E. B. Kirby to Richard Yates

S Louis 7 Jan 1865

Hon Richd Yates

Dr Sir, With many others of your friends I write to join in congratulating you upon your Election

In doing so I cant help remembering what I said in reply to your letter written after your first defeat by Harris for Congress, your desire to quit Politics and the law and engage in business was the feeling expressed by you at the time. You will remember I told you in reply, that from habit education and talent your services would be required in other ways - (How would you like to engage in some trading opperation?)

You have found it so and while I have been so situated as not to be able to render much personal service in your advancement nevertheless I have felt and noticed its progress with the same interest as though I had been a personal participant in the fights. Accept my best wishes and prayers that

your life may long be spared to enjoy the honors so worthily bestowed upon your head by the good People of Illinois

Happy New Year to All

Truly Your friend

E B Kirby

Kirby E B

St. Louis Jan 7/65

Congraulatory