Ira R. Foster to February 8, 1864, 1864-01-80
QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL’S OFFICE,
Atlanta, January 80, 1864.
Honorable SECRETARY OF WAR, Richmond, Va.:
Sir: Pardon the liberty taken in inclosing you a letter addressed by me to Brig. Gen. W. M. Gardner, commanding Middle Florida, indorsed and approved by Maj. Gen. Howell Cobb on the 7th instant. * The sufferings of Georgians in C. S. service, through lack of clothing and the dearth of raw material in this State, caused by the extensive operations of the Confederate Government, have made it absolutely necessary for us to go outside the limits of Georgia and make purchases where the material could be found. Already this department has issued to destitute Georgians, C. S. Army, about 15,000 suits of clothing and about 30,000 pair of shoes. These, as the generals will testify, have added much to the valor and comfort of the troops. With the exception of the refusal of the commander of the District of Middle Florida, we have met no opposition in making purchases in other States for this object. The refusal of this commander I also respectfully inclose,* begging you, if consistent with the public service, that you will set aside this decision and grant me permission to make such purchases and shipments from the District of Middle Florida. Ihave no desire to come in conflict with purchasing agents of the Confederate Government. I only ask that my agents be placed on a like footing. Such authority granted to this department would place it in a condition to relieve the necessities of Georgia soldiers when the Confederate Government should be unable to do so. The favor is sought in the name of the gallant but destitute Georgians in Confederate service, whose wants will be supplied when the Government is short of supplies, if granted. The letter to Brig. Gen. W. M. Gardner, indorsed by Maj. Gen. Howell Cobb, and the refusal of the colonel commanding the District of Middle Florida, is therefore respectfully inclosed. Begging an early response,
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Quartermaster-General of Georgia.
[First indorsement.]
FEBRUARY 8, 1864.
QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL:
Do you advise compliance with the requests of this letter? Would
it not impede your operations ?
ALS