William Douglas Knox to Richard Yates

Sept 15, 1862

Gov. Yates

Springfield Illinois

This a dark hour in our country's history-

Any one that imagines he can do some good should stand ready to "fall into line"-

I have held four commission's in an Infantry Regt.-and then promoted to command of a Brigade in New York- Understand the simple evolutions of Battalion drill- and permit no man to excel me in giving command-

I respectfully ask the command of an Infantry Regt- don't annoy you with a long list of irresponsible names to a petition-

but refer to Hon. Wm. H. Rosevelt Mayor of our City and his Hon. Judge Joseph Sibley also a resident of Warsaw

If wanted will cheerfully and promptly "report" as you may direct-

If not will feel pleased with myself that I tendered you my services-

Your humble servt.

Wm. Douglas Knox

Warsaw Illinois

Wm Douglas Knox

Warsaw Ill. Sept 15/62

Wants the command of a Regiment