C. B. Farwell to Richard Yates

                      Chicago Dec 31. 1864

Dear Gov.

          Your two favors of 22nd and 27th inst. are rec'd _  My excuse for not answering before is _ constant sickness in my family for six weeks, and the death of our oldest child. -  I had contemplated going to springfield to aid you in any way that I could and so informed (illegible church?), but since our dreadful misfortune has befallen us, another continued sickness in my family _  I do not see how I can leave

       I do hope that you will succeed in obtaining

the position which you have so justly earned.- and you cannot be beaten except by traiters in our own ranks_

      I am informed that there is some doubt about Ward, Strong, Ross Huntley, Stephenson Walton in our District and (positive?) attention   him the member whom you nominated in Lake Co.  Blodgett & Harris are both against you _ Washburnes friends here express no doubt (and say they have none) that he will succeed. _  Our delegation was nominated upon the Yates basis, and if it had been supposed that they were not for you

that could not have been nominated _ but Cook County problems as you are aware are unlike any thing else_ The so called republican money of Chicago. care for nothing except themselves. and will write any thing for a consideration They will be for you one day, and against you the next.

       I repeat that I regret I cannot go to Springfield to do what I can in this matter.  I do not suppose that I could do anything, but I would like to have it in my power to decide the election in your favor.

                                                                              Your friend

                                                                                     C B. Farwell

Farwell C B.

Chicago Dec 31/64

Cant come down on acc't of sickness in family. Hopes for your success