A. Claybourn to Richard Yates

Chicago May 16th 64

To his Excellency governor

Yates or gen. Fuller -

Dear sirs the union League of North Chicago are very anxious to obtain a 2 1/2 or 3 Inch Howitser for the purpose of firing salutes on Certain occasions, and understand that you have the Charge of a Number of old candemed guns Now at Cairo or Springfield we thought that we would make application to you for one. If you will give an order for one to be sent to my Care I will be responsible for it and garrantee its return when ever called for -

If you will be so good as to let us have one we would be glad to have it to fire a salute on the taking of Richmond - which we hope will be in less than ten days

Allow me to Congratulate you on the good-news from General Grant -

I remain yours very resptfly

A. Clybourn

Clayborn A

Chicago May 16 64.

Wish to obtain for the Union League a 2 1/2 lb Howitzer for firing salutes &c

Write him fully - See Crowell

Answered June 15 '64 No guns of calibre he wants or larger at State Arsenal Regrets &c&c Loomis ADC