Dudley W. Strickland to E. W. Situ, August 13, 1863

Assistant Adjutant-General :

Magor: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding, that I arrived here and assumed command Sunday, the 2d of August, 1863. Up to this time, good order and quiet have prevailed.

In the main, I have followed the course marked out by my predecessor, Colonel Hawley, and have had but little difficulty, save in the issuing of rations to destitute citizens and in making the proper distinctions in granting permits to persons desirous of purchasing. In the case of those destitute, I had left me no complete Hat of a late date, it being omitted in the hurry of their departure, but, with the copious notes left in my possession by Colonel Hawley, I issued rations with the greatest discretion. In regard to those purchasing, the instructions were discretionary. I learn, upon inquiry, that at this time there are no stores in the town where supplies can be purchased. This makes it necessary for me to grant atte more indulgence. Some of the storekeepers who have formerly had supplies of this nature are expecting more soon. Another reason for this excess in issue is that the season for vegetables has passed. In September, those owning plots will commence planting.

On last Thursday, there appeared at the outer pickets, with a flag of truce, a young man—Mr. C. Leonardi—his sister, and cousin. He desired the eee of our flag, as a sergeant and some men were in search of him for the purpose of conscription, agreeably to the late proclamation of Jefferson Davis. He had been in the rebel service at the opening of the war, but had obtained his discharge, on the ground of being a minor. It was for the reason of his being in the service that his mother, sister, and cousin were placed outside of our lines, soI am informed. As far as the young man was concerned, it seemed to me perfectly proper to admit him, as it has been the custom of the Government at all times to grant protection under similar circumstances. The condition of the family where they were obliged to locate themselves has been represented to me:by some of the oldest citizens, in whose statements Colonel Hawley told me I could rely, as being most miserable. In fact, they state themselves that they were almost destitute, being unable to obtain but very few of the necessaries of life. The mother is quite an elderly lady and an invalid. Our surgeon, who visited her, reports that the case is one requiring immediate care and attention. This lady is the

mother-in-law of Lieutenant Tardy, U. 8. Engineer sal were admitted. a ne Ra Oe ae

Two other parties have applied for admission, but their reasons not being considered sufficient, they were refused. In reference to these cases, I beg leave to state, in the absence of instructions, that I shall exercise the utmost diligence and permit none to enter save tor reasons of the most imperative nature.

The bishop of Savannah and Florida, accompanied by his priest, have been admitted for four days. It has been the custom of my predecessors to admit them for a like period. Leonardi is confined in the provost guard house. What disposition shall be made of him ?

Being very short of non-commissioned officers, I respectfully reee that Sergt. William E. D’Arcy, Company F, at present doing

uty with the Billinghurst Battery, be relieved and returned to his regiment.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,