Henry White and John Wentworth to Richard Yates

Chicago, Oct 17. 1864.

Dr Sir

I was pleased to hear from you, as I always am when I hear from any of our Chicago boys who imitate the example of their patriotic ancestors & risk their lives in defence of constitutional liberty.

I saw your mother, brother & sisters but a short time since. They manifested great concern for you. But I told them that there was no such thing as promotion in this world without some risk; & that I considered that you would be promoted in due time if you only preserved the good character & habits that you took away with you.

Your family have many friends here; & they are all looking with anxiety

to your conduct in the war, & hope you will embrace the first opportunity to commend yourself to the approbation of your officers & to distinguish yourself in your country's service.

No young man took a better character to the war than yourself. Preserve it & the first opportunity that you embrace to honor yourself in the public service will be a glad opportunity for myself & your other friends to ask for your preferment.

Yr Obt St

Mr Henry White

John Wentworth