M. G. Atwood to F.A. Hoffman

[Seal] Capital, $1,000,000. Losses Paid $700,000. Mutual Indemnity

Office of the Illinois Mutual Fire Insurance Co., Alton Aug. 23, 1862.

Hon. F. A. Hoffmann, Lieut Gov. of Illinois Springfield

My Dear Sir: - Ever since the escape of the Prisoners from this Military Prison, some considerable claim has existed here in regard to guerilla bands from Missouri. Our Common Council have asked the Governor for Cannon, and our War Committee have asked to have troops stationed here as an additional protection. I have also written to the Governer personally, and to Secretary Hatch, upon the subject. Yesterday I received a letter from the Governors Secretary, John Moses, Esq, saying that the Governor desires further information as to whether the danger mentioned is still apprehended, and desires to know as to the condition of things in Alton, generally. I wrote a hurried note to the Secretary, yesterday; but deeming the matter of great importance, I have concluded to make a more extended reply. I enclose the same to you, with the request that you will hand the same to Gov. Yates, after

reading it with such suggestions as you may deem prudent & advisable under the circumstances. I do not think that our citizens are inclined to be alarmed without cause. I know that other points in the State are calling upon the Governor for protection. I know, too, that his hands and head & heart are all full - and that it seems almost like an imposition to call upon him for any thing more at this time. Being a member of the Council & of the War Committee, I am in a position to know the real feelings of our citizens. We do not desire to get up any unnecessary alarm - but we all feel, (or those who have the interests of the city at heart,) that we are liable to be destroyed in a Single night. McGoffin said the City ought to be burned. Both McG & Sweeny promised to rescue the whole, when they had made good their escape. There are now 1100 or more confined here. They are in constant Communication with rebels outside - & it cannot be prevented. Dr. Thos. M. Hope is said to be constantly Stirring them up - & promising them a speedy release, through the successes of his Southern brethren & says he shall soon be Military Governor of Illinois! Hoping that you will interest the Governor in our behalf, I remain Yours, truly -

M. G. Atwood