George L. Stearns to Richard Yates

Boston Jany 16th 1865

Dear Sir

It having been determined by

the friends of Radical Reconstruction measures in

the rebel states to propose Gov. Andrew for a seat in the

Cabinet. I ask your cooperation not from political

but antislavery motives. It will not be necessary to

state that he has already been true and efficient

in this direction, his record is before the country, and

needs neither eulogy or apology. Neither is it necessary

to show you that he would carry great antislavery

strength to Mr Lincolns administration, that is also

apparent.

In addition to those considerations, his extensive

legal acquirements, large and accurate business ca-

pacity, his facility for cooperating with those who are

associated with him, the capacity for receiving friendly

advice from all who approach him, and of making his

decisions with care and deliberation, with a persistant

determination when the decision has been made, mark

him as one of those most eminently fit to control our

national affairs, in any Cabinet office the friends of

freedom may elect to propose him for.

I trust you will receive this proposition as of na-

tional rather than sectional importance to be urged

particularly at this time when the country requires the

direct aid of its best men to meet fearlessly the great

questions of "Reconstruction," the amendments of the constitution and the remodelling of our finan-

cial system. Thereby correcting laws and usages that

growing out of a long period of chattel slavery, have

fastened on our policy to the detriment of republican

institutions all over the world.

If you agree with me in the propriety of this movement

please write to your senators and representatives in

Congress and take such other course to forward the

application which has been already been made, as

in your judgement will best aid the object we have

in view.

The formation of the Cabinet is now the pressing

matter upon the President and we shall find im-

mediate action necessary to secure the object we have

in view. Let our friends move at once.

Respectfully

George L. Stearns

H. E. Richard Yates

Gov. of Illinois

Springfield Ill.

Stearnes Geo. L.

Boston Jany 16th 65

Wishes your aid and cooperation

in a movement to get Govr

Andrews a position in

Mr Lincolns Cabinet.

Eulogizes Govr A. and

asks your advice &c

Abstract