John R. Woods to Richard Yates

GENERAL HEAD-QUARTERS, STATE OF ILLINOIS ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE SANITARY DEPARTMENT.

Springfield, Feby. 5 1864

Gov Yates

Dear Sir

I return to you the letter which your Excellency sent me in relation to the appointment of Mr. (Swan?), together with "Commission" and "instructions" You will also please find herewith the letter of Mr. Fithian.

An intense headache presents me from imposing upon you the trouble of reading a somewhat elaborate train of thought, which the letter of Dr Fithian and your letter to me, respecting McCoy, has started in my mind.

The Dr letter is characteristic. I think Mr McCoy is impulsive, excitable, but a generuos, kind hearted man, one that would divide his boots and share his last loaf with a poor soldier. zi had never seen him previous to Wednesday last.

I thank you for your kind invitation, and trust I shall be in a better plight tomorrow. please destroy this and oblige.

Your friend and servant John R Woods Rec Secy