J. Nelson Brockway to Richard Yates

Springfield Aug. 26 1861

His Excellency Governor Yates

Dear Sir:

As when I called upon you this morning I found you so ill, I did not say to you, all that I wished to say. You will therefore excuse the liberty I take in addressing you. As I told you the "hard times" has compelled me to dispose of my paper and printing office at a ruinous sacrifice and with almost discouragement and despair I have looked into the future to discover if possible where I am to land, to use a sailor's phraseology. I well know, or at least can imagine the numerous applications that are made to you for positions and and the perplexity in which it must oftentimes involve you. And here let me say that I shall respect you none the less should you fail to do me a favor of the kind I wish

Allow me to address you Governor, in the same manner in which all men of the common feelings of humanity prefer to be addressed whether occupying a public or private position. Since I was 12 years of age I have been obliged to depend upon my own resources and having had until for the past few years but pore health my way has not been extremely smooth. I merely state this to show you how much of fortunes favors I have known. Securing my education by labor after and before "school hours" and during vacations I believe I know the energy necessary to be carried into any pursuit in order to accomplish any important object. Now Governor had I disposed of my political principles last summer for money or had those in whom I confided used that

influence for me to sustain me that they promised and that I had reason to expect after aiding and assisting to elevate them to public positions, I would not ask you to assist me at this time. If you could aid me to obtain a situation where I might obtain a salary sufficient to sustain myself and family and give me an opportunity to pay of a few demands against me, I would feel just as I think you would feel were you a young man in my situation - truly grateful. Should I obtain a position as quartermaster of a regiment or any other, I will try and do my duty honestly, energetically and faithfully. Do not recommend nor appoint me unless from what you know or can learn of me I am competent. I write this between hope and fear but I rely

upon your kindness and forbearance. I ask as a favor that you will let my application or at least my motives for making it remain alive with you. Hoping that you may be speedily restored to good health and that I may hear from you I remain

Your Most Obedient Servant

J Nelson Brockway

Belvidere Ill

[sideways on page] J Nelson Brockway

Belvidere

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