Orville H. Browning to Richard Yates

Quincy, March 20, 1863

Dear Gov:

I enclose, herewith, a letter from Mrs. Cox, one of our most intelligent, influential and patriotic ladies. Her husband, Col John C Cox, of this city, has been in the service since early in the war, and is now on the staff of Genl McPherson. Her son Rowland is a youth of much more than ordinary ability, and of devoted loyalty and patriotism.

He was at College at Princeton N.J. and quit his studies to give his services to his country in the “Anderson Cavalry” of Penna: which he joined as a private.

For five days he shared the fortunes of the fight, and took his chances for wounds, and death, at Murfreesboro, where a majority of his companions dishonored their Regiment, by stacking their arms, and refusing to appear upon the field.

He is a gallant young man, and

does not wish longer to remain connected with that Regiment.

He deserves something at the hands of his state, and will do it honor if the opportunity be afforded. He wishes to serve with Illinois troops.

Is it too much to ask for him a Lieutenancy?

He certainly deserves it, and if you can bestow it I will acknowledge it as a great personal favor to myself, as well as an act of honorable justice to him.

Truly your friend

O. H. Browning

P H Browning

Quincy March 20 1863

Encloses a letter from Mrs Anne J Cox who has a son in Andersons Cavalry, is a young man of more than ordinary ability and of devoted loyalty and patriotism. Wishes the Governor to promote him to some position

Received Ex O March 24 63.