Washington, Aug 28th, 1864. Three and a half page pen manuscript letter, 8” x 10”. Written from H.K. Cooper to “Friend Mattson” (A.J. Mattson was the enrolling officer and special agent for the provost marshal office in Prophetstown, and instrumental in getting a railroad line to Prophetstown). Interesting comments on the upcoming 1864 election, with a rather prophetic thought that Grant or Sherman would need a victory to help insure the positive outcome for Lincoln..In part:
Aug 28th , 1864
Friend Mattson,
It is a long time since your last was rec’d & until now it has remained unanswered. The knowledge the Sterling and Rock Island RR is to be built is not likely to benefit me much for as near as I can learn matters are in such a shape that the old Co(?) has nothing to do with the road. (Goes on to talk of other business matters).Since Receiving your letter have seen several of the 8th Ill Cavly. I enquired after Albert Humes(?) he has since called on me, but before I became aware of it the Regt had left so I have only seen him but once. I intended to have gone to their camp by put if off on account of (?) weather until too late. I have however seen Col. Clendinin since -(?) the regt all right the Col Had been sick and was looking bad. (Goes on to mention a few acquaintances ).
How are matters Politically in Ills ere this reaches you we shall know what the R(?)party has done in Chicago & can form something of an opinion of the chances of electing Lincoln for another term. How will Ills go? I fear we have a got a hard job on hand between our enemies & they of our own household the results look doubtfull. I think however in my consider it a race between Lincoln and Jeff Davis. The Chicago nominee can be more nor less than an accomplice of his, and we must “fight it out on that line” A good substantial victory by Grant or Sherman will naturally aid us. I hope we may have it should like to have your views of the above & also of any other things of interest in the Country or State.
You remember W.W Curtis of Trilton is here in the City has a position in the land office ; by the way I should think Washburn could get you a good position under the Govt if you want one, it makes a rogue out of an honest man so quick however that it is hardly safe to take an office. Give my best wishes to Mrs Mattson,Yours &c H.K. Cooper
Overall vg condition, easily readable, small amount of residue on back page (had been pasted in a ledger), not affecting text. ln84 295.