W. G. Wheaton to Richard Yates

Chicago Januy 15th 1863.

His Excellency Richard Yates

Governor of Illinois -

My Dear Sir

I notice that a move is being made in the Legislature for the appointment of a Rail Road Commission or Board - Such a Commission with proper powers granted may be of great use to the public not only in preventing abuse in over charges but compelling Railroad Cos. to Keep their roads in safe running order. This matter has been Canvassed considerably by Railroad men and the system adopted by some of the Eastern States to some extent. I write you this letter to ask if such a law should be passed why you will not

I think such testimony as may be perfectly Satisfactory to you can be presented in regard to my Capacity and integrity -

Should there be no probability of such a law and my appointment to the place, Can I not secure your influence and a little personal exertion to get me a position as Engineer on the proposed "Ship Canal." I am sorry to trouble you so much but having been out of business for some time it becomes allmost impossible for me to succeed without the aid of some friend - and even then it appears I must wait until every body Else is Served -

I was exceedingly well pleased with your Message and trust you will stand firm by The cause marked out.

You must not fear of any lack of support by the friends of our Country which may be called for. Every man with whom I have talked are allmost anxious to fight the traitors here at home first and then if necessary go south upon the same business - Making clean work as we go along

Hoping to enlist your interest in my behalf

I am as ever

Truly Yours

W.G. Wheaton

of Peoria

P.S. Please let the Gov see this

W.G. Wheaton of Peoria

Chicago Jany 15 63

Wants to be appointed R.R. Commissioner under the provision of the bill just introduced in Legislature Wants Gov's influence to be appointed Engineer on the proposed Ship Canal.

Law not passed.

A civil application