From the National Archives, M437 (Letters Received by the Confederate Secretary of War 1861-1865), Roll #6

Head Quarters Camp at McDowell
July 27^th 1861

To the Surgeon General
Confederate Forces, Richmond;

Sir

I have the misfortune to report that Surgeon Wm. A. Carrington was taken prisoner by the enemy. I have earnestly to request that in view of the large amount of sickness and disability from which this regiment is suffering, you will assign a Surgeon to this regiment with orders to report at once.

Very Respectfully
   Your Obt Servt
      W. B. Taliaferro
         Col. 23rd Regiment Va Vols.