N. M. Knapp to Richard Yates

When I think of what has been and see a people so careless, even stupid in the [promises?], I feel like rising in my stirrups and saying d-n all rebels - d-n all copperheads and especially d-n all old gray bellies and dough-heads.

Now, how to do it. Arrangements might be made at Washington to have the Pay Master Genl order me to Springfield to assist in paying mustered out men, and when there I might not happen to have any duty to do, or not much. If I were to get leave of absence for the purpose it would'nt look so well "office-holders in the field" &c

I can't request the transfer because by order "such request will be construed as a resignation". It wants to be done soon if at all, as I might be ordered to Atlanta. I could be sent back as quick as the election was over.

Please answer me at once if you deem the suggestions of this letter deserving any consideration.

I am Dear Sir very

Respectfully

Your obt servt

N. M. Knapp USA

Knapp N. M.

Louisville Ky

Aug 20th 1864.

He wants to be in Illinois during the coming campaign. Thinks he can be of service to the Union party. Says that an order from Washington to the Pay Master Genl would secure him a leave of absence.

Write President Lincoln requesting &c

Enclos to Mr. Nicholay

& Return to me

Applied and answered Aug 30th 1864.