M. G. Atwood to Richard Yates

Alton,

August 31, 1864.

To His Excellency,

Governor Yates,

Springfield,

My Dear Sir:

Permit me to introduce to you the bearer of this, Mr. Robert Smith Cavender, my-son-in-law. He is the person of whom I spoke to you, in the cars last Wednesday, when on your way to St. Louis. I learn that he has been recommended to your Excellency, by several of our prominent Citizens, as a suitable person to fill the post of Major in our Alton Regiment - and that his appointment would give satisfaction to Col. Rogers, as well as to a host of friends. I can only say that, should you deem it for the best interest of the Regiment to give him the Commission of Major, I should esteem it as a personal favor, believing as I do that he will do honer to the Nation, & give satisfaction to the public. Yours, with great respect,

M.G. Atwood

Robt. Smith & M.G. Atwood

Alton, Aug 31st 64

Recommend Robert S. Cavender for the position of major of Alton Regiment.