J. M. Hosford to Richard Yates

With Harman G. Reynolds letter 8/11/64

Geneseo, Henry County, August 9th 1864.

Gent.

The Bearer, Col Harry McArthur, will start this evening for the South for the purpose of finding and bringing back with him his Son, Capt F H McArthur of the 9th Illinois Cavalry, lately severely wounded in battle.

It will probably be necessary for the Bearer to take with him a Military Pass, or at least some evidence of his loyalty and of his object, and at his request I write you, respectfully requesting you to aid him as he may require, and hoping that he may not be delayed in route to his suffering Son.

Both Father & Son have from the very commencement of the rebellion done all in their power for the Union Cause, and they are certainly deserving of every favor which can be shown them now.

I remain, Gent, Very Respectfully Yr obt svt

J. M. Hosford

Late Major 112th Regt Ill Infty.

His Excelcy. Gov Richd Yates

or Gen Allen C Fuller,

Springfield Ill.