Head Quarters 1^st Brig. 4^th Div. 13^th Army Corps
Pass Cavallo Texas. February 1^st 1864.
Hon. Tho. E. Bramlette
Gov. of Kentucky
Governor:

I learn from the newspapers that you have recommended to the Legislature the propriety of organizing new troops for the defence of the state, in consequence of the withdrawal of those recently raised under the Act of Congress, from the state, for the general defence elsewhere.

I enclose copies of papers from which it will be seen that my friends in the Army are still urging upon the President, my promotion — but inasmuch as there is much doubt in my mind as to the certainty of any thing being done for me at Washington, I write to you, to say, that if enough troops to form a Brigade or Division shall be ordered by the Legislature for a period of not less than one year; and

you should think proper to tender me the position of Brig Genl., with the pay now allowed by the Army Regulations, I should not feel not only complimented by such an offer, but grateful to you for the same. I have been doing the work of a Brig & Major Gen'l for near two years &receiving only the rank & pay of a Col. The 4^th Div of this Corps has upon three occasions ^been^ placed under my command, and the papers which I enclose will show the opinions of my brother Officers as to my qualifications.

Of course, a command in my own state would be preferable to one elsewhere — & my knowledge of the country — & particularly of Southern & Eastern Ky., acquired in actual Campaigns would enable me to render more service to the state than many others who were not acquainted with the country & the people. I was in command at Mill Springs, & Somerset & engaged in the Campaign from Cumberland Ford & Gap — through Eastern Ky to the Ohio river. I trust you will regard this communication as confidential & any favors you may show you me will be properly appreciated. I refer also to Maj Genl's Grant, Sherman,

Granger, Baird, Logan, M^cPherson, M^cClernand, Ord, Hurlbut, & in fact every general officer in the Department of the Tennessee.

Truly
Your friend.
W. J. Landram Col
19 Ky Comg Brig.

P. S. It is proper to add that I had one years experience in the Cavalry service in the Mexican War — and as you doubtless remember, was commissioned Col. of Woolfords Cavalry by Genl Nelson at the commencement of the war.

W. J. L.