June 17,1861

Went to see Lt. Todd. He is in charge of the prison here in 
Richmond where the Union prisoners were taken. Todd is the 
brother-in-law of Mr. Lincoln.

Lt. Todd was polite when I asked him to be made a hospital 
nurse in the prison.  He took down my name and said I was the 
first lady to make any such application.  But my heart sank 
when he told me it was impossible for him to grant such a 
request, especially to a lady.

                           --------

June 21,1861

I called on Mr. Memminger and found him in his office in the 
Treasury Building. I begged  permission to see the prisoners. He 
looked at me sternly.  He said he could not think of such a thing. 
He told me the prisoners were not fit for a lady to visit. I told 
him that I had once heard him at a convention in peace time, speak 
beautifully  on the subject of religion. He smiled. I  said that 
love was the fulfilling of the law, and if we wished "our cause"  
to succeed, we must begin with charity to the enemy.  Mr. Memminger 
immediately wrote a letter  introducing me to General Winder, the 
Provost Marshal. 

I immediately went to see him. I found him at his shanty office on
Bank Street.  He was most kind, and I was politely received.  I told
him I would be glad to visit the prisoners and would like to send 
them something.  He raised no objection and wrote a note giving me
permission to visit the prisoners and to send them books, luxuries,
delicacies and what I may please. I was very happy!