S. A. Paddock to Richard Yates

Private

Princeton July 20th 1861

Dear Sir:

Can you and will you get me a commission as field officer in one of the new vol regiments. I do not want nor ever did to command a regiment but was and am yet only desirous of the rank of Lt Colonel or Major. If I should get that and see service it would be time enough to think of the other.

For reasons not necessary to specify I wished to be in the front and to see real service. In this I have been disappointed and unless you assist me shall be again. I do not ask this as having any claim on you, but simply because I could not rest satisfied without one more

effort to compass the objects which took me to Chicago to see you just before the issuing of your proclamation. Then, and for some time after, I supposed that everything would turn out according to my, and I have no doubt your, desire, but the events of Camp Yates resulted adversely.

I speak of a Lt Colonelcy or a Majority as a preference, but as I do not desire a position for its rank or emolument, solely or chiefly; a staff appointment which would send me to the front and permit me to be mounted, would enable me to do what I wish.

Please excuse my pertinacity and believe me yours

Respectfully

S. A. Paddock

Hon R Yates &c

S. A. Paddock

Application for office

filed July 27th

no answer