J. W. Singleton to Richard Yates

Strictly Private and Confidential

Washington City DC

Januy 7th 1865

My Dear Governir

The telegraph has just announced your triumphat Election---and a friend congratulates you

I should have been on hand to give you my feeble aid had I not assumed through a letter from Mr Hatch that your Election was beyond a contingency

I leave Washington in a few hours to be absent for an indefinite period My destination I am not at liberty now to disclose. And I trust if your surmises should [back?] you in the right direction---you need no assurance that I will not bring discredit on myself or reproach on those who honor me with their confidence. I shall in Every kind thought and act be guided by that affection which I cherish a like for my native and adopted state

Allow me to ask a continuances of these kind relations I have so long Enjoyed---and and hope to merit

And I beg you in making my kind regards to your good wife. you ask for me and the cause in which I am Embarked her Earnest prayers

With the assurance of my best wishes for your future happiness and Success

I have the honor to be your friend

Singleton

Genl. J. W. Singleton

Washington Jany 7th 1865

Private & Confidential

Is Embarking on an Enterprise which he cannot disclose