C. Ballance to Richard Yates

Peoria, August 2nd, 1863.

His Ex. Richard Yates,

Springfield, Ill.

Dear Sir,

Mrs. M.B. Davis lost a son at Vicksburg, whose body she wishes to recover, and to aid her in that operation, she desires me to inform you who she and her son are. I have known Mrs. Davis for more than a quarter of a century, and her son, who fell at Vicksburg, since he was a child. He enlisted in a company raised by Col. Wehle and Capt. Stevens, which composed a part of the 77 regiment. Ill. vol. Both Col. Wehle and Capt. Stevens assured me that he fell fighting bravely for his country.

Mrs Davis was the wife, and her son was of course the son of Samuel H. Davis, who for a number of years edited & published one of the best whig papers in the state.

If there is any way in which you can forward the views of Mrs. Davis, you will confer an obligation

On Dear Sir,

Your obt. sev't.

C. Ballance.

sent Recommendn & answer to Mrs M B Davis

Ballance C. Box 1112

Aug 25 - 63 - Chicago

Peoria August 2 1863.

Encloses a letter from Mrs Davis of Chicago - who wishes the Governor to aid her in recovering the remains of her son who was killed at Vicksburgh. Says she is very poor and has not all the means. She is the widow of Saml H Davis who was the publisher of the best Whig paper in the State.

Recd Ex O. Aug 2 1863

Write proper letter & transference

Ballance