Rhoba Benson to Richard Yates

Woodstock Nov 22nd 1862

Gov. Yates,

Sir with a heart full of grief, and anxiety, I seat myself to address you in behalf of a dear son; who is confined in the Hospital at Louisville K. Y. of a wound received at the Battle of Perryville. I know of no one to whom I can appeal in his behalf, but to you. I feel that you have done much, and may have power to do much more for the relief of the sick and wounded soldiers from this State; I appeal to you therefor in his behalf as well as my own. Believe me that I feel as none but a mother can feel.

My son entered the army one year ago last Sept. is a member of Co. H. 36th Ills Infantry Wallace Benson by Name; has never asked for a furlough; and would not now accept of one if he could be of any service to his country. I appeal to you as a mother in his behalf Do Sir use your utmost endeavor to return him and more to his friends; who care for him, and will do more for him, that can be done for him where he is. With great anxiety I await

Yours Truly, Rhoba Benson

To His Excellency Richard Yates

Gov. State of Illinois

Ansd Nov 26/62

Rhoba Benson

Woodstock Nov. 22, 62

Wishes to have her son Wallace a member of 36th Regt. sick at Louisville either discharged or a furlough granted to him