Joseph Hooker to H. W. HALueck, January 30, 1863
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALueck, Commander-in-Chief :
By General Orders, No. 61, War Department, 1862, leaves of absence cannot be granted in the field, except to prevent death or permanent disability. This rule never has been strictly regarded in this army. It is understood that the Adjutant-General gave a construction of this order to General Burnside that permitted leaves for a short period. The order organizing grand divisions gave to the grand division commanders the authority usually exercised by the general commanding the army. Grand division commanders had no uniformity of action in the premises, and I have thought proper to issue the inclosed order, I believe by it much desertion will be stopped, and a more contented feeling pervade the army. At the same time I desire, in view of existing orders, that it should receive proper sanction.
Very respectfully, &c.,
Major-General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
GENERAL eat Hpqrs. ARMY OF THE Potomac,
The following rules will govern officers empowered to grant leaves
of absence:
I. No leave will exceed fifteen days.