A. L. B. Wooduth to Catharine Yates

Chicago Jany 13th 1865 Friday Morning My very dear Mrs Yates I arrived home safely at half past ten o'clock the evening of the day I parted from your hospitable mansion, with the consciousness of having enjoyed one of the pleasantest visits of my life. As you are aware we had the pleasure of the Governor's company, the Judges and Mr. Babcocks to the [junction?]. The [Deacon?] ([Bacso?]) in whose charge the Governor kindly put Mrs. Forest and myself was entertaining and polite and though we were a little behind time we got along nicely. I fancied that you arrived in Jacksonville about the same time of our arrival in Chicago. I fear that you

after your laborious cares and anxieties attendant upon your change of home, are suffering from fatigue and over exertion. I hope that this is not the case, and that with your dear family, you may be at present in much better health than when I parted from you. I congratulate you upon your return to your own pleasant home in Jacksonville and to the bosom of those beloved friends who are as deservedly dear.

I find a noted French head dress maker here who resides on the north side. She is to have ready three or four head dresses tomorrow noon for me to select from for you. I think she will make something stylish and pretty. I shall arrange with her to take back. or alter it, if you should so desire. Instead of sending it by

express, I think I will send the box by Dr. Burroughs or some one who will be going directly to Springfield and Jacksonville. Mr. Wooduth is very anxious to accept you and the Governors polite invitation to be present and if it is among the possibilities to do so he will surely be present. I am very much hoping myself also to be with you, but I have fears that I may not be able. I shall surely be with you in heart.

My kindest love and regards to your dear mother and Sister to Katie and Henry and all friends with you, not forgetting a big hug and kiss to my darling Dickey.

I should have said in connection with head dresses, that it seems that pearl ornaments for them or the hair are not now considered stylish.

We are all well and all unite in love to you and your dear family. [illegible] [Evr affecty] A.L.B. Wooduth