From the Confederate States of America, Department of Henrico Collection; Virginia Historical Society Mss3C7604a. Reel 2, Frame 00380

C. S. Mil. Prison
Richmond January 23 1864

Major

I write you on behalf of James N. Derby a Private Co "D" 3d Va Infty who has been confined in Castle Thunder some two months under the following circumstances - On the 13th of October 1863 Derby met me on the street and after abusing me in the worst language followed me some two hundred yards and walked up and struck me in the face. He being a much stronger and heavier man than myself, in self defence I shot him. Since then he has told me that he was told that I was a Yankee deserter and thought I had no right in arresting his friend. I believe the fellow is sincere, and is sorry for what he has done, and having been confined in the Castle for some time, and as there have been no charges preferred against him, I hope, Sir, if consistent with the good of the service, you may give him an immediate discharge.

I am Major

Yr Obt Servt
Jno. L. Ligon Jr.
Clerk at C. S. Mil. Prison

Major J. H. Carrington
Commissioner

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