JULY 26, 1864.
Major-General SHERMAN,
Commanding, &c.:
In case we succeed in carrying out your wishes will it meet your approbation, should I see a good opening, if I should with a portion of the command make dash on Macon and by vigorous stroke release the prisoners (officers) now at that point, and afterward go on to Americas and release those (privates) there. I would like to try it, and am willing to run any risks, and I can vouch for my little command. Now is the time to do it before the rebel army falls back and covers that country, and I have every inducement to try it. If we accomplish the desired object it will compensate for the loss as prisoners of us all, and I should feel compensated for almost any sacrifice.
Very respectfully, &c.,
GEORGE STONEMAN,
Major-General.