B. F. Ford to Richard Yates

Tuscola May 6 1861

Gov Yates

Dr Sir

After my compliments I would say that I wrote you sometime since in regard to an appointment in the Quartermaster or Commissary Department I should like such a place in the regiment that is to be formed for this Congressional and if Your Honor thinks proper to confer it upon me I will discharge the duties to the best of my ability and be ever grateful for the Honor. I suppose it would need nothing more as an acquaintance of long standing

would preclude the necessity for reccommendations I believe this is the first appointment that I have ever asked for of any kind and if it was a Party appointment I should not ask for it. If necessary I can send you a petition as long as any man hoping all will be satisfactory to you and I get the Appointment

I remain yours

B. F. Ford

Please answer that he must see Marshall who if elected Colonel would have appointment. Tell him to succeed (over) [continued vertically on first page] he must be active - that the applicants are so numerous he will stand no chance unless he takes time by the forelock - that I would be glad to see him appointed.

[on second page at top]

B. F. Ford

Answed May 8 1861

M.H.C.