Richard Yates to Edwin M. Stanton

June 9th [186]4.

Hon. E. M. Stanton

Secretary of War.

Washington DC.

Sir: I would respectfully request that the disability in case of Lieut William J. Gardner late of Capt. Davidsons Battery Peoria Light Artillery, and afterwards Co A 2nd Regt Ills Lt. Artillery who was dismissed for using disrespectful language to a superior Officer may be removed with view to his being again permitted to take commission in the Army. I am confident that the action of the Court, which tried him was too severe. He has [performed?] [illegible]

and distinguished himself at Pea Ridge, Sugar Creek, and other Engagements. I earnestly desire that you will remove the [illegible] created by the order of dismissal. Letter from Maj Genl Curtis of May 19th [illegible]

Very Respectfully

Richd Yates

Governor