A bill to provide additional clothing and privileges to troops in the field

[House Bill No. 311.]

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Dec. 30, 1864.— Read lirst
and secoud times; to be printed.

[By Mr. Norton, Committee on Military Affairs.]

A BILL

To jyrovide additional Clothing and Privileges to Trooj/s in the Field.

1 Whereas the armies of the Confederate States of America,

2 unawed by the powerful combinations of our enemies, or the

3 fearful depreciation of the national currency, continue to pre-

4 sent an instance of lofty patriotism and self-sacrificing fidelity,

0 unexampled in the history of wars: and whereas it is the duty

6 of this government to extend to all its actual defenders alike

7 every respect and consideration, and to provide them with every

8 personal comfort not incompatible with the interests of the

9 public service: Therefore,

1 Section 1. The Congress of the Confederate States of Ame-

2 rica do enact, That the non-commissioned officers, musicians and
ii privates of the confederate armies in the field, exclusive of re-
4 serves, details, and those absent without leave, 'shall be provided
^ each with one complete suit of uniform clothing, to be presented

6 them by the government, in addition to their present pay and

7 allowances, as an expression of the gratitude of the nation for

2

^ their gallantry, their sacrifices and their unflinching devotion to

9 the country.

] Sec. 2. All officers and soldiers of the Confederate States

■i armies, who volunteered previous to the passage of the con-

3 scription act, April 16th, 1862, and who have since been cou-

4 tinuously in tlie army, except while absent on leave, or because
-3 of sickness or disability, or when detained by imprisonment,

6 shall be entitled to wear, in consideration of their long service,

7 such distinguishing mark or badge as the President or Secretary
^ of War shall designate.