James A. Henderson to Richard Yates

Toulon. Ill. May 2nd 1864.

His Exy Richd Yates

Springfield Ill.

My Dear Sir, A number of my Brother Toms friends have addressed me upon bringing him before the State Convention for congressman at large. If you can consistently, will you, use your influence to procure his nomination there, at least to give him a respectable support.

Tom is not here to work for himself and perhaps would not do so if he were. but I am well satisfied nothing, (save the success of our arms) would be more gratifying to his feelings, than to know that such friends as yourself and Genl Fuller are willing to Endorse him as a thoroughly loyal man. While a few small men are doing their utmost to cry him down, during his absence in the army. If he could be nominated his officers and men would very cheerfully support him with certificates of "good moral character" but more particularly as a loyal and faithful officer in the Union Army.

To you, I need not attempt to vindicate him. You know him well, and have

no disposition to doubt his loyalty, or you would not have offered to work for his promotion in the Army. I have written to Adj. Genl Fuller by this same mail, and should like to hear from one or both of you upon the subject.

I hope Dear Sir, you will ponder the deep interest in a very Dear Brothers welfare, which has prompted me to trouble you with this matter, at a time perhaps when matters of so much greater moment are taxing your time and energies.

With great Respect

I am Dear sir

Very Truly Yours

James A. Henderson

Henderson. James A.

Toulon. Ills.

May 2. 1864.

Solicits Govs. influence to procure the nomination of his Brother Tom for Congressman at large the next election

Answered May 18th 1864

Loomis ASC

Loomis

Be careful to get up the right sort of letter to this. do'nt know exactly what. I would rejoice to help H. but do not see how when so many of my friends desire me.