Agent of Exchange to Richardson, January 21, 1865

Respectfully forwarded to the Commissioner for Exchange of Prisoners. The arrangements made by General Washburn and my own authority to act are suspended by the order of Lieutenant-General Grant. As the prisoners referred to belong to two different armies the decision should be made by the general commissioner for exchange of prisoners. In this case it is recommended that the exchange be made. t E. D. R. S. CANBY, Major-General, Commanding.

Richmond, January 21, 1865.

SIR: I have made an agreement with the Federal authorities for the release and delivery on both sides of all prisoners of war who have been or now are held either in close confinement or in irons. The list of those so held by the enemy embraces more than fifty, while ours does not reach fifteen. Those whom we hold are mostly confined here and at Salisbury. The order for release of our men was issued about a week ago, and I am satisfied they are now held as other prisoners of war. I willtherefore be much obliged to you if you will direct General Gardner to release immediately such Federal prisoners as are now held in close confinement or irons.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,