NA, RRB 12/14/1864

Meridian
Decr 14/64
 
Hon. Jas. A. Seddon
Secty of War
 
Sir,
   Permit me to call your attention to a young officer, I think of peculiar merit. If I did not so regard him, I should not trouble you with this recommendation. It is Capt. Charles M. Williams now Asst. Qr Master, in the railroad transportation department at this place. I need not allude to his gallantry as a soldier, whilst in the Army, farther than to say, that I learn from those who knew him, that a truer soldier never held a musket. I desire to speak of him as a business man, in a situation of which I have personal knowledge. My location has enabled me to subject the conduct and capacity of this officer to the closest criticism, daily. I never knew him until thus brought in proximity to his sphere of action; and his ceaseless responsible toilsome and intelligent labors have attracted my attention, more my admiration and gratitude and, unsolicited, prompts this recommendation. Amid too much thoughtless inefficiency, carelessness and ???, Capt. Williams stands conspicuous for his unusual business capacity, sobriety, and faithful and discharge, not only of his own laborious duties, night and day, but for his earnest and intelligent assistance of every other official, with whom he is brought in contact. His Chief, George Whitfield, a man who is worth a thousand common men, and who is nearly always absent building and repairing railroads, declares Williams to be a man whose capacity and faithfulness are beyond praise and deserving of some appreciation by the Govt. This I ask you to give him, by this trifling promotion to the rank of Major. Within the degree of rank, nor the few dollars, increase of pay, is worth a thought. It will be a simple testimonial of his good character, grateful to himself, and deserved of his country.
Most respectfully
James Phelan
 
{On back of letter}
Richmond Jany 5/1864 {Should be 1865}
Respectfully referred to the Q. M. Genl.
F. W. Sims
Lt Col & QM
 
Q. M. Gen's Office
Jany 7, 1864 {Should be 1865}
Respectfully forwarded to the Hon Secy of War. Capt Williams was appointed Asst Qr Master May 3d 1862. The very favorable opinions within expressed as to his merits & capacity are believed to be well founded & just.
A R Lawton
Q. M. Gen.
The Q. M. Genl. does not recommend -- aloted. File. JAS Secy War
Jan. 11/65

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