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Confederate States of America,

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Richmond, Va. Novr. 12th 1863

My dear Sir

I do not think that anything can be more certain than that the aids of the President are in actual service. We perform military duty all the time, are liable to be sent allover the Confederacy, (one is now with the Army of Tenn.) receive pay from the Pay officer of the army; draw forage for hours & be used in service &c. and though stationed in Richmond are as much officers in actual service as Genl. Robs. Ace.

To avoid controversy I was willing to compromise; but as my offer has been rejected, let us fight it out. I should not now be willing to fine $1500.01.

I think if you ask Genl. Cooper, the highest authority on army matters, he will prove [?] that the Presidents staff are [depire?] & defacto in actual service.

Very truly yours

Wm M. [Shoune?]