commanding 51st Regt New York Vols
Sir
Having been always with the Regiment since the Organization of it at New York which is now over 18 months, and in all the time never have been excuse from any duty whatever and having urgent business at home which demands my immediate attention, I beg leave of asking you hereby the favor of granting me, leave of absence for ten Days
Very respectfully Your obedient servant George W. WhitmanCapt Co K, 51st N. Y. V.