John P. Boise to Richard Yates

Henry Augst 17th/64

to his Excellency Gov Yates

Sir Although somewhat advanced in life I am yet able to do something for my country in this time of her affliction and I desire to go into her service in some capacity even the most humble. It is not wise to delay in preparing for a death struggle The infernal traitors are organizing in our own state to resist the Government Let us be prepared to meet them and we have no time to spare or as the Doctors say "sero medicina parartur" I have closed my office sold my library and although poor am determined to devote my whole time to the service of my country in any and every way in which I can render her

aid. My age prevents me from being received as a private soldier or I should have been in the service long ago I did however do something in raising two companies who have been almost three years in the service and have done credit to themselves and State If there is any situation within your knowledge or at your disposal in which I can be placed I am on hand and can leave home on 24 hours notice and although it may appear like boasting I do say I can do more service than 3/4 of the men that compose our army not excepting the officers. I owe an apology perhaps for troubling you with these lines but as an old Clay whig who loves his country and has acted with you in Illinois for more than 30 years

I trust you will pardon the liberty i have taken in asking your aid to enable me to get some position in the service where I can be of benefit to the best government on earth

I am respectfully yours &c

John P Boise

Most sincerely regret that no place just now. Should there be any none whom I would prefer to serve you - will be glad to recommend you should you know of a place open which you would like

Boise. John P.

Henry Ills.

Aug 18th 1864

He is very desirous of doing something for the service of his country. His age will not permit him to enter the army as a private. Wishes some position, suited to his age & condition

Answered Aug 21, 1864