The following letter, which comes from the Ledyard/Strawbridge archives at Lorenzo in Cazenovia, New York, was written by George Strawbridge Ledyard of Cazenovia, who lived from 1825 to 1890. He evidently is writing about his first cousin James, who I believe was the son of George Strawbridge of New Orleans. George Strawbridge was the brother of Jane Strawbridge Ledyard, the mother of George Strawbridge Ledyard.

Cazenovia Feby 9, 1865

Hon. D.E. Littlejohn

Washington D.C.

Sir

I have an old friend & relative who is a prisoner of War, at present confined in the old Capitol Washington (Col. James Strawbridge of the Rebel Army.) I should be glad to extend some trifling aid to him in procuring a few simple comforts not provided by the Government in such cases, if the rules governing military prisons will permit & provided there is no impropriety in so doing.

I do not know precisely the proper way of getting money to him. I suppose however it may be through Col. Mulford Commissioner of Exchange whose address & the proper forms of application I have not the means of knowing.

My Father suggests that you might be able to get it to him through Col. M or by the regular channel of communication.

I therefore enclose you a check on N.Y. for $15. & have made it payable to your order that you can send that amount in any manner most convenient if permissible, or if not be kind enough to return the check by mail. Hoping that you will excuse me for troubling you in such a matter. I remain Resp'y your obedient

Geo.S. Ledyard