William White to William Ramsay
No. 2
Communication of W W White Commissary with reference to a communication of Dr. John Drayton.
James Island. Dec. 13, 1863
Capt. Wm. M. Ramsay [Captain William M. Ramsay]
Engs. (Engineers] James Island
Dr. [Dear] Sir, I would respectfully make the following statement of facts with reference to that portion of the communication of Dr. John Drayton which you have referred to me. It is true as stated by Dr. Drayton that the salt ration has fallen short on two occasions & for the reasons given below which will show you that that the contemptible insinuations as to fraud made by Dr. Drayton are basely false & cannot in a single instance be substantiated by him.
One of the instances referred to as above, occurred by my having to issue 3 days rations of salt to discharged negroes (who were returning home) when others took their places for whom no extra draft was made on the Commissary in the City � the other, the salt ran short by my issuing a double ration of salt to all the negroes who were (daily) in the Hospital, this was done on a special representation of Dr. Drayton that it was necessary for them in their convalescent state. These are the facts as they have occurred, I cannot imagine what motives could have induced such a communication other than those of a malicious nature. I remain your obedt svt [obedient servant] (signed) Wm. [William] W. White.
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