Benjamin H. Grierson to Richard Yates

Private

Hd Qrs 1st Cavalry Brigade La Grange Tenn. Jany 17th 1863.

Hon Richd Yates

Governor

Springfield Ills

Governor,

I write to you in confidence - believing that you will cheerfully grant any reasonable favor I may ask. Knowing you are well aware my heart does, and ever has beat true and warm for you.

If you think me worthy, I wish you to use your influence with the President or the appointing power to obtain for me a Brigadier's Commission, with as favorable Rank as possible. No doubt many Colonels now commanding Brigades will be promoted, and should I be fortunate enough to be among the number, I do not think I would ever disgrace the position, or fail to pass muster with the Brigadier Generals around me. I had some military knowledge before entering the Army, and I hope nearly two years constant active service, has

not been entirely lost upon me. I am now in Command of the 1st Cavalry Brigade 17th Army Corps, Consisting of

     6th Regt Ills Cav Vol.

     7th   "    "       "    "

And 2nd " Iowa " "

numbering total agregate near 3000 men, but the presence here of some Cavalry Colonel who would out Rank me might deprive me of my command, and I would like to be placed in a position where such a thing could not take place. Enclosed is a copy of a letter which Genl Sherman unsolicited wrote to Genl Grant, and I believe every General of my acquaintance would speak well of me. Hoping that you will at once do all in your power for me in this matter, and that I may yet be in a position, where I can at least in part repay you for the favor and kindness you have ever shown me. I am, Governor,

Truly Your friend

B H Grierson

P.S.

Should I receive the appointment, referred to, I would like to have Lt John G Grierson my Brigade Q. M. Commissioned by the President as Quarter Master, with the Rank of Capt. also Lt. Samuel L. Woodward my A.A.A.G. commissioned as Asst. Adjt Genl., with the Rank of Captain

Hastily yours

B. H. Grierson

Done Feby 2nd 63.

Col. B. H. Grierson

LaGrange Jany 17 63

Wants Governor to use his influence to have him promoted Brig. Genl. Encloses recommendation of Maj. Genl. Sherman.

Write strong letter & write written