155. JAMES G. WILSON (1833 - 1914) Union brevet brigadier general who conspicuously led the 4th U.S. Colored Cavalry. A great war-date Union officer's letter, 2pp. 4to., in ink by Major David P. Jenkins, 14th Illinois Cavalry, Peoria, Ill., Sept. 27, 1862 to future Bvt. Brig. Gen. James Grant Wilson, seeking to be appointed major in Jenkins newly recruited cavalry regiment. While Wilson didn't make into Jenkins regiment, he did become major in the 15th Ill. Cavalry on Dec. 25, 1862. In part: "...In reply to your suggestion I can only say I am leaving the selection of Majors to the Co[mpany] officers. There is one gentleman now at work recruiting for the Reg with a view of...securing the support of the Co. officers for the position you suggest but there are three to select...if you could get in with two Cos in time I think it pretty certain you might get the position you desire, but you would have to get up a big excitement to do it. My Reg is...nearer full than either of the three & yet I think there will be room for two more Cos...I know a great many that are sanguine...if you think it advisable to try for a Majors commission...it would be advisable to lose no time...write me what conclusion you come to. My time to raise the Reg will be out 2d of the next month...". Near fine. $150 - 200