Edwin Hunt to Richard Yates

Chicago, Ills,

September 19 1864

Sir,

Letters were received on Saturday, stating that General Meredith, who has succeeded Gen. Paine at Paducah, Kenty,- in a speech delivered by him before the 134th Regt of Ills Volunteers (100 day men) now at Mayfield, Kenty, said "We should Keep that Regiment there to level the present Forts, build new ones, and teach them Discipline"

Several of the Parents & Friends of the young men (some of whom are minors) have call'd on me, and requested I would write to you stating facts-

If their Col: (McChesney) now reported to be under arrest, has committed himself, the Regiment ought not to suffer for obeying orders, or his misconduct.

They are volunteers, enlisted out of pure Patriotism, and their Time was out about the 4th Instant

They wish to come Home and be muster'd out of the Service.

A great portion of the men intend to Reinlist and receive the Bounty, but if they are badly & unjustly treated, they will undoubtedly change their mind,-

The Regiment is now placed in a peculiarly antagonistic position with the Sesesh & Rebels, in consequence of the severe measures adopted by General Paine & carried out by them, as ordered.

I therefore address your Excellency and urge your interposition at Head Quarters to the effect that the 134th Regt of Ills Vols be immediately sent home and muster'd out of the Service

Apologizing for thus intruding on your time, and requesting your immediate attention to the matter.

I have the honor to be Sir Your obt. Servt

Edwin Hunt

To His Excellency Richard Yates, Governor of the State of Illinois Springfield

Hunt Edwin

Chicago Sept 19th 64

On behalf of the 134th 100 Days Men whose time is out-but Gen Meredith says he intends to "Keep them there to level forts, build new ones, and teach them discipline"-Says the boys will reenlist if promptly mustered out

Ansd Sept 24th 1864 Jno M Snyder Aid de C

(in pencil) write him what I had done - & send him copy of dispatch I rcd from Washington - Sent you yesterday & day before