William T. Sherman to E. 8. Plummer Ani Others, July 23, 1862

Dr. E. 8. PLUMMER ANI OTHERS, Physicians in Memphis, Signers to a Petition:

GENTLEMEN: I have this moment received your communication, and

assure you that it grieves my heart thus to be the instrument of adding to the seeming cruelty and hardship of this unnatural war. _ On my arrival here found my predecessor (General Hovey) had issued an order permitting the departure South of all persons subject to the conscript law of the Southern Confederacy. Many applications have been made to me to modify this order, but I regarded it as a condition-precedent by which 1 was bound in honor, and therefore I have made no changes or modifications, nor shall I determine what action I shall adopt in relation to persons unfriendly to our cause who remain after the time limited by General Hovey’s order has expired. It is now sunset, and all who have not availed themselves of Genéral Hovey’s authority and who remain in Memphis are supposed to be loyal and true men.

I will only say that I cannot allow the personal convenience of even a large class of ladies to influence me in my determination to make Memphis a sate place of operations for an army, and all people who are unfriendly should forthwith prepare to depart in such direction as I may hereafter indicate.

Be oes ah ee to ee made prisoners of war, but they should within the lines of an army which i The situation would be too delicate. : “has belies I am,

with great respect, your obedient servant,