Major-General Benjamin F. Butler to Colonel Robert Ould, October 9, 1864

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE JAMES,        

In the field, October 9, 1864.

SIR: An attempt was made this morning by private Roucher, company B, 5th Pennsylvania cavalry, to commit a rape on the persons of Mrs. Minsen and Mrs. Anderson, living on the Darbytown road.

On the outrage being discovered he broke through our picket line and fled for your lines. Our soldiers chased him, but were unable to overtake him. I have therefore the honor to request that you will return him, that I may inflict the punishment that his dastardly offence merits.

I cannot be responsible for the good conduct of my soldiers if they are to find protection from punishment by entering your lines.

I have the honor to be your obedient servant, &c.,

BENJ. F. BUTLER,        

Major General and Com'r for Exchange.

Hon. ROBERT OULD,
        Commissioner for Exchange, Richmond, Va.

SOURCE: United States House of Representatives, Executive Documents Printed by Order of the House of Representatives During the Second Session of the Thirty-Eighth Congress, 1864-’65, Vol. 8, Ex. Doc. No. 32, p. 165