From the Richmond Dispatch, 6/25/1862, p. 1, c. 7

TO THE EDITORS OF THE DISPATCH: –

Gentlemen: My attention has been called to the publication of Capt. John T. Smith's hearsay card, of yesterday, charging the surgeons and nurses of this hospital with "monstrous and criminal neglect." I immediately examined into the case alluded to, and send you the certificate of the gentleman spoken of, S. M. East, which I hope will be a sufficient refutation.

Having had charge of this hospital but a short time, the case in which the Captain is so mistaken did not occur during my administration, but I am constrained to testify that the gentlemen who preceded me were above suspicion, every patient testifying to their unceasing care and kindness.

In this connection, allow me to say that the ladies of this city have, with the most heroic devotion, nursed the wounded in this hospital night and day, and the publication of Capt. Smith is an unjust reflection, which should not have appeared in print without proper investigation.

WM. H. COFFIN,
Surgeon in charge.

Seabrook's Hospital, June 23, 1862.

______

SEABROOK'S HOSPITAL, June 23, 1862.

I, Silas M. East, Company I, 13th Alabama regiment, Capt. J. T. Smith, do certify that there were no vermin of any kind in my wounds when visited by my Lieutenant and my brother. I also certify that my Captain has never visited me since my confinement in this place. My wounds have been properly dressed every day, and sometimes twice a day. I am treated with kindness and properly nursed in this hospital.

S. M. EAST.

Witness: A. J. Williams, Steward.

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