Chester Kinney to Richard Yates

Middleport Ill April 12th

Hon Richard Yates

Governor &c

Dear Sir: I have a brother one Lieut James R. Kinney who was at the Battle of Fort Donelsen under command of Gen Grant in the 7th Ill Reg Col John Cook and more recently in the Battle of Pittsburgh Landing where I am informed he was dangerously wounded by a shot in the shoulder while leading his company and will probably die if not already dead. I desire to go and procure his body if dead, and if not dead to take him, and take care of him until he recovers & is again able for service. He enlisted in Capt Joslins Company at Elgin in this State and joined the 7th Reg under Col Cook, and has been promoted for bravery several times since.

I am too poor to defray the cost of the trip. I desire a pass over the R. R. to the scene of action & return for him & me. I would not

ask it were I able to proceed without it. I will refer you to Dr. C. F. McNeill, as to my character as I suppose he is with you.

Hoping to hear from you soon I am Respectfully

Yours & c Chester Kinney

Chester Kinney Middleport Apr 12

Wants passes for brother

Ans Apr 25 no passes sent

[in pencil] send him necessary papers & passes