Francis Eastman to Richard Yates

Chicago Ill.

Dec. 19, 1864.

Dear Governor, -

I received your letter Saturday a.m. & went to Joliet the evening of same day. It has been my opinion---if you will allow me the liberty of saying so---that you had better treat the Penitentiary in a brief, general, & non-committal way. But I hoped to find the report of Superintendent McGregor in such a state of forwardness as would give me the particulars you ask for. Mr. Bergin, however, has failed to keep his appointments with the Superintendent and the work on the report drags. And now Mr. Bergin writes us from Washington that he will not be able to help us at all. It is a disappointment and perplexity to Judge Parks and myself, who are comparatively new in the Institution. But we shall, notwithstanding, be able to make a proper report---one that, I am confident, cannot be picked to pieces. I don't believe there is half as much rottenness in the management of the Institution as there is in---a certain newspaper concern!

I have telegraphed to Dr. Buck to come in to-morrow to consult with reference to one or two points, when I shall go to Joliet again

immediately & stay till things are in shape. on the next page I give you what, in my judgment, it would be wise and prudent to say in your Message on the subject of the Penitentiary. If you should differ from me, and still want particulars, I will send them to you as soon as possible.

Respectfully & truly,

Francis A. Eastman

I do not believe that the enemy can carry the Cook delegation, nor a majority of it.

Eastman, Hon. F.A.

Chicago Dec. 19th 64

Went to Joliet and was surprised to find the report of Penitentiary incomplete. Bergan writes from Washington that he can't help them at all. He will get a report ready though, and one which he thinks they cant pick to pieces. He thinks a general non committal allusion to the institution would be better. Don't believe the opposition can carry Cook Co. Delegation or a majority of it.