Single folded lined letter sheet headed: Miners (sic: Minors) Hill, Dec. 1 st 1862, written by 2 nd Lt. Hartwell Freeman, 40 th Mass. Infantry to his father, reading in part: What do you think of my obtaining a position on the Staff of some one of our Generals? I am not discontented with my present place, on the contrary, I like it very much. It is the life that I like to lead. Only there are four reasons that I would urge as why a position on a staff would be more pleasant to me. First there s a chance of my being turned out of the Regt. On the plea of incompetency, but, in reality, to make way for favorites. Second, there is no chance of promotion, or at least a very small chance; as the officers are promoted according to the date of muster, and I am almost the last Lt. That was mustered. Third, the ill will of the company towards me, which cannot be kept from showing itself except by the fear of the guard house. Fourth, the knowledge that there is a person under me, that is working and wishing for my place, and those over me that are willing to help him when there is a chance. Besides these there are other reasons quite as good. I shall associate with my equals in birth. I shall have a horse to ride. I shall be thought more of. I should like the rank of 1 st Lieut. On the staff, but would take a 2 nd Lieutenantcy with relish. I want you to think about it and give me your opinion. I shall be more likely to get the position before than after I am turned out of the service. What would you advise me to do. What influence can you bring to bear for me. Do you hear of any chance any where. I want to rise during the war if I can. From the staff it is easy to get a commission as a field officer. There are field officers out here not much older than I. This is confidential, not to be made known. Write me as soon as you can and let me know about it. Love to all. I write in haste. From your aff. Son Hartwell. From a group of letters recently found in a Kentucky estate.