EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA

ADJUTANT GENERAL’S OFFICE

INDIANAPOLIS Nov. 21 1865

My Dear Wilder:

I have had a “longing” to hear from you for a long time, but have only been able to hear that you were “rushing things” on the “highest ridges” and “deepest ravines” of the Cumberland Mts. What have you been doing I don’t know but I hope you have been doing well. At all events, I should like to know, for I have had a sort of presentiment, for a long time that I would be associated with you some time or another in business. The Cinc Commercial, of to-day, contains a “special” dispatch from Knoxville giving the particulars of a meeting of the citizens of that city with reference to opening up the country by a new R. R., with the additional information that General John S. Wilder had been duly accredited a Financial Agent to interest capitalists in the “great North West” in the enterprise. I cannot doubt, you and the Wilder alluded to.

Now, a the dispatch says you are coming home I hope you will find time to come to Indianapolis, so I can see you and talk matters over.

I am satisfied there is “some good” in store for me somewhere. T4y position here is pleasant and honorable, but nor profitable. Govenor (sic) Morton has gone abroad for his health, and although I have a wide field of usefulness (to the public) before me and can hold my place, I do not desire

to do so longer than will be required to complete the Reports of the office. Justice to my family and duty to myself require that I should pay some little attention to personal matters. The war is over and all chances for making money legitimately, on that “score” have passed. So I shall look to business in the future. Please drop me a line when you get home & if possible come up so that I may talk with you. I am very busy and can write no more.

Your Friend, W.H.H. Terrell