Cyrenius Wakefield to Richard Yates

With O. Waters 7/19/62

Bloomington July 19, 1862

Hon. Richard Yates, Gov. of Ill.

Dear Sir

I would like the office of Government tax collector for this district. I think Capt. Shannon spoke to you on Thursday night in reference to my fitness for the office.

I am forty seven years of age, was brought up a farmer in the state of N Y. Taught school several years then engaged in the drug and medicine trade. By steady application to business I accumulated property to the value of about thirty thousand dollars.

I have a trustworthy foreman who can manage all my present interests, having me at liberty to devote my whole attention to the office I solicit. I have had dealings nearly all over the state and my extensive acquaintance in other counties would assist me

greatly in making subdivision appointments. I have never before offered myself for office and never accepted an office of profit to the value of once cent. I have formerly had to look after too many mixed private interests and I want no office unless the public want me.

I enclose a line from a few of our citizens whom I thought you would likely be acquainted with. I find Tho. Bunn of this place had been around with a paper before me and got many important names.

Bunn is a young man, has failed in trade once and has not recovered so as to pay his debts. The citizens did not recommend his ability to give security and say he has no chance for the office. I learn he & Peter Fulsom are going to Washington to solicit the two offices of Col. and assessor.

If after considering my fitness for the office you will recommend my appointment to this office or other valuable home position you will confer a great favor on

me and I hope on the Public.

If you can not, you will not incur my disfavor for I know you will act conscientiously in the matter for the public good.

If you recommend my appointment it may be wise to send on the enclosed certificate.

I have long desired the passage of the confiscation bill and anticipated favourable results whenever it can be enforced. I was a Democrat until 1854 and was one of the first sixteen who inaugurated the Republican party in Bloomington. I feel assured its principles will yet triumph.

Awaiting your action I am yours very respectfully

Cyrenius Wakefield

C.Wakefield

Bloomington July 19

Asking recomn for Col. Of U.S. Taxes

July 21st ans & wrote letter of general rec to President.