Isaac N. Morris to Richard Yates

Washington City

Aug 3rd 1863

To His Excellency Richard Yates

Governor of the State of Illinois

Dear Sir

The Assistant Secretary to the Interior has decided against the claim of Illinois. I am not disappointed in the decision for reasons which I shall hereafter explain to you and have prayed an appeal to the President, which I think he is bound to sustain. I have his (the Presidents) opinion in writing, given a day or two after I arrived here, saying the law in his judgment, is with the State.

The decision of Judge Otto I do not regard as nonsensable, and shall proceed at once to serve it. But a half an hour ago a copy of it was placed in my hands when I saw it for the first time.

Yours respectfully,

I. N. Morris

Gov File Nl

Morris Hon I. N.

Washington Aug 3 1863

The Assistant Secretary of the Interior has decided against the claims of Illinois - has made an appeal to the President which he thinks he is bound to sustain - has the Presidents opinion in writing, saying the law in his judgment, is with the State.

File

Recd ExO.  Sept 14th 1863