S. M. Willson to Richard Yates

State of Illinois

Executive Department, Springfield October 31st 1861.

Dear Governor, There is a great effort being made to involve you in the "Hecker Kune" affair. I hope you will listen and give the matter due consideration--and not commit yourself upon any point until you have had time to consider all things fully. Butz of Chicago is here and is very belligerent. He says General Sherman has referred the matter to you. This looks to me like somebodys trick to shift an unpleasant responsibility upon your shoulders. I hope you will weigh the affair considerately and leave the responsi-

bility where it belongs, to wit: to the War Department which organized the Regiment --

Yours truly, S. M. Willson

S. M. Wilson asking to give the "Hecker Kune" affair due consideration & leave responsibility to War Department

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