J. T. Holmes to Richard Yates

Orleans March 1863

His Excellency

Gov Yates

Dear Sir

I think it the duty of every well wisher of his Country to throw in his mite to aid a Brother patriot. Especialy one who has such Hurculean responsible placed upon you. I had and interview with a couple of Sam Woods friends the other day They wer frank in saying that there would be an eruption, an that the very day when the draft is started and that the Conscript would be opposed

And that you would have to bring a Regiment from the present field, and

half of them would join the secesh

And there is a package of 25 papers sent to this 4 by 9 Post office from the office of the rebel sheet Chicago Times. I also heard a gentleman in Company with Col W. B. Warren say he had no doubt but there would be fighting in Morgan and also Cass Co as there was 700 majarty.

My Dear Sir. My oppinion is that the Night of the Circle is at the bottom of this. And whether there Could not be an Army from the East got that would be less tainted with the Develment of the Society than any are that might be got in the west.

I mearly suggest this for your consideration. Blieve me sir I think our County in great danger at this time.

J. T. Holmes

J Stewart Holmes

Orleans Ill March 11' 1863.

Says the very day the draft is started the Conscript will be opposed, thinks the Governor will have to bring a regiment from the field to Enforce the law

Rev

Recd Ex O March 20 1863.