T. W. Keys to Richard Yates

With T.P. Robb letter 12/5/63

With petition concerning T.W. Keys 12/8/63

Fond du Lac, Wis.

December 8th. 1863.

Your Excellency,

Gov. Yates:

I write you for interposition in my behalf in the following case: I have been a resident of Illinois since the 27th of August,1862, and in June, 1863 my name was enrolled on the militia list in the city of Mattoon, Coles Co. where I was then teaching school, and had been since my residence in the state. In August following I made a visit of a few weeks, not exceeding seven, to this place and during my stay I was also enrolled here; I then returned to Illinois and have since been attending Rush Medical School in Chicago. On the 18th, ult. I was drafted in Fond du Lac, Wis. and on the 1st. inst. I reported to the Provost Marshal, and on stating my case, he granted me time to produce evidence of my being a citizen of Illinois and of being enrolled there; I did so and I herewith transmit you one of the many affidavits of the fact; but even these seem to be of not much avail. Therefore, I at last appeal to you for your decision in this case, hoping that you'll respond to me by letter immediately, as I wish to get back to my duties in Chicago. I have no property or claim in Wisconsin, and being an unmarried man, my residence ---- by law is where I can find avocation which for nearly one year and a half has been in Illinois, where I have been enrolled & where I am responsible as a conscript.

Please return the accompanying affidavit with your reply.

Yours Resp'lly,

T.W. Keys.

(Address as above)

Keys T W

Fon dulac Wis Dec 8 63

Has been a resident of Illinois since August 1862, was enrolled in Coles County. Went to Wis and was there enrolled and has been drafted, he encloses certificate and wishes the Governor to decide where he is responsible as a conscript.

Executive office Dec 18 63.