Unknown to Richard Yates

State of Illinois

Executive Department.

Springfield Dec 20th 1864

John [T.?] Blaney

Andalusia Ills.

Dear Sir

I am informed by [Solon?] Burrows, Esq, of Monmouth, that you have heretofore and are still taking an interest in my success as a candidate for the Senate. I believe no one can truthfully charge me with failing to stand by & remember my friends. I am under great obligation to you for your interest in my behalf. I believe I do not [illegible] my strength when I say that I think I shall be elected notwithstanding the

[torn page, missing fragment] against me. [torn page, missing fragment] my [private?] [torn page, missing fragment] I admit. [torn page, missing fragment] to these. But [torn page, missing fragment] led me to do [torn page, missing fragment] [illegible] of any poli- [torn page, missing fragment] I trust I have [torn page, missing fragment] while I have occupied my present position to the satisfaction of all my friends and of the people of the state. I am informed that some of my opponents are circulating the statement that Mr. Lincoln, is unfriendly to me. I am glad to be able to say that such is not the case. I trust I shall receive the support of your members, for your kind interest in

my behalf has [torn page, missing fragment] [illegible] do in [torn page, missing fragment] feel gratification [torn page, missing fragment]