Richard Yates to Abraham Lincoln

June 23rd [186]3

His Excellency

Abraham Lincoln President

Washington D.C.

Dear Sir:

This will be handed you by Thos B. Collins,

Esqr. a resident of Cass County in this State, who,

desires a position in one of the Colored Regt's now

being raised or already in the service.

Mr Collins served as Second Lieut in the 71st Regt

Illinois Vols (three months men) He comes to me highly

recommended by our mutual friend Hon H E Dummers

State Senator of that District as a highly intelligent

and loyal man and a gentleman entirely

competent to fill the position he seeks.

I am happy also to be able heartily to endorse

Mr Dummers recommendation, and to request

an appointment for Mr Collins. if it is in

your Excellencys power to grant the same

I am

Most Respectfully

Your obed't serv't

Richd. Yates

Governor