Jos. R. Smith to William A. Hammond, April 23, 1863

Brig. Gen. W. A. HAMMOND, Surgeon-General, U. S. Army:

GENERAL: To your inquiries in reference to the publication of a report of Surgeon Letterman, and my knowledge of the same, I have the honor to reply that about a week since the report referred to was received at this office, and read by me as an ordinary sanitary report. Soon after its reception, a newspaper reporter came into the office, and to his entreaties for news as to the health of the army, I let him copy the letter, directing him, however, to omit the address and signature, and any marks which might denote the official, and thus attach to it importance or credibility. This it seems he did, adding, however, on his own account a remark which rendered my precaution vain. That I did not notice the fact that the numbers given were susceptible of further calculation, was an oversight that I cannot now understand or explain. In this connection it may be stated the only newspaper reporters who visit this office belong to the New York Times and the Washington Morning Chronicle, both of which I believe to be loyal papers, and incapable of using to the public injury information that they might obtain; and I may also call your attention to the fact known to you personally that the greatest circumspection has been exercised at this office and by me personally to permit [prevent] the unauthorized publication of any articles whatever, trifling or important.

I did not see the printed article in the Chronicle until to-day. Several days since, learning that such an article was published, and fearing that others might be accused of its publication for unworthy motives, I wrote to the medical director of General Hooker’s army, indicating the manner in which publicity was given the report, and desiring him to assure General Hooker of my deep regret and future caution. I trust, sir, that my character and service will satisfy you not only how deeply – I regret the oversight which has been committed, but that renewed prudence for the future will prevent the possible occurrence of such another inadvertence.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,