Civil War and Reconstruction Governors of Alabama

380 Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 5th, 1863. Col. John T. Morgan, Commandant, &C. Talladega, Ala. Sir; I have the honor to enclose, to you, lists of the members of the Fire-Companies of this City, whom the Mayor certifies to be necessary for its Safety. §. Under similar certificate, the Secretary of War exempted, at my request, members of the Fire Department, at Mobile. A reference to the Correspondence (a copy of which is enclosed) will show that the members of these Companies - certified by the mayor, have been, hitherto, exempted from enrollment, and are, now, for the first time, considered as included by the enrolling officer here, among those liable to be enrolled. §. If within your Scope of Authority, you will please give such orders, as will relieve them from this liability. If, however, you decline to do so, you will oblige, by returning the lists, & instructing the officer here to suspend the enrollment, until I can obtain a hearing from the Secretary of War. But as the Secretary of War has already exempted them, I hope it may not be necessary to refer the matter again to his office. Very Respectfully, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 5th, 1863. Col. L. C. Garland, Comm'^t Corps Cadets, Univ. Ala. Sir; Mr. L. M. Whetstone, of Autauga Co. having made application for the admission of his Son - W. D. Whetstone - into the University of Alabama; and his age - 21 Years - under present orders, rendering him ineligible - in consideration of the fact, that, at the commencememt of the war, he had intended that this Son should enter, & graduate at the university, which intention was frustrated by the Volunteering of this Son, who, with four brothers, entered the Confederate Service; & two of them having been killed - one at Seven-Pines, & the other at Sharpsburg - & W. D. Whetstone not being liable to Military Service, by reason of having procured a substitute; I deem that these facts, & the patriotic sacrifices of Mr Whetstone, consitute this an exceptional case. And you are authorized to enter the name of Mr W. D. Whetstone, among the list of applicants for admision, at the next Term of the University, without the restrictions of the General order, prescribing age &C. Very Respectfully; (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 5th, 1863. Col. P. Hamilton, A. D. C. Mobile. Sir; I, herewith hand you accounts enclosed to this order, by the Jailer of Mobile. I, also, enclose printed copy of a circular order, issued & mailed from this office, to the Sheriffs & Jailers of the State, under date of 21st Nov 1862, directing an immediate return of runaway Slaves (reported to them) to the Public Works, whence they had escaped. The accounts presented have not been made-out, in pursuance of this Circular Order, & I send them to you, to enquire into the Cause, and the propriety of the - seemingly - heavy charges, presented against the State. Upon examination, you will report them back to this office. Resp'^y, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 5th, 1863. Capt. J. A. Winbourne, Jackson, Miss. Owing, I suppose, to the irregularity of the mails, your letter, of 28th, is the only one which has reached me, since the one of which you have been advised. Present circumstanes, & the condition of things, on the Missⁱ River, & West of it, indicate that any further prosecution of your Agency would be unadvisable; but as I am informed that you expect to remain awhile with the army, it is to be hoped that your Agency may be resumed, at some future day, with good prospects of success.

I thank you for the promptness & activity you have shown, while so engaged, and hope it may be convenient & agreeable to you, to furnish me, occasionally, with your view of Current Events, while you are with the army. Very Resp'^y, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

381 Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 5th, 1863. J. R. John, Esq^r. Mayor of Selma. Sir; I have the pleasure to acknowledge rec'^t of your favour of 2^d inst. and, fully, indorse all you say, as to the importance of organization for Home-defense, throughout the State. Voluntary companies of our Citizens, not in the Confederate service, are now the only means left us. The Legislature failed, at its last Session, to re-organize the Militia of the State, or to pass any Military Bill, whatever. After its adjournment, & on the 22^d of Dec^r last, I published an appeal to the People of the State - a copy of which, I herewith, enclose you - urging the formation of Volunteer Companies of State-Guards, for Home-defense. I feared as the tide of War might approach our borders, that the enemy would Sally-forth, in hostile raids, upon our cities, towns, foundries, & public shops, & interrupt our lines of communication. The State of Alabama has, from the beginning of the War, with an unselfish devotion, not excelled - if equall^e^d - by any other State, in the Confederacy, given all her available means - of Men, & Money, & munitions of War, in aid of the Confederate Cause. The Military Authorities of the Confederacy, have used these means, beyond the limits of the State, when they, doubtless, believed they could best promote the general good, but this disposition of them, has left the State exposed, in it weakness, & we seem to be almost abandoned to ourselves. It is but proper to advise you, that the records of this Department show that Solemn protest has been made to the Confederate Authorities, against the withdrawal of many troops from the State, but without avail. It is, however, the point of manly patriotism, now, to gather what remaining Military Strength, we may have left us, and prepare for any emergency which may occur. As this request is to be attained, by the voluntary action of the people, it is plain that if they refuse or neglect organization, it will be at their own peril. I am gratified that Col Byrd has raised a fine Company, in Selma. Two have been formed here, & another under way. I hope they may increase, in numbers, all over the State. We have ammunition, within our borders, [?] in our borders, in abundance - though deficient in approved arms. There are, however, a great many of the best private arms, yet remaining in the hands of the people, & they ought to use them, or permit others to use them, in the common defense.

Col. Jemison is here, on his way, home from Richmond, and I am to have a full interview with him, tomorrow, in relation to the best plans to effect organization, at & above Tuscaloosa, & to secure Couriers & Scouts, to express any important intelligence. I will request him to confer with you, as he passes through your city. As Maj. Chambliss is the Commander of the Military Post at Selma, it will be proper to order any Companies of State-Guards, in that Vicinity, to report for duty, to him. Such an order, I telegraphed, yesterday, to Col. Byrd.

Desiring to secure the protection of the State, by every available means, & to do whatever may be in my power, to give Security to the city of Selma, I shall be pleased to hear any Suggestions, or information which you may be pleased to make. Resp'^y, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 5th, 1863. Hon. James A. Seddon, Secretary of War, Richmond. Sir; I telegraphed you, to-day, that the Citizens of Mobile desired the assignment of Brig. Gen. Mackall to the Command in that City, in lieu of Maj. Gen. Buckner, ordered elsewhere, & urged his appointment, according to their request. I am advised that a memorial has been forwarded to your Department, in support of this application. May I not hope that the organization of the army in Tennesee can be, advantageously, made, without the presence of Gen Mackall, & that he can be spared to return to Mobile? I need not remind you of the vital importance of assigning to such a high position of responsiblity, an officer of skill & energy, whose qualification will command the respect & confidence of the Citizens of Mobile, & the authorities of Alabama. We are not satisfied with the present exposed condition of Mobile, & shall continue our remonstrances & protests, until some action is taken by the Confederate Government, to give security & protection to our Sea-port City, and the Gate-way to the Capital of our State. Hoping for a favorable response at an early day, I am, Resp'^y, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter. Gov^r of Ala.

382 Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 6th, 1863. P. Hamilton, Esq^r Ch'ⁿ Ex^e Comm. Mobile. Sir; Your letters of 30th Ult. & 1st inst. were duly rec'^d I telegraphed the Sec^y of War, expressing my earnest hope, that, as Mobile had been depleted by a removal of our troops, her citizens might be gratified by an assignment of Brig. Gen. Mackall to that command. I concur, fully with you in your expressions of disapproval, as to the manner in which Mobile has been treated by the WarDepartment. Alabama has been unselfish and constant in her devotion to the Confederate Cause - & no State has surpassed her, & yet She is made a mere dependency, & her forces, as fast as organized, are taken from within her borders, & She is left to her own resources - now nearly exhausted - for her Security & protection. The removal of Troops from Mobile has, heretofore been made, by me the occasion of remonstrance & complaint, to the Confederate Government, and have now, again addressed a Communication - through the War-Department - directly to the President, calling his attention to our grievances, and, urgently, insisting upon a more liberal policy towards Mobile. Your letter of the 1st is so full, and your Statement as to the situation of affairs is so clear & impressive, that I have taken the liberty of enclosing a copy of it to the President, which, I hope, may receive your approval.

I have, also, written to the Secretary of War, urging the appointment of Brig. Gen. M^cCall, & his immediate assignment to the Command at Mobile. Resp'^y, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter, Gov^r of Ala.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 6th, 1863. Jefferson Davis, President C. S. A. Richmond. Sir; I have the honor of communicating, herewith, a copy of a letter, rec^d at this office, from P. Hamiton, Esq^r - Chairman of Executive Committee, of the Committee of Safety for the City of Mobile, under date of the 1st inst. which earnestly protests against the depletion of that city, of organized Troops, for its defense, by a removal of them to other localities. It is my duty to inform you that the Military arrangements, which have been, heretofore, made, for the protection of that City - so important to this State and the Confederacy, have been regarded, by its citizens, and the Authorities of the State, as insufficient, & not upon a scale, which, they hoped the zealous, & uncalculating devotion of the State had a just right to expect. And now, for a second time, that city is almost denuded of Troops, and, notwithstanding the formidable defensive works, which have been constructed, if it should be assailed by a land-appeal, with a few thousasnd Infantry, there would be imminent peril of its Capture, by the Enemy. The letter of Mr Hamilton speaks the sentiments of Mobile, and his statements are so impressive, that I feel assured I need not enlarge upon the subject, in this Communication. I sincerely trust in the purposes of the Government, to afford adequate protection to its people - so far as its means will allow; and to such a disposition of its forces, as promises the greatest benefit to the Confederate Cause; but, at the same time, am painfully apprehensive, that the real weakness & exposure of the important Sea-Port of Mobile, are not fully known, or duly appreciated by our Military Department Commanders. For this reason, I appeal to the President, to cause due examination into its condition, & for such provision for its defense, as the emergency demands. Respectfully, Your obedient Servant. (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter, Gov^r of Ala.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 6th, 1863 Hon. N. B. Mardis, Judge of Probate of Shelby Co. Sir, I have been, this day, notifed by the Court of County Commissioners of Shelby Co. that your official Bond "is insufficient to ensure fidelity to the discharge of ("his") your duties as such Judge." This notice is given under the provisions of the ^(5th Sect. of the)^ Act "to provide for the ^(support of the)^ indigent families of Soldiers, in the army of the Confederate States from the State of Alabama," approved Nov^r 12th 1862, which provides "that, if, in the opinion of the Court of County Commissioners, the bond of any Judge of Probate is insufficient to secure fidelity in the discharge of his duties, as herein imposed, such fact shall be reported to the Governor, whose duty

383 if shall be, to require a new or additional Bond, with additional security, so as to secure the disbursement of this fund, without loss to the State, or injury to the indigent." §. With this notice, it is my duty to require of you, an additional Bond, with additional Security, in the Sum of ten thousand Dollars, which you will please give, at once, as the third installment of $8,716, for the indigent families of your County, will not be paid-over, by the Comptroller, until the new Bond is given §. I enclose copy of the letter of the Commissioners. Very Resp'^y, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter. Gov^r of Ala. P. S. Inasmuch - as many of the duties of Probate Judge, are judicial, & cannot be delegated; & as the people, in their Selection of you, for that office, expected your personal attention to its duties, and as the fund, for indigent families must pass through your hands, being, in the aggregate a large sum, & its judicious expenditure, a matter of serious moment to the people; I would suggest the propriety of your resigning your position in the army, to enter upon the discharge of your office as Judge.

Congress, at its last Session, passed an act - requiring of the Secretary of War, that all officers, elected to civil office, shall upon application, be discharged from the Army. Should you desire it, I will address the Secretary, requesting acceptance of your resignation. Jno Gill Shorter -

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 7th, 1863. Maj. Gen. J. G. L. Huey, Talladega, Ala. Sir; I thank you for your letter of the 5th inst. Before its rec'^t I had telegraphed Gen Bragg, demanding, as civil prisoners of the State, under the President's order, all officers, taken in Alabama, serving with armed Slaves - inciting insurrection that Alabamians who are found among the Enemy, are guilty of Treason, there can be no question, but having been captured by the Military Authorities of the Confederate States, the War-department, will, doubtless, hold them, as prisoners of war as this position was taken by the Government, in respect to Traitors in Virginia, when demanded by the Governor of that State. I will, however, open correspondene with the Secretary of War, on this Subject. §. I enclose you a copy of my "Appeal to the people of Alabama," on 22^d Dec^r last; which they, then, passed-by unheeded. I hope, now, they will move vigorously in response to its timely suggestions; & form companies, for local defense, in every neighbourhood. I wish you to give, to this important matter, your early & vigorous efforts, by visiting the important points, in your command, & in the adjacent Counties. The people will have to furnish their own arms, as the State has but very few, which are available. Most of the private arms - gathered a year ago, were inferior, & many worthless. The best have, long since been issued, to arm Confederate troops, in the State, & have, since, been carried beyond its limits. No arms have been delivered under the Contracts for new arms, made with the State. We shall be able, however, to supply ammunition, & I have, this day, ordered a shipment for Talladega, care of F. L. Johnson & Co. Selma; to be forwarded to Col. John T. Morgan, to turn it over to you, & confer with you as to its distribution. Please show him this letter, & ask him to show you the letter written to him. §. I have shipped ammunition for Tuscaloosa, & Greensboro', to the care of the Hon. R. Jemison jr, at the former place & Gen. Wm Kerr, at the Latter, who will make a proper distributioin of it.

There is another matter to which I wish to call your attention; and that is the organization of a line of Couriers, or videttes, extending from Talladega over the Mountains, into the Tennessee Valley. So as to secure the most reliable information of any movements involving the safety of the State. Such organization will be made through Tuscaloosa, communicating with Selma. You can confer with Col. Morgan on this matter, &, I have no doubt, he will readily assist An energetic man should proceed, at once, upon this mission. Let him enlist the aid of the Hon. Enoch Aldridge of Blount, and carry him the enclosed letter, which you will please read before sealing. Any expenses incurred will be promptly paid at the State Treasury. Very Respectfully Your ob'^t Ser'^t Jn^o Gill Shorter.

384 Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 7th, 1863. Col. John T. Morgan, Talladega, Ala. Sir; I am, to-day, in rec'^t of your favor of 5th inst. from Montevallo, for which I am obliged. Your suggestions are approved on 22^d December, last. I issued a Proclamation to the people, urging the formation of Volunteer Companies of State-Guards for local defense, & enclose you a copy. The Security & confidence felt by our people, at that time, was so great that they paid no attention to this Proclamation, and many of them had, perhaps, even forgotten that it had been issued. They now see the necessity of organization, &, I hope, will form Companies in every neighhood, the State has but few arms, having given all She had to the Confederate forces, as rapidly as she could gather them up; & many of them which were issued, with the understanding that they were to be used within the State, have been carried beyond its limits. We have ammunition, however, to issue to organized forces, as occasion may demand; and I have, to-day, ordered a shipment of a supply to Talladega; and ordered it shipped to care of Mess^r F. L. Johnson, State Agents at Selma, to be forwarded to you. I suggest that you turn it over to Gen. Huey, and aid him in distributing it, as the Exigences may require.

I have, to-day, rec^d a letter from Mess^r J. P. Allen, G. W. Harris, & B. Nabors, dated at Elliotsville, Shelby Co. Ala, and asking for ammunition to be deposited at Montevallo; & I have written them that you would provide it from the shipment ordered to you.

I have written Gen. Huey, to canvass the County, in his division, & adjacent Counties, and urge-forward the good work of organization, while the people are in the humor for it. Thanking you for your hearty co-operation, & skill & energy in behalf of Alabama, I am, Respectfully, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter, Gov^r of Ala.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 6th, 1863. Mr Price Williams, Mobile, Dear Sir; I have the pleasure to acknowledge, the receipt, to-day, of your favor of 4th inst. I have known Hon W. W. Mason for many years, & though not having been engaged in Commerical Pursuits, he is a Gentleman of much practical experience in Life, & is an upright, fair-minded, - Just man. I have conversed, fully, with him, upon the true interpretation of the term "just compensation," & its Legal signification is too plain to admit of Controversy. So far as the State of Alabama is concerned, it may be considered, as, in one sense, committed by the decision which as Governor, I made in the case of the seizure of the Steamer Florida, by Governor Moore, my Predecessor. My award, in this Case - giving the owners of the Vessel, $. 90.000, was reported to the Legislature, at its last Session, & has, since, submitted to Congress, & that body has recognized its correctness, & provided for repayment of the money to the State. In that decision, I issued the proposition, that "just compensation" was "that measure of just remuneration which the Public faith is pledged to secure to every Citizen, whose private property is taken for the public benefit, & that the "measure" - "was such a valuation, as would be made by an impartial mind, and certified to be fair - adequate - & full." This is the rule, & by it, reliable evidence, and intelligent, fair, & just-minded man cannot fail to mete-out substantial justice, in any given case. §. In reply to your Suggestion, that it would be well for the joint Commissioners to visit Mobile, at an early day. I have to say, that they can act, only under the direction of the President at Richmond. The State has no power or authority over the assessment, other than the appointment of one of the Commission. This has been done, & he has been advised as to the rule, which the Executive of the State believes the proper one, by which to be guided. There, my powers, under the act, cease. §. It is proper to remind you that the Subjects for impressment, under the Act, are numerous, & co-extensive with the State; & that the present organization of the Commission, by one gentleman, of enlarged merchantile experience; & by the other, of familiarty with all plantation products, & with agricultural oeconomy, and possessing, also, a mind trained to analysis, & legal discrimination, justifies the belief, that the administration of the Law, by them will do justice, to both Government - & the Citizen. I, confidently, believe that such will be the result of their action. §. You will please show this letter to the Mayor of Mobile, & to Mr Walsh, & Mr H. S. Smith, & to any other gentleman - if you deem proper, with the request, however, that no publication of it be made, for fear my motives might be misconstrued.

385 I beg to add, in conclusion, that the appointment of Judge Mason, had been made, by me before any applications, or recommendations, from Mobile, were submitted. Very truly, Yours. (signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 7th, 1863. Hon. Enoch Alldridge, Brooksville, Blount Co. Sir; I herewith hand you a Commission, as special Aid-de-Camp, with the rank of Colonel of Cavalry; While on duty, you will receive pay according to your rank. I enclose you, also, my Proclamation, or "Appeal to the People of Alabama," issued on 22^d December last, urging the people to organize volunteer companies of State-Guards, for Home & local defense. At the time this appeal was sent-out, our people were so confident of their Security, or insensible to danger, that they paid little or no attention to it. Recent events have opened their eyes, and they are now looking round for means of defense. Companies are being formed in many parts of the State, & I hope the good work may go on, until all, who are able, may enroll themselves in some organization or other. I desire you to enter, at once upon the duty of an active Canvass of your County - and adjoining Counties, & urge the formation of infantry & cavalry, or mounted infantry, in accordance with my Proclamation - herewith enclosed. The men will supply their own arms, & I will furnish ammunition. This can be had, on application to Maj^r Gen^l Huey, or Col. John T. Morgan at Talladega. §. The recent raid of the Enemy, through Blount, & other Mountain Counties, shews the stern necessity of active efforts, for organization, in order that our people may be prepared for any emergency, which may occur. The Enemy are pursuing a mode of warfare, unparalleled in civilized Countries, & they should have no quarter, when wandering from their lines, & roaming over the land, to desolate our homes & firesides. I have demanded, as civil prisoners of State, under the President's order, all Yankee officers, taken in Alabama - serving with ^armed^ Slaves, inciting insurrection, & if surrendered to me, they shall be guarded in the Penitentiary, until the Courts are convened to try them. I would prefer, however, that, when caught in such barbarous warfare, no prisoners should be taken. I have advised Gen. Huey, as to the necessity of establishing a line of Couriers, extending from Talladega, over the Mountains, into the Tennessee Valley, through whom, rapid transmission of any important intelligence might be made. He will communicate with you, on this Subject. And you will, likewise, communicate with Colonel Arthur Baird - My regular aid in North Alabama. §. Relying on your zeal, and patriotic devotion to the State, I am, resp^y, Your ob'^t Ser'^t (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter. Gov^r of Ala.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 8th, 1863. Mess^rs J. M. Pearson & W. Page, Dadeville, Ala. Gentlemen; I am, today, in rec'^t of your letter of the 5th inst. and, in reply, have to inform you, that the requisition on Tallapoosa County, owing to the condition of its wants and necessities, was post-poned for the purpose of giving the County the benefit of all its slave-labor, until after the small-grain crop could be gathered; and I had intended not to send it out until that time, but was induced to do so, recently, on account of the urgent demand made upon me for mode[?] labor at Mobile. I have, to day had an interview with Maj. Gen. Buckner, & the information communicated induces the hope that the labor from your county can still be spared, until after Harvest time; & concurring, fully, with you, in the opinion, that it is a matter of prime importance, to save all the small grain possible, I have to direct a suspension of the impressment of Slaves in Tallapoosa County, until after the Harvest. Yours, Respectfully, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 4th, 1863. Dr M. G. Moore, Warden, Ala. Penitentiary, Sir; Tho^s Williams, Esq^r, Administrator of A. Burrowes, advises me that he has an account against the Penitentiary, for the hire of the teams & drivers, from the death of Dr Burrows, down to the purchase of the teams, by the State; and that as he

386 was paid interest on the value of the entire property retained by the State, you do not feel authorised to allow his account for hire. If, as he informed me, there was a separate contract, or agreement, between him, as Warden, & him as administrator, for hire for the team & drivers he would, as administrator, be entitled to receive the hire for the use of the property, instead of interest on its value; unless, in the subsequent contract, which was made with the State thro' me, he, legally, waved the right to the hire. Whether, as administrator, he could, legally - make such a waver, may admit of some doubt; but considering that he could, I am clear that the law would not hold him bound by a waver, unless it was manifest, that the contract made with the State, was understood - mutally to cover it. The fact, that an account was stated, embracing the valuation of the Teams, in common with the stock - & machinery in the prison, and that interest was calculated upon the whole, would be presumptive evidence that it was to cover the hire; but this statement - and the settlement founded upon it, is open to explanation; and it is but fair and just to the administrator, that I, as the agent contracting on part of the State, should admit the fact, that I was not aware of any contract for hire, or that if it had been mentioned to me, I did not remember it. Mr Williams affirms, too, that he did not understand by the Contract, that he was waving the hire. I have no reason to doubt the correctness of his statement. And assuming it to be true, there was, therefore, no understanding by either party, that the hire due by a former contract, was intended to be waived. As to his right, as Administrator to receive hire for the drivers, there can be no question as they were not purchased. For the reasons stated, and as the State ought to do full justice, where the facts are ascertained, in all its dealings with Citizens, and, in a case like the present, even give the benefit of any legal doubt which might arise in favor of the Citizen. §. I have to advise, that in a final settlement with the Administration of Dr Burrows, you should allow the amount due on the Contract for hire, after deducting therefrom, any interest which he may have rec'^d, upon the valuation of the teams, & which may have been run into the General account. Resp'^y Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t. (signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 8th, 1863. Maj. George B. Clitherall, Mobile. Dear Sir; In reply to your letter of the 4th inst - I beg to remind you that the Impressment Act of Congress provided for the appointment of one Commissioner by the President, & one, by the Governor of the State, on request of the President. When appointed they receive their instructions and pay from the Confederate Authorities. The President has not requested me to make any appointment, & I have, up to this writing, received no communication from him on the Subject. The Secretary of War sent me a copy of an official order, appointing a Commissioner in Alabama, by the War-Department, & I acted, promptly, on that, advising the Secretary of War, and saying that I presumed it was intended in lieu of a formal request by the President. Having made the appointment of a Commissioner, on part of the State, and notified the same to the Secretary of War, I conceived that I had done all which I had authority to do in the premises, You will please show this letter to Mr Price Williams, who will also show you a letter, which I recently addressed him on this Subject. Resp'^y, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 8th, 1863. Mr. F. C. Taylor, Greensboro' Ala. Dear Sir, Advised of your patriotic zeal & energy, & ability to organize a line of Couriers & videttes, connecting Selma, with Columbus, Mississippi, via Marion Greensboro', & Tuscaloosa, embracing, also, as lateral points, Gainesville Pickensville & Carrollton, in order that rapid transmission of important intelligence may be made through that portion of Alabama, which is removed from Telegraphic communication, I have appointed you a Special Agent for the State, for the purpose of establishing such a line. The whole matter is committed to your discretion. You will communicate with my aid, Col. A. B. Moore, and other citizens, in the towns mentioned, whose names have been mentioned to you. All costs & charges incurred will be paid at the Treasury. Respectfully, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter. Gov^r of Ala.

387 Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 8th, 1863. Hon. James A. Seddon; Secretary of War; Richmond. Sir; I am advised that among the prisoners recently captured, near Rome, Geo, are officers found serving, within the limits of the State of Alabama, with armed Slaves, & inciting Slaves to insurrection within this State. If this information proves to be correct, the departure from the rules of civilized warfare, will & should deprive them of the benefits of any convention - giving them the privileges of prisoners of War; and render them amenable to the Laws of the State of Alabama, as criminals. In order that the military authorities might not be trammelled by action in advance, which might prejudice the claim of the State of Alabama upon these prisoners. I telegraphed to Gen. Bragg my intention to demand them for trial, under the laws of this State, & the propriety of granting it can be easily determined, upon the report, which Gen. Forrest will make of the results of his expedition. If his report should state the fact to be, as I have been informed, the case of these officers will be, clearly, within the announcement of the intention of the President, in relation to the Proclamation of President Lincoln, that they shall be surrendered, on demand, to the State authorities for trial. §. But another matter has been brought to my notice, in reference to this capture, to which, I wish, especially, to call your attention, not with a view to embarrassing the action of the Government, but to arrive at just, & correct conclusions, as to the proper course to pursue, not only in relation to the present - but to future captures of our own Citizens - willingly serving in the ranks of the Enemy. §. Among the prisoners, captured by Gen^l Forrest, I understand there are two Companies of Alabamians, who have enlisted, as such, in the army of the Enemy, & having been engaged - with known enemies of the State, & the Confederate States, in act not justified by any rule of War, or by necessity, have been captured upon the soil of Alabama, not only levying War against the State, but instigating Slaves to rebellion, & committing deeds of Rapine & destruction upon the property of her citizens, without the excuse, which can pertain to Military necessity, or the course of War. If the uniform of our enemy is to continue to protect their officers & men, in their depredations & upon private property, & wanton destruction of commodities, which cannot be classed as munitions of War, - to say nothing of assaults upon peaceful citizens, & inhuman treatment of the helpless and unprotected, or their instigation of our Slaves to leave their service, is it also to protect our recreant and traitorous citizens, who, still claiming themselves as Alabamians, afford, to our enemies, the means of striking at the heart of the State, & who, when captured - claim the flag of our enemy as their protection? Ample opportunity was given to these Traitors to cash in their lot with the enemy, & remove this reproach & stigma from the State. With a forbearance, before unknown, one of the earliest acts of the Confederacy, was to invite those who preferred the rule of our Enemies, to leave our borders - in peace, and establish themselves in the government of their choice. But these traitors preferred to remain, that their crime might strike deeper, and their blow fall the heavier, and having chosen their status, as citizens of a State of the Confederacy, they should not be allowed to escape the penalty of Treason which they have invited. They stand as citizens levying war, as well as giving aid & comfort to our Enemies. They have chosen this position deliberately, well-knowing the penalty, rejecting the clemency of the government, leaving, in many instances their dependent families upon our Soil, to be supported by the charity of our people, and proclaiming their intentionto lead or accompany the armies of our enemy, for our overthrow & destruction §. If there could be any doubt as to their position, if captured in legitimate warfare, in the ranks of our Enemies, that doubt must be resolved, when they abandon such warfare, to engage in pillage of private property, and murderous destruction of life. No Commision can justify deeds of rapine & violence, committed apart from Military necessity & in violation of the known rules of civilized warfare. §. Even if, through motives of policy, we suspend the proper and fitting punishment of our known enemies, citizens of hostile States, or aliens serving in their ranks, who, under orders of their Superiors, commit such acts of Wanton depredation the same reasons cannot apply to those marauders, who flaunt the flag of their treason in our faces, and dare & defy us in their malice. §. I do not wish to discuss the question, whether their treason to their own State is merged

388 in their Treason against the Confederacy, nor to embarrass the Confederate Government with questions of jurisdiction. It will enough for me, & the State which I represent, if these Traitors be taught that impunity is not to be bought by bravado & that, it will be matter of indifference, whether they receive the reward of their treason, at the hands of the Condederacy, or by the laws of the State. §. It is then with a view of disembarrassing the Confederate Government, that I respectfully request that these marauders be delivered-up to the authorities of this State, for trial by her civil Tribunals, for their acts of violence and rapine against our Citizens, & their treason against the State, whose citizens they claim to be §. It cannot be alleged, for them, as it might be for traitorous citizens of border States, that there are conflicting claims of hostile Governments to jurisdiction, or that the State, thro' the calamity of War, has failed to afford protection & redress to her citizens. Their position has been voluntarily sought, their treason openly avowed, and boastfully vindicated, their violence wanton and malicious. They have braved the penalty of Treason, in avowing themselves Alabamians, &, as such, serving with marauding bands of the enemy, within the borders of our State, & are not entitled to the privileges of Prisoners of War. §. If it is preferred by the Confederate authorities to retain - & try them for their treasonable acts, I am willing to waive the demand on the part of the State; but believing that Justice will be fully & fairly meted-out to them, by the judicial Tribunals of Alabama, it would be more agreeable to me, that, both, the officers mentioned, and the men alludedto, be turned-over, upon my demand, to the State authorities. Proper arrangments will be made, for their safe keeping, until they can have a fair & impartial trial Resp'^y Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter, Gov^r of Ala.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 9th, 1863. Gen. D. C. Green, Qr. Mr. Gen. Mobile Sir; Your report of arms, under date of yesterday, is just rec^d, by Mr Punch. Advise how many - and what kind are necessary to be retained in Mobile; and whether the arms - reported in bad order, can be promptly repaired - & on reasonable terms, in your city. There is a great cry for arms in every portion of the State, & I wish to aid in arming the Companies of State-Guards, which are being organized in different localities. §. If arms cannot be repaired in Mobile, it will be best to ship them here, for that purpose. Resp'^y, Y'r ob'^t Ser'^t. (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 9th, 1863. Mess^r F. L. Johnson, & Co. Selma, Ala. Gentlemen; You are, hereby, appointed State-Agents for the State of Alabama, for inspection & sale of liquors at Selma. I enclose blank bond, which you will execute & return; Also, you will find enclosed, "Proclamation," & "instructions to agents," which will show you the full extent of your district, §. There are no contracts taken, deliverable at Selma; but the A. Q. M. here will ship to you, the receipts of one of the contracts deliverable here. Another has been appropriated to the Agency at Tuscaloosa, and the first shipment will be made through you to Col. R. Jemison jr. A. D. C. who will select the Agent, to whom future shipments will be made. §. The price has been fixed at $. 10. per Gal. for whiskey, & $. 15. for Alcohol, in consideration that the profits are to constitute a fund for the benefit of indigent families of Soldiers. Resp'^y, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Dep^t, Montgomery, Ala. May 9th, 1863. Col. R. Jemison, jr, Tuscaloosa, Ala. Sir; Having no contracts for distillation, deliverable at Tuscaloosa, I have determined to use one of the Contracts, whose delivery is to be at place, for the benefit of Western Alabama, and, herewith, enclose you copy of "Proclamation," & "instructions to agents," which you will please hand-over to some suitable person at Tuscaloosa, who will accept the Agency, & furnish me with the name of the person selected. One barrel of whiskey will be immediately forwarded, by the A. Q. M. to your address, which you can turn-over to the agents, and the remainder of the Contract, will be forwarded to him, as delivered here. The agent, selected by you, will execute & return the Bond enclosed, before entering upon his duties. The prices, at the Agency, will be $. 10. for Whiskey, & $ 15. for Alcohol, which have been so established, in view of the fact, that the profits are to constitute a fund for the benefit of the indigent families of Soldiers Very Resp'^y, Your ob'^t Ser'^t. (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

389 Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala, May 9th, 1863 Hon James A. Seddon, Secretary of War; Richmond. Sir; I have the honor to submit; herewith, copies of an order, issued by Maj. Gen. Buckner commanding the Department of the Gulf, requiring of Maj. Wagner, Ordnance officer, at this post, to repair certain arms - loaned by this State to Col. Clitherall, Chief of Ordnance for Alabama, with respect to the non-execution of said order. §. As the order of Maj. Gen. Buckner, was prompted by a sense of Justice to the State, which had, previously, at various times, loaned its arms to troops in the Confederate Service, to receive them back in unserviceable Condition, to be repaired at its own expense, and as Maj. Wagner denies the authority of Gen. Buckner to give such order, I trust you will give such orders, as will restore the arms to the State, as speedily as possible, & in condition for service. Alabama has few arms for troops, of her own, as her arms have been freely issued to the troops in the Confederate Service. Your ob'^t Ser'^t, (Signed) John Gill Shorter, Gov^r of Ala.

Executive Department, Montgomery, Ala. May 11th, 1863 Capt. J. H. Speed, A. Q. M. Saltville, Va. Sir, As recommended by you, Mr A. B. Eaton has been appointed Agent for the State of Alabama, to assist in the transportation of Salt from Va. to make his head-quarters at Bristol and to report to you for orders & also to Capt. Snodgrass. §. Capt. Snodgrass will be stationed at Cleaveland & instructed to take charge of Transportation, on the same roads. Very Resp'^y, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 11th, 1863. Capt. Snodgrass, Chattanooga, Tenn. Sir; With a view to facilitate the transportation of Salt, from Virginia, & to relieve you from too heavy a charge, I have, to-day, appointed Mr A. B. Eaton - Agent of the State, to assist in transportation with instructions to proceed to Bristol, & receive orders from Capt. Speed at Saltville, & from yourself at Cleveland, which you will, hereafter make your headquarters, with the more especial charge of the roads, below that point, to the various distributing points, in Alabama. §. While Mr Eaton's corresponding point will be at Bristol, he will travel over the roads in Tennessee, when his services may be needed. Very Resp'^y, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter.

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 11th 1863. Mr A. B. Eaton, Sir, You are, hereby, ^appointed^ Agent of the State of Alabama, to assist in the transportation of Salt from Virginia to Alabama, & will be stationed, for the present, at Bristol Tenn. to report to Capt. J. H. Speed, at Saltville for orders. You will also receive & execute orders from Capt. A Snodgrass, at Cleveland, Tenn. The object of your appointment is to secure the speedy & certain transmission of Salt, by the R. Roads, & to exchance from one to the other of the Connecting roads. §. Your pay will be seventy five dollars, per month & your board, while in the employment of the State. Resp'^y, (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter

Executive Department; Montgomery, Ala. May 11th, 1863. Hon. James A. Seddon, Secretary of War, Richmond. Sir, I have the honor to enclose, herewith, copies of the Rolls of Members of the Fire Department of this City, who are liable to conscription, by reason of age, and, also, of Telegraphic correspondence with the Department of War, in relation to their Exemption during the past year. §. In addition to the necessity which exists for their service in the City, in case of Conflagration, the members of these Companies are organized into a military corps, for local defense, thereby promoting the security of the City, & of the Government property deposited here. §. On application to Col. Jn^o T. Morgan, Commandant of Conscripts for Alabama, he refuses to exempt - or detail, or to suspend their enrollments, until your department can be consulted. §. In view of the necessity of this organization, of its Military character, & of its previous exemption, I respectfully request that its members may be left for the performance of their important duties to the City, & the State. Very Resp'^y, Your ob'^t Ser'^t (Signed) Jn^o Gill Shorter. Gov^r of Ala.