A. B. Mackenzie to Richard Yates

Lincoln Herald Office Lincoln Ills July 26-62

Richard Yates

Dear Gov I wish you would do a good thing for a noble soldier, Segt Henry Sturges, formerly publisher of this paper, volunteerd for the war about a year ago in the 4th Ill Cavlry Co "H," and has, we learn, done his duty manfully and bravely. He left a young wife and two children at home entirely dependent upon him for support. Of his capacity, courage and value we have the best evidence from the boys in his Company. It would be just to him, and a great deed of mercy to his family, to promote him. He would make an excellent Capt. or Lieut.

As to his loyalty, his record is a good one. He conducted this paper during the Presidential Campaign, and labored hard for you in this County. He left a good-paying business, and, like a true patriot, volunteered as a private, and has served his country [fully the honor] alone.

Dear Gov, it would make many hearts glad to know [strikeout] hear of you promoting him. Please write me immediately.

Yours very truly A. B. MacKenzie

A. B. MacKenzie. Lincoln July 26/62

Asking & highly recommending Sergt Henry Sturges [late?] publisher of the Herald. is a good man & leaves a wife & two children dependent on him. asks he be promoted to a Captaincy or Lieut position --

am Sept 5 [illegible]

Write a warm letter in my name and say that I will see what I can do -- if any vacancy, where it would at all [suit?], shall gladly [illegible]

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