Lucius P. Norton to Richard Yates

Private & Confidential

Tamaroa Illinois

Dec 11th 1864

Gov. Yates Springfield

Dr Sir

Your favor of 29th ult. was duly recd. In answer I need make no professions of desire to advance your interests whenever I can. As I am not personally acquainted with Mr Miller the member from Washington Co, I have approached him upon the subject named in your letter through a friend - I understand that he (Miller) will feel it his duty - if Gen John A. Logan is a candidate for U.S. Senate to go for him first - if Logan is not as he at present understands the wishes of his constituents he should go for you. I am

inclined to think however from the conversation as related to me- that further than the support of Logan first Miller is undecided and might be influenced otherwise than as indicated for second choice. From all that I can learn - and I have heard of considerable planning - I am of opinion that the certainty of your success - (I will not say the only certainty) depends upon your obtaining the majority upon 1st vote in Caucus nomination, if you fail of that - I am afraid that there are influences at work that may defeat you - Please let me know if I can do you any good - in haste as ever

Your Friend truly

Lucius P. Norton

Norton Lucius P.

Tamaroa Dec 11th 1864

Not being acquainted with Miller (member from Washington Co) he approached him through a friend - understands that he, (Miller) will go for Logan if he is a Candidate - if not for you -

He believes that he is undecided & can be influenced to change his present decision -

Think that your success will depend upon a majority on 1st ballot otherwise there are influences at work which will do you much harm -

"Senatorial"