I am ignorant of the proper authority to address in relation to the treatment and sufferings of prisoners arrested by order of the Government of the United States and I therefore address you directly as the head of that Government and respectfully request that this statement of facts may be recorded or filed in the proper Department with a hope that it may lead to their redress.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNO. FRED'K MAY.

[Sub-inclosure.]

BALTIMORE, September 18, 1861.

This si to certify that I have attended professionally the Hon. Henry May for some six years past on account of an affection of his lungs which has rendered it impossible for him to continue his professional avocation and which at times has most seriously affected his respiration and voice. Confinement in a close apartment will in my opinion he should enjoy the open air and exercise.

N. R. SMITH, M. D.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, October 11, 1861.

Colonel MARTIN BURKE, Fort Hamilton, N. Y.

SIR: You are authorized to release the Honorable Henry May, of Baltimore, now confined at Fort Lafayette, to attend his brother's funeral and under an engagement to return to the fort if required by the Secretary of State.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

FORT HAMILTON, New York Harbor, October 11, 1861.

Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.

SIR: Inclosed please find engagement of Hon. Henry May to return to Fort Lafayette if required by the Secreteary of Stte. Mr. May has been released and started for Baltimore immediately.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

MARTIN BURKE,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

[Inclosures.]

FORT HAMILTON, N. Y., October 11, 1861.

I, Henry May, do hereby give my word of honor that I will return to Fort Lafayette if required by the Secretary of State.

HENRY MAY.

Witnesses:

HENRY E. SMITH.

JAS. C. LAY.

CUMBERLAND, MD., October 12, 1861.

Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Washington.

MY DEAR SIR: The inclosed tells a story that I am sure will affect you. I send it as the best mode I can think of to accomplish the pur-