John R. Wood to Richard Yates

General Head-Quarters, State of Illinois Adjutant General's Office Sanitary Department Springfield, Jan 20th, 1865

Honorable Richard Yates Dear Sir From all I can learn, I have been regarded as a tolerably useful member of the Directory of the Deaf and Dumb Asylum. I know that I have tried to do my duty in the premises, and am somewhat proud of the substantial record which I have been assisting to make in and about the Institution. The position is hardly worth asking for, but still I would be gratified to receive at the hands of your successor a reappointment. It makes one feel better you know, to find that his acts in any capacity of usefulness are approved by those in authority. Governor Oglesby can have no sincerer friend, or one who will endeavor, by an intelligent performance of duty, to reflect honor and credit upon his administration. I very much regretted my inability to be present at your home reception. You ought to be a happy man. Do you realize the proud career which lies open before you? How fervently every pulse throbs for your success! God preserve you and make you a blessing to your country. Faithfully yours John R. Woods

Woods, John R January 20th, 1865 Would like to be reappointed as Director of the Deaf and Dumb Asylum Friendly and complimentary