Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 8 [ Sept. 12, 1864-Apr. 14, 1865, undated, appendices].

Hon. Secretary of War. Executive Mansion,
Dear Sir: Washington D C Mch 17th. 1865

I have long thought Col. Lewis B. Parsons ought to be promoted, and intended it should have been sooner done. His long service and the uniform testimony to the ability with which he has discharged his very responsible and extended duties render it but just and proper his services should be acknowledged, and more especially so since his great success in executing your orders for the recent movement of Troops from the West.

You will therefore at once promote Col. Parsons to the rank of a Brigadier General, if there is a vacancy which can be given to the Quarter-Master's Department,2Open page and if not, you will so promote him when the first vacancy occurs. Yours Truly A. LINCOLN