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Head Quarters 2nd Regiment Maine Vols

In Fort Corcoran VA, Augt. 30th 1861

Sir

Your petition to Gov. Washburn for the discharge of yr. minor Son E. B. Hodgkins from the U.S. Service, together with this letter of Mr. Kittridge has been forwarded to me & received my very respectful consideration. In reply I beg leave to say that such cases do not come within my province. I have no power to discharge the soldiers under my Command. At the same time I would be willing to do anything proper for me to do to oblige two gentleman who have done so much for the Army, as you & Mr. Kittridge have done.

It appears from the rolls furnished this Regiment that Elijah Hodgkins of Milo 22 years of age 6 ft 1 1/2 inches high dark eyes, dark hair & dark complexion was enlisted at Bangor Maine July 2d 1861 by Genl. J.C. Stevens. There can be no doubt I think this refers to your son Elijah B. Hodgkins. I think it is incumbent on the recruiting officer to obtain the consent of parents or Guardians, before enrolling a minor as a recruit & if such minor is enrolled without such consent, he must be discharged immediately upon demand