J. A. McNeil to Richard Yates

Paducah Ky

Sept. 1. 1863

Gov Yates

Dear Sir

Will you allow me, in behalf of our Illinois boys in hospitals at this place to enquire, as to the probability of their removal, shortly, to some point, in their own State nearer their homes. An agent, who represents that he has heretofore been acting in the interest of our boys, but who is now gathering up & transfering the Ohio & Iowa soldiers & sending them and to their respective states, has waked up in our men, such a desire to get to their own state that no thing would do them but I must write you. I wish very much it could be done.

Our poor boys have suffered every thing but death while on the lower Mississippi. Many, very many have died since they got here, a month since to day, & many more will die, unless something can be done to [send?] them home, or towards home. I have made my official to Grant to allowed them all to be furloughed for 31 days. no response. Can any thing be done. I will cheerfully

act as agent, without fee or reward if duly authorized. If in the midst of your numerous engagements you can find time to drop me a line on this subject you will confer a special [favor?] on our poor suffering boys, who already feel that they owe much to you & your noble efforts in their behalf

I have the honor to be

Yr. Obdt. Servant

J. A. McNeill,

Chaplain. U.S.A

Ansd Sept 9 -63

McNeill. Chaplain. U.S.A.

Paducah. Ken. Sept. 1st

File M

Wishes to know if the "Illinois boys." cant be removed to some point nearer home, as they are suffering greatly in the Hospitals. He will act as Agent for that purpose without fee. Has written to Gen. Grant but gets no response.

Answer

Applications have been made to have these all transferred.

Recd Ex O. Sept 3 1863