W. N. Smith Compiled Service Record, M331, National Archives
Richmond Arsenal
Laboratory Dept
July 16th 1864
S. Cooper
A & I. G.
War Department
Richmond, Va.
Genl
I hereby respectfully tender my resignation as Military Store Keeper with rank of Capt of Infantry in the C. S. Army, for the reason that my pay and allowances, as such, are insufficient for the support of my family – I regret the necessity that compels me to this step.
Very Respy
Your Obt Servt
W. N. Smith
Capt & M.S.K.
Respy forwd through
Lt. Col. W. Le Roy Brown
Comdg Arsenal
____
Respy forwarded –
It is much to be regretted that necessity compel Capt. Smith to offer his resignation. His services are invaluable to this department at the present time. It is respectfully requested , if increased rank could be given him, that he be retained as Supt. of Laboratory with salary sufficient to support his family –
W. LeRoy Brown
In ch of Arsenal
July 17
____
Respectfully forwarded with recommendation that the resignation of M. S. K. Smith be accepted – He will be retained in a salary.
J. Gorgas
July 20