A. B. Wells to Richard Yates

St Louis Aug 22d '62

His Ex. Gov Yates

Springfield

Ills

Respected sir

I am at this time clerk of the Vice President of the O.&M. Railway Co. I desire if such a thing is possible to get a commission as Lieut I was at the Arlington House in Virginia as aid to Genl Wadsworth and chief Operator of US Mil Telegraph on the Va side at one time I was also assistant to Col Rufus Ingalls Chief QM Army of the Potomac I left the army last Spring with the Typhoid Fever I had no commission did not wish any at that time I am I think competent to fulfill the duties of an aid and I understand almost anything that pertains to writing. I refer you to Col Rufus Ingalls to Ward H. Lamon of Washington to Genl McDowell Genl Wadsworth Genl Keyes and my present employer. I am not dissapated at all and if it should please you to appoint me to any position

I should endeavour to gain the esteem and confidence of those I serve under. I am and always have been Loyal and true to my Country I am 24 years old am exempt from Military Duty (being an operator) but am anxious to do something for my country and I am sure I could do more service as an aid or in a position where I would have writing to do than as a fighter

if I am not asking too much please answer and excuse me for taking up your time

Your most obedient

A. B. Wells

Care Mendes Cohen

Vice Presdt & Supt O&M RR.

St Louis

I can furnish you letters from the parties I have named if you so desire

A. B. Wells

St Louis

Aug 22/62

Wishes to get a position as a Lieut in the Army, he thinks himself able to do the duties of such.

Ansd Sept 18.

Lts are elected by the men