John D. Platt to Richard Yates

Warren Ills Aug 10th 1864

Gov Yates

My dear sir

The loyal people of this part of the state, view with alarm the persistant designs of men who call themselves Democrats---but who are really without a name save that of traitor to our country, and we feel that in order to resist their well organized plots---we should prepare ourselves for whatever they may have in store for us, by arming & drilling in each neighborhood & thus showing to our enemies at home & abroad that we are in earnest in what we profess---viz---the restoration of our beloved country. we therefore ask, that two hundred stand of arms be sent us by the state of Illinois for which we will be responsible for their return when all danger is over.

Our enemies are armed & we should not delay as the welfare of our state depends on a counteracting influance & that speedily. I write at the urgent request of the Loyal League of Warren.

Most truly yours John D. Platt

over

P.S. Would refer you to Hon E.B. Washburne or [illegible] H Harlow Esq. Please reply and oblige Your obt Servant

J.D.P

Col Loomis

Prepare proper requisition on Lieut Arnold to have arms sent as written requested immediately

Answered Aug 12, 1864

John D Platt to Gov Yates

Asks for 200 stands of arms to be sent to Warren to fight Copperheads, in case they make an outbreak.

Answered Aug 12, 1864 see indorsement