Edward A. Small to Richard Yates

Hon Richd Yates.

Springfield. Dear Sir. Among the most inveterate haters of the Washburne dynasty that we have here is a family by the name of Spensley (Englishmen) loyal all over. One of the Sons. John Spensley a very popular man here, who had been in the service & was discharged for disability - was told, when the last call for 300000 men was made that if he would enlist, our Galena quota could be filled. He at once put down his name & that circumstance filled our quota of about 117 men for this City alone. The Galena quota including Spensley are now at Camp Butler and it is the unanimous wish of the Boys that John should receive a Commission - Either a Captaincy or Lieutenancy. You have it in your power to do this, and I wish you would see what can be done for him. I can get a petition signed by every loyal man in Galena if necessary. Will you not do me the favour to do something for Mr Spensley, who I assure you is one of the most influential, as he is one of the best young men that this County every produced. I learn that the recruits will likely leave Camp Butler this week. I shall esteem it a great persenal favor if you will send for Spensley & do something for him.

Yours truly E A Small

File in Gov's Office 1864 Dec 12. 1864

Col. Niles

Please endorse person & send to immediately whether this can be done & return this.

Small E. A.

Galena Dec. 1864.

As to the appointment of John Spensley (a hater of Washburn) to a commissioned officer in some Regt.

Governor;

There has been 325 men (Drafted & Substitutes) assigned to the 45th Ills & the supposition is that most of these men were from Jo Daviess County. There are several vacancies of 2 Lieut in the 45th and the above assignment will probably fill the companies enough to entitle the muster of a 2 Lieut. Should think it would be necessary for him to procure the recommendation of the C.O. of Regt

Respt

Niles

Friend Small Return this letter to me by first mail

R Yates

Dear Sir. I have caused a letter to be written today to Geo A. L. Chetlani at Memphis for a recommendation for Spensley. He knows him well. tomorrow I will get other recommendations from parties here. I have no favour to ask for myself & none for my friends unless they are worthy and I know that John is. The 45th is with Sherman now and no letter can reach Col Seeby.

Yours truly E A Small