Marsena R. Patrick to Henry M. Naglee, August 10, 1863

Washington, D. C., August 10, 1863—9.30 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: General Brooks, at Pittsburgh, is prepared to re-enforce General Scammon whenever necessary. H. W. HALLECK,

WaR DEPARTMENT, Washington, August 10, 1863—10 a. m. General KELLEY,

West Virginia: General Brooks will be able to re-enforce General Scammon. Should it be necessary, make a requisition on General Brooks. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.

OFFICE PRovost-MARSHAL-GENERAL,

; August 10, 1863.. Maj. Gen. GEORGE G. MEADE,

Commanding Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: In answer to the inquiry as to how newspapers are now supplied to the Army of the Potomac, I have the honor to report that, in accordance with the provisions of the circular of MajorGeneral Hooker, of the 2d of June last, proposals for furnishing newspapers to the Army were received until 12 o’clock m. on the

12th of June, 1863, when these bids were opened in presence of the council of administration.

Mr. John M. Lamb was found to have offered the highest sum ($53.20 per day) for the privilege of supplying the army with newspapers and periodicals. He was seporaininty sent for, and agreed to the following conditions, viz: That he would supply all papers called for within the army by the various commands composing it, ordered by commanders, or the news agents belonging to the corps, divisions, and brigades, respectively, at 5 cents per copy, periodicals and illustrated papers excepted.

The difficulties attendant upon the supply of the army during its movements necessarily interfered with all plans, but the necessit of making money enough to meet the monthly payment to the medical director has proved a sufficient stimulus to Mr. Lamb to bring his papers into camp whenever it has been possible.

Thus far, the system has worked far better than any that has preceeded it, the agents being obliged to furnish the papers called for and at fixed rates. The only complaints made to me are by newspaper agents and proprietors, who, by canvassing the troops themselves, have been able, heretofore, to make large individual profits.

At present, officers who desire the latest news by telegraph take Washington and Baltimore papers, while the rank and file, who want more local news, take Philadelphia or New York papers, according to the States from which they hail. The newsboys inform me that they make the most money on the: Baltimore Clipper and Washington Chronicle.

All of which is

respectfully submitted.