Richard Yates to Daniel H. Gilmer

State of Illinois Executive Department Springfield Feby 10 1863

Lieut Col Gilmer

Dear Sir

Before the receipt of your letter Capt Alden had been appointed Major. I am trying to have Col. Carlin made a Brigadeer -- in that case I shall appoint you Colonel without reference to any vote.

The reason of the delay in your appointment as Lieut Colonel was that Col Dubois and others applied for reinstatement of Lieut Col O'Kean - and I waited for the result to be

known. Waiting a good while and getting no answer, (& Col Dubois agreeing,) appointed you. Afterwards authority to reinstate O'Kean came, but you had been appointed and there it ended.

Truly Yours

Rich. Yates

Copy To Lieut Col Gilmer 38th Regt Feby 12-63

Private