Unkown to N. P. Banks

New Orleans La. March 27, 1864

General,

This will be handed you by Capt R B Hatch A.Q.M. - one of the first volunteers from the state of Illinois - and the oldest Captain & A.Q.M. of volunteers in the service

His orders are to report to you in person for duty-

As a true friend of the Government - in times of peace as well as of war - he has been true - and has the fullest confidence of the people of our state-

As a Gentleman - and as a good businessman - he has my hearty endorsement

I ask that you give him a position commensurate with his rank. and recomend him to you especial favor. - and shall be very glad to know that this letter has been of service to him.

To

Maj Genl. N.P. Banks

Dept. of the Gulf

Hatch. R. B

Mar 27. 1864

Being ordered to report in person for duty to Maj Genl Banks - wants a letter of introduction and submits a draft Copy-

File simply

Gov-this is about what I would like to have you write - I would be obliged to you if you would change the wording to suit your wishes of propriety

Very Respy

R.B. Hatch