Hertford N.C.
April 3d 1918
Gov. T. W. Bickett
Raleigh N.C.
My dear Governor:
Your letter came this A. M. and I am writing to say that if my name has to be disclosed I’d rather you would drop the matter for I hate notoriety and the public is already suspicious. My daughter is home and was going to write to you this A. M. but after I got your letter she saw no need of writing herself. I never would have asked this of you but remembered you said you would keep all names a secret and that you published that letter for all wives who’s husbands were slackers. He was in the first draft last summer, but by paying heavy lawyers and doctors fees, then by saying his nephew was dependant on him, he was exempted. He and his nephew own two farms and he rents them on halfs, but does not attend to them, as he should. This will be very embarrassing for me, for his friends know nothing of the trouble and I thought this would be the thing to do and would possibly make a man of him in every respect. I am hoping that they can yet live happily to-gether, but his iron will will have to be broken. If you have to use a name just say “a friend” but do not use my name in this matter. I am heart broken over the whole affair and want to do the best thing for all concerned. I know so many young men who were rough before entering the war, and now they are so changed & possibly this may be another case. Trusting you will do as I am requesting
I am
Yours truly