Charles C. P. Holden to Richard Yates

Land Department

Illinois Central Rail Road Co.

Chicago August 17, 1865

Hon Richd Yates

Jacksonville Illinois

My Dr Sir,

Your favor of the 4th with recommendatory letter for my brother was duly received, but as a recommendation for his appointment as Asst. Assessor had in the mean time gone on to Washington he did not use the letter. [And?] this morning his commission arrived as Asst. Assessor for the 1st Div. 1st District Ill.

The strong and noble letter he will retain and for him I thank you for it. He in common with the 200000 soldiers which Illinois has furnished to help put down the late rebellion will [ever?] remember with gratitude him who said "Illinois demands the right to do her full share in the work of preserving our glorious Union from the assaults of high handed rebellion, and I insist that you respond favorably to the tender I have made" words like the

above and uttered as they were in the darkest day of our proud States history will live forever. It was a demand that Illinois should have the right to place 15 to 20,000 more men in the field when all looked dark and gloomy. As an Illinoisan I cannot express to you my feeling for the part you took as our Chief Executive during the late War, you, however do know that we stood by you, and at all times, and especially when you said to those Wabash Legislators go home. The oration (printed copy) delivered by you at Elgin July 4th I received from you last week for which I am obliged.

Very Respectfully

Charles C. P. Holden

Charles C. P. Holden

Chicago Aug 17 1865

Thanks you for letter to his Bro. who has been appointed Asst. Assessor of 1st Dist. &c Compliments your great ability &c &C