T. P. Roff to Richard Yates

Personal

Memphis Tenn March 1st 1864

Governor Yates

Dear Sir I am aware that your time if fully occupied, yet have hoped that you might give the following some attention.

You doubtless have heard of my late illness - it was brought on by hospital exposure, and overexertion in the discharge of my duties. I am now rapidly recovering, and able to attend to the details of my business

Believing that a change would benefit my general health, I take the liberty to broach a subject which, if it were not on account of my health, I should not at this time. Army officers and friends at the North (strong friends of yours) have frequently importuned me, by asking why I did not seek some position from [Govt?]. They have tendered me letters to you and others, but I have declined all such - preferring that your knowledge of me and my acts- since in the employ of the state, should be my only recommendation.

I have met several ---- of the late appointers, and judging from their efficiency, habits and principals, I am confident that I can file with credit to my [Govt?] as well as to myself, any position I may seek. I would like a Marshallship of one of the seceded states. The duties are familiar to me. There are also the Director commissions, the commissions in the new Enrolement Bill Sec 25 compensating loyal persons to whom colored volunteers may have owed service. Mr. Hales bill if it should pass provides for a Com which would suit me. Of course I would prefer a Marshallship to either of the above. I am not without some influence at Washington, yet receiving your great influence at all of the Departments, and knowledge of such appointments, I have thought I would first seek your advice, - and if in your better judgement there is any probability of success in your assistance.

The Adj't Genl and Sanitary Board, have treated me with great courtesy and kindness, and it is my wish to remain in the service of the State, or Board so long as my health will permit, unless a desirable change should occure - where I have no doubt I would be excused.

It will give me great pleasure to hear from you at you convenience and [illegible] your advice in Reference to the above.

Respectfully &c

T.P. Roff State Agt.----

P.S.

The union people of Memphis were greatly disappointed at your not being able to accept their invitation to be present on the 23 Feby, My office was thronged the week previously by persons seeking information. I am glad however that you did not come. The union sentiment here is more talk for the purpose of getting property back than true union feeling. Since Genl H. left here their prospect is not as good. To my certain knowledge parties expected to prove to your satisfaction their unionism & so get Gov Yates influence at Washington On the other hand late appointees (Chase men) were fearful, you would come for reasons of their own. We are having a great many by plays & Farces on our Southern {illegible} union stage.

I am in receipt of a message from your Brother today - he is well & in good spirits. T.P.R ----

Roff. T.P

State Agent.

Memphis. Tenn.

March 3. 1864

Would wish to obtain a Marshalship of one of the Seceded States or some other position as the State of his health is not good any unfits him for his present duties

Wants Govr. opinion and advice.

Dir Gov sec Maj Robb at Memphis

Answered

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