William S. Pope to Richard Yates

St. Louis Mo May 29" 1865 Hon. Richd Yates U.S. Senator Jacksonville Ills My dear friend: For three years I have devoted myself unremittingly to the duties of my office and determined to think of nothing else till the rebellion was crushed. The war is now over; and my long cherished desire of going to Europe comes up and urges me to make this application. As I read the French and Speak the German Language, some place in one of those countries would be desirable. Perhaps Munich recently vacated by death of Webster. In London I have some wealthy and influential relatives which would make that no unpleasant place. In conversation with some of my fellow officers, my desire on this subject was incidentally mentioned. They at

once drew up and signed the papers which I send in company with this letter. I hope my dear Gov. you will not think that is this my ambition "to the overleap itself" but that you will find it agreeable with your duty to others and your high sense of justice to Illinois to ask nay even to urge this petition. But, if this fail, after due trial, then I would like to be continued in the [Pay?] Department by appointment into the Regular Army till I can see my accounts all settled. Hoping that the first petition may not fail and trusting your fidelity as my friend in the case I remain most respectfully your obedient and humble Servt Wm S. Pope [pay major?]

The Tenth Ward Awake. The turnout and enthusiasm at Sturgeon Market Saturday night in favor of the New Constitution was in marked contract with the soullers affair at the Court House. On motion of Charles W. Irwin, [Plnlip] F. Shirmer was called on to preside and Frank White was chosen Secretary. The fallacies and objections brought to bear against the New Constitution were eloquently discussed by the Hon. C. D. Drake, Rev. Dr. Cox, Gen. Pile, Major Pope and Dr. Conzelman. The people are convinced that the New Constitution is demanded by the times, and it is clear that the Tenth Ward will roll up a heavy majority in its favor. Pious perjury will stand no chance in that ward.

P.S. Any number of names could be readily attained to the paper handed me. Say they who have signed but they deemed needless to multiply names as they have a representative from all the stores in the dept. MjPope

June 19th 1865 gave strong letter for f. apt

Maj W. S. Pope