To
General Butler--I am satisfied that the chief object of your interview, besides having the proper sanction, meets with my entire approval.
I have seen, from Southern papers, that a system of retaliation is going on in the
South, which they keep from us, and which we should stop in some way. On the subject of exchange, however, I differ from
General Hitchcock; it is hard on our men held in Southern prisons not to exchange them, but it is humanity to those left in the ranks to fight our battles.
Every man released on parole, or otherwise, becomes an active soldier against us at once, either directly or indirectly.
If we commence a system of exchange which liberates all prisoners taken, we will have to fight on until the whole
South is exterminated.
If we hold those caught, they amount to no more than dead men. At this particular time, to release all Rebel prisoners North would insure
Sherman's defeat, and would compromise our safety here.