HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH, Hilton Head, S. C., July 7, 1864.

Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit herewith a communication* signed by Brigadier-Generals Wessells, Seymour, Heckman, Shaler, and Scammon, received by flag of truce July 5, 1864, asking that every courtesy and kindness may be extended to the rebel officers now in my hands. I would respectfully state everything consistent is allowed these officers, and that they are treated in every respect and their comfort attended to in the same manner our offices are treated.

I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. H. FOSTER,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH, Hilton Head, S. C., July 7, 1864.

Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a letter+ from General Samuel Jones, covering a letter to the Adjutant-General U. S. Army from Brigadier General H. W. Wessells, and other general officers now prisoners of war in Charleston.

I inclose also a copy of my reply+ to General Samuel Jones. If it meets the views of the Government to exchange these prisoners, rank for rank, or its equivalent, I respectfully ask that the requisite authority may be given to me, and I will see that the exchange is properly conducted.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. G. FOSTER,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH, Hilton Head, S. C., July 7, 1864.

Major General SAMUEL JONES,
Commanding Confederate Forces, S. C., Ga., and Fla.:

GENERAL: During a recent movement on John's Island Dr. W. T. Robinson, of the One hundred and fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, was taken prisoner by your forces. I would respectfully request that he be released, in accordance with the well-established custom of releasing medical officers of both armies.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. G. FOSTER,

Major-General, Commanding.

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*See July 1, p. 163.

+See pp. 161, 164.

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