John C. Grierson to Wesley

Memphis Tenn Augst 23/62

Friend Wesley

H. H. Potter an old friend of mine and Brother to M. D. Potter of the "Cincinnati Commercial" desires to open a business house here, but in order to do so, he will be under the necessity of visiting Washington City to endeavor to obtain a permit. H. H. Potter is the man for whom I Clerked at the time our national troubles commenced, he was at the time a Firm Union man, has remained so during all the troubles, and is now & ever will be devoted to the Union Cause. He continued in business here until the Confederates closed him up. He now desires to commence business again and in order to do so, he is informed by the "Powers that be", that he will have to obtain a permit from Washington City of the parties authorized to grant the same. If he gets the permit, he will give me a good situation. Now Wes I desire you to get from the Governor a letter of introduction, to the President for him,---stating the facts as above mentioned. I mean in substance.---I don't know who the parties are who

are authorized to issue permits to trade, but I presume you do or can ascertain, and if you can get a letter to them also, it will be so much the better. he expects to have a letter from Gov "Andy Johnson" and leaves here in a few days for Nashville to "have an interview with him." Wes, you will confer a great favor upon me if you attend to this matter promptly, and should you succed, you will please send the letter or letters addressed as follows at the earliest possible moment---"H. H. Potter care of M. D. Potter Cincinnati Ohio" and if he is not there the letters will be forwarded to him at Washington City. I will vouch for all I have said for Mr Potter in this letter, and no man runs any risk in giving him the letters I request for him. I have got some Cotton speculations under way and hope to make something handsome unless "something turns up" to prevent, of which I have no knowledge at present, but I will not suffer myself to be too sanguine as there is always a chance for a "slip between the cup & the lip" Please write me your success in this matter for Potter. I am aware it will give you some trouble but who can you ask a favor of if not a friend. Please inform Father & my wife that I am well &c &c. Don't fail to write me & oblige---"The Union for Ever"---Yours Truly

John C. Grierson

John C Grierson

Memphis

Aug 23/62

To Friend Wesley.

Wishes a letter of recommendation from Govr Yates to Presdt Lincoln favoring H. H. Potter.

G