Edward S. Curtis to Richard Yates

Nashville Tenn Feb 11th /63

Dear Govener.

I enlisted the 7th of Aug last, and, belong to Co D 75th Regt, Ill Vol. and have not on the account of bad health, performed any military duty since the first of Oct. I have been in Hospital No 7. and was, in the sick room at the Barracks about two weeks, and now, in Hosp No 23. have been here since the eleventh of Jan.

I do not seem to gain strength, and feel -

as though I ought to have my discharge.

I am not of age, and am weakly. A soldier can lay here and die, before he can get discharged unless he has got the heart disease, or, chronic Diarrahea.

My Co officers, are willing I should have my discharge, but do not try to get it. Now Dear Governor, will you do what you can, conserning my discharge and get it for me.

Perhaps you may think I am trying to play off

but what I have writen is the truth. If I could get well I would not ask for my discharge. It is of no use for me to try to stay with the Regt any more because camp life does not agree with my health.

I have not done any duty in the Regt, of any account since I enlisted, on the account, of not being able. I will close by asking you of this kind favor. or let me go home until I get well.

I remain one of your affectionate soldiers.

Edward S. Curtis.

Private.

Please answer this.

Direct to Nashville Tenn

General Hosp No 23

Ans March 5 63.

Edward S. Curtis.

Gen Hospital No 23.

Nashville Feb 11th /63.

Has hardly been fit for duty since he enlisted - asks the Gov to please send him his discharge.

Write &c