M. S. Barnes to Richard Yates

Rock Island, Ills May 18, 1863

To the Governor Sir

If any more regiments are to be raised in Illinois please remember me and give me a chance.

You know I go for putting down the rebellion at all hazards -- freeing negroes and hanging traitors if necessary to accomplish that end. I make no distinction whether the traitors are to be found among us or in Dixie - hit a rebel wherever you can find him.

I would like permission to raise a mounted regiment of such men as I could pick in this district

I am [illegible] Very Respectfully Your Obt Servant M. S. Barnes Lt Col 37th Regt

Hon Richard Yates Governor

M. S. Barnes late Lt Col. 37th Reg Rock Island May 18/63

Wants to get a position if any more Regiments are to be raised . Goes in for all means to suppress the Rebellion.

Recd ExO May 21st 63