Southern Historical Society Papers, Volume 2.
Reverend J. William Jones, Ed.

[94] adopted the saving of grease by every means, and dripping of lye and making soap and candles was instituted at ports and directed in camp when practicable; and in 1862 arrangements to import soap, candles, coffee and tea from abroad were made, and all the sugar possible collected on both sides the Mississippi and brought to this side. It is due to these arrangements that there has been any supply of these commodities and that the hospitals have been supplied and that the soldiers of the army have had a small allowance of coffee and sugar to help out the diminished ration.

When corn was plenty in the summer of 1862, arrangements were made in Georgia for a sufficient supply of whisky for issue under circumstances of exposure and fatigue and for conversion into vinegar, which had to be manufactured by this bureau. The impossibility of private individuals getting barrels excluded the collection of vinegar to any extent from household and private contractors.

The opposition of the Legislature of Georgia prostrated this plan. Similar opposition in other States, and the growing deficiency of funds even for the purchase of the essentials of food, has rendered it impossible to get an adequate supply; but it has been furnished, to a considerable extent, nevertheless.

Want of barrels, coopers and money has prevented the collection of sorghum to the extent intended as a substitute for sugar and meat.

This bureau has allowed no contract for the conversion of any grain fit for consumption by man or beast to be converted into liquor within this State, and necessity has, therefore, compelled the impressment of apple brandy, but in very limited quantities.

(Signed)

This paper is respectfully referred for the information of the Honorable Secretary of War, in connection with report of Commissary General of 9th instant.

(Signed)