Transcribed today:  my great-great grandfather’s words:

Camp Suffolk, Va.

Feb. 20, 1863                                                                                         D. I. Van Buren,

Col. &  Ass’t Adjt. Gen of 9 Corps d’ Army (?)

Sir,

I have the honor hereby to tender my Resignation of the Captaincy of Company H of the 130 Regiment, New York State Volunteers, which post I now hold.

It is with unfeigned regret, that I find myself compelled to take this step during the  of my country’s imminent peril; but the labors, the exposures,and the watchings of the past six months’ service here, have made such inroads on my health, that it is evident I can no longer perform the severe duties of a Captain of Infantry, either creditably to myself, or effectively for my country.  In such case, honor and patriotism alike demand, that the sword I am no longer able to wield with due energy, I resign to stronger hands. (Please find Surgeon’s Certificate enclosed.)

Praying for my Country’s Early and Honorable Peace through Victory over her Insolent Foes,

I have the Honor to be, Sir,

Very Respectfully

Your Most Obd’t Serv’t,

Ira Sayles,

Capt. Comdg Co H, 130 Reg’t, N.Y. S. Vols