W. K. Miner to Richard Yates

Fidelity Jersey Co. Ills.

Aug 17th 1864

Governor Richard Yates

Dear Sir

We are invaded by a lawless band of gurrillas and bushwhackers, the Country is full of them they are seen daily patrolling our streets in squads of from two to a half dozen, thefts and robberies are daily occurences, they commit their depredations upon our peaceable unsuspecting citizens, at night and then scatter to their places of rendezvous before the citizens can be gotten togeather to apprehend them. They are becoming more bold and desperate every day

and unless some effectual measures are adopted immediately our Country will be laid waste. Now we want a company of regular organised soldiers to act as a patroll guard. they should be well equipped mounted and commanded by some of our returned veterans of whom there are quite a number in this neighborhood who are eager for an opportunity to make a display of their prowess and break up these lawless bands of marauders. So far as we lack returned veterans the company can be filled up with energettic young men. A company of that kind and for that purpose

can be raised in twenty four hours, that will keep this and the adjoining Counties in a comparative state of security, but they must be regularly enlisted officered commissioned equipped and paid by the Government, Now if you can furnish such a company the arms and accoutrements and secure them regular pay and rations from the Government I will guarntee that a company shall be raised that will keep them down in this section of the State I have no doubt but fifteen or twenty companies of this discription can be raised in the southern part of this State, and if

judiciously placed in different localities where they can be concentrated at short notice if necessary that would keep this part of the State in comparative peace, it would also relieve the Government from sending troops here from other points. Now if it is within your power to grant us the facilities required we will commence opperations and organise immediately

Will you please answer by return mail as we have no time to loose. And oblige very respectfully yours

Your Obt. Servt W. K. Miner

Miner, W. K Fidelity Ills. Aug 17th 1864

Says that their part of the country is overrun with marauders, guerillas & Bushwhackers. Wants a company of veterans if possible, well armed equipped & mounted - organized there to preserve peace. It can be done in 24 hours if authority is given. Thinks fifteen or twenty companies can be raised in southern part of state and do great service

Augt 30 64

Refd. to Gen Paine & Returned. Attended to

[HL?]