duty in defense of the country might be relaxed in the present case as being for the interest both of the people at large and their defenders in the field.
To the House of Representatives.
I herewith transmit a communication from the Secretary of War, in response to your resolution of the 21st ult., inquiring whether official notice has been given to the proper officers of the provisions of "An Act to protect the rights of owners of slaves taken by or employed in the Army."
To the House of Representatives.
I herewith transmit a communication from the Secretary of State, to be read in secret session, in partial response to your resolution of February 28th, asking for copies of such portions of the correspondence between the State Department and our commissioners abroad as can be communicated without detriment to the public interest.
To the Senate and House of Representatives.
I herewith transmit a communication from the Secretary of the Navy, to be read in secret session.
I invite your especial attention to the subject he presents.
To the Senate and House of Representatives.
I herewith transmit for your information a communication from the Secretary of War, covering copies of General Braxton Bragg's reports of several battles.
To the Senate and House of Representatives.
I herewith transmit a communication from the Secretary of
