William S. Pope to Richard Yates

Pay Dept. U.S.A.

St. Louis Mo.

Jan. 22d 1864.

His Excellency

Richard Yates

Governor of Illinois.

Springfield Ills.

Dear Governor:

It does me good to notice the manner in which our brave boys are welcomed home by you. There is not an Illinois soldier, and scarcely any others who do not say "God bless Dick Yates" And the people all say "Amen".

But to business several times during this winter I have been appealed to to know if there was any arrangement with the state, by which the wives and friends of soldiers coming here to see their friends in Hospitals or Could be aided. They get here and spend all their money for their friends and are

destitute of means with which to return.

There is no fund for such cases as this. Considering these things, we have proposed a celebration on the 22d of February next. To Consist of Music and Addresses the proceeds of the occasion to be placed at the disposal of the Ladies Union Aid Society for the benefit of such persons. Especially from Illinois, though this feature is not to be made public.

They have invited me to deliver an address. I have one, delivered several times on the 22d of Feb. I have consented to do so - but will be content to be sandwiched, if we can attain some men to help us whose names Ever are a tower strength in these times.

Now, Governor, if not otherwise Engaged - And you will come down, we can draw out such a Company as

the Old Mercantile Hall never saw before - And you know also what is done publicly in St Louis goes all over Southern Ills Especially. And it will be another occasion for you to add to your already long catalogue of noble acts for the benefit of the soldiers in General and the Ill boys in particular.

And More, I will show you some of the best accommodation. At the Lindell Hotell, where I take my Eatables. Please let me know Governor if you can probably be here. Even the probability will be a good omen for a large House

I reman Governor, Very Respectfully, Your Most Obt Servt W. S. Pope

Pope Wm S. Pay Dept, Saint Louis Mo, Jany 22 1864

Compliments Governor for his manner of receiving our veteran volenteers &c

Wishes to know if any arrangement by which the wives of soldiers who visit their city

Pope

Executive Office Feby 11 64

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