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results cannot be achieved, and where those appliances are not furnished in a measure commensurate with requirements the essentials of food must be first sought.
And when the means to procure even these are not adequately supplied, then the distribution of that which is procurable must be proportionately restricted.
I illustrate by stating that the adherence of this bureau (under the embarrassments referred to) to the reduction of the meat ration, notwithstanding the urgent application of General Lee, has alone enabled it to furnish meat thus far. And, foreseeing the inevitable deficiency ahead, I asked the Secretary eight months ago to put the bread ration at one pound. He refused, and I did it on my own responsibility.
This continued for some months, and General Lee at length urgently applied for increase.
The Secretary of War also pressed it. I refused unless positively ordered in the face of my declaration that it was absolutely necessary to keep it at that point, without due funds and improved transportation from the South.
On 14th December, I recommended the reduction by general order, and he then reluctantly assented.
Without this proceeding on my part, this army would absolutely have been destitute.
I mention this fact to exhibit the straits to which this bureau was driven, under the embarrassments referred to above.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
(Signed)
L. B. Northrop, Commissary-General.
