J. E. Whiting to Richard Yates

Carmi Illinois

January 28th 1864

Hon Richd Yates

Gov of Illinois

Esteemed Sir

There is a case of very much importance pending in the circuit court of this county which will come on for trial on the 3rd Monday of March next. I refer to the case of The People &c vs Michael Smith &al for the murder of Chester Carpenter. Two of the most important witnesses for the prosecution are now in the army towit Cap James H. Wright of Co E 87th Ills Mounted Infantry and Lieutenant Campbell of the 60th Ills Vols. Every possible effort has heretofore been made to procure the attendance of these two witnesses but without success. The cause was continued at the last turn of court but with the understanding that an other continuance could not

be had, so that if the prosecution fail to have the witnesses in attendance at the next turn of court, these two murders will be turned out on the community without a trial

Mr C. C. Carpenter (brother of deceased) visits Springfield for the purpose of trying to obtain your influence with the military officers commanding the two officers above named in procureing for them leaves of absence so that they may attend our court as witnesses in this important case I would be pleased if you could aid Mr Carpenter in this matter, he feels a great deal of interest in the case and in fact the whole community are feeling the importance of having those men properly prosecuted

Yours Truly

J E Whiting

Whiting J E.

Camri Jany 28 1864

A very important case in court requires some officers in Army for witness. Wishes Governor to assist him to obtain leave of absence for them.

Governor endorsed papers requesting leave of absence

Wrote letter, permit to visit Army, Feby 4 1864

Jno M Snyder

Executive Office Feby 64

Attended to

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