Fort Warren May 5^th 1862

Major Francis J. Parker

 

Sir—

Not having an opportunity to speak to you the last few days of your sojourn in Fort Warren, I take the liberty to address you with a few lines.

 

It is useless for me to tell you the feeling that exists in the Battalion, at loosing their beloved commander, for you Sir, are well acquainted with it. So I shall come to the point at once Sir could I not through your influence, now, as a private gentleman, be transferred to some Regiment in active service. I am willing to give up my position as Non. Com. Officer, and take a privates place.

 

I see in the papers that recruits are wanted for Gen. Burnsides command /

 

Sir—If I can't get transferred, dont you think there are other honorable ways for me, to get into active service? Please exert yourself for me, and I assure you Sir, that you wont hear nothing to be ashamed of about me.

 

I have not a friend in this world to apply to, and with you, my last hope departed from Fort Warren. If ever you resume the post as military commander again, may you have as willing and brave men to lead on as the 1^st Batt. and if you remain in private Life, may God prosper and bless you.

 

This is the sincere wish of Your obedient servant

John Hinset

Serg. Co. D. 1. Batt.

Mass. Inf.

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