R. B. Surant to Richard Yates

Chester Oct. 4/62

His Excellency

Richard Yates

There is a man from this City, named Mr. Climan or Kliman, imprisoned at Alton for disloyalty. He has a family of small children Wholy dependant upon him for a support and no Mother living

I think he has been sufficiently punished for being a v&" fool. The Only differcence between him and his friends is that they, as soon as the State was declared under Martial law "hauled in their horses, and he was too big a fool to "Keep his Mouth shut." He is as harmless as a sucking babe, not being able to influence a single human being on earth

I would write directly to the proper authority, but as I am unknown to the officer, I write to you to interpose and have him discharged

I am with great repect

Yr. friend, and Obt Servt

R. T. Surant

S.B. Surant.

Chester Oct 4th 62

Says that a Mr Kliman is confined at Alton for disloyalty. Wishes Gov. to discharge him as he is "more of a fool than a traitor"

no authority in premises Klinman being arrested by U.S. [illegible] officer