Sydney Spring to Richard Yates

With A. Kitchell leter 8/20/61 With C. E. Spring letter 9/18/61

Olney Ills Augt 20th 1861

Hon: R. Yates

Dear Sir

I have this day accompanied the volunteer company we have at last been able to organize in Grayville to this place, on their route to Springfield & whilst I cannot say much for the boy's piety I can truly say better fighting materials in the defense of the Union cannot be found.

Their Captain Up de Graff is a most excellent officer & will soon drill them into good soldiers. My son Charles E Spring while making great business sacrifices to his patriotism has been mainly instrumental in getting it up, only accepting the office of orderly sergeant to prevent jealousy among the democrats though deservedly popular with both parties. Knowing that he is fully competent to fulfill the arduous duties of that office I still cannot help feeling that he deserves something better & if you could promote him in the Commisary department for which his business habits so well qualify him

or in any other branch of the service he may wish to enter you will confer a great personal favor & may rest assured you will find him an active efficient & honest officer

Respectfully Yours truly

Sydney Spring

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