W. E. Withrow and others to Richard Yates

                      Macomb Illinois Decr 8. 1864

His Excellency Richard Yates

Gov. of State of Illinois

Through the activity of Some of the late Mr Wm H. Roudolph's friends Frank E. Fowler has gone on the Mississippi River in quest of the Murderers of Roudolph, & we have information that through the aid of detectives he has every prospect of arresting part or all of them.

    But Fowler himself is annoyed by inquiries & arrests, by the authorities amongst whom he is Stationed. We desire you to grant him a commission or appointment as detective.  Please grant him if possible by return mail Such appointment.  His name is Frank E. Fowler.  Send as early as your convenience

will allow to T. M. Jordan Mayor of the City of Macomb

                        Very Respectfully

                                 W.E. Withrow

                                 (C.K.?) Wheat

                                 L. M. Jordan

                                 Chas Chandler

P.S. We desire Secrecy of the closet character as these arrests are much desired in Macomb

Withrow W.E. & others

Macomb Dec. 8/64

About the murder of Randolph. The villains are being brought to Justice

Hirstback

  I would like to see him appt'd Detective?  Who does it? Attend to

This man has since been here Recommended to Col baker

                                    W