It appears that Colonel Gano's request for leave was granted, but I cannot confirm that he was allowed to take with him the remnants of his two companies. I would greatly appreciate if someone could verify Gano's leave and taking the two companies with him back to Texas. Please cite source.
Thank You and God's Blessings,
Lanny K. Smith
Gallatin, Tenn.
Nov. 6th, 1862
Genl Breckinridge
Dear Sir,
The two original companies composing my Squadron have benn merged into my regiment. They have been in constant service of the severest kind since last Spring and are so much reduced in numbers. I wish to visit my family very soon, whom I have not heard since April last. By taking these two fragments of my co.s with me they can recruit visit their friends, fill up their ranks and being in a milder climate will suffer less. Our absence will be about eight weeks duration. Genl Morgan consents and begs me refer the case to you. The remaining eight co.s of my regiment would be left in charge of Lt. Col. Huffman & Major Thios. Steele. I am stified if you can you will grant their request. They have done their duty nobly & would return to their ranks with fresh vigor. Please letme hear from you at your earliest opportunity.
Yr friend & Servt
R. M. Gano
Col. cmdg regt
Morgan's Brigade
CSA'
** On the margin of Gano's letter appears:
Dear General,
At Col. Gano's request I write a few lines to signify my approval of his desire to fabor his old companies. I am satisfied that the granting his request will result in inestimate good to our cause.
Ae ever Dear Friend
Thos. Steele
Major Gano's Regt.
Source. National Archives, M331, Compiled Service Records of Confedeerate Officers and Enlsited Men....