J. C. Whiting to Richard Yates

Carmi Illinois July 23rd 1864

Hon Richd Yates Gov of Illinois

Esteemed Sir

I see that the President has called for 500,000 troops to serve for one, two, or three years as they may desire, and I feel somewhat like going into the service again but would greatly prefer going into my old Regiment, besides the men and most of the officers are very anxious about my return.

Now if I should raise two or three hundred men as permits to the 87th would they not be credited to the state under the present call and could not the order accepting my Resignation be set aside and I be re-instated as Col of the 87th in as much as no one has ever been appointed in my place. I

would suggest that by the time I could get the recruits mustered they would only have about a year to serve. I have been out of the Regiment about eight months and the boys have all the time been anxious that I should return Will you have the kindness to give me your opinion in relative to this matter. The regt needs the men very badly and I doubt not but that they would be much more efficient in the 87th than if mustered into a new Regiment

There is considerable excitement here on the subject of Guerrillas or horse thieves who seem to have a regular organization.

The Radical Democracy of this County drill every Saturday so I am told I saw them drill one day myself they have frequently been asked as to their objects but so far have told no one what objects they

have in view. while they may not intend an open out-brake I am satisfied that their objects are not at all commendable

Yours Truly

J C. Whiting

(PS Please let me hear from you

Whiting. Col. J E 87th

Carmi Ill July 23 1864

Wishes to recruit for the 87th and be restored for Col.

Ans as directed Aug 20.64

answer fully