I am writing you in behalf of Francis Bourne, who is very anxious for a commission in the National Guard, and has already sent in his application to Adjutant General Young. Francis is twenty-two years of age; a young man of splendid habits, good physique and has already proven himself a good soldier. He graduated with distinction from the Bingham School with the rank of Lieutenant. He served in the National Guard as private. and was raised to the grade of First Sergeant, and had there been a place, at the time, I feel sure he would have soon gotten a commission. I think General Young knows the young man, and if he does, I feel sure he thinks highly of him. He is of the stuff to make a leader. I feel sure that General Young will give Francis' application due consideration, but I also feel that General Young would be particularly gratified if he could find a place for Francis, knowing that you also approved. Francis is ready for anything, [illegible] anxious to go to the front and once commissioned, I feel will acquit himself with great credit. I have written General Young a letter indorsing young Bourne's application.

I see the exercises in Washington were a great success. I hope you arrived home safely. Mrs. Craig and the little man are all right, I believe. Carlyle left last night for the Pacific Coast to join the South Dakota, I believe. My old shipmate Admiral Winslow is commander in chief of the Pacific Squadron, and I shall write him about Carlyle. It does not hurt to have a friend ready to take interest.

We have had quite a day of the military here. Mrs. Vanderbilt had services at Biltmore Church for the boys, and I gathered up all the old officers I could, two old confreres in the Regular Service, and we went in a body to the church, where we had an impressive service. Mrs. Vanderbilt was very gracious, and made herself very agreeable, and the officers and men seemed to appreciate the attention. After the services, we had a parade and review on Biltmore common. Tomorrow, many of us are going to see the boys off for Morehead, and bid them God speed. It makes me feel quite like joining them, and if I can find anyway in which I can be of service, as I told you, I am coming down, that I may confer with you on the subject.

With highest esteem, I am