4
May 24^th [...]4
Private Edward C. Simms
17^th Regt. Reserve Veteran Corps
(Formerly of 18^th Ky. Infty Vols.)
Indianapolis. Ind.
Sir,

Your communication to His Excelllency Gov. Bramlette, has been referred to this office. You were doubtless in the wrong in not obeying orders to [...] There is no excuse for disobedience in a soldier. As it is now you should explain the matter to the officer whom you offended, ask his pardon, and intercession with your commanding officer to obtain your release from the guard house, and admission to the Hospital, till you can be cured, and when you have recovered entirely, you should by your alacrity and obedience to orders, show that you are a good soldier As you are mustered into the United States' service the Govenor has no power, whatever, as to your control, and directs the above advise be given you.

Respectfully
Your obt. Serv't.
John Boyle[...]