From the National Archives, RG 109, Ch. 6, Vol. 707-709; “Letters Received and Sent, Chimborazo Hospital. 1861-64.” 3 Vols.: Vol. 707. p. 17

Conf. States of America
Med. Purveyor’s Office
Richmond Dec 5/61

Sir
                    The Surgn Genl has directed that all the folding bedsteads furnished the Hospitals at Chimborazo under your charge be withdrawn & cots substituted for them.

I send the cots to replace the Bedsteads & you are requested to return them upon the wagons which take the cots to you.

You are also requested to inform me, how many cots have been altered(?) at yr Hospitals, & what has been done with the canvass tops which have been replaced by wooden frames.

Very Respectfully
  Yr Obt Servt
    by order
      E. W. Johns
        Q. M. D.

Surgn J. B. McCaw
Chimborazo Hospitals