Franklin County: James C. Austin to Thomas M.
Vincent, February 16, 1863
Summary:
James C. Austin requests from Major Thomas M. Vincent a certificate of muster so
that he could be paid.
Maj. Thomas M. Vincent
February 16th, 1863
Chambersburg
Dear Sir
Enclosed I send you a copy of an order for muster (out as Captain and in as Maj.) [unclear: given] 27th of Aug. last, same date I called at Capt. Woods office + was informed by his clerk that the Capt. was absent on special duty but would return next day. I returned next day but the Capt. had not returned + was not expected to for several days. I stated to the Clerk that my Regiment was under orders to march + I was desirous to have my papers complete, he said in reply that the order for muster would place me all right in case I failed to meet with a mustering officer. My regiment marched to Sharpsburg M.D. where I was taken back + sent to Chambersburg Pa. I here remained under the care of the Medical Director [illeg.] this month when as my Regt. was in want of an officer = i having no prospect of returning health resigned. My resignation was accepted and I receive my discharge dated Feb. 22nd 1862 + in the mean time I had no appointment to be mustered.
Maj. Lyon the paymaster of Harrisburg on presentation of my pay roll + papers of discharge + orders for muster refused to pay without certificate of muster. Gen. Thomas happened to be in Harrisburg to whom he referred the case. I was ordered to find a copy of the order for muster stating the case + ask for an order to Capt. lane at Harrisburg to be mustered in as Major.
You will therefore much oblige by forwarding said order to me at Chambersburg, Franklin Co. Penna.
I am Major
Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Servant
J. C. Austin
Maj. 126 Regt Pa. Vols
Maj. Thom. M. Vincent
Asst. Adjt. Gen.
