Gust. Heinrichs to J. H. Baker, January 23, 1865

Col. J. H. BAKER, Provost-Marshal-General, Department of the Missouri :

SIR: I have the honor to submit the following inspection report of the condition of the prisoners of war at this station for the week ending January 23, 1865:

Conduct—nothing to complain of. Cleanliness—moderate. Clothing—sufficient, with a few exceptions. Bedding—good and comfortable. State of quarters—neat and clean. State of mess-houses—-:s clean as can be made. State of kitchen—about the same. Food, quality of—good. Food, quantity of—according to regulations. Water—plenty. Sinks—clean, but on account of the cold weather not very comfortable. Police of grounds—very good. Drainage— hardly sufficient for a long term of cold weather. Police of hospital— very good. Attendance of sick—as good as can be desired. Hospital diet—in charge of the medical department; according to the requirements of the patients. General health of prisoners—–no noticeable change. Vigilance of guard—tolerably strict.

Remarks and suggestions.—Although the expenditures recommended in my report of December 20 have not been resorted to, by means of minor repairs in the way of whitewashing, plastering, &c., Gratiot Street Prison will, in my opinion, as far as cleanliness and general management is concerned, favorably compare with any prison in the West, taking into consideration the many disadvantages this prison, as a prison, is possessed of. I cannot refrain again expressing my regret at the sums swallowed by this prison for constant repairs, and hoping ultimately to learn a decision on my recommendation for a new prison.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,