Joseph F. Wilson to Richard Yates

Peoria Aug. 4 1862

Hon Richd Yates

Springfield

Dr Sir

Mr Charles Ballance of this city represents that it was solely through his influence that I recd the appointment I now hold. If that be the case I desire to tender my resignation & beg you to accept it. If my own suffering, sacrifices and services in the cause of the Union and the recommendation of Gentlemen of influence and standing other than Charles Ballance Esq do not entitle me to the office then I say damn the office and damn the Government -

I can live without Government patronage - I have feet and legs Hands and arms left & by the blessing of God I will dig in the Earth for a living before I will owe a position to the Gentleman who claims to have secured it for me. Mr B. now says I have not capacity to perform the duties of the office. I am not as vain a man as Mr B, but I have just this much vanity, that I feel I know I can fill this office as well and with as much satisfaction as Mr B. could at any time of his life from infancy to his present advanced period of existence. If without the influence of Mr Ballance you would not conferred upon me

the appointment then consider my resignation tendered and be so kind as to accept it -

Very Resply

Your obt Svt

Joseph F. Wilson

Jos F. Wilson

Peoria

Aug 4/62

Chas Ballance says it was through his influence that secured Wilson his appointment. if so, he resigns & damns the Govt & etc

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