James Strain to Richard Yates

Monmouth Ill, August 12th, 1865

Hon. Richard Yates,

Dear Sir,

Dr. John G. Gilmer, late a surgeon in 32, Ill Vol. an old [acqueinet?], once of mine that made application to the President for the appointment as Superintendent of the mint at Dahlonga, Ga. once has requested me to assist him as far as I could. I will make you a statement in regard to him and if upon the strength of that you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation to the President I would be much obliged. You will find his name in Adj. Gen. Fuller's

report of [illegible] /61.2, as 2nd assistant surgeon 32nd Regt. He resided at Brighton, near Alton, entered the service in /61 as a private I think, was severely wounded at Shilo, so that he is now and permanently, partially disabled. He rose unaided to the rank of first assistant surgeon and acted for nearly two years as Brigade surgeon with the [pay?] only of 1st assistant Regt. surgeon. He is of good moral character, and an energetic and accurate business man and would in my judgment fill the place to which he aspires well.

I received and distributed some copies of your speech. I had carefully read it before, that is the only true and safe ground

if we would not fight the battle over again.

Yours truly

James Strain

(back of letter)

Hon. James Strain

Monmouth Aug. 12/65

Desires you to write a letter of recommendation for his friend Dr. John G. Gilmer, late a surgeon in army who wants an appointment as Superintendent of a mint at Dahlonga, Ga.