I am a fair writer, and am besieged by men to write letters
to the rebel officers praying for release, and I do it, knowing it will do no
good, but to please the sufferers. Some of these letters are directed to Capt
Wirtz, some to Gen. Winder, Jeff Davis and other officers. As dictated by them
some would bring tears from a stone. One goes on to say he has been a prisoner
of war over a year, has a wife and three children destitute, how much he thinks
of them, is dying with disease, etc., etc. All kinds of stories are narrated,
and handed to the first rebel who comes within reach. Of course they are never
heard from. It's pitiful to see the poor wretches who think their letters will
get them out, watch the gate from day to day, and always disappointed. Some one
has much to answer for.
SOURCE: John L. Ransom, Andersonville Diary, p.
69
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