Thomas J. Russell

Union Monitor Office,

Hillsboro, Ills., Nov. 16th 1864.

Hon Richard Yates.

Springfield Ill

Dear Sir: I hardly know how to address you on the subject I am about to name. It is a settled question with every loyal voter in Illinois that Richard Yates would be the next U. S. Senator from Illinois, provided the Legislature was right - such is the case now. Should you be a candidate your election is certain, and I wish your influence in order to enable me to get the appointment as post master in this town. There is considerable dissatisfaction among all classes with the present incumbent, as you are probaby aware. Mr J. T. Eccles has been trying to have him removed, but was not successful. I can give you as good reference as the country can afford, besides being publisher of the Union Monitor. Every county officer elected are disloyal and I expect nothing from them in this way of support and unless I can get into something that I can closely connect with my paper I shall be compelled to succumb to the pressure!

I can refer to J. T. Alexander, Greenville, C. P. H. Bromwell member elect from 7th Dist. Gen. Sammons, and others if necessary, or old Abe if that will do. Please let me know whether I can count on your assistance.

Respectfully,

Thos J. Russell.

Russell Thos. J.

Hillsboro Nov 16th 64

Senatorial - & Complimentary -