J. J. Richards to Richard Yates

Chicago Decr 3rd /64

Hon Richard Yates

Governor,

Dear Sir,

I recd an answer to your letter to Comr Lewis---& after acknowledging the recpt---says---

"It would afford me much pleasure to furnish you the statement desired, but I regret to be obliged to say that the returns made to this office, furnish neither the number or Capacity of the distilleries, and we have no data from which any estimate of either can be made."

Now what do you think of the head & center of the Internal revenue department---who had no data of the number or capacity of that department of manufacturers---from which the Govt expects, to derive the largest portion of revnue does it not show that the interests of Govt under such a head---are & will be subject to great losses from swindling, by & through false returns---& no returns at all? Such a man should not retain his position a day after Congress meets---for he not only causes the Govt to loose largely from reasons above. but Each & evry

State must become loosers---to a greater or less Extent---from the lack of information & of ability to use information subject to his call, for the benefit of Govt. The less the the Genl Govt collects, of revinue desired from the privelege given to the Distiller of Whiskey, the more will have to be collected by direct taxation on the labor of the Country---for all will acknowledge that in what ever way the direct tax is laid---that the most of it finaly comes from labor.

Washburn was here this week & much to my surprise--- I understand he anounces himself as candidate for, of right your place. I trust he may be disaponted---& that you may not. I understand from Democrats---that they intend forming any combination they can---in order to defeat you---prehaps Logan may trouble you with my best wishes for your success.

I am, Yours truly

on call

J. J. Richards

Hon Richards J. J.

Chicago Dec 3d/1864

Has received an answer to the letter you wrote Commdr Lewis, which states that he has no data from which to furnish the information asked. What do you think of such a report from one occupying such a position? Should he not be removed as soon as Congress meets? Thinks he will do the Gov't, more harm than good.

Washburn was there recently & has declared himself, a candidate.

Democrats have said they would go into any combination against you. Hopes for your success.

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