Richard Yates to T. M. Eddy

659

February 5' 4.

Revr. T. M. Eddy

Chicago.

My Dear Sir:

Your favors of the 21st Ultimo and 3d inst relating to the meritorious services and high soldierly character of Private Henry C. Young of the Chicago Mercantile Battery were duly received and carefully noted.

One of the most unpleasant things connected with the duties of my office is that I am not able to reward all such deserving and gallant soldiers as private Young. I fully believe all that you and others say in his favor, and yet I cannot consistent with the regulations concerning promotions, promote him over the heads of his seniors who are

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also deserving in his battery.

I have however just applied to the War Department for authority to raise four more batteries and organize another regemint of Artillery. I have some hopes of success, and if I do succeed Young shall be remembered and provided for in some way.

I enclose herewith General Order No 43. in relation to promotions. The principles of that Order I was compelled to adopt and it has met with unusual satisfaction. From it you will see the difficulty in the way of promoting Young in his battery at present, but I repeat he shall be remembered at the first opportunity.

I am very much obliged to you for bringing this case to my attention for it shall always be my constant endeavor to provide so far as I can such deserving soldiers as

your young friend.

I remain, dear sir

Very Truly Yours

Richd. Yates

Governor