Commander of the 3rd Division of the Army of the Ohio to the Secretary of War; and the Latter's Reply

Huntsville [Ala.]  May 4 1862

I have this day written you fully embracing three topics of great importance.  The absolute necessity of protecting slaves who furnish us valuable information–the fact that I am left with out the command of my line of communications and the importance of holding Alabama north of the Tennessee.  I have promised protection to the slaves who have given me valuable assistance and information.  My River front is 120 miles long and if the Government disapprove what I have done I must receive heavy re enforcements or abandon my position.  With the assistance of the Negroes in watching the River I feel my self sufficiently strong to defy the enemy.

O. M. Mitchel

Washington [D.C.]  5 May 1862

General O M Mitchel,  Your Telegram of the 3^d and 4^th have been received   No General in the field has deserved better of his Government than yourself and the department rejoices to award credit to one who merits it so well.  The Department is advised of nothing that you have done but what it has approved   The assistance of slaves is an element of military strength which under proper regulations you are fully justified in employing for your security and the success of your operations.  It has been freely employed by the enemy: and to abstain from its use when it can be employed with military advantage would be a failure to employ means to suppress the Rebellion and retrieve the authority of the Government.  Protection to those who furnish information or other assistance is a high Duty

Edwin M Stanton