Despatch 56 (H. H. Bell 1863)

US Steam Sloop Pensacola
Off New Orleans
September 24th, 1863

Sir
Desertions from the Navy to the Army, are very frequent, and sometimes the deserters after being absent for months, return and surrender themselves.

There is now one case of this kind on hand, Joseph Whitcomb, private Marine, enlisted in the 13th Maine on the 12th of May, and again deserting them, gave himself up on board of the US Ship Potomac on the 5th instant.

Besides this, there is a case of George Knock, armorer of this ship, whose crime can scarcely be written about; for months he has been pursuing a young landsman in the most obscene manner, as if he were a girl; and taking wanton liberties with him; until the crew becoming disgusted, brought his conduct to the notice of the Executive Officer.

Such cases are too shocking for a formal investigation; and should be summarily dealt with, and the persons marked with India ink, to keep the pests out of the public service.

Respectfully referred to the Department

I have the honor to be
Your Obedient Servant
H. H. Bell
Commodore
Commanding W. G. B. Squadron pro tem

To the Hon.
Gideon Welles
Secretary of the Navy
Washington