Benjamin C. Swan to Richard Yates

Chaplains qrs. 131st Regt. Ill. vol.

April 15th, 1863

To his Eccellency

Richard Yates

Governer of the State of Illinois,

Sir,

I request the favor of an interview with you if all convenient and consistent with your other duties. This request may seem strange to you, with your knowledge of the affairs of our Regiment. I am under arrest and cannot leave the limits of the Regiment.

I would suggest that you also see Capt. Woods an aged, experienced, & worthy man, & also Capt. Herrod, in every respect as a military man superior to any other in our Regiment.

This note I send from convictions of duty. With the highest regard for you personall approval of, & your noble efforts officially, I remain

Your Obedient Servant

Benj. C. Swan,

Chaplain of the 131st Reg. Ill. vol.

Benj L Swan

Chaplain 131st Regt Ill Vol.

Requests the favor of an interview with the Governor says the request may seem strange he knowing the condition of the regt. and he being under arrest cannot leave his quarters Suggests also that the Governor see Capt Wood and Capt Herod.

Recd Ex O. May 21 1863.