John L. Weed to Richard Yates

Peoria Illinois Oct 1st 1863.

Hon Richard Yates

Springfield Ills.

My Dear Sir.

I suppose you have already been informed of the resignation of Judge Merriman of this Circuit; and of the consequent vacancy existing here. We have as yet received no official information, as to the time when an election to fill the vacancy will be held: and at the suggestion of your good friends Johnson Powell and others, I write to ask you whether there would be any impropriety in calling the election to fill the vacancy at a different time than that of the general election in November. The Election would then be comparatively free from the usual excitements of a political canvas - and give the friends of the Union a fairer chance to secure the election of

their candidate for Judge - We have had an imbecile Copperhead on the Bench quite too long to suit our loyal hearts, and we all feel that if you will only call the Special Election after the General Election you will very materially help us to a better and different result.

Yours Very Truly

John I Weed

Ansd Oct 15 File.

Weed John I.

Peoria October 1st 1863.

Wishes the Governor to order the election for Judge after the general election thinks it will give the union men a better chance to secure the election.

Resignation Judge Merriman accepted to take effect Nov 1st Election ordered Nov 17 '63.

Recd Ex Office Oct 12 63