William A. Riley to Richard Yates

Nachusa Ill Apl 4/63

To His Excellency

Richard Yates

Dear Sir,

I take the liberty to address you for the purpose of gaining some information for a friend who is now in the Union Army. Do you intend or wish to raise, or recruit, any more cavalry within Our State? and if you do would there be a possibility of an officer, who has shown himself worthy and efficient in time past, and who will come to you well recommended, by persons of undoubted integrity, changing from a Missouri Volunteer regiment, to an Illinois Regiment. His reasons are pride of his own State, and the actions of her volunteer soldiers, being a native, and resident of our noble state and hence proud of deeds, and a name, which he wishes to emulate.

Hoping you will excuse me for so abruptly addressing you, and that you will be pleased to give me a reply

I will remain

Obediently yours

William A. Riley

Nachusa Ill

ansd Apl 13 63

Wm A Riley

Nachusa Ills April 4 63

Wishes to know for a friend if there are to be raised any more cavalry in this State, and if so what are the chances for an officer to get a position who has distinguished himself

no

Recd ExO April 8 1863