W. W. Spencer to Richard Yates

Hilton Head S.C.

April 11th 1864

To His Excellency Governor Yates

In behalf of the men of the Detachment 39th Ill Vols I would most respectfully apply for information respecting the time of the discharge of three year men.

Are men who have had no furlough during the three year service entitled to a discharge prior to their actual date of enlistment on that account?

If there is any such time allowed, in favor of the soldiers what would be the extent of it?

Will the period of service date from individual enlistment or from the first regimental muster prior to leaving the State?

I ask this last question from the fact many claim we can be held till the date of muster of the regiment Oct 11th although the soldier may have been enlisted Aug. 6th 1861. Sworn into the service by Capt Webb and drawn pay and clothing from that date.

Should you answer these queries you will greatly oblige a detachment of your loyal true hearted boys

Very respectfully Your Obt servant Sergt W.W. Spencer Detch 39th Ill Vols

Hilton Head S.C.

Spencer. Sergt W.W. 39th Ills Hilton Head. S.C.

April 11. 1864

Inform him, whether the 3 years men, be discharged from date of enlistment or date of muster. also whether men that have had no furlough during service hold any advantage over those that have had such?

Ansd. H.