Cyrus Edwards to Richard Yates

                                Woodlawn Nov 20th 1864

Hon R. Yates,

                   Dear Sir,

                                I exceedingly regretted my inability, from ill health, to attend your meeting at Alton_ and I regretted it still more when I heard of the outporing of the masses & its glorious results _ You have, indeed, done noble work and God grant that you may reap the richest rewards for such labors & sacrifices-

                                 In view of my extreme debility, from disease & the infirmities of old age, as well as because I think that justice to Southern Illinois demands it, I am induced to ask of you the favor to add to the committee on Agricultural College, the name of the Rev. Dr. Daniel Read, President of (illegible) College.  He is an able man, and has devoted

much time & attention to this important question _ I know that he will present before the committee a map of most valuable information, and enlighten them by many new & interesting views of this subject if he can be heard

                                   In order to give weight & efficiency to the action of the committee, I shall propose that_ after we have received all propositions, and have done up and moulded into shape all the work before us_ a full & free direction shall be had, with open doors, inviting the whole legislature and all others to attend the meeting.

                                    I pray you to accede promptly to my request and thereby greatly oblige

                                                            Your friend

                                                             Cyrus Edwards

Edwards Cyrus

Woodlawn Nov 20/64

Friendly letter- complimentary &c.

            Ansd

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