William S. Post to Richard Yates

Memphis, Tenn. April 25/63

Governor Yates:

I have been appointed by Maj. Gen. John A. Logan Sanitary Agent for the 3d Division. I am now in Memphis by his Order, approved by Maj. Gen McPherson, looking after "Sanitaries." By procuring a liberal supply of these things, the health of my Reg - the 81st Ill - & indeed that of the whole Division is greatly improved. The health of the men in the Army has never been so good as at present, & their spirits never so buoyant since we entered the Service of our country to fight.

Disaffection, you are well aware, Sir, is being banished from the ranks of our Soldiers, & a high-souled & lofty patriotism animates the breasts of the noble Sons of the North West to do or to die for our beloved land & her cherished institutions. The Policy of the Administration with regard to the "Contrabands" is universally approved & the patriotic & earnest Governor of Illinois - the idol of the Soldiers & the pride of the State - is given great credit & praise for doing a vast deal to bring about the present condition of affairs. No two men stand higher to day in the estimation of our Soldiers than your Excellency & the Governor of

Indiana. Every where the familiar name of "Dick Yates" is spoken with profound respect & ardent love. Your State papers & epistolary correspondence, in the estimation of all intelligent & well-read men, rank you as one of the very ablest Statesmen as well as one of the very noblest patriots in this mighty nation. Future generations will rank your name on the brighest pages of our country's history in this grand & awful time. In conclusion, Sir, permit me to ask you to remember especially the 3d Division - Gen. John A. Logan's - in the bestowal of your Sanitary favors.

Your obt. Servt.

William S. Post

Chap. 81st Ill. & San. Agt. 3d Div.

William S Post

Chaplain 81st Regt

Memphis April 22 1863.

Has been appointed sanitary agent for the 3rd Division - by Genl Logan - compliments the Governor for his patriotism & devotion to the cause - hopes he will remember their Division in his distribution of Sanitary Stores.

Recd Ex O. April 24th 1863.