Allen F. Hopkins to Richard Yates

Near Atlanta Georgia

August 14th 1864.

To his Excellency, Governor

Richard Yates, of Illinois,

Knowing fullwell the high Estimate you place upon the soldiers of your country, and of the state of Illinois in particular, I feel that I may safely approach you in the atitude of a humble soldier, and ask (1) one question, - with full confidence, that it will be satisfactorially answered, by the "soldiers friend." Viz.

Are the soldiers of the great State of Illinois, the defenders of our beloved and blood bought country, to be permited, to vote for the individuals, who are are to represent them in both State and Nation, or are they to be allowed no vote, no voice in the premises?

Very Respy. Your Obt. and humble

servant, Allen F. Hopkins, in behalf of the 116th Regt. Ill. Vol. Inf.

Hopkins A. F.

Near Atlanta Aug 14th 1864

Wants to Know if the Soldiers are going to be allowed to vote.

Aug 30, 64

Ansd.

H