S. C. Blake to Richard Yates

Chicago May 27th 1861

Hon. Richard Yates

My Dear Sir - Learning you were to be in Washington in a few days I take the liberty to solicit your aid in securing the acceptance by the War Dept of the "Yates Phalanx" a regiment which has been formed for a number of weeks and for which I have reasons to believe you feel much interest.

Govenor I can say of my own personal knowledge that a finer set of men have not

been mustered together since the war began. The regimental and company officers are, most of them, men of military experience and of undoubted character; four of the Captains were through Mexican War and another was an officer in the army on the continent of Europe and has seen service in seven pitched battles. And the men, too, are able-bodied and stalwarts; able to endure and willing and desirous to fight for their country.

Now dear Gov. can you tell me, why in the

name of our countries cause these men have been kept out of the field of conflict. They are true and have been ready and anxiously waiting to be accepted.

Will you have the kindness to assist the friends of the Phalanx who are in Washington in getting it accepted; by so doing you will confer a great favor on some of your warmest and truest friends in our city. Tell the Sec. of War to send them to the thickest of the fight and he shall never regret it.

Your Obt. Servant

S. C. Blake

Dr. S. C. Blake

Military -

ans'd