Letter from James Downs to Mississippi Governor Benjamin G. Humphreys; September 4, 1866

[Seal]

Fort Adams Miss Sept. 4_th 1866

His Excellency Gov. B. G. Humphries } Jackson } Miss. }

Dear Sir;

Hoping you will consider it no importunity I write you soliciting your in-fluence in securing my appointment as government agent for weighing and assessing the cotton of Wilkinson County or so much there of as is shipped from the Port of Fort Adams and subject to the tax of three cents per pound.

The only recommendation I have to offer you is that I was a member of Co D. 21_st Miss Regt. and lost a leg under your leadership at Marye's heights on 3rd May 1863, and by a rigid imprisonment of nineteen months had my health and eyesight seriously impaired.

Have no means of support except my own exertions (and they are but indifferently rewarded because of the preference shown in this section of my native county to men who took no part in the late war.

Hoping this may reach you soon and merit a favorable consideration and speedy reply

I subscribe myself you obt servt

James T Downs

Sept. 1866

Fort Adams, Miss. Sept. 4_th 1866

Downs, Ja_s. T.

Letter of -

Representing his helpless condition and asking assistance in procuring the appointment of Govt Agent for weighing and assessing cotton shipped from Fort Adams.