Richard Yates to Edwin M. Stanton

983

October 6th 3.

Hon. Edwin M. Stanton

Secretary of War.

Washington City D. C.

Dear Sir.:

In a conversation with Governors Tod and Morton on the first day of this month, I learned from the former that Ohio had been furnished by the War Department with 45.000 stand of arms, and Indiana with 25.000 stand of arms, with accoutrements &c for the militia of those States. and that those arms are now in the hands of their militia.

I am at a loss to understand such a discrimination against Illinois, especially when I have repeatedly urged upon you

the necessity of being prepared here against threatened insurrection.

I am now told, by letter, that the 10.000, I applied for (supposing it useless to apply for a larger number) will be sent to Captain Potter, subject to orders.

I had applied for them to be sent subject to my order.

I do not wish to find fault, but it has been complained of me, that Illinois was not prepared for the difficulties which seem ahead of us as Ohio and Indiana. I could bear the taunt well enough, if I were cowardly enough to shut my eyes to the dangers in the way. Should you, also, have to call on Illinois for more troops (as you will have to do) why should her militia not be undergoing the training, to fit them as soldiers in the field?

Respectfully Yours.

Richd. Yates [illegible]