Mrs. Moses C. Grant to Richard Yates

To his Excellency Gov Yates.

Sir:

You may be surprised at a stranger's addressing you, but my son, who was formerly employed in Bloomington, Ill, left a lucrative situation to enter the army one year ago. His employer was named Haines, a prominent grocer in B. He is Corporal in the Fifth Ill Cavalry Company Capt Withers, now at Helena, Arkansas. By his enlisting in that State, I am fully aware that I am entitled to no bounty or assistance from Ill. I have been a widow for a number of years and have supported myself by my needle; and I ask if it is in your power, if you see the justice of the case, if you will let me know if I could through your assistance recieve any benefit from your State. Will you be so kind as to answer, and address Mrs Moses C. Grant, Dedham, Mass. My other son is in the navy, and I have

derived no help from him. I can give you ample evidence that I need the assistance sought for. If agreeable to you, will you please answer this the earliest opportunity,

and much oblige

yours, very Respectfully,

Mrs Grant.

Dedham, Mass, Sept 29th 1862

Oct 3

Mrs. Moses C Grant

Dedham Mass. Sept 29/62

Says her son is a member of the 5th Ill Cavalry. Desires to have pecuniary assistance from the state.

none to be given