[Richard Yates] to Edwin M. Stanton

State of Illinois

Executive Department.

Springfield Augt 15th 1862

Hon E. M. Stanton.

Sec'y of War

Dear Sir:-

The withdrawal of more than one hundred thousand of our citizens from their ordinary pursuits into the Volunteer Service: has occasioned a very great decrease in the demands for ready made clothing. -

Some of our largest Manufacturers and especially their Employees, many of them females whose husbands & fathers have enlisted leaving them very destitute are suffering pecuinarily from this cause.

These Manufacturers, I am informed would be glad to supply, the Illinois Volunteers with all or a part of the uniforms

necefsary, to the're Equipment, and I am satisfied that they have the means and facilities to do so, as Expeditiously and cheaply as Eastern Manufacturers.

Under these circumstances I would respectfully suggest that contracts for, say, at least twenty five thousand, 25.000 full uniforms be given to parties in this state.

I would also recommend that Asst Quart Master A. J. Allen be authorized to contract for such uniforms, with such restrictions and limitations, as you may see fit to impose

Very Respectfully.

Hon E. M. Stanton

Aug 15th/62

Suggesting that contracts be given for clothing to this state to the amt of 25.000 full uniforms