John R. Woods to Richard Yates

Illinois State Sanitary Commission Claim Department Springfield, May 12 1865

Hon Richard Yates U.S. Senator Jacksonville Ills.

Dir Sir

If others had said nothing about it, your omission to name me in your message to the Legislature would never have disturbed the even flow of my spirits, not in the least. Had I availed myself of the opportunities you gave me I probably might have figured therein as conspicuously, as did the small sould man who seems to have disgusted everybody with his unparalleled toadyism, and who will be your friend only so long as you can be of service to him.

But, God forbid that I should let myself down to the little work of insinuation; If I was a younger man, and could take pleasure in crushing and blasting reputations and standing upon the ruins I had made a few strokes of my pen would annihilate him effectually.

I thank you sincerely for you letter, but hope now that you will let all I have done or may yet do, slumber in obscurity. It will be worth just as much to the brave men in whose behalf I have labored, if I am never heard of.

I work for God and humanity - not notoriety. My reward will yet be paid me.

Most faithfully yours John R. Woods

Col John R. Woods