E. A. Small to Richard Yates

                      Galena. Nov 28. 1864

Hon Rich'd Yates.

          Springfield. Ills.

                         Dear Sir.  I have the pleasure of introducing to your favourable acquaintance, Mr John Spensley, concerning where I have written you today:  Should your Engagements permit you to render Mr Spensley any service it would greatly oblige your many freinds here as well as 

                         Your Servt

                              E A Small

Dec 5th. 1864,

I leave for the front to night. Our Regt is with Sherman and consequently we cannot reach it now. We go to Nashville. Anything you could do for me would be thankfully received. I have charge of a detachment of the 45th and will probably be put on duty at Nashville. If I could get an order to come before a board of Examinators for a Colored Regt and to report to Gen Chettain. Your obedient servt

                           John R. Spensley

                                   Co D. 45 Regt

Small E A.

   Galena Nov 28/1864

Introduces J R. Spensley of 45th Regt & requests that you render him any favor in your power.

  He would like to be examined by the Board for commission in Colored Regt.