James Henderson to Richard Yates

Aledo Mercer Co

12 August 1861

To His Excellency

Governor Yates

Sir

I learn that T. H. Reed Esq the Editor of the "Aledo Record" with whom I actively co-operated during our last campaign in behalf of the Republican Candidates, has sent my name to you for an appointment in one of the Regiments now organizing at Springfield.

I have not made application for any office hitherto, either directly or indirectly, to the President of the United States or to

the Governor of my own State but now that the Union is in danger I do not hesitate to seek a position in which I may be useful to my country - and in as much as Mr Reed has proposed my name for an appointment I deem it proper to state that in whatever position (if any) your Excellency may conclude I can be serviceable I shall bring to the faithful discharge of the duties it imposes all the activity zeal and energy of my character

I know not what office my friend Mr Reed has solicited for me - or thinks I

am most suited to fill, as I have not seen him since I learned that he has written to you, I suppose it will be a position, however, from which there will be but little hope of my returning to the bosom of my family - for the war now waging seems to be a l'outrance but I have counted the cost and am prepared to devote my abilities - whatever they may be - my means yea and my life too for the preservation of the Union

Your Excellency's

Most Obedient Servt

James Henderson

James Henderson

for position

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