William O. Marvin to Richard Yates

Cobb P. O. Randolph Coty Jany 14th 1863

To his Excelency Gov R Yates

Honored Sirs

    A subject causing considerable excitement amoung us, I wish for the sake of information for you beniefiting the state, some contrabands have found there way among us seeking food protection and labor. They found all this with some of my neighbors and recommendations for their services.
    But through the hostile attitude of some of thoes where have obtained the conciet of being Kinghts of the Golden Circle have been obliged to discharge them and they are gone.
    I wish to know whether they are of some Secy forbidden the State, and whether theye would be a transgrission of enemy, lives employing them and have to deal with these troublesome knights.
    I have not employed enemy, myself but as it is almost impossible to obtain white laborers shall (be ?) be glad to use so should one offer.
    By answering Dear Sirs you will confirm it to (illegible) to my self and any more others who wish to know the same thing.
                                                                       Your Very Obedient Servant
                                                                               William O Marvin

(----)

William O. Marvin Cobb P.O. Randolph Co. Ill

Says contraband have been working in his neighborhood and received their pay those employing them have been troubled by Knithts of the Golden Circle. Wishes to knnow if is is breaking any laws to employ them?

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