John Belzer to Richard Yates

Memphis July 16

Governor.

The annexed article was written at my request by my friend Wane of the Phila. Press, who is temporarily editing the Bulletin. As it will do to republish in Illinois papers I have sent you three copies of the paper.

The fact concerning our boys with Curtis, was told me yesterday by Gen Osterhaus. It certainly must be some satisfaction to you to know that your Efforts in behalf of the soldiers have been attended by such favorable results.

I have also attended to it in the Associated Press despatch which will appear in the Chicago & St Louis papers of Friday or Saturday morning. I enclose you a copy of it as sent from here to the telegraph office at Cairo.

Respy, Your obdt svt

John Belzer

Nothing from Commissioners. I am watching Curtis' Illinois men.

From Associated Press Report.

"Officers of Gen Curtis' Army, represent that, with the Exception of those from Illinois, his troops are suffering greatly for want of clothing &c, many of them being without coats or shoes. The Illinois soldiers are thoroughly supplied with clothing, medicines & surgical & sanitary stores which were provided for them through the efforts of Gov Yates and the state officers before they Entered the field. Illinoisans speak in highest terms of the care which has been taken of them by the authorities of their state in whose praise they are Eloquent, while they are the Envy of the troops from other western states"

Col. John Belzer

Memphis July 16/62

Enclosing copy of dispatch to Phila. papers in regard to the condition of Gen Curtis army, which with the exception of the Illinois troops are suffering for clothing &c. - Will do to republish in our papers here.

- Nothing from the Comrs.

Had the report to Associated Press better be published.