William H. Wilson to Richard Yates

Freeport Stephenson County Illinois August 28 - 1862

Richard Yates

Governor I have been watching with deep interest all the events of this murderous war and have found much to be pleased with and much to complain of.

Your own course and action has pleased me much so much so that it induced me to appeal to you in behalf of our suffering soldier friends in the army and as I know your time is much occupied I will name but one of the many things that I am grieved to see, and I don't expect it is in your power alone to remedy it but I hope you will use your influence in the proper place to affect a reform in some degree of the great evil viz The abuse of privates by the officers. men whos patriotism and love of Country induced them to leave friends and home for its defense, did not expect to be made slaves and menials and treated like dogs because the military regulations require them to obey their superiors, I know of instances where men would die before they would stand such treatment in the capacity of citizens. and I have good reason to believe it does and will lead to desertions

If there is any hope of relief I pray you use your influence in that behalf Yours more than Respectfully

William H Wilson

His Excellency Governor Yats

Three cheers for Gov Srague

   do       do       Gen Hunter

    "        "          "  Pope

and do do Gov Yates

Ansd. Aug 30

Wm H. Wilson

Freeport Stephenson Co Ill

Aug. 25/62

Has been a close observer of the war & approves fully of your course, but finds some things which should be remedied if in your power. Particularly refers to the abuse of privates by officers and requests your endeavors to remedy the evil.

ackg rect. glad to hear from & note his suggestions