F. T. Sherman to Richard Yates

Camp Wool Martinsburg Va, Aug 12th/62

To His Excellency Richard Yates Governor State of Illinois Springfield Ills

Sir I have had the honor to receive this day your letter of appointment of myself as Colonel of one of the Board of Trade Regiments being raised in the City of Chicago. I accept the position, being duly sensible of the responsibility of assuming so high and honorable a place in the military of our beloved state. It shall be my endeavor to merit so high a mark of your esteem and trust, and by acts, not words sustain the enviable reputation of Illinois soldiers gained on many bloody battle fields during this rebellion. I will at once report to you as soon as I receive my release from the War Department from my present position as Major in 12th Ill Cavalry Regt. I thank you from my heart for this great honor conferred on me by you and will leave to the future to show whether your confidence in me was misplaced.

I have the honor subscribe myself Yours Respectfully Major, F. T. Sherman 12th Ill Cavy Rgt.

Major F. T. Sherman Martinsburg Va. Aug 12. 62.

Acknowledges receipt of the Governors letter appointing him to Colonelcy of one of the "Board of Trade" Regts.

Cheerfully accepts and proposes to report immediately for duty. Returns thanks for the honor conferred &c.