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each time interrupted the recommendation, & the vacancy has been left in hopes that Lt Nichols would overcome his habit to such a degree that he could consistently be promoted.

Mr. Nichols is a brave & energetic officer, & these good qualities have made us more lenient with him than we should otherwise have been.

I gave him a strong commendation for cavalry service in the belief that a new sphere of duty might give him a better opportunity to reform & with the conviction that his peculiar dash & fearlessness fitted him for that arm of the service.

Lt. Col. Gilmore now comd'g. the 20th says he is not prepared at present to recommend Lt.