Washington D.C. May 1, 1862

Joseph Meixell, Esq:

Lewisburg, Pa:

Sir

Your nephew

John J. Clark enlisted in Captain Hammers[?] Company of our Regiment under the supposition that he would become an officer of the Company in which he was disapointed by the Captain he is now doing duty as Orderly for the Colonel which position is little better than that of an upper Servant. My object in addressing you is to ask you to use an influence which I understand you have with Hon. Eli Slifer to procure a better position for your nephew.

A vacancy has occurred in the Company Officers caused by the promotion of Captain Hammer[?] to the Chaplaincy of the Regiment and the promotion of D[?]. B. King the former first Lieut. to the position of Captain it is now proposed to take a private from the ranks and make him first Lieut. of the Comp.

If you will use your influence with Hon Eli Slifer and induce him to ask his excellency to commission Your nephew as 1^st Lieut. of Company B. Colonel L. B. Purce's[?] 12^th Penna Cavalry - You will oblige more than one of his friends in the Regiment

Truly Yours

H. C. Pala[?]-

Adjutant

12^th Penna Cavalry.

[Verso]:

Jos Meixell

May 9^th/62

Lewisburg, May 9,

Col Slifer,

John J. Clark is an active, intelligent young man, my wife's nephew. I have had no personal Knowledge of him for four or five years. If you know the gentleman recommending him, and can rely upon his opinion, any aid you may render in his promotion will be a favor to many who wish the young man well.

Jos. Meixell