Adjt. And Insp. General's Office to John C. Breckinridge, March 17, 1868

Hon. JOHN C. BRECKINRIDGE, Secretary of War, Richmond, Va.:

DEAR Sir: I have been informed that certain communications, of the utmost importance to the cause of the Confederacy, have been submitted to Congress in secret session by the President and the several heads of departments. I have also been informed that their nature was such as to render it entirely proper, and indeed rightful, that I, as Governor of North Carolina, should be informed of their contents. I have, therefore, the honor to most respectfully request a copy of said papers, if not deemed inconsistent with the public good, and have sent the bearer, Maj. James H. Foote, assistant adjutantgeneral of North Carolina, a discreet and loyal gentleman, to receive them, should you deem it advisable to comply with my request. I am, sir,

very respectfully and truly, your obedient servant,