William Kennedy to Richard Yates

Mongtomery Co Ill

Buttler 7th Jan 1864

Mr. Richd Yates

Dear Sir I am settled these two years on an 80 acre lot of land which is called swamp land but it is all good tillable land and I am told that such land do not go into the list of over flowed land But could be bought from the goverment If it was not too much trouble I would wish to have your advice on it I have tried to buy it from the officers of this Co But cannot or pay taxes on it

i have 40 acres in cultivation a house & [illegible] and well and orchard set out and would like to have it for a home if I knew how to obtain it What I say can be substanciated by any or all of my neighbours

I would mention Mr. O Seward Mr Peter Berrie & Mr Orson Young I am afraid that some one may buy it after I get it all improved any information as to how I might obtain a deed or title would much oblidge your most obdt Servt.

William Kennedy

Col. H.

See Mr. Miner & [illegible] and exactly - & write immediately & caution him that some sharper will cheat him out of it if he does not act quick - Keep this letter safe from observation as there are men mean enough to take advantage in such a case

Wm F Elkin

Register

Law Office

Springfield

Wm Kennedy

Butler Montgomery Co

Jany 7th 1864.

Wants some information in regard to swamp land which he occupies

Ansd Jany 18 62 as directed