J. N. [McCent] to O. M. Hatch

Vandalia Ills Aug 3d 1861

Hon O. M. Hatch

Springfield

Dear Sir

I take the privilege of addressing you for the purpose of securing your influence in favor of J. McIlwain of this place to the post of Major in Col Smiths Regiment. Mr McIlwain is a good Republican, did good service in our County in the last campaign, was elected Major of this Regiment at Decatur at its organization some weeks since. It has been whispered here that some secret influences are at work to prevent him from

being commissioned by the Governor. Mr McIlwain has no experience in military matters but can learn as fast as any one.

Our county is certainly entitled to some field officers as we have sent some 5 companies.

If any influence is used against him it will be by some personal & political enemies

Mr McIlwain was fairly elected & I think that any opposition he may have will not be from the Regiment itself but from outsiders almost entirely. I have no doubt Mr McIlwain will if appointed fill the post with honor and credit to himself & the Regiment.

Hoping you will feel disposed to lend your influence in his favor

I remain Yours

Most Respectfully

J N McCord

P.M. Vandalia