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My petitions have barley been left with individual friends in different places as i could not devote my time to circulate them i think it would give general satisfaction in the country places for me to have the appointment as we think we have some rites [rights]as well as that of voting the reason for my asking for the office is all ready naimed [named] and i can assure you that i have woorked [worked] long and hard for the principles that the Republican Party now ascribe to. it is now left with your Honer [Honor] and do not think you would hesitate a moment if you really knew my circumstances. there is a case that strikes my mind at this moment where Democratics sympathy has given an individual a thousand dollars but i ask nothing only what I blieve [believe] to be my [?] with others.

Cooper Dec'r 31 1857

I remaine [remain] your most obedient servant John Sprague