William Coler to Jasper Porter

Champaign Ill

Dec 12 1864

Jasper Porter Esq

Springfield Ill

Your favor at hand &c. Of course I am for the Gov for U S Senator. I wrote him several days ago (have forgotten the date) giving him such information as I had. Everybody here is for the Gov Except Jr Cunningham and a few of his clique and their only objection sees to be the report that the Gov "Drinks"

I am Sure Bond will support Yates - so will Tincher, Spink & Jones three members from the Dist Comprised of the Counties of Edgar Vermillion Coles & Douglas. At least Spink told me that he would work for Yates & that he and his Colleagues would vote as a unit. I don't know how Pugh stands. I wrote him a letter some days ago on the subject but have no answer. Pugh is my Friend & has promised that he would respect my wishes in

this matter. I will see Woods of Iroquois and if he is not right - I will put him right.

These fellows all want to go to Congress & cross them if they dont dance up to the mark I'll Slaughter them. And they shall so understand it.

Of Course Yates must be elected! I dont think there is any danger of his defeat yet it is well to watch the corners. I know the Great hart of the people is for him And his influence in the Senate would be much greater than any other man we could send. Again his influence would be in the right direction. I was always a Conservative on the Slavery Question until Slavery raised its hand in rebellion for the destruction of the Government. Since which I have been a radical if you please to Call it so. I am for wiping out Slavery let come what will. I know Yates is with me & and a giant in the fight, therefore I am for him. I think I shall come down at the beginning of the Session & keep our folks right on this question

Yours

Coler

(Senatorial)

Coler Wm N

Champaign Dec. 12th 1864

Is unconditionally for Yates for U.S. Senator. The people there are all for him, with a few exceptions, of those whose only objection is that he drinks

He is sure, Bond, Tincher, Spink and Jones, will support him. Spink told him that he would work for him, and that he & his collegues would vote as a unit.

Dont know how Pugh stands, but will attend to him. He (Pugh) is his friend and has promised to respect his wishes in the matter. He will see Wood of Iroquois and put him right. These fellows all want to go to Congress & if they dont "come to time" he will "slaughter" them & they know it