Transcript of Eleanor Thompson's Letter to Jefferson Davis, Jan. 14, 1863

Letter written by Eleanor Thompson, the future wife of Harper Carroll, to Jefferson Davis in January 14, 1863 requesting that Harper Carroll be made lieutenant in the Confederate Army.

Historical Background: Eleanor Thompson was the younger sister of Caroline Thompson, wife of Charles Carroll, Harper Carroll’s brother. Her sister, Alice, called Carter, would become the second wife of John Lee Carroll. Thus, three Thompson girls married three Carroll boys. Eleanor would become Harper’s wife on June 18, 1863. In the letter, she refers only to Harper as her “friend”. Harper Carroll would be made aide-de-camp to Richard Stoddard Ewell and promoted to Lieutenant in May, 1864.

It appears from the tone of the letter that Eleanor had met Jefferson Davis. Her father, Lucas Thompson, was a Circuit Court judge in Augusta County, Virginia and the family moved in high circles.

Mr. Davis.

Dear Sir.

I am extremely desirous that a friend of mine should be promoted, and I know of no one but yourself, who has the ability to promote him; if I did, I think I should prefer making a request of my President than of any other man in the world. The young gentleman before you, is a Marylander, who has been in the service for twenty months, has fought in every battle on the Potomac, he is brave and good, has but one motive for action; duty, and but one hope in fighting; success, for his cause. I mention his qualifications not that his promotion should be based on merit; all of our soldiers are meritorious, but that you may feel, if disposed to be generous, your favor will not be bestowed on an unworthy object. Gen Fitzhugh Lee gave Mr. Harper Carroll permission to go over to Maryland with Col. Leslie and the Marquis of Huntington, he is there at present—and is of course perfectly ignorant of this application. How charmed he would be on his return to find himself, Lieut. of Cavalry in the P. A. C. S.? (illegible)!

Mr. Carroll has been with Gen. F. Lee and I suppose I could get letters from both Gen. Lee and Gen. Ewell; but I know neither gentleman and shall prefer the favor I ask to be extended no farther than yourself. I will vouch for my friend. Mr. Sheffry of the house, has promised to vouch for me. I hope Mr. Davis will pardon this interruption? on his very valuable time, and in granting this favor he will give pleasure and do his country “good and not ill”.

Very Respectably,

Eleanor S. Thompson

Jan. 14, 1863