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With J.B. Newland letter 8/9/62
Chicago August 26 1862
To His Excellency Gov. Yates,
Dear Sir,
I would wish to apologize at length, for intruding upon you at a time, when your every moment must be precious, for it seems like egotism to urge any private interest when our beloved country is in such emminent danger. Indeed I would not have presumed to address you were it not that I feel encourage by the largeness of heart, and fatherly protection, which you have already shown to our troops. I therefore hope that it may be in your power to do something for my son who is now in Memphis
At the commencement of the war while absent from home, he enlisted at the Polo (where he was doing business) in defense of the State for 30 days. Shortly after came the requisition for troops to be sworn in for three years - He then told his Capt that he wished to withdraw as he knew he could do better than enter the army for so long a time as a private. His Capt urged him to remain saying that if a young man of his position would make such a move, the Company would be broken up, & promised him to do all in his power for his promotion. He therefore yielded & was sworn in to our great regret. We were then residents of Quincy & Senator Browning placed him at the head of his list to present him to Sect Cameron. but unfortunately at that very time the latter withdrew
from office, & from that time promotion was only to be given for bravery in the field.
For six months he traversed Missouri in quest of the enemy, but was in no regular engagement until the memorable battle of Shiloh, when his regmt. (the 15) suffered so severely. He fought that dreadful battle, & miraculously escaped, his clothes being perfectly riddled with balls -
I enclose you his last to my husband (his step father) who is now in Quincy winding up his affairs preparatory to joining his family here. You will find by it more than I can tell in a few lines - I write to enquire if there is any possibility of his being promoted in his present company & if not may I suggest is he not more fit to take command
after the experience of 18 months than many who may be placed in positions of responsibility in the new regiments that are being formed - As my son has no idea that I would make such a use of his letter will you please either destroy or return it - With feelings of the greatest admiration & gratitude for the manner in which you have conducted the affairs of the State in this terrible crisis. I remain
Yours most respectfully
Jessie Moore
As my son John B Newlands is Sargeant in Com H. 15th reg Ill. Vol. If you wish to enquire of our family I refer you to Gov. Wood who is well acquainted with Mr. Moore Banker Quincy
Should you honor me with a reply please address me, care of James Newland Chicago Illinois
Ansd Sept 25 62
Mrs. Jessie Moore,
Chicago, Aug 26. [1862]
Write a very fine letter asking promotion for her son Jno. B. Newlands, in Co. H. 15th Regt. Ill. Vol. Encloses a letter from her son.
Write & send [illegible] delay