"Dear Sir—You wrote me sometime since, inquiring as to the services of Mr. Ruggles as a scout and spy for the Union army. In reply I would state that Mr. Ruggles was a superior man for the work assigned him, and the information obtained through him of the movements of the enemy was always reliable.
"In the discharge of his duties, he was active, energetic, and heroically brave. His gallantry in the service deserves honorable mention in the work of which you speak.
"I am truly yours, etc.,
"Leeman F. Ross."
"Head-quarters 17th Army Corps,
"Department of the Tennessee,
"Vicksburg, Miss., December 15, 1863.
"To whom it may concern:
"This is to certify that Mr. Ruggles has been employed by me at various times during the past year, and I have always found him brave, adventurous, and truthful.
"His services as a scout have been very important, and he deserves well of the military authorities.
"Jas. B. McPherson,
"Major-General."
"Zanesville, O., July 31, 1866.
"Major E. C. Downs: