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[seal]

Executive Department Ala,
Montgomery Jany, 22^d, 1864

His Excellency
C Clark
Gov. of Miss.

Sir

It is needless for me to say to you that in the successful defense of Mobile, Mississippi is deeply interested.

The Confederate Authorities at Mobile have been from time to time impressing Negroes in this State to complete the fortifications there, but I am advised by Gen^l Maury that they are still far from being complete and he fears they are in=adequate to defend the City and its approaches.

I am advised by Telegraph and letter that all the indications threaten an attack verry soon on Mobile, and I am urged by Gen^l. Maury to hasten the sending of Negroes to the City, I am aiding the Confederate Authorities to the extent of my ability and shall continue to do so, Now can you not aid them also by Sending Negroes from Counties lying immediately on the line of the Mobile & Ohio Rail Road, I trust it may be in your power to give prompt aid I am Sure your earnest patriotism will prompt you to do whatever is in your power.