B. H. Mills to Richard Yates

Upper Alton Ill Jan 30, 1863 Hon Richard Yates Gov. Ill

I called at your room when in Springfield last week for the purpose of consulting with you on some matter pertaining to our Union League but failed to see you. I had just returned from a special meeting of the Ex. Com. of the League. and on their behalf wished to get your views of the difficulties & dangers & how we could best meet them.

Measures were taken for a thorough & rapid organization of Leagues all over the State. In ten days we will have Madison Co. thoroughly organized. I shall push to work as rapidly as possible in other counties.

I need not assure you that

nothing will be left undone to sustain yours & the Genl Administration.

But we are a little at a loss what to do after we get our organizations at work, not knowing what your policy will be exactly or exactly what are the actual designs of the "Copperheads" I know your time is fully occupied, but if you could find time to give me a few suggestions they would be thankfully rec'd, & might be of great service.

The Grand Council appointed a Com. of corresponders of which I am the member for the southern portion of the State through whom information might be given & rec'd particularly the State officials

We would be glad to know how far it would be advisable to arm & the best manner of doing it, if thought advisable

Any communication you should see fit to make would be considered strictly confidential My only object is to do something to aid the Union cause in this hour of trial.

Your Obt Servt B H Mills Please suggest the names of reliable men in the Southern Counties

B. H. Mills. Upper Alton, Ill.

Called last week to converse with the Gov about the Union League but you were not in. Wished to have your views in regard as to what shall be done when organized Says in ten days they will have Madison Co thorougly organized. Wishes to know how far it will be advisable to arm. Wishes the Gov to suggest the names of reliable men in southern Counties.

Rebellion