Written from Richmond, Virginia. The letter requests a commission in the United States Army or Marine Corps.

Richmond May 14th Your Excellency

Dear Sir During Mr. Tyler's administration I applied for a Lieutenancy in the Marine Corps which I did not obtain on account of a want of vacancies. I now wish to apply for a Lieutenancy in either the Marine Corps or army as I understand that a regiment of mounted Rifleman are soon to be raised. You will find recommendations filed in the War and naval departments from the following gentlemen Andrew Stevenson, R.A. Scott, Chapman Johnson, R.W. Leigh Dr. Carmichael (with whom I study) and likewise from Col. F.H. Smith, Major Preston and Capt Williamson, Commanders at VA Military Institute of which Institution I was an inmate for two years. Should more recommendations be necessary I can send them immediately. Please let me know wether[sic] there is the slightest chance of obtaining an appointment. Should you be pleased to give me a Lieut. Commission I will undertake to raise a Company of regular troops. by the middle of next month and moreover I promise to have them completely drilled in a short time. The recommendations I speak of were addressed to Mr. Tyler but should it be necessary I can obtain recommendations from all the above mentioned gentlemen to testify to my competency to fill the office for which I apply. Let me hear from you as soon as convenient. I remain Your humble servant James. E. Tyler