Ulysses S. Grant to Abraham Lincoln, January 21, 1865

Annapolis Junction MD.

Jan.y 21st 1865

 

A. LINCOLN PRESIDENT,

Sir;

Your favor of this date in relation to your son serving in some Military capacity is received.  I will be most happy to have him in my Military family in the manner your propose.  The nominal rank given him is immaterial but I would suggest that of Capt. as I have three Staff officers now, of conciderable service, in no higher grade.  Indeed I have one officer with only the rank of Lieut. who has been in the service from the beginning of the war. This however will make no difference and I would still say give the rank of Capt.- Please excuse my writing on a half sheet.  I had no resource but to take the blank half of your letter,

 

Very repectfully

your obt. svt,

U.S.GRANT

Lt. Gen