Nelson Mason to Richard Yates

Sterling

Sept 20th 1864

His Excellency Gov Yates

My Dear Sir

I write to call your attention to the late Lt. Col John A. Bross. I believe you knew him, and esteemed his true worth, would it be more than an act of justice to his unsurpassed bravery, to his little son, and to his memory, that his name be placed on the list of Brig. Gens.

You know how he brilliantly led that charge on the works before Petersburg, how after so many Standard bearers had fallen he seized the colors and with his own hands planted them on the Rebel works and fell, after doing all mortal could do, would it not be a Simple act of justice, though a slight reward for such a sacrifice? would it not [nerve?] many a soldier to deeds of valor to see that even though he lay beneath the sod, his memory was not forgotten by a gratefull country.

Should you see fit to make an urgent representation to our worthy President you would be gratefully remembered by many, and particularly by your humble Serv, You said to us when at Springfield last June that you would come to Whiteside & address our people, We would be very glad to see you as soon a conveniant, I am Very Truly Yours

Nelson Mason

Mason. Nelson

Sterling Sept 20th 64

Requests Govr. to make an urgent request of the President for the appointment of the late Col Bross. a Brig. Genl as a simple act of justice Wants to know if he is coming to Whiteside Co. to speak.

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