C. W. Florence to Richard Yates

Pana Ills July 30th 1864

To The Hon Gov Yates.

Dear Sir,

The Union people of this village have organized themselves into Companies for Self defense, one Co. to be Infantry, one Cavalry.

I am chosen as leader of the Cavaliers. Now I wish to inquire of your honor wheather or no you could furnish my Company with Sabers and belts. The peace of our once quiet little town has for a week past has been mared by withose lawless Copperhed bush-whackers. The time has come when all Union loveing Citizens should be up and doing.

Please inform me by return mail what you can do, for we are bound to drive them from the neighborhood.

I am Very Respectively

Your Obt serv't

C. W. Florence

Capt of [illegible]

Union League

Florence C. M.

Pana Illinois

July 30th 1864.

The Union men have organized themselves into two Companies. Wishes to know if Governor can supply Cavalry Company with Sabres Belts &c.

Ansd Sept 19th 1864

Snyder

ADC

Can Sabres be furnished?

H

Answer (Cannot

Pana