J. G. Andrews to Richard Yates

Savannah Georgia

January 3, 1865

His Excellency R Yates

Springfield Ill

Sir

As a citizen of Illinois I feel a deep interest not only in the prosperity and well being of our noble State; but also in the righteousness of its laws. And looking from the stand point of Eternal rectitude I cannot but look upon the black laws of Illinois as a system of injustice and inhumanity and unbecoming a civilize people; and a fit representative of the dark ages. I would therefore ask it as a favor of you to exert your influence to have them

repealed; and forever banished from our Statutes; let the foul stain be forever blotted out. Let the Legislature of Illinois Set such an example in this respect as shall be worthy of imitation in all our Sister States.

I trust the day is not far distant when no slave can breathe upon American soil. As a Soldier I feel grateful to you for what you have done and tried to do for the brave men that have periled their lives in their country's defence and whilst you as the Governer of Illinois can feel justly proud of of Illinois Soldiers; that feeling is reciprocated on the part of the Soldier. He feels proud of his Governor.

It is unnecessary to multiply words; your own better judgment will dictate the necessity of the repeal of that inhuman code.

So far as my observation goes the Negro will make a better citizen than the Southern refugee; for while the former is inured to toil; is loyal to his country; a quiet and peacable citizen: the latter has been reared in vice and indolence; is disloyal to his country and a disturber of the peace and he is North simply because he is too much of a coward to fight.

I am Sir with great respect

Your Obedient Servant

J G Andrews

Co C 7th. Ill. Infantry

3rd Big 4th div 15th S.C.

R Yates

Governor Illinois

Andrews J. G.

Co "G" 7th Ills Vols.

Savannah Jany 3d 1865

Looks upon the Black Laws of Illinois as a system of injustice & hopes they will be repealed. &c