James A. Seddon to Robert E. Lee, February 20, 1864

Richmond, February 20, 1864.

General R. E. LEn,

GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 16th [15th] instant,* mentioning the measures you deem it expedient to adopt for the return of men who may be unnecessarily absent from your army. I should be gratified to have such examination made as you suggest to determine how far detailed or disabled

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men may be returned. The commission named by you will receive the sanction of the Department, and its authority will be given to the measures you propose. The Adjutant-General will be directed to issue the proper orders.

Your suggestion, made by letter of the same date, to break up certain of the smaller hospitals in Virginia has been referred to the Surgeon-General for consideration and report. I am inclined to think, from my personal knowledge, that the hospital at Huguenot Springs, from its vicinity to Richmond and the advantages it affords, had best be continued. In respect to the others, my impression inclines to coneur with you.

Very respectfully,

Secretary of War.