Richard Yates to Edwin M. Stanton

January 25th 4.

Hon. Edwin M. Stanton.

Secretary of War.

Washington City D.C.

Sir: I have the hone to request the discharge of Private Wm H. Halford of Co D. 130th Regt. Ills. Vols. Four members of this family have enlisted-two died of disease contracted in the service and the third severely wounded in Siege of Vicksburg his right arm amputated. Recently the Father died leaving his aged and infirm wife the only relative to care for Eleven helpless grandchildren. Orphans of her sons who died in the service. The eldest of these children is but nine (9) years of age. The case is the most painful one yet presented to me during the war and I would urgently request this discharge of

Wm H. Halford the only remaining protector of these children. I believe the case demands the exercise of your immediate and favorable action.

Very Respectfully

Governor