19th New York Battery & U. S. Army Artillery General

Item LTR-422

Description

2 page original Civil War soldier's letter written in period ink and war dated.

Headquarters Inspector of Artillery, U.S.A.
Washington, November 12, 1863

My dear General,

Much obliged for the commission for Lieutenant Carl Berlin (Royal Artillery of Sweden), which is just received.

I forward it to him today to Hd. Qrs. Army of the Potomac, where he has been serving continuously (at my request) on the staff of General Hunt.

This young man is genuine and not of the tribe of adventurers of whom England and Continental Europe have sent us so many.

What has become of the appointments in 19th New York Battery, recommended by Captain Rogers and approved by me? Your note of 10 days ago stated that they had been made that day. They have not yet been received either by me of Captain Rogers.

Please forward them, as the Battery has now only two officers. It is entitled to 5.

Kind regards to Mrs. Sprague and Mrs. and Miss Worth.

Yours very truly
William F. Barry

P.S. If possible, I beg you will keep all “outsiders” out of these field batteries. It is very discouraging to deserving Sergeants of whom most of the New York field batteries have always one or two straining every nerve for commissions.

Lt. Gouverneur Morris (of 6th New York Foot Artillery) lately appointed 1st Lieutenant in 19th New York Battery, has not yet joined or reported by letter. Do you know where he is? He will be recommended, “to be dropped” unless he joins or reports by letter.
W.F.B.