Thomas S. Mather to Richard Yates

Office of Chief of Artillery,

Head Quarters, Department of Susquehanna,

Harrisburg Pa., Nov 5th, 1864

Governor

At the time you left here you perhaps remember that I told you that I would be in Philadelphia on the Saturday following to hear your speech but unfortunately for myself I was ordered away on duty and did not return until last Sabbath

I have been in hopes that you would have obtained a leave of absence for me to go home to vote Private soldiers all over the country have been furloughed and a great many officers and I am compelled to say that I think it very strange that at so important an election as the one now impending that I am to be denied the privelige extended to private soldiers all over the land I hope that Illinois will maintain the proud position at the polls which she has in the field and send the copperheads to the place where there is no resurrection. We are anticipating some trouble on the northern and Southern frontier and have already sent troops and artillery to Erie Pa I shall go there myself to remain for a few days under the

orders of the Commanding General

I have within the past year written to you several times but have never received a reply. As one of your best personal and political friends and formerly your Adjutant General I had hoped that my requests might have met with a little attention but I presume that as your time has been and is so constantly occupied with the responsibilities of your official position you have not found time

Truly yours

Thomas S Mather

Mather Thos. S. Col &c.

Harrisburg Pa. Nov 3d 64

He had hoped the Govr would obtain for him a leave of absence to enable him to come home to vote. As all the private Soldiers in the country are allowed that privelege he thinks it should be extended to him.

Has written several letters to Govr in the last year but never received an answer

Have written earnestly requesting leave of absence - had no chance when at [Wash?]

Ans. (submit letter to Gov [illegible]