Telford Burnham to Richard Yates

Chicago. Nov. 26th/64.

Governor Yates.

Sir.

You will probably remember that at the suggestion and recommendation of Mr. Scammon, I had the honor of calling upon you a short time since at the Tremont House in this city, and informed you that I felt that my attainments (humble though they were) were needed, and could be made of use to our Country in this hour of her peril. You kindly offered to recommend me for a commission to the War Department at Washington, and told me to address you a letter when I desire it. I have since talked with Mr.

Scammon, and he advises me to accept your kind offer, and also promises to do all he can for me. I have been for some time past a student of Military Tactics, and am acquainted with some of the officers at Camp Douglas, who will also recommend me.

If you will be so kind as to send me your recommendation, that I may forward it with the others to Dr. C. V. Dyer, who has promised to present it at the Department at Washington, you will do me a favor that I shall never forget.

With great respect, I am

Yours Truly

Telford Burnham

P.S. Your Excellency kept the card which I presented you from Mr. Scammon. Please direct to P. O. Box 4107.

Burnham Telford

Chicago Nov 26th 64

He requests a letter of Recommendation to the War Department for a Commission &c wants it sent to him Box 4107.