Erastus Wright to Richard Yates

Springfield Illinois 11th June/61

His Excellency R Yates Gov. of Ills

Dear sir

May I, as an old setler

having long observed and considered the various material

which compose the political character of Illinois, be permitted

to suggest the name of Gov Koerner of our state for

the Hon. station of U States Senator in place of Hon. S. A. Douglas

deceased = Among the numerous aspirants mentioned

I acknowlede my ignorance in perceiving any superior claims

in the former Democratic party merely for their allegiance or loyalty

to their country, in the hour of trial. "The Dread Ordeal,"

in their manifestation of Loyalty, which was no more than

Duty. I say, the urging of their claims for promotion

on this head merely, In my opinion, reflects no

credit on their Loyalty or integrity =

If Merit comes into the account The Quiet

Honest, Industrious, German Element will not

be overlooked. Their Antecedents for the last 20

years and their late manifestations of Patriotism

and Loyalty are good guarantees of worth and Reliability

It is said a wise man will take his overcoat and umbrella even

in a fair day But in a stormy day, none so foolish as to

go without them - Our National troubles are

not ended far from it and it yet may be amongst

the most important events to have reliable help in the

right place In my view of the picture in

all its bearings, not only in the past, but the growing

future there is great propriety in regarding with

favorable consideration the German Element which is

destined to wield a powerful influence in this Nation -

In the elevation of Hon G Koerner or some

worthy one of that Nationality The idea of Sectional

or party lines would be mainly obliterated and the

consciousness of merited approbation duly [appreciated?]

I am Sir with due

consideration Your Most Obt

Erastus Wright

Erastus Wright

as to Senator