| Headquarters Army of Northern Virginia |
| April 17, 1863 |
| |
| Hon. James A. Seddon |
| Secretary of War |
| |
| Sir, |
| I am informed by the chief commissary of
the army that he has been unable to issue the sugar ration to the
troops for the last ten days. Their ration, consequently, consists
of one-fourth pound of bacon, 18 ounces of flour, 10 pounds of rice
to each 100 men about every third day, with some few peas and a
small amount of dried fruit occasionally, as they can be obtained.
This may give existence to the troops while idle, but will certainly
cause them to break down when called upon for exertion. |
| I also learn that there have been 100
carloads of sugar and other supplies for this army detained at
Raleigh & Gaston for more than a fortnight. |
| I beg that you will take the necessary
measures to cause the supplies to be forwarded promptly and
regularly. The time has come when it is necessary the men should
have full rations. Their health is failing, scurvy and typhus fever
are making their appearance, and it is necessary for them to have a
more generous diet. |
| I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant |
| R. E. Lee |
| General |
|