Mr. Boring,

I have not seen this article, however, I must disagree with the implication that Congress was aware of the letter. Again, I suggest that you check out the afore mentioned book. I have seen the supporting material and it is pretty clear that the issue was suppressed. If the author implied this without some way of backing it up then I believe that it is academically irresponsible.

It would have been a huge deal if it had got out into the public and Jefferson Davis had enough enemies that they would have used it for political fodder for many months to come. Inspite of what many Southern revisionist historians imply (oh yes we have them too), the Confederate national government, State governments, and the Confederate High Command were rarely, rarely, rarely on the same sheet of music. Many times they were not even in the same orchestra pit.

Respectfully,

Gerald D. Hodge, Jr.
War Between the States Historian
Historian: 39th Georgia Volunteer Infantry
http://39thgavolinfrgt.homestead.com/39thHomepage.html