Stephen A. Hurlbut to Richard Yates

June 21, 1861

Dear Governor

Your special letter of commendature of my special friend & crony L. S. Church is recd. Your wishes would largely control my action. In this case they only add impetus & obligation to my own.

I have so far as I can do - given Church his choice between the Quartermaster & Commissary of Subsistence. He will not do for Ass. Adj. Genl which is a purely military office & he does not wish to lie. As to that office I am in an exceeding quandary. It is positively essential for my

peace of mind & success that the appointee be a thoroughly military man. He is the Executive officer of the Brigade, & on his accuracy method & skill very much depends. As I told you strong pressure is being made for H. S. Fitch but I have no knowledge of his military ability. Capt Pitcher writes that he is pretty well instructed but I learn his instruction if any is from Col. Eaton.

I shall hold the matter in abeyance until I hear who constitute my Brigade

S. M. Preston is the best military man in these parts but you ought to make him Colonel of the 15th and as you

ought to, I suppose of course you will.

It would be good policy especially if Church goes, & I could find a White Democrat of competency, to appoint so as to balance

These things however are for the future.

In the mean time be assured that I recognize my deep personal obligations to you & mean to live to repay some portion

Yours Ever

S. A. Hurlbut

S. A. Hurlbut