Boston July 8^th 1862

 

Lt Coln F J Parker

                       

Sir

                                    On the 5^th I rec^d a copy of letter sent by you to Adj^t Gen^l Thomas, under date of June 8^th, (you may remember your remark to me regarding his character some three months since.) the principle feature of your letter was requesting Lieut Jonathan Peirce to be mustered out of the service by Capt Goodhue at Boston where he now is, "because he is not a desirable officer".

 

            I informed you previous to my leaving Washington that if there was a desire on your part that I should leave the Regt I would do so. I have also written to you since my return home signifying my willingness to leave if you so desired. The an^s I got on the 8^th of June (same date as yours to Adj^t Gen^l Thomas) was that I must be attached to one of the Co^s now raising for the Regt. but as I was commissioned at your request to fill the position of Quartermaster I did / not see the necessity of joining any Co. here, however I was prepared to obey orders.

 

            Your letters to me at different times have not expressed any dissatisfaction at the course I was pursuing, nor have you at any time since my brief acquaintance with you given me to understand that my conduct towards you was not all a subordinate owed to a superior Officer. "You have said I was old to be a soldier." The country may yet want the services of old men who are true to her interests in preference to young men who lack principle.

 

            At your request I have been dishonorably discharged from the service. I am not surprised at any transaction, in these traitorous times, reflect; We all stand in slippery places.

 

            At your request I left my bed pillow and blanket for your use. you will have them returned to me in Boston. Until we meet again adieu

                                                                                   

Jonathan Peirce

No 239 Commercial St

 

[endorsement]

 

Jon^a Peirce

July 8^th 1862

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