John S. Loomis to Charles Howland

Our Soldiers will have a vote at home or in the field. We will have a Registry Law. We will memorialize Congress to provide for amending National Constitution so as to wipe the infernal evil of Slavery from our land. We will build homes for the destitute families of our Illinois Soldiers and endow Schools for the Education of their Children, and provide, if possible, more carefully than ever before for the Sick and wounded in field and general hospitals, and the record of our great and beautiful State will be illumined all over with "Acts" and deeds which will place her in the lead, in all enterprises, looking to the rapid developement of her resources, and a controlling power in North

Western and National Affairs, which her War and Civil record and her wealth and political influence entitle her to.

We cannot in any event regard Missouri as a rival. Our past history (excepting her record as a Slave State) is so interwoven, and our material interests so intermingled and identical that it is impossible to think of antagonistic differences. As in the past, we shall ever rejoice in her triumphs, and if possible, aid in giving lustre and durability to the material and political revolutions, through which you have just passed.

I have read Governor Fletcher's message and Speech, which you sent me, and Governor Yates has also. We are much pleased with them

and hope much good will result from his Administration. So favorably inaugurated.

We have given the Nation our best New Years gift, for the US Senate, and the interest and prosperity of "Free Missouri" will always find a warm friend and advocate in Richard Yates.

Your friend, Sincerely

(Signed) John S. Loomis.

Please remember me warmly to C.W. Waite Esq. He is one of our most noble spirits, and do not intend that Missouri shall steal him entirely away from us. You can tie to him. He sticks to his friends, "as with hooks of steel"

L.

Col. John S. Loomis

to Hon Chas H Howland

Mo Senate. Jefferson City

Jan 9th 1865