| Bates Division |
|
Bivouac near Atlanta 29 Aug 1864 |
| |
|
Brig Genl. A R Lawton |
| Qr Mr Genl |
| Richmond Va |
| |
| General, |
| I have the honour very respectfully to
apply to you in relation to the probable disposition of Regeml Qr
Masters and presuming on former kindness extended to me to ask your kind
assistance in the event of any material change. |
| You may probably remember me as a friend
of your lamented brother, Capt. Lawton whose intimate associate I was in
the Chatham Artillery while you was in command at "Fort Pulaski" and
through whom I was indebted to you for an application in my behalf for
an appointment in the Army. Your kind letters with others were
instrumental in procuring me my present position which I understand I
may possibly loose under the recent Act of Congress in relation to Regt.
Q. M. unless assigned to other duty. |
| Major Nooman Smith Chief Inspect Field
Transportation for this Army is desirous of having me assigned to duty
with him and for that purpose has made official application besides
writing you presumably in my behalf, and I would kindly in my own name
and that of your poor brother who I feel assured would have ??? himself
on my behalf as you to have me assigned to Major Smith, or to any other
post or duty where I could be of most service to the Department. |
| I need hardly say that I am anxious to
retain my present position, having been for two years in the ranks
beginning with the first fight at Fort Sumter, besides my experience as
an AQM having passed through the Miss & Tennessee Campaigns with Genls
Johnston, Bragg & Hood encourage me in the belief that I could fill with
credit a similar position with Major Smith or any other "Head" in the
Department with whom it may seem best for you to assign me. |
| Apologizing for the liberty in troubling
you which you will please ascribe to former favors and kindly referring
you to Lt. Col. F. W. Sims Chief Inspector Rail Road Transportation as
to my business qualifications. |
| I am |
| General |
| With the Greatest Respect |
| Your Most Obt Servant |
| Willie G Gray |
| Capt & A. Q. M. |
| 1st Battn Geo S. Shooters |