J. O. Norton to Richard Yates

Joliet Sept. 28, 1861

Hon Richd Yates,

DrSir,

Parker Holden 1st Searg. in Co F, 20th Regt. Ills Volrs, & his friends who are amongst the oldest & most respectable citizens of this County, have requested me to write you a word touching his promotion to a Lieutenantcy. He represents that he has the voice? of the company almost unanimously & the recommendation of the Lieut Col (Irwin), and that the reason why his name was not submitted to you was on account of

an old grudge which Col Marsh holds against him. Holden & some others disliked extremely to be sworn in under Col M. and it was perhaps owing more to my persuasions & assurances that all would be right, than to any other cause, that they were finally sworn in for the war. I know Holden to be a first rate young man, & that he would fill the place with credit to himself, and I am very confident that his representations in regard to the matter are true. I most devoutly wish that justice could be done him in the premises From

my own Knowledge of the man & from my long acquaintance with the family I can most cordially commend him to your favorable consideration.

Very Respectfully,

J. O. Norton

Recommending Parker Holden 20th Regt.