T. M. Wallace to Richard Yates

Centralia Ap 28th /61

Mr Yates;

Honorable Sir:

You possible may think this rather a strange communication to recieve from a lady; nevertheless, I hope, nay, I know; that you will know how to apreciate it. I am one that has never been content with life; The chains of custom are galling my nerves, The rust is eating at my heart I long for the freedom with which man alone is blessed. For years I have sought oppertunities of doing some thing for the good of my fellow creaturs; but have as yet accomplished but little, I have grown tired of a life of do-nothing, and had rather die than live on the useless being I am. Now when such excitement is known in our once quiet land; when it is the duty of every one to give a helping

hand, not alone the strong man, but every patriotic heart will pant to be with them. Every true, and noble heart will be moved by the deep, holy emotions of the soul: My blood seems to scorch my veins when I see troops marching through the land preparing for the battlefield; I feel that I can no longer remain inactive; So to your excelency, the Governor of Illinois I now tender my service; I give up all that is dear on earth to serve in this great and glorious cause. Yea I would yield up my life, if need be. I will accept the smallest place, only let me have the knowledge that I am doing work for my country. I know no fear, the roaring of the canon is music to my ears, the falling shot would be to me as drops of rain from heaven. Mine is the hand that could wield the sword, fire the cannon, or bring water to cool the fevorish lips of the dieing; bathe the temples, and bind up the bleeding wounds. There is no reason

for me to stay at home; I will go where ever called to go, I care not wheither. Do not refuse my solicitations for I cannot remain at home when I think there is work calling for me. I presume I have said sufficient for you to understand my feelings and also what my wishes are; and I hope that you will respect them far enough to make a speedy reply. Patiently hopeing to hear from you soon, I have the pleasure of remaining

Yours most Truly

Miss T M Wallace

Miss F. M. Wallace

Tender of Services

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