J. N. Arnold to Richard Yates

Private

Feby 18 1863

My Dear Sir

I have seen this morning for the first time the resolutions of the Legislature of Illinois in regard to the Canadian Canals. In an ordinary condition of the public mind there would probably be no misconstruction of this action. It would be regarded as it is intended simply as a conference

among comercial & business men, in regard to comercial interests of the North-West & Canada. In the present feverish & restless spirit of the public mind, & after the threats of many secessionists that the North-West would set up for itself, it is liable to be misunderstood & misrepresented to our prejudice.

We must have increased

facilities for transporting our agricultural products to the Atlantic. We need the Enlarged Canals of Illinois & New York. We Shall [have?] them, if we persevere & are discreet. We need the Canadian Canals also. In organizing this Commission, I respectfully suggest that you have an eye to both these great necessities of the North West. I have strong hopes of Carrying our Canal bill next Session, possibly this. This

Canadian project. may if properly directed be our aid rather than our injury. But you will readily [perceive?] the liability in the present condition of affairs, to misconstruction & prejudice. This you can prevent to a great extent, by the organization of the Committee.

Your Very Truly

J.N. Arnold