W. P. Benton to Richard Yates

Headquarters U. S. Forces, District of Baton Rouge,

Baton Rouge, La., Aug 11th 1864.

His Excellency

Gov. Richd Yates

It affords me pleasure to recommend you Lieutenant William M. Burton of the 9th Illinois Cavalry for a field Officer in one of your Regiments

He has served as Aid-de-camp. on my Staff for more than two years and now leaves at his own patriotic request to join his regiment where his services are now much needed, as that glorious Regiment was badly cut up in the late fight under Genl A. J. Smith. Burton is honest, capable and brave, but you know from personal observation the history of the 1st Brig, 1st Div. 13th Mo. at Vicksburg which I had the honor to Command

I have the honor to be, with great respect

Your Obedient Servant

W. P. Benton

Brig Gen Condg.

Benton W P.

Baton Rouge Aug 11 1864