N. Niles to Richard Yates

Belleville Ill.

May 30, 1865

Hon R. Yates

Dear Sir;

My son Kossuth has been led by promises from both of us to expect an appointment as cadet to West Point.

I would like to know what degree of certainty or probability may properly belong to this expectation and when it may be realized. He is 16, has served as a soldier in the ranks against Forrest and Price. An answer to this on receipt will

much oblige.

Yours truly

N. Niles

I would like to know as soon as possible when the appointment may be looked for if at all. I will put the boy to a trade if there be any uncertainty about his getting a Cadetship. I am am unable to educate him for a profession. My condition pecuniarily is about that of an honest rebel of four years standing.

Yours Truly

N. Niles

Col. N. Niles

June 19, 1865

Ansd. Lincoln could not Would write Wells for cadet in N. Academy if he desired