Charles P. Mattocks Transcript Regarding Gookin

Head Quarters 17th Maine Inf.
Jan’y 18th, 1864

Respectfully Returned -----

In reply to the within request I have the honor to state, that promotions within this Regiment are not made upon civil recommendations. Without casting any reflection upon Ser’t Gookin who is a good soldier, I would respectfully state that the charge of a deserved promotion being withheld implies a severe reflection upon the judgment of his Colonel, which perhaps is not the quickest mode of securing the promotion of this man.

Chas P. Mattocks, Major Commanding 17th Maine Infantry