Richard Yates to D. M. Whitney

Copy.

State of Illinois

Executive Department

Springfield Sept. 18th 1861

Dr D. M. Whitney

Dear Sir

I have for some time been anxious to ascertain the condition of the Illinois Troops now in the service of the United States and to that end have determined to appoint a Commission to personally visit the troops for the purpose of contributing as far as possible to their comfort and well being.

Preliminary to the appointment of such Commission I desire to obtain information touching the condition and wants of said troops and for that purpose i request you to proceed without delay to Rolla Mo and vicinity and report to me in writing at your earliest convenience the result of your examination together with such suggestions as you may deem important to further the object proposed.

In doing this I do not wish to interfere in any way with the officers

in command, but as far as possible to secure mutual cooperation for the benefit of the patriotic soldiers of Illinois

Very truly Yours,

Richd Yates

Governor

Letter to Dr. D.M. Whitney.