Thomas W. Harris to Richard Yates

Shelbyville Ills

July 30th 1863.

To his Excellency,

Richard Yates

Gov of Ills

Sir,

I have learned through a letter that there is an intention to have certain prominent gentlemen in this State arrested, among whom are named Hon Anthony Thornton of this County. Now knowing the gentleman as I do and being an intimate acquaintance I would beg that you use your influence to stop the

proceeding as against him at least. he having to my certain knowledge for the last several months worked with all his influence to keep peace at home and keep down all disturbance---and for the people to obey all laws---and knowing too that in case he should be arrested and taken away that it would cause immediate and great disturbance and the people of this district are much attached to him and he wields a great influence---and they being easily excited would at once raise a disturbance which would not doubt take a great armed

force to quell. it is stated that he is a Commander in a secret military organization. This cannot be true for I know that he denounces secret military organization on all occasion.

You know me well enough to know that I would not intercede for a man who is an enemy to his country's cause and not a true Union man

Therefore let me beg that you use your influence in this case in Mr. Thornton's favor.

It may be that the story is all a hoax about the intention to arrest him, but for fear there should be such a

thing done, I write this to prevent trouble.

I am sir your obedient servant

Thomas W. Harris

File H.

Harris Thos W.

Shelbyville July 30th 1863.

Has learned that it is the intention of the Government to have certain prominent men in this State arrested, among whom are named Anthony Thornton. Wishes the Governor to stop the proceedings against him. he has worked for several months to keep peace at home---and knows his arrest will cause trouble---&c

Recd Ex O. Aug 1 1863