Irvy Gilmer Co W.Va July 29 1865
Mr Boreman [?] Sir I have belonged to the home guards ever Since the war [?] and I have never received a penny for all of my Servises for the Last 3 years I belonged to Capt J Southers Company. I Drew a gun and equipings and receipted to Ephraim Bee for then the barel of the gun Bursted to pieses, and I furnished another in its place, and the fitting cost me about $3 I Should Like very much to Keep the gun as I have it fixed up finely. If I may keep it you will please Send me [?] to get my receipt of E. Bee.
The time Paul Stephens commanded the militia[sic] at Weston Louis Co in which I live. Living farther from Weston then Eny man in the county. He sent far for me because I was an unconditional union man. And I went and Stood on picket for one week night [illegible] day. And the Rebbels could Stay at homeand take care of their harvest. and my grain Suffering I took Sick while on duty being exposed to night air and Loosing Sleep. And drinking lead watter. And paid out Several dollars for Board. [?]. I came home and could not work eny for over a week. I think it nothing more than right that I Should have Something for my Servises at the expences of rebellion or my rebel neighbors. Please write to me Soon especially in regard to the gun. I am not [?] their things but asking them as my own. For my Life and property has been on the alter[sic] of my country Ever sinc[sic] the war [?]. I ever shall be for give me the union and Liberty, or give me Death
Your True friend until death
L. G Simms
Transcription by Rob Roush, undergraduate student enrolled in Dr. Billy Joe Peyton's Fall 2010 "Introduction to Public History" at West Virginia State University