John L. Scripps to Richard Yates

Post Office, Chicago, Ill.,

Aug 5th 1862

My Dear Governor

In the course of the conversation which I had with you yesterday, you were kind enough to say that if I had made up my mind to accept the colonelcy of the Board of Trade Regiment, you would exert your influence in that behalf. I have "slept on it." And I am now ready to say that if the position is tendered me I will accept it. My ignorance of military affairs will deter me from making a personal effort to get the place. And yet, I presume, some one equally as ignorant will get it. I very greatly fear that the place will be given to some man who is for saving the Union provided slavery can be saved along with it. Chicago will be everlastingly disgraced if such a man should lead her favorite regiment to the field. If that duty is not assigned to me, I pray you to see to it that some other man in harmony with your own sentiments is placed in command.

Truly Yours

J. L. Scripps

His Excellency Richard Yates

J L Scripps Esq

"Chicago Tribune, Aug 5/62

Will accept the position of Colonel if tendered him “has slept on it." fear it will be given some man not competant.

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