Henry Rice to Richard Yates

New York 22 August 1864.

His Excellency

Gov. Richard Yates

Springfield Ills.

Dear Sir!

My apology, in intruding upon your valuable time, must be in knowing you, Sir, to be allways ready to help a loyal friend along -

You are aware, Sir that since I left Jacksonville I have been engaged in dry goods Bussiness in the City of Memphis, Tennessee, & have allways conducted our Bussiness strictly in accordance with the Department Regulation, to which all our Military Authorities can bear witness-

The Object of this letter is, as that I am not acquainted with the present Comanding Major Genl Washburne - having been absent from there on a/c of Ill health for nearly 4 months - but about to return there shortly & in view of the New Trade Regulations, upon which Genrl W. will issue war trade permitts, I would request of you, dear Sir, at your earliest convenience, to send me if you please a letter of Introduction & Recommendation in what light you choose to put my Loyalty & Integrity to Genl Washburne. Knowing your testimony to be of the greatest Weight for us.

With Expression of my highest Regards, allow me to remain Yours very Obedient Serevt Henry Rice

Box 28411, New York City

Rice Henry, New York, Aug 24th 1864

Wants a letter of introduction & recommendation to Brig Gen Washburne

Aug 31st 64

Attended to P-