Owen Wright to Richard Yates

Tuscola, Ills. Dec. 30th 1863

To his Excellency R. Yates Springfield Ilinois

Dear sir. in a note addressed you las week, I promised under certain contingencies to appear before you by today; but unfortunately I have not been able to reach Springfield, as yet. I was called 60 miles, to see a gentleman who is seriously ill. I hope I may be permited to write you again.

The very dangerous element of secesh in our county - (Effingham) which I, with many other good men, have been battling faithfully, has been the only cause that I can offer as an excuse for not joining the army long since: but for the last few months the difficulties have [seeming?] subsided. Now Sir, believing that nothing but my patriotism could induce me to leave an agreeable home & family, I pray you to give me an assistant Surgeon's commission having past a satisfactory examination.

Should you wish to know that I am a union man, I will forward you four of my speeches I delivered and had published.

Very truly your Obediant servant

Owen Wright

Mason Ill.

Wright Owen

Tuscola Dec 30 1863.

Wishes to be appointed Asst Surgeon in the army

Send him permit to be examined & write

Executive Office Jany 7 64.