W. H. Taylor to Mr. BENJAMIN, December 7, 1861

December 7, 1861.

No. 4 } Coosawhatchie, S. O., December 7, 1861.

I. The recent inspection by the medical director of the department discloses the existence of much sickness among the troops. No special means can be devised for banishing measles, but catarrhal affections, pneumonia, and rheumatic complaints are produced, in many instances, by bad selection of sites for camps. They should always be located on high and dry ground, exposed to the healthful influences of the sun. It is believed that typhoid disease is developed by the close air of tents, the want of personal cleanliness, the neglect of proper police, and the prolonged occupation of the same ground of encampment. Commanding officers are particularly desired to establish proper sinks, remote from the tents, and to cause the daily removal of all garbage and offal. The tents must be frequently emptied and ventilated and the bedding thoroughly aired and cleansed. A proper attention to these measures on the part of commanding and medical officers will do much to mitigate disease and promote the health and efficiency of the men.

II. The commanding general finds it necessary to urge upon tho off940 COASTS OF 8. C., GA., AND MIDDLE AND EAST FLA. [Cuar. XV.

cers in every department the practice of strict economy in all purchases and expenditures. Commanding officers will see that the regulations in this respect are rigidly observed, and that the supplies for the Army are properly cared for and used. The good of the service and the comfort of the troops demand strict attention to this subject.

By order of General Lee:

Assistant Adjutant-General.
CoLumBIA, December 8, 1861.
Hon. Mr. BENJAMIN,
Secretary of War:
I am greatly obliged to you for the regiments promised and the flying
artillery companies. I began to fear you had forgotten us. I start
twenty companies with our State arms in the morning and more coming