Coalsmouth
Kanawha County West Va
Sept 7, 1864
Col
GW Brown A Gen
West Va
Dear Sir Yours of the 22 militia is recieved. With provision return for sept. My men has volunteered in the US Sirvice untill I have only 20 and only 16 affective men.
I would Respectfully suggest to you and by you to his Excelency Gov Boarman that it is scarcely probable that the Co can be useful to such an extent as to justify the continuance of the organization
I of course will not draw on the requisition sent as it is for nearly twice the no of men that I have.
I will settle with the government at any time that I am directed to do so
But purmit me to say that while I am riting my pride is stung by seing a group of Rebels passing by and hearing them rejoyce the my Co is broken up and yesterday morning 3Ms. from hear robed Some Boys of provisions that they were taking to some work hands having stolen three Horses almost in sight and a Co of Horsemen hear drinking and horse racing and the Rebs are gone unhurt.
Respectfully youre sirvent
R Brooks Capt Scout
Pleas send me blank rolls at youre earliest convienience.
R Brooks
Coalsmouth
Sept 7 1864
Brooks Capt S.
Transcription by John Morrison, undergraduate student enrolled in Dr. Billy Joe Peyton's Fall 2010 "Introduction to Public History" at West Virginia State University