Peeples & Ridgway to Richard Yates

Shawneetown Aug 27, 1862

Hon Richard Yates

Govr of Illinois

Dear Sir,

Col John E. Whitings Regt has arrived in Camp, and it is a source of great pleasure to us to say to you that this is we think the finest body of men which have left this part of the state. The companies are all full and overflowing, and the men are all large: very few if any boys. in fact we can say without fear of contradiction that this is as noble a Regiment as ever went into the field to defend the "Stars and Stripes" It would make your heart swell with pride to have this splendid Regiment pass in review before you: These men show by their countenances that they mean work and they enter the service to prosecute the war in earnest: Col. Whiting is idolized by his men, today submitted his claims as Col. to a vote of the men and officers and was elected by acclamation. He will make a gallant leader for such a gallant Regiment. We hope you will see that they have all they are entitled to.

Your friends

Peeples & Ridgway

Peeples & Ridgway

Shawneetown Aug 27 62

Express their satisf at Col Whitings regt & hope that Gov. will see that they have what they are entitled to

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