J. R. Whitaker to Richard Yates

Hare de Grace June 25/61

To His Excellency

Richard Yates

Governor of Illinois

Dear Sir

Your esteemed favor came duly to hand. I deeply regret that I have lived so long a Bachelor that I cannot avail myself of the chance you have given to procure an appointment at West Point for a Son, Alas? I am even now too single handed to have such an article. I am greatly mortified that I did not better explain myself, and in consequence have to trouble you again. The appointment I wish to procure at West Point is for a nephew (S W Pennypacker) who now resides with his Grandfather in Montgomery County Pa, and it is that district which has been filled by the congressman representing it. I think the President would not be justified in giving appointments to applicants of this State, too manny of her well fed sons, have shown a

shown a want of gratitude and patriotism. The Union sentiments can be kept stronger in Maryland by keeping a strong force of Government troops within her borders I think the camps in New York and Pa, those far from the line should be abandoned and the troops brot into this State. I have great fears that our Legislature, after heaping all kinds of insult on Gen Hicks will and, if in their power by committing us in some way to Secession, and unfortunately we have no Gen Lyon or Col Blair to make head against such an outrage. The Union men of this place have strong faith in the Government being able to put down rebellion, and in hopes that it will be speedily done, I remain respectively

Yours Truly

J. R. Whitaker

J. R. Whittaker

Asking appointment of Nephew as Cadet at W. Point.

Letter sent July 23.