W. F. Gapen to Richard Yates

Washington D. C. June 26" 1865

Hon. Richard Yates,

Jacksonville, Ill.

Dr Sir:

In the absence of my father - C. C. Gapen, Esq. of Lacon, Ill - I desire to acknowledge the receipt of the letter of Hon. Mr. Harlan to you, saying that your letter in my father's favor had been "placed on file for future reference." -- and, in addition to whatever my father may have said to you, to thank you for your kind. and strong effort in his behalf --

My father came to the conclusion that future reference meant so far in the future as to imply never, and so has returned to Illinois, where he may meet you. His children and friends were much disappointed in his failing to get a place here thro' the summer, as he is advancing in years, and, having been a life long soldier in the ranks of the Whig and Republican armies - always declining office, it was considered he was most worthy of a small pension for a short time, for his ever strong and ready efforts in the wars for principles. ----

In conversation with Mr. Browne - the Srgt at Arms of the Senate, he was informed that the appointments of doorkeepers [?] of the Senate were given through influence of the Senators & he inferred that his appointment then would and could come through you and he somewhat regretted that he had not asked you for a letter or the Srgt instead of Harlan, - but he would not trouble you further then as he might conclude to return here at the opening of Congress.

Allow me to add that, my father and myself feel just as much obliged to you for your strong letter as though it had not failed in its object.

I congratulate you upon your very flattering but deserving reception by the people of Illinois, and upon the return to their homes of so many of your friends, the brave soldiers of glorious Illinois.

Very Respectfully,

Your truly

W. F. Gapen

(War Dept)----

W. F. Gapen

War Department

Thank you for your good

will shown to his father

in an effort to get an

appointment in Washington

No answer neceperry