Annual Reports (Volume 2)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1866 edition. Excerpt: ...captured at Vicksburg and Port Hndson. 2. The status of colored prisoners. As to theirsi, no arrangement for tho exchange of prisoners will be acceded to that does not fully recognize the validity of these paroles, and provide for the release to us of a sufficient number of prisoners now held by the confederate anthorities to cancel any halance that may be in our favor by virtue of these paroles. Until there are released to us an equal number of officers and men as were captured and paroled at Vicksburg and Port Hndson, not another confederate prisoner of war will be paroled or exchanged. As to the second, no distinction whatever will be made in the exchange between white and colored prisoners; the only question being, were they, at the time of their capture, in the military service of the United States. If they were, the same terms as to treatment while prisoners, and conditions of release and exchange, must be exacted and had in the case of colored soldiers as in tbe case of white soldiers. Non-acquiescence by the confederate anthorities in both or either of these propositions will be regarded as a refusal on their part to agree to the further exchange of prisoners, and will be Go treated by us. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant General. Major General B. F. BUTLER, Com'dg Deft, of Virginia and North Carolina, Fortress Monroe, Virginia. Telegram.--Sent 3.45 p. m. War Department, Washington City, May 4, 1964. Major General Butler, Fortress Monroe:, The commissary of prisoners is preparing a declaration of exchange, which will be made at once. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. True copy: A. E. H. JOHNSON. Received cipher 7 a. m., August 22. Unted States Military Telegraph, War Department, City...