Bangor
To the President
My Dear Sir
I learn that Genls. Mead, Sykes, Howard, Rice Griffin and others have recommended Col. J. L. Chamberlain of the 20th Reg Me. Vol. for promotion to a Brig Genl.
Col. C is a well educated man and when he entered the Army he left a Professorship in Bowdoin College.
He is a superior man who has proved himself an efficient brave and gallant officer – I take pleasure in recommending him to you favorable consideration for promotion.
You may be sure he will do honor to himself and the service.
Yours truly, H. Hamlin
Hannibal Hamlin to “the President” [Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain Collection]