Hugh Lamaster to Richard Yates

Fulton Centre Ill

Augt 19th 1861

Gov R Yates Springfield Ill

My Dear Sir

I have received several letters within the past few days informing me that a certain Ex Shff of this County (D I Waggoner) was at present at Springfield and it is conjectured by our friends (and all Union men are) that he was trying to break into the Paymasters department of the Army, I presume you are acquainted with him for fear you are not; I will give an introduction He is a sly cunning schemer without a particle of Patriotism in his composition, he would never admit that Mr Lincoln or any other Republican can or ever did a Patriotic deed to prove this I will state one fact, of which I have proof of the most reliable kind The Peoria resolution that reads thus "No compromise with traitors while in arms against the Government" He said in the presence of many reliable men that no one but a fool would vote for that resolution Govr we want Patriots now; not Partisans such as this Waggoner Keep an eye on him for his true character I refer you to every Union man in Fulton County

After my return from Springfield I addressed a note to you saying to you that if a vacancy (and you thought me competent) I would be pleased to get an appointment in the commissary department I was prompted to ask this favor from the fact that my age forbid active service & believing that I might serve in that capasity; I am at present not engaged in any business and would like to have something to do that would help me I am somewhat embarrassed but not so that I despair of geting out of difficulty if this unhappy war closes soon as I think it will. I expect If I live until the 1st of next March (probably by the 1st day) to see & hear of the Stars & Stripes floating over every foot of territory in all the States East West North & South

let me hear from you & believe me as ever your friend

Hugh Lamaster

P.S. I regret to bore you but I could not refrain from doing so on this occasion. If I am mistaken as to his movements It will do no harm. I will again say keep your eye on him. He may succeed in getting some shaky union men to recomend him; but no true Patriot that is acquanted with him will endorse him. H L

Hugh Lamastre

For position

Fulton Centre

Enter on book

Wants Quarter Master's place.