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Seattle W T Jan 20th 1865
Hon R Yates
Dr Sir
Probably you will remember that in the spring of 1861 you recommended me by letter to be appointed to the position I now hold that of United States Atty for Washington Territory. Considering Illinois almost my native State having resided there from 1844 to 1861, and now living in a Territory which of Course has no political influence, I hesitate less than perhaps I otherwise might to ask a still further favor. One of the Associate Justices of the Supreme Court of this Territory an old man from Uniontown Penn is about to return east and will not be an applicant for reappointment. That place will therefore be vacent and I am desirous of obtaining it. Mr Lincoln is better acquainted with me then you are and I think is quite well disposed toward me but you know how it is with him in these matters being pressed on all sides and at all times. If you are disposed to name the matter to the President I will reciprocate in any way I can, but how that will be I have not the slightest idea at present, unless you acept the old equity rule of the will for the deal.
But if the President is not disposed to give me
that position he would confer a great favor upon the people here by sending some good lawyer to fill it. We have but one man on the bench in this Territory who can justly lay any claim to being a respectable lawyer and that is Wyche. The want of ability and fitness for positions on the part of the great majority of the Officers sent here has done more to weaken the administration party and strengthen the opposition than all other courses combined, and the result is today that both branches of our Territorial Legislation is Copperhead to the [backbone?].
I have already written more then I had intended and perhaps wearied your patience & therefore I will close this hasty letter, only remarking in addition, that if there is any information I can give you of or concerning this extreme north west [const?] that you are desirous of, and will indicate in what particulars, it will afford me pleasure to convey it if possible.
I am Your Obt. Svnt
John I. McSilaru