Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Endorsement on application requesting change of assignment
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01048 Author/Creator: Lee, Robert E. (1807-1870) Place Written: Camp near Culpepper, Virginia Type: Autograph endorsement signed Date: 11 November 1862 Pagination: 1 p. 25 x 20 cm Order a Copy
Lee denies the request of a soldier, Graham H. Simrall, to transfer to Gen. Morgan's command in order to be near his family. Lee cites the "dimunitition of this army" in denying the request. His response is written on verso of letter of William Preston Johnston to the Secretary of War, requesting the transfer.
Confederate States of America
Executive Department,
Richmond, Va., Octr 18 1862
Hon. Secty of War,
Sir:
Within please find application of Graham H. Simrall for transfer from 16th Mississippi Regt. To Vol. John H. Morgan's cavalry Regt. Also his description list, the application is approved by his [illegible] & Regimental Commanders & the papers also show that he is a citizen of Kentucky. He is the son of the Hon. H. F. Simrall of Provisional Gov't of Ky.
Very respty
Yr Obt. Svt.
Wm. Preston Johnston
Col. & A. D.C.
[endorsement]
A.G.
Application granted will continue in service with the regiment he is now with till 20th Novr at which time his transfer will be made.
Q.A.C.
A Svevy
Oct. 20 /62
Oct. 17 1862
L. 993
Col. Wm. Preston Johnston
Enclosing appl. Of G. H. Linrall of Ky for transfer from 16 Miss Regt. To Col. John H. Morgan's Cavalry regt.
One Enclosure
Respy returned to Col. Johnston who by reforming to Para 139 Army Regt. will --- the necessity of obtaining the Consent of the Dept. Commr. Genl. Lee to this transfer.
By Commd of
Secretary of war
Jasper S. Whiting
Major A A G
Head Qrs. Dept N. Va
Camp near Culpepper, C Ho
11 November 1862
Respcty returned to Col Johnston A.D.C. The diminution of this army is objectionable. Understanding the reasons that operate upon individuals to get to their homes, if they are accorded to individuals they should in like manner be accorded to companies & regiments; & the reduction of the army would be great. Mr. Simrall seems to have been born in Miss & is in a regt. from that state. His transfer seems to be objected to from his Colo. up & I cannot recommend it.
R. E. Lee
Genl.
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