Please be advised that I applied to the Clerk of the Superior Court for this County to be officially qualified as Notary Public, to day. But he declined to administer the oath upon the grounds that this enclosed instrument was not properly drawn.

This criticusm I conceive is indeed a reflection upon his Execellency and the private Secretary. My knowledge of the law teaches that any instrument signed by the Executive of a state or United States is unquestionable. And to dishonor the orders of such executive is drifting toward a crime. But candidly speaking I think the hitch came because I happen to be a Colored man. I presume the gentlemen knows that our State, North Carolina, and His Execellancy, Governor Bickett, knows no color where character, and ability is in evidence.

Now I hope you will look into this matter seriously; as my endorsment demands that I have a fair consideration beyound discrimination.