James Gorrell to Richard Yates

Ossian Ind.

Jan. 19th 1864.

Gov. Yates,

Dear Sir

I saw a notice in a late No. Chicago Daily Tribune that "Released Indian Lands in Jackson County Ill. would be sold at Springfield Apr. 6th/64".

I hope your Honor will pardon me for asking a few questions in relation to said lands, and vouchsafe answers, when I inform you that I am acquainted with no one else in your State so well qualified to answer them.

1st Is the statement in Tribune correct?

2nd Can a "D-d Abolitionist" buy said land prior to Apr. 6th/64?

3d At what price, and when paid?

4th Is it Prairie, or Timber land? &c.

I think Jackson & Union Counties

in your State should be depopulated or repopulated immediately, and contemplate taking one unconditional Unionist over there - "God willing"

Please be so kind as to inform me how to obtain the information I desire, if you cannot give it.

Pardon the liberty I have taken in addressing you.

Your Very

Obt Servt.

James Gorrell

Gorrell James

Ossian Ind

Jany 19 1864.

Learned that released Indian Lands in Jackson County are to be sold. wishes information in regard to Same

Ansd.

Request Mr Miner to write letter for me

Executive Office Febry 2 64