J. R. Locke to Richard Yates

Head Quarters Freedmen

Helena Ark June 1 1864

To his Excellency

Richard Yates Governor of Illinois

My Dear Sir: I have the honor to say that more than a year Since I was detaild from my Regiment (2d Ills Cav) by General Grant as Superintendent of Freedmen last November I was offered a Captaincy in the 64th U.S.C. which I accepted and was again detailed as Sup Freedmen at this Post I have in charge a [Home?] farm of 150 acres under cultivation, a large Wood Yard and Camp. The labors connected with the Superintendency have Seriously impared by health. I ask as you see from the enclosed paper, the position of A.A.Q.M. in the Freedmen Department If you can endorse the enclosed application I shall feel under many obligations. The name of Governor Yates, is in the highest repute, among our officers and men.

I am Governor with great respect your obedient Servant

J.R.. Locke Capt Co. B. 64” U.S.C. Inf & Sup. Freedmen

I know Capt Locke to be every way worthy, Loyoyal and quantified for the position sought for J. P. Post Late Col 8th Ills Infty

Locke, Cap J.R.

Helena, Ark.

June 1, 1864

Appn for the position of A.A.Q.M. in the Freedmen's Dept.

Recommendation forwarded to Col J P Post Decatur June 16 64. Loomis ADC.