O. H. Browning to Richard Yates

Quincy, May 25, 1863 Dear Governor

Mrs Carlin, the wife of our mutual acquaintance Wm H. Carlin Esq, of this City, will deliver you this, and I bespeak for her your kind Offices. She informs me that her husband was arrested by military authority some ten days ago, and taken to St Louis where he is now in prison. She also informs me that the charge against him is general disloyalty, the truth of which charge she positively denies. Whether he is loyal or disloyal I do not and cannot know, and all I can say upon that subject is that I know of no act of his inconsistent with his fidelity to his government.

But whether loyal, or a traitor, he is entitled to a fair and speedy hearing and a discharge if not shown to be guilty of any violation of law.

His family consists of females alone, his wife and daughters, who are unprotected in his absence.

Mrs Carlin, who is a most estimable woman, is of course anxious for the release of her husband, and visits you to solicit your interposition and aid, and I take the liberty of asking that you will aid her so far, as, in your judgement, may be compatible with your duty, and the interests of the country.

Very Truly your friend O.H. Browning

File "B" (IR) Browning Hon OH Quincy May 25 1863

Wishes the Governors assistance in obtaining the discharge of Mr Carlin who was arrested for disloyalty

Recd Ex O. June 15 1863