Ambrose E. Burnside to George Washington, August 6, 1864

August 6, 1864. THE SECRETARY OF WAR OF THE UNITED STATES, Washington :

Whilst I have the greatest respect for the officers composing the court ordered by Special Orders, War Department, No. 258, to examine into the affair of the 30th instant [ultimo], I beg to submit that it should be composed of officers who do not belong to this army.

Whilst I am most willing and feel it to be my due to have the fullest investigation, I should not under the circumstances demand one, nor seek to press the matter to an issue in any degree adverse to the general commanding the Army of the Potomac. Iam ready to await the verdict of time. But if an investigation is to be had, I feel that I have a right to ask that it be made by officers not in this army and not selected by General Meade. All of the officers constituting the court held com-

General Meade has also preferred charges against me upon which I desire to be tried. As the court convenes on Monday, the 8th instant, I

respectfully