E. N. Bates to Richard Yates

Washington DC Nov. 14th 1862

To His Excellency

Gov. Richard Yates

Dear Sir

The accompanying letter from Co Ths G. Allen to yourself, I brought from Springfield to this City, and hoped to have delived it in person. The letter speaks for itself and plainly indicates the Col's wishes. At the time the letter was written, I did not expect to have come to Washington, but after full consulation with our officers it was thought best for me to come on to consult with your Honor, and render such service as I might be able in Securing the promotion of the Col to a Brigadiership. I am now forced to return to my Regt. As you did not arrive, and believing you would fully concur in this movement, I yesterday presented the President with letters from Senator Trumbull and others, strongly urging the promotion of the Col -

Sec Seward who is a warm personal friend of Col Allen, also assured me that he would see the President on this matter. Here the matter now stands. To you who know him well, I need not speak of his past services in our State nor need I say that from his entelligence

from his great decision and energy of character - from his ardent devotion to our cause - from his coolness and gallant bearing, under the most trying circustances at the late battle of Perryville, he will serve his county well in that capacity - If any favors are to be granted, If any more Brig. Gens are to be given to Ills. (and Egypt has had but one I think Gen Logan) I greatly hope the Col of the 80th Ills will receve the promotion of which he has shown himself so worthy

Col Allen is modest. He never yet has asked a favor from this Administration. If any thing is done for him it must be done by this friends, not by himself.

With Great Respect I remain your obt Servt

E. N. Bates

Maj 80th Regt Ills Vols