L. Milton Whitman to Richard Yates

Naperville, Ills. Aug. 23d 1862

Hon. Richard Yates

Dear Sir:

Being desirous of serving my country in the present war against a wicked rebellion, I hereby tender my services as Chaplain, and respectfully solicit an appointment to that position in some one of the regiments about to be mustered into service from this state.

Physical disability renders me utterly unable to serve my country in the capacity of a soldier: but I think I can serve the cause of Right, Truth and Humanity, as a Chaplain.

I am a native of the State of New York, forty four years of age, and a regularly ordained minister of the gospel, of the Baptist faith. I came into this state in 1856, and have been constantly en

gaged in the labors of the ministry ever since.

Should your Excellency grant my petition, and commission me a Chaplain in the Volunteer service, I will labor to perform the duties of the station faithfully, to God and to those committed to my charge.

I refer your Hon. to Lieut. Col. A. H. Holt, for further information.

Very Respectfully

Your Obt. Servt,

L. Milton Whitman