Letter from J. W. Westscott; October 23, 1865

Memphis Oct 23 65

Hon Secy of State

[?] -

Some months ago I enclosed to you an application (endorsed by one U.S. Dist. Atty and one of our Judges for office of [C?] of Deeds &c for Mississippi at this place. I also stated that I was U.S. [Cant.?] and had Commissions from most of the States East & South.

I hope the application was not [miscarried?], or if received that the [adornments?] are sufficient.

Since I sent to you I have recd. commissions from La - Va - North Carolina - Missouri and several northern states. Will you please attend to this matter at once and inform me if

any thing more is needed.

I will [enclose?] to you the requisite fees, when I hear from you.

As to loyalty, if [made?] a question, I think the fact of my never having in any way been engaged in the rebellion, holding an office under the U.S. which requires the same oath to be made which is required of Members of Congress and the Commissions recd. from other southern states are sufficient.

Yours [R?] &c J. W. Westcott Box 847

J.W Wescott Memphis Tenn

Applying to be appointed [?] of Deeds & for Missi

Respectfully referred to Gov. Humphreys

Mr W. has not been appointed by Gov. Sharkey

C. A. Brougher Secy of State

Gov Declined to [appear?] Oct 27 1865

Commissioned Nov 23 1865