J. S. Rearden to Richard Yates

Shawneetown Ills June 1st 1861

His Excellency Richd Yates

Govr of Ills, Springfield,

Sir

I am desirous of engaing in the Volunteer Service of this my native State. Subject to a call of the President for three years or Longer, having seen Telegraphic report to the effect that you had prevailed on the President to accept the Services of ten additional Regiments from this State, and the letter circular of the Secty of War of May 22d instructing the Governors of the States to appoint all the officers from Colonel down to Lieutenants, I am induced to offer you my services either as Colonel, Lieut Col or Major feeling myself capable of undertaking and discharging the Command of either office. I was in the war with Mexico in 3d Regt Ills Vol, under Capt Lawler, now Col Commanding 9th Congressional Regiment, and to whom I would Respectfully refer your Excellency, also to Col E.D. Baker of Oregon who I believe is now in the field near Washington and to Col Jno A. McClernand of your city. Your early attention and Reply will greatly oblige,

your obt Sevt

Jas S. Rearden

J.S. Reardon

Military

Asking appointment.