Rewards for the Apprehension of Deserters

"Inquiry has been made of me by the commandants of the several regiments with respect to the construction of ther last resolution in the appendix to the Articles of War. They wish to know whethr this resolution gives a reward to parties of soldiers who may apprehend deserters. I would thank you for your opinion on the subject. Of the expediency of giving a reward to parties of soldiers that may be successful in the pursuit of deserters I have no doubt as it would make them zealous and active in the search and would save expense by obviating the necessity of resorting to other means."