L. Kent to Richard Yates

Alton Ills

July 22nd 1864

To His Excellency Gov Richard Yates

Sir

I have the honor to submit the following statement and to ask your official aid. Of the old 18th Ills Inftry only about one hundred and eighty men reenlisted or less than three fourths which deprived them of their regimental organization, They are now stationed at Little Rock Ark, Leaving about three weeks ago that these men had signified their intention to be assigned

if possible to the 29th Ills Inftry. I addressed a Communication to Genl Canby Comdg Division of the West asking to have that portion of the regiment ordered to report to me for assignment,

That regiment as you well know was raised in the same portion of the Country as the 29th, are connected in many instances by ties of blood and besides there has always existed between the two Commands an intimacy and attachment I have seldom if ever seen. You Knowledge of the matter accompanied by a request that the consolidation might be

effective would probably very materially aid me in my wishes,

Let me therefore respectfully request you to address Maj. Genl Canby and if you can consistently ask him to order the Consolidation of the remaining portion of the 18th Ills Infty into the 29th Ills Infty vet vols, I am confident that such an arrangement will not only enhance the interests of the service but will meet the cordial approval of all command

I have the honor to be

Sir with great respect

Your obt Servt

L Kent Col

29th Ills Infy

Vet Vols

Kent L Col 29th.

Alton July 22 1864,

Has learned that the old 18th wishes to be consolidated with 29th, has written to General Canby. Wishes the Governor to aid him if possible -

Col L. If the consolidation were made would not the 18th be entitled to Her Colonel? & Kent would not like this?

See me about this

Answered Aug 10. 64

Loomis

ADC