N. P. Banks to Richard Yates

Headquarters, Department of the Gulf,

New Orleans, Feb 5th 1864.

His Excellency,

Governor Yates,

Springfield, Ill.

Sir,

Colonel H. M. Day of the 91st Illinois Volunteers, has been in service in this Department since the arrival of the 13th Army Corps. He has been a most efficient and able officer, satisfying the demands of the Government, and winning the respect of all his associate officers. He led the advance into Brownsville, upon our occupation of the Rio Grande, with 150 men, and discharged important and delicate duties in the first organization of that post which will prove of great advantage. I concur in the recommendations which have been given him for his promotion to higher command, with great pleasure.

Permit me to express to you, and to

the people of Illinois, my grateful acknowledgements for the great assistance given by all the troops of that State. If the Regiments could be recruited to their minimum or maximum number, I should esteem it of great importance to the public service, and accept it as a personal compliment and favor. Accept my thanks for giving me an opportunity to concur with you in the approval of Colonel Day's services.

I have the honor to be,

With much respect,

Your obed't Servant.

N. P. Banks

Major Genl Comm'd'g.

Banks, Genl N. P.

Dept of the Gulf.

N. Orleans Feb 5th 64

Recommending Col. H. M. Day