NA, QM 4/19A/1864

Quarter Master General's Department
Richmond, April 19th 1864
  
Major Harris
Montgomery, Ala.
 
Maj. Hillyer QrMr
Selma, Ala.
 
Sir,
   The attention of this Department has been called to the very distressing need of corn for the support of the poor in upper Georgia; & the efforts of the State of Geo. to supply this want, from purchases made in Alabama. Appeal has also been made to me for assistance in getting this corn forward.
   The urgent need in the case is seen & felt, & the appeal is strengthened by the fact that in many cases the supplies of these families have been consumed by our own troops, whilst their protectors are away in the field & unable to afford them any help. These circumstances impose upon us the duty of supplying our armies in the field, in bringing its supplies of food to the relief to these families. Government transportation of course cannot be furnished, as it would be a violation of good faith to the R. Roads; but you will permit, & as far as possible facilitate the transportation for the State of Geo. of the corn purchased by her, to the extent of five car loads per day. If in your judgment greater facilities can be granted without injuriously retarding the shipment to the army, you will report the facts to me for further instructions & similar is requested, if you find the privilege granted seriously affecting the supplies for the armies.
A. R. Lawton, Q. M. Genl.

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