N. C. Meeker to Richard Yates

Dongola Union Co Ills January 6, 1863 Hon Gov Yates, Springfield Ills, Sir, You will receive an account of the raids on our orchards by the Secesh. Their plan seems to be to clean out union men by cutting down their orchards. If not checked they will succeed. Fruit growers are union men. You cannot imagine their consternation. We have thought best to suggest to you that you cause a skillful detective to be sent hither to work up a case or so The one of Mr Babcock's is easiest to get at. Mr. Babcock's whole property except the land consisted in his trees He spent immense labor on them-he had the finest trees in the state. One representing himself a deserter will be the man I think he will smoke the thing out in a short time. This is of the utmost importance to the whole of southern Illinois. If you can't do anything let us know to whom we can apply with success. Something must be done or we are gone. Communicate with me, or Babcock-or with Chas Colby, or Messers Evans South Pass Very Respectfully Yours, N. C. Meeker