|
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 |
|