Eliza J. Walker to Richard Yates

South Pass, Union Co Ill

Sep 28, '63

Honorable Governor Yates,

I a few days ago got consent from my Father to become a nurse in some hospital where many of our Brave Boys are suffering from deseas and wounds, My Father is to old to be a soldier and My Brothers are scarce fourteen so our family cant have the honor of one of them shouldering their musket in defence of the "Rights and Liberties of our Country; (for which we are sorry;) and we live out in the Country where we have but few oppertunities for our Country and her noble defenders My Sister and I formed a plan that I should go as a nurse and she would stay at home and take care of our dear Mother, and Father, But after I got their consent I dident know, and no one could tell me who and where to write in order to get in. I had almost given up the plan in dispair, when the bright idea dropped into my mind to write Governor Yates, the man

which has done so much for his boys and see what he will do for you, It is through love for my Country and her suffering soldiers that I offer my servis, and humbly ask of you to do the best you can for me, With God as my friend and a determination to do what is Right (and gain the approbation of My Parents) You shall never no never feel ashamed of the girl whom you sent as a nurse.

Do for me the best you can and oblige,

Respectfully Yours,

Miss Eliza J. Walker

Box 4

Walker Miss E. J.

South Pass Union Co

Sep 28 1863

Wishes to be employed as nurse in some hospital.

Answered Oct 7th 1863.

Loomis ADC.

Ex Office 20 Oct 1863