J. L. Williams to Richard Yates

Fort Wayne Sept 26, 1864

Gov Yates

Joseph [DuBois?]

or others

Gent

We this morning wrote to Leut. Gov. Hoffman (enclosing to [illegible] office Chicago) requesting him to honor us with a speech in German at Fort Wayne [illegible] [illegible] this week if possible - or next week [illegible], though the sooner the better.

We have in the City a [illegible] [illegible] vote - chiefly Catholic & Lutheran, and nearly all against it. In 1860 we invited Gov. Hoffman but he could not come. Carl [Schulz?] afterward spoke his turn, and it did us much good. [illegible] [illegible] of [illegible] as ignorant of the issues. They would come out to hear a man of Gov. Hoffman's prestige. Just now, the field is rife to be [illegible]. The Germans and other Lutherans, are holding meetings

and [parading the street?], with indignation at the Democratic leaders for refusing to [illegible] County [illegible] and [illegible] [illegible] is upon them, with 1100 deficit.

But if Gov H cannot come [illegible] able mean spirit character and prestige should [illegible rest of sentence] & go in the morning, he is home in 6 hours to speak at the [illegible].

[illegible] [illegible], and we will [illegible] you after 11th of Oct. If you can clear [illegible] there, Lincoln is due in Nov.

[illegible] [illegible] in which part of the state Gov Hoffman, can [illegible] both to Chicago & Springfield file or forward and aid in your [objective?]

Very truly

J.L. Williams

P.S. Since writing this letter, Gov [Morton?] advises us that he will speak her next Saturday 1st Oct. That day, might could be a good time for a German speech. JLW

Williams JS Ft. Wayne In Sept 26/64 Is very anxious to have Lt. Gov Hoffman come here & speak to the Germans - Gov [Morton?] speaks here on Saturday Oct 1st - this would be a good time for a German speech.