George W. Rives to Richard Yates

Assessor's Office United States Internal Revenue 7th District, Illinois Paris March 7, 1865 Hon Rich Yates Washington DC My dear friend I have one special favor to ask of you - I am informed that a secret purpose or plan is on foot, to have me and Cunningham, removed as [illegible] and collector, of this dist - not for any cause or complaint but to get our place - and that Bromwell is the instrument to carry it out I do not know whether this is correct or not, it is a report and may be so I hope you will make enquiry into this report and let me know the truth, as I would not secretly be "ousted" for any consideration that could be made. Don't fail, to report your enquiry so that I may know how to govern myself [illegible] Your friend, G W Rives