"Copy"

 

Hd Qts E. Tenn Cav Div

Hickory Mt Gap Road

April 28^th 1865

 

Genl

            I could not learn any of the particulars of your capture and that of Col Palmer and other officers and men at Asheville on the 26^th and as my troops at that point were obligated to leave immediately, there was no time to make the necessary investigation. I therefore ordered your release on a parole of honor to report to Genl Stoneman. On further reflection I have come to the conclusion that our men should have given you under all the circumstances, notice of the termination of the armistice, and that in honor we can not profit by any failure to give this notice. You will therefore please inform all the Officers and Soldiers paroled by Genl Brown last evening and this morning under the circustances above referred to that the parole they have given (which was by my order) is not binding and that they may consider that it was never given. Regretting that your [?] Officers  & yourself should have been placed in this delicate situation

                                                                                   

I remain Genl

Very Respectfully

Your Obt Sert

(signed) W^m J. Palmer

Brev Brig Genl

Comdg

 

Brig Genl                                                                                

J. G. Martin                                                                                         

Asheville                                                                     

                                                                                                            

Official                                                                                                           

A.H.Polk

A.A.G.

SOURCES