W. P. Carlin to Richard Yates

Head Qu 1st Div. Dept. of Work Va Cumberland, Md June 1st, 1865

Hon Richard Yates,

My dear Governor:

  Having served my country to the best of my ability through the rebellion just closed, and believing that I have done something toward maintaining the reputation of Illinoisans as good soldiers, and that I have proved myself not unworthy of the honors I have received from and through you, may I ask your influence to assist me retaining my present rank when a reorganization of the army shall take place. I have commanded a Division since the 15th of August last, through the successful battle of Jonesboro, Ga., the campaigns to Savannah, and thence to Goldsboro N.C. where sickness and self-respect compelled me to leave the Corps cammanded by Bvt Maj Gen Jeff C. Davis. From the battle of [Marquesboro?] it had been my mmisfortune to be placed under this officer, though I once (after [Chicarnanja?]) insisted on being removed from his command. But it was my fate to come under him again when Sherman had him assigned to the command of the [illegible] Corps. I don't wish to say anything more about him than is absolutely necessary, but I can prove that he has done the United States more harm than he could have done if he had held an equal command in the Rebel army. At the battle of [Newfreesboro?], when his Division was overpowered and driven back, while his troops were still under the fire of the enemy, he turned to me and said "Well, I guess the d-d abolitionists will be satisfied this time." I was so amazed that I could make no reply, but I felt compelled to mention the matter to Gen Rosecrans, which I did; but he didn't remove him from command. At [Abicamanga], he fled from the field, and was supposed to have been captured or killed, but was found three or four miles in rear of the field. I collected all of his Division after they had been counted, reorganized them, and reported to Sheridan, and marched with him to join Thomas. It was then I resolved not to serve under him any longer, and Gen Rosecrans complied with my wishes on reorganizing the army and placed me in another Division It was generally believed that Davis would not have received another command, but for the unfortunate circumstance that Rosecrans himself had left the field and gone to Chattanooga. The matter of his curring off the negroes from his column near Savannah was never fully set forth. It was a most inhuman proceeding and without excuse, and had the effect of enciting distrust among all the negroes of South Carolina. Yet, Sherman, to shield Davis, assumed the responsibility of the act, though he was not present and knew nothing of it at the time.

This is the man who has stood in my way from near the beginning of this rebellion. If justice had been done me for services rendered even under him, I believe I should have been a Major General. If I should ever have an opportunity to reciprocate the favors I have received at your hands and through your influence, it will be the happiest moment of my life when I repay that debt of gratitude.

Truly your friend, W. Marlin Bvt Maj Gen v.s. Vol