Julius White to Richard Yates

Letter from Gen White to Gov Yates.

Head Quarters Draft Rendezvous Springfield Ills. Feb. 9. 1864

Sir The Report of the Commission appointed by Your Excellency to examine the condition of Camp Bates, which was referred to me for consideration, has been carefully read, and is herewith respectfully returned.

The remarks of the Commission upon the sanitary condition of the camp, are doubtless, to a very great extent, if not wholly, just – How far the officers in charge were responsible for the abuses complained of, and how far these abuses arose from circumstances beyond their control, is matter of some doubt.

Upon taking command here, last week, this subject was brought to my notice immediately. Major Heffernan,

an officer in whose capacity I have great confidence, has been assigned, to the command of Camp Bates.

The Hospitals will be extended and improved as quickly as authority for that purpose can be obtained-- a daily, thorough inspection of the Barracks, Hospitals, culinary department, and grounds will be made, and reformatory measure adopted wherever, and whenever needed, inclusive of the removal of incompetent or negligent officials.

That part of the Report relating to cruel, and unnecessarily severe punishments, and insufficient supply of subsistence, will be made the subject of further investigation.

I am Very Respectfully Your Obdt Servt Julius White Brig Gen. Comdg. Rendezvous

His Excy. Richd Yates Governor of Illinois