will be equal to
¦any regret if a thorough investigation does not entirely exonerate him from any
Kiishonorable conduct. Your obed't servant,
JAMES S. WADSWORTH,
Apru. 5, 1864,

FROM Dii, ELISHA HARRIS,
[Member of ihe Board IT. S. Sanitary Commission.'] Fkbruakt (!, 1865,
Colonel : In replying to your inquiries regarding certain points connected
iwith your public services since the war began, 1 beg leave to state very briefly —
1st, That my personal acquaintance wiih your purposes to serve Ihe National
.•cause beg-an early in the month of June, 1861 ; when you asked me and other
jersons what means could be employed to instruct volunteer soldiers in the art
¦of preparing food in camp.
2d, About the 21st June, 1861, 1 was requested by Medical and other friends,
¦who were considering the prospective wants of the soldieis, to write to Gov. F.
D. Morgan at Albany, and request that he would provide for the toinpoiary
^support of a certain number of cooks, who should under your direction, serve
in camp with regiments of volunteers. The recpiest was granted and a sum of
.money promised for their payment I recollect iliat it became my duty to ad
vise and aid you in commencing such work, and that I saw you faithfully en
gaged in the details of the duty of preparing rations in tbe 33d N. Y. Vols., or
.some otber regiment at Washington and its vicinity, during the months of June
.and July, 1861, I think you met with much discouragement until jou finally
.achieved triumphant results in tbe 15th N. Y., a regiment of engineer.^.
At that time, and ever since, I had no doubt that you were prompted by the
highest patriotism and humanity to undertake tbat work. Indeed, in tbe city of
New-York, it was well-known that you were, from the attack on Fort Sumpter, iv
bold and manly defender of our National cause, and ready to serve in the war
in any way you could be most uselul, I believe you never received any money
for tbe service perfoimed for the benefit of the aimy during the period of my
personal knowledge of your labors, previous to your connection witb the Com
missary Department,
3d, I know that you prepared and submitted to me a valuable manual of in
structions to soldiers in the prijparalion of their rations, and that it was tubse-
-quently publisheil by the Commissary Department,

IV
4th. I saw you engaged in your official duties in the 22d Mass, "Vols,, and ad
mired the administration of. your Department,
5th, I cannot here forbear lo state to you a touching incident in the last days
of the patriolic General "U'ads-ivorth, that illustrates both the nobility of hfs na
ture and the unprejudiced and discerning character of his mind. On the Sth of
last March he met me, and stated that he wished to send a small invoice of sup
plies to his Boys, (soldiers of his old Division — tbe 1st of the First Corps,) who
were prisoners in Richmond and elsewhere in the Confederate States. 'We
walked together in the room ofthe clerk of-the S.anitary Commission, and he
then left a check for ^^3,000, to be immediately expended in certain food sup
plies then specified ; and, alter giving his simijle directions as to how the pack
ages should be marked, etc. he said " I prefer that Lt, Col, J, M, Sanderson be
the pel son to take the friendly oversight of these supplies when they reach
Richmond.'' I then asked bim if the evil reports that Streight and others had
set afloat were to be regaided as having any justifiable foundation. The Gen
eral replied , with peculiar emphasis, " Xo. noi ihe least : I know Sanoerson well
—he bears trouble and want with a peculiarly philosophical equanimity ; and
his own cheerfulness and his attempts to make the burden of his fellow-prison
ers lighter have been tbe causes of all the evil reports we have received con
cerning bim.'' Tbis last generous deed of General Wadsworth, and the truthful
interpretation he put upon your temporary misfortune of beirig evil spoken of
by certain fellow prisoners flashed upon my mind with peculiar interest, at the
moment I met his corps., as it was borne forward from Fredericksburg to Wash
ington. Had he survived, your defence against slander would have been fully
sustained by him.
Finally, Colonel, I bei; leave to say to you that I believe that no man that
knows you as well as Ido, can ever doubt your patriotism and your support
of the present Administration. Truly, yours, E, HARRIS, M. D.

FROM Col. H. F. CLARKE,
' As.'i'l Conimissari
New-York, February 8, 1865,

Office of As.-i't Commissary Gen'l of Subsistence, \

J, M. S.wnEKSON,
Late Lt. Col. & Chief (J. .-¦¦', first Army Corps —
Sir : It gives me great pleasure to be able to state that, while you were Chief
Commissary of the First Army Corps and serving with the Army of tbe Poto
mac, from September, 1S(J2, to the time of your capture by the enemy in, I think,
July, 18C3, you discharged your duties faithfully, to the satisfaction of myself
(then Chief Commissary, .Army of the Potomac) and, I believe, to the satisfac
tion of your Corps Commander, and all others concerned.
My recollection is, that Capt. Charles McClure, who succeeded you as Chief
G. S, First Army Corps reported that he found every thing connected with the
Subsistence Department of that Corps in excellent condition.
Very respectfully, &c.,
H. F. CLARKE,
C0I.A.D.C.&A.O.S.

FROM Col. L, P, DI CBSKOLA,
[ith N. y. Cavalry.-]
In regard to the plan of escape : it was originated since long time. The de
tails of the plan were intrusted to me ; but, for want of unanimity of purpose
it failed. Other plans, subsequently, made it rather a blessing (in my opinion)
that it was not carried out, as it would have been wholesale murder.
Being simply a case of justice to you, and the pure truth, I very willingly
make this statement.

FRO.M Col, HEBER LE FAVOUR,
[22d Michigan Infantry.]
Being the officer highest in rank among the large number of officers brought
from the Chickamauga field, I was assigned to the command of the roora in
which they were all placed ; and, by virtue of my position, I was necessarily
and immediately brought into contact with Lt.Col, James M. Sanderson, who,
at the time, was acting by common consent as dii-eotor of the kitchen arrange
ments, I acted in my position until early in December, 1863 ; and, to that time,
was daily and hourly brought into contact with him ; and I can freely say, that
the intercourse between us was such as should be between officers and gentle
men ; and that the general tenor of his conduct was perfectly gentlemanly,
just, and courteous ; and, to the last time I saw him, (in March, 1864,) he so con
tinued, Du:ing the month of November, I think it was that many of the officers dis
cussed different plans of escape ; and one was almost decided upon— which was
eitber, to disarm the guard, by a general and sudden rush, or to relieve them by
stratagem by night, which being done, the enlisted men in buildings in the im-
ihediate vicinity and ou Belle Island were to be released, and tbe whole party
to make their way to our line?, A part of the plan was to obtain the co-opera
tion of our Government. Wbether tbe plan was disclosed by some of tbe offi
cers, or the Rebel authorities obtained a knowledge of it by means of their spies
or otherwise, I cannot say ; but tbe details of such a plan was published in the
Richmond papers, and an extra number of infantry and artillery were, for but
a day or two, to be seen in the vicinity of the Prison, Soon, things went on as
usual : the guards became less vigilant, and, during the month of December, the
plan could have been carried into effi'ct as easily as at any previous lime. It is
my opinion that it misoariied more from the want of concert among the officers
than from any other cause, I know that many of tbe highest in rank opposed
the scheme as wild and impracticable, in consequence of the difficnlty in secur
ing tbe CO operation of the Government at the proper lime, the uncertainty of
providing arms and ammunition for the men. the impossibility of handling them
¦as a unit for the one purpose, and the knowledge that there was a large number
•of tronps stationed near Richmond.
There was, I am sorry to state, in the large number of officers in confinement,
¦a' great many -who, by their actions, should not be classed as an " officer and a

V7
gentleman.'' Many of this class were at enmity with Col. Sanherson, for the-
reason that he would not submit to iheir blackguardism ; a " hue and cry" was
consequently raised against him, and, on the 13th of January, 18C4, a. procession
was formed and marched to the music of tin horns, etc. After proceeding
throughthe Prison, they halted in one of the rooms, and speeches were made
against Col, Sanderson, during his absence from the Prison, and whilst he was
distributing clothing to the enlisted men on Belle Isle. The meeting dissolved
without any definite action ; indeed, it was generally acknowledged to have-
been a '- fizzle," and no further steps were taken in the matter. Placards were
carried in tbe procession, which were of a burlesque character such as " Bread
or Blood,-' etc. The -whole arrangement was nothing more nor le-s than a farce-
I was not a prisoner at the time of the reinforcement of Gen. Bragg by Long-
street, but I w-as told several times thereafter that he offered a reward of five-
hundred dollars to any one that would escape and inform our Government of
the fact. I am knowing to the fact that he furnished officers, that made their es
cape through the tunnel on the night of Februaiy 9, with money ; and, in con
versation with him previous to the completion of it, he stated to me that any one
that would make the attempt to escape should have of such as he had as would.
be of use to them.
On the 7ih March, 1864. I was exchanged with forty-seven other officers, and
amongst them was Col. .Sanderson, and we were often together going to and on
board the boat, at Annapolis and at Washington. He brougbt nothing away
with him in the shape of boxes, trunks, or large packages, having only a satchel
or haversack, and I should have considered it very strange and very unphilau-
thropic had he or any one else brought away a large quantity of clothing, books,.
etc., that would have been conducive to the health of his fellow prisoners.

FROM CoL, THOM.-i.S E. ROSE.
[Commanding 77th Fenn'a Volunteers.]
Was captured by the enemy at the battle of Chickamauga on the night of the
18th Sept, 1863. and was taken to Libby Prison, Va,
While en route, I escaped at Weldon, N, C but was recaptured, I arrived at
Richmond some time in October.
I was confined in Libby Prison until the Sth of February, 1864, when I es
caped from the prison, and was recaptured on the 13th near Williamsburg, Va.
I was then taken back to Libby Prison, and remained there until the 1st of May,
1864, when I was exchanged.
In Libby Prison I knew Lt, Col, James M. Sanderson, He was gentlemanly
and polite in his manners, and possessed the style of a well-bred man,
I never knew him to be brutal or undignified, neither vulgar nor profane,
nor guilty of any of the prevailing vices exhibited in the prison,
I never heard that Col, Streight had concocted a plan for overpowering the
guard, and of capturing -or burning the city.
I do not think that Col, Streight had stability of mind to concoct any such

VII
plan, rior do" I believe ho had the courage to execute any plan that would hav'e-'
foi- its object the overpowering of the guard. '•
I was present when he bribed the guard to let him out at the dining-room, '
window. I constructed with a rope I kept in my possession, tho means by
which Capt. Read and he reached the pavement. After I bad fixed the rope
they hesitated to go, I was angry, for I feared the guard would seize my rope, '
which was of great use to me in my tunneling operations, Capt, Read went '
out first, and was talking to the guard on tbe pavement for a considerable tirafe
before Col, Streight could summon courage to go, I charged him with coward
ice. He then scrambled out, and he and Capt Read were quickly conducted to'
the cell,
I do not call that an attempt to escape ; he made no attempt to escape.
Col, Streight at this time knew nothing of the tunnel, although I had been
working at it for more than a month. He had nothing to do with originating,
planning, or executing the tunnel by which the officers escaped on the Sth of
Feb., 1864. If he had, he could have been out of the prison long before I'
came there, as he had a thousand chances when I had one,
I was the originator of that scheme, and the leader of it throughout I was
the first man to pass through the tunnel, and was recaptured about sixty miles
from Richmond,
There were fourteen men besides myself engaged in perfecting it.
Major McDanald borrowed money from Lt, Col. Sanderson, by which he and
Col, Streight effected their escape from Richmond,
These officers wonld not have entrusted Lt, Col. Sanderson with the secret if
they suspected him of treachery.

FROM CoL. CHARLES W. TILDEN,
[Commanding Idth Maine.]
I hereby state, on honor, that my name is Charles W. Tilden, my rank Colonel
commanding 16th Eegt. Maine Vols. I was captured at the battle of Gettys
burg, on the 1st of July, 1863, carried to Richmond, and conflned in Libby Pris
on, I was in command of the Department known as the " E.istern."
Lt Col, J, M, S.iNDERSON, Chief Commissary of the 1st Corps, -n'ho arrived at
Libby Prison on the 20th July, was assigned by tbe Rebel authorities to my
dep't. Until the 1st January, 1864, he was in my mess ; the other members be
ing Major Russell and Capt. Atwood, Col. Sandernon had frequent difficulties
with Capt Atwood, and finally left the mess on his account
Shortly after his arrival, he was requested by a large nuraber of the officers
to assume command of the kitchen dep't, and teach the officers how to prepare'
their rations. This position he retained nntil Oct. 27, when he resigned, in con
sequence, I think, of a difficulty with one Lient, Hall, brought about by a com
plaint made against Hall by Capt Atwood, Owing to Col, Sandehson's efforts,
this dep't was conducted with so much systera and regularity, that a number of
officers in the Western Dep't, under the charge of Col, Streight, made a strong

vm
¦effort to obtain his services in regulating matters in their kitchen, but owing to
fdetermined opposition on the part of Col. Streight and others of his dep't, no
invitation was extended. Shortly after, I was informed, that in a political discus
•«ion. Col, Streight grossly insulted Col, Sanderson, after which no further iuter-
*ourse took place between them.
During the month of December, it was intimated that the officers were to be
removed from Libby Prison to Salisbury, N, C, and Col, S. suggested to me
tliat the prisoners should organize themselves into a regiment, selecting ilieir
'Captains from the higher rank, each of whom should recruit his own company,
*nd drill them occasionally so as to habituate them to their captains and com
manders, in case an opportunity appeared for an organized escape. Subse
quently the whole matter was referred to Col, di'Cesnola, wilh powertoelaborate
the details, each officer m iking such suggestions as he might deem proper. None
but field officers were initiated into the secret. Col. Streight was not interested
at all at the first, but was subsequently informed of the plan. Whilst this was
¦going on, certain cha-ges were made by Col, Streight against tbe Rebel Com
missary, which were presented to me for my approval, in whioh I could not
fully concur, and which, after investigation, Col, Sanderson and myself found
ourselves compelled to contradict to a certain extent : out of this grew a very
ibitter feud, resulting in a meeting of the friends of Col, Streight, for tbe pur
pose of passing resolutions, condemnatory of the course taken by us. At this
meeting, I was informed, Col, Streight made a speech particularly abusive of
Col, Sanderson. After the meeting Col. S.indeuson endeavored to obtain a crpy
of the proceedings, but without success, I was not present at the meeting, but
-was informed that it was presided over and organized by officers principally
fi-nm Col, Streight's de|i't, and that the speakers were from tbe same depart
ment After tbis meeting, Col, Streight's anger against Col, S.vnderson kiu-w no
bounds, and he did not hesitate to charge Col. Sanderson with whatever of mys
terious or di3agre.iab!e might occur.
About the middle of October, Col, Sanderson was taken ."^ick and carried to
the ho.-ipital where he remained but two days. Three or four days afier his ic-
lurn ¦ive discovered that two pieces of aitillery had been placed to command
tbe entrance to the prison, and tbe guard in charge were doubled : this, I Ihink,
continued for two days, when the guns w-ere removed and the guard relieved.
This affair caused great excitement throughout tbe pr'son, particularly with Col,
Sli-eij;bt, and many of the ifficers in his department, and it was generally re
ported and believed, even by sinie of Col. Saxokrson's intimate friei.ds, tbat be,
Sanderson, had divn'ged the plot to one of our pri.-onei-s, w-bo w-as acling as
nurse in the hospitals, (n une I do not remember,) and who roported the fact
to the prison officials. 1 wjs led mjself to Ihink tbis m'giit be the case, until
convinced to tbe contrary. Subsequent to this another meeting was called, at
which Col. S.vNDEitsON was publicly accused of betraying Ihe plot to escape by
many of Col. Streight's friends. I w,as not present at this meeting, and am un
able to give tbe details of same. I will, however, stale, that the plot above re
ferred to was concocted by Col. Streight, which was not supported by the major
ity of the officers present. I think there was a blight ch.uige iu Ihe con
duct of Col. Cesnola towards Col. S.vnderson after Ihis occurrence, yet it did
Hot cause any change in tbe contemplated plan of escape, or induce thoso

IX
having it in charge to relax their efforts to carry it out. My impression is that
Col, S.VNDBBSO.s w.13 not cognizant of the plan concocted by Col, Streight for
breaking out and capturing the city — at any rate, he was not fully familiar with
details of said plan until after he was accused of betraying the plot,
.\.b )ut the time of Col. Sanderson's illness. Brig, Gen, Neal Dow returned
from Mobile, and it was suggesteil by some ono of our mess (hat he be invited
to join it ; this did not meet with favor, Col, S, being particularly opposed to it
Shortly after his return, a large invoice of clothing and supplies were for-
war.led by Fiag-of-Truce lo his address. After some delay ho was permitted to
visit Belle Isle, accompanied by Capt, Conice, 94th N. Y, Vols., and one or two
other officers, (whose names I do not remember,) to distribute it, but in two or
three days w.is relieved, and Col. di'Cesnola, Lieut Col. Boyd, and Lieut. Col,
Van Schrader assigned in his place ; with this committee Col. Sanderson had no
connection whatever.
After five or six weeks, however. Col. di'Cesnola, having interfered with
some internal regulations of tho i.-land, having reference to the volunteering of
our men as shoemakers for the Confederate army, was relieved, and Col, S.vn-
nERSOM was substituted and continued to perform Ihe duties appertaining there
to umil early in February, when all egress, in consequence of the escape of
sorae officers, was discontinued.
Whon Col, SvNOERso!^ first joined the Committee, be took asa companion,
(having offered the position to me, which I declined,) Lieut, Col. Cavada; tben
Major Russel, Jr,, and tben Capt Atwood, each of whom accompanied him five
or six times. lie then took Capt, Wentworth once, and tbereaflev he selected
a different offi.Jicr each d ly, giving tbe preference to those having relations or
fi-ien.ls on the inland, wiihout regard to bis personal likes or dislikes. He also
carrie.l b.ickwaid aud forward larire number of letteis and sums of money, I
never accompanied him while serving on ihis Committee. In tbe latter part of
Deoembei-,Col, Sanderson had a difficulty with Lieut. Moriey, w-ho was connected
with CjI, di'Cjsnola's mess, owing to some .alleged encroachment on Morley's
part on ihe store belonging to the united messes. Out of tbis a coldness sprung
up between Col, Ce.snola and Saxderson, w ho never spoke to each other during
the bal.ince of my stay in prison,
Ih iTe frequently borrowed money of him, which Ihave since repaid— he re
fusing all interest or gain, I have known him to lend it to otbers, and oflen
seeking out tbe needy and distressed ; aud, iu or two instances, absolutely forc
ing it npon men with whom he had liad difficulties in a greater or less degree.
He was easily moved to anger ; but, upon the le.ist appearance of a desire to
apologise, q'lickly forgave— one or two instances of this character cime under
my per<on.il observation.
He W.IS not a profane or bru'al man, aud was not in the habit of using oaths,
curses, and bitter invectives. His general conduct to his brother officers was
gentlemanly and obliging ; and I never knew him to exict courtesies which be
was not willing to return.
His po.sition as director of the kitchen necessarily embroiled him in many
difficulties not of his own s.-ekini, and he never received auy compensating
benefit for the trouble and annoyance he endured fulfilling tbis position.
Col, Sanderson had not, at any time, charge of the Sanitary stores more than ¦

aoy other mem'ber of the Committee, and did not'have any thing to do with the
issuing of them. They came'tnore d'rrectly under the chai'ge of Col. Van Schra
der. The officers generally'obtaineda share of them — I; 'myself, being a recipi
ent, I wasinformed by several officei-s that Col; Sanderson Offered a reward to
any officer who would convey the news of Longstreet- reinforcing Bragg to our
Government I do not remember the sum nathed. I am cognizant that he lent
money to officers to enable theih to escape through the tunnel (one of my 'own
party) andlreceived material from him for this purpose.
He wasnot generally shunned or distrusted by a rtiajoVityof the officers,' He
never expressed any desire to me 'to know or have any association with Gen,
Neal Dow, I have no recollection of his" being actiused, in -jdi/pfesence, of be
traying the plot to escape ; yetl am knowing to his being personally insulted
on this account. No confidence was placed in the story by any gentleman ac^i
quainted with CoI.-Sanderson-s character; and I never heard any substantial
evidence at all pointing to Col. Sanderson.

FROM Lt. Col. B. B. McDANALD.
[10 Is* Ohio Vols.]
I know James M. S.vnderson, Lt. Col. and Chief Comm'ssary of First A, C. He
was a prisoner in Libby when I was put in. I escaped, leaving him there. I
did not, however, become personally acquainted with Col. Sanderson until near
the time of my escape from prison. A very few days before I left Libby, and
at a time when all of the preliminary arrangements were about completed (with
the exception of a sufficient amount of " greenbacks" — not '- graybacks," for we
had plenty of them) : our party of four, viz., Col. Streight, 51st Ind. 'Vols, ;
Capt. Seaver, same Regiment ; Lt Stirling, 20th Ind, ; and myself, set to work
to raise the required amount. Having heard it spoken by officers in the Prison
that Col. S.ANDEKSON had money, and that he had offered to furnish officers with
money to enable them to effect their escape, I went to him and asked him to
loan me some ; he remarked that he hadn't much about him then, but, if it was
a matter of importance to me to have it, he would spare me twenty dollars of
what be had — with the understanding that, if I remained in prison, I should re
turn it to himin a short time, I promised him that I would do so. He, then,
gave me the money.
At this same interview, he also said to me, that if my intentions were to at
terapt an escape, that he would tell me something that might be a benefit to me.
He thereupon took me to a certain window, and pointed out to me a house in
whicb, he said, lived an Union lady that would give me assistance if I could
get to her, I did not at that time reveal the fact to him, but at this same time
my party had been corresponding wilh the same lady, and had succeeded
through her assistance in securing a plan to stop for some days in the city;
should we succeed in making our escape. We made our escape, was secreted
for one week in the house in Richmond that this Union lady had secured for us,
and we arrived at Washington on the 28th February, 1864,

XI
I ara not positive that Col, SIreight knew that I borrowed money from Col.
Sanderson, but I do know that all onr money was used in common for the bene
fit of all.

FROM Lt. Cor. JEREMfAlI )V1LI,.IAMS,
[25(/i Regi. Oh'to Vui. Iifij.] ' '
During my imprisonment I knew Lt, Col, S.vnderson. In his raattnters he'was
gentlemanly, much above an average ofthe officers. His associates in. the pris
on were among the most accomplished gentlem(iri' there. Ho was not in 'th'te
habit of using vulgar and abusive language towards his fellow prisoners, as, 1
Tegret to say, some others were.
His slyle of living was more comfortable and genteel than that of most of the-
others, and this contributed something towards producing ill-feeling against
him on the part of the envious.
There was for a time a coolness between Lt. Col Samieeson- and mysellT,.
growing out of a controversy in regard to a matter about which ve ditt'ered in
opinion. Afterwards I bad much need of a favor, and having confidence in his
magnamity, I requested it of him, and he at once kindly and gracefully granted
it We afterwards became friends, and be several times materially assisted me,.
I know of other instances of his granting favors to officers, who like myself,
had been prejudiced against him by Ihe influence of a little faction, whicb, for
some reason, unknown to me, had arrayed ilself against him.
For a considerable time he was culinary director, by appointraent of the
Chief Officer (selected by ourselves) of our rooms. He performed the duties of
this position better, as I believe, than any other officer in the prison conld have
done it, systematizing and superintending the preparation of food, and instruct
ing the uninformed how best to cook it. His efforts to give equal opportunities
to the different messes brought down upon him abuse and rough language from
a few, who determined to break through our regulations whenever it suited
them. Chief among these was a very low-bred captain named .Vtwood, I think
Atwood was not respected by any officer in the prison.
The privations of such prison life naturally draw out the less amiable traits
of men's characters, and often caused them to forget, or disregard the usual
amenities between gentlemen. This rendered Col, Sanderson's duties exceed
ingly difficult and unpleasant, and it was to be expected that he would make
enemies, notwithstanding his diligence and unrewarded efforts to contribute to
the comfort of his fellow prisoners. Thoughtless or malicious persons availed
themselves of the absence of any means of enforcing discipline, and used very
provoking language toward him. In my judgment, he exercised towards them
a very great degree of forbearance.
Col, Sanderson was exceedingly generous with his money and provisions.
He more than once offered, and in several instances gave, money to officers to
¦enable them to escape, and at one time offered a large reward to any one who

iXII
would escape to our lines, and notify our authorities of the rc-inforcement of
Bragg's army by Longstreet,
When he left the prison, he divided his provisions and clothing among his
fellow prisoners, reserving only what was actually necessary to take him lo our
lines, in this respect exhibiting a gratifying contrast wilh tbe conduct of Gen,
Neal Dow. who accumulated a large amount of clothing, blankets, etc, and
selOshly took thera away with him, ¦whilst officers in the prison were suffering
for them, and doubtless are lo this day, I may as well add here that Gen, Dow
was so selfish, domineering, and " oldwomanisb,'' as to be almost universally
disliked. To sum up, Col, Sanderson made himself more useful, and contributed more
to the comfort of the prisoners both at Libby and Belle Isle than any other
half-dozen officers there. He conducted himself like a gentleman, which he un
doubtedly is. He was no more intimate with tne Rebel aulhoiities than was
necessary for the proper transaction of the business of the prisoners. He loaned
money to a number of his fellow-prisoners, charging them nothing for the use
of it

FROM Lt, Col. F. F. CAVADA,
[Laie Lt. Col. llith Penn. Vols. & A. A. G., M Div., Second Corps.]
,_I know Lt, Col, James M, Sani'Erson. My fiist personal acquaintance with
liim was in tbe month of September. 1864. He spoke to me on the subject of
organizing in Ihe form of a regiment, for the purpose of effecting an escape, in
<;ase we were removed from Richmond to Sali>biiry, N. C, or some point south
of Richmond. Col. Sanderson wa=, I think, ihe first person in tbe Prison whom
I beard speak of such an organization. Col. Sanderson was selected by tbe offi
cers as director of tbe kitchen, to leach them how to coi.k their rations. He
devoted a cei tain number of bonis to this duly, on each day. As far as my
knowledge extends, be performed tbis duty witb zeal ;-.nd fidelity. The posi-
t on was a disagreeable one, and gave lise to constant quarrels and contentions
which were calculated to render Col, Sanderson unpopular with many of his
fellow-prisoners.

FROM CoL, B, F. FISHER,
[Qiiefofthe Signal Corps, U. S. A.]
I have known Lt Col. James M. Sanderson since about the 1st of August,
1-863. Onr relations at nn time could be lermed very intimate, but were of
that friendly character existing between officers thus thrown together, without
any resources for pastime save their own minds.

XIII
From September 18 to October 19, Col. Sanderson, offended at Ihe action I
took at a meeting hold by the officers upon tbe I8tb of September, originated a
coolness whioh existed until tbe latter date ; when be frankly acknowled.red
that he was in error .as to my actions, which opened tbe way a.rt,i,no our
former relations; but never since has tbat frank feeling and mann°er existed
wbich had place prior.
I was an inmate of tbe hospital at the time Col. S.vnderson was there. I be
lieve he was mostly confined lo his bed. but conversed Irecly at times with va
rious officers in the hospital at the same lime.
He came to the hospital on the 18ih of October, and remained four or five
days— tbe exact number I know not, but he returned to his quarters at the
Prison before the 25th ; 1 think he left upon ihe 23d,
I never saw bim at any time iu consultaiion with any Rebel officer, beside tho
Surgeon in charge.
I have no recollection of seeing any Rebel officers during the time of his stay
excepting the Surgeon, Steward, and officer ofthe guard.
The officer of tbe guard was the only Confederate official attached to tbe hos
pital, in addition to Ibe Surgeon and the Inspector, Mr. HaUett.
Tbeho-pital attend.mls wei-e Federal soldiers or citizens ofthe North cap
tured, among them w.is a man named Vermillion. He was, apparently, a kind-
hearted man, courteous and gentlemanly; but, I am soiry to say, we were
forced to suspect his loyalty and honor. He bad more privileges than otber
prisoners, I w-as in Ihe hospital wben Major Hoiistain escaped in the Surgeon's clothes
and, so far as I know, those cognizant of tbe circumstances believed Ihat Ver
million gave information to oue of tbe hospital officials that Major Houstain had
escaped. It wonld have been possible for Col. Svnuerson to have disclosed anything
to the Rebel authorities unknown to the other officers, either at the time he en
tered the hospital or at the time he left it ; but I do not think be could bave
done so during his sta in the room, and I have no recollection of him leaving
the room from tbe time he entered the hos|iital until he left it,
I never, for a moment, believed liim capable of such treachery.
I knew of a difficulty tbat occurred between Col. Sti eight and Col. Sanderson
upon the evening of tbe Sth of August, wben public sentiment in the Prison was
perhaps universal against Col. Streight, on account of Ihe language he used to
wards Lt. Col. Sandeiison in an argument between Ihem,
I cannot say that Col. Streijiht was considered a most persistent and bitter
enemy of Col, Sanderson afler Ihat difficulty, I do not think either had a high
appreciation of tbe otber, bnt that tbe feeling of dislike was niutiuil.
I do not Ihink he opposed an invitation being extended to Col, S. to take
charge of and systeraaiize the cooking department of the West rooms on ac
count of any personal feeling between him and Col. S.; but because he thought,
aa many others of us did, that the improvement proposed would be a greater
disadvantage than advantage.
He did not take active measures in getting up a meeting against Col. Sasdeb-
BON and Col, Tilden, We advised witb him, but th« meeting was called inde-

XIV
ipendent of him ; nor was he present until it was organized, so far as my knowl
edge goes. He made a speech which was very severe and also personal in ita
character, but it contained some wholesome truths rather roughly expressed.
To the extnet in which it was personal it can be said it was abusive aud ill-
timed. He and his adherents did not vote down resolutions ol a moderate character
offered by the majority of the Cornaiittee, and substitute those of a most abu
sive and unmilitary character. Thereportof the Committee was adopted unan
imously, but resolutions more personal in their character were afterwards
offered by one of the meeting, and likewise adopted. These latter, inasmuch
as they were personal and tended to usurp the place of a decree of a military
Court, were perhaps unmilitary.
I do not think Col. .Streight had any fear that his conduct would be censured
by a military Court, though he might have thought it was not consistent with
the Army Regulations. There was a rumor that Lt. Col. S.vnderson intended
to prefer charges against Col. Streight.
Lieut. Randolph who joined rae at Williamsburg after our escape, informed
me that he had obtained money to enable him to escape through the tunnel,
from Col. SiNiiKRSON ; and I beard of other instances, but do not now recollect
from whom. I have a f;iint recollection that Major Henry told me shortly
before escaping that he had obtained money from Saxderso.v. but for what pur
pose I know not
Col. Sanderson always had a good supply of provisions on hand, sent by his
friends trom the North, and perhaps some of a richer Cjuality than olher tables
possessed. The main feature of his living was his food was prepared with more
care, andhis table displayed more cleanliness and taste than those of others, I
suppose it was regarded by the class referred to — tbe worst class— with a wish
to help devour what was upon the table. I know it to have caused remark,
but the remarks were thos.i of envy, not of just censure.
I never lie.ird the loyalty of his associates questioned, and deem them entirely
so. They were gentlemen.
I knew of a plan to rescue ourselves which was canvassed by the officers, of
whom Gol, Su-eight was one, which was simply an attempt to overpower the
^uard, capture the arsen.d, free the other prisoners, and then fvj:\\t our way
down the Peninsula. I suppose, as clear heads as there were in the prison
thought at Ihe time, tbat if a proper organization and entire unity of action
could be secured, it would justify Ihe attempt. No doubt there were some pru
dent men who found fault with it — those who did not fancy tbe gauntlet Ihat
would have to be run if the attempt was made. It was never attempted to be
carried into execution, bec.uise there were too many '• generals " among us,
I know of Col. Sanderson's efforts during the month of September to get up
an organization for the purpose of escaping in case of removal from Richmond
to Salisbury. 1 think 1 learned it from Col, S. himself, but I do not know who
originated it

XV
FROM Lt, Col, A. F, RODGERS.
[80th lUinois Vols.]
I was captured near Rome, Ga,, on the 3d of May, 1863, and was exchanged
at Charleston, S, C, on tho 3d of August, 1864— being oue of the flfty officers
placed there under fire, I had command of the 80th Regiment, Illinois Vols.
on the raid into Georgia, commanded by Col, Streight
I formed acquaintance with Col. James M. Sanderson-, in Libby Prison, Rich
mond, 'Va, His reputation as au officer and a gentleman was as good as any in
the Prison : he was not in the habit of using profane or abusive language. To
wards his comrades he acted the perfect gentleman : his associates were of the
better class of officers. I was personally cognizant of his services as director
in the East room. The officers of the West rooms had it in contemplation
to invite him to exercise supervision of the cooking and messing arrangements
ia their room, which was so strongly opposed by Col. Streight that it was aban
doned, I was present at the difficulty between Cols. Streight and Sanderson.
Col. Streight abused Col. Sanderson most shamefully. Every officer that heard
it censured Col, Streight for his ungentlemanly and abusive language.
After this diflBculty, Col. Streight was a persistent enemy of Col. Sanderson
and was instrumental in getting up a meeting in the East rooms, for the purpose
of denouncing Cols, Tilden and Sanderson, It was generally understood that
Col, Sanderson would bring charges against him for his conduct and remarks
on that occasion.
I heve known him to give money to needy brother officers, and assist them
very materially otherwise, by helping them to medicine, clothing, etc,
I never knew him to refuse a favor to any one, if in his power to grant it
I am acquainted with Neal Dow, late Brig, Gen. of Volunteers, He was not
in my opinion more kind and patriotic than Col, Sanderson, I do not regard
him as a better officer or kinder-hearted man, I was knowing to the fact that
General Dow had a, number of blankets, and when brother officers came in
without any, he would not offer them one, and they would have to lay on the
bare floor, or sit up all night
When Gen. Dow was exchanged he carried blankets and provisions away with
him.

FROM Lt, Col, JOHN HENRY,
[5th Ohio Cav'y.]
Was taken prisoner in a fight with Gen, Chalmers at Hernando, Miss,, and
was sent to Libby Prison, Richmond, arriving there July 6, 1863. I remained
until the night of February 9, 1864, when in company with one hundred and
eight other pri5oners,I made my escape through tbe tunnel, was re-captured two
days after, and brought back, where I remained until the 30th April, when I
was released and exchanged,
Lt Col, Sanderson's reputation as an officer was, that he was very thorough
and rigid in exacting discipline, somewhat of a martinet ; exact and orderly

XVI
himself, he required those under his control to do their duty ; he was very sys
tematic and precise in wbat he undertook, and, I Ihink, aimed at the good of his
fellow prisoners. His character as a gentleman was high, and by his deport
ment as such, commanded respect. His associates were among the most moral
and high-toned in Libliy ; anything vulgar shocked and horrified him.
His arrangements for conducting tbe cooking department, although rigid, were
well calculate 1 1" benefit all concerned ; but were not appreciated by Ihi se who
were too filthy and indi.-posed to do ought for themselves. There existed in
consequence a prejudice that grew, and was nourished by those w-ho disliked
restraint until it assumed a hatred, and any saying wastwisted into such a shape
as was best calculated to stir up dislike in the minds of lho«e who were the re
cipients of his favors, and tui-n them against him. Consequently, viewed through
spectacles, colored by such prejinlices. his enemies could not place lo hs cre
dit much that was lnyal, noble, and benevolent in his conduct and aclioiis. To
myself he communicated freely plans of escape, aud be often talked of the feasi
bility of such plans. Ue -xas indeed Vie first to hint towards organization for the
purpose of releasing ourselves.
He always seemed willing to suljmit to the action of onr Government, iu the
matter of our confinement, when many of the so-called and loudmouthed "Ad-
mini-trationists -- were denouncing it.
I accompanied him once to Belle Island, and was convinced, that, allhongh
his discipline wasri.'id, it aimed at the good of thnse for whom be assiduously
labored. I do not believe, for I made enquiry of the men themselves, Ihat be
treated them cruelly. He was too kind, and too much in sympathy with them
to be guiity of such meanne=s.
Ilis intimacy witii Rebel officers went no further than was calculated, in his
judgment, to further Ihe welfare of prisoners; he may have used tbe "Silken
Glove," but it covered an '¦ Iron Hand," when duty required him to stand up
for the rights of our poor priv.ites. As far as I could observe, he was i^olito
to the Rebels in charge of the prison, but distant and dignified.
When we made onr escape, he generously loaned many of Ihe officers money,
and bade them " God-speeil." I was somewhat picjudieed against him at first,
but looking at the matier fairly, I musts.iy tbat no one went lo hiin in a manly,
open manner, who did not find hiin wiliing lo explain or make the proper
amends; and on very many occasions be exerted himself to obtain favors for
those who bad vilified him. I do not think be would bave injured Col, Streight
in any way while a prisoner, and no man rejoiced more at his escape, or wished
him good luck with a freer heart.
Col. Sireight was a good, loyal man, but Col, S.vnderson, although not so
popular, was as loyal. I, fir one, never for a moment doubted him, and to-day
have no cause to change my opinion.
Tome belaid open his heart in his grief for- affiictions at home, and in onr
hours of tender conversation I felt bis heart was right, whatever others might
think. I will say, in conclusion, on my honor, that I believe the charges made were
without the slightest foundation, and had their origin more in a prejudice grow
ing outof the restraints bis discipline imposed upon a restless and uncultivated

XVII

set of men, unused to being cnvbecl in tbeir desires, nnd too rude and ignorant
to appreciate the efforts of any one laboring for their godd, when' those efforts
•icpnflict'ed With their loose and selfish desires.

FROM MA.IOR W,M. RUSSELL, Jun.
[I. A. a. Cavalry M. M. Div.]
I hereby .state, on honor, that my name is William Russell, Jun. ; my rank,
Major,; my position, .Vss't Adj. Gen. Cavalry, Middle Military Division. I was
captured on tbe 20.th of July, 1863, in company with Lt Col. James M. Sander
son, Chief C. S., of the First Corps (of wbich I was A. A. A. G.,) and one Order
ly. We were surprised by a band of guerillas, (twelve in number.) whilst re
connoitering for a ford to cross the column over a deep and rapid stream in the
vicinity of Middleburg, Va. We w'ere carried to Richmond, stopping one night
at Culpepper, where Col, Saxdekson expressed bimself a warm advocate for
the abolition of Slavery, We were confined in Libby Prison, in the Eastern
¦department, and continued intimate during our whole imprisonment — belong-
¦ing to the same mess until January l.st, wben Col. S.vnderson left it owing to
the alleged ungentlemanly conduct of Captain Atwood. Shortly after our
arrival, Col. Streight took occa-ion to fasten a quarrel on Col. Sander.son,
and insulted bim in a most gratuitous and ungentlemautly raanner. In this
¦affair every honorable man'sided with Col. Sanderson, and commended his con-
•duct. During the month of October, Col. S. was taken quite ill and carried to the
hospital, where he remained two or Ihree days. Ou liis return he suffered a
relapse, and was quite ill for some time. During this latter altack we were
suddenly surprised to find two guns placd to cover the entrances to the Prison,
and the guard doubled. Ou inquiry. We were informed that the citizens of
Richmond threatened to break open the Prison and set us free, as we were rais
ing the price of provisions. Subsequently, we learned that some one bad re
vealed a plan of escape wbich we were said to be concerting ; and, (inally, we
were inforraed by Col, Streight and bis friends tbat Col, Sanderson had be
trayed us to the Confederate authorities. As no attempt to escape was made
the guns were withdrawn and the extra guard retired, and matters pro :eeded
a'a usual. This charge against Col. Svndkrson was not raade openly or in his
presence, that I ever heard ; but was whispered about without attaining, as far
as I know, the slightest credence amon^ his friends, or the belter class of officers
surrounding bim.
Afewdays later, a large supply of subsi>tencp and clothing, addressed to
fieh, Neal Dow (sent by our Government) was receii-ed ; and (!,n. Neal Dow
was permiited to visit tbe Island for t'je purpose of distributing it. 11-' w.is ac
companied, I think, by one or two junior officers. He w.^iit b.il, n\ n or liiree
times, as he Was suddenly relieved by the Confederate authorities ; and Cols.
Cesnola, Boyd, and VonSchrader substituted. These gentlemen were constanly
employed iti trahsaisting this business'for five or six weeks, when Col. Cesnola

XVIII
brought down the anger of the authorities by sorae action ou his part, and he
also was relieved ; and Col, Sanderson, at his (Cesnola's) suggestion, assigned
to his place. Col. Sanderson, at first, selected Col. Cavada as a companion,
but tbis gentleman was obliged after four or five visits to abandon this position,
and I was invited to take his place, until I, also, was forced b>y sickness to re
linquish it, after having accompanied Col. S. for some days, » * « «
Col. Sanderson was quick-tempered, and spoke sometimes more sharply and
severely than was necessary ; but- he was ready to forget and forgive, and was
as easily approached by a foe as by a friend, especially when a favor was to be
conferred. Several officers, who had had serious difficulties with him, were re
lieved by him without the slightest hesitation on his part, I have known him
to lend money to officers, and he was known for his stock of medicines and lit
tle necessaries which he sent for to the North expressly for the needy and im
provident iMy successor as Col, Sanderson's companion, was Capt. Atwood,.
who was selected at the request of Col. Tilden ; although Col, S. did not partic
ularly affect him. This officer held the position for five or six days, when CoL
S. decided to take a different officer every day, so as to afford many who had re
lations among the soldiers an opportunity of visiting them. In his selection he
appeared to be guided by the claims of the applicants, giving the preference to-
those having the greatest claims. I have since heard that many of these men
went over expressly to obtain evidence of his cruelty, great reports of which
were circulated throughout the Prison, *««*»«
The day following the " McKee'' meeting. Col, .S, asked and obtained permis
sion to select Iwo officers daily for his companions ; and, during the continu
ance of his visits to the Island, he was always accompanied by that number.
Early in February, five officers made their escape frora the Prison, whereupon
all privileges extended to the Committee and others were cut off, and all visits
to Belle Island ceased. Col, Sanderson was sometimes, however, permitted ta
visit the officer in charge of tbe boxes ; and I knew he did everything in his
power to procure the boxes of any one who would ask his assistance. Just be
fore the general exodus through the tunnel, several parties asked and obtained
money from Col, S. to enable them to effect their escape ; whilst to others he
gave everything he could spare, calculated to aid them in getting through safely.
Finally, when about to be exchanged, Col, S, divided among his companions
and messraates everything he was possessed of in the shape of books, clothing,
bedding, and subsistence — araounting to over two hundred dollars, if not more,
carrying away with him the contents of a haversack and one blanket. After
his departure. Captain Atwood, who had been promised his release by Dick Tur
ner, was unexpectedly sent back ; and immediately charged it upon CoL San
derson, who, as I have since been informed, was not aware of his not being on
board the steamer until so apprised by Capt Fobes, sorae hours attei their de
parture. Col, S-VNDERsoN was uot given to profanity, bestiality, or abusive, language.
On the contrary, he was courteous and obliging to every one who approached
him in a gentlemanly manner.
I have seen him io a passion and have heard him apply epithets of a most
abusive character to an officer ; but only when, as I thought, richly deserved.

XIX
FROM Sdroeon A, W, WHITNEY,
[13(74 Mass. Vols.]
**?*••*..,
I have known Lt, Col, Sanderson for nearly three years ; we were imprisonecTL
in the same room nearly four months. He was courteous, gentleraanly, and sol-,
dierly in his deportment, and not in the habit of using profane, vulgar, or
abusive language. His manners, habits, sentiments corapared favorably witli.
any of the officers imprisoned with us, * * * * * »
I was present at a difficulty that occurred between Col, Streight and. Col.
Sanderson,- in my opinion, and I believe in that of all the officers there, pre
sent. Col, Streight was wholly to blame. I think it was generally reported and
believed that Lt Col, Sanderson intended bringing charges against Col. Streight
for violating the Army Regulations, and for a cowardly surrender of his com
mand to the enemy,
I reraeraber the guard about the prison being doubled, on account it was
said, of a discovery by the Rebel authorities of a plot among the prisoners to
break out and escape. I have heard both Col. Sanderson and Col. Sireight ac
cused of having divulged th'is plot to the enemy ; the former by talking about
the plans to his brother otficers, before one of the nurses in the hospital - the
latter, by sending a threatening message to Major Turner, the commandant of
the prison, saying, •• tell Turner he'll be damned glad to see me, and that be
fore long," But I do not believe that either of these gentlemen would intention
ally stoop so low as to betray the plans of their fellow prisoners. I believe Col.
Sant)erson to be a high-minded, honorable, and patriotic gentleman, and tbat
he would scorn such meanness. I was posted up in the plan of escape pro^
posed by Col, Cesnola and others, — to insure its success the active co-operation.
of the U, S, Government was requisite, Wben I left the prison. Col, Cesnola.
and Lt Clol. S. were on friendly terms.
I was released with tbe other surgeons on the 24th day of Nov., IS64. Col.
Sanderson worked early and late striving to systematize tbe Culinary Depart
ment, and teach his brother officers to cook their rations — his services were
valuable — ihe position one of delicacy and difficulty, calculated to make more-
enemies than friends among the lawless, self-willed, and insubordinate.
I heard Col. Sanderso.n offer a large reward to any officer who would escape,
and convey information to the U. S, Government concerning the movements of
Gen, Longstreet's coraraand.
Col, Sanderson borrowed over three hundred dollars, ($300,) in greenbacks,
of me, to lend to his fellow captives. *****.
Col, Streight was in the habit of " giving the lie '' to his brother officers when
ever he thought he could do so with irapunity.

STATEMENT oE Maj, FARNSWORTH,
**********
I knew Lt, Col. James Sanderson whilst a prisoner in Libby — was on terms
of general acquaintance, I call his manners courteous and gentlemanly, * * '
He did render valuable service to his fellow prisoners by his efforts iu organ-
Jz'ng the kitchen, and in teaching them how to prepare their rations. My own

x-s
impression was at the time that if Col, Sanderson had exclusive control, and
had been obeyed, the condition of our rations would have been much better.
But there were numljers among us who wanted to do as they pleased, and
owe allegiance to no one : th'is brought Col. Sanderson in collision with some
officers. .*.......
I saw Cdl. Sanderson when he left the prison, paroled. I think he took only
a,: cloak with him.
I left the prison with Gen. Neal Dow when he was paroled. He had two
trunk-, which he reqaested officers to assist him in carrying to the truce boat.
He asked me to assist him, but I told hira that I had left all my blankets and
-clothing, sent me from home, for tbe u*e of the remaining suffering prisonei-s,
and that I most -decline the honor of carrying any of his. « . * «

ST.^TEMEXT nF Maj. J H. HOOPER.
[]m Mass. Vuh.]
* * * Was. on the 2.5th day of July. 1863, captured by the Rebel guerilla Mosby,
tieax Warrenton, Va..a!nd was held in captivity, as prisoner of war, by the
Rebel authorities, at the Libby Prison, Richmond, Va.. from on or abont tho
ist day of August, 18fi:ii, until the 9tb day of February. 1S64. when I made mv
¦escape from said prison with other officers of the U. .S. A., by means of a tunnel,
secretly dug from one of the cellars of said prison.
During my impriioament I became acquainted with Lt. Col. James M. S.vn
derson of the Commissary Department of Ihe U. S. A., and considered him in
bis habit and deportment, gentlemanly, courteous, soldier-like, and in his speech
free fi-ora profane, vulgar or abusive language. • * » « *
In habits, manners, and opinion he compared, in my estimation, very favor-
.ably with the majorilj of the officers confined in Libby Prison,
Social intercour-e and companionship witb him, to a great extent, was souo-bt
by the better class of officers.
-At one time it w-as freely a-serted by many that Lt. Col. Sanderson had be
trayed to the Rebels a plan of escape, wbich had been for some lime maturing.
but.itis my impression tbat Lt Cil. S.vnderson cleared himself entirely from
said charge, even in the minds of those who openly avowed themselves his
enemii-.s. Never for a moment did I believe Lt. Col. S.'vNdersox guilty of such
a crime, nor did I stand alone in such belief.
Lt. Col. .--^ vNDEit.;oN ivas at one time director of the kitchen, of the part of
Libby Prison know-u as the Eist rooms. He was appointed to this position, I
believe, by h's fellow-officers. In the capacity of director his teachings were
of much value to bis inexperienced companions ; .and, in my opinion, the order,
system, m inner ol cooking, etc, which to a great extent he inaugurated, were
hi,-bly conducive to tbe preservation of health among tbe inmates"of tbe Prison.
The position was one well-calculated to make enemies among men whose sel-
£ah or greedy propensities were paramount to all others.
J knew Col. Sireight by sight only ; never having, to my remembrance, ex-

XXI
changed a word with him. His manners were not such as to create in me a dig;-
position to cultivate his acqniintauee, * * * * ;»>
I was present at a meeting gotten up by some officer or officers fu- the pur^
pose of denouncing CoL Sanderson. Tbe proceedings of this meeting and the
resolutions ofi'ered were of such a scandalous nature that even bis enein'es were
disgusted, and all just-ininded men present united in expressions of disappro
bation. It is my impression that no one attempted to substantiate these charges,
although, to my certain knowledge, Lt Col. Sanderson repeatedly challenged
his accuser to do so, I have been told that Lt Col. S. repeatedly loanedmoney
to officers needy and in distress ; and I know positively of bis having loaned
raoney to officers about attempting to escape through the tunnel; and not only-
loaning money, but freely giving provisions from his own stock ; and in one in
stance, in whieh I was personally interested, brandy, ext. of ginger, and other
valuable articles were given — the possession of which very much, increased the.
chances of success in the rather hazirdous business of baffling, vigilant Rebel's-
for twelve days, *******

FROM Dr, ALEXANDER McDONALD.
Am Agent ofthe U.S. Sinitary Commission: was taken prisoner July 5^
1863, near Mechanicsvile, Md., and conveyed to Richraond, Va. ; there confinecE
iu Libby Prison and Castle Thunder, till September 22, 1863. * * While iu Libby
Prison I knew and was in daily coramunication with LtCol. J.M.Sanderson. * *
During a part of tbe time of our confinement in Libby Prison, Col. Sanderson.-
acted as chief of the culinary department for the Middle and Eastern rooms ;,
and, in that capacity, rendered valuable service, by improving the mode of pre
paration of such rations as were furnished, thereby undoubtedly diminishing
the risks of sickness from the use of improperly prepared food. His positiom
in this department was a difficult and arduous one, well calculated to cause en
mity and ill-feeling on the part of thoughtless persons ; but, as far as f know,.
Col, Sanderson performed his duty in a just and impartial manner — giving gen
eral satisfaction, though exciting the ill-will of a few,
Wliile in the prison I believed Col. S.anderson to be a humane raan, and am.
cognizant of several of his acts whicb tended to show his kind disposition to aid
the suffering, and have never since had knowledge of any acts on his part whichi
should cause me to change such opinion.
Col, A. D. Streight was confined in the same prison, and I became somewhat.
acquainted with him, but did not consider him a gentlemanly person, and there-
'fore avoided his society,
A person named Vermillion was employed in the Prison-office, during a part?
of the time I was in the hospital of Libby. Prison, and I believe he af'erward.B-
became a nurse in the hospital. He had once been a Union soldier, but seerae4
-to hold some subordinate position as clerk or copyist in the office of tbe prison,
and at Belle Isle, Saw him several times iu the hospital, and had some conver
sation with, him, on two or three occasions. Did not deem -him an honest op

XXII

sincere man, and feared he was in league with the Rebel authorities, by whora
i believe he was perraitted to visit the hospital for the purpose of obtaining in
formation regarding the plans of prisoners there confined.

FROM Capt, E, A. FOBES.
[Chf. a S. 2d Div. Cav'y Corps.]
' * ' Was captured at Brandy Station, Va., June 9tb, 1863. and taken to Libby
Prison, Richmond, Virginia.
I know Lt. Col. Sanderson very intiraately. We occupied the same quarters
and messed together the last months of our imprisonment I saw him every
day previous to messing with him. His conduct was gentlemanly, honorable,
and that of an officer ; he was kind and liberal to suffering officers, and espe
cially to tbe sick. His language was habitually pure and temperate. His com
pany, as a rule, was sought for by officers of inferior and equal rank. * * • •
I was present when the misunderstanding occurred between Col. Streight and
Col, Sanderson, and consider Col. Streight greatly in the wrong, I deemed
¦Col, Streight's conduct far from thatof an officer and a gentleman, e.specially as
we were under the observation of the enemies of our country, « * * * •
I know that Lt Col. Sanderson did offer a sum of money to any officer who
•would attempt to escape, and convey certain information to the Federal
authorities- I also know that Lt, Col, Sanderson did furnish money, and our
¦iness subsistence, to such officers as applied previous to their escape through
:the tunnel. . , , * . .
Lt. Col. S.iNDERSON left prison the same day I did, only taking a small haver
sack and fifty dollars in money ; the latter he e.xpended for meals for officers on
board fiag-of-truce boat New-Y'ork, on her trip from City Point, Va., to Annap
olis, Md.

FROM Capt, E. A. MASS.
[88»i Tenn. Vols.]
' * * Was captured on the 1st day of July, 1863, at Gettysburg, Pa,, carried to
¦Stichraond, Va., and confined in Libby Prison.
I know Col, James M. Sanderson, Chief C. S., 1st Army Corps,
I was not intiraate with bim the early part of his imprisonment, I was very
¦<mfavorably disposed towards him at first, because I had heard so much said
against him in regard to his being too intimate with the prison officials. It was
%he custom to ascribe everything of a disagreeable nature to Col, Sanderson,
•¦aad one great cause of dislike to bim was caused by his being appointed Culi
nary Director, having charge of the kitchen, and having to decide a great num
ber of quarrels daily, and no matter how justly decided, I noticed that the party
decided against, almost invariably became Col. Sanderson's enemy.

XXIII
As far as I could see he always acted justly and gentlemanly while holding
the position, which was a most difficult ono to fill, ahd of great benefit to all of
us, I heard it stated that Col, Sanderson betrayed a plan to escape to the rebels.
No evidence was ever produced to my knowledge to substantiate this charge,
audit is my candid opinion that tbis and other charges were made against him
in prison, because he was the raost unpopular man there,
I never knew hira to be h.u-sh, repulsive, or ungentlemanly in his intercour.se
with the officers in the prison,
I cannot recollect of ever having heard hira use profane, vulgar, or abusive
language. His associates in prison I would judge to be among the most loyal there. I
visited Belle Island in company with him on one occasion, to help distribute
clothing, I saw nothing cruel, harsh, or insulting in his manner to our soldiers
there. He did not punish any one while I was there, although one of our ser
geants reported a lot of men to him for having done Something wrong ; what it
was I cannot now recollect.
I went to Belle Isle at my own request, because some of the men of my regi
ment were there and wrote to me to come and see them. I heard previously to
this that Col. Sanderson had been in the habit of using the men on the island
very roughly,
I asked them if it was true that Col, Sanderson had been in the habit of treat
ing the men badly, and they told me that they had not seen anything of it, ¦* *
I was present at the meeting gotten up by the enemies of Col. Sanderson, dur
ing his absence. Charges of tbe wor^t kind were made against him in a series
of resolutions, but proofs were demanded, and not one man could be found who
woitld axy that there was the least bit of truth in them, and they were indig
nantly voted down, and the effect was to open the eyes of tbe majority of the
officers, who thought as I did, that there was a party in the prison very unjustly
persecuting Col. Sanderson, and 1 must say up to this time I actually despised
the sight of him, not that I saw anything myself, but altogether through reports
I had heard against him, * *
I did not see Col, Sanderson carry away with him any large package or bun
dle. Nothing would justify an officer in taking away from the prison anything
that would conduce to the comfort of his fellow-prisons. ...

FROM Capt R, 0, IVES.
[\Oth Mass. Vols.] ,
. . . * ' * . • *
Col, Sanderson's experience as regards subsistence, cookery, etc., was of the
highest benefit to the whole Prison ; and I attribute to his watchfulness and caro
the fact that so few of our number died of the miserable provisions furnished
by the Rebels,
I also understand that it was upon charges prepared by Col, A. D, Streight and
a certain Brig. Gen, Neal Dow, backed by some statement ot' an enlisted man,

XXIV
that Mr. Sanderson has been dismissed, I have not the honor of the enlisted
man's acquaintance, but Col, Streight and Gen. Dow I know intimately. The
former is a notorious atheist, from Indiana — a man who, in my humble opinion,
would stick at nothing to injure a personal enemy ; who bated Col. Sanderson.;
and, in the presence of numerous officers, applied to him the most abusive epi
thets. A man rash, headstrong, ignorant— brave, no doubt, but a thorough vul
garian, who instinctively hated a gentleman.
Of Brig. Gen. Neal Dow I need only say, Ihat he had a difficulty with Col,.
Sanderson arising out of the fact that, from his imprudence in language, he was
removed frora distributing the V. S. stores sent to prisoners, and Col. Cesnola,
4th X. Y. Cav. put in his place. He also was subsequently removed, for the
reason tbat bis relations were supposed by Brig. Gen. Winder. C. S. A. to be too
intimate with one John Higgins. clerk in the office of said Winder. Mr. San
derson was Ihen appointed, and by bis tact and ability executed his difficult
task to the general satisfaction of ';he Rebel authorities and the U. S. officers
prisoners of War. However contemplible such jealousy raay be on the part, oif
Brig, Gen. Neal Dow, I give it as ray belief that his aniraosity to Lt. Col. San
derson, and the charges subsequently brought by said Dow, had their inception
in tbis raatter of distributing clothing.
As to the brutality of Lt. Col, Sanderson to tbe raen on Belle Island I can say,
from my own knowledge, that he treated them as an officer and a superior — quell
ing riot, and enforcing regularity in tbe quantity, time, and manner of distri
bution, as bis memoranda or accounts will show. I have also talked with nu
merous prisoners who were on Belle Isle, in my various prisons, and have yet
failed to find a good soldier who found any fault with Lt Col. Sanderson. The
deserters and substitutes (bounty jumpers) were, of course, loud in tbeir denupci-
ations — for, to thera, Lt. Col, S.\nderson was decidedly rude, not to say 'brutal."
I do not know that I need to say more, except as to the allegation that Lt.
Col, Sanderson betrayed a plot of certain officers to escape. As an intiraate of
those deepest in said plot, I can utterly deny the staiement ; for there never
was a plan made, although said plot was mooted by several surgeons and CoL.
Streight, assisted by two or three deteimined chaplains— I ara not sure but
what some foreign officers (Italian, or what not) figured in said plot ; but'it was
perfectly still-born, never having attained the dignity of a foetus ; and CoL San
derson never betrayed any plot, plan — or, to my knowledge, any confldence
reposed iu hira.
And, in closing this statement, allow me to add that, in my humble opinion,
Lt. Col. Sanderson is the victim of men whose meanness of sentiment and in
nate vulgarity (Brig. Gen, Neal Dow included) have made them overlook the-
many kind acts and noble traits of Gol. Sanderson,

STATEMENT of Capt, E. CHARLIER.
,[A. A. Inspec. Gen'l Ncnihern District, Dept. of the South.]
' * Was taken prisoner at the battle of Gettysburg, July 1st, 1863, remained about

xxv
eight months in tho L'lbby Prison, Richmond, Va., and released on parole
March 7, 1864, with a number of other oflioers.
I becarae acquainted with Ll. Col. Jamks M. Sandeuson shortly after the be
ginning of his capture. My quarters were at first in a room next to the one
where his were. Afterward^, and during tbe four or five last months of my
sojourn in the Libby Prison, my quarters were clo.se to bis. My knowledge of
him became, therefore, constant and intimate.
So far as I could ascertiin without taking any particular pains to do so, his
reputation w.as, at first at least, that of a respectable and respected officer, and
gentleman. I beard afterwards some complaints against hira, but never could
iind means to ascertain whether they were founded or not He seemed to have
warm friends and bitter enem'es.
No charge against hira was ever substanliated in my presence, so far as I
can remember, and I could never come to the conclusion that he deserved the
opprobrium which some endeavored to cast upon bira.
The fact tbat he had so many enemies was attributed by rae to petty jeal
ousies caused by bis appointment at the head of tbe Culinary Department of
tbe prison ; his efl-orls to i-egulate it in tbe midst of most trying circumstances ;
and also to his being appointed to superintend the distribution of provisions
and clothing to the prisoners at Belle Isle,
Unless I except the use of the word " damn," I never heard Lt Col. Sander
son raake use of vulgar or profane language. He was always polite and re
flned in his intercourse with me, or with others in ray presence, I even thought
him religously inclined.
His manners and habits were too far above those of too many of the prison
ers to admit of comparison in my own raind.
Never did I hear him utter a sentiment that had any disloyal tendency fo
rwards our Government, or that showed any sympathy for, the Rebel cause. His
.relations with the Rebel officers and eraployees of the prison ¦yvere indeed fre
quent, arad apparently pleasant and courteous ; but they were necessitated to a
great extent by his functions as head ,of the culinary departraent, and his
having to go out daily to Belle Isle, Like myself and others, he thought also
that nothing was to be gained by ungentlemanly conduct fow.ards our keepers,
and that unless a successful plan of escape could be devised, and carried into
execution, we ought to submit to tbe regulations of the prison. When once I
observed to him that his inlercourse with the Rebel officers was perhaps over-
friendly, he answered that it was merely that of gentlemen who carae in daily
contact, and that it might be beneficial to the welfare of the prisoners, or some
thing to that effect I understood also that he had in view an appointment as.
General Agent for the transfer and distribution of supplies to prisoners of war
in Rebel hands, and that he considered such an agent as more likely to succeed
well in his mission, should he be on good termsi personally with the Rebels.
I never perceived that Lt Col. Sanderson was avoided by tbe best class of
officers, and never heard a charge of disloyalty brought against him, except
once when the only proof adduced was his intercourse with tbe Rebels, To the
bestofmy knowledge he was treated with respect and deference by most of
those whom I considered as the respectability of the prison, A few, his ene
mies, for reasons unknown to me, did not speak to him, or of him in my presence.

XXVJ
FROM Capt. S. G, HAMLIN.
[134(7i iV. r. Vols.]
********** I knew Lt Col. James M, Sanderson in prison. His services as culinary di
rector, and his labor in organizing and systematizing the mess arrangements of
the prison, conduced more to tbe welfare and convenience of the officers than
the acts of any other officer. I deeraed his labors of great value to the prison
ers. His position was a difficult and unpleasant one, exposing him to annoy
ance and insult sometimes from junior officers. It was a prevalent opinion in
prison that all distinction of rank ceased while there, which caused much
trouble, especially to whoever undertook to introduce any regulations. Col.
Sanderson exposed himself to much abuse in his judicious attempts to intro
duce system and regularity, although his services secured us much convenience
and protection.
I never saw auything iu Col. Sanderson's conduct to justify a charge of cru
elty, inhumanity or brutality. I know of instances, on the conlrary, of his will
ingness to loan money to fellow officers to better their condition. It was re
ported in prison that he had advanced money to prisoners to enable them to
escape, I did hear it charged or rumored in prison that he had betrayed a plan of cs-
-cape lo the Rebels. No proof was ever given to me of the truth of the charge.
nor do I believe it was generally believed, I never beard of any person making
the charge lo Col. Sandep^son personally. My belief is, ils foundation is per
sonal enmity and not substantial proof.
I was acquainted ivith Gen. Xeal Dow. I saw him lake frnm Ibe prison two
trunks ¦with him when he left for Ihe North. I saw him pack the trunks. He
-did put sorae blankets in them, Tbe trunks were filled, but whether they con
tained any condensed milk or medicines, I could not positively say. It was
the prevalent opinion, however, that they did. I knew Capt. Atwood in prison,
and will say in justice to you. without injustice to otbers, Ihat I never saw any
thing in your character as a gentleman and an officer, but what would very fa
vorably corapare with that of Capt, Atwood, Gen. Dow, or Col. Streight
The number of blankets Gen, Dow saw fit to take up to Maine with him I
don't exactly know. I heard it was fourteen. I know he took several.
If my statement will be any nse in extricaling you from the bitter clutches
of personal strife engendered in onr loathsome confinement, and which I be
lieve to be a matter of personal enmity, f will have no regrets at the result.

FROM Capt, MARTIN TOWER,
[13th Regt. Mass. Vols.]
* • Was taken prisoner July 1, 1863, at the battle of Gettysburg, was confined
in Libby Prison, Eichmond, Va,. from July 18th, 1863, until February 9th, 1864,
at which time I effected my escape by means of a. tunnel dug by officers con
fined in the prison.

XXVII
I was intiraately acquainted with Lt. Col, Sanderson-, and consider his char-,
•acter as a m m and an olficer unimpeachable, ....
He was excelled by few of tbe officers conflned in Libby, in his manners,
liabits anil opinions, .... * .
I was acquainted with Col, A, D, Streight, aud consider his conduct
towards rebel officers, and others visiting the prison, as ungentlemanly and
unbecoming an officer of tbe United States. Iu no respeci do I consider him
more loyal, just, or dfflcer-like in his behavior than Col. Sanderson.
I never heard in Lisby of Col. Sanderson betraying any plan for escape to
the rebels, but know that he was aware of tbe existence of the " tunnel " at
least one week before my escape, from the fact of personal consultation with
him on tbe subject After I arrived home I heard of Col. Sanderson's arrest,
and talked with many officers (ex-prisoners) in regard to it, and they all con
sidered it unjust and cowardly in his accusers, and not one of them spoke of
liim in any other way than as an injured man, arrested without the slightest
cause, -
I accompanied Col. S.vnderson to Belle Island, and during my stay there he
treated the men with all kindness possible, « . . * •
I remember raany instances of his furnishing raoney to his comrades, and also
of his troubling 'himself on their account, particularly in carrying packages
and messages to the men at Belle Island,
I knew Brig, Gen. Neal Dow, and did not consider him more patriotic or
more honorable in his conduct than Col. Sanderson, and certainly not so gen-
tlemmly; had frequently heard while confined in prison that Gen'l Dow kept
'what we called there " a black list," consisting of tbe names of officers who,
for trivial offenses, he, when we should be released, was to have court-martialed
.and dismissed the service,
I never, while in prison, heard of his lending money to his comrades.
I was acquainted with Capt. Atwood, and he had the reputation of being
'very quarrelsome and disagreeable, and was' constantly engaged in difficulties
¦while cooking in the kitchen, and continually calling Col. Sanderson to settle
trivial and unnecessary quarrels.
Col. S.INDBRSON, on his entrance into the prison, undertook the systematizing
of our cooking and commissary affairs, which were in a very unsatisfactory
condition, and I believe that everything he did in regard to them was done in
an impartial manner, and every gentlemtin thanked him for it The position
-was extremely disagreeable and well calculated to make enemies for one who
did his duty impartially, particularly of persons of selfish dispositions. •

FROM Capt. GEO. H, STARR,
[With N. T. Vols.]
* * Was taken prisoner on the 1st July, 1863, at the battle of Gettysburg, and
escaped from prison at Columbia, S, C„ on the lOth October, 1864, reaching
«ur lines at Knoxville, Tenn,, on the 13lh November, having travelled about

XXVIII
400 miles. At the Libby Prison I first became acquainted wilh Lt.-Col, James.
M. Sanderson, and occupied quarters in Ihe same roora with bim during the
whole of his imprisonment. ....
Soon after be appeared among us, he was made Director of the Kitchen De
parment, and for many inonths used earnest and assiduous efforts to organize
and systematize the cooking and messing arrangements of the prison, wbich
efforts were very praiseworlhy, and certainly resulted very beneficially. The
position was not a desirable one, and occasioned grumbling and fault-finding
among the lawless and selfish, but was properiy appreciated by the majority.
The Colonel did many generous and friendly acts to his brother officers by
loaning money and other articles, which acts are held by many in grateful re
membrance. There were rumors about tho prison, especially after the Colonel had gone,
that he had been instrumental in betrayiug sorae plan of escape to tbe rebels ;
but many of his friends who heard of it, interested themselves in tracing this
rumor to its source, and never could learn what was the plan of escape so frus
trated, nor even the least grounds to juslify such a story, . . «
Being engaged in distributing clothing, &c., to our soldiers, and thus being
obliged to leave the prison daily to go to Belle Island, it gave occasion to his
enemies to talk about collusion wilh the rebels, and to circulate stories which
were never credited by sensible men. for the Colonel was only acting in the
line of his duty, and never to my knowledge, left the prison without a guard.

FRCM Capt. J. MARCHE McCOJIAS.
[Go. 1, 9th Maryland Vols.]
Was captured on the 18th day of October, at Charlestown, Va., and arrived
at Libby Prison, Richmond, ou the 26lh sarae month, and was released therefrom
on tbe 16th of March, I arrived at Annapolis the ISth of the same month, I
thought at the time of my release, and still Ihink, Ihat through the intercession,
of LtColonel San-derson I was paroled, I was intimately acquainted with
Col. Sa.nderson, occupying the sarae room with him — the east room — for nearly
five months, I have conversed witb hira often, and never heard him say any
thing in regard to Ihe rebellion, but Ihat he sustained tbe Government at.
Washington, The Colonel was very gentleraanly in his manners, and courteous to those
tbat showed respect to his position as an United States officer. So far as I am
able to judge he would compare favorably wilh his brother officers, « * • »
I accorapanied Ihe Colonel to Belle Island on one occasion. It was throngh
him I was permitted to visit the Island of Death, and see for the last tirae my
Buffering boys. He was very gentlemanly towards me, and all he came in con
tact with on that occasion, I never heard him make use of profane language ;
on the contrary, I always thought his manners very acceptable to gentlemen,.
not to others. I have known hira to interest himself to obtain boxes for bi&
fellow -prisoners and succeed; and advance them money to relieve their wants.

XXIX
FROM Capt. II, E. RULON.
[Capt. Co. B. 114 Regt. Penn. Vols.]
Was captured by the enemy at Gettysburg Pa., on the evening of July 2d,
1863, arrived at Libby Prison, Richmond Va., July 18th, frora which place I
was released March I4tb. 1S6I.
I know Lt. Col. James M. Sanderson, liaving been confined with him upwards
of six months in tbe above prison. *¦»*.«»
*****! was cognizant of his efforts to organize
and-systematize the cooking ai-rangements of the prison. His efforts in' this par
ticular w-ere very beneficial and praiseworlhy, the position was a very difficult
and trying one, and Col. Sanderson filled it with justice and impartiality, I
-have heard a charge made against Lt Col. Sanderson, of having betr.iyed a plan
of escape to tbe Rebel Authorities. It obtained very little credence among the
officers ; it was never substantiated, and I never heard any one willing to prove
it. or make the charge to Col, Sanderson personally, * * * . »
I have known Col. Sanderson to loan money to officers in distress. I know
Capt Atwood, he was known latterly as a bitter enemy to Col. Sanderson ; be
was not regarded as an agreeable person, but quite the reverse. I know A. D,
-Streight, to the best of my knowledge, he bore a very good character as an
officer and a gentleman. He was known to be an enemy of Col. S.iNDERgoN. I
¦did consider him more loyal than Col. Sanderson, from the fact tbat he
openly expressed bis hatred for the Rebels in very strong language, yet I did not
•consider him ihore gentlemanly or more kind than Col, Sanderson, the above',
"in my opinion, equaUy applies to Ex-Brig. Gen. Neal Dow. I left the prison
with Gen. Dow, be brought away with hirn two large trunks, I did not hear any
rumors as to their contents. .*».»..

FROM Acting Master FENTRESS, U. S, N,
'' * * Was captured in Mississippi, Sepi 12, 1863, andarrived at Libby Prison
'October 1,1863. I remained in Libby until May 6, 1864, when I was sent
Soulh. During my stay in Richmond I was quartered near to Lt-Col. J. iVI,
San-derson, and was in daily communication with hira, I always found him
gentlemanly in his deportment, and a firm supporter of tbe Government in all
its measures. As an officer he was, certainly, far superior to the majority con
fined in Libby.
In October, be took charge of the culinary department, and by bis energy
and knowledge of those things, (which but few knew anything about,) systema
tized that department, thereby rendering a most _ important service to bis
brother officers. His position was a most difficult one while in charge of that
departraent, and among the unruly he had many enemies. Sometime about
the 9th of October, Col, S, and myself were sent to tbe hospital ; w-e were
placed near each other while there, and I never saw hira in conversation with
any rebel officer or soldier. He lelt the hospital in a few days, and was again
taken to Libby, About three days after he left, I rayself was taken to prisonj

iXXX
and for the first time heard that some one had betrayed a plot of eseape. No.
one ever spoke of Lt.-Col Sanderson as the betrayer. It was generally knowa
that a fellow, by name Vermillion, who was acting as nurse in the hospital,
betrayed the plan to the surgeon in charge, I know tbis Vermillion ; he was.
not an officer ; I think he was a sutler when captured, and I always took him to.
be a bad man,
I knew of the plot to escape, and was to command a parly of naval men, io,
surprising a rebel gunboat near the prison, but I know that nothing was to be-
undertaken until our Government was informed of the plan, and co-operate with.
us. I knew Colonel Streight ; he was considered by all the officers confined iifc
Libby as a great blusterer. He had several quarrels with Col, Sanderson,
and was disposed to make trouble whenever opportunity occurred. I have fre
quently heard Col. Streight express himself in a most unofficerlike and ungentle
manly manner, when speaking of the " neglect of prisoners" by the Federal
Government. I also knew Neal Dow, Esq., (ex-Brig.-General.) He was regarded in prison
as a fanatic, who twice a week gave lectures on temperance, when even waler-
was most difficult to obtain.
Strange rumors were afloat in prison concerning quantities of sanitary stores.
appropriated by the General for his mess. * * * * *
By Colonel S.in-derson's gentlemanly conduct while in prison, he won the-
esteem of many officers ; and even the brutal keepers of the prison were com
pelled to acknowledge his superiority, and grant his requests at tiraes, Those-
requests were alwayt made for Ihe comfort of his brother officers.
I consider the loyalty of Lt-Col. J.ames M. S.inderson as unimpeachable, 'Tis
true he had not the bluster of Col. Streight, nor tbe whine of Xeal Dow, Esq.»
but, I think, is as true as either.

FROM Capt. E. McB. TIMOXEY,
[I5th U. .S. Infantry.]
* * * Was captured on the 20th Sept, 1863, at
the battle of Chicamanga ; was held a prisoner seven months and ten days, and
was paroled by the rebel authorities of Libby prison on tbe 30th day of April,
1864, .... * ».
I knew Lt. Col. James M. Sander.son, * ...
So far as I am capable of judging he is one of the most gentlemanly men
that I have ever seen. During the time tbat we were confined together I never
knew bim to act in any manner unbecoming an officer and a gentleman. I
don't think I ever heard him use a profane or vulgar expression, and as a gen
tleraan and an officer he was superior to the ma.ss of his fellow prisoners. As
an honest loyal man I never met his superior in Libby prison, . » *-
I knew of his teachings and services as Director of the Kitchen of the East
room. They were very valuable. Through bis kindness and experience we-
'were raade ten times more comfortable than we would otherwise have beea

XXXI

The position was a thankless and disagreeable one, and no raan unless he pos
sessed a kind and sympathetic heart, would have held the position a week and,
have to deal with the discordant elements confined in Libby prison. The posi
tion could not fail to create many enemies among the selfish and the quarrel-
some, ^
I first met Col, Sanderson on tbe 2d Nov, He asked me if I was one of the
Chioamauga prisoners, and if there was anything be could do for rae aud ray
brother officers, I told him that the rebels had taken. onr money frora us and
that we had nothing. The Colonel theu said "I will see if I can't do something
or you, and on the next day he gave me one hundred dollars. He appeared
to sympathize very much with us, and told me to tell my brother officers that
he hoped they would not hesitate to come to him for help, as he would gladly
give up all he could spare. In addition to tbis kindness to myself, quite a
number of officers told me of sirailar acts of kindness, *...».
There was a difficulty between Col. Sanderson and Col, Streight prior to my
-arrival at Libby prison, I beard a great many officers speak of it, and say that,
they thought Col. Streight had acted iu a very rude and insulting manner to.
Col, SA.NDBRSON ; from all I could learn Col, Streight was the aggressor,
I met Col. Streight nearly every day for seven months. Since his exchange he-
has been killed in battle, if he was alive I could answer the question (as to his
being a gentlemen and a soldier) fully. As it is I can simply say that Col,
Streight was not an officer tbat I would care about numbering with my friends,
as I did not esteem him as a courageous or prudent officer,
I heard that Col. Sanderson intended bringing charges against him for a vio
lation of the 26th Art of the Army Regulations, and for the cowardly surrender
of his command in Georgia, which was severely criticized by every officer of
intelligence aud experience that Ihave ever conversed with on the subject * *
The officer in coramand at Belle Island treated every Federal visitor there, as,
far as my knowledge extends, with great kindness and hospitality, and I believe
that if the government and sole care of the prisoners on Belle Island had been;
entrusted to him, there would have been no cause of complaint so far as treat
ment was concerned. * « . * . .
CoL Streight being dead I cannot answer as to the contrast between hira and
Col, Sanderson in their intercourse with Rebel Officers, as I would were he-
living. One of the first things I learned on arriving at Libby Prison was that Col.
Sanderson bad offered a reward lo any officer who wonld make his escape and,
carry intelligence to our Government of the reinforcement of Bragg by Long-
street I do not remember of Col. Sanderson having lent money to one or more offi
cers to enable Ihem to effect their escape through, the tunnel. But Ido know
that he offered me and other officers money for the purpose of bribing the
guard on other occasions, if we thought we could effect our escape, and have
hpld frequent conversations with him on Ihe subject
I did know Capt Atwood, he was generally looked upon as what is known;
in the army hy the term "striker" and was always regarded as a very quarrel
some and disagreeable person.

XXXII
I did not coiii-ider Gen. Dow as m jre loyal to his country than Col. Sa.nderson,
and of the two, Col. Sanderson was the most kind and attentive to the wants ot
his fellow prisoners,
I never knew Col, Sanderson to refuse any one a favor, if in his power to
grant it, and I have known him to treat his enemies among tbe prisoners, with
as much kindness as his friends.
I was present at the McKee meeting, the whole affair was gotten up by the
enemies of Col, San-derson for the avowed purpose of injuring his character,
and was discountenanced by every high toned officers and gentleman in the
prison. The meeting was gotten np in Col. S.i.nderson's absence on Belle Island,
and on his return he demanded a copy of the charges, but the ten or twelve
men who tried to have a set of resolutions passed at the meeting were so
ashamed *of their own conduct that he was unable to obtain a copy.
The charges against him were not sustained by tbe slightest attempt at evi
dence, and when even his enemies deraanded proof to sustain the alleged
charges, the authors of the affair were not able to give any : and, although Col-
Sanderson's friends were there accidentally, they out-voted and defeated his ene
mies by a large majority, and Ihe whole affair was regarded by every high-toned
gentleman as a cowardly and disreputable attempt to injure an officer by a trap
during his absence, ... ... *
To the best of my recollection it was not cold enough to freeze a man's ex
tremities before the 25th December. I don't think we had cold weather be
fore the first week in January.
No officer, to my knowledge, did more to alleviate the discomforts of his
fellow-prisoners than C9I. S.^ntierson. I shall always remember his kindness
towards myself and brother officers with gratitude, as I believe, the preserv<v
tion of our health was, in a great measure, due to him.
I saw him ¦\vhen he left the prison ; he did not carry anything away but a
shawl. Everything he bad, clothing and subsistence, was given by hira to his
messmates. I also saw General Neal Dow when he left the prison, I was tjld by quite
a number of officers that the General carried away two large boxes containing
clothing, subsistence and blankets. I saw boxes belonging to him carried out
of the prison, and for some time afterwards it was a subject of general remark
among ihe officers.
I do not think any officer justified, under any known circumstances, in carry
ing away blankets, or even books, knowing how many of his comrades were
suffering for want of them. In fact, I cannot S'.-e how it was possible for him h>
do so when there were so many tfficcrs in want, and without the opportunities
that most of us had for obtaining supplies from the North, nearly one hundred
of our number being from Tennessee and other places near the enemy's lines,
whence tbey could not obtain supplies.

XX.XIll
FROM Capt, J, F. SKELTON,
[I7th Regt. Iowa Vols. Inft'y.]'
Was wounded and captured at Jackson, Miss,, on the I-lth day oE' May, VSSS's.
and remained in Libby Prison until 1 made my escape on Ihe llth Deo:, by-
bribing a rebel sentinel. •«*«»» .
During my imprisonment wilh Lt Col, Sanderson, I always regarded- andi
respected him as an officer and a gentleman of both moral and railitary
worth, this gained for him many friends, and he was generally esteemed
by my acquaintances, I regard him as as a true and loyal man, I never heard
him express himself unfavorable or do an act against the Government, and
whilst other officers were expressing themselves against the Administration, fer
allowing the prisoners to remain in Rebel hands, he ever seemed patient and
had no feeling against the Federal Administration, and often rebuked otficers;
for denouncing it While in the hospital, although sick himself, to my positive
knowledge he was constantly attending to the wants of our sick and wounded.
prisoners, dividing his provisions, and giving money to purchase such luxuries
as were to be had. When he left the hospital, he divided what provisions be-
had among the most needy. When leaving the hospital, he was asked by one
of the prisoners, in my hearing, why he returned to the prison so soon, he sai-d.
that there were others, sick and suffering more than hiraself, and that his bed
was needed for them. While in the hospital his conduct was such as to gai'm
for him the esteem of every Federal Officer in it ; at least, such were the expres
sions of all so far as I have ever heard. When Col, Santjerson revealed to me a
plan to escape, I know that he was not overheard by any of the Rebel' Authori
ties, nor by Federal prisoners,
I never heard a Federal officer in the prison say that he suspected' Col, Sa»-.
derson of revealing this plot to the Rebel Authorities, So far as my acquaint
ance extended, it was generally believed that William- L. Vermillion waS' the-
party who divulged the plot.

FROM Lieut, P, OWEN JONES,
Isi Lirnt. & Adjutant, 2d N. Y. Cav..
Was captured on the 22d of September, 1863, at Liberty Mills, Va., and wa6<
released on parole from Libby prison on the Tth of March, 1864, I was person
ally and intimately acquainted with Lt," Col. James M, Sanderson. * * '*
• * * I always estimated and regarded him as one of the most gentlemanly,
courteous, and obliging officers confined iu the prison, I never knew of his
liaving used profane, vulgar or indecent language; on. the contrary, L am
decidedly of the opinion that much. of the ill-feeling entertained towards him
by the selfish and more ignorant portion of the prisoners arose ju-incipally, if not
altogether, from his universally dignified bearing ; so far as my observaUon
went, he was at all times treated with respect, and highly regarded by a.desid^d
majority of the intelligent portion of the prisoners.
His manners, habits, and general conduct were those of the most, polisheii

XXXIV
gentleman, and this under the most trying circumstances, i. e. during his admin
istration of the kitchen department of the East Room — a delicate and trying
position which he filled eminently to the satisfaction of all with whom I ever
had any conversation on tbe subject. In my opinion, his services in system-
at'izing and conducting this affair were of the most beneficial and servioable
character, and entitle him to the lasting gratitude of all who were so unfortun
ate as to be confined in Libby prison at that time. ...»
I never entertained a very favorable opinion of Col, Streight ; his peculiar
-views on the subject of religion, &c,, were such as to preclude tbe posibility of
my regarding him wilh much favor; but have not the slightest animosity
against hira watever. He was, I beliere, regarded as the chief circulating
medium (if not the author) of unfavorable reports against Col, S.inderson,
* * * I accompanied Col. Sanderson on oue occasion to Belle Island, and
had ample opportunity of judging for myself as to his manner of issuing cloth
ing to the men, as well as his general treatment of them, both by personal
observation and conversation with the raen, and the result was I was completely
satisfied that his method of conducting this business was most wise and judi
cious, and that no better system could have been devised. I know of his
having punished men, and I also know that in every case brought to my notice
the recipient eminently deserved it, for a more lawless and demoralized set of
men I never saw ; such a concentrated essence of rowdyism I hope never again
to come in contact with, I never heard of his having punished any man for
refusing to salute him or neglecting to take the position of a soldier,
I never regarded his intercourse with the rebel authorities, either on the
Island or elsewhere, as being more intimate than was perfectly proper and
strictly loyal. I have not the slightest hesitancy in saying, in the most unquali
fied manner, that he was the means of mitigating in no small degree the suffer
ings, and ministering to the wants of his fellow prisoners, much more so than
any other individual on the Distributing Committee. * . * »
I know Capt. Atwood, I do not regard him as a gentleman or man of honor,
nor would I believe him in any case where his personal enmity or interests were
involved, I know of Lis having circulated slanderous reports against Col
Sanderson, I never regarded Gen'l Neal Dow as a very distinguished military man, but
rather as an intermeddling, fussy and antiquated eld gentleman. ...
In conclusion, I beg to say, that I esteera it a privilege to be aUowed to testify
in defence of one whom I believe to have been most cruelly and unjustly
¦wronged ; and who is the victim of a most unscrupulous persecution on the
part of a few envious and narrow minded individuals who have been actuated
more by personal enmity than by a regard for the best interests of our country,
or the service. I cannot close this statement without testifying to the number
less acts of kindness performed by Col. Sanderson towards his fellow prisoners.
I have yet to learn of an instance -nhere he refused anything that was in bis
power to do or to give, either to friend or foe, when applied to, I know of
several instances when he furnished money to aid his fellow prisoners to
escape.

xxxv
FROM Lieut, L, B. COMINS,
1st Lieut. 4ih Mass. Art'y.
Was captured at Bacheler's Creek, near Newbern, N. C, Febuary 1st, 1864,
¦¦and was carried into Richmond, and was confined in Libby prison until
April 30th, 1864. I knew Lt Col. James M, Sanderson ; I became acquainted
with him at Lynnfield, Mass., where he was acting as Quartermaster of the
22d Mass, Vols., to which I was then attached as private Secretary of the then
Colonel Hon, Henry Wilson. I never saw him act in a cruel, tyrannical, or
unjust raanner to the men, and never recollect to have heard him use profane
or abusive language to any one there, or in Libby prison. His reputation as a
gentleman and officer was generally good, I bave heard his character decried
by raen who were known as his enemies. My quarters were among the officers
known as "Streight's men."
I know Col, A, D, Streight ; ho was known as an avowed enemy of Col, San
derson, He was very abusive and profane in his language, and was generally
regarded as a "great bully," I know Brig. Gen. Neal Dow, but did not regard
hira as more courteous, more humane, or more loyal than Col, Sanderson ; he
.certainly was not as generous, as kind, or as considerate of his companions as
Col, Sanderson. He was noted for bis selfishness, having a great pile of
¦blankets for his own use while other officers were without any. He is reported
to have carried away with him everything which he claimed to be his. I have
heard it stated that he carried away blankets, subsistence and medicines. Col,
Sanderson carried away with him a shawl and haversack ; he left with his
comrades a number of articles ; to me he gave a blanket. I never saw anything
in Col, Sanderson's conduct to justify a charge of cruelty, inhumanity, or bar
barity to any one, and never for a moment doubted his loyalty.

FROM SIMON GAVACAN,
Lieut. Smh A", F, Vols.
Do state on honor, that I knew Lt. Col, James M. Sanderson when he was
-engaged as Superintendent of the New- Y'ork Hotel, and I never heard or knew
of his acting unjustly, partially or cruelly to any one under him. He was
always strict and severe in his discipline, but never cruel, I have subsequently
met him under heavy flre at Fredericksburg, and always deemed h'm a brave
and loyal officer.

FROM Lieut, Wm. McEVOY.
[3d llVs. Cav'y.]
.... . . «
I do not know the cause of the enmity between yourself and Ge.i. Eow, but
would judge it to have arisen frora your undertaking to deliver the clothing, as
up to that time I never learned of any disagreement between you.
There is no one who has been with tbe General in prison, but knows that he
was very pettish, and when these rumors came to his eais. he everted bimself,
to a great extent, to find out what he could._And in justice to Gen. Dow, though

XXXVI
he may have wronged you, I believe the old man's fault was more of the head
than heart He was goaded by the Rebels, and would catch hold of anything
to show their rascality, and your position was such that it placed you
between the two fires, Y'ourself and others were aware that your mode of
living caused you a good many enemies, I believe they called the mess yoi
were in "the Royal Family," and the fact that you had plenty to eat and ta
wear — in a place where bread and clothing were such objects, was sufficient to
excite the envy of little minded men ; and, unfortunately for you, these men
found the ear of Gen, Dow open to their suggestions and opinions,.and it is my
opinion that if you had had ragged trowsers and but one shirt, you would likely
have come off scot free.
With regard to the General's action in keeping and oversupply of blankets,
I never paid any attention to it, Capt Adam Dixon told me that he had some
fourteen or flfteen, and that he asked him (Dow) to let him have a grey one to
make a rebel suit to escape with, but .that the old General would not let
him have it Dixon also told me at Columbia, S. C, that the General would not
give an officer in Libby a blanket, but inforraed him that he expected Gen.
Scammon, whom he expected to share with, I am aware the old General was
selflsh in some matters, but selfishness developed itself in the most of us
in some shape or the other. The only thing that seemed to me that was wrong
in Gen, Dow, was that, while he was doing all in his power to effect a special: ex
change for himself , he would preach to us the necessity of ms dying in prison be
fore yielding to the demands of the Rebels,
As to tbe course which Capt Atwood has taken, I know nothing more than
that he was a great friend of yours once, and done all your cooking, and fell
out with you because you would not give him wine, so tbe story went in Libby.
If he has taken the advantage of you, it should learn you a lesson, although
you are old, that is, to be a little more careful in selecting your cooks iii
future. Now my dear Colonel, my own honest conviction is, that you are neither a
thief nor a traitor, I saw you in prison from Sept, '63, until you were ex
changed, and saw nothing in your maimer, nor heard any charge brought
against you to make me think otherwise,
I would feel proud to have it to say that all the officers had conducted them
selves in such a gentlemanly manner as you did : it would reflect an honor on
us as a body of officers. Your courtesy was the means of Turner and othera.
paying you attention, and their doing so made you enemies in the prison.

FROM Lieut. D, J. CONTSTOLLY.
[7th Reg. V. R. C, U. S. A.]
*******
Was captured at the Battle of Gettysburg, 2d July, 1863, and was a prisoner
of War at Libby Prison, Richmond, Va., for a period of eight months, and was
released on parole on the Tth day of March 1864, I was acquainted with Lt.-

XXXVII
Col, James M, Sanderson, • . . . »
I have known Capt Atwood, and of his having had a difficulty with Lt,-Col,
Sanderson, after which he was never a friend of Col, S,
I know Col, A, D, Streight by sight and by reputation, he had the reputa
tion of being a very violent and e.xcitable officer, and of using profane and un
gentlemanly language to his fellow-prisoners in his conversation with thera.
There were rumors floating round the prison to the effect that Col, Streight
surrendered his command in a very unjustifiable and unsoldier-like manner.
He was the principle character in getting up an indignation meeting among the
-officers in the upper East room, for the purpose of denouncing Cols. Sanderson
and Tilden, He was known to be a bitter and unscrupulous enemy of Lt.-Col,
S, He was reported to be the originator of a story to the effect that Lt,-Col, S,,
was the betrayer of the plot to escape to the Rebel authorities. Such charge
was, however, never substantiated, nor was there ever an atterapt to do so. I
'have heard, and know and seen Lt,-Col, Sanderson lend money to his needy
comrades, I have heard it remarked among the officers tbat Lt.-Col. S,, had
lent money to some of the officers to enable them to escape through tbe tunnel,
I knew Bi-ig,-Gen, Neal Dow, by sight and by reputation, I have heard of
¦his keeping a " black list " of the names of his fellow-prisoners who had in any
way misbehaved, or who had enjoyed themselves by talking loud at night, &c.
There was a rumor afloat among the prisoners to the effect tbat he (Gen, Dow)
was captured in a manner which showed negligence and carelessness ou his
part I have heard officers, who were released at the same time with Gen, Dow,
say, that he took away with him all his food and eatables in two large boxes,
when he was going away from prison, which was considered a gross'act of in
humanity considering the then needy and distressed condition of the prisoners.
I have never thought Gen. Dow or Col, Streight were more loyal, humane or
courteous gentleman than Lt,-Col, Sanderson,

FROM Lt, HARLAND RICHARDSON,
[2d Lieut. 19tfi, Ind.Vols.]
Was captured at the battle of Gettysburg, in Pennsylvania, July 1, 1863. I
was paroled at Columbia, S. C, on December 8, 1864. I was well acquainted
with Lt Col. J. M, Sanderson, * * On several occasions
I knew of the Colonel lending money to his distressed comrades and fellow-
prisoners, and doing all in his power to better their condition.
I know that Col, Sanderson rendered much valuable service in the Kitchen
Department of our prison, in systematising and regulating that department ; and
that he was painstaking, industrious, and forbearing, and that his position was
a trying and difficult one, causing much enmity on the part ofthe lawless and
insubordinate. His conduct was just and impartial to all men while engaged in
lis official duties, in my opinion ; and by bis proraptness, firmness, and disci
pline, he added much to the comfort and regularity of that important point of
prison life— the meals. I know there was a band of selfish and quarrelsome

XXXVIII
characters who did everything in their power to impede Col. S.vnderson and)
others intheir efforts to establish system aud order in the prison, * *
Col, Sanderson was frequently referred to as an arbiter of the disputes arising
in tbe Kitchen Department of the prison, I knew Col. Streight, but I knew but
little about him. He was one of the prisoners with the rest of us ; but, so far
as I knew, be was not more of a gentleman, more humane, or more loyal thani
Col. Saxderso.v. I know, or at least have strong reasons for believing, that Col.
Streight was a personal enemy of Col. Sandeiison. » , »
I knew Xeal Dow, Brig.-Gen. — he was not considered more kind or patriotic
than Col, Sanderson. I never heard of him lending money or putting himself to
any trouble in any way to better the condition of his fellow-prisoners, I knew
of his taking t->vo Iranks away from Libby Prison, supposed to contain blankets
and provisions ; and I think there was not at any time more blankets or provi
sions in the prison than was necessaiy for tbe comfort of the prisoners. In fact,
there were prisoners there all the time suffering for the want of these articles,
I never knew Col. .-^anuerson to convey any thing of the kind away ; but, on
the other hand, 1 know that be left blankets and provisions with the officers,
when he left the prison.
I knew Capt. Atwood, and I recollect one instance in which he got Col, San-
DER.S0N into a difficulty with other officers, and I know that he was a bittei'
enemy of Col. Sanderson.

FROM Lt, GEO, D. BRISBEE.
[2d If. Co. C, 15th MaineVols.]
I was captured at Gettysburg, Pa., July 1, 1863, and have been a prisoner in
the bauds of tbe rebels ever since that time till December 9, 1864, when I waa
paroled by the Confederate authorities at Columbia, S, C,
I knew Lt, Col. J.vmes M, S.iNDBRS0N ; I first met bim in Libby Prison ; I was
quartered in tbe same room and the same portion of the room with him, I wa»
in the same mess with him a portion of the time,
I knew Capt Atwood, of the 16th Maine Vols, — he was considered quarrel
some and a tale-hearer. He was constantly embroiling Col, Sanderson in use
less and embarrassing difficulties in the kitchen by his tattling and selflsh dispo
sition. He was finally known as a bitter and unscrupulous enemy of Col, San
derson. I knew of Col, Sanderson advancing his money to his needy fellow-prisonera
and shariivj his fare with those who were more needy.
I was present when Gen. Neal Dow left the prison — he carried two large
trunks with him, I did not see the contents, I heard it said they contained
blankets.

XXXIX
FROM Lt, R, C, KNAGGS,
[l.s( Lt. d- A'ld-de-Cnmp lo Brig.-Gen. Henry Baxter.]
Was captured on the Ist of July, 1863, at the battle of Gettysburg, and re
mained a prisoner iu the hands of the Rebels at Libby Prison, until released
on parole, March 7, 1864. I know Lt Col. J. M, Sanderson— was as intimate
with him as an officer of my rank could expect to be. He was very gentle
manly, courteous, and kind— even to conferring favor on those who dislike*
him. He was continually being called on, by nearly all, at different times, to-
alleviate the sufl'erings of his fellow-prisoners ; and I never heard of his refus
ing any oue of his brother officers a favor, if in his power to grant it For in
stance, at the time of our release, when on the Flag of Truce boat, Xew-York,
great fault being found with the accommodations furnished us, Lt Col. S,, by
tacit consent, was selected as the proper person to represent his brother officers,
although by no means the ranking officer present, and obtained the necessary
redress. He even loaned money to his brother officers, who were destitute to
pay for the meals tbat they were obliged to purchase.
He invariably used all the influence he possessed for the purpose of mitigat
ing the horrors of prison life.
The position of Culinary Director (a very disagreeable one) was voted hira,
by officers of the higher grade, I considered his teachings most valuable, and,
if properly carried out,,would have conduced much to the comfort of those
concerned. His whole time, for some mbnths,'was devoted to the organization
and carrying out his plans, and was only abandoned in consequence of some of
the junior officers becoming insubordinate.
He was not in the habit of using vulgar or profane language to his comrades,
and his deportment was that of a true gentleman in every sense of the word.
I never heard him say one word adverse to the Government or its measures, or
anything that could be construed as favorable to the Confederacy, or its institu
tions ; but, on the contrary, he ever in his language and general deportment,
gave evidence of his entire loyalty to the U, S, Government
He was very popular generally as an officer, and his society and favor was
courted by officers of inferior and, in some cases, superior rank. His style of
living was snch as to provoke comment from the envious and jealous-minded,
although he owed none of its advantages to any other than himself, as they were.
the result of his own knowledge and tact,
I was aware of a difficulty existing between Col. Streight andLt, Col. S.— anS
the general opinion was that Col, Streight was the aggressor, I was not present
at any of the meetings called in reference to the difficulty, I raet Col. Streight
very frequently and have spoken with him at different times, but was not inti
mate with him ; but, from my observations of his actions, I believe him to be
ef a tyrannical and overbearing disposition, very profane in his language, and
with but few characteristics that would designate the gentleman, I heard Lt.
Ool, S, say that his intentions were to bring charges against Col, S., for violating
certain Army Regulations, and for a cowardly surrender of his command to the
enemy, I knew Capt Atwood very well. In my opinion, he was the means of institut
ing or circulating many slanders against Lt, Col, S, He, in many instances,
drew Lt. Col, 8. into disputes with his brother-officers in regard to who had a

XL
Vight to the cooking stoves, Capt. A. was of a quarrelsome disposition, very
apt to find fault when there was no cause whatever. He was noted for his sel
fishness, and had but very few friends either in or out of prison,
I was quite intiraate with Brig.-Gen, N, Dow (that was.) I never considered
¦liim any very great honor to the uniform he d'ld wear (which consisted of a Cap
tain's coat and a Private's pantaloons,) or the Service, as evidently his J'urie was
¦not that of a military man, but that of a Temperance lecturer.
He was not noted for hia amiability or his generosity. During my whole term
of imprisonment, I never knewhim to do one single kind action, or to assist in
anyway or shape whatever towards alleviating the sufferings of his com
panions. He was the possessor of two large packing trunks and a large number of
Wankets ; and, when asked by me one day previous to his exchange, what his
intentions were as regarded the trunks and blankets, he very coolly informed
me that all be had he should certainly take with him. Said I : " General, you
«annot carry them — how will you get them to the boat?" [distance some half-
Biile.] " Oh," said he, " I will get some of the other officers to assist rae," I
¦only state the foregoing to show how extremely selflsh the General was, when
there were plenty of officers who, up to the the time I left, had not even a
blanket they could call their own, and would have blessed bim ten thousand
times for what he took away and what he did not need after his arrival in
" God's country,'' raore than a toad would require two talis I also wish to state,
that all rumors (of which the prison was full, all the time) that came to his no
tice, to the disadvantage of Lt. Col. S, or others, (the former, more particularly)
Ihe noted in his memoranda book ; and would also make inquiries of his brother-
¦offieers about the same person, in order to ascertain something to his disadvan
tage. He was not only meddlesome in tbe affairs of others, but was so ex
tremely anxious to get something to write down, that he would get into an ar-
:guraeDt with some one and pick up what little things the man might have aaid
mnwittingly and book them preparatory to a settlement after their release. This
has been told to me,
1 did not consider Gen, Neal Dow in every respect so truly loyal as Lt Col.
Sanderson. I formed this opinion from what I saw and heard while confined
with them as a prisoner.
Lt Col. Sanderson left, when released, nearly everything for the benefit of
those who remained in prison — all his blankets, medicines, tools, etc, only
bringing with hira a haversack and shawl.
The distribution of the Sanitary Coramission Supplies was placed under the
supervision of Capt, E, A, Fobes, C, S., without Lt Col, S. being cognizant of
the fact ; and I believe that the stores were distributed equally, with the excep
tion (as I have been told, by Capt, Fobes himself) that Col di Cesnola and Brig.-
Gen. Neal Dow received rather more than anyone else — the 1 after pieading disli-
toHon. I think the cold weather did not oome until the latter part of the month of
December.

XLl
FROM Lieut, THOMPSON LENNIG,
[2d Lieut, dlh Penn. Cav'y.]
'Captured Juno 9th, 1863, at Brandy Station; confined in Libby prison from
June lOth, 1853, to March 14th, 1864,
Lt, Col, James M. S.vnderson arrived at Libby prison about flve or six weeks
after rayself, and I was only slightly acquainted with him until he joined the
mess composed of Capt B. A, Fubes, Gapt, R. 0, Ives, and myself,
I always heard Col. Sanderson spoken of by tho better class of officers as one
who maintained his position as an officer and a gentleman. He never, in my
hearing, made use of profane, vulgar or abusive language, and was not distrusted
by the officers of my acquaintance on account of supposed disloyalty. I
believe that Col. S.inderson stood as high in the estimation of a majority of the
prisoners as any officer of equal rank.
I never heard Col, Sanderson express any sentiraents adverse to our Govern
ment, or in favor of the rebellion. We messed together nearly three months,
and I remember distinctly having heard hira condemn slavery in strong terms,
'Our mess was certainly better provided Ihan others, but this was owing to our
friends at home, who sent us boxes by every opportunity, and not to the favor
itism of the rebels. To my certain knowledge, Col, S.iNDERS0N distributed food
to his fellow jirisoners, and lent money to those who tried to escape, I was
Confined in the same room, with Col, Streight for five months he did not<gener-
ally command that respect among his fellow-prisoners to which he was entitled
by his rank.
I heard officers of his command say that his surrender of his coramand was
unnecessary and premature, I was not present at the discussion between Col
Streight and Col, Sanderson, but I heard many officers say that Col, Sanderson
had behaved with dignity and reserve, and that Col. Streight had grossly
insulted him.
I did not know Brig.-Gen, Neal Dow personally, but owing to the crowded
condition of the prison I saw him daily. Gen, Dow had no influence in the
prison, and was often Ihe subject of ridicule for those who forgot his rank in
the general raisery that pervaded the prison. Gen, Dow left the prison the
same day with myself, taking with hira two heavy trunks ; it was said, and
undoubtedly believed, that he took sixteen blankets with him, sent to the prison
by the Sanitary or Christian Commission for distribution ; at this tirae many
officers were suffering from the intense cold. » * » * *
Capt. Atwood was apt to make trouble, and carry reports from one officer to
another, and in this way was apt to engender a bad spirit.
Col, Sanderson on his departure left nearly everything he had for the use of
his messmates and other friends, taking only that which was absolutely neces
sary, ********* ^ ,
I never knew of Col, Streight's having concocted a plan of escape, and believe
that any plan for overpowering the guard would have been fool-hardy and
Tesulted in great loss of life,
I once accompanied Col, Sanderson to Belle Isle, and did not see him ill-
treat or abuse the prisoners, I did not see him punish them for not taking the
iposition of a soldier. The prisoners were in a most miserable, starving condi-

XLII
tion, and many sold their clothes to the rebels in order to procure food, and
afterwards tried to obtain more from Col. Sanderson, to the detriment of those
who had not yet received any. On this account Col. Sanderson was obliged to
enforce the strictest discipline.

FROM Ret. W. G. SCANLAN.
I, Wm. G. Scanlan, a Christian Minister, settled for Ihe last seven years over
the Unitarian parish in Grafton, Mass., -n-as captured while acting as an agent for
the U. S. Sanitary Commission, and confined in Libby Prison from July 20, '63
to Sept 2d, 1863, when I was removed to Castle Thunder until Sept. 22, having
access to Libby twice during Ihe last named time. During my confinement in
Libby Lt.-Col, Ja-Mes M. Sanderson was brought in, I knew him well and fre
quently came in contract with hira in our common efforts to improve the condi
tion of the officer. He being connected, if not Ihe chief mover in, our kitchen
organization ; while I sought his interest in our Lyceum and discussions, I never,
in my frequent intercourse heard one word in favor of the Confederacy or
against his General. I did consider his efforts in the kitchen valuable, and the
position a very unthankful one, demanding patience and stability ; receiving
from many in return suspicions of partiality and a jealousy peculiar to prison
life, when crumbs are watched and privilges measured with a nicety unknown
in the raidst of our comraon blessings. Barbarity I should take to be the last
and least element in his composition. He was always courteous and gentlemanly,
my first impression led me to look upon him as being somewhat aristocratic
and dignifitfd ; he was respectful to all, and choice in his use of language. I
never heard of his betiaying any plan ofthe officers to escape, until after his
release, and then only through the papers, I never doubted his loyalty, nor
had reasons to suspect his conduct I was also acquainted with Col, Streight,
never sought him as a companion, because our general characters might be
termed opposite. He was not choice in his use of language. He certainly was
overbearing at times, and very bitter against those who differed wilh him. I
should not consider him any more loyal than Col, Sanderson, not as courteous
or humane. He was a delared opponent of Col, Sanderson long ere I left for
Castle Thunder,

FROM LOUIS H, BOUDRYE.
[Chaplain ofthe 5th N. Y. Cav'y.]
Was captured by the Rebels near Monterey Pass, Pa., July Sth, 1863, and
confined in Libby Prison, Richmond, from ISth July to Tth Oct. 1863.
I knew Lt.-Col, James M. San-derson, my quarters were in the same room
with his, and within ten feet of his, while I stayed in the prison, I saw him
every day, and conversed with him- frequently. His reputation as an officer
and a gentleman was very good. He was not in the habit of using profane,,
vulgar or abusive language, and compared very favorably in manners, habits,
and conduct with the great majority of the officers conflned in Libby. I never

XLin
heard him express sentiments adverse to the Government and its measures or,
in favor ofthe Confederacy and its institutions,
I knew Col, A, D. Streight His reputation as a gentleman was very good as
aa officer not so very good, there were grave charges current in the prison of
his having surrendered his command to the enemy in a cowardly and uniusti-
fiable manner.
He was not, I think, considered more just, humane or loyal than Col, San
derson, I knew of a meeting gotten up by Col, Streight and bis associates for the
purpose of denouncing Cols, Tilden and Sanderson, having been present at it,
only for a short time however,
I heard Col, Sanderson say, he intended bringing charges against him for hia
conduct in this affair.
Col, Streight, before I left, was considered as a bitter and uncompromising
enemy of Col, Sanderson,
I never saw anything in Col, Sanderson's conduct to induce me to believe
him a cruel, harsh or unjust man.
I was cognizant of his efforts to organize aud systematize the culinary arrange
ments of the East rooms, his labors were constant and efficient, serving to add,
greatly to the comfort and well being of all the prisoners in that department
The position he held was one of great delicacy and difficulty, and well calculated
to make enemies ofthe lawless, the depraved and the selfish,
I think it was in contemplation to invite Col, Sanderson to take charge of the
same department in the West rooms, but it was opposed and defeated by Col,
Streight for his own selfishness,
I knew Capt Atwood, who was regarded, as a most quarrelsome and captious,
person, constantly complaining and embroiling Col, S-Anderson in numberless
difficulties.

STATEMENT OF ENLISTED MEN
of ihe lUh Maine Vols.
We hereby state on honor that we are members of the I6th Maine Inf, Vols,,
and that we were captured at the battle of Gettysburg, July Ist, 1863, and
carried to Belle Isle, where we were confined as prisoners of -n-ar.
We were present at the time the clothing was received frora our Government
and distributed by Col, Sanderson, and received certain articles of said cloth
ing. We do not know of his habitually ill-treating, abusing or insulting the.
enlisted men while issuing the clothing, or constantly addressing them with
oaths, curses or bitter revilings.
Did not see him or knew him to "buck or gag'' or kick them for trivial
offences, or punish them severely for not saluting, or for refusing to take their
hands out of their pockets.
He did not exact of them more respect than military discipline required or.
his rank entitled him to. As far as our observation extended, he acted with.

XLIV
.justice and impartiality in distributing the clothing, and did not observe more
caution than was absolutely necessary to prevent being cheated by improper
and dishonest men.
There were a certain class among the prisoners known as "Raiders," who
made it their business to rob the sick, and those who were unable to defend
themselves of their clothing and rations, and in many instances pursuing a
most brutal course towards them, depriving them of the scanty allowances they
possessed. Whenever any coraplaint of this character was brought to the
notice of Col, Sanderson, immediate steps were taken by him to punish the
offenders, and the punishment inflicted was no more than they deserved, and in
some cases not sufficient We do .not know of his insirlting, abusing, or punish
ing an enlisted man who approached him properly or respectfully.
JOSEPH JEWELL, Co, F,
WM. G, JONES, (his t mark), Co, D,
PETER T. BEAN, Co. D,

FROM C, C, PULTON, Esq.,
(Publisher of the Baltimore American.) BALTI.M0RE, May 29th, 1865,
Col, James M. Sanderson .-
Dear S'lr : — I cut the annexed letter from the file of the Baltimore American
of date March 4th, 1864, It is the only letter I find from Mr, Cowardin in
which your name is mentioned. Mr. Cowardin, although a rank rebel, responded
promptly to my appeal in behalf of humanity to assist in the prompt delivery
of the supplies and money I sent to our prisoners, I received a dozen or more
similar letters frora him in 1863-4, and I always heard from our returning
prisoners that he was very kind and attentive to them. He was an old acquaint
ance, and I know possessed an influence at Richmond that could not be dis
regarded. Respectfully yours,
[Signed] C, C, FULTON,
JMracL] Richmond, Febuary 24th, 1864.
Major John E, Mulford :
fortress Monroe.

The sum S664,20 (less $20 counterfeit,)'! have placed in the hands of Lt,-
Col, Sanderson, of Ist Corps Federal Army, for distribution, and enclose his
Teceipt, The Colonel has at this time a large amount of money, which our
•authorities have directed him, in conjunction with Capt, Selph, of the Confed-

XLV

erate Army to invest in such articles as they think best, and distribute among;
the prisoners. Colonel Sanderson has exhibited a great deal of energy as well
as discretion as the chief of a board of Federal officers, who have been employed
in distributing clothing and other things sent through the lines for the prisoners.
He has moreover won the respect and confidence of all with whom he has coma
in contact by his frankness and suavity, I could devise no plan for distribu
ting the money sent me that would be at all comparable for its success with
that of confiding it to him, to go along with his large aggregate, and to ba
distributed wilh his efficient means, and under his experience and systeraatioi
plan, ¦»•*«.*, Very respectfully. Yours obed't serv't J, A, COWARDIN.

FROM J, A, COWARDIN, Esq,.
{Editor of the Richmond Dispatch.)
Richmond, Va., July 16th, 1865.
Understanding that Col, James M, Sanderson has been charged with " dis
loyalty " to the Federal Government and " cruelty to the enlisted (Union) men
on Belle Island," &c,, I take pleasure in bearing testimony as far as I can, to
the injustice of these charges. Having myself, at different times, in the Winter
and Spring of 1864, a large amount of things for distribution among the pris
oners on that Island, and being compelled to visit " Libby " frequently for the
purpose of discharging similar commissions, I very often met with Col. Sander
son, who was selected, as I understood, by hia fellow-prisoners as principal of a
board, whose organization was elicited by the Confederate authorities, for the
purpose of distributing clothing and subsistence sent through the lines by their
own Government and people for their comfort and sustenance. For very many-
days and for hours together each day I saw Col, S, engaged iu this duty, and
was struck with the system and order with which the whole matter was done.
The whole business of enrolling the men, and giving them in order, what each
was entitled to, was performed in a manner which precluded, as far as I could
see or imagine any unfairness ; while the department of Col, S, and the officers
who aided him, was universally kind and considerate towards the men : I could
not see how it could be more so ; while the labor of distribution was performed
with great expedition, often under circumstances of great discomfort to the
Colonel and his assistants at an inclement season,
I was often brought in company with the Colonel, conversed with him, and
heard him converse with others, but never heard him utter a sentiment disloyal
to his own Government, nor make at any time any concessions from his position
and fealty as an officer in the Federal Army, He was uniformly courteous and
polite, and was respected by our soldiers and citizens, but I never heard one
utter a suspicion of his loyalty to his own Government. Treachery to that or
his fellow soldier would be utterly irreconcilable with his deportment as far
as I observed it J. A. COWARDIN.

XLVI
STATEMENT OF Lt, BOSSIEUX, _C,_S, A,
Richmond, July 3, 1865,
I, Virginius Bossieux, late a Lieutenant in the Confederate army, do hereby
depose and swear, that I was Commandant of the Prisoners' Camp on Belle
Island, from June, 1863, to July, 1864, and subsequently. I know Brig.-Gen.
Neal Dow, He was sent over to the Island to distribute the clothing sent by
the U. S, Governraent to the enlisted men there prisoners of War, His manner
of doing business was so unsystematic and loose that I was forced to ask that
he might be relieved and others appointed in his place, which was done. The
flrst day Gen, Dow made his appearance on the Island, he made a speech to
them, which raised their expectations so high that, on finding themselves disap
pointed, they cursed him in the most infamous manner ; and when I remarked
to him that I had some very bad raen there, he replied, '- Yes, they are the Tak
ings and scrapings of Europe.'' The officers who succeeded Gen, Dow were
Col. Cesnola, Lt Col, Boyd, and Lt Col, Von Schrader, who went lo work in a
systematic and organized raanner; their manner of doing business gave very
general satisfaction. Col, Cesnola, however, for reasons, was relieved, and Lt
Col. J, M, Sanderson sent in his place. It was my business to see the members
of the Commission whenever they came upon the Island, I saw Col, S. on every
occasion that he visited the Camp, and was cognizant of all his movements — it
being impossible for hira to go or come or circulate beyond a very limited space
without my permission, I have constantly witnessed his manner towards the
¦enlisted men whilst engaged in issuing clotbing ; he was not in the habit of ad
dressing them with oaths, curses, or bitter revilings. On the contrary, he was
always kind and considerate, acting, however, with firmness and dignity. Both
Cols. Cesnola and Cols. Von Schrader were in the habit of using strong lan
guage to the men — much stronger than Col. Sanderson ; believing, doubtless,
that such a course was necessary to enforce proper discipline, Tbe prisoners
were very disrespectful and insubordinate at first, and Col, S. was forced, owing
to their insulting manner, to adopt such measures as were permitted him to
suppress their insolence, Ihave never known him to punish a personal insult
other than by reproof. He did punish two men for drawing clotbing from him
and seUing it immediately to the guard. This offence was considered the cause
of much difficulty ; and, at his request, I caused some of the guard caught in
the act of buying clothing from the prisoners to be arrested and court-
martialed. Among the prisoners were a number of men of the most depraved and
wicked character — robbing, ill-treating, and murdering their comrades forthe
sake of plunder. To suppress this gang was a constant study with Col, S., and
at his suggestion I organized a, patrol among the prisoners themselves,'whicb
had the desired effect Some of these men were caught in the very act of de
spoiling their comrades.; and, at Col, Sanderson's request, I ordered them to be
bucked. Had they been turned over to the prisoners themselves, they would
have fared much worse. Col, S, was uniformly courteous and gentlemanly to
every person connected with the camp ; and, being respected by all, was more
successful in his efforts to relieve the prisoners than any olher Federal officer I
had any knowledge of. In fact, he never made any suggestion to rae that I did

XLVII
not cheerfully grant and accede to, if in my power to grant I was personally
cognizant of many acts of kindness and of disinterested friendship on the part
of Col, S, to the raen by advancing thera money, preventing them from sacri
ficing valuable property, and disposing lo the best advantage Ihe proceeds of
their industry and handiwork. There were no other officers on the Island but
the officers of the guard and myself. I certainly never reproved Col, S, for his
treatment to the men, as I considered his conduct to them officer-like and gen
tlemanly ; and I do not believe any other officer pretending to any knowledge
of discipline or subordination, would have done so, I never saw or heard of
his making sport of the Federal prisoners for the amusement of Confederate
officers. On the contrary, I have heard him address strong sympathy and do
everything in his power to alleviate their miseries. He has reproved them for
filthiness, carelessness, or bad conduct to each other ; and, after the flrst few
days of bis visiting the Island, has compelled them to pay him the respect due
to his rank and position ; but I never knew bim to maltreat or abuse them for
trivial offences or punish them for neglecting to salute him, nor did I ever know
or hear of his bucking, gagging, or kicking them for any cause excepting those
mentioned. In fact, he had not the right to punish any one without my con
sent ; nor do I think he ever did so without flrst stating the case to me and ob
taining permission, I have often thought and frequently said to him that he
submitted to the insolence of some of the enlisted men with more patience than
they deserved. I never heard of his refusing shoes to barefooted men, nor of
any one having his feet frozen in consequence of such refusal, nor do I believe
it When the men approached him properly and respectfully, I have never
known hira to refuse them, if in bis power to oblige them. Many attempts were
made by the worst portion of them to deceive Col. S., and obtain from him
articles they had already been furnished wilh or were not entitled to, A very
comraon excuse was tbat Ihey had been robbed by their companions of their
coats and blankets, and wanted Col, S. to replace them. This I have known
him to do in some cases, but generally he refused until every other man was
served at least once, I never knew or heard of his giving U. S. clothing to any
person connected with the Confederate service. On the contrary, I have known
of his refusing such clothing to enlisted men suspected by him of having taken
the oath of allegiance to the Confederate Governraent
Political or sectional discussions were as a rule forbidden at my table : the
Federal officers, visiting the Island, were in a measure my guests, and their
duties compelled thera to be there at the lime I generally took my dinner. Seats
were provided for them, and they were invariably invited to partake, and out
of respect to them, all subjects of a disagreeable nature were prohibited. On
one or two occasions such a discussion did arise, but Col, S, in each instance
defended the cause of his Government and section respectfully but flrmly.
Col, S,, took great pains to make himself acquainted with the wants and
necessities of the men, and anxious to learn the tiuth ofthe many tales told of
their treatment. He constantly visited the kitchen of the camp, instructing and
advising the cooks, and frequently inspeoled the grave-yard where all the men
dying on the Island were buried, counting the graves, and making his memo
randum at every visit. He was always accompanied by one or more Federal

XLVIII
officers, fellow-prisoners, to whom every privilege of conversing with the men,
freely and unreservedly, was granted. By every one I ever heard speak of Col.,
Sanderson, he was regarded as a courteous gentleman, and as far as I could
judge was as ready to accord to every one due respect, as he was prompt to de--
mand it from them, [Signed] VIRGINIUS BOSSIEUX.
State of Virginia, City of Richmond, to wit :
This day personally appeared before mo Virginius Bo.ssieux, and made oath-
that the stateraent hereunto annexed is true.
Given under my hand, )
this 5th July, 1865, j
Wm, Taylor, J. P.

STATEMENT OF Capt, C. McRAE SELPH,
My name is Colin McRae Selph, I was a Captain, Ass't.-Adj't, General in the.
late Confederate States Army, I was assigned to duty with Gen, Winder in the
Winter of '63 and '64, and, by him, placed in charge of the supplies which, were
sent from the United States to tbe prisoners of War in Richmond, and other
cities of the Confederacy,
I met Lt-Col, J. M, Sanderson, who was a prisoner of War in Libby Prison,
He was at the time of my flrst meeting with him, engaged in the distribution of.
clothing, &c., to the prisoners on Belle Isle,
In organizing a board of Federal officers, whichwas to assist me in the proper
distribution of the supplies, I retained all of those who had been acting previ
ous to my assignment to duty, adding Lt Col, Archer, of Ky,, because of his
kindness towards some of my friends in Vicksburg, The members of this Board,.
among whom was Lt Col. Sanderson, were brought frora Libby Prison to my
office every morning, where a portion reraained to distribute the clothing, etc,
to the prisoners, and the other portion went to Belle Isle for the same purpose.
Col. S. took upon himself the more arduous duty of attending to tbe wants of
the prisoners on Belle Isle, The Board generally remained out of Libby Prison
until 6 or 7 o'clock, p, m,, or they could return- to the Prison and leave it at any
time during the day upon expressing a wish to do so.
Col, Sanderson often asked and obtained permission for several of his fellow-
prisoners to accompany him to Belle Isle, thus enabling many to enjoy tbe
fresh air, exercise and a change of association. His general character as a
courteous gentleman, and his freedom from any selfish spirit, rendered Col. S,,
respected by all the officers of the Libby Prison, Yet he was looked upon as a
staunch loyal man, and expressed his opinii .ns when called upon by the language
of others, freily and boldly. Upon one occasion, in my office, I was forced to
order the Lieutenant of the Guard to cease conversation with Col, S., because the
conversation was not such as should be held between a prisoner of War and an
officer of the guard. Col. S., was then defending with great force the cause of
the Union, and much to the disadvantage of the Lieutenant who was becoming
personal in his remarks.

XLIX
I'never heard it stated araong tbe Confederate authorities that Col. S., had
given any information or intimation of a proposed attempt at escape of his
fellow-prisoners. If it had been so, I would bave known it Onthe contrary
Iki.ew it was not Col. S.\ndei!siin ; but anoiher prisoner who gave all the infor
mation tbat was necessary, especially -in tbe case of a Major (While, I believe,)
who escaped by going wilh the Surgeons, but was brought back from City
Point, Col. S. frequently expressed to me his sentiments, and I believe tbat he
reposed tho fullest confidence in me. He was, as a gentleman, opposed to the
violent voluntary expression of political opinions in his intercourse with the
Confederate officers, but I have seen him frequently draivn out, and have in
duced him to speak myself, but in all his conversations he firmly and ably de
fended bis actions and the cause of his Government I have never heard him
expiess any but Ihe most loyal sentiments, and havo thought, as did other
Confederate officers, that he was the truest Union man tbat we had met In all
of his meetings with several of his old friends Col. S, expressed his firm Union
sentiments, and opposition to the South and Secession,
It would have been impossible for Col, S. to have had any communication
with any ofthe principal officers of Ihe Confederate Government, without my
knowledge, aud I am certain that he had no intimacy with any of Ihem, and
that individually he received no favors from them ; I ara personally cognizant
ef Ihe fact, that permission was refused him to acoept the hospitalities which
were tendered to him by an old friend on Christmas Day, 1863.
I was severely reprimanded by Gen, Winder for my course towards Col. S,
and the other members of the Board witb whom I held some feelings of esteem
and friendship ; a feeling which is not imposisible for even eneraies to entertain,
CoL Sanderson did not receive any favors or privileges other than those which
wer.j incident to his official position or which were accorded to the olher mem
bers of Ihe Board, indeed Col. S. did not receive as many as the otber members
of the Board, because he was at Belle Isle during most of the time. I do not
know that Col, f. ever applied for or received any particular personal favors
ftom others, from myself he never asked and never accepted any, but ho made
many applications in favor of bis companions, and frequently obtained special
priiileges for his fellow-prisoners from myself, such as Ihe delivery of private
box(s, &c., when the distribution was suspended by order of Gen. Winder, and
furnishing those who received none from home, wilh provisions from the con^
fiscated goods.
The dislribution of clothing and other supplies which were sent by the U, S,
and the Sanitary and other Commissions, was under my control, and Col, S.
could not bave appropriated or disposed of any of them without ray consent or
the knowledge ofthe detectives of Gen, Winder, Gen, Winder, no matter how
censurable he may have been in other respects, was too honest to have per-
mitted anything of tho kind, and would certainly have known it
I remember that it was owing entirely to Col, Sanderson's representations
that the b^jxes of Gen'l Neal Dow were delivered at all, and his representations
and refusal to take his own boxes until their boxes were delivered, induced rae
to deliver the boxes of Gen'l Scammon, Col. Streight and Col. Cesnola. Col. S.
on two occasions requested -and obtained the delivery of boxes for Dotv and

streight, when the delivery of boxes -n'as suspended by order of Gin, Winder
I, in those cases, took the responsibility,
I am confident that no member of the Board sought or obtained as many
special favors for his fellow priseners as did Col, Sanderson, or Ihat they did
more to ameliorate their condition, Y'et 1 must express my esteem for every
member— they conducted themselves with great courtesy, and gave me great
assistance, I certify on honor that the above statement is true,
C. McRAE SELPH,
Capt. & A. A. (?., late C. S. A.
Brooklyn, 20th March, 1865,
Brig, Gen'l J, C, Caldwell,
Pres't Military Commission."
General : I have the honor to forward you two original letters wriften by
me, whilst in Libby prison, to my faraily in New-Y'ork,
My object in placing before you these letters is to show :
Ist. The mental difficulties and private griefs I was laboring nnder at the very
moment I was charged with having disclosed our plan of escape,
2d, To prove where I drew all the luxuries and conveniences of my mess
wbich have been charged against me, by my enemies, as coming from rebel
sources. 3d, To establish the date of my visit to the hospital, about which there
appears to be some discrepancy between Capt. Fentress, and Col, Fisher, This
is of importance to show that Neal Dow, who arrived, according to his own
statement at Portland, from Mobile about the latter part of October, could not
have been present at an incident occuring not later than the 2Ist My own
impression is that he did not reach Libby until the 28th or 29lh of October,
4th, To prove that in the midst of my personal griefs and discomforts, I was
still resigned to the action of my Government, and did not fear to say so,
although I knew that every letter was subject to the scrutiny of the Confeder
ates, The friend referred to as having sent me some dainties was a brother hotel-
keeper, who I had known in Baltimore, This was the only instance of such
kindness to me during roy whole stay. Very respectfully, &c.,
JAMES M, SANDERSON,

COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIBBY'.
LiBBT, October 6th, 1S63.
Yesterday the letters per last " flag of truce " were delivered, but none fiom
my darling child, and no news of her dear mother. When Ihe last name is read
and your own is ui-heard, Ihere comes over the heart a chilly coldness, hard to

LI
describe, but bitter to feel; and when you look around and see tho triumphant
and glad smilo of the fortunate, one seems inclined to do or say something very
malicious, or very sentimental. The only thing that tempers my thoughts just
now, however, is the hope that the worst has not, as yet, befallen me, and that
I can still think of your darling mother as being with and near you. And yet
the state in which you describe her is heartrending and painful, bearing with it
the consciousness that your loss is ber gain. May God give her strength to bear
bravely her burden. I see no prospects of an exchange this winter, and, iu
fact, it has been intimated lo us to provide ourselves as soon as possible wilh
every needed requirement for shielding us from tho rigors of the coming season,
I have -ft-ritten, some time ago, for some necessaries, but fear the letter has mis
carried. I require immediately, warm underclothing, undershirts, drawers,
stockings, warm mitts ; fur-lined slippers with stout soles, and if there be any
warm, thick coat among my old clothes, send it along. My fur-cap is in Wash
ington, if not put it in tho box ; also an old-fa,shioned magnifying or "burning
glass," the German are Ibe cheapest, about 2 or 21 inches in diameter; a pint
of alohohol, with an ounce of camphor dissolved in it ; a cake of camphor ice ;
a yery small pair of dividers or compasses ; another pair of linnen drawers—
they are good to sleep iu — and if there be any silk undershirts or drawers
g,raong my stock send them along. By all means send me a oauv.rss hammock,
complete with slings and heavy iron hooks. Send me monthly, with bill, the
articles enumn-ated on the other side. If Leonard wants money to pur
chase anything for me, I have requested him lo draw on your husband. Give
him my love and tell him to honor the drafts, With many kisses to your dear
jnamma, if she still lives, and for yourself, I am as ever.
Your dearest papa,
JAMES M. SANDERSON,
Mrs, J. A, Hewijitt,
82 Wall Street, Xew-York.

5 Vbi. Coffee, ground; 10 lbs. White Sujar; 10 lbs. Brown Sugar; 5 lbs
American Cheese; 10 lbs. Butter in tin cans; l doz. Currant Jelley in tumb- '
lers; I doz, cans Condensed Milk; 1 doz, cans assorted Meats; 1 doz, cans
assorted Vegetables; I bottle Worcestershire Sauce; 1 bottle English Mustard;
I jar of Preserves ; 1, doz. Lemons ; 1 quire Letter Paper and Envelopes ; J doz.
Essences for Cooking; 6 doz. box, Parafine Candles and Matches; J doz. best
Syrup or Maple Molasses ; Bed Bug Killer ; 3 Soup Plates, 1 dinner Plate, Iron
stone or China ; 2 Table Cloths, 4 ft square.

" LiBBT," 14 Oct., 1863.

Mn Dear Children: , ^ .,
Your joint note of Sept 27 and Oct I, reached rae last week. I am greatly
delighted to know my letter reached your dear maaima i^n time. M/ P-^t
hearing of your marriage was of course due to ray forbodings lor I'e ''e-lth.
for had she been well, and such an incident occur, of course. I should have

LII
known that some proper reason influenced it, I dont remember of her ever
being wrong in an event of such magnitude, A quarter of a century has
elapsed since our wedding day, and a most momentous era it has been not only
for us, but for the worid at large. Rumors are constantly reaching us as to
exchanges, and I have been constantly buoyed up with the hopes of release in
time to see her before her release from this earth and its pain, but I have now
ceased to hope, and await with quiet resignation the decision of my Government
quite satisfied to remain, if, by so doing, I fill the raeasure of my tiuty. Tbe
authorities here have lately greatly ameliorated our condition and improve 1 our
accomodations, especially the hospital deparfment. To-day I have been tbe
recipient of some dainties from an old friend of years gone by, and am anxious
to reiurn it, and know of nothing better than a couple of pounds of iea, which
costs here something fabulous. Have it put in the first box. I began to fear my
letters were destroyed, but your announcem?nt of the receipt of ihos-. of 7 aud
Sth Sept., reassure me, and I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of the bo.x,
having just reached the end of my coffee, sugar, milk and everything in fact,
but my tea. For three days past I bave been quite ill, but am now quite re
covered. Don't forget the hammock, subjoined is a list of a few additional
articles 1 require. With ray deepest love, and constant prayers, as ever,
Y'our Father, J. M. S.A.NDERSON.
1 Bottle Velpeaii's remedy for rheumatism; 1 Paper Tacks; 1 Small Hammer
or Hatchet ; 2 Camel's Hair Brushes ; 5 lb. Italian Macaroni ; Paper of Court-
Plaster ; A small Spring Balance ; Camphor Ice,

October 20, in pencil,
I have just lecovered fiora another severe cold,'which sent me lo fhehospital,
whenc; I h.ive just raturncl. I a-n anxiouily a-vaiting a letter or a box,
especially Ihe hammock. J. Jl. g.
Send me some Musk, let it be strong,— lice dont like it.

October 23.
Your letlers of Oct 6 and y. just received, but qo b ix as yet greatly to ray
discomfort '\V"iU write again shortly. J. i\r, S.

Lilt

OFFICERS ADDliESSED,
FROi[ WIIO.M NO REPLY ILVii BEEN RECEIVED.

Lt Col, S. M, Archer, I7ih Iowa— 2 letters.
Col, W. B. McGreei-y, 21st Michigan-^2 letters,
Lt Col. H. B, Hunter, 123d Ohio— declines ansivering,
Lt Col. J. F, Boyd, Q. M. .Vrmy of the Ohio— 2 letters.
Lt Col, A. Von Schrader, A. 1. G,, I4th Army Corp — declines answering,
Lt, Col. A. F, Von Milzel, 74th Pennsylvania -1 letter.
Capt. F, E. Wentworth, C. S.— reply miscarried.
Lt W. C. Robinson, 34tb Illinois — declines answering.
Brig, Gen. E. P. Scammon — I letter.
Lt Col. E. L. Hays, lOOth Ohio- 1 letter.
LtW. F. Randolph, Sth United States Artillery— 3 letters.
Col. W, F, Wilson, I23d Ohio— I letter,
Li Col. J. P. Spofford, 97th New- York— 3 letters.
Capt. Thomas Huggin.s, 59th New- York — 3 letters.
Lt. Col. A. P, Henry, I5tb Kentucky— 1 letter.
Lt Col, W, B. Neeper, 57th Pennsylvania — 3 letters.
Major S. Mclrvin, 2d New-York Cavalry — 1 letter.
Col. C. H. Cariton, S9th Ohio— 1 letter,
Capt J. H, Whelan, Ass't Adj't Gen'l,— 2 letters.
Major W, D. Morton, 14th New- Y'ork Cavalry— reply miscarried.
Capt. Thomas Cummings, 19tli U. S. Inf.— 2 lettersi
Capt W. H. Douglas, C, S.— 2 letters.
Major E, M, Pope, Ass't Insp. Gen'l— 3 letters.
Capt Fred, Barton— 2 letters,
Lieut Ira Tyler, 5th Maryland— 1 letter.
Lieut, John Fgan — 1 letter.
Lieut. Butler Coles, 2d N. Y, Cav.— I letter,
Isaac Johnson, Eng,, U. S. Navy— I letter.
Lieut A, W, Sprague, 24tb Michigan— I letter,
Capt, F, Memmert, 5th Maryland— 2 letters.
Major Josiah Hall, 1st Vermont Cav.— 1 letter.
Capt Czsbad, Aid-de-Camp— 1 letter,
Lt Col, J, N. Walker, 73d Indiana— I letter.
Lieut. M, Kupp, 167th Pennsylvania— 1 letter,
Capt W, M, Cookrum, 42d Indiana— I letter.
Adj't M, R. Small, 6th Maryland— I letter.
Lieut. S. S. Holbrook, 15th U, S. Inf.— 1 letter,
Oapt John Daly, lOitb M^ew-Tork— 1 letter.

LIT

John Y, Goodrich, I3th Mass,— 4 letters.
Capt, J, C. Meagher, 40th Ohio— I letter.
Capt J. A. Johnson, lllh Kentucky — 1 letter.
Capt Thomas Reed, Ist. Virginia Inf, — 2 letters.
Capt. Horace Noble, 9th Maryland — 1 letter.
Chaplain 0. Taylor. Pontiac, Michigan — 1 letter.
Lt. Wm. Blanchard, 2d U. S. Cavalry— 1 letter.
Rev. H. W. Bellows, President Sanitary Commission — declines answering
Lt C. G, A, Peterson, 1st Rhode Island Cavalry — declines answering,
Capt, W, M. Beeman, 1st Vermont Cavalry — I letter.
Chaplain McCabe, Christain Commission — 1 letter.
Lt Geo. A. Deering, 16lh Maine — 1 letter.
Private W. W, Spragne, 37 Essex St, Boston — I letter.
Lt. H. S. Platt. Sth .Maryland- 1 letter.
Lt Col. G. Von Helrarick, 21st Missouri Cavalry— I letter.
Major Beers, — 1 letter.
Col. G. C. Joslin, 1.5ih Massachusetts — 1 letter,
Lt. Gorgas, 90th Pennsylvania — I letter,
Lt. S. G. Davis. Ist Massachusetts Cavalry — 2 letters.