Andrew Miller to Richard Yates

Litchfield Jany. 18th 1864

To his Excellency Gov. R. Yates

Dr. Sir

I have two sons in the 80th Regt Ill. Vols. From one I learn that there is an effort making in the regiment to have the vacancy of the Cols position filled by one of the officers that are now with the Regiment. It may be none of my business, but such vacancy being filled whilst the Lt. Co., Major and the greater part of the line officers are suffering in Libby prison.

I think it an act of great injustice to say the least. I beleive it is said to be understood that whoever gets the appointment shall resign immedeately on the release of the officers that are in Libby. But it dont seeme right to me that Lt. Col. Rodgers should be cheated out of nearly a years salary as Col simply because he through no fault of his is a prisoner and some Skulking Officer who knows nothing of hardships past present and prospective

endured and to be endured by the officers and men composing the ill Starred expedition of Col. Straights. Should have the Col place There is no doubt that on the release of the Officers, but what Lt. Col. Rodgers will be the choice of the Regiment for Colonel.

Pardon this plain letter as I know Col. Rodgers was mainely instrumental in getting up the Regiment and I understand that he and Major Bates are worth more to the Regiment than all the other Officers. Having great confidence that you will do what is just in the premises, I remain

Yours Truly

Andrew Miller

P.S.

I was enrolling Officer for this County in 1862 and as yet have received no pay. My Deputies are dunning me nearly every day and as I need it very much will you please inform me whether the money is ready or not

A. M.

Miller Andrew

Litchfield Jany 1864.

Learns that a captain is to be appointed Col of 80h Regt. while the Lieut Col & Major are prisoners of war now at Richmond, Thinks it very unfair &c &c

Ansd as directed -

Jany 25th 64. Hirshbach

Answer due consideration will be give to his letter & send to Adjt. Genl. Aly

The Capt - must not be apptd over absent officers

Executive Office Jany 21, 64.