William Geilhausen to Richard Yates

Peoria May 30th 1861

Governer Yates, Excellency

Springfield Ill

Your letter of May the 7th was duly received. My wish is to serve my Country in whatever way I can be most useful. I have spent five years in the Prussian Army as Secretary to Brigadier General Von Brown. In that service I have acquired much useful knowledge in Strategy and the location of troops, and it is my most earnest wish to serve my adopted Country in some similar situation.

I humbly hope that you will render me any service in obtaining such situation which may lie within your power.

Enclosed I send you a copy of my recommendation from Brigadier General Von Brown; also such a plan as I would recommend for the defense of Illinois at the present time. I shall feel amply rewarded if it affords you even the smallest degree of assistance.

Should it be impossible for you to aid

me in obtaining such a situation as I have mentioned, will you grant me permission to raise a Company of Guerilla Riflemen, and as soon as the Company is completed will you be so kind as to furnish us with arms and uniform?

Most respectfully

Yours,

Wm Geilhausen

Late Editor of the (Republ) Illinois Banner.

Wm Geilhausen

Wm Geilhausen

Ansd by Wilson