A. A. Smith to Richard Yates

Head Qrs 83d Regt. Ills Vol

Ft. Donelson Tenn. April 15, 1863

Hon. R. Yates

Dr. Sir,

I have the honor to acknowledge the recpt of a Package of your excellent Message of Janny 5, 1863, directed to Col. A. C. Harding. I have had them distributed among the men for which they are very thankfull as a large number had never had an opportunity of reading it. Your message will not be read however, as an answer to the Copperhead lies they have been told upon you for they have not been believed in this Regament.

I am very respectfully your obediant servant

A. A. Smith

Lieut. Col. Comd'g

Lieut Col A A Smith

Fort Donaldson April 15 1863.

Acknowledges the receipt of a package of the Governors message and has distributed them among the men

Recd Ex O April 28th 1863.