u/BrendonSC

Hello. I recently acquired an 1863 US Infantry Tactics manual. It had an inscription in the front page. Looks like a previous owner was able to photocopy it and darken it to make out what it said as it’s faded beyond reading now. Problem is, I’m having trouble deciphering the inscription.

I can clearly read “this book belongs to James B. Smith” but I believe that was an additional owner. It looks like it was initially “presented to my friend….jan 3rd 1864” but I can’t really make out the names/info there. This is the best photo I have as the photocopy was rebound with the rest of the manual.

Would really appreciate any help on this and any further information you could provide. Appreciate it in advance!