Y. W. Hutchenson

Louisville Clay Co. Ill. Sept 29th 1864

Hon. Richard Yates, My Dear Sir.

In receiving letters from strangers you often find, no doubt, that they were written by old friends - none the less warm and cordial, though you never heard of them. I am at present laboring for the Union cause in a humble way, because circumstances do not allow me to serve in a more conspicuous manner. In fact I am now editing a union county paper. I also take the stump at such places as I can reach, and shall not attempt anything else till Lincoln and our state ticket

are elected. I write this pricipally to add my voice to a thousand others in behalf of a soldiers' vote. Do, please, Governor, use all your influence to have the soldiers home on furlough. It is not enough to carry the state - we ought to - we must carry these Egyptian counties, and with half the soldiers' votes can do it. Without if it will be hardly safe for a Union man to live here. I have been here only some three months, and made my first stump speech when Atlanta fell. Next morning a delegation waited on me with peremptory orders to change my course if I

intended to remain in this community. I talked to them like a Dutch uncle", and they went away. When their passion cooled I think there was no further danger. I assure you, Governor, there is very great need of dispelling the darkness here. We have the votes of the 48 98th regs which were in part, made up here. the 98th gives 26 for McClellan, and only 9 for Richardson. The other Reg. is declared to be a perfect unit for the Union ticket For heaven's sake, have them come home.

Yours with Great Respect Y. W. Hutchenson A. M.

T. W. Hutchinson A. M.

Louisville Clay Co. Sept 29th 64

Wants Govr to use his influence to have Soldiers come home to vote for he says they must carry the Egyptian counties.

H wf Ansd Oct 12th 1864 Porter