Files
Download
Download Full Text (16.4 MB)
Content Warning
The Charles P. McIlvaine letters were written in the 18th and 19th century and therefore may contain language that we understand today as harmful or offensive. You may encounter paternalist descriptions of Native Americans, racial slurs, or sexism. For more information, see our policy page.
Description
Request commission for nephew Francis C. McIlvaine
Date
8-5-1861
Keywords
letter, McIlvaine, Chase, nephew, Civil War
Recommended Citation
McIlvaine, Charles Petit, "Letter to S. P. Chase" (1861). Charles Pettit McIlvaine Letters. 142.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/mcilvaine_letters/142
Rights Statement
Transcript
Cincinnati, August 5, 1861
My dear sir,
In consequence of the account that Mr. Cameron has gone from Washington and left matters in the hands of the [?] secretary I fear for an appointment on which I [?]. When Mr. Cameron and I were riding with the President to the Arsenal, several weeks ago, he said “Bishop if you have a son I will give him a [Commission].” I answered my only son, capable of arms, was preparing for the ministry. Afterwards, I applied to him in writing for a [captain’s commission] for a nephew whom I love as a son, Francis C. McIlvaine of New York. Stating his qualifications: He has been for six years a [?] member of the N. Y. seventh, was with it in Washington, has made [?] matters a study, is about 30 years of age, intelligent, active, prompt, and spirited. He has been urged to take a [Captaincy] in [?] of the best N. Y. Regiment, but wishes to make the life, his permanent life and hence to have a commission in the Regular Army.
Mr. Cameron has expressed to me such attachment to the [?] of my brother Joseph (deceased) who was the author of the interval improvements of [Pennsylvania] and to whom I believe Mr. C was [?] for kindnesses and friendship, as I have requested this appointment on the ground that as he had said he would go a great way to [indicate] his remembrance of my brother, this would be a pleasing expression of it, that I believe there will be no failure, unless he should first [?] or leave such things with one who knew nothing of the above. If you can say a word, please do it, seeing that you have nothing else to do.
Yours affectionately,
Charles P. McIlvaine
Kindest remembrance to the young ladies.