Anson S. Miller to Richard Yates

Office of Anson S. Miller, Judge Court House

Rockford, Ill, July 27, 1865.

Hon. Richard Yates,

Jacksonville

Dear Friend

News as to friend Dougherty has just come to hand. He is absent in Western N.Y. for his health. You know he sold out to Hyatt & others. Had his health been good he would not have done it. I hope to see D. on [illegible] him soon and will then write you again.

Miss S. J. Vance of Pecotonica in this County whose letter you enclosed to me is a girl of ability and worthy.

She intended to have you here 4 [illegible] but were too late. Being engaged in Rockford I could not have the pleasure of hearing you at Elgin. Our people are much alarmed at the re-construction operations in the South. Rebels are getting power. We expect that our Senators

will advise with Pres. Johnson in whose patriotism and ability we have full confidence and prevent if possible any injury to this Republic.

If we permit the rebels and Copperheads to do [illegible] artifice and intrigue in civil matters what they could not by arms - now after we have subjugated them - "We aint smart" No No! Congress must hold the powers firm in the hands of the government till all things are made right in the South. [illegible] secure by a constitutional amendment - universal suffrage. This must succeed universal emancipation. So far the rebels and friends have succeeded in elections [illegible]. But I hasten, do your duty you know the danger of this crisis.

Yours as ever

Anson S. Miller

Hasten please write

Thanks for your home reception and proceedings. ASM

(other side of letter)

Anson S. Miller

Rockford Ill

Dougherty is in NY for health. Will see him and write again. Indorses Miss Vance of Pecotonica. Talks on the subject of Reconstruction, Rebels getting too much power.