Dated “Washington, March 24, 1863.” Addressed to “Your Excellency”. 2 pp. in ink on lined paper, 5” x 8. Exhibits fold-marks, lightly faded, while remaining entirely legible.

Joseph [Guiseppe] Osbole was a 40 year old Italian emigrant who was mustered as a Private in the 101^st New York Infantry, 10/29/1861. He was discharged with disability, 10/19/1862, at Alexandria, VA.

This document is a letter obviously dictated by private Osbole to accompany a letter written in Italian by himself requesting a position at the Treasury department. Presumably the “Excellency” to whom the letter is addressed is not President Lincoln, but more likely Secretary of Treasury Chase. Reverse page government docket notation: “Guiseppe Osboli / some position /AB. April 8, 1863. File W.D.”

Text: “Your Excellency…With these few lines, an Italian document addressed to Your Excellency is enclosed, written by Guiseppi Osboi, an Italian by birth. He enlisted in the 101^st Regiment of New York Volunteers and after a service of 14 months, he obtained a discharge for disability.

In his letter he states various things he has done for the cause of the Union, and to his present wants and pecuniary distress, and he requests Your Excellency to employ him in the Treasury as a watchman or otherwise in anything in which a good knowledge of the English language is not required, as he does not speak English perfectly well. Whilst in the Army he has studied over the discipline and management of our troops and has made several useful observations in which if attended to would render our army much more efficient that it has hitherto been in supporting this wicked rebellion.

He requests your Excellency again to assist him in his poverty, by giving him an employment under Government, and to read the Italian letter he sends with these lines.”

Interesting letter on behalf of a disabled Italian veteran seeking Treasury Department work in Civil war Washington. Invites further research. In protective sleeve, accompanied by documentation.  [JP]  [ph:L]

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